Iconic Jewish deli in the East Bay. When you need your comfort food, Saul's is there. I've been coming here for years and ordered across the menu. This review, however, is about their bagels specifically, which clock in at 3 stars. The bagels feel as if someone read a description of a New York bagel and did their best to recreate it without being totally sure they'd hit the mark. Crisp crust? Dense crumb? Malty flavor? The bagel ticks all the boxes. Yet, each aspect is slightly off. The crust was almost comically thick and took a serious bite to break through. (I guess the bakers got too enthusiastic with the water bath.) The crumb was tight but came off more as dry than chewy. And the malt syrup was poured with a liberal hand -- there is no subtlety to the flavor. To their credit, the cream cheese is well paired. It brings its own flavor with a noticeable tang, and it is dense. You need a bagel that will hold up under the pressure of a knife while spreading the thick schmear. I love that Saul's is making bagels in house now, but I think I will look elsewhere on their menu for the real comfort foods. read more

I have reached out to Saul's offering my review of our lunch several times, but there was no response. I really, really wanted to like this deli, but it fell well below expectations. The signature pastrami sandwich was so tough that I had to return it. I can't count on one hand how many times i. over 50 years that this has happened to me. To the server's credit he not only brought another, but to it off the bill-an impressive gesture. Unfortunately, the second one was just okay. It was significantly less than deli's in LA and NY. The latke and pickles were really good so it wasn't a total disaster. As to whether we return is up for consideration. At over $25 for a sandwich, it may be unlikely? Lastly, the outside orange chairs were extremely uncomfortable and need immediate replacement. read more

I have been going to this establishment for over a decade. It has always been my go to spot for pastrami. It's updated with seating outside since the last time that I was there. The flavors are there but I am going to say it is not how I remembered it. I remembered getting the corned beef hash with nice chunks of meat, eggs your way, with peppers and onions. Delicious. As stated, still good but with a slight change, not so many chunks. Still a solid place to go for good eats and service. Ciao for now. read more

Classic deli comfort done right Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen really delivers on that old-school deli experience with comforting, well-executed food. I had the matzo ball soup and latkes, and both were exactly what I was hoping for. The matzo ball soup was warm, comforting, and deeply flavorful--the broth was rich without feeling heavy, and the matzo ball itself was soft and perfectly cooked. It felt like true comfort food in a bowl. The latkes were crispy on the outside and tender inside, served hot and nicely seasoned. They paired really well with the traditional toppings and made the whole meal feel complete. The atmosphere is casual but lively, and service was friendly and efficient even when it was busy. It's the kind of place that feels consistent and dependable, whether you're going for a quick meal or a relaxed sit-down. Definitely a great spot if you're craving classic deli comfort food done well. read more

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Service was pleasant. Food was excellent. Ambiance was so comfortable and cozy. We came in around 9am and got seated right away. We got the saul's deli hash, it was really good but started to feel heavy. Started craving vegetables while eating this. Solid order though!! The chicken schnitzel sandwich was so delicious. Crunchy, savory, nutty! I enjoyed the sesame seeds in the chicken schnitzel. We got it with a side of latke and it was crispy and soft. Great place to come for breakfast/brunch! read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Saul's deli hash - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

$14 veggie pita sabiche sandwich (grilled eggplant and eggs) was: pretty solid. A bit pricey for the size though. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Pita sabich - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

Went here for a late lunch on a Sunday afternoon. Got a small booth inside and ordered some sodas. For food we got the half sandwich (pastrami) with the matzo ball soup and one latke. The matzo ball soup was good, also liked the sandwich, but I did have better pastrami sandwiches before. I think that the bread could have been toasted a bit more. My favorite item was probably the latke. Simple dish, but some very good bites with the two sauces. Staff were friendly and food came out quickly. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Latkes - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

