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Kensington Circus Pub

3.8 (350 reviews)
Closed • 5:00 pm - 10:00 PM

Kensington Circus Pub Photos

KENSINGTON CIRCUS PUB ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Moderate noise
Live music
Dogs allowed

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Recommended Reviews - Kensington Circus Pub

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Good food, good service
E. Y. G.

Been coming here for a few years now but things have gone downhill. Service is very bad. The last 3 times, the waiter did not understand a word we were saying at any point and the food just seemed to have no flavor. I also think restaurants should have a dress code, this guy was wearing sweats and a wrinkled t shirt. Tisk tisk. The bread pudding has been served cold multiple times now too. Disappointed.

Our special day at the pub with loved ones!

I recently held my husband's memorial at the Kensington Circus Pub because it is such a special place in our neighborhood. Scott, the owner, and his staff were phenomenal in helping us with all logistics and set up. I can't say enough about how chill this place has always been-- is a hidden gem here in Kensington. The beers are exceptional, the food has always been great (we love the fish & chips and burgers, and the corn fritters with a beer after a neighborhood walk is pretty much Heaven). Thank you, Scott and staff for creating a relaxed space for all of us to eat, drink and just hang.

Gina G.

Kensington Circus Pub is such a hidden gem & most certainly one of our favorite neighborhood places to tuck into. It's not only a fun place to watch a game with friends, but also just for date night to cozy up to the bar for comfort food, a cocktail or freshly poured Guinness, and conversation. Love the British pub feel! Food highlights: corn fritters, thick cut fries, the clam chowder, Caesar salad, Shepherds pie, fish tacos, tuna melt, B.L.A.T. (bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato), and thick cut pork chop to name a few. As you can see, we've been eating here for a few years - the food is always consistent, fresh, hearty portions, and honestly there's such a variety it keeps the overall ordering experience just so fun! The servers make you feel like family and the ambience is lively, especially when sports are on or live entertainment (check their website for the event calendar). We recently stopped in on a weekend evening for dessert, drinks, and music. They have what's called "England's most popular sticky toffee pudding" with a tagline that reads "so good that we have it flown in"...omg they aren't joking! It's so delicious - warm, in a bath of butterscotch sauce with vanilla ice cream and whip cream...yum! Can't rave about this community joint enough - with indoor/outdoor seating, kiddo/dog approved, ample areas for street parking, we'll see ya again for tunes and toffee pudding soon!

Live band
Annabelle R.

A reputable british pub serving some amazing "circus" fish & chips, fries definitely double fried, blackened and crunchy, and the fish flaky and moist, sooo good! I wasn't too big a fan of the tartar sauce here though. We also had the pepe salad, and it was fresh and tasty as well, and large in size, good enough for a filling meal (it better be with the high prices here). We enjoyed live music by the Undertones cover band between 8-10pm, awesome sounds on the electric guitar and bass, drums, and saxophone. They played great songs including Let's Stay Together, Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You, and If I Ain't Got You (by Alicia Keys). Along with a really good speaker system and sound quality in the restaurant, this set the mood for the perfect night. With a lovely atmosphere including quirky decor and Beatles posters, 5 large TVs for enjoying sports, plenty of tables as well as bar seating, easy parking across the street, and friendly service, this was a great spot to enjoy a delicious dinner before going to a show later in the evening. Even though the drive here was a bit out of the way for us, it was worth it.

Dog at table! Not a good look.
Bob F.

Just saying they can tighten up their table service. I wouldn't want to be the next person there. This "dogs everywhere" thing has gone too far! Otherwise I love the beer, food and ambience.

Penne Bolognese
Jules K.

We stopped here after a long grueling day of competition at Albany HS. Hubs and daughter came here last year and enjoyed the steak. This time we all came and arrived around 8pm on a Saturday and were seated right away. Pub is pretty small and they had a live band playing. Hubs ordered the ribeye, daughter sirloin steak, and I tried the bolognese penne pasta. The pasta had a thick hearty bolognese and it was really good. Both hubs and daughter approved of the steaks. I had a bite and it wad delicious. Not cheap so be prepared but food is solid. Definitely not a place for you if you are looking for a quiet cozy spot but solid food.

Montage of images from Kensington Circus Pub
Ed U.

