Souvenir Coffee

I want to preface by saying my low rating is *not* a reflection of the latte (which was good) but more the pastry (blueberry and banana loaf) which was bad and the service which was worse. The loaf was very greasy and tasted synthetic- not a fan. But what really soured it was the young woman at the front who was borderline standoffish. Coincidentally, this occurred right after I declined to give a tip - which I feel like at a coffee place is not the “standard” as it would be a sit down restaurant. Immediately her demeanor changed - she got curt and looked bothered. Not cool at all and it made me leave feeling like I had been treated poorly. Also, there was a *very* long wait despite there being ONE person ahead of me because a different employee was chatting away with the person before me as if they were friends? Even after she rang them up and saw me waiting.

Gem of a neighborhood coffee shop! Excellent coffee and very friendly staff. Only downside is that seating is limited, it’s always so crowded and hard to snag a table. It’s become my new favorite to walk to in the morning especially if you live in the elmwood/college ave area

One of my more favorite local coffee shops. Good coffee, cosy and nice seating in a quiet neighborhood. Great place to have a good cup of coffee and wind down.

Great coffee and service, pleasant premises, Zen like patio in the back. My rating scale is tough and this establishment which serves a fine latte and cortado with solid roasted bean notes and flavors deserves a solid 4. Souvenir occupies the prior location of Semifreddi’s Bakery, a few blocks West from the Claremont Hotel. Next door is a comic book and poster store that harkens back to the 60s and 70s and well worth a visit on its own. Souvenir roasts its own beans which my readers know by now means a lot to me. The premises were full which is always a good sign. The back patio represents an oasis of tranquility in hectic Berkeley. Service was excellent and the kind young ladies took the time to explain which beans were used for espresso, all with a smile. This establishment deserves your business - and linger a while in the patio.

Souvenir Coffee is the real deal, they are very passionate about coffee and it shows up in every cup. They love talking about coffee too, if time allows. Be sure to ask all of your questions and take some time to try some of their de-lish snacks!