Berkeley

At Chez Panisse even humble pizza is reincarnated, with innovative toppings of the freshest local ingredients. — Fodor's

The ambiance is "unbeatable" at this "slightly upscale" Berkeley Mexican boasting a "fab" interior and "outstanding" patio with a fire pit. — Zagat

Recycled cork wainscoting and parchment lanterns lend an earthy, Japanese vibe to Rivoli, which backs up to a lush "secret" garden framed by dramatic windows. — Michelin Guide

Never ordinary. Always delicious. — Not For Tourists

Well known for its homemade sodas and enormous sandwiches, the Saul's of today also uses sustainably sourced seafood, grass-fed beef, and organic eggs. — Fodor's

"Sensational" "French countryside–inspired" breakfasts starring "creative" pancakes and omelets and "bowl-size café au lait" make this "affordable" cafe with a "charming" "Provence vibe". — Zagat

This is our favorite Berkeley cheap-eats, with all-fresh-made Indian classics (no tikka masala here) ordered at the counter. — Lonely Planet

The promised land of pancakes. — Not For Tourists

Rivoli's "smaller, more casual" trattoria sister near the Berkeley Rep serves up "divine pasta" and other "rustic" Florentine-style cucina plus "top-rate" wines at "value prices". — Zagat

Thoughtful food and cocktails. — Not For Tourists

There's a “unique concept” behind this pizzeria set in the “legendary” Cheese Board Cooperative, where a “cultlike following” is willing to wait in “long lines” for “scrumptious” vegetarian pies. — Zagat

Chef Shotaro Kamio heads up the kitchen of this “real”-deal Japanese on Berkeley’s Fourth Street, crafting “sublime” sushi and “artful”, “adventurous” izakaya items. — Zagat

Situated only steps away from the original Berkeley Bowl, Kirala is a treasured local haunt. — Michelin Guide

Hush puppies, bananas foster bread pudding, the works! — Not For Tourists

Fine Mexican cuisine off the beaten track. — Gayot

There are 20 salads and small plates, 10 entrees and four sandwiches. Many of these are excellent. — San Francisco Chronicle

The chef rotates dishes from different regions of India every month, such as duck curry Kerala or Kashmiri dhanwala murg. Slightly pricey, with most main courses $15-20. — Rough Guide

Ciders, wines, sherries, Cognacs and martinis pair up with small plates at this Gourmet Ghetto tapas bar. — Gayot

While "the food's quite good" at this midpriced American with a "terrific location right on the water" in the Berkeley Marina...it's the "breathtaking views of San Francisco...that steals the show. — Zagat