Guerilla Cafe

1620 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709, United States
+1 510-845-2233
$$$ Cafe , Art cafe , Breakfast restaurant
(355 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Guerilla Cafe in Berkeley feels like a cozy crossroads where breakfast comfort meets a laid-back art cafe energy. Situated on Shattuck Avenue, it draws a steady stream of locals who appreciate its simple, home-style food without the fuss or long waits common at larger brunch spots nearby. This makes it an appealing go-to for casual weekend mornings, especially when other places around town get crowded.

The interior reflects an old-world, settled atmosphere with wooden tables and barstools that invite you to linger over your coffee or a meal. There’s a youthful energy from the staff, which adds to the relaxed vibe, and you can opt for indoor seating or step outside to enjoy the Berkeley air. The music here can sometimes be a bit lively, underscoring the social, urban cafe feeling rather than a quiet, library-like space.

The menu stays true to straightforward, quality ingredients with a focus on breakfast and light lunch options like grilled paninis (turkey with provolone, ham with gruyere, or a vegan seasonal veggie choice) and vegetarian soups. The bowls of fresh fruit are given a thoughtful twist, such as a hint of citrus zest, that keeps things fresh without overt complexity. Items like avocado toast and scrambled eggs on croissants feel homemade and satisfyingly wholesome, appealing to those who want a meal that feels nurturing but not heavy on butter or grease.

Guerilla Cafe works well for people who want an easy, unpretentious spot to start the day, whether they’re dropping in solo with a book or catching up with friends without the pressure of a full-service restaurant. It’s well suited to locals looking for reliable, quality food that leans healthy and avoids overproduction. If you’re aiming for a morning break free from the weekend crowds, mornings and early afternoons here tend to be most inviting.

Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Serves organic dishes
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Thursday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Saturday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Sunday

07:00 AM - 02:00 PM

355 Reviews
Matt K

27 Dec 2025

Good place. Came here in a Sunday when all the other bigger restaurants had hour long waits. Instant service here, simple, few frills. Home cooking but better quality than you could do at home probably. Seems healthy with not a lot of lard/butter added for flavor. Places like this are essential

Brian Dorney

09 Dec 2025

Charming atmosphere, great food. Little hole in the wall. Would recommend. The line zest on the fruit bowl was a great touch. Added a nice, slightly sour, taste to the watermelon.

Andy C

23 Oct 2025

Just visited today for brunch, the food is delicious, the fruit is fresh and the arrangement is delicate. I like the vibe in this restaurant, staff are young and energetic. They have indoor or outdoor seating.

Maritza Longland

23 Oct 2025

The music is a little bit loud, but the avocado toast is *the best*. The food tastes homemade. A very enjoyable meal.

Steve Brittingham

20 Oct 2025

Old world, quiet, settled atmosphere. Barstools and wooden tables. Scrambled eggs and cheese on croissant was EXCELLENT, as was the breve.

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