About Berkeley Brew
Return to HomepageOur Mission
Berkeley Brew is a hyperlocal coffee app designed specifically for the UC Berkeley community. Our mission is to help students, faculty, and visitors discover the best cafes and coffee shops around campus, with a focus on study-friendly environments, sustainability, and community values.
We believe that great coffee fuels great ideas, and Berkeley is full of both. Our platform helps connect coffee enthusiasts with local businesses while providing unique insights into what makes each cafe special.
What Makes Us Different
Unlike generic review platforms, Berkeley Brew focuses on metrics that matter to our community:
- Grindability Score - How suitable the cafe is for studying and productivity
- Radical Score - Measures social justice and sustainability practices
- Vibe Score - Evaluates the aesthetic and ambiance of the space
- Student Friendliness Score - Evaluates the welcomeness of the cafe for students
- Golden Bear Score - The overall rating that is calculated by combining all the subscores, specifically tailored to Berkeley community needs
We also provide real-time information about open hours, crowd levels, and special events to help you find the perfect spot at any time of day.
Our Story
Berkeley Brew was founded in 2025 by UC Berkeley students who were frustrated with the lack of specialized information about local coffee shops. What started as a simple document of cafe ratings has evolved into a comprehensive platform serving thousands of coffee lovers in the Berkeley area.
Today, we're