Seemor
East Bay SpiceBWorth Trying
2142 Oxford St, Berkeley, CA 94704
· Bar, Cocktail bar, Indian restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (632 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Creative Indian-fusion bar with standout cocktails and late-night bites; great when staffed, but service can be slow or inattentive during rushes.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
East Bay Spice delivers strong food quality with creative Indian-fusion execution and standout cocktails that justify its loyal following in downtown Berkeley. However, inconsistent service and timing during rushes alongside tight upstairs seating prevent grade A-level reliability. The restaurant excels as a cocktail-forward late-night destination with generous portions and fair pricing, but service volatility keeps it from competing with the area's most polished establishments.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels dim and cozy with a lively student buzz, and an upstairs nook that regulars swear by. Cocktails lead the way, with comments like "garam masala rims and vibrant flavors" setting the tone. However, at peak times service can slip from friendly to frustratingly slow, with some guests reporting long waits or being overlooked. The cooking skews Indian-Mex fusion—think tikka masala flatbreads, tandoori tacos, and classic curries with modern edges. When it hits, the flavors are bright and satisfying, and portions feel generous for the price. This suits diners who enjoy creative, cocktail-paired bites more than purists seeking traditional regional Indian nuances. Families can make it work earlier in the evening: flatbreads, fried chicken and waffles, and simple tacos are kid-friendly; the bar vibe and noise rise later. There is no explicit kids menu, but approachable options exist. Late-night energy may not suit younger children.
At a Glance
- Creative Indian-fusion menu with standout cocktails
- Portions are generous for the price
- Service slows and attentiveness drops during rushes
- Space can feel cramped upstairs after remodel
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- creative_indian_fusion_cocktails
- late_night_kitchen
- upstairs_group_nook
What People Love
- Inventive cocktails with spice-driven rims
- Tikka masala flatbreads with add-ons
- Consistent chicken tikka masala comfort
- Late-night kitchen when other spots close
- Lively, cozy atmosphere
Points of Concern
- Service can be inattentive or slow during busy times; several reports of being overlooked upstairs
- Space feels tight or claustrophobic to some after the remodel
- Isolated safety and conduct complaints; management response inconsistent
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (polarized extremes, brief generic entries) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- For creative menus: Expect bolder flavors and fusion twists rather than traditional preparations
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$29-40 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Chicken Tikka Masala ($16) with garlic naan ($5) and side rice ($4) for a filling set
- Share a flatbread ($15-18) plus tacos ($12) to sample fusion range
- Use happy hour for value on cocktails; verify current specials with staff
Perfect For
- Pre-show cocktails and snacks
- Casual date night with inventive drinks
- Late-night bite near campus
- Small groups using the upstairs nook
Location Insights
Area: Lively college and arts district near UC Berkeley with casual bars, theaters, and late-night student traffic.
Safety: Generally busy and lit; occasional reports of uncomfortable interactions late-night; standard urban vigilance advised.
Nearby: Steps from campus, near BART, theaters, casual eateries, and student housing; strong evening foot traffic.
South BerkeleySouth Berkeley is a culturally diverse neighborhood with a strong community feel. The dining scene includes a variety of ethnic eateries, casual dining spots, and local markets reflecting the area's multicultural population. It is known for its accessibility and neighborhood-oriented atmosphere, attracting both locals and visitors seeking authentic and affordable food options.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–00:00
Tuesday16:00–00:00
Wednesday16:00–00:00
Thursday16:00–00:00
Friday16:00–02:00
Saturday16:00–02:00
Sunday16:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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