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I've slept on Bay Area Jewish delis for no real reason. For some context, I regularly frequented a few Jewish delis while living a LA. So Saul's is a first for me in the Bay. I understand it's an institution in Berkeley and has mixed reviews with ownership changes. Saul's gives diner vibes with comfy booths. Our server was really helpful and was good for helping me confirm my order because I was stuck between a number of options. To get a good sampling I ordered a half corned beef sandwich with a side of matzo ball soup. To start we had the loc & latke. The latke was crispy and flavorful but probably could have done without the lox.The soup was fine but the real highlight was the corned beef sandwich- so much satisfaction from biting into a super fresh and tender sandwich. The bf got a turkey Reuben on rye, which was surprisingly impressive. I'd come back if I'm in the area, feeling carnivorous, and craving a hot sammie or Rueben sandwich. read more

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Classic Jewish deli and bakery. The staff is very nice, but they did ask us to repeat our order a few times and the sandwich we ordered did not come with the condiments on it we asked for. The matzo ball soup was decent, needed a lot of salt and pepper for my flavor pallet - and it was lacking the necessary chicken unfortunately. The ambiance is reminiscent of a Jewish deli on the East Coast, lots of tables and booths. I like the tall ceilings and the retro lights and the big bar. I'd come back, but there are other places to go. read more

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I've been going to Saul's for years, and I almost exclusively order the corned beef on rye and a cup of matzoh ball soup. It always satisfies that intense craving for a good, Jewish deli sandwich with loads of meat and a good matzoh ball soup! The corned beef is sliced thicker than they do add a lot of other deli say in New York or Los Angeles however I think it's just perfect super flavorful tender delicious and I love it on the Acme rye bread. I really need to try other items on the menu, I just always panic at the last minute and say "corn beef on rye, and a cup of matzoh ball soup". read more

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Service was good, especially Saturday afternoon. Outside was crowded but seating was available. Inside was nearly empty. It's been a long while since I've been to Saul's. I went because a friend mentioned she'd be headed there on the way to grab her mom. I was like...,hmmm, why not it's been a long time! I got seated right away and was looking for their delicious pickles and I wanted liver (sando!). Got both with a latke. Everything was delicious. Service was erratic. Maybe I caught them in between shifts? I know it took others longer to order. Once the food arrived, service was much improved. I swear the pickles use to be free but they're still delish. read more

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Nostalgic, Still Solid, But My "Lox" Missed the Mark It's been a minute since I've been to Saul's, and stepping back in felt like visiting an old friend. The deli vibe is classic Berkeley, cozy booths, busy energy, and that familiar hum of conversation that makes you want to linger. I ordered the Bagels and Lox on an Everything Bagel, and while it looked gorgeous, it wasn't quite lox. There was no salt-cured flavor at all, more like regular salmon; which was a letdown for the price. The texture was buttery and fresh, but the portion felt light; the menu said 2 ounces, and it looked every bit of that (maybe less). The toppings needed a little love. The white onions threw me at first, but they were sweet, so that balanced out. The cucumber slices were too thick and should've been on the side. And the capers? Cute on top until they went rolling everywhere after the first bite. My dining companion ordered the Corned Beef Gretchen, and that's where Saul's shines. It was meaty, tender, and perfectly layered on soft bread. The fries were golden and crisp, absolutely worth adding as a side. Saul's still delivers that neighborhood comfort and nostalgia. I'll definitely be back, but next time I'll skip the "lox" and try something new. read more

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Saul's is a long double-wide restaurant with a delicatessen near the front, and both outdoor and indoor seating. At 9:30am on a Sunday (Oct 2025), I was seated quickly indoors with a prompt cup of good strong hot black coffee and a menu. And within minutes i was able to place my order with the attentive staff. With a page-long menu from hash to flatbread to eggs to bagels to challah to salmon and more, I was set on shakshouka: a poached egg deep in thick rich steaming savory seasoned cumin-laced tomato sauce, with sour cream and spicy deep-green zhoug cilantro-paste, and of course fresh hot pita. It was a deep dive into Levant flavors. A lovely satisfying breakfast. Staff were friendly and service was quick. Street parking was not diccicult to find nearby. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - This is the only view of the long wide room that I took without having to edit out too many families. It's a popular place! - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

