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The Ultimate Guide To Food Based On Your Berkeley Polling Place

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at UC Berkeley chapter.

Looking for reasons to go out to vote other than exercising your civic duty or voicing your opinions in politics? Even though that should be enough to motivate you to get out the door and to your Berkeley polling place on November 6th, 2018 to participate in this year’s midterm elections, we all know that food motivates action like nothing else. So if you’re looking for more reasons to vote this November, here are the best food options near your Berkeley polling place that you can go to after casting your ballot! Are you voting by mail? Consider this your guide to the best food in Berkeley, and choose a place to stop by after dropping your ballot in the mailbox.

Not sure where your polling place is? Find your polling place here. Want to know more about what we’ll be voting on this November? Find out what you need to know about Berkeley candidates and propositions here.

All Souls Episcopal Parish Church: Crepevine, Open 7:30 am – 11 pm

Crepevine is a Berkeley classic. It serves a variety of sweet and savory crêpes in addition to traditional American eats and it is conveniently located only two blocks west of All Souls Church.

American Baptist Seminary of the West: Pasta Bene, Open 11 am –10 pm

Pasta Bene is a hidden gembehind an unassuming storefront. On a less-trafficked part of Telegraph lies a quality Italian restaurant worth checking out after voting. Order an expertly-made thin crust pizza or a huge plate of pasta and enjoy the casual atmosphere.

Berkeley Adult School: Café Leila, Open 7 am – 6 pm

Weather permitting, head over to Café Leila to enjoy the well-kept garden and patio space after voting. Grab a healthy post-voting meal featuring organic ingredients or re-energize on your way to the polls with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. If you’re lucky, there’ll be live jazz music to keep your spirits up on Election Day as you head to or from your polling place.

Berkeley Corporation Yard: Taqueria Monte Cristo, Open 9:30 am – 12 pm

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Head a couple of blocks over from Berkeley Corporation Yard to Taqueria Monte Cristo, which serves classic Mexican fare in a colorful environment. Enjoy the airy, courtyard-like décor while devouring a plate of tacos dressed with fresh salsa from the salsa bar after voting.

Berkeley Covenant Church: Gioia Pizzeria, Open 11 am – 8 pm

Just as the midterm elections bring together Americans of all regions and backgrounds to engage in a single task—casting a ballot—Gioia Pizzeria brings together classic New York and Californian cuisines. Gioia serves classic, thin, New York-style pizza slices topped with distinctly Californian toppings like kale and locally grown vegetables. Celebrate the ultimate American act of voting with a unique slice of pizza after exercising your civic duty at your Berkeley polling place.

Berkeley Fire Station No. 2: Bonchon, Open 11:30 am – 9 pm

Bonchon is located just across the street from Berkeley Fire Station No. 2, making it the perfect place for a post-voting meal or snack. Indulge in the signature Korean fried chicken that’s made to order—choose between the spicy, soy garlic, or a mixture of both sauces depending on your mood, or choose from the array of traditional Korean dishes offered.

Berkeley Fire Station No. 3: Nabolom Bakery Pizzeria, Open 7 am – 7 pm

After casting your ballot at Berkeley Fire Station 3, head on over to Nabolom Bakery Pizzeria, a co-op café conveniently located right next door. Enjoy a freshly made slice of pizza, a cup of coffee, or a house-made pastry after you cast your vote.

Berkeley Fire Station No. 4: Zachary’s Chicago Pizza, Open 11 am – 9:30 pm

Delight in a freshly made deep-dish or thin-crust pizza at Zachary’s after casting your ballot at Berkeley Fire Station 4. Located just a couple of blocks north of your polling place, Zachary’s is the perfect spot to stop by for a quick slice after voting. Whatever your pizza preferences are, Zachary’s surely has something for you—even if pizza isn’t your thing, grab a quick side or salad and stop by to enjoy the unique artwork gracing the walls.

Berkeley Fire Station No. 6: Acme Bread, Open 8 am – 6 pm

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While Acme Bread’s options are mostly limited to bread and bread-related products, that doesn’t mean it’s not a great place to stop by after voting. Pick up a whole-grain loaf to pair with your dinner or grab a quick roll for the go. Acme Bread is a Berkeley staple for good reason, and you won’t want to miss out on picking up a freshly made artisan loaf.

