Roast&Toast Cafe

Roast&Toast Cafe on Shattuck Avenue in Berkeley settles comfortably into the neighborhood as a lively spot for coffee lovers, remote workers, and those craving a casual bite. As a café and coffee shop, it balances a neighborhood hangout vibe with touches of local character that make it more than just another caffeine stop.

The café’s draw is multifaceted. Their coffee menu leans into quality and a bit of creativity — along with classic espresso drinks, they offer more unique choices like Café Bombon (espresso layered with condensed milk and milk foam) and a cardamom cold brew, adding Middle Eastern flavor notes to the mix. The coffee tends to be smooth rather than aggressively bold, so if you’re after a strong shot, you may find it a bit mild. Still, it suits plenty of visitors looking to sip thoughtfully while they work or catch up with friends.

Inside, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming but a touch bustling, especially during peak hours when students and locals converge for study sessions or casual meetups. The interior showcases brick architecture that connects the café visually to Berkeley’s historic streetscapes, while sidewalk seating looks out over Shattuck Avenue, making it a nice spot for people watching on mild afternoons. Parking is relatively easy in the area, and a post-coffee stroll is a natural extension for many visitors.

The food lineup complements the coffee well, focusing on hot sandwiches that balance smoked turkey and cheeses for meat-eaters alongside several vegetarian options starring fresh ingredients like avocado, sprouts, burrata, and roasted peppers. The croissant sandwiches especially come highly recommended by regulars and pair nicely with the café’s ice cream offerings, which include a distinctive Arabic "booza" (stretchy) ice cream — an unusual find in Berkeley that adds to the café’s appeal. This sweet treat is a popular choice for those looking to cool off or add something special to their visit.

Service tends to be personable and attentive, with staff members who take time to explain menu nuances and share stories about the ice cream preparation, helping visitors feel connected beyond just the food. There is reliable WiFi, making it a solid option for remote working, though outlets are somewhat limited so best to come prepared if you need to plug in.

Though the café is busy and the space can get a little dusty at times, its energy feels authentic—almost like an ongoing gathering spot where the community and newcomers intersect. It's especially lively in the late afternoons and early evenings, and being open late adds flexibility for those who want a relaxed bite or drink on their own schedule.

In summary, Roast&Toast is well suited for those who want a thoughtfully crafted coffee experience paired with fresh, inventive sandwiches and a side of local Berkeley charm. Students, remote workers, and neighborhood regulars all find reasons to linger here, whether for a focused study session, a catch-up with friends, or a quiet moment with a unique ice cream treat. The street-side seating and inviting interiors encourage sinking in and soaking up Berkeley’s casual yet culturally rich pace of life.