Eat

Chez Panisse

Chez Panisse is the origin of California Cuisine, and still is the best representation of the style that focuses on local produce in season. Named "Best Restaurant in America" in 2001 by Gourmet Magazine and is one of the entries in the book 1000 Places To See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz. Fixed price menus downstairs ($175), which usually require a reservation a month in advance. It's worth it, though. The cafe upstairs offers more variety in à la carte form, and it's easier to get a table. Still, if your parents are paying, try to book downstairs.

coffee

Address: 1517 Shattuck Ave
Getting there: at Vine
Hours: Check website for hours
Price: $175 and up
Website: chezpanisse.com (opens in a new tab)

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Listing from Wikivoyage: Berkeley, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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