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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown Berkeley

American food

Sometimes you just want a straightforward, familiar meal that hits the spot every time.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Southside Station image 1
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Sandwich shop

Small shop offers house-made buns and crispy fried chicken that define its American menu. Limited seating and a sliding window create a relaxed atmosphere. Freshness comes from a single cook, so expect a made-to-order wait.

Crispy fried chicken shines with a fresh flare that makes the sandwich stand out. Wings bring a spicy kick, and combos include curly fries that match well with the hearty portions.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the fried chicken sandwich, is incredibly juicy and crispy."

"The spicy basil pork Thai food here is amazing and spicy."

"I found the fried egg with the spicy pork rice delicious."

Good to know

1

Customers order at a sliding window and receive a beeper for food pickup.

2

Waiting for food can take a while due to a single cook preparing everything.

3

There is indoor seating available for customers.

02
Original Pollo image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot serves juicy burgers with crispy fries and classic Mexican dishes like grilled chicken. Large portions suit budget-conscious diners. Quiet, homey vibe near transit makes it great for early risers.

Burgers come with perfectly cooked bacon and juicy patties. The cheeseburger pairs well with crispy fries and offers a delicious taste overall.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and delicious."

"The breakfast here is super nice, the owner's so friendly."

"The American Food cheeseburger here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Original Pollo offers breakfast all day, catering to early risers and late brunchers.

2

The restaurant is conveniently located near the Downtown Berkeley BART station.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals typically ranging from $14 to $16.

03
iniBurger - Gourmet Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Bright seating and relaxed energy make dining here inviting. Menu shines with juicy burgers and Nashville Hot chicken for American food lovers. Wide choices include halal-certified and plant-based options, catering to diverse tastes.

Burgers and fried chicken stand out with juicy, spicy flavors like the Nashville Hot chicken sandwich. The menu stays simple but offers variety with chicken wings, tenders, and loaded fries.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were really good and worth the money."

"The American Food here, especially the chicken, is juicy and flavorful."

"You have to try the burgers here; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Everything on the menu is 100% halal.

2

The restaurant is very clean and maintains high hygiene standards.

3

There is a wide variety of choices, including plant-based patties.

04
Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen image 1

Louisiana-themed decor and New Orleans artifacts create an authentic vibe. Fried chicken is moist and tasty, paired with Southern staples like grits and hush puppies. Live jazz and zydeco music add to the laid-back atmosphere, while outdoor seating makes it family-friendly.

Fried chicken comes out moist and tasty, often described as divine. The menu features Fried catfish, grits, and hush puppies that deliver Southern comfort with filling portions.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the fried chicken, is amazing and moist."

"I would come back just for the heavenly jambalaya."

"The service here is always top notch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times during brunch hours on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging; allow extra time to find a spot.

05
Cornerstone Craft Beer & Live Music image 1

Cozy concert hall shines with intimate stage and crisp sound. American staples like pulled pork and chicken pot pie satisfy hearty appetites. Spacious patio with heated garden seating invites relaxed chats and drinks.

Burgers, fries, and pulled pork stand out as solid American staples here. The chicken club sandwich and chicken pot pie offer tasty twists, while the nachos add a super great snack option.

People are saying

"I loved the great beer selection here."

"It's a cool spot to chill and people watch."

"You have to try the chicken pot pie; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

The concert starts at 9:30 PM, 1.5 hours later than scheduled.

2

Latin dance night ends early, so check the schedule in advance.

3

Standing-only is the norm for shows, but special seating can be arranged if requested.

06
Calโ€™s Fried Chicken and Burgers image 1

Known for top-tier burgers and high-quality fried chicken, this American spot offers crisp fried chicken sandwiches and loaded fries. Seating is cramped with simple decor and murals. Atmosphere shifts from quiet to bustling during peak hours.

Fried chicken stands out with a good crunch and high quality, featured in both sandwiches and salads. Loaded fries, especially the chopped cheese version, and mac and cheese offer solid, flavorful sides.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best burgers in Berkeley."

"The American Food portions, especially the chicken tenders, are huge."

"The milkshakes here are out of this world delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, but it's worth it.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

3

Chopped Cheese Fries are best shared with a burger.

07
Study Hall Rooftop Lounge image 1

Rooftop bar shines with spectacular city views and a lively vibe from live music and a DJ. American food features a smash burger and fried chicken sandwich with rich flavors. Outdoor patio and fire pits make it great for groups and dog-friendly visits.

Smash burger and fried chicken sandwich stand out with rich flavors. The grilled cheese pairs well with tomato soup, and the nachos offer a tasty snack option.

People are saying

"The elevated views of the city and bay are spectacular."

"Angel made us some of the best drinks and provided a great experience."

"The American Food here has excellent views."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the lounge's popularity.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:50 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect to pay around $70-$80 for two people with drinks and appetizers.

08
Tipsea image 1

Ocean-themed decor creates a chill cocktail lounge vibe with Bay Area music at a comfortable volume. Classic bacon cheeseburgers come with a masala sauce twist and are served with fries. Relaxed crowd enjoys creative cocktails in booths and at the bar.

Classic bacon cheeseburgers come with a twist, featuring masala sauce. Meals include fries, and hamburgers look very appealing.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are so creative and unique."

"Happy Hour's bartender Hayley is so warm and accommodating."

"Hayley's warm welcome made the American Food experience great."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs daily from 2 pm to 5 pm with discounted drinks.

2

Dollar wing night offers great deals on wings, popular among patrons.

3

Tipsea serves food late into the night, perfect for night owls.

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Downtown Berkeley, Berkeley

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