North Berkeley, 3-Hour Food Tour

Discover the renowned attractions of The Gourmet Ghetto through the lens of seasoned industry professionals. Explore the esteemed establishments such as Saul's Jewish Deli, Peet's Coffee's flagship location, and The Cheese Board Collective alongside other notable spots like The Local Butcher Shop.

North Berkeley, known affectionately as the "Gourmet Ghetto," has been at the forefront of California cuisine and farm-to-table dining since the 1970s. This bustling neighborhood, once renowned for its pioneering culinary establishments, now boasts an array of established and emerging food-related enterprises. Among them stands Chez Panisse, founded by Alice Waters, which catapulted the region into global culinary recognition during that decade.

Today, North Berkeley remains dedicated to providing some of the country’s finest seasonal and organic fare while adhering to sustainable business practices that enhance the well-being of local farmers, restaurant workers, and the broader food system. Visitors can explore this vibrant culinary landscape with the assistance of seasoned food enthusiasts, including award-winning food writers, culinary professionals, former food television personalities, and restaurateurs. These knowledgeable guides will take you on a tour of the neighborhood’s most prestigious spots, starting with the historic Jewish deli and restaurant, Saul’s, where authentic house-made pastrami sandwiches await. Additionally, patrons can indulge in a selection of artisan sodas there or enjoy a slice of Peet’s Coffee, a staple of the area, paired with a gourmet cheese platter from The Cheese Board Collective. For those interested in sustainable meat production, visitors can visit The Local Butcher Shop, where they can learn firsthand about the process of whole-animal butchery.

Post-dinner, guests may find themselves overwhelmed by the abundance of culinary delights available in North Berkeley. However, this delightful exploration of the neighborhood’s culinary scene does not necessitate planning a full meal, as one likely finds themselves savoring every bite and experiencing the essence of North Berkeley’s culinary identity.