It's places like I.B.'s that makes me wish I were an overweight boy who didn't give a crap about what I ate. Always delicious, but so fattening :( I love getting the Hot Link or Hot Pastrami sandwich, and I load it up with mustard, hot sauce and jalapeno peppers (tastes better than it sounds, trust me). If I'm super duper hungry, I'll get an order of curly fries (the best kind of fries!). And then I'll stop eating for the rest of the week. For the price, the sandwiches are really large (I can split mine into two meals and a snack), and they are generous in how much meat they put in there. The meat is always hot and juicy, and the fries are crispy perfection. I'm getting hungry just writing about them. I'd love to explore the menu a bit more, but that also means I'd have to hit the gym twice a day... I'll think about it. There's not much seating inside the store itself (it's like a counter and two bar tables and a couple of stools), but they have tables and seats on the pavement out front. Great for evenings, but I hated eating my hot sandwich with the scorching sun on my face. Not very classy at all (actually, nothing about this review is very classy... haha). read more

This is an update, gave them another try, as i was not too excited about the cheesesteaks here i went for a burger and honey garlic wings, the burger was ok but was the size of a mcdouble and for $9 it is a rip off in my opinion. The wings were over breaded with what appears to be flour or corn starch not too sure, also they were underdone and pretty fatty, just not my style of wing. I will probably not come back just being honest. read more

I heart cheesesteak sandwiches. I think it started back in junior high when my mom would take us to the mall to eat sandwiches there. So when I felt I needed a light snack on a sunny SF afternoon, we headed to I.B.'s Hoagies in good ol' Berkeley. Ordered the mushroom steak, with everything on it, and curly cheese fries. The mushroom steak was good, but I think the chicken would've been better. Halfway through it, I realized what was missing - ranch dressing. I asked for some and the sandwich immediately became better. What a waste of half of it with no ranch! Stupid stupid stupid! And then the fries. There are cheese fries. And then there are I.B.'s CHEESE. CURLY. FRIES. They must pour in the cheese and the fries together in harmony, because no fry is cheeseless. A small is a huge tub, plenty to share between two people. I could've bought another regular fries and dumped it in there to lighten up the cheesy goodness a bit. And if you sit at one of the two high-tops inside, you can people watch all the students and freaks walking by. Or like us, see someone showing his friends the new bong he just bought. Sweet! Always a nice, affordable stop when you're near UCB. Before or after a hit is up to the individual. read more

I must conclusively say that I don't like Philly cheesesteaks after my visit to IB's Hoagies. This was the second time I ever had a Philly cheesesteak in my life and I think it's not the food for me. I came into IB's Hoagies because it had 4 stars on Yelp and people rave about the mushroom philly cheesesteak and the fries. I ordered the 6 inch mushroom philly cheesesteak with a small cup of garlic fries. The female cashier wasn't rude, but she didn't seem interested in being there-- it wasn't a snotty attitude, but more like resignation about working there. I was put off because I expect politeness from cashers, not friendliness mind you, just simple politeness. Anyways, I paid the $8 and then waited for the food. It took about 10 minutes to come out. After coming home to see what the hype is about, all I saw was a simple sandwich with meat, mushroom, cheese, lettuce, onions, and hot sauce. The sandwich was okay, the meat to the bread ratio was bad though. There was too much bread and not enough of the mushrooms or the meat. Even though it was filling for me, I just felt like I was eating a lot of bread. The garlic fries were good, but not mind-blowing. There wasn't enough garlic-- if it doesn't cut my mouth, I'm not happy. The amount of garlic in the fries was actually kind of sad, there probably wasn't even a clove of garlic in that cup of fries. Overall, I wasn't impressed. The sandwich wasn't bad, but I could save myself $5 and go to Top Dog for a better meal. IB's Hoagies just didn't measure up to other places in Berkeley in terms of quality or quantity, so I won't be returning. read more