Berkeley Fire Station No. 7: Cheeseboard Pizza, Open 11:30 am – 3 pm and 4:30 pm – 8 pm

This polling place is in a more residential part of Berkeley, so food options in its direct vicinity are more limited, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate your civic participation at somewhere a little farther away. Cheeseboard is relatively close and is a quintessential Berkeley establishment. Check back to see what type of pizza they’ll be serving on the 6th.

Berkeley Friends Church: Himalayan Flavors, Open 11:30 am – 3 pm and 5 pm – 9:30 pm

Head down Sacramento Street and onto University Avenue from your Berkeley polling place to Himalayan Flavors, a restaurant serving up exactly that—dishes featuring Himalayan flavors. Try out its popular goat curry for a great Election Day meal. Enjoy the chic, welcoming décor and the delicious and creative food options.

Berkeley Friends Meeting: Nico’s 1508, Open 11 am – 10 pm

Located only a block from Berkeley Friends Meeting, Nico’s 1508 serves classic, locally sourced American food. Enjoy the crisp November 6th weather by dining on the patio.

Berkeley Masjid Staff Room: Mount Everest, Open 11:30 am – 3 pm and 5 pm – 9:30 pm

Mount Everest stands out, as its name would imply. You’re greeted with warm, cozy lighting upon entering and made to feel at home with an array of traditional Nepalese dishes full of a variety of flavors. If voting isn’t the high point of your day, a meal at Mount Everest certainly will be.

Berkeley Public Library West Branch: Everett & Jones Barbeque, Open 11 am – 9 pm

Few things are as American as a plate of classic barbeque food is. Head over to Everett & Jones Barbeque and enjoy freshly smoked brisket or ribs after voting. As the best places often are, Everett & Jones is a no-nonsense, casually decorated joint that chooses to focus on the food rather than décor, making it the go-to place to stop by for a quick and filling meal on Election Day.

Berkeley Veteran’s Building: Eureka!, Open 11 am – 12 am

Walk down the street into the heart of downtown Berkeley after casting your ballot to dine or drink at Eureka!, a relatively new Berkeley restaurant serving up unique sandwiches and burgers and a wide selection of craft beers. Enjoy the chic, modern décor while devouring a plate of truffle fries or their signature bone marrow burger.

Black Repertory Group Hall: Rasa Caffe, Open 7 am – 4:30 pm

Rasa Caffe is just a block away from the Black Repertory Group Hall, making it the perfect place to grab an organic latte or housemade chai tea on Election Day. Enjoy an artisan pastry and your expertly-crafted beverage while celebrating your participation in our democracy.

Cancer Research Center: Royal Rangoon Restaurant, Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5 pm – 9:30 pm

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Head a couple of blocks North of your polling place to find Royal Rangoon, a chic eatery serving up traditional Burmese dishes. Select a beverage from its extensive wine list, settle into one of the cozy booths, and enjoy the beautiful Burmese artwork on the walls.

Center for Yoga and Spiritual Healing: Tomate Café, Open 8 am – 3 pm

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Tomate Café is the perfect spot to stop by for a quick breakfast or lunch on Election Day. Enjoy the November air and look out for some cute pups on the dog-friendly patio while enjoying classic American food. Vegan or vegetarian? Never fear, Tomate Café has options for everyone.

Christ Church East Bay: Kirala 2, Open 11 am – 9 pm

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Kirala 2 is the satellite location of Kirala, and serves grab-and-go and takeout Japanese options. Stop by here for a quick bite on your way to or from the polls and enjoy the delicious array of freshly prepared authentic Japanese foods.

City of Berkeley Old City Hall: Zabu Zabu, Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5 pm – 10 pm

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Zabu Zabu serves all-you-can-eat Japanese food in a stylish, modern environment. Reward your civic participation with endless platefuls of sushi and shabu-shabu at this restaurant, located only two blocks from where you’ll be casting your ballot.

Claremont Branch Library: Donato & Co., Open 11:30 am – 10 pm

Located just a block away from Claremont Branch Library, Donato & Co. serves some of the tastiest Italian food Berkeley has to offer. Come for the homemade pasta and unique regional Italian dishes, stay for the cozy atmosphere and chic design.

Congregation Beth El (all sides): Lo Coco’s, Open 4:30 pm – 10 pm

Lo Coco’s is both a great date-night spot and the ideal place to stop by after voting at your Berkeley polling place. Lo Coco’s has some of the best authentic Italian in Berkeley—it’s certainly on the pricier side of things, but everything is made in-house and uses top-quality ingredients. You deserve it—you just voted.

