Best Restaurants for a Quick Bite in Berkeley

We loved the lamb ribs and the mushroom gnocchi. My server was excellent and her barbera suggestion was perfect for my beef tartare. This was my first time there in a few years and I’m so glad I made it back. The space is beautiful and location is perfect for me coming from the east bay because it’s so close to BART. I won’t be waiting so long to return this time

Who knew vegan food could taste this good?! As a relative newcomer to the vegan world, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality and tastiness of the food here. As appetizers, we had a red lentil soup and a breaded (but not fried) mushroom dish that reminded us of fried calamari. We had a mushroom main course and the Alfredo pasta, both of which were excellent, as were the Brussels sprouts (which used a tempeh sausage in lieu of the usual overly heavy bacon). The desserts too were better than expected, especially the chocolate pie. The service was friendly and attentive without being cloying. We had a reservation for the dining room, but they suggested we take patio seating instead. That proved to be a good recommendation. It was much quieter out there, and the heaters and available blankets offset a bit of chilliness. The dining room meanwhile, was pretty noisy. The meal was a bit pricey but definitely worth it for a special occasion. We will return.

Service was great! Everyone was friendly and attentive

A great pre-theater option for light bites, sandwiches, and salads. Outside seating is nice mid- afternoon and service was wonderful.

The food and service at Z Cafe are consistently excellent. Friendly waitstaff, fresh ingredients and good value keep me coming back. Recently had an excellent gumbo special and the house salad is big and well made with delicious vinaigrette. Other favorites: their crab cakes and tuna melt. Cocktails also very good.