Gregoire’s crispy potato puffs have developed such a devoted following that people drive across the Bay Area just for them. The shop sits on San Pablo Avenue in Berkeley, and the menu blends French and California cooking styles in ways that feel both creative and grounded. You’ll find house-made charcuterie, seasonal vegetables prepared with serious technique, and daily specials that reflect what’s good at the market that week.

The setup works well for dogs. There’s outdoor seating where you can bring your dog to eat while watching the street, which in this part of Berkeley means a pretty steady stream of interesting people and neighborhood activity. The staff doesn’t treat dogs like afterthoughts—they’re genuinely welcoming about it, which changes the whole experience. You’re not squeezing your dog into a corner or feeling like you’re tolerated; you’re just part of the lunch crowd.

I’d recommend going mid-week if possible rather than weekends when the patio gets packed. The potato puffs really are worth the hype (they’re crispy on the outside, light inside, perfectly salted), but the rest of the menu holds its own. The portions are reasonable, the prices reflect the quality of ingredients, and they’re thoughtful about what they’re sourcing. The indoor space is small but comfortable, with good bones and natural light, though if it’s nice out you’ll probably want the patio anyway.

Parking on San Pablo can be tight, so give yourself a few minutes to find a spot. The place closes between lunch and dinner, so if you’re planning an afternoon visit, check their hours first—they’re not open straight through.