Congregation Beth Israel: Mehak Indian Cuisine, Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5 pm – 9:30 pm

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While Congregation Beth Israel is in the middle of a more residential part of Berkeley, if you’re willing to walk a couple of blocks over, you’ll find Mehak Indian Cuisine—a hidden gem in the middle of Berkeley. Traditional Indian food is served all day, with the option of a buffet at lunchtime. Go and enjoy the casual atmosphere and delicious meal after voting.

Epworth United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall: Ajanta, Open 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM – 9 PM

Located a few blocks away from Epworth Church, Ajanta is an upscale Indian restaurant that emphasizes organic, local, seasonal ingredients, making for a unique atmosphere and selection of food and wines. Ajanta is on the pricier end of things—however, you should feel comfortable splurging a bit after doing something so important.

Evangelical Bible Church of Berkeley: Kiku Sushi, Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5 – 10 pm

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Kiku Sushi is a classic Japanese restaurant serving up traditional Japanese fare in a chic, simple environment. Located only a few blocks from the Evangelical Bible Church of Berkeley, Kiku Sushi is an excellent restaurant option for a filling and delicious meal on Election Day.

Frances Albrier Community Center: Spoon Korean Bistro, Open 10 am – 10 pm

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Of course, Spoon Korean Bistro had to make the list—this is Spoon University, after all. Located a few blocks from San Pablo Park and Frances Albrier Community Center, Spoon Korean Bistro is a favorite in Berkeley. With its clean décor and variety of classic Korean food options, it’s a can’t-miss spot for a delicious post-voting meal.

Garage, Arlington Avenue: The Arlington, Open 8 am – 3 pm

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Stop by The Arlington after casting your ballot for a quick cup of coffee or a casual bite to eat. Appreciate the relaxed, unassuming environment as you enjoy your Election Day treat.

Garage, Hillcrest Road: Mitama, Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm

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Roll into Mitama after casting your ballot for high-quality, delicious sushi and Japanese small plates. Enjoy the chic, clean environment and your freshly prepared food just a couple blocks from your polling place.

Garage, Santa Barbara Road: Cactus Taqueria, Open 11 am – 9 pm

As you’ll be casting your ballot in the thick of residential North Berkeley, restaurant options are more limited, but if you head towards downtown, you’ll run into a number of great options, including Cactus Taqueria, a traditional Mexican restaurant housed in an industrial but carefully decorated space. Enjoy a number of small plates or opt for a larger entrée to celebrate your civic participation.

Harriet Tubman Community Center: Flacos, Open 11 am – 8 pm

Head down the street from the Harriet Tubman Community Center to Flacos, a Mexican restaurant serving up vegan versions of classic Mexcian dishes like tamales and pozole. Enjoy the wide range of salsa options and the colorful décor after casting your ballot. With a motto like “Feed La Revolución!” it’s an appropriately political restaurant for one of the most political days of the year.

John Muir Elementary School: Rick & Ann’s Restaurant, Open 7:30 am – 3 pm

If you’re hankering for some classic American eats after participating in the most American of activities, look no further than Rick and Ann’s, which is just a block away from John Muir. Stop by for a hearty breakfast on your way to the polls or drop in later on for a solid sandwich to reward yourself for participating in our democracy.

Lawrence Hall of Science: Bay View Café, Open 7:30 am – 3 pm

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Check out the Bay View Café, conveniently located inside the Lawrence Hall of Science. With stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and delicious homemade pastries, it’s a can’t-miss spot for you to reward yourself after casting your ballot.

LeConte Science Magnet School: Tai San Restaurant, Open 11 am – 9:30 pm

Be sure to visit Tai Sun Restaurant after casting your ballot—it serves highly-praised, delicious Chinese food for low prices in a cool, casual environment.

Liberty Hill Baptist Church: Kabana Restaurant, Open 11:30 am – 3 pm and 5 pm – 9:30 pm

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Located just down University Avenue from Liberty Hill Baptist Church, Kabana is a convenient spot for an Election Day meal. Enjoy hearty a hearty meal that draws from various regional Indian cuisines in a casual environment.

