Casual lunch spot with small cafe tables for people-watching and a simple setting. Atmosphere feels inviting with good vibes and a sense of care for staff. Known for fresh, sophisticated falafel and seasonal menus featuring top-quality ingredients.
Lentil soup stands out with its rich, healthy flavor and pairs well with sandwiches. Options include a red lentil soup and a lentil and kale soup with yogurt, both tasty and satisfying.
Lunch offers very fresh and delicious dishes that make it a perfect spot to return to.
"This is the best lunch spot in Berkeley."
"You have to try the tahini chocolate chip cookie; it's the best I've ever had."
"The lentil and kale soup with yogurt was very tasty."
Good to know
FAVA is open for lunch only, operating just 4 hours a day.
Seating is limited with only a few curbside tables available.
The menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Small, cozy Thai restaurant with an intimate atmosphere and upscale vibe. Welcoming space suits friends, dates, or solo dining with a family-friendly feel. Known for unique dishes alongside staples, offering a pleasant, comfortable experience.
Soups here feature in-house made wontons with herbal flavors and a rich Tom kha broth. The duck noodle soup stands out for its depth, while the lobster ravioli soup offers a unique twist.
Lunch combos cost about $20 and include a starter, main dish, drink, and salad. Portions are generous and the food, like the Spicy Eggplant with Tofu and pad se ew, tastes solid and satisfying.
Good to know
The lunch special includes an appetizer, main dish, drink, and salad for $20.
Expect reasonable prices with lunch portions offering great value.
Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available during lunch hours.
Chinese restaurant offers wide vegetarian and vegan options with large portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere is laid back and family-run, featuring a clean and relaxed setting suitable for families. Takeout is reliable and the menu includes standout dishes like hot and sour soup and onion pancakes.
Hot and sour soup offers a warm, flavorful experience with each spoonful. It often comes with lunch specials that include a spring roll and a large vegetarian plate for $15.
Lunch specials cost $15 and include hot and sour soup, a spring roll, and a large plate of vegetarian food. Hot and sour soup usually comes with lunch orders.
Good to know
They offer a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
All vegetarian dishes can be made vegan upon request.
Prices are very fair for the portion sizes.
Large dining room offers a bright, airy atmosphere with a quiet vibe that suits relaxed meals. Generous portions and family-style dishes attract a steady local crowd, especially on weekends. Outdoor seating adds a casual option next to the sidewalk.
Hot and sour soup stands out with a strong, balanced flavor. Wonton soup also appears as a notable option alongside other dishes like broccoli chicken.
Lunch offers huge portions and delicious food. Meals satisfy with generous servings and strong flavors.
Good to know
King Yen offers generous portion sizes, ideal for sharing or leftovers.
Takeout service is reliable and food is cooked on-site.
Diners may find the prices a bit steep, averaging around $20 per dish.
Small, comfortable space with friendly atmosphere and cool vibe. Open kitchen adds transparency while double-walled dishes keep food hot. Music repeats, creating a slightly loud but inviting environment.
Vegetable soup features a clear, lovely broth with fresh vegetables. Momo soup offers dumplings in curry, while ramen has a thicker, sweet and sour style broth. Noodle soups vary from sweet and savory to a more basic hot and sour flavor.
Lunch offers a student BOGO free special that draws a steady crowd. The spot serves as a reliable choice for a quick, satisfying break with family or solo.
Good to know
Himalayan Bite serves free rice with curry orders.
A student BOGO free lunch special is available.
They serve halal meat options.
Small dining space with dimmed lighting and light music creates a cozy, buzzy atmosphere. Tables sit close together in a beautifully designed interior featuring thoughtful Japanese aesthetics. The place fills quickly, making reservations advisable for a lively, intimate experience.
Miso soup comes with many dishes and is well made with a heavenly flavor. Staff quickly replace it if spilled and help clean up.
Lunch features quick service and a tuna and tempura shrimp roll that stands out. The spot closes after lunch to prep for dinner.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.
Expect high prices for sushi, with some rolls costing around $20.
The restaurant emphasizes sustainability by using minimal plastic.
Small, cozy cafe with Thailand-inspired artwork and fresh flowers on tables creates a welcoming, authentic vibe. Atmosphere feels like eating in someone's home, with a lowkey, vibrant spirit and friendly environment. Space is simple and informal, making the most of limited indoor seating.
Warm, light, and sweet coconut soup called Bua loi features fresh coconut pieces and tapioca. The menu also includes a Thai Pork Dry Noodle Soup and the classic Tom Yum Soup.
Offers quick lunch options suitable for workday breaks and relaxing weekends. Serves meals, snacks, and desserts that make it a solid choice for midday dining.
Good to know
You must order from the app or on the screen.
The restaurant does not accept cash payments.