I remember Colusa Circle from years ago when Narsai David had his eponymous restaurant there. Narsai's was a big deal back in the early '80's because he was one of the first chefs to serve California cuisine. As it so happened, this casual, family-friendly eatery would've been next door to it, but it's probably a better fit now for the bedroom community Kensington is. In the mood for comfort food, Jamie W. and I dropped by here after walking up from El Cerrito. It was already pretty busy with several big groups, dog owners, and young parents, some of whom may have been sticking around for the live music scheduled a bit later in the evening. Jamie ordered the $15 Tuna Melt which was stuffed with albacore tuna mixed with mayo. It also featured melted cheddar on grilled sourdough toast. Accompanied by their house-cut fries, it was nicely executed (photo: https://yelp.to/A2XMrF98Ml). I went predictably for the $18 Large Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken, and it was pretty standard except for the chicken breast which was generous and succulent (photo: https://yelp.to/Spv2LqNNmq). We didn't stay for the music, but I could see us coming back without hesitation. FOOD - 4 stars...comfort food well turned AMBIANCE - 4 stars...enough room for a lot of locals in here SERVICE - 4 stars...steady servers TOTAL - 4 stars...no Narsai's but good enough RELATED - Exploring this part of Contra Costa County? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2VyCP18

Ittai S.

If you live in Kensington, you've likely experienced the charm of the Kensington Circus Pub. Whether you're a regular or just passing through Colusa Circle to pick up some fresh ingredients at the farmers market or treats from Semifreddi's bakery, the Circus Pub is a cornerstone of the community. For 35 years, the Kensington Circus Pub has become a favorite spot for gathering with friends and family. A cross between an American Grill and an English pub they serve classic British Ales and West Coast brew in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The pub's menu is as much a draw as its drinks. While you'll find essential bar snacks like fries and onion rings, the Corn Fritters are a must-try, offering a satisfying balance of sweet and savory. For heartier fare, the Circus Pub features high-quality pasta dishes, along with a tempting array of burgers and sandwiches. However, the spotlight remains on traditional English dishes. Of course, there's the iconic Fish and Chips--made with cod strips deep-fried in a beer batter and available in servings of three to six pieces, perfect for sharing. Other standouts include the hearty Shepherd's Pie, featuring stewed lamb topped with mashed potatoes, tomato-cilantro salsa, and cheese. Another pub crowd-pleaser is the Bangers and Mash, which pairs juicy pork sausages with house-made mashed potatoes and rich gravy. My wife was ecstatic when she saw Sticky Toffee Pudding on the menu. Her favorite dessert it's a moist sponge cake bathed in warm toffee sauce, which restaurants don't often get right. In this case, it satisfied a harsh critic and was a truly comforting end to the meal. Beyond its food and drinks, the Circus Pub thrives as a dynamic music venue. Friday and Saturday nights come alive with an eclectic mix of live music. During our last visit, we were treated to some French Cafe Jazz, with its upbeat accordion and spirited violin, with a few couples getting up from their tables to dance (yes, we were one of them). The events calendar is an exciting showcase of everything from country and rock to blues and bluegrass. Their most popular event, literally called the "Beatles Thingy," is held on the last Sunday of every month. It's an energetic Beatles sing-along where the band and the audience take the stage. I repeat, you can experience live-band Beatles karaoke right here in Kensington. The Kensington Circus Pub is more than just a place to eat and drink--it's a reflection of the community's spirit. At its epicenter is Scott McFadin, who bought the pub in 2012 after spending time as its bartender. Since then, he has worked hard to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive environment with a staff that combines attentive service with genuine friendliness, and makes everyone feel at home from the moment they walk through the door. Scott's stories about the pub's past also provide a fascinating view into our local history, filled with anecdotes about notable guests, including Zsa Zsa Gabor, members of The Cure, and even Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. Did you know Maya Angelou resided a few blocks away on Colusa in the 70s? Whether you're drawn in by the food, the live music, or the history, there's no denying that the Kensington Circus Pub is a quintessential part of life in Kensington. Congratulations and thank you for 35 years of being a place where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and the community comes together!

Entrance way
Claude H.

This is a really favorite restaurant. What is there not to like? Welcoming, attentive waitstaff - Warm, no frills, looking exactly like a pub environment - Lots of consistent local clientele - Good, cold, draft beer selection- Decent wine - check (okay, this is one of the few things that could perhaps be better. But this is a nit! What is available works, especially at the price point) Single, couple, family, family with young children, large group friends?- 'em all. Live music- not every night, but Great, wholesome, appropriately hot, or cold, food served at inarguable price points, and done well- absolutely We always enjoys Kensington Circus Pub. It truly has an English feel to it, and we could not be happier with the fare. In particular their steaks are just epicly tender, flavorful, hot and visually appealing. My ribeye last.night was a masterpiece. One of the best steaks I have ever eaten. Just memorable. This with buttery, garlicked mashed potatoes and broccoli meant I was a happy camper. My wife's 4 filet fish & chips (choose how many filets up to six, I believe) were hot, appropriately battered, and served with good fries (chips) and other sides. I hope you'll come here and become part of this restaurant's history, and make it part of yours across the stages of your life.