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It's St. Paddy's Day and I brought a friend who has never been here. He has it on his place to eat. Of course on St Paddy's Day, who serves a mean corned beef. It would have been ideal to have corned beef and cabbage so the sandwich will have to do. For myself, it has been a while since my last visit. Today I had the corned beef revenge with a side green salad (which is an extra $2.50), and ice tea. It was a nice warm day so we sat on the parklet. The drinks came first and the food followed shortly afterwards. The side salad with vinaigrette dressing was crispy and refreshing. The Reuben was warm with a mount of corned beef slices and Russian dressing. A little mustard completed my sandwich. Service was friendly and efficient. read more

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This place has been here forever and has always been a fun place to eat. I got the falafel platter for $18 and it was good. Nothing awesome but I would eat again. The highlight was the freshly baked pita. The service was good. read more

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Saul's is a classic Jewish diner in Berkeley that carries all the traditional favorites like Lox & bagels, Reuben Sandwiches, matzo, and a variety of brunch style items. The staff was extremely nice and I enjoyed interacting with them. I ended up ordering the Reuben, half corned beef and half pastrami. They gave a generous portion of meat and all around great quality Reuben. I preferred the corned beef over the pastrami but both with good. Look forward to coming back to try the other food items. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Half Pastrami Reuben Half Corned Beef Reuben - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

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We have loved Saul's for years. We ordered several sandwiches with the youngest of our group ordering pancakes, which she enjoyed eating. Two of our group ordered the half sandwich and soup. There were at least 5 soup options and both individuas ordered matzoball soup. The matzo ball reminded me of the dumplings I make for chicken and dumplings.. The broth was not as rich as I remember, but the matzoball was delicious, soft and fluffy. The half sandwiches were roast beef on sourdough bread and the other was pastrami on rye. The two individuals who ordered a whole pastrami sandwich had theirs on sourdough bread and one had their bread toasted. I want to mention our waiters, who were fantastic and so helpful! They added to the great experience we had at Saul's. As our meal came to an end, we bought the chocolate covered coconut macaroons. Some of the edges were crispy. The macaroons were dipped in chocolate which takes the macaroons to another level of deliciousness. Having said that, the previous way the macaroons were made were bigger and the outside of the macaroons were crispier. What a great way to end a meal!! We will be back!! read more

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A few vegan options More vegetation options are available. Pita Yuba and fries. Instead of the normal falafel option this was a nice change of pace. Could have done without french fries in the sandwich. A decent sandwich and fries helped fill up the belly. Surprised to find at least a few vegan options for sandwiches and appetizers. Ate outside but the yellow jackets weren't much fun for many tables. Able to finish without getting bitten. Plenty of seating spaces inside and outside and busy for Friday lunch hours. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Pita Yuba with extra fries - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

Cute restaurant! Friendly people. Prices weren't too bad and the food was so good! We sat outside and the weather was really nice and food came out quickly! They have a lot of options! After we finished eating, we think they forgot we were outside because they never came to check in on us or ask if we were finished, we ended up going inside to pay after an hour but it was nice to sit outside! read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Tuna Salad - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

