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Welcome to Free Speech Movement Cafe

At the heart of Berkeley, the Free Speech Movement Cafe is a vibrant hub for students and community members alike. Nestled on the 3rd floor of UC Berkeley, this café is more than just a place to grab a bite; it champions free expression and social interaction. With a diverse menu featuring hot pressed sandwiches like the Tuna Melt and Turkey Avocado, alongside appealing vegan and vegetarian options, there's something for everyone. The spacious outdoor seating and casual atmosphere make it an ideal spot for studying or relaxation, as patrons savor freshly brewed coffee and delicious fare while fostering connections in a welcoming environment.

Free Speech Movement Cafe: Reviews & Ratings

Nicole Hadassah
Nicole Hadassah

Five stars because its the only place open late on campus. Law of supply and demand. The coffee itself is pretty bad and really strong. Great to keep you going during an all nighter.

Yuan L.
Yuan L.

A nice on campus cafe for you to either grab something between classes, or just to stay and study or hangout with friends ...

Brynne Stevens
Brynne Stevens

I loiter on the patio here at least once a week with a good sandwich and decent matcha. Best campus cafe

Jason Braun
Jason Braun

Tucked away in the center of campus is its best cafe. Students line the wall here with laptops open studying something of greatness Im sure. The patio out back is huge, with room for at least a hundred people. Coffee is always fresh and the service is good.

Dora Barbosa
Dora Barbosa

Summer hours are different but I die for their Apple clouds ...

Efthymios Philip Papageorgiou
Efthymios Philip Papageorgiou

Nice outdoor seating area and the drink and food options are ok. The only main problem is that the hours vary based on the school schedule, so in the summer, spring break, etc it may not be open or just limited hours. Thats not a problem for students, but since Im not one anymore I dont keep track closely.

Nick Cole
Nick Cole

Staff is great here, food is freshly made and the coffee is good for both grabngo and fancier drinks. ...

Abz Lee
Abz Lee

Great historic place to sit and sip great coffee, study, or grab a delicious snack. Variety of foods and drinks in a spot that represents the Free Speech Movement at Cal. Staff are friendly and provide fast service, the indoors is decorated to match its past, and the outdoor seating area is more than spacious

Location

Welcome to the Free Speech Movement Cafe! Nestled on the third floor of UC Berkeley, this cafe is a vibrant hub for students and visitors alike. It pays homage to the historic Free Speech Movement, creating a space where ideas flourish and community thrives. The cafe is more than just a dining spot; it’s a destination for anyone looking to nourish both the body and mind.

  • Location & Atmosphere: The Free Speech Movement Cafe boasts a relaxed yet classy environment, perfect for group gatherings, study sessions, or simply unwinding with friends. With ample outdoor seating, including a spacious patio that can accommodate large crowds, it’s an ideal spot for soaking up the California sun while sipping your favorite beverage.
  • Diverse Menu: The menu is a carefully curated mix of offerings, featuring hot pressed sandwiches like the Tuna Melt, Turkey Avocado, and Halal Chicken Paprika, all priced at $10.75. Vegetarian options abound, ensuring that everyone can find something to savor. Patrons rave about their signature dishes and local favorites, which pair perfectly with a variety of beverages.
  • Convenience: With utilities like takeout, delivery, and even a drive-thru, convenience is at the heart of the Free Speech Movement Cafe. You can make reservations or enjoy some quality time with loved ones while benefitting from free Wi-Fi. Plus, they offer an array of payment options, including cash, cards, and even cryptocurrency!
  • Community-Oriented: This cafe embraces sustainable practices, utilizing compostable containers and plastic-free packaging. They prioritize accessibility with Braille menus and accessible parking, making their space welcoming to all.

One can't help but feel energized by the bustling atmosphere, echoed in customer sentiments like Nicole Hadassah's glowing review, noting its late hours and the strong coffee that fuels all-nighters. It’s clear that the Free Speech Movement Cafe is not just about food—it's a lively gathering place that supports the academic endeavors and social interactions of the UC Berkeley community. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between classes or settling in for an extended stay, you’ll find that this cafe strikes a perfect balance between comfort and utility.

So come on by, relish a Caprese sandwich, or perhaps sip on a refreshing matcha as you join the chorus of students and thinkers making history at this remarkable establishment!