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Best of Berkeley

Tea and sandwich spots

A simple sandwich paired with a hot cup of tea is the classic remedy for a busy day.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Roast & Toast Cafe image 1
Roast & Toast Cafe image 2
Roast & Toast Cafe image 3
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Cafe offers airy, open space with plenty of natural light and both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, suitable for working alone or socializing. Arabic pop music plays quietly, enhancing the Arabian-inspired vibe.

Menu offers a wide range of teas including unique options like rose cardamom refresher and ice black tea. Chai Latte stands out as a notable choice among the tea selections.

Large sandwiches feature high-quality meat, especially the pastrami. Portions come at reasonable prices and often serve as two meals.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be top level."

"The Arabic stretchy ice cream is amazing and worth every time."

"I found the chai latte to be the best, so rich and creamy."

Good to know

1

Booza is a unique offering not found in most cafes in the area.

2

Prices for ice cream are $6 for one scoop, $12 for two scoops, and $18 for three scoops.

3

Wi-Fi is free for customers, with details on the receipt.

02
Belmo Café image 1

Small bakery with outdoor sidewalk seating and a Franco-Algerian vibe creates a relaxing, unrushed atmosphere like a European or Middle Eastern vacation. Lively community energy fills the space, making it feel like a family home. Colorful lights and authentic pastries add to the charm.

Moroccan Mint tea stands out with its fresh, aromatic flavor. Tea pairs well with decadent chocolate cake and stuffed bread, offering a satisfying balance.

Liver sandwich stands out with perfect seasoning and tender texture. Spicy meat sandwiches use fresh meat and offer adjustable spice levels. Algerian and merguez sandwiches bring hearty, flavorful options.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, authentic French and Algerian pastries."

"I found the liver sandwich to be an unexpected masterpiece."

"Their French and Algerian pastries are a delicious buttery delight."

Good to know

1

Belmo Café is open until midnight, making it a late-night option.

2

Seating outside is limited, so arrive early for outdoor dining.

3

The café offers a variety of gluten-free options, but ask for details.

03
FAVA image 1
Lunch restaurant

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.

Ginger tea offers a warm, spicy flavor while the cold almond milk chai latte provides a refreshing, creamy option. Some chai preparations show inconsistency in quality and may not match the price point.

Falafel sandwiches come with herby, fresh ingredients on homemade flatbread or pita wraps. The spicy chicken sandwich delivers real heat and flavor, while the braised lamb sandwich features tender meat with yogurt and fresh herbs in a lavash-like wrap.

People are saying

"This is the best lunch spot in Berkeley."

"I found the falafel sandwich to be excellent and fresh."

"The almond milk chai latte is the best antidote to a hot day."

Good to know

1

FAVA is open for lunch only, operating just 4 hours a day.

2

Seating is limited with only a few curbside tables available.

3

The menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients.

04
Royal Ground Coffee image 1

Cozy cafe with spacious seating and big picture windows offers a calm, quiet atmosphere ideal for reading or working. Eclectic mix of locals and students creates a friendly, unpretentious vibe. Reliable wifi and power outlets support study and work needs.

Offers a nice spot to drink tea and read. Serves custom-made sandwiches and a dessert selection alongside tea.

Breakfast sandwiches feature egg, bacon, and cheese with a variety of breads like bagels and ciabatta. The club sandwich stands out with its ciabatta bread and rich fillings including avocado and tomato.

People are saying

"It's a great work-friendly spot with plenty of space and outlets."

"The owners here are so lovely and friendly."

"I enjoyed drinking tea here."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes early at 4 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There is plenty of seating available, making it a good study spot.

3

WiFi is available for those looking to work or study.

05
Ashby Super Market image 1

Small family-run market offers wide variety from fresh produce to household supplies and Boar's Head sandwiches. Bright, clean space includes a boba tea kiosk with an extensive menu and affordable prices. Friendly atmosphere suits local shoppers seeking convenience and quality.

A big boba tea menu offers mango green tea and strawberry smoothie boba that taste fresh and not artificial. Ordering happens through a touch screen kiosk.

Sandwiches come with excellent flavor and freshness at a low price, often under $15 with chips and a drink. Staff take time to make perfect turkey sandwiches and satisfying veggie options, all at a really cheap price.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were amazing and a great deal."

"The boba tea here is so refreshing, and the pearls are super soft."

"The staff at this Market are some of the loveliest people."

Good to know

1

They offer a variety of products from produce to household supplies.

2

Sandwiches and boba are available, with prices under $15 for a meal.

3

They do not sell alcohol or pork products.

06
Super Super Pho image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant with a covered patio, string lights, and space heaters creates a casual, laid-back dining atmosphere. Indoor seating is simple with plastic chairs and heating lamps, while the patio offers a warmer, inviting vibe. The place attracts mostly younger people and students, maintaining a low-key, great vibe throughout.

Complimentary hot tea is available with meals. A free tea station offers easy access to tea throughout the visit.

