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Top picks in Downtown Berkeley

Sandwich spots

Made for those who believe a well-constructed sandwich is the only logical choice for a midday meal.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Original Pollo image 1
Original Pollo image 2
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Restaurant

Cozy spot with a homey vibe and large portions. Breakfast sandwiches are made exactly as requested and the chicken kabob sandwich adds great flavor. Quiet setting near transit suits early risers and budget diners.

Breakfast sandwiches come out made exactly as requested with consistent quality. The chicken kabob sandwich offers a solid alternative with good flavor.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved their breakfast sandwich and home fries."

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.

02
Binge Coffee House image 1

Cozy spot near campus serves Vietnamese coffee with a relaxed vibe perfect for work. Specialty sandwiches feature a crunchy condiment that adds great texture and flavor. Limited seating fills fast but keeps a friendly, modern feel.

Specialty combination sandwiches come with a crunchy condiment that adds amazing texture and flavor. They feel very fulfilling.

People are saying

"I loved the double matcha, it was bold and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the Vietnamese coffee with its creamy, salty foam."

"This vegan banh mi sandwich is so flavorful and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

2

Binge Coffee House specializes in Vietnamese coffee and matcha drinks.

3

It can get crowded, so plan your visit accordingly.

03
Anja’s image 1
Lunch restaurant

Cozy spot offers a quiet rose garden patio perfect for calm meals. Fish sandwiches like smoked salmon shine on homemade bread. German flavors blend with local ingredients creating a warm haven for breakfast and lunch.

Fish sandwiches stand out with options like rockfish and smoked salmon served open-faced. Sandwiches come on homemade bread and include choices like a golden brown, well-seasoned schnitzel.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating felt like a magical garden oasis."

"I loved the homemade bread on my sandwich."

"I found the house salad to be fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The menu features German-inspired dishes made with local California ingredients.

3

Expect generous portions, especially for the sandwiches and desserts.

04
Southside Station image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop offers house-made buns and crispy fried chicken sandwiches with fresh veggies. Limited seating and a sliding window create a relaxed atmosphere. Food is made fresh by one cook, so expect a longer wait but quality shines through.

Fried chicken sandwiches come with a crispy texture and a fresh flare that sets them apart. Options include a fried chicken banh mi style with veggies and a fried tofu sandwich on brioche with slaw and sauce.

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 thought the fried chicken sandwich was the best I ever had."

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.

05
Cholita Linda image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American spot offers a relaxed family-style vibe with cute decor and a clean, comfortable space. Papito sandwich shines with its savory filling and pairs well with sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal.

The Papito sandwich stands out with its filling size and savory taste. Sweet potato and yucca fries pair well, making the sandwiches enough for a medium meal shared with a side.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and light."

"The Papito sandwich is savory, sweet, and perfectly cooked."

"You have to try the vegetarian papito tofu with sweet plantains."

Good to know

1

Expect food to arrive within 10-15 minutes during non-peak hours.

2

Prices for sandwiches are very reasonable, typically around $15.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

06
Razan's Organic Kitchen traditional and classic shawarma. image 1

Small cafe with open kitchen and cozy upstairs seating offers a homey vibe. Falafel sandwich delivers rich flavor rivaling NYC spots. Organic ingredients and fresh wraps create a fresh-made experience perfect for relaxed meals.

Falafel sandwich stands out with rich flavor, rivaling those in NYC and California. Veggie sandwich offers a unique, flavorful experience. Half sandwich and soup combo suits cooler days well.

People are saying

"I found the falafel here to be the best I've ever had."

"These wraps are so fresh and flavorful, I loved them."

"I had the best falafel sandwich I’ve had in a long time."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers pickup and take-home options only, no dine-in service.

2

There are plenty of Halal options available on the menu.

3

Vegan options are clearly labeled on the menu.

07
E-Z Stop Deli image 1

Deli shines with homemade food served in a clean space that feels like old neighborhood spots. Sandwiches stand out, especially with scrambled egg on sourdough, offering both hot and cold options. Prices vary and EBT is accepted for hot meals.

Great sandwiches come with scrambled egg on sourdough and a mix of hot food and cold options. The sandwiches taste consistently delicious.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious sandwiches here."

"The food here reminds me of old neighborhood delis."

Good to know

1

E-Z Stop Deli offers affordable prices on meals and snacks.

2

They accept EBT for hot food purchases.

3

If they run out of Swahi fish, they can make a fresh batch while you wait.

08
Cafe Brusco image 1

Cozy cafe buzzes with loud music and cramped seating near pickup. Open-faced and bagel sandwiches shine with elaborate toppings like Ham & Fig, perfect for quick, fresh meals. Large window adds fresh air, balancing the lively, Italian-inspired vibe.

Open-faced sandwiches come with elaborate toppings, not just cream cheese. Bagel sandwiches offer a mix of sweet and savory combinations like Ham & Fig and Tangerine & Burrata. Options like The Bartavelle and Fancy Fresh are refreshing and not greasy, suitable for breakfast or lunch.

People are saying

"These bagels are beautiful and delicious."

"I was so surprised by how fresh the food tasted."

"I found the sandwiches here delicious and refreshing."

Good to know

1

The cafe is often busy, but the line moves quickly.

2

You can mix and match sandwiches to try different flavors.

3

The coffee and food are made with fresh ingredients.

09
Lox Stock & Bagel image 1

Bright, clean space offers cafeteria style service and a quiet atmosphere. Fresh, tasty bagels and giant croissants make sandwiches stand out. Affordable, healthy options attract locals and students for quick meals.

Giant croissants serve as the base for breakfast sandwiches. Bagel sandwiches include options like the Californian bagel with cream cheese, avocado, and sprouts on a sesame bagel.

