Seemor
La NoteB+Worth Trying
2377 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704
· French restaurant, Bistro, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (2018 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Charming French-leaning brunch spot with standout pancakes, eggs, and potatoes; expect lines, a lively room, and occasional service delays, but good value for Berkeley.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
La Note delivers solid neighborhood bistro dining with standout pancakes, eggs, and roasted-garlic potatoes that justify its loyal following and brunch-destination status. However, quality varies noticeably between visits, with occasional cold or dry dishes and service slowdowns during peak times preventing a higher grade. The warm French cafe atmosphere and downtown Berkeley location add charm without reaching destination-level distinction, making this a reliable choice for classic brunch rather than a must-visit establishment.
Restaurant Summary
La Note feels like a slice of Berkeley meets Provence, with warm and bustling rooms, bistro chairs, and the comforting scent of butter and coffee. Diners rave about the rosemary-garlic potatoes and fluffy pancakes; one guest said the potatoes with whole roasted garlic "made the plate sing." Lines are common, the patio is calmer, and service is friendly if occasionally stretched. The cooking leans classic French cafe with gentle twists—think lemon gingerbread pancakes, ratatouille over couscous, and soft-scrambled eggs on toast—an approach that is elevated traditional rather than flashy. Portions are hearty, prices fair for the quality, and the menu suits brunch lovers who appreciate simple dishes done well more than avant-garde plates. Families do well here thanks to kid-pleasing staples like pancakes, eggs, toast, and oatmeal. If noise is an issue, aim for the patio or off-peak hours. There is no dedicated kids menu, but pancakes ($12-16.50), eggs with homefries (~$15-18), and brioche French toast ($15.50) are reliable picks for younger palates.
At a Glance
- Standout pancakes, eggs, and roasted-garlic potatoes
- Cozy Parisian cafe vibe with a pleasant patio
- Long waits and slower service at peak times
- Indoor noise can be high; patio is quieter
- Portions are generous for the price
What Sets It Apart
- lavender_honey_french_toast
- signature_gingerbread_pancakes
- roasted_garlic_potatoes
- cozy_french_cafe_ambiance
What People Love
- Hearty, fluffy pancakes with creative flavors
- Crispy potatoes with aromatic roasted garlic
- Welcoming cafe ambiance that feels transportive
- Consistently satisfying omelettes and eggs
Points of Concern
- Expect lines and longer ticket times during peak brunch hours
- Indoor space can feel cramped and loud; patio improves comfort
- Group seating policies feel strict and can sour experiences
- Service lapses occur under pressure; follow-up can be slow
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$32-45 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For lighter eaters: Salade Verte (small $14.50) plus a single pancake ($6-6.50)
- Vegetarian brunch: Omelette au Fromage ($16) with homefries
- Lunch classic: Ratatouille Borghetti ($22), add poached eggs for richness (+$6)
Perfect For
- Weekend brunch with friends
- Casual date over coffee and pancakes
- Solo breakfast with a book on the patio
- Treat-yourself morning after the farmers market
Location Insights
Area: Busy university-adjacent downtown with student, faculty, and local traffic; casual, lively, and walkable.
Safety: Generally safe during the day with steady foot traffic; standard urban precautions at night.
Nearby: Near UC Berkeley, bookstores like Pegasus, cafes, shops, and parking garages; street parking is tight.
South BerkeleySouth Berkeley offers a mix of casual and eclectic dining options, reflecting its diverse population and proximity to the University of California, Berkeley. The area has a laid-back, community-oriented atmosphere with a blend of historic and modern influences, attracting both locals and visitors seeking authentic and affordable food experiences.
Gourmet GhettoKnown as a pioneering food destination, the Gourmet Ghetto is famous for its artisanal eateries, organic markets, and innovative restaurants. It has a lively, foodie-centric vibe that draws a crowd interested in sustainable and high-quality dining.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–14:00
Tuesday08:00–14:00
Wednesday08:00–14:00
Thursday08:00–14:00
Friday08:00–14:00
Saturday08:00–15:00
Sunday08:00–15:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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