Always great food. As always parking is a challenge. The parking spots in front of Saul's were taken so we drove a little farther down the lane and found a parallel parking spot available. It went on June 28, 2025, Saturday around 6 or 7 pm. We though they'd be overflowing with customers. To our happy surprise there wasn't a line out the door and we got a table. No waiting. We were asked if we wanted a table up front or in the back. I realize now that it was warmer in the back as they left the front door open. It was a little chilly, but not too bad. We were seated at a table up front. Half booth and half chair one table away from the window so it had a nice view. About half way through our meal they opened the shades. My guess is the sun was glaring in earlier so they closed the shades. We were seated and given menus. A drink menu and a food menu. Quickly we were met by our server who provided us with cold water, no ice. Our server was very friendly and took our drink order and then he asked if we were ready to order. We shared the Reuben with coleslaw. He suggested we get it on Rye bread which was our intention and he said the coleslaw was ordered by hands down more people then the coleslaw. So we ordered perfect. The Reuben according to my husband is the best he's every had. The meat was so tender and there was no fat, which is one of my pet peeves. I loved the Ruben to. It was piled high with Pastrami, kraut, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing. I love how they toasted the bread. We loved our waiter. He was fun and honest and helpful. We also had dessert. We wanted the chocolate Babka Slice, but they were out. Last time they were out of our first 3 choices of desserts. We settled for the Chocolate and Apricot Rugelach. I loved them both. I really loved the Chocolate and then we had the Apricot too. I know they are small, but we have small appitites. It was nice that the waiter let us order one of them, he gave us a knife to split it and then let us order another one. I really wanted a third one, but resisted. The Apricot is sweeter. They are not hard which is what I expected. They were soft and flakey. I was told they are good with morning coffee. I agree they would be perfect any time of day for a sweet pastry snack. We'll be back again next time we're in the area. Hopefully they will have the Babka slices in stock next time we come. I'll probably order the Rueben again and maybe if I'm hungry I can get the Lakas (potato pancakes) too as I love them with sour cream and apple sauce. My husband didn't want them this time as they looked too crispy, but that's how I like them. read more

Sooooo... I ordered take out the other day and I have to say that it was different than i had expected and I was a little disappointed. I called the restaurant and talked to the manager, Sam. He took care of the problem quickly by replacing my order and giving me some pistachio halva to make up for it. I continue to be a happy customer. Very good customer service. Thanks! read more

I had Saul's do all the food for my Passover Seder and every dish was a hit. The brisket tzimmes and obviously the matzo ball soup were standouts. Their homemade matzo was super tasty, especially with some chopped chicken livers spread on. I love the atmosphere inside the restaurant too, but definitely consider having them cater your Seder. read more

The falafel pita was amazing. I sampled some of the desserts as well. The warmed baklava was *chefs kiss*. Do not miss out on the hamantashen!! I wanted to get a bunch to go. Everyone here seemed like a die hard fan. Comfy seating and cute outdoor area. Would definitely recommend. Everyone that helped us was helpful and respectful! read more

So very yummy! Great service, it was super busy but we got seated hella fast. Will be going back. Highly recommended!

My wife and I were visiting family in Berkley and my son suggested that my wife and I come here for some Deli. We are NY / Long Island and have the best Deli's anywhere (remember, we all have our own opinions.) I was not coming here expecting to walk into Katz's or one of my local spots. It was a quick drive downtown and parking was a snap. The shop is located in a strip mail and there is plenty of parking. We walked in and were immediately greeted by the smiling hostess welcoming us to Sauls. She brought us to our seat and our waiter immediately followed up with us. Sine we had planned our entire order ahead of time it made it very simple. It's pretty much always the same for us. 1/2 sandwich and a soup. This really is a cool venue Great wall hangings and I just loved the old pictures. They all reminded me of my old photo albums. Made for a cool, comfortable ambiance. It was an easy decision: Cup of Matzoh Ball Soup - Very tasty with a large fluffy matzaoh ball and some pieces of chicken. Pastrami on Sour Dough - Really delicious pastrami. Plenty of meat, Perfect for a tasty sandwich. Our waiter was extremely attentive to us and made sure our glasses were always filled. Overall a great experience. KUDOs to the team at Sauls. read more

