In a coffee industry full of big chains, it is a breath of fresh air to know that one-of-a-kind coffee shops and eateries like Guerilla Cafe still exist.
Guerilla Cafe, nestled in the food paradise that is north Berkeley, walks the walk in every sense. Far from pandering, the cafe lives true to the promise in its name in uplifting progressive revolutionaries and activists. Order anything and the number stand you are given displays a picture of a human rights activist on the front and a short bio on the back. The walls are painted with quotes and portrayals of artistic and cultural icons. Currently, a painting of Toni Morrison overlooks one of the cafe’s best tables right by a big window facing Shattuck street. Lining the walls is artwork by local artists that cafe patrons can buy.
And I haven’t even talked about the food, yet! The calm, unhurried atmosphere of the cafe translates into food that is prepared with care and precision.
I’ve been coming here about every other month for the last year or so to get breakfast and catch up with a friend. My go-to order is the Eggs Mediterranean, a plate that comes with two perfectly poached eggs on top of toasted slices of a country loaf bread, plus a serving of sliced cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, kalamata olives, and sliced cucumbers. I’ve also ordered the Eggs Polenta, which comes with two poached egg on top of a bowl of steaming polenta, garnished with blue cheese and carmelized onions. Yum!
The cafe allows for computers, and, indeed, there are frequently people with laptops getting work done. I appreciate that Guerilla doesn’t feel overrun with people on their computers. There are generally a few people working, while most of the folks coming in are there for a coffee and a nice meal.
Guerilla Cafe is owned and run by Andrea Ali. Ali, along with Keba and Rachel Konte opened Guerilla Cafe in 2006. Keba Konte sold sold his shares to Ali in 2014 to focus on building the now flourishing Red Bay Coffee.
It must be noted that Guerilla Cafe has outlasted more than one large chain coffee companies that had planted themselves nearby. Until last January, one of those big competitors was located literally right next door. I count it as a real gift to the community that Guerilla weathered the competition and is as strong as ever.
Follow them on Instagram to not only see what’s cooking but also to find out about events like artist receptions and musical performances. And let us know what you think when you go there!
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