Banh Mi sandwiches cost around $10 and come in a nice size that fills you up. The pork sandwich stands out as a good value and the sandwiches overall are delicious and well made.

People are saying

"I thought the Vietnamese food, especially the pho, was delicious."

"I found the banh mi sandwiches to be delicious."

"They offered complimentary hot tea with meals."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers large portion sizes for meals.

3

A $3 charge applies for extra vegetables.

07
Berkeley Espresso image 1

Small independent coffee shop blends calm music with intimate, chill vibes. Space offers comfy chairs and a mix of big and small tables for studying, working, or casual chats. Crowd includes students, artists, and freelancers, creating a genuine local atmosphere.

High quality tea shines in the lychee hibiscus and chai latte. Both offer rich, flavorful experiences that stand out.

Bagel sandwiches stand out with fresh ingredients and solid flavor. Sandwiches come well made and satisfying.

People are saying

"The coffee staff here is super friendly and nice."

"I thought the bagel sandwiches here were amazing."

"I thought the lychee hibiscus tea was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Berkeley Espresso is open until 8pm daily.

2

They offer free Wi-Fi and have power outlets available.

3

Prices for coffee and treats are reasonable compared to other cafes.

08
Berkeley Bowl West image 1

Supermarket offers narrow aisles that often feel crowded and chaotic, especially on weekends. It features an enormous bulk section, a large deli and hot food area, and a notable mushroom selection unmatched in the region. The atmosphere balances a farmer’s market aesthetic with a busy, energetic vibe.

A wide variety of bulk teas sits alongside organic dried goods and zero waste refills. The selection includes rare spices and nuts, with bins offering good deals.

Freshly made sandwiches come in a variety of styles, including vegan deli options and fruit sandwiches with large grapes. Pre-made sandwiches sit ready in a cold case alongside sushi, pizza, and soups.

People are saying

"I found it to be the best grocery store."

"I found the best gourmet cheeses and artisanal bread for my sandwich."

"You'll find a great selection of bulk teas and spices."

Good to know

1

Parking at Berkeley Bowl West can be difficult.

2

Expect to find unique items here that you can't find anywhere else locally.

3

The store is known for its extensive variety of fresh produce.

09
Gold Bean Cafe image 1

Cafe offers a clean, cute aesthetic with a super chill vibe and slow music suited for studying. Seating accommodates work with a relaxed atmosphere, though music volume varies. Menu features bagel sandwiches and drinks with lighter coffee flavors, appealing to those who prefer mild tastes.

Dirty chai comes hot or iced with a shot of espresso. Thai tea offers a relaxing option after a long walk. The chai here is strong and satisfying, not watered down.

Breakfast sandwiches feature ciabatta bread, bacon, egg, and spinach fillings, and pair well with coffee drinks. Bagel sandwiches like the Berkeley club and veggie options are tasty and well made.

People are saying

"I could actually taste the coffee in my drink."

"I loved the ciabatta sandwich with bacon, eggs, and spinach."

"I loved the dirty chai, hot or iced, it was perfect."

Good to know

1

Using Snackpass during happy hour provides a discount.

2

Expect high prices for food items, like a $17 chicken sandwich.

3

You can order ahead on Snackpass if you're in a rush.

10
Cafe Réveille image 1

Spacious cafe with large open windows and an open patio featuring bistro tables and umbrellas creates a bright, airy setting. Atmosphere feels relaxing and social, attracting a creative, youthful crowd without being overwhelming. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, especially for casual hangouts and brunch.

Iced tea stands out with its refreshing flavor. Dirty chai varies, sometimes rich and spicy, other times overpowering.

Breakfast sandwiches come with the works, offering a big and filling meal. They taste fresh and savory, often paired with shakshuka for extra flavor.

People are saying

"The Cafe's coffee is smooth, creamy, and consistently good."

"The breakfast sandwich with the works was fresh and tasty."

"It's a cute place, perfect for breakfast or brunch."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both inside and outside seating.

2

There was free parking available at Cafe Réveille.

3

They accept only credit cards for payment.

11
Caffè Strada image 1
Coffee shop

Outdoor seating dominates with shaded patios and semi-heated areas, creating a lively campus landmark vibe. The atmosphere blends an old-school European feel with a bustling, energetic crowd, especially on weekends. Free Wi-Fi and spacious layouts support both socializing and late-night studying.

Offers a variety of teas alongside coffee with a menu that includes chai lacking strong spice and heavy milk. The tea selection fits a vibrant campus-town vibe.

Offers a wonderful selection of egg and chicken pesto sandwiches. Sandwiches come with a side of salad and pair well with coffee.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here is lovely and lively, especially on a nice day."

"I found this tea spot to have a lively, vibrant atmosphere."

"I found the sandwiches here to be absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Caffè Strada is open until midnight, making it a late-night option.

2

Expect difficulty finding indoor seating during peak hours.

3

Free WiFi is available, making it a good spot for studying.

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