All dishes and utensils are compostable.
Vietnamese restaurant with a quiet, pleasant dining room and a menu blending authentic Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. Offers large portions with reasonable prices and includes vegetarian options. The atmosphere feels calm, with a focus on Szechuan flavors alongside traditional pho.
Soups come loaded with lots of shrimp, shredded pork, and chicken. Pho varieties stand out with excellent flavor and the Teo Chew noodle soup has a strong garlic flavor.
Affordable lunch specials include dishes like kung pao chicken. The menu features a variety of options for a quick midday meal.
Good to know
Pho Le offers affordable lunch specials that are popular among locals.
The portions are large, often providing leftovers for later.
The menu features a few rarely seen recipes like the beef tripe appetizer.
Small restaurant offers a cozy, charming atmosphere with garden patio seating surrounded by a quiet rose garden. The vibe is calm and inviting, blending German influences with local ingredients. Guests find it a warm haven amid a busy urban area, ideal for relaxed breakfast and lunch.
Soups feature fresh, flavorful ingredients with options like bean and sausage and rosemary and cannellini bean varieties. They pair well with light dishes such as egg potato muffins and smoked salmon.
Lunch offers a seasonal salad and a quiet spot to enjoy coffee and dessert. The atmosphere feels welcoming and relaxed, good for a break with a book.
Good to know
Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.
The menu features German-inspired dishes made with local California ingredients.
Expect generous portions, especially for the sandwiches and desserts.
Casual Vietnamese restaurant with a focus on quick service and classic dishes like pho and banh mi. Atmosphere suits college crowds, offering affordable prices and vegetarian options. Food features well-marinated meats and crusty bread, with a clean, well-maintained setting.
Soup features a delicious flavor with a touch of lemon added for brightness. It suits cold days well and offers a comforting option even for those not usually eating pho.
Quick, filling lunches come with the tofu bahn mi priced at $7.25. Service stays excellent, making it a solid spot to bring friends or coworkers for lunch.
Good to know
The restaurant offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including pho and banh mi.
Vegetarian options are available, which is uncommon for Vietnamese restaurants.
Prices are reasonable, with many dishes under $10.
Indian and Nepalese restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a quiet, pleasant environment. The space feels comfortable and well-maintained, creating a relaxing vibe. It stands out for authentic flavors and exceptional naan that many consider the best.
Lentil soup here has rich flavor and a delicious taste that stands out. It comes with lunch specials alongside fluffy naan and rice, sometimes served cold.
Special lunch menu offers great value with options like the chicken curry lunch special. Lunch specials include lentil soup, fluffy naan, rice, and salad.
Good to know
Lunch specials include white or brown rice, lentil soup, and fluffy naan.
Expect small portions compared to other Indian restaurants.
Parking is available on Marin Ave, about a 7-10 minute walk.
Small, cozy Mediterranean restaurant with sunny storefront and comfortable seating creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels homey and relaxed, enhanced by friendly hospitality and pleasant background music. Known for authentic, fresh flavors and generous complimentary items like tea.
Creamy lentil soup stands out with a rich texture and well-balanced flavor. Some prefer it blended for a smoother consistency.
Offers Mediterranean dishes that provide great nutrients for a busy day. Serves quick, casual meals with good value for money.
Good to know
The restaurant offers complimentary tea at the end of the meal.
Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food.
Portion sizes are large, comparable to typical American servings.
Elegant space blends modern design with Thai cultural elements in a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Ambient lighting and sound-absorbing panels create a cozy yet stylish dining experience. Outdoor patio and private event areas offer beautiful, calm settings for meals.
Tom yum soup stands out with its bold flavors. Soups served with lunch offer a satisfying, comforting touch.
Attentive service creates a fun atmosphere for lunch meetings. The spot suits casual lunches, corporate functions, and family meals with options like a lunch special.
Good to know
Street parking is easy and free near the restaurant.
Prices are reasonable considering the quality of the food.
Happy hour features discounted appetizers and drinks.
Food truck with outdoor seating under trees creates a relaxed and welcoming setting with soothing jazz music playing softly. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly, like dining in a peaceful, quiet home. Tables and chairs are set up nicely, inviting leisurely meals without rush.
A hot bowl of vegetable soup arrives right when you approach the food truck. The chef offers warm soup before ordering and sometimes gives it for free along with bottled water.
Lunch features bowls of soup served as 'Medicine' before ordering, highlighting a focus on health. Wait times can be long and frustrating during lunch hours.
Good to know
Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.
The average meal price is around $15, offering good value.
Two out of six menu items may not be available at times.
Dining room blends traditional and modern Sichuan decor with a cozy, warm atmosphere that feels like being in China. The space fills with lively energy from a busy crowd enjoying authentic Sichuan cuisine prepared by Sichuanese cooks.