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Saul's is in Berkeley and was close-ish to where I lived when I was a student, but I never actually went while I was a student because it was a little too far north, and distances seem longer when you're always measuring them from campus. My first time there was years later. Most recently, I revisited it for an early brunch before a day of gaming at Victory Point. This was partly sparked by me realizing it was Jewish Heritage month after a few weeks of going to exclusively Asian restaurants for AAPI month. Saul's is mostly a Jewish deli vibe, but also serves some Israeli and middle eastern dishes. The pastrami sandwiches are always good, but the last time I went, I tried the Malawach ("that's my favorite!" - our waiter), and it was maybe one of my favorite breakfasty entrees I've ever had. The lamination of the bread reminded me of Southeast Asian style roti / Chinese scallion pancakes, and all the sauces added a nice depth of flavor. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Blintz - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

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I stopped by while I was in Berkeley and was told this is a staple in the area. One of the only places for good local Jewish deli food, and while it's not meant to blow people away it definitely gives a comfort food vibe. The restaurant has diner style seating with tables and booths and looks like many Jewish delis I've been to. It really reminded me of a spot where I grew up in Ohio! They have a breakfast and lunch menu and the prices are definitely Berkeley prices. I opted for the half sandwich and soup with an upgrade to get the matzo ball. I'm not going to lie, I was surprised when it came out and the soup was a little side soup size. The flavor on the corned beef sandwich and the soup was great though. Although at $16.95 with an extra $3 to upgrade to matzo ball soup.... We're not in the Midwest anymore. At home I could have gotten a full, loaded sandwich and a whole bowl of soup for the same price. I get it though, this is more of a specialty out here. The service was ok, we went a while without our waters or coffee being refilled and they serve the sodas from bottles which is super cute but I take means no free refills. I was happy to enjoy this comfort food, especially because I can't find it in Sacramento where I'm living now. Worth it as a special treat and flavors from home. read more

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I have been here a few times for their pastrami sandwich's. They are really good and fresh! The breakfast is ok. The waffle is good! The place is always busy, so make sure you have enough time to wait to be seated. The service is great and the place is clean. read more

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Delicious Jewish deli in Berkeley! This is a very popular restaurant so prepare for a wait. They have a showcase of baked goods at the front. We were a big group & I sampled everyone's dish. There was not one dish that stood out but I enjoyed them all & they give generous portions. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

Went here on a Sunday around noon. Got checked in rather quickly and we got a table out front. A good area of seating is available out front. I had the turkey sandwich. Pretty basic, nothing impressive or amazing. I ordered an Arnold Palmer but got iced tea. Our waitresses disappeared for a while so I had to ask someone else for the drink i had originally asked for. I didnt see our waitress until we were ready for the check. read more

The food's pretty grub. And the service is very good. Courteous and fast. The pastrami is awesome though a few pieces can be a little dry. But the half sando, half soup is a nice meal. Add a couple bucks if you want the famous matzo ball soup. Comes with slaw inside so remember to tell them to put it on the side if you're not into wet pastrami sandwiches. The patty melt is tasty but dang, super oily. The whole thing turns out wet cuz of the grease. Caramelized onions tip the scales for this one. Comes with side of slaw or potato salad. I haven't drank here but they have a full bar. Also some nice pastries. Gets very busy in the weekends but weekdays are cool. Be prepared to spend more than you think. But it's a good meal and in a good atmosphere. Nice area of town to walk around before or after you feast. Parking is generally available. Meters in front but I usually look on the side streets there they have two hour free parking. read more

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Service was friendly and efficient. Food quality has diminished since my last visit. Sandwiches have shrunk, prices have not. The Restraunt looks less clean and a bit run down. Not the same experience I've been accustomed to over the years. $30 for soup and 1/2 sandwich with an iced tea is getting to be a bit much for so-so quality. Of course I'll be going back but next time with my fingers crossed hoping it won't be the last time. read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen serves the best Jewish food I've ever had. The standout is the Pastrami Reuben, which is an absolute must. The pastrami feels like it almost melts in your mouth with how well the ingredients work together, and it comes with a side of potato salad that's also delicious. I also ordered the latkes (great appetizer) along with a half and half sandwich. The matzo ball soup was a comforting classic. I enjoyed the corned beef half sandwich as well, but I wouldn't order it again simply because I would go for the Pastrami Reuben in the future. I visited on a lively Sunday afternoon and had a short wait to be seated. Service was solid, and the food is well worth any wait. read more