Live Oak Community Center: Kamado Sushi, Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5 pm – 9:30 pm

Walk a couple of blocks south from Live Oak Park to find Kamado Sushi, a casually chic Japanese restaurant perfect for a bite to eat at any hour. Kamado serves traditional Japanese dishes with seasonal twists and freshly caught fish. Stop by and relax in the cozy, modern restaurant and enjoy an expertly made roll or plate of teriyaki.

Longfellow School: Mo’Joe Café, Open 6:30 am – 5:30 pm

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Mo’Joe Café is the perfect place to stop to do some last-minute research before heading to the polls—enjoy the fast Wi-Fi, good coffee, and variety of quick bites before casting your ballot, or head over after voting for a quick pick-me-up.

Lutheran Church of the Cross: West Coast Pizza, Open 11 am – 1 am

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West Coast Pizza epitomizes the classic, casual pizza shop. The no-frills menu and décor leave diners free to zip in and out and focus on what they’re all there for—the pizza. Walk a couple of doors down from Lutheran Church of the Cross and visit this quintessential Berkeley pizza shop after casting your ballot, and enjoy a quick, freshly made slice of pizza with either a regular or extra crispy crust.

Mable Howard Apartments: Moxy, Open 5 pm – 10 pm

Because it opens later than most restaurants in this guide, Moxy is a great option for those of you voting around dinner time— heads up, polls are open until 8 pm! Enjoy a beer from its extensive selection of draft beers and snack on traditional American food while celebrating casting your ballot. Settle into the cozy, rustic beer garden and enjoy your meal.

Malcolm X School: Kaffa Ethiopian Cuisine, Open 11 am – 3 pm and 5 pm – 9 pm

Kaffa Ethiopian Cuisine serves authentic Ethiopian dishes at a reasonable price in a casual, unassuming environment. Kaffa started off as a stall at the South Berkeley farmers market, and now has its own restaurant, but still emphasizes healthy options with local ingredients. Enjoy a hearty meal or a few small plates.

Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School: Espresso Roma Café, Open 7 am – 6 pm

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While certainly more of a coffee shop than a restaurant, Espresso Roma Café still deserves a feature on this list. Serving a wide selection of Fair Trade coffees, hot and cold sandwiches, and pastries, Espresso Roma isn’t to be missed—located just several blocks from MLK Middle School, it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee on your way to the polls or a quick bite to eat after casting your ballot.

McGee Avenue Baptist Church: Berkeley Bowl, Open 9 am – 8 pm

While definitely not a restaurant, Berkeley Bowl is a great place to stop after casting your ballot. Since McGee Avenue Baptist Church is located in a residential area, there aren’t any restaurants in its direct vicinity, but Berkeley Bowl is a great alternative with plenty of delicious options. With a bakery, café, and all the groceries you could ever want, you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for.

MLK Student Union: La Cocina’s Cantina, Open 11 am – 3 pm

Berkeley polling place
Emily Hu

Conveniently located just downstairs from where you’ll be casting your ballot, La Cocina’s Cantina is a new food court located in the basement of UC Berkeley’s MLK Student Union serving up an array of eats from numerous cultures. You can’t go wrong with any of the options, and you’ll be supporting women of color and local businesses with your purchases, making it a win-win.

MLK Youth Services Center: Way Station Brew, Open 6:45 am – 7 pm

Despite being a ways away from MLK Youth Services Center’s residential location, Way Station Brew is a great place to stop by before or after voting. Located several blocks away, but in the same neighborhood, Way Station Brew serves up a variety of coffee options, breakfast foods, and quick lunch bites in a cozy, warm environment perfect for cozying up with your voter’s guide or “I Voted” sticker.

Newman Hall Gallery: Free House, Open 11:30 am – 12 am

Free House is an old Berkeley establishment. Walk a couple of blocks towards campus from Newman Hall, and treat yourself to classic American comfort food with a twist and enjoy its selection of craft beers. Weather permitting, you can enjoy your meal in the whimsical courtyard outside.

North Berkeley Branch Library: FatApple’s Berkeley, Open 7 am – 8:30 pm

Berkeley polling place
Annabelle Long

An unassuming, homey diner located in the heart of residential north Berkeley, FatApple’s is a Berkeley staple and must-visit. It serves up classic American diner fare and homemade pastries that never fail to satisfy. Enjoy a hearty meal after casting your ballot.