Soups here come very hot and flavorful with options like beef noodle and lamb soup that are tender and rich. The fatty intestine rice noodle soup tastes authentic and pairs well with guokui, while the tofu veggie soup offers a lighter choice.
Boxed lunches offer authentic Sichuan cuisine with any three dishes for 13.9 yuan. The lunch specials deliver great value and maintain fantastic taste consistently.
Good to know
Parking is available for free during events.
The restaurant offers fast-food-style Chinese meals in boxed lunches costing around $11-14.
Portions are generous, providing excellent value for money.
Sandwich shop offers spacious seating with cozy patio and large picture windows overlooking the street. Atmosphere carries a warm Californian energy with great music and comfortable temperature control. Connected bar and outdoor patio create a lively spot for casual dining and drinks.
Soups come in large portions and pair well with sandwiches or salads for a good deal. Options like the Sausage Lentil Soup offer fresh, flavorful tastes that complement the meal.
Wide selection of fresh food includes sandwiches, salads, and soups. Lunch portions come large and affordable, all served with fast service during rush hours.
Good to know
Parking garage on Durant offers the first hour free, just a block away.
Expect long lines during lunch; arrive before 11:30 AM to avoid waits.
Mezzo offers large portions for under $16, including sandwiches and salads.
Cafeteria-style seating with a self-service condiment island creates a casual, efficient dining experience. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, though sometimes loud and spacious. Many enjoy the customizable toppings bar and authentic udon made from imported Japanese wheat.
Soups feature a fragrant broth with a solid base that tastes authentic. Options include curry Nikutama and clear soup versions, both paired with soft noodles and tender meat.
Close proximity to work makes it a popular choice for a quick lunch. Expect a fast service but be ready for a line during peak hours.
Good to know
Customers need to pay before sitting down, which allows everyone to pay separately.
The place has wheelchair access and is easy to maneuver inside for those with mobility difficulties.
Parking can be difficult because it's mostly street parking nearby.
Large, airy space with bright lighting and sophisticated decor creates a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. Crowds gather eagerly, especially for authentic Hunan cuisine served cafeteria-style. The environment feels clean and elegant, making it suitable for big group dinners.
Soups feature fresh fish and a spicy bone broth with simmered flavors. Options include a shrimp and pork dumpling soup with seaweed broth, wonton soup, and a coconut chicken soup with tender chicken.
Lunch includes dishes like savory egg cutlet with gravy and braised pork ribs with green-headed mushrooms. Portions come on the smaller side, often needing more than one dish to fill up.
Good to know
There are parking spaces available in front of the restaurant.
The dishes are reasonably priced, making it a budget-friendly option.
Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.
Bright and clean space offers a self-serve sauce table with fresh options and vegetarian soups. Atmosphere feels comfortable and fun, suitable for casual meals and study sessions. Food features rich, spicy broths and well-prepared proteins, creating a satisfying experience.
Tomato soup stands out with its rich flavor, while the bone soup offers a deep, savory taste. A wide selection of soup bases lets you customize your meal with various noodles and vegetables.
Clean environment creates a comfortable spot for lunch and study. Meals often cost well under $15, fitting smaller appetites with affordable portions and a quiet atmosphere.
Good to know
The restaurant is self-serve, allowing you to customize your meal.
Prices are based on weight, so be mindful of your selections.
There are several vegetarian and vegan options available.
Cozy space with roomy seating and a quiet, cheerful ambiance suits conversations and casual gatherings. Big screen basketball games add a relaxed vibe without overwhelming the atmosphere. The spot draws a steady local crowd and rarely feels crowded.
Noodle soups stand out with Tom Yum and Kaopoon offering rich flavors of coconut milk and lemongrass. The spice level stays mild, making the soups flavorful but not hot.
Generous portions marked the lunch specials, with dishes like the salmon curry standing out. Lunch specials no longer exist, and price increases affect the value for midday meals.
Good to know
Reservations are not needed as the place is rarely crowded.
Prices have increased significantly after the recent menu update.
Lunch specials are no longer offered, making lunch less of a bargain.
Japanese restaurant offers a cozy and spacious interior with a casual yet luxurious atmosphere suited for groups and casual dates. The menu is huge with many choices, featuring fresh and authentic sushi praised for quality and generous portions. Free miso soup and orange slices accompany meals, adding a simple but thoughtful touch.
Complimentary miso soup comes with every meal, served before ordering. Meals also include a cold orange dessert at the end.
Quick meals fit well here with a simple ambience that suits lunch. Flies from outside can make finishing the meal challenging.
Good to know
Parking is available directly in front of the restaurant.
The restaurant offers free miso soup with each meal.
Expect a busy atmosphere on Wednesday evenings.