The abundance of cute, little cafes in Berkeley is amazing. I never really appreciated this until recently, but now, working in Fort Worth where one is hard pressed to find anything beyond Starbucks.
So, when I got an opportunity to go back to Berkeley over our Winter layoff at the Ballet Company where I work, and I thought I'd do a little write up about a couple of my favorite cafes.
Elmwood Cafe is an new one for me. They opened not too long ago, in the space previously occupied by Ozzy's Soda Fountain, a much loved local institution that sadly went under a couple years ago. I went here with my sister for an afternoon game of cards and chai lattes. They serve their chai in large handleless mugs, almost like bowls, which is oh so satisfying to sip from on a chilly Nor Cal winter afternoon. I have yet to eat here, but everything looked totally amazing. Being the biscuit freak I am, I can't wait to try their insanely flaky and delectable looking biscuits! For an added bonus, many of their ingredients are organic and sourced locally.
Another favorite is Nabolom Bakery. Nabolom, is perhaps the most "Berkeley" cafe of all Berkeley cafes. A worker owned collective, Nabolom takes it's name from ancient Mayan language and means "house of the jaguar". Nabalom also composts 90% of it's waste, and clearly lists which of it's menu options are vegan, wheat free, and gluten free, making it an easy place for people of just about any diet to eat at.
It's a cozy, friendly place. Great for informal brainstorming sessions, studying, and just relaxing. Last time I visited a homeless man drew and gave my sister and I this picture. Everything I've had here has been delicious, but I especially recommend their croissants, fresh, flaky, and plenty buttery!
oooh we'll have to make this a new habbit: chai and cards at every cafe in town. Love and MISS you already.
ReplyDeletewhen i come to berkeley we're going to nabolom
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