Introduction
Berkeley is a foodie paradise, a city brimming with culinary creativity and a diverse array of flavors from around the globe. And sometimes, the most satisfying way to experience this gastronomic wonderland is in the comfort of your own home. Let’s face it: the demands of student life, busy work schedules, and the simple desire for a cozy night in have made take out food an essential part of the Berkeley lifestyle. But with so many options, how do you navigate the delicious chaos and find the truly outstanding take out experiences?
Berkeley’s appeal for take out lovers stems from several key factors. The city’s incredibly diverse population translates to an equally diverse culinary landscape, offering everything from authentic Szechuan cuisine to innovative vegan creations. The large student population, with its budget constraints and on-the-go lifestyle, drives demand for convenient and affordable meal options. The fast-paced atmosphere of the Bay Area, combined with a growing awareness of environmental responsibility, also fuels the desire for quick, sustainable, and delicious take out choices.
This article is your passport to the best take out in Berkeley. We’ll guide you through a curated selection of restaurants, catering to every taste and budget. Our focus is on identifying establishments that excel in quality, convenience, and overall value. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of ramen, a spicy plate of tacos, or a healthy salad, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover your new favorite take out spots in Berkeley!
The Very Best Take Out Destinations in Berkeley
When selecting the top contenders for take out supremacy in Berkeley, we considered a range of factors. The most important, of course, is the quality of the food. Fresh ingredients, skillful preparation, and authentic flavors are paramount. Consistency is also key; we want to recommend places that deliver a consistently excellent experience, no matter when you order. Popularity within the Berkeley community is a strong indicator of quality, as is a good value for your money. Finally, ease of ordering – whether online or by phone – plays a crucial role in the overall take out experience.
First up, we have “Zino,” an Italian restaurant specializing in comforting pasta dishes and pizzas that travel surprisingly well. Zino’s quick service and ample portions make it an ideal choice for a satisfying and affordable take out meal. Their spaghetti carbonara is a classic for a reason, creamy and decadent, while their Margherita pizza, made with fresh mozzarella and basil, is a simple but perfect choice. You can find Zino on Shattuck Avenue.
Next, we wholeheartedly recommend “Top Dog,” a Berkeley institution that has been serving up delicious hot dogs for generations. While it might seem simple, Top Dog is a master of its craft. Their Vienna Beef hot dogs are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are always fresh. It’s the ultimate quick and satisfying take out option. Located on Durant Avenue, Top Dog is a Berkeley staple.
“Sweet Dreams Bakery” is our third top pick, perfect for those with a sweet tooth. While technically a bakery, their selection of sandwiches and quiches makes them a great option for a light lunch or dinner. Their pastries, of course, are the main draw, with croissants, muffins, and cookies galore. For something savory, try their ham and cheese croissant or their spinach and feta quiche. Located on University Avenue, Sweet Dreams Bakery is a true gem.
Rounding out our top picks is “Flacos,” a vibrant Mexican eatery known for its flavorful tacos and burritos. Their carnitas tacos, slow-cooked pork in a corn tortilla with cilantro and onion, are an absolute must-try. Their burritos are equally impressive, packed with your choice of meat, beans, rice, cheese, and salsa. Flacos offers a quick, flavorful, and affordable take out experience. They have multiple locations.
Finding Take Out Perfection By Cuisine
Sometimes, you crave a specific type of food. Here are our top recommendations for various cuisines in Berkeley.
The Best Asian Take Out in Berkeley
When it comes to Asian flavors, Berkeley offers a dizzying array of options. But for truly exceptional Chinese take out, we recommend “Great China,”. Their Peking Duck, crispy-skinned and served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, is a showstopper. For a more casual option, their Kung Pao Chicken is a classic that never disappoints. Great China is located in Downtown Berkeley.
For Japanese take out, “Iyasare,” is the place to go. Their bento boxes are beautifully presented and packed with flavorful dishes. The chicken teriyaki bento and the salmon bento are particularly popular. Iyasare on Fourth Street is a truly amazing option.
Delving into the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Palates
For a taste of the Mediterranean, “Gypsy’s Trattoria,” stands out. Their gyros, filled with tender seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, are simply divine. The falafel plate is a vegetarian delight, featuring crispy falafel, hummus, tahini, and a side salad. Gypsy’s Trattoria is a Berkeley treasure.
If you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern flavors, look no further than “Tazé,”. Their shawarma plates are packed with flavorful marinated meat, rice, hummus, and salad. Their baba ghanoush is smoky and delicious, perfect for dipping with pita bread. Tazé has several locations in the East Bay.
The Art of Pizza Take Out
Pizza is a take out staple, and Berkeley has plenty of great options. For a classic New York-style pizza, “Sliver Pizzeria,” is your best bet. Their thin-crust pizzas are perfectly cooked and topped with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each day they offer a pizza of the day which are often innovative. Sliver has multiple locations.
For a more gourmet pizza experience, try “Cheese Board Pizza,”. They serve a unique vegetarian pizza each day, using seasonal ingredients. The lines can be long, but the pizza is well worth the wait. Located on Shattuck Avenue, the Cheese Board is an institution.
Vegetarian and Vegan Take Out Wonders
Berkeley is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, with numerous restaurants offering delicious plant-based options. “Gather,” is a standout choice. Their vegan burger, made with a blend of vegetables and grains, is surprisingly flavorful and satisfying. They are known for their sustainable and ethical practices.
For a more casual vegan option, try “The Butcher’s Son,”. This vegan deli serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Their vegan Reuben is a crowd favorite. Located on University Avenue, The Butcher’s Son is a vegan dream.
Budget-Friendly Take Out in Berkeley
Eating well on a budget is essential for many Berkeley residents. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable take out options available. “Berkeley Thai House,” offers generous portions of flavorful Thai dishes at reasonable prices. Their Pad Thai is a classic, and their curries are always a good choice.
“La Burrita,” is another excellent budget-friendly option. Their burritos are huge and packed with your choice of meat, beans, rice, cheese, and salsa. For an extra dollar, you can add guacamole. La Burrita has multiple locations throughout Berkeley.
Mastering the Art of Ordering Take Out in Berkeley
To make the most of your take out experience in Berkeley, here are a few tips.
Try to plan ahead, especially if you’re ordering during peak hours. Weekends, particularly Friday and Saturday nights, can be very busy. Check the restaurant’s website or use online ordering platforms to see the wait times and estimated delivery times.
Delivery apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub are incredibly convenient, but be aware of the associated fees. These apps typically charge a delivery fee, a service fee, and sometimes a small order fee. Consider ordering directly from the restaurant to save money. Many restaurants offer online ordering or accept phone orders. By ordering directly, you’re also supporting local businesses and helping them avoid paying commission fees to the delivery apps.
Always check for take out specials and promotions. Many restaurants offer discounts on certain dishes or during specific hours. Look for deals on their website, social media pages, or in local newspapers.
Finally, consider sustainable packaging options. Many restaurants are now using eco-friendly containers, but you can also bring your own reusable containers to reduce waste. It’s a small gesture that can make a big difference.
A Take Out Epilogue
Berkeley’s take out scene is a reflection of its vibrant culinary landscape. From classic comfort food to innovative vegan creations, there’s something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you discover some new favorite spots and provided you with the tools to navigate the delicious world of take out in Berkeley.
So, the next time you’re craving a delicious meal but don’t feel like cooking, explore the amazing take out options Berkeley has to offer. From grabbing a quick bite between classes to settling in for a cozy movie night with friends, the possibilities are endless. Remember to support local businesses, explore different cuisines, and embrace the convenience and joy of take out. Happy eating!
