David Go
Berkeley, a vibrant city synonymous with academic excellence and a hub of student life, offers an equally impressive coffee scene. For students, faculty, and visitors of the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) and Berkeley City College, finding that perfect coffee shop to study, socialize, or simply unwind is essential. From cozy nooks to bustling cafes with a strong community vibe, Berkeley’s coffee shops near its universities cater to every taste and need. This guide explores some of the highest-rated and most beloved coffee destinations, ensuring you’re never far from your next perfect cup.
Caffè Strada
Caffè Strada stands as a Berkeley institution, beloved by generations of UC Berkeley students and locals alike. Its expansive, tree-shaded outdoor patio is a quintessential Berkeley experience, offering a lively yet relaxed environment perfect for cracking open a textbook, engaging in deep conversations, or simply people-watching. Famed for its strong espresso and wide array of coffee and tea drinks, Caffè Strada also provides a selection of pastries and light lunch options. It’s not just a coffee shop; it’s a community hub where the intellectual energy of the university blends seamlessly with the laid-back Berkeley vibe. With its prime location directly adjacent to the university, it’s an undeniable go-to for anyone seeking a true Berkeley coffee experience.
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Lunch
- ✔ Beer
- ✔ Wine
- ✔ Menu for children
Amenities
- ✔ Has restroom
- ✔ Good for groups
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
- ❌ live music
- ❌ good for watching sports
- ❌ allows dogs
- ❌ serves cocktails
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
- ❌ wheelchair accessible parking
Payments
- ✔ Credit cards
- ✔ Debit cards
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ cash only
Mind Coffee
Nestled slightly uphill from the main campus, Mind Coffee offers a serene escape for students and locals in search of high-quality specialty coffee and a peaceful environment. This cozy coffee shop is designed for thoughtful contemplation, making it an ideal spot for serious study or quiet reflection. Their menu features a delightful range of espresso-based drinks, pour-overs, teas, and a selection of pastries that perfectly complement your beverage. The welcoming ambiance, coupled with attentive service, makes Mind Coffee a hidden gem for those who appreciate a calm setting to savor their drink and engage in intellectual pursuits, away from the bustling campus crowds yet still conveniently close to UC Berkeley.
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ❌ menu for children
- ❌ serves cocktails
Amenities
- ✔ Has restroom
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ❌ live music
- ❌ good for watching sports
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- ✔ Credit cards
- ✔ Debit cards
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ cash only
1951 Coffee Company
More than just a coffee shop, 1951 Coffee Company is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering refugees through job training and employment. Located conveniently near UC Berkeley, it serves as a beacon of community and social responsibility. Here, you can enjoy meticulously prepared coffee and tea drinks, knowing that your purchase contributes to a noble cause. The cafe boasts a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors, making it an excellent spot for students to study, meet, or simply enjoy a thoughtful break. With its combination of quality brews and a compelling mission, 1951 Coffee Company offers a uniquely enriching experience for every visitor.
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Menu for children
- ❌ serves cocktails
Amenities
- ✔ Has restroom
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
- ❌ live music
- ❌ good for watching sports
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- ✔ Credit cards
- ✔ Debit cards
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ cash only
elaichi co.
elaichi co. brings a unique flavor to Berkeley’s coffee scene, specializing in classic South Asian chai and an array of delightful baked goods, most notably their aromatic cardamom buns. This casual eatery offers a refreshing alternative to traditional coffee shops, inviting patrons to explore a world of rich, spiced beverages. Located conveniently close to UC Berkeley, it’s a popular destination for students and faculty looking for something different. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, providing ample space for both quiet contemplation and lively group discussions. With its distinctive offerings and friendly service, elaichi co. is a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic and flavorful experience near campus.
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
- ✔ Delivery
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ❌ menu for children
- ❌ serves cocktails
Amenities
- ✔ Has restroom
- ✔ Good for groups
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
- ❌ allows dogs
- ❌ live music
- ❌ good for watching sports
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- ✔ Credit cards
- ✔ Debit cards
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ cash only
Sasha Coffee
Sasha Coffee is a delightful and cozy coffee spot perfectly situated to serve students from both Berkeley City College and UC Berkeley. With its inviting ambiance and focus on quality, it quickly becomes a favorite for those seeking a tranquil place for a coffee break. The menu features expertly crafted espresso drinks, from classic lattes to rich americanos, alongside a tempting array of fresh pastries. The friendly baristas contribute to the warm and personal experience, making every visit a pleasure. Whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix before class or a comfortable nook to relax, Sasha Coffee delivers a charming and high-quality experience that stands out in the bustling downtown Berkeley area.
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
- ✔ Curbside pickup
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ❌ menu for children
- ❌ serves cocktails
Amenities
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ❌ live music
- ❌ good for watching sports
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- ✔ Credit cards
- ✔ Debit cards
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ cash only
Roast&Toast Cafe
Roast&Toast Cafe provides a unique and inviting experience, blending the classic coffee shop ambiance with subtle Middle Eastern influences. Situated north of the main UC Berkeley campus, it’s an excellent choice for students and residents of North Berkeley seeking a relaxed spot with exceptional coffee and delightful pastries. Beyond beverages, Roast&Toast also offers a more substantial menu, including lunch, dinner, and brunch options, making it a versatile destination for any meal of the day. The cafe’s warm decor, coupled with its highly praised friendly service, creates a welcoming environment perfect for focused study, casual meetings, or simply enjoying a good book with a delicious cup of coffee. Its strong community feel makes it a neighborhood favorite.
Service options
- ✔ Dine-in
- ✔ Takeout
- ✔ Delivery
Offerings
- ✔ Coffee
- ✔ Dessert
- ✔ Lunch
- ✔ Dinner
- ✔ Beer
- ✔ Brunch
- ✔ Vegetarian food
- ✔ Menu for children
- ❌ serves cocktails
Amenities
- ✔ Has restroom
- ✔ Outdoor seating
- ✔ Has Wi-Fi
- ✔ Good for children
- ❌ allows dogs
- ❌ live music
- ❌ good for watching sports
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating
- ❌ wheelchair accessible parking
Payments
- ✔ Credit cards
- ✔ Debit cards
- ✔ NFC
- ❌ cash only
Berkeley’s coffee landscape near its esteemed universities is as diverse and dynamic as its academic environment. Each of these coffee shops offers a unique charm, from historic student havens to modern artisanal roasters and socially-conscious enterprises. Whether you’re seeking a quiet corner for focused study, a lively spot to connect with friends, or simply a delicious cup to start your day, the coffee shops around UC Berkeley and Berkeley City College provide an array of welcoming spaces, making your collegiate experience in Berkeley even richer.