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1st timer here and OH MY is exactly what my taste buds were saying, I had the Brisket Dip with the potato salad and my better half had the Pastrami on Rye, we gave each other a half of each others sandwich. I will get to the sandwich, but the potato salad, HOLY MOLY, DELICIOUS!! After taking a bite of my Brisket Dip and then dipping it into the Au Ju, topping it off with some potato salad, my TASTES BUDS were just as happy as I was, doing the happy dance. The service was impeccable, I didn't catch the young man's name that helped us, but he was very very helpful, we told him it was our first time in there, he suggested a lot of good options and we settled for what we ordered. When you walk in the entrance the ambiance all around was very CUTE! Felt like walking in to my Grandma's kitchen, that's what the ambiance was giving. If you're ever in the area and have a taste for some good eats, I highly recommend Saul's read more

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At around 2 PM on a Sunday, there was no line. We got seated immediately outdoors in a cute patio. Service was pretty quick, as our orders were taken right away and food arrived in about 10 minutes. I got the cheese blintz, which was delicious. The crepe was so soft and fluffy, and felt amazing to bite into. They were filled with a generous amount of cheese filling, which was so warm, rich, and decadant. The blintz was so flavorful that it didn't even need the dips on the side. I did try it with the jam, which was so fresh and fruity! The food was delicious and I will definitely be coming back for more. However, be aware that the dishes are quite pricey. (~$25 per, not that bug, sandwich?) read more

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My family loves Saul's so much! The food is interesting and delicious, and they have so many great vegetarian options -- including the mushroom reuben, so tasty with sauteed mushrooms in place of pastrami. The staff is professional and friendly. And there is lots of outdoor seating (with heat lamps if necessary), in case you bring your dog along. read more

Great time at Saul's! I ordered the Soup & Half Sandwich (matzo ball soup & pastrami on rye) & shared the Latkes & Pickles. My friends got the Shakshouka and Saul's Deli Hash. Fire soup and sandwich. Loved the honey mustard. It paired great with the Latkes. Fulfilled my cravings. Cute interior and exterior seating. Relatively fast service for the crowdedness. I can't wait to come back and try more items on the menu. read more

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Disappointing Reuben. We took our order to-go, so maybe it sat for too long? It only takes 10 min to get home, but it was so dry. It was all meat and just didn't hit the spot for a Reuben sandwich. Super disappointed because this has been on the list for a while! read more

Was at Sauls on 24th..march...late afternoon 4pm..nice young lady asked us to sit where ever we wanted... Found nice booth on right side of place My grandma ordered her regular ...1/2 cornbeef on rye and her to die for matzo ball soup. Our waiter ANGUS, pleasant young man was fabulous. Very professional and respectful. I had the humus with little oil...mmmm was yummy. Always a treat to eat here. ANGUS patience and kind attitude made granny feel special Ty ANGUS...UR THE BESTEST (as tigger would say) read more

Saul's Restaurant & Delicatessen - ANGUS---Mr best waiter at SAULS/ALBANY CA. and grannie- coming down with dementia. : ( - Delis Near Me - Berkeley, California

I went a few weeks ago for a family get together. I hadn't been in many years, now I remember why Food - 3.0 stars. My cousin asked for the bread to be toasted on her sandwich, waiter assured her that it is toasted. Sandwich came out with cold bread. My pastrami sandwich was kind of dry. The rest of the group weren't wowed with their food. Service - 2.5 same cousin had ordered a specialty soda, which never came out. I had to remind the server (almost at the end of the meal by this point). He brought out a sample of a different custom soda. We had to ask for the toasted bread, which he seemed to not get even though there had been a conversation about it. He asked me if I was done eating while I had my fork in my hand and was chewing, and a half a sandwich on my plate. Adios Saul's read more