Sometimes fake is better.* The chili cheese fries at Ib's are some of the best I've had anywhere. The cheese is nacho cheese (which I LOVE!), and the chili is super processed and contains no trace of beans (which I HATE!). All that on top of perfectly crunchy-on-the-outside-mushy-on-the-inside fries = perfection. Just look at the picture. *Note: Does not apply to people, handbags, or boobs. read more

IB’s - Chili cheese fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

This place fucked my stomach up so bad I couldn't go to work for 4 days because it had messed it up

Back in the day as a poor college student, I used to treat myself to this place whenever I had some extra cash or if I needed a real pick-me-up. I have no idea what a "true" Philly cheesesteak is but all I know is that sandwiches always hit the spot and they were very filling. The meat, cheese, onions, and peppers always combined with the warm bread to make a delicious and much desired treat. They were usually quick with the service and they were consistent with the quality of their sandwiches. Just writing about it makes me want to go now. read more

Had a cheesesteak for the first time in 2 years. I was really hungry after being at a meeting all day and hadn't eaten all day. I was really disappointed to get a tough unseasoned sandwich I could not finish. Their fries were great. I hope it was just a bad day. However as soon as I bit into the sandwich I was mad i didn't go to the burger place across the street. read more

I ordered the mushroom cheesesteak. Fair prices but the steak was hard and chewy. It had no flavor if not for dressing. Maybe try something different? read more

Went here late night after a concert . The place was pretty packed but we were helped pretty quickly. I was impressed seeing the place being run by 4 women and they were killing it. We got a western burger, a mushroom cheesesteak and some fries. The portions are huge and well priced. The burger was good but slightly dry (a little more sauce would have been nice)but the cheesesteak was really good. I would definitely return to this place! read more

** employees not following covid guidelines we decided to come here to grab some late night burgers on the weekend, but was extremely disappointed to see a worker NOT WEARING A MASK. given the current pandemic and safety guidelines set it place, it's incredibly dangerous for a worker handling food to not even have a mask!! we also noticed a few other workers around either not wearing masks properly or going into the back and taking their mask off. this leaves us wondering what other guidelines and safety regulations might this restaurant and it's employees not be following.. we had ordered a cheesesteak and the western bacon burger, which were decent but nothing amazing. the cheesesteak was nice, but the burger was very average, for the price you're better off eating somewhere else. would not come back, especially during covid times. read more

This is my spot! Has been since I was a child. My favorite of all the IBs in the East bay. They have so many combinations of food, it's hard to go wrong if you order right. The workers there are always slammed. So give them a little slack and be clear on what you want. There is a reason why they are so busy. If you grew up around here, then you know what I'm talking about. Still the best cheesesteak I've had besides Gino's and Pat's in Philly. Just my opinion! So go try for yourself and stop wondering. YEEEEE! read more

Food was good but sanitation is my biggest concern. I saw employees touch everything from customer credit card to door handles and not change their gloves to go on and cook the food. I like this place but they need to be more aware read more

I can't believe I have not yet written a review for IB's. hmm. WELL, I adore this little joint. and their mushroom steak (cheesesteak)! That's pretty much the only thing I order from here aside from their curly fries, but man, oh man do I love their mushroom steak. (I think that's where this 5 stars gets it from) Well imagine a cheesesteak and hamburger kinda put together with mushrooms on it. YES. I've taken friends here and they rave over it as well--am I going to start a Mushroom Steak from IB's little fan club? Perhaps so. But don't just take it from me. Head on over to IB's and try one for yourself! *side not to my self: I should PROBABLY try other things on their menu, but I don't want to risk it being not as successful as my love for their mushroom steak then regret not ordering the usual. But we only live once, right?* read more

