Seemor
The Butcher’s Son Vegan Delicatessen & BakeryBWorth Trying
1954 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
· Vegan restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (2029 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Beloved vegan deli with standout Reubens, creative plant-based meats, big portions, and occasional service inconsistency; best for adventurous eaters and vegan comfort-food fans.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
The Butcher's Son delivers satisfying vegan deli fare with strong food quality and a charming rear patio setting that draws devoted repeat customers. However, inconsistent execution—occasional oiliness and texture misses— and variable service attentiveness during busy periods prevent a higher grade. It's a worthwhile destination for vegan comfort food seekers, but not yet a premier neighborhood establishment.
Restaurant Summary
A cheerful vegan deli that feels warm and bustling, this spot draws students, locals, and visitors for hefty sandwiches and a lovely back patio. Expect counter ordering, self-serve condiments, and moments of controlled chaos. As one diner put it, "portions are huge and I left satisfied," though a few noted service hiccups at peak times. The cooking leans toward plant-based comfort with real deli swagger: pastrami Reubens, gyros, buffalo chicken, and garlic fries. The culinary approach leans contemporary and produce-driven: inventive mock meats framed as classic American deli fare. Most praise the bold flavors; a minority cite textures or oiliness. Adventurous eaters and vegan-curious omnivores will find plenty to love, while purists seeking exact meat replicas may prefer to recalibrate expectations. For families, the familiar formats—sandwiches, fries, and salads—are kid-friendly in concept, though some children may balk at mock-meat textures. Fries, garlic bread vibes, and simpler sandwiches are safe bets. There is no formal kids menu noted, so pick straightforward items and share larger portions.
At a Glance
- Big, satisfying portions and crowd-favorite Reubens and gyros
- Creative vegan deli experience with grab-and-go options
- Service can feel curt or confusing during online pickups
- Some items run oily or have divisive textures
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- housemade_vegan_charcuterie
- rear_courtyard_seating
- grab_and_go_deli_case
- free_coffee_station
What People Love
- Craveable Reubens with deep deli flavor
- Boldly seasoned gyros and buffalo chicken
- A generous portion ethos with leftovers
- A rare all-vegan deli with a fun case of treats
Points of Concern
- Occasional reports of rude or inattentive service, especially around online pickup; appears intermittent rather than systemic
- Texture of cheeses or seitan can divide opinions; some find items oily
- Parking near downtown can be frustrating at peak times
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$24-36 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with a $10.95 sandwich and share garlic fries to keep costs moderate
- Choose salad versions (gyro/caesar) if you prefer lighter textures
- Add deli-case pickles or bacon for extra flavor without a full side
Perfect For
- Vegan comfort-food cravings
- Mixed-diet groups seeking plant-based options
- Quick casual lunches near campus
- Sunny-day patio munching
Location Insights
Area: Student-centric downtown near UC Berkeley; casual, lively, and budget-conscious with strong daytime foot traffic.
Safety: Generally safe with busy sidewalks; typical urban nuisances but active street life and lighting.
Nearby: Near UC campus, bookstores, cafes, and transit; mix of students, faculty, and visitors.
SouthsideSouthside is a lively neighborhood adjacent to the UC Berkeley campus, characterized by a mix of student-oriented businesses, casual eateries, and cultural venues. The dining scene is eclectic, catering to a youthful crowd with a variety of affordable and international food options, alongside some upscale spots.
Southside FlatsSouthside Flats is a sub-area within Southside known for its dense student housing and proximity to campus, featuring numerous casual dining spots, coffee shops, and bars popular among the university community.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–20:00
Tuesday11:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–20:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday10:00–20:00
Sunday10:00–16:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →