Eat well in Berkeley for under €15 a plate: the places locals on a budget actually use.

Cheap eats worth seeking out

Tacos Sinaloa

$ MexicanDowntown

Michelin Bib Gourmand tacos for under $12 a head. Fresh tortillas, carne asada, lengua and vegan fillings. Open until 2am on weekends. Best value in Berkeley.

Vik's Chaat

$ Indian street foodFourth Street

Michelin Guide counter-service chaat: papdi chaat, pani puri, samosas, bhel puri and dahi puri. Counter order, token system. Under $15 for a full lunch.

Long Life Vegi House

$ Vegetarian ChineseDowntown

Berkeley's oldest vegetarian restaurant. Large portions at budget prices. Lunch specials under $12 include rice, soup and a main. Operating since 1970.

Cancun Sabor Mexicano

$ MexicanDowntown

Farm-to-table taqueria. Handmade organic tortillas, vegan al pastor and vegetable burritos. A full burrito under $13. Best plant-based Mexican in Berkeley.

Top Dog

$ Hot dogs and sausagesDowntown

Under $6 per sausage at Berkeley's institution since 1966. Bratwurst, knockwurst, hot link, Polish and beef dogs on a flat-top. Open until 3am on weekends.

Gregoire

$$ French takeoutGourmet Ghetto

Michelin Guide French takeout. Potato puffs, a rotating sandwich and dessert bring lunch under $20. The best quality-to-price French food in the East Bay.

Cheese Board Pizza (Slice)

$ Vegetarian pizzaGourmet Ghetto

Cheese Board pizza by the slice: two pieces cost $7-9. Worker-owned, always vegetarian, always seasonal. The best food value in the Gourmet Ghetto.

Book food experiences in Berkeley

Berkeley Food & Counter Culture Tour★ 5.0 (1)

Guided tour · 2h 30m

Berkeley Food & Counter Culture Tour

Explore Berkeley's North Shattuck neighborhood (formerly the Gourmet Ghetto) and UC Berkeley on a guided walking tour. Enjoy food stops, see the Campanile, and visit t...

from$79 Check dates

See all 20 bookable experiences in Berkeley

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