3.5 stars. I am as big of a fan of I.B's Hoagies as anyone. So much so that I've been frequenting the joint that I hold close to my heart since 2005. Back in the day when I was in college I would order a large chili cheese fries, chili cheese burger, and a donut from King Pin donuts. I'll thank early 20's metabolism for being able to survive such glutinous behavior without becoming a whale. Of recent I feel like the quality is not quite the same. It's used to be a solid 4 stars for me, but I'll dock it a half a star just for a couple recent experiences. I still would highly recommend IB's for anybody just looking for some greasy 'I want a heartattack' type of food. The value is second to none. An order of a large cheesesteak could easily be 2 meals for only $8.99. Must orders: Mushroom Steak: mmm mushrooms, grilled onions, and all the fixings on a toasted french roll. Can't go wrong. I haven't found any other cheesesteak place better than I.B's in the east bay. Enjoyable! Chili Cheese Curly fries!!!!!: THIS IS MY FAVORITE. Curly fries don't come by that often. Throw on that pippin hot chili and steamin cheese and it's all good in the hood. Chili cheese fries: Same chili, same cheese but just with regular fries instead of curly. Still devilishly yummy. The garlic fries and chili cheese burger are just so so. My next visit I want to try the garlic steak sandwich since they put fresh whole grilled garlic on it. Please don't expect a nice dining experience at I.B's. It is in the heart of Berkeley college town. You will get your fair share of obnoxious frat boys and bums just loitering around. The seating is only a couple small circular tables with bar stools. It's a no frills type a joint which is my type of place! It's all good in the hood. read more

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My girlfriend and I were walking around Telegraph Ave when we happened to spot IB Hoagies. We decided to give it a shot and ordered a large mushroom cheesesteak w/ an order of tater tots. We had asked if it would be possible to have half regular/half sweet potato tater tots and they were more than happy to do so. When the food came out, I was somewhat taken aback by the sheer size of the cheesesteak. They were more than generous with their portions and the quality of the food was pretty good. This is not the best cheesesteak I have ever had, but it definitely ranks towards the top. IB Hoagies had a sign hanging that stated that they use grass fed/organic beef. Customers won't be able to determine if they really use grass fed/organic beef, but at least they are hippie/hipster compliant. My only complaint about this place is the lack of seating and the quality of seating. They have a few tables out front, but the seats were all wobbly/prone to breaking. I had to pop a squat to prevent one of the chairs from snapping under my weight. Overall: Food is good (not greasy), portions are huge, staff is friendly, limited seating. read more

IB’s - Large (15 inch) mushroom cheese steak was larger than my girlfriend - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

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3 stars for the food, 4 for the service, and 4 for the affordability. I've walked by IB's nearly 500 times and finally finally decided to try the place out tonight. I ordered a cheeseburger and garlic fries. The service was very friendly and they were very accommodating--no problem cooking the burger med rare (though it was more like medium), and giving me a lettuce wrap. Overall the burger was just alright. Very juicy meat, tasted good, with decent flavor. Generous with the cheese and toppings. The garlic fries were just meh as well, though next time I will ask for extra crispy. The actual food itself was slightly disappointing, tho I probably should try a cheesesteak or hoagie next time. They have corned beef which i absolutely love. Will get a cheesesteak and update my review accordingly next time around. *UPDATE* The wings suck. read more

Helllllla good. We got 2 steak and shrimp cheese steaks (probably could have went halfsies). Anyways, the size was good for the prices and the overall quality/flavor was really good IMO. Was recommended to try this place, glad we finally did! read more

IB’s - Surf and Turf Cheesesteak - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

Less than ideal service; I wish I'd known to ask how long my order, a regular cheesesteak, would take. It was 26 minutes. The food quality is... good enough. Like a lot of food places around the UC, seems to cater more to less picky students on a budget. read more

Got the cookies sub fucked with it heavy. Wish the price wasn't as high but u gotta get over that part to just dive in and enjoy! (:

After almost two years as a CAL parent - we finally get to try IB's after a night out dancing with our kid in San Fran. Stand in line to order and then let the music and the vibes keep you occupied while the smell of steak and fries keeps you craving the ultimate mushroom cheese steak! I was able to peek behind the counter to see the grill and fryers cooking up the fresh ingredients by the busy staff. We received the cheesesteak cut in half to share and a large curly fries. It was the best late night food I have experienced. I am glad we don't live too close or it would be hard to avoid IB's late night. We are going to add this spot to our CAL Parents in SoCal tour! read more

