Welcome to Berkeley Cafe
Berkeley Cafe stands out as a casual gem in Raleigh, offering a laid-back vibe and an inviting atmosphere. Located at 428 S Dawson St, this spot serves up straightforward bar food alongside an impressive selection of drinks. With local bands regularly gracing the stage, it’s a hub for live music enthusiasts. Quick, friendly service complements this dive bar experience, making it ideal for solo diners or groups catching up over bites and brews. Prices fall comfortably between $10 and $20, ensuring a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a night out, Berkeley Cafe welcomes all with open arms.
Popular dishes
Restaurant Gallery
About
Berkeley Cafe finds its home at the corner of S Dawson St and boasts a cozy, laid-back charm. The location embraces a diverse clientele with open arms under its warm, inviting lights. It's more than just a restaurant; it's a vibrant community hub, showcasing talent during open mic nights and band performances. This cozy dive bar invites everyone from music lovers to foodies, and the lively walls pulsate with the energy of local artists. I appreciate how accessible it is with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun. While the spot buzzes, it also provides areas to unwind. Reservations are accepted, a helpful feature for those looking to snag a prime table on a busy Saturday night. Parking varies, with a mix of free street options and paid lots nearby, which makes planning a visit a breeze.
Working Hours
- SundayOpen
- MondayOpen
- TuesdayOpen
- WednesdayOpen
- ThursdayOpen
- FridayOpen
- SaturdayOpen
What People Say
Most Liked
The chicken tender plate receives consistent rave reviews for its made-to-order freshness and seasoning, appealing to both taste buds and convenience. The selection of local beers stands out, giving beer enthusiasts a chance to discover new favorites. Live music transforms the space into an energetic gathering spot, perfect for enjoying a laid-back night out. Seasoned staff are high on the list of favorites, with friendly bartenders and servers who bring a smile to every interaction. The outdoor seating offers a comfortable spot for warm evenings, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a drink in the fresh air. Fans especially enjoy the wide variety of sandwiches, with options ranging from turkey applejack to the killer Philly cheese steak.
Most Disliked
Some patrons feel that the place can get too crowded, especially on Saturday nights when the energy peaks. The kitchen can sometimes lag during peak hours, particularly when bands are playing. While the atmosphere is generally a plus, a few have mentioned that noise levels can become overwhelming during live music events, which can detract from conversation. A handful of visitors have pointed out that preferred items may run out if you arrive too late in the evening, especially popular dishes like the fried banana peppers. Additionally, some diners feel the need for more variety on the children's menu, as selections remain limited.
Reviews
John H.
Always enjoy the Berkeley. I miss the old location but the new location will do just fine. Alex is always friendly and helpful. Bartenders were super busy as it was Hopscotch, but they still managed good service. Mostly usually there for music and drinks... so no food review, but the food always looks great and everybody says it's great. Good drink prices. Good selection of beer.
Sharon L.
Cool laid back place for open mic, friendly staff and David was great open mic host. A good variety of performers.
Damien R.
Stopped in with a buddy of mine for a quick bite before a concert at Red Hat Amphitheater and was glad we did! We both got the chicken tender plate with fries, and really enjoyed them. They were made to order and fresh, and were seasoned well. The fries were also really good. The waitress/bartender was also very polite and friendly. Will definitely stop by again if I ever return to the area.
Jennifer K.
Awesome little dive bar, very quaint atmosphere but wow the sandwiches were killer. Stellar local vibes, everyone was chill and friendly. Upset I've been living right next to it all this time without stopping by. Fried banana peppers ruled, way better than fried pickles
Joshua W.
Great location that supports diversity and inclusive atmosphere. GREAT service, staff is a positive, happy server who is attentive and kind-hearted. High recommend taking a stop here if you are in the area! Our server Karissa was outstanding and deserves a huge shout out!
Neal E.
Recently reopened in their new location. Food and staffing in good shape already, though they have yet to get the front sign up. Fresh made food is creative with the fresh chips being excellent! Lots of convenient parking options in the city deck and surface lots.
Brian S.
Nice hole in the wall restaurant. The staff is friendly and the soup bowls are huge. If you're around the Amphitheater or Convention Center, it's a great place to grab a bite.