La Farine Bakery
La Farine sells delicious artisan breads, and supplies some of the local restaurants as well. They also have great pastries and croissants. The shop can get crowded, but it's worth the wait.
Molly B
Molly B offers interesting and unique women's clothing in the trendy shopping district on Fourth Street. Prices can be high, but you are also likely to find unique items at prices comparable to chain stores. I have had helpful service on the occasions I've been in.
Avant-card
Avant-Card is my favorite card shop. They offer an amazing selection of unique greeting cards, note-cards, stationery and gift items. Looking for something with a political bent? They'll have it. They don't carry your run of the mill Hallmark or Carlton cards. They do offer plenty of fun, beautiful, romantic and original cards for every occasion. I always end up buying more than I intended, but always find the perfect card.
Alliance Francaise De Berkeley
Alliance Franaise de Berkeley is a great place to learn French from native speakers. Classes are informal and groups are small; teachers are positive and supportive. AFB is a chapter of the Federation of Alliances Franaise. In addition to day and evening classes for a variety of skill levels, AFB offers a refresher course for travelers.
Pharmaca Integrative Pharmacy- Natural Medicine
Conveniently located in Rockridge next to Trader Joe's, Pharmaca offers traditional pharmacy as well as homeopathic and alternative medicines. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and it is always interesting to browse through the cards, soaps, publications, and other merchandise.
Martenson Jill A Dds - Piedmont Dental By Design
A colleague recommended Dr. Martenson when I moved to Berkeley last year and she is excellent. She is thorough, caring, careful and does everything possible to put patients at ease and ensure their comfort. Her hygienist, Julie, is excellent, too, as is the entire staff. I have never been kept waiting, and am completely satisfied with the treatment I receive.
Sawires Amal Md
I started seeing Dr. Sawires when I moved to Berkeley last year and she is fabulous. She is incredibly caring and professional, and goes out of her way to make herself available by phone, e-mail or fax. She has a background in clinical research and is very knowledgeable about issues related to aging and menopause. The follow-through of some of the support staff leaves something to be desired, and Dr. Sawires often runs behind, so bring a book. Once she arrives, though, you get her undivided attention.
Preston Michael C Dds
Dr. Preston is an excellent dentist - thorough, thoughtful, and caring. He has cared for our family for a number of years and always does a great job. His hygienist is wonderful and his staff is friendly and efficient.
Atlas Heating & Cooling
A work colleague recommended Atlas when we needed to replace the heating system in the home we purchased. The owner, Bob Tuck, and his staff were excellent. Bob came out and crawled all over our house, under the floors and in the walls, to provide an estimate of the best fix for our situation. The team were clean, professional and thorough. They cut into walls to add or replace ducting and vents and did such an amazing job it is impossible to tell where they did it. The system is efficient, and provides balanced comfort year round. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Dried & Tied
Dried & Tied is a charming gift shop with a wide range of gifts for any occasion. A visit here is a feast for the senses - with lovely, sweet-scented gifts including soaps and sachets. Many gifts are one-of-a-kind.