People are saying

"I loved the lox bagels with avocado."

"The food here is good and the prices are fair."

"I loved the bagel sandwich with avocado and cream cheese."

Good to know

1

Lox Stock & Bagel is an affordable healthy food option in Downtown Berkeley.

2

The cafe can get busy with high school students during lunch time.

3

The restaurant is clean and family-friendly.

10
Café Rio image 1

Small family-run cafe serves fresh egg sandwiches and hearty pastrami with simple, satisfying flavors. Casual vibe with ice cream bars, sodas, and a few beers adds to the relaxed feel. Prices lean higher but match the quality and generous portions.

Egg sandwiches feature fresh ingredients and generous portions. Options include a BLT breakfast sandwich, a simple bacon egg sandwich, and a pastrami sandwich.

People are saying

"The owners here are so sweet and friendly with every sandwich."

"The coffee here is served by the sweetest, friendliest staff."

Good to know

1

The menu lists a cream cheese bagel for $5.9.

2

Café Rio offers snacks, ice cream bars, sodas, and a few beers.

3

Expect a total of $6.5 for a to-go order after tax.

11
Cornerstone Craft Beer & Live Music image 1

Cozy concert hall shines with intimate stage and crisp sound. Chicken sandwiches, especially the chicken club, bring comfort food vibes. Spacious patio with heated garden seating and fire pits offers a relaxed spot for food and drinks.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with a chicken club and a solid classic chicken sandwich. Tri-tip and pulled pork sandwiches offer comfort food vibes alongside burgers and fries.

People are saying

"I loved the great beer selection here."

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

"I thought the chicken sandwich was really good."

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.

12
Sandwich Zone image 1
Sandwich shop

Cozy, rustic decor sets a warm tone for relaxed meals. Sandwiches shine with fresh ingredients and generous portions like avocado and two cheeses. Prices stay under $10, making it an affordable choice with an authentic deli vibe.

Sandwiches offer fresh ingredients and creative combinations with generous portions. Prices stay under $10 for options like the veggie deluxe with avocado and sprouts, making it an affordable choice.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are a taste explosion with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Sandwich Zone offers a variety of affordable sandwiches with fresh ingredients.

2

Expect a casual atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with friends.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious diners.

13
Royal Ground Coffee image 1

Cozy cafe offers spacious seating and reliable wifi perfect for work or study. Breakfast sandwiches with ciabatta bread and rich fillings like avocado make a tasty meal. Friendly vibe with locals and students creates a calm, welcoming spot.

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."

"The sandwiches here are hot, tasty, and delicious."

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.

14
Gold Bean Cafe image 1

Cafe blends a clean aesthetic with a super chill vibe perfect for studying. Bagel sandwiches like the Berkeley club and breakfast ciabatta with bacon and spinach stand out. Coffee is mild, matching the relaxed atmosphere and slow music.

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."

"The food and drinks here are great for work friendly."

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.

15
Saigon Express image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Casual Vietnamese spot serves classic pho and customizable banh mi on French-style bread that's low in sugar. Affordable prices and vegetarian options attract college crowds. Quick service and a clean, well-kept space complete the experience.

Sandwiches use French-style bread with low sugar, making them suitable for diabetes. Options allow customization by adding items from other sandwiches, though portion sizes can vary.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is the best I've ever tasted."

"The banh mi here is light and tasty with well-marinated meat."

"I found the sandwich to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including pho and banh mi.

2

Vegetarian options are available, which is uncommon for Vietnamese restaurants.

3

Prices are reasonable, with many dishes under $10.

16
Berkeley Espresso image 1

Small coffee shop offers calm music and intimate vibes with comfy chairs and varied tables. Bagel sandwiches shine with fresh ingredients and solid flavor. Students and artists create a genuine local atmosphere perfect for work or chats.

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."

"It's a great spot to work on your laptop with free wifi."

"I thought the bagel sandwiches here were amazing."

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.

17
K's Coffee House image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop serves quality coffee from an Italian machine in a quiet atmosphere with outside seating. Sandwiches like the pastrami sandwich and bagel breakfast with avocado are light on meat but tasty. Busy at lunchtime with local teens, prices stay fair for all offerings.

Sandwiches include a pastrami sandwich and a bagel breakfast sandwich with avocado that tends to fall out. Options cover breakfast and lunch with beef lamb wraps and burritos. Meat portions in sandwiches, bagels, and wraps lean toward light.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be really good."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I enjoyed the tasty pastrami sandwich here."

Good to know

1

The coffee house offers a variety of items including coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.

2

Expect busy hours around 12pm due to local high school students.

3

Outside seating is available for those who prefer to dine al fresco.

18
Angeline's Louisiana Kitchen image 1

Louisiana-themed decor and New Orleans artifacts create a cozy vibe. Live jazz and zydeco music add a laid-back atmosphere. Chicken sandwiches and Po Boy stand out with large portions and great flavor. Outdoor seating makes it family-friendly and welcoming.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with large portions and solid taste. The Po Boy and muffuletta sandwiches come highly recommended for their flavor and presentation.

People are saying

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

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

"I found this chicken sandwich to be the best in portion and taste."

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.

19
iniBurger - Gourmet Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Bright seating and relaxed energy create a warm vibe. Bold Nashville Hot chicken sandwich shines with juicy, spicy flavors. Wide menu includes halal-certified and plant-based options for diverse tastes.

Juicy and spicy Nashville Hot chicken sandwich stands out with bold flavors. Some sandwiches come with extra sauce that can make the bread soggy, but off-menu breakfast sandwiches offer tasty variety.

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."

"This sandwich was hot, delicious, and looked great."

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.

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Downtown Berkeley, Berkeley

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