Best Restaurants with a Vibrant Bar Scene in Berkeley

Good food and loved the outdoor seating—it had a cover and nice plants and water feature.

We all loved the food atmosphere and service. We lingered a bit over dinner and never felt rushed. Lovely service!

I’ve been to Agrodolce many times and I always love it! Mainly for the food and wine of course, but their ambiance is special as well. It feels a little like you’re whisked out of Berkeley and into Sicily as you enter the building. They play a silent black and white movie on the far wall which sometimes grabs your attention. The service is usually very good, though this most recent visit they may have been short handed. I’ve always sat indoors but they have nice booth seating on the sidewalk now too, and even a guitarist on Friday evening. What do I like to eat? My favorite are the mushroom Ravioli Porcini Trifolati. But other good dishes are: Ragu di Maiale (papparadelle in red sauce with basil, sausage, and other meats), Branzino alla Brace (grilled sea bass with the fixings), Stino d’agnello (braised lamb shank), and Porchetta alla Brace Forno (braised pork shoulder and potatoes). The bread with spiced garlics and olive oil may be the best appetizer of all time, well if you like bread! I also enjoy the Caesar salad.

Consistently delicious, fresh and inventive food. The big cherry buratta crostini and homemade pasta were especially tasty. We ate on their enclosed outdoor patio. They had well placed heaters which made the space cozy. I really appreciate that the dining area is relatively quiet so you can easily have a conversation. Wonderful service too. My favorite neighborhood gem.

We thoroughly enjoyed the experience! In addition, our server was cognizant of the fact that we might be attending a performance and asked in advance if that was as the case. We had a well paced, delicious meal and made it to the Berkeley Rep Theater with zero stress. Well done and appreciated!