Northbrae Community Church: Bangkok Jam Thai Restaurant, Open 11:30 am – 2:30 pm and 5 pm – 9:30 pm

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Located down the street from Northbrae Community Church, Bangkok Jam Thai Restaurant is a convenient place to drop by for a post-voting meal. It serves traditional Thai cuisine made from locally-sourced and organic ingredients, so you know what you’re eating is not only delicious, but great for you and the sustainability of organic farms.

Ollie Grove Church: Chile Jalapeño Taqueria, Open 9 am – 8 pm

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Squeeze into Chile Jalapeño Taqueria for some authentic Mexican food after casting your ballot. Located only a few blocks from where you’ll be voting, make sure you don’t miss the chance to enjoy a freshly made street taco or burrito in a unique, hole-in-the-wall restaurant.

Oregon Park Apartments: Easy Creole, Open 11:30 am – 9 pm

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Easy Creole serves up a number of creative Creole-Cajun dishes in a cool, casual atmosphere. Its rotating menu caters to a litany of different dietary needs and preferences, so you’re bound to find something that appeals to you. If Easy Creole is too far from your polling place for your liking, stop by Kaffa Ethiopian Cuisine, located just down Sacramento Street from Oregon Park Apartments (see the description under Malcom X School in this guide).

Progressive Baptist Church: Sweet Adeline Bakeshop, Open 7 am – 6 pm

Conveniently located just a block from where you’ll be voting, Sweet Adeline Bakeshop is a go-to spot for delicious homemade pastries. Stop by for a warm scone or freshly baked bread or order a custom “I Voted!” cake to pick up on the 6th.

Redwood Gardens (Any Room): The Station Burger Berkeley, Open 11 AM – 8 PM

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Housed in an old trolley station, The Station is a unique restaurant perfect for kicking back in after casting your ballot. After voting, go enjoy organic, local ingredients crafted into artisan burgers and shakes.

Rosa Parks School: El Patio, Open 11 am – 12 am

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Grab a quick bite to eat at El Patio, a Mexican restaurant located only a couple blocks away from Rosa Parks Elementary School. Order a taco or burrito filled with freshly seasoned and cooked meats and enjoy the cozy décor or quiet patio on Election Day.

Second Church of Christ Science: Grégoire Restaurant, Open 11 am – 9 pm

Grégoire is an iconic Berkeley restaurant known for its potato puffs and other gourmet French fast food. Grégoire is a grab-and-go, fast food restaurant, making it the perfect place to stop by on your way to the polls or on your way home.

Seventh Day Adventist Church: La Note, Open 8 am – 2:30 pm

The Seventh Day Adventist Church is located in a more residential area, meaning restaurant options are more limited. But if you’re willing to go a little farther away, La Note is a perfect place to stop by after casting your ballot. La Note serves French-inspired dishes all day, and weather permitting, has an open-air patio perfect for savoring the Election Day weather.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church: Inn Kensington Restaurant, Open 7 am – 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm

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Conveniently located in the Inn Kensington just a few blocks from the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, head over to the Inn Kensington Restaurant for great food from one of Berkeley’s best-kept secrets. Enjoy classic comfort dishes with a twist, like their delicious rosemary lamb with teriyaki sauce and shallots.

St. Ambrose Church: Sanctuary Bistro, Open 11 am – 3 pm and 5:30 pm – 9 pm

Sanctuary Bistro is a modern, chic restaurant that serves typical American fare—perfect for after you cast your vote. There’s something for everyone: Sanctuary has a primarily vegan and gluten-free menu.

St. Clements Church: Fournée Bakery, Open 7 am – 7 pm

Stop by Fournée Bakery, located just across the street from St. Clement’s Episcopal Church and get a homemade pastry or slice of pizza after casting your ballot on November 6th. Fournée Bakery features classic French décor and French-inspired pastry options, making it a great place to stop by for a quick bite on your way to or from the polls.

St. Mary Magdalen Church: Saul’s Restaurant and Delicatessen, Open 8 am – 9 pm

Despite casting your ballot on the West Coast, you can enjoy the culinary offerings of the East Coast at Saul’s Restaurant and Delicatessen, which brings the wonders of the classic New York deli to North Berkeley. Dig into a freshly made pastrami sandwich or a plate of latkes to reward yourself for participating in the midterms.

