BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA
is located in Alameda County, and it's one of the largest cities near San Francisco, with a population of more than one hundred thousand. It is perhaps best known for the University of California Berkeley, the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, and for the Hearst Greek Theatre where the Berkeley Jazz Festival is held. If you'll be visiting the zip codes of 94701, 94702, 94703, 94704, 94705. 94706. 94707. 94708. 94709, 94710, 94712, and 94720, then you will want to visit at least a few of these great bars and restaurants while you're here!
♦ Chez Panisse ♦
Chez Panisse is an elegant yet casual dining establishment where you'll enjoy your American favorites, Mediterannean specialties, and some Californian treats as well. The offerings on the menu are very creative, many times being crafted on the spot based on what's available fresh that day from their local sources. We love their oysters on the half shell, and their chicken with pesto and steamed greens is so delicious. They also have a great a la carte cafe in the upstairs area that is worth checking out. You can find Chez Panisse on Shattuck Avenue between Cedar Street and Vine Street.
♦ La Note Restaurant Provencal ♦
La Note Restaurant Provencal is of course a delightful French restaurant with superbly fresh offerings on the menu, a nice wine selection, and really warm friendly service. Breakfast is fabulous, and we love their hot chocolate when the weather is cool. Try the creme fraiche pancakes, they are fantastic! As is the French toast. We really love taking advantage of their outdoor seating area when the weather is good. If you love French food as much as we do, you've got to try La Note when you're in town! It's located on Shattuck Avenue between Channing Way and Durant Avenue.
♦ Cheese Board ♦
Cheese Board is probably one of our favorite casual pizza restaurants in the entire San Francisco area, and you can't beat the convenient location right here in Berkeley. They serve something different every day, from a hearty deep dish, to a super thin crust, to a regular pizza that's done just right. The toppings span a wide variety, from exotic choices like shiitake mushrooms and asparagus, to more mundane offerings like pepperoni and onions. We love their bakery choices too, including great baguettes, brioche, and chocolate treats. you can find Cheese Board on Shattuck Avenue between Vine Street and Cedar Street.
♦ Rivoli Restaurant ♦
Rivoli Restaurant has some of the best Italian food in the entire Berkeley and San Francisco area. They've got one of the greatest wine lists that you'll find too, and you simply can't find better service than this. It's perfect for those romantic special occasions like anniversaries, Valentine's Day, etc. Arriving around twilight is a great choice so you can watch their garden transition from daylight to sunset when the lights come on. IT's really beautiful. Try the appetizer that includes crab, tuna, salmon, and mussels! It's superb! You can find Rivoli Restaurant on Solano Avenue between Peralta Avenue and Neilson Street.