Reviews - Standard Fare
Reviews summary
Nestled in a vibrant corner of the city, this restaurant offers a mixed dining experience. Customers appreciate the locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes, praising the excellent coffee and quick service. However, there are concerns regarding food consistency, as some meals fell flat or were poorly prepared, leading to significant disappointment for a few diners. The charming ambiance, characterized by a lively atmosphere and shared seating, makes it a notable brunch spot. While many leave satisfied, some adverse experiences raise questions about food safety and flavor balance.
Was Mark R at Standard Fare a mag?
This fantastic brunch spot in Berkeley takes me back to Cafe Fanny (which is now closed). It seems to be run by people who have experience from there. The shared table setup is quite nice, and I had no trouble finding a seat on a Saturday morning. View all feedback.
What David Chang dislikes about Standard Fare:
I arrived near the end of breakfast to meet some friends at this charming little corner spot. The place was lively, filled with regulars coming and going, which set my expectations high. Unfortunately, many of the popular dishes were already sold out, so we ended up ordering the oatmeal and granola along with a cappuccino and an Americano. The coffee was expertly crafted and delicious, but the food fell short—the gra... View all feedback.
Reviews from various users
Last update : 30.07.2025
I got salmonella food poisoning from a salad eaten at this establishment. Worst night of my life. I have been in contact with the health department so no one else suffers that same fate. Nice patio though. Food: 1 Service: 1 Atmosphere: 2 Service: Dine in Price per person: $20–30
My fritata was cold and gross. This place has been going downhill for years and that was the last time. Food: 1 Service: 1 Atmosphere: 1 Service: Dine in Price per person: $20–30
Last update : 22.08.2023
Quality, fresh, nutritious, energizing food that feeds my soul and body! It can be challenging to find organic clean food that introduces new flavors- dedication and execution is so appreciated! ??Food: 5/5
This place is great! Went for breakfast and everything was excellent. I had the veggie frittata and a chai latte. My wife had the buttermilk biscuit sandwich. The frittata might have been the best I've ever had. Packed with flavor to the point where I was surprised there was no meat! My wife loved her sandwich and my chai latte was excellent. Amazing option for a nice Saturday morning breakfast.
This fantastic brunch spot in Berkeley takes me back to Cafe Fanny (which is now closed). It seems to be run by people who have experience from there. The shared table setup is quite nice, and I had no trouble finding a seat on a Saturday morning.
The menu features a delightful mix of healthy vegetarian options alongside creative meat and fish dishes, all beautifully arranged on custom, handcrafted pottery by local ceramicist Jered Nelson from Emeryville. Sandwiches are served on toasted focaccia, accompanied by pickles or salad, and complemented by a flavorful vegetable garnish. Kelsie consistently includes one or two vegetarian selections, which are presented with the same artistic flair as her meat and fish plates.
I ordered the fried chicken plate, and I'm not sure if coating the chicken in flour before frying is what people typically expect from fried chicken. They attempted an Asian-inspired dish, but it ended up being bland and quite mediocre. The portion included two small pieces of chicken: a small drumstick and another small cut piece. Everything on the plate was overly oily— the rice, roasted carrots, and the spinach salad were all drenched in grease and lacked any vibrant flavors. Overall, it felt like a simple assortment of cooked ingredients rather than a well-executed dish.
Last update : 17.08.2023
Amazing. complex flavours coaxed out of simple, whole foods. Opt for whatever is on the sand which board out front as their 'special '. you will not be disappointed.
Food was great! I only wish they had a larger seating area.
Love the idea, love the food, and love that it's around the corner from my work. I can pick stuff up from their pantry, order dinner to pick-up, and grab lunch. Tonight I had an almond pot de crème and it was so rich, amazing. Always get her soups.
We absolutely love dining here! The service is outstanding, and the food is the best in Berkeley. Everything is fresh, seasonal, creative, and authentic. The lunch specials and daily sandwiches are unlike any bread and sandwich we've experienced before. The salads are unique, and the pastries are delicious. They also offer takeaway options and even have a not-so-secret super club every Friday, along with brunch on Saturdays. We eat here 3 to 5 times a week, and they even provide catering. It's truly amazing and comes highly recommended!
I'm incredibly fortunate that you are just a short walk from my office. Standard Fare offers the best coffee and sandwiches in the area. Everything is prepared quickly, and you have the option to order online for easy pickup. It makes having lunch at my desk a true pleasure!
Last update : 15.06.2023
What a gem! The restaurant features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients used in innovative ways. The food was delightful, and the service was both excellent and quick. We’ll definitely be returning!
My favorite restaurant. Delicious farm fresh ingredients. Imaginable preparations. Nice staff. Charming hidden setting:
Even though I'm out of town, I always make it a point to stop here whenever I'm in Berkeley. Everything is delicious! I had brunch, and the ricotta toast was simply divine. The upside-down cake was spectacular, and the sourdough waffle with strawberries was delightful! The staff is helpful, but they do have a lot on their plates, so please be nice to them! Wearing a mask while placing your order is a small request. Bring your mom, your pup, or anyone else you want—this little spot is a gem!
I visited this restaurant for Saturday brunch for the first time yesterday with some friends. The space is small, but the service is efficient, and there are extra seats outside. Everything we ordered was excellent. We had chai lattes, a sourdough waffle topped with strawberry rhubarb and a pasteurized egg, a pulled pork sandwich, scrambled eggs with herbs served with buttermilk biscuits, and mocha. This is definitely a place where you'll want to return to try everything on the menu.
The food is always outstanding. Whether it’s the lunch special or the dessert. I love coming to standard fare as often as I can with it’s always changing menu. Can not recommend enough.