Stuart Pratt Manor: Venus Restaurant, Open 8 am – 2:30 pm

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Located just across the street from where you’ll be casting your ballot at Stuart Pratt Manor, Venus Restaurant is a Berkeley classic. Venus features classic Californian dishes and an open, airy seating area perfect for relaxing after voting. Just as you’ll be engaging in local politics, Venus emphasizes local produce and seasonal dishes.

Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch Library: Ashby Super Market, Open 8:30 am – 10 pm

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I know you came here for a restaurant option and I’m giving you a supermarket but hear me out—South Branch Library isn’t located remotely close to any restaurants, and this guide is about convenience and motivating you to get out to the polls. Ashby Super Market certainly doesn’t epitomize fine dining, but there are plenty of options to satisfy your post-polling hunger. Stop by the deli counter for a delicious, freshly made sandwich, or knock out your grocery shopping for the week. 

The Bridge Church: Sushinista, Open 11 am – 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm – 8 pm

Sushinista is a casual Japanese-Mexican fusion restaurant offering diners a unique array of options. Its fast-casual dining style allows for customers to easily customize their burritos or bowls to their liking. Choose from exciting mains like honey grilled chicken with mint leaf and teriyaki mayo sauce or balsamic Portobello with cilantro and pickled daikon—the combinations are endless.

The Church By The Side of The Road: Sconehenge Bakery and Café, Open 7 am – 2:30 pm

Take a trip to Sconehenge—almost as cool as Stonehenge— after casting your ballot to enjoy an array of breakfast and lunch options in a cozy, welcoming environment. Located just two blocks from The Church By The Side of The Road, Sconehenge welcomes visitors with homemade goods and traditional American breakfast options.

Thousand Oaks Baptist Church: Troy Greek Cuisine, Open 11:30 am – 9 pm

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After casting your ballot at Thousand Oaks Baptist Church, head over a block and visit Troy Greek Cuisine. Troy serves traditional Mediterranean food in a welcoming environment and is the perfect spot to pick up a delicious Greek bite for the road. Order a kebab after voting—you deserve it.

UC Residence Hall Unit 1: Top Dog, Open 10 am – 2 am

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Top Dog is a Berkeley late-night favorite, but that doesn’t mean you can’t drop by for a quick brat or hot dog mid-day. Enjoy the freshly grilled dogs and buns, and be sure not to forget extra sauerkraut or mustard for an extra zing. Hopefully, your candidate of choice ends up “top dog” by the end of the day.

UC Residence Hall Unit 3: Famous Bao, Open 11 am – 9:15 pm

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Your polling place is in the heart of Southside Berkeley, so you really have your pick of food options. Famous Bao is perhaps the most convenient option, located just across the street from Unit 3 in Sather Lane. Squeeze into this tiny establishment for some freshly-made bao or hand-pulled noodles.

UCSF Benioff Children’s Garage: Lula, Open 11 am – 9 pm

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Drop into Lula for a taste of authentic Ethiopian cuisine. Located just across the street from where you’ll be casting your ballot, Lula serves a number of traditional Ethiopian dishes in a relaxed environment perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

University Lutheran Church: Sliver Pizzeria, Open 10 am – 10:30 pm

Sliver is a pizzeria like no other—it only serves one kind of pizza each day and has a funky, eclectic vibe to its décor. It prides itself on its social consciousness—just like you after casting your ballot.

Willard Junior High: Bacheesos, Open 8 am – 9:30 pm

Head a couple of blocks north of Willard Junior High to find Bacheesos, a reasonably priced and delicious Mediterranean Restaurant. Dive into the all-you-can-eat buffet and enjoy the freshly made hummus and expertly grilled meats. Celebrate the original Greek democracy after playing your part in modern American democracy.

Zaytona College (all sides): Celia’s Mexican Restaurant, Open 11 am – 10 pm

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Celia’s is a Berkeley staple—quality Mexican food for reasonable prices in a fun, colorful environment, and only a short walk from Zaytona College. Step in for a bite after voting.

So there you have it—a comprehensive guide on where to eat in Berkeley on Election Day. Most of these establishments are located just a short walk from your Berkeley polling place, making it super convenient to stop by for a quick bite on your way to or from the polls. Get excited about politics, creating the government you want, and the fantastic food you can enjoy on Election Day. No excuses—get out and participate in the midterms this November and while you are at it, enjoy a great meal in honor of your civic participation.

Annabelle Long

UC Berkeley '22