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    Berkeley Cafe

    4.0 (79 reviews)
    InexpensiveBurgers, Sandwiches
    Closed 12:00 pm - 11:00 PM
    Updated 1 month ago

    Berkeley Cafe Photos

    BERKELEY CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Dogs allowed
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Berkeley Cafe

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    Berkeley Cafe in downtown Raleigh NC
    Bruce K.

    There are a couple of these sort of spots in downtown Raleigh that are open for lunch and have full bar service. That's interesting and useful for folks who maybe don't have to go back to work. But me? I want lunch and I want to go back to work and be sober enough to be effective. So while Berkeley Cafe is great for late drinks, it's also good for burgers and such at lunch time. I had a simple enough Caesar salad with chicken and it was very good. Maybe a little heavy on dressing but a good portion and I enjoyed it. Service at the bar was good and the young lady serving kept my drink refilled. [Review 12274 overall, 2058 of 2019.]

    BLT & Beer
    Ryan S.

    A cute hole-in-the-wall spot. We stumbled upon it after being deterred by the crowd at Whiskey Kitchen. Definitely had our doubts as we were walking in, but the staff, food, and environment were perfect. If you want a quick, affordable bite to eat or beer to drink, Berkeley Cafe is perfect. Everyone inside was pleasant and the food was surprisingly tasty. A pleasant surprise for sure.

    people sitting at the bar
    Shannon B.

    Oh man, was this a lucky find! When we finished eating, my whole party agreed that Guy Fieri should come do an episode of Diners, Drive ins and Dives! My sister said she had the best quesadilla of her whole life! We thanked the chef on the way out and we would definitely come find this place again next time we are in town!

    Stephanie J.

    Berkeley Cafe is definitely a spot that is all about their live music (I agree with other reviews on that). Mom and I walked in for dinner and grabbed two seats at the bar. The beer special was for the White Street Kolsch, awesome. For food, I ordered the Veggie Pumper with sweet potato fries and Mom ordered the Philly Steak and Cheese with fries and we split an order of the Creamy Chicken Veggie Soup. The food came out quickly and was good but Berkeley Cafe is not my scene so I would not return.

    Ron W.

    Berkeley Cafe is really about its live music but I couldn't resist visiting for lunch. Run by the folks who used to own Sadlack's, I had fond memories of my meals there and stopped in. Berkeley Cafe is definitely an interesting venue for music and the lunch counter is super spiffy. Nice polished wood bar top and a small selection of grill items, sandwiches and of course, their popular sweet tater tots. I go for the burger with sweet tots and apple dipping sauce. Food takes 10 - 15 minutes and they use good toppings here. But the burger's a bit small and when the lunch goes for $12 with a drink, it just doesn't feel like that good a value. But still, I enjoyed my meal and you can't beat sweet tater tots! I'd have to guess that the Berkeley Cafe is a better visit if you're here for the live music AND the food. But for a quick lunch visit, it still hits the spot...

    Kung Pao cauliflower
    Liz O.

    This place is simple but enjoyable. Don't come here expecting corporate foodchain type service. Think local neighborhood establishment. Very down to earth yet warm and attentive staff. They are very laid back in the customer service style. It could almost be perceived as unprofessional. But I think it gives it character. Its nice to feel like your at a friends house sometimes. Also the waiter was extremely attentive and sociable with me but also did not over impose. Often I get overlooked in favor of regulars in local bars like this. I was very appreciative that even though everyone probably knew each other, I was equally serviced. The Kung Pao cauliflower was really savory and flavorful. I wish there was a little less sauce but overall a good experience. They did have a variety of vegetarian options. My only 'wish they had' is more thought to ensuring vegetarian options have plant based protein so that it is filling. Will try this place again.

    a bartender at the bar
    Michael K.

    This is a nice place, good atmostphere and vibe. There is a "stage" area and the night I was there was open mic night, lots of varying singers and guitar performances. I had the burger and it was quite good, made exactly as I requested, with a ton of fries. I will be going back, and enjoy live entertainment!

    Delicious delicious delicious, creamy chicken Caesar salad
    Maria U.

    At first glance, the Berkeley Cafe does not seem appealing. I would consider it a dive bar in downtown Raleigh. I usually come here for lunch to order a chicken Caesar salad. This is one of my favorite dishes here because I love their creamy Caesar dressing, probably some of the best in the area. The croutons they use for the salad are always different but that doesn't bother me. The taste of the salad makes up for it. The downside to this place is that service is not always consistent. I usually order take out because once this place gets busy, you don't know when you'll be leaving or getting any type of attention from the waitress. The best time to come here is before lunch rush or mid afternoon. While I love the Caesar salad here, their burgers are small and one time one of my co workers got a burnt bun. There's also some items on the menu that can only be ordered for dinner. The beer selection is decent and there's a variety of sandwiches on the menu so I wouldn't completely turn this place down.

    This place is a hidden gem. Justin was amazing! Big Mike is pictured half eaten below. I was full off the drinks! Love the atmosphere.

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    7 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    11 months ago

    This place is really delightful. The food is pretty good and the people are really friendly.

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    1 year ago

    Fantastic food, great beverages, and the specials are always fantastic! A real Raleigh treasure.

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    1 year ago

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    6 years ago

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    11 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    7 years ago

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    5 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Justin S.

    Justin S.

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    5 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    3 years ago

    The food and service were amazing, and they have a nice back patio to sit at. I wish I could go more

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    3 years ago

    James served cameran and I and he was not only helpful but also social throughout our foodie experience.

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    11 years ago

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    7 years ago

    Their psycho killer burger is so good that i frequently drive an hour and a half to Raleigh just to get one.

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    Ask the Community - Berkeley Cafe

    Looking for a spot to post up before the Social D show at Red Hat on Sunday. I have my 13 yo sun with me. Is Berkeley Kid Friendly? Thanks?

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Wow, I haven't been to CowBar in a while since I'm not a huge fan of crazy food halls but their new…read morelocation up at North Hills is top-notch! Located in the newer section of North Hills, CowBar is a more sophisticated rendition of their Morgan Street Food Hall location. Very similar with maybe a few extras, you order up front, get a number, self-service soft drinks and condiments in the back and wait for you eats. Pick up your meal at the counter and it's time to eat! I did their popular truffle burger with fries Italiano and OMG! The burger was amazingly tender, rich and delicious. Tender grilled beef, smoky Gouda cheese, caramelized onions and truffle flavoring throughout. The skin-on fries with shaved parm, rosemary and garlic made for the perfect side. While the bar is not open yet, it looks like CowBar North Hills will have some beers and drinks to go with your burger. Overall I am super happy with what I experienced at CowBar. While the food is a touch pricey, it's totally worth the money and a better option to dine here, versus a crowded, noisy spot. Enjoy, Raleigh. You may have the best burger in the Triangle with CowBar!

    Berkeley Cafe - burgers - Updated May 2026

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