Best Coffee Shops Near UC Berkeley Students Love

Coffee and college go hand in hand, and few places take their coffee as seriously as Berkeley. With UC Berkeley at its heart, the city is packed with cafés perfect for cramming before an exam, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a great cup. Here are the best coffee shops near UC Berkeley that students keep coming back to.

1. Caffè Strada – The Campus Classic

No list of Berkeley cafés is complete without Caffè Strada. Right on the path to campus on the Southside, it’s famous for its spacious outdoor patio shaded by trees and warmed by heat lamps. It’s the go-to spot for studying outdoors, meeting friends, or spending a long, sunny afternoon. Pro tip: arrive early to grab a shaded table it fills up fast.

Best for: Outdoor studying and social energy.

2. 1951 Coffee Company – Coffee with a Cause

1951 Coffee Company is more than a great café it’s a nonprofit that trains and employs refugees and asylum seekers. The coffee is excellent, the space is bright and welcoming, and you can feel good about every cup. It’s a Berkeley favorite that reflects the city’s community-minded spirit.

Best for: Quality coffee and supporting a good cause.

3. Brewed Awakening – The Northside Study Haven

A bit of a walk to the quieter Northside of campus, Brewed Awakening is worth the trip. With long communal tables, wooden chairs, and a cozy, homey atmosphere, it’s a beloved study spot, especially during midterms and finals when Southside cafés get packed.

Best for: Serious study sessions and a calmer vibe.

4. Souvenir Coffee Co. – Seasonal Flavors

Just south of campus on Claremont Avenue, Souvenir Coffee Co. is known for solid coffee and fun seasonal syrups like lavender, sage, and pumpkin. They also serve sandwiches, bagels, and pastries, making it a great spot to settle in for a study break with a snack.

Best for: Specialty flavored drinks and light bites.

5. Peet’s Coffee (Original Location) – A Berkeley Institution

Berkeley is the birthplace of Peet’s Coffee, and the original North Shattuck location is a piece of coffee history (it even has a small museum). If you want to experience where it all began, this is the spot. It’s a little north of campus but a worthwhile pilgrimage for any coffee lover.

Best for: Coffee history and a classic cup.

6. Artís Coffee – For the Coffee Purist

Over on Fourth Street, Artís Coffee takes its craft seriously, focusing on the full “seed-to-sip” journey. The drinks are top quality, and the atmosphere is modern and calm. It’s a bit farther from campus, but ideal when you want a more refined coffee experience.

Best for: Coffee connoisseurs who appreciate the details.

7. Sodoi Coffee Tasting House – Bold and Unique

Located on Durant Avenue near the Southside, Sodoi offers a strong, distinctive coffee blend in both its lattes and espresso drinks. If you like your coffee bold and a little different from the chains, it’s a great find close to campus.

Best for: A unique, strong brew between classes.

How to Pick Your Go-To Café

With so many great options, the right café depends on your mood:

• Need to lock in and study? Head to Brewed Awakening or 1951 Coffee Company.
• Want sunshine and people-watching? Caffè Strada is unbeatable.
• Chasing the best possible cup? Try Artís Coffee or the original Peet’s.
• Looking for fun seasonal drinks? Souvenir Coffee Co. has you covered.

The fun part is trying them all and finding your personal favorite.

Living the Berkeley Café Life

One of the best things about being a student or young professional in Berkeley is having a great café on nearly every block. If you’re hoping to live close to campus and all these coffee spots, Raj Properties can help you find the right place. Check out our apartments near UC Berkeley campus to start your search.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best coffee shop near UC Berkeley for studying?

Brewed Awakening on the Northside and 1951 Coffee Company are both popular for studying thanks to their seating, atmosphere, and reliable Wi-Fi. Caffè Strada is the top pick if you prefer studying outdoors.

Where can I find the original Peet’s Coffee in Berkeley?

The original Peet’s Coffee is on North Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley and even includes a small museum about the brand’s history.

Which coffee shop near UC Berkeley has outdoor seating?

Caffè Strada is famous for its large, shaded outdoor patio with heat lamps, making it a favorite for outdoor studying and socializing.

Are there coffee shops near UC Berkeley with a social mission?

Yes 1951 Coffee Company is a nonprofit that trains and employs refugees and asylum seekers, in addition to serving excellent coffee.