The stage is set just as the small children's play area empties. Something for everyone!

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6 months ago

7th time. A local bar reminiscent of an Old Englis Pub. Free music from local groups--some of them are very good.

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9 months ago

Always a friendly staff, great beer and wine selection, great food! Be prepared for music on Friday and Saturday, it can get crowded.

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2 years ago

Best food ever!! Ive been going there for years and it never disappoints! The live music and a glass of IPA always hits the spot.

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Ask the Community - Kensington Circus Pub

Are they open on Thanksgiving?

Do they take reservations?

No they don't take reservations except for very very rare occasions, like when they got reviewed for Check Please! Bay Area. For music nights the place sometimes does fill up depending on the artist.

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Schmidt's Pub

Schmidt's Pub

4.4(243 reviews)
0.6 mi•Berkeley Hills
•$

FYI, this spot is cash only. Schmidt's Pub is so unique. Solano Ave. in Albany/Berkeley doesn't…read morehave too many watering holes, and this pub is the perfect mix of quirky and community. There's an exterior in the front to sit outside and enjoy a beautiful late summer evening, and also an exterior in the back of the building to do the same. Or enjoy purchasing a tobacco pipe/tobacco/papers. No food here, but Solano is lined with eateries for pre/post pub action. They have a fireplace for the cold nights, and board games. A fun mix of locals working or hardly working :) This is a beer/wine spot also. Great mix of local sips, and some fun snacks too. Love the art and wall artifacts. A great addition to the area and meeting place for new and old friends alike. Easy on the wallet, metered-parking on Solano.

It's a wonderful tobacco shop and bar/cafe to visit with friends…read more If you travel alone though, the crowd is very introverted, the most of any bar I've ever been to, so much so it may take years of going there before someone says hello to you, let alone bring you into the conversation. I spent my first ten years going there maybe six to ten times a year. That was what it took I immediately sensed. Socially, the Pub moves glacially. I had fun with it. In my eleventh year, 2023, I went regularly for two years, after being officially invited "in". It was then I got to see the depth of the cowardly bully culture there. It's bullies and those that play along, and the bullies are the most socially insecure of the men, essentially Incels, and they hold sway. Kinda sad. I've never been anywhere like it. Ironically, the Pubsters say , "It takes ten years to be a considered a regular." They don't realize what they're saying. It's not inviting. It's also the only bar I've ever been where they give regulars nicknames.....that are only used behind their backs. That said everything to me.

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Schmidt's Pub - 02.2023 fieldwork blueberry parfait

02.2023 fieldwork blueberry parfait

Schmidt's Pub
Schmidt's Pub - 02.2023 today's wine menu

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02.2023 today's wine menu

Raleigh's Pub

Raleigh's Pub

4.0(287 reviews)
2.8 mi•Telegraph Ave
•$$

Made my first trip to Berkeley to watch Cal play football. This sports bar was the highlight of the…read morepregame festivities. It was packed with Cal and Clemson fans. The bar was checking ID's at the entrance so a small line formed outside. Nothing excessive. This bar is a must visit for anyone going to Memorial stadium. It feels bigger than it is. Wooden booths and lots of tables. Patio seating looked nice. Ordering at the bar took a bit of time but most of it was people not knowing what they wanted or having to get their friend to prove the second beer they were ordering was for a 21 or older friend. Didn't get a chance to order food but from the pics posted it looks good. I could have stayed here all night. People watching was pretty fun. My buddy and I had a great time.

Went to Raleigh's Pub before a show at the Greek, and probably stumbled upon the best deal for…read moresteak frites and veggies for $15! The steak with the cream pepper sauce was so enjoyable and with every bite I was saying to myself, how is this only $15. Good amount of meat, generous portion of fries, and asparagus. If I lived closer, I'd probably eat this everyday with no shame. We also got an order of their lemon pepper wings, and these were really good as well. Decent sized wings, dry rub, with a ton of flavor. Simple and flavorful. It was a Friday night, and when we arrived, it was busy and we grabbed a seat at the bar. After a few minutes, we realized that we had to get in line and order. They make all the drinks to order so that took some time to get through the line but once our order was placed, the food came out pretty quick. The menu is reasonably priced all around. The space is large inside and outside so definitely good for groups. Definitely will be back next month when we go to another show just for the steak frites and wings.

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Raleigh's Pub
Raleigh's Pub
Raleigh's Pub - Upper back patio

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Upper back patio

Kensington Circus Pub - british - Updated October 2026

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