With its range of specialty coffee shops and intriguing farm-to-table restaurants, the Gourmet Ghetto is considered the birthplace of the state’s cuisine. The bohemian and alternative district is home to myriad socially aware establishments that use locally farmed products and eco-friendly methods. Visit the Gourmet Ghetto to get a taste for Berkeley as you try the culinary specialties in the restaurants lining this street.
Stroll between the trees of the charming boulevard at the center of the neighborhood. Enjoy delicious pastries or stop for a coffee made from ethically sourced beans as you watch people go by in this lively culinary haven.
Notice the extensive preparation and the level of perfectionism involved in the creation of dishes in this renowned foodie hub. Chic Chez Panisse has been an iconic fixture on the main street since 1971. Try the pizza and cheeses at the Cheese Board Collective and sip hot beverages from Peet’s Coffee, which dates back to the 1960s.
Purchase some of the ready-made meals to take home and enjoy with your friends or family. Beside the restaurants are shops specializing in fashion, jewelry and art. Walk to the Gourmet Ghetto West, where you’ll find another line of specialty cafés and restaurants.
The area is also referred to as the Gourmet Gulch and North Shattuck. It was given the name of Gourmet Ghetto by a comedian in the 1970s. Note that the name of the area is now considered offensive by some and it has been removed from many of the publicity banners.
The Gourmet Ghetto is in the center of the North Berkeley district, a little east of San Francisco. From the center of Berkeley, walk north for about 15 minutes to reach the heart of the neighborhood. While in the area, make sure to see surrounding attractions such as Live Oak Park, the Berkeley Rose Garden and the University of California, Berkeley.