IB’s - Sitting in the corner while the food cooks - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

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I really don't understand how this place can have a 4 star review. Maybe there just aren't many good options in this part of town. Maybe the college budget doesn't let other Yelpers taste better food. Maybe most Californian Yelpers haven't been to the Northeast to experience an authentic Philly cheesesteak. Regardless, a more well-versed palate will surely dislike this establishment. Not only is it bad food, it is bad food poorly trying to replicate a very particular kind of specialty food so you have shattered expectations to weigh it down as well. I asked for my cheesesteak with only grilled onions and cheese, the Cheez Whiz-like kind. A lot of fixings were offered by default (lettuce, tomatoes, mayo, mustard, etc.), but I wanted to make my experience as Philly-centric as possible even if the menu wasn't geared for that by default. I received my cheesesteak with some crappy white sliced cheese. Either the cashier didn't understand me or didn't care or both. Upon closer reflection, this place may just not even comprehend to serve Cheez Whiz-style cheese on the cheesesteak as the authentic version should be. This is weird though, since they obviously stock that topping for the cheese fries toppings. The meat was pretty low quality and overly burnt. The hoagie roll was decent. I've had much worse interpretations of Philly cheesesteak bread, but this hoagie roll bore some semblance.... about the only redeeming quality. read more

These Cheesesteaks are the real deal, and super filling. If you want something else like fries, try it with bacon and melted cheese!

I love this place!!! Always fresh food and fast service. I've been here several times but always forget to take a picture to post. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu! Also, I'm very impressed with the safety protocols they have in place during COVID and feel comfortable taking out from here so idk what that other review about but they def COVID-19 compliant! read more

IB’s - Classic cheesesteak and cheese fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

I am true fan of cheesesteaks. While IB's can make a decent cheesesteak, it's not the best that I have had. I usually have to ask for extra cheese and even then sometimes I feel like it still needs something. On the other hand, they make great cheese fries! read more

Trying to get a refund for my two subs through UberEats...the meat was so overcooked it was crispy! Unacceptable! read more

IB’s - Burnt meat! - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

Sorry Ib's... you get a 4. The Cheesesteak Shop gets a 5. I think the meat here is too much like real meat. Ok. Weird comment... Lemme explain. If i want an unhealthy, fatty, cheesy cheesesteak, I want it made with delicious, tender, damn-that's-good-i-wonder-what-kind-of-meat-that is-mystery-meat. Yes yes... pretty nasty. But seriously... for example, at McDonald's, you sure as hell aren't tasting any Grade A ground chuck in those burgers! Cheap greasy eats should use cheap greasy meats! Ib's... you're meat is just too... meaty for me. Flavor is damn good though and the large is HUUUUGE! Chili cheese fries. Order them. Sidenote: Don't drink their "lemonade" from the fountain. It's weird.... read more

Apparently a mask is not required inside which is ridiculous. I know it's hot but for that gentleman to walk inside without one is crazy. It's not safe and they should not cook food knowing people will be inside with out a mask I'm super disappointed because protecting people is so important. If my 4 year old toddler needs to wear a mask these group of people should be required read more

This is one of my favorite spots to get fried chicken! I really love the Honey Garlic flavor & I order it every single time. The only reason I gave this a three star is because on Sunday 10/3, 7:50pm the girl who was taking my order didn't know what she was doing. I ordered two 5pc chicken & it totaled up to $16 w/ tax & I continued to pay. I look at how much the 20pc would be & on the menu above, it says $20 so I asked if I could refund the 10pc chicken that I ordered so I could get the 20pc for abt $4 more. After a couple of minutes, she said "We can't do the refund", which I think really meant that she didn't know how. I've worked at many fast foods before & there is almost ALWAYS a way to refund the customer. I just think she needs more training. I didn't want to go through anymore trouble since she seemed frustrated already so I waited for my food and left. Last note, she was wearing gloves, one of them completely ripped (probably because she had very long acrylic nails) & touching the register then went back to handling the food. This wasn't my best experience here but the food tasted great anyway. read more

