Jay D.

Cody's Books

Cody's book is great, it is one of the best bookstores that I've been to. Cody's offers a great collection of books, of all types, and they have knowledgeable booksellers who can assist you in making your purchase. If you love reading books or just browsing books, you must go to Cody's book at least once, you will be impressed. Cody's books is what all bookstores should be, reasonable prices, great selection, and very knowledgable and courteous workers.

PROS: Everything
CONS:

Berkeley Ace Hardware

I don't understand why, but this seems to be a very popular place with people in Berkeley. Everyone thinks it's one of the best hardware stores in town, but I disagree. Everytime I go, they've been very uncourteous to me, just plain rude. They also make you leave your backback or bag at the door, which is just stupid, as no other hardware store does this. The people working there either are busy doing something else, simply don't know anything, or don't speak English, so don't expect to get any help.

I also hate the way the store is set up, as it seems really crowded. One time a dog took a poop on the carpet at the entrance, and instead of quickly removing the carpet and replacing it, they just tried to wash the poop away with a mop. I'm never going there again.

Dave & Busters

This is a great place for adults (it's 21 and over only, so no kids). They have tons of games you can play The arcade is great, although it's a lot more expensive than your typical kiddie arcade; I guess that's expected though, giving this place's location. Dave and Busters is located in the Great Mall, right next to the movie theater.

They also have a bar. making it a great place to go with a bunch of friends and have some fun.

Compusa

I went here to purcahse a new external hard drive and I wasn't very impressed. There was nobody there to help me and offer me some advice about the different brands they carried. I just ended up making a purchase based on what it said on the box, hoping it's the best choice possible. I asked them what their return policy is and they said it's 21 days, so at least I can return the product if I'm not satisfied.

I guess it's not too bad if you know what you need. Prices can be high compared to online stores though.

Staples

The staples in El Cerrito is great, I go here all the time when I need to buy office supplies. They always have everything I need in stock and their prices are very reasonable and competitive to the other office supply chains in the area.

The people are also very friendly, helpful, and courteous so I don't mind going here and asking for advice. I highly recommend this Staples, I've never had any problem here, returns are a breeze.

PROS: In stock, Service
CONS: None!

Au Coquelet Cafe Restaurant

I love this place, they are open very late (until 2AM if I recall correctly) and serve late dinner. It's the best place to go in Berkeley if you want to grab a late night coffee or just need a place to go study. Besides coffee, and other drinks they also serve food, such as burgers and sandwiches.

The service is great, they are very friendly, and the prices are reasonable.

Great Mall of The Bay Area

I like the Great Mall, there's a movie theater, a skate park, and oh yeah, Dave and Busters. There's plenty of stores where you can go shopping, and there is plenty of parking space available. Unlike other malls, the stores are really big and spacious; they are not as trendy and cozy as the stores at some of the other malls around the Bay.

This is the type of mall where you go to actually buy things, not just look around. I like it.

Golden State Warriors

Buy your season tickets now, the next season will be very excited. The Golden State Warriors WILL finally be making the playoffs, now that Baron Davis is here. The season is promising to be very exciting, with players such as Pietrus and Richardson fed by Davis.

The games at the arena are fun for the whole family and definitely something you need to go check out.

PROS: Warrior Girls
CONS:

Supercuts

I went there to get a haircut about a few days ago, and overall I am pretty satisfied. The wait wasn't long (about 15 minutes, there were about two other people in front of me). The cut was also pretty affordable, it's about $15, plus you can often find a coupon that brings the price down to $13. So with tip, it's around $14-$15 dollars.

You can also come back within 7 days if you are not satisfied with your cut and get it adjusted for free.

PROS: Price
CONS:

Mission Cliffs Climbing & Ftns

Mission Cliffs Climbing & Fitness Club is a good place to buy climbinb equpiment. They have all the workout gear that you would ever need. It definitely has more selections than any other place I've been to. I highly recommend this place because of their selection and because their prices are fair.