I was in Oakland for an event and I was looking for a fast food place. I was recommended by my friend to try this place. It didn't disappoint. I ordered the Chili Cheese Fries. They were pretty good. There is no dine in unfortunately. The service was great. The workers were patient and professional. I would definitely come back read more

Absolute best Philly cheese sandwich I've ever had. The bread was soft and held perfectly together. The meat was flavorful and the cheese melted on to perfection! I ordered in advance and it was being wrapped fresh as I arrived! This place is a must try! Not to mention the fries were amazing! Can't wait to go again!!! read more

I can see if you are a student at Cal that this place would be the business. We went here because a friend who is an alum raved about it and we wanted to explore the area. Being the Philly Cheese steak connoisseur that I am I have high expectations... I got the basic Philly Cheese to judge the shop in its purest form. The sammich has the small chopped up onions (no bueno). The sammich is too dry and doesn't have enough meat for me. The price is a buck or two cheaper than a normal Philly. We got the garlic fries and they weren't nearly as crispy as I like, but they do give you a grip that we were able to split three ways. In general, hit this place up if you're walking around and have a cravin' for a philly cheese, but if you have wheels, go somewhere else. read more

IB’s - Garlic Fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Ugh. It's a bummer to leave this review cuz IB's is a Berkeley staple. Since the onset of COVID, I've ordered from them a couple times. The first time, my order took a really long time, but I figured they're just swamped and trying to figure out COVID protocols. If it was just that I'd still go back. But most recently, I walked in and only 2 of 6 employees was wearing a mask covering their mouth and nose - one person wasn't wearing any mask, a couple others had them pulled down all the way or below their nose. Listen, it's gotta fucking suck working a long shift in a hot kitchen wearing a mask. But I can't give my business to a place that is putting customers AND employees in danger by being so overly casual about read more

Their burgers and sandwiches go crazy! Very juicy! They fill it up to the max! Their wings are not that good. Asked for curly fries but got regular. Cashier messes up the order, they don't listen. read more

IB's is the place to go for a hoagie and/or cheesesteak! Always consistent and all around great attentive service and staff. My go-to for a solid cheesesteak! read more

For there being a ton of people outside the wait wasn't too long which was amazing! I've been meaning to try this place for a while and I must say....RUN don't walk! Juicy meat, melted cheese, and toasted buns with the works is safe to say the best sandwich I've ever had! I couldn't even speak after the first bite, let alone the entire sandwich. Even the vibes are unmatched and they stay open late, what more could you ask for? read more

Food is great but I don't feel safe eating here during the Covid outbreak. Both the cashier and the cook were wearing masks with their noses exposed. The guy in front of me picking up his order wasn't wearing a mask. I totally get that it's hot over the grill and that it's hard to talk to customers with a face covering, but this isn't an inconvenience, you are playing with lives by not taking the current pandemic with full sincerity and unrelenting safety protocols. read more

Easily the best cheesestake spot in the Bay, theres many to choose from but this one sits at the top because of their unique menu. Haven't seen a cheesestake menu quite like theirs, they have everything you can think of as well as classic cheestakes. My personal favorite is the "Cookies" cheesestake, which has chicken and trufffle suace mixed with teriyaki mushrooms. Best thing ive eaten for sure! Thanks Fuad! read more

The surf and turf is DELICIOUS and is enough food for two meals. Make it a combo and get tasty af curly fries. Best cheesesteaks in the bay. FIGHT ME. read more

IB’s - Nice. - Sandwiches Near Me - Berkeley, California

I have came here for years. I am super disappointed in how it's being ran now. The cashier allowed an Uber eats driver to push pass me to get his food despite I had been waiting at least 20 mins. Totally unacceptable. May not support them after this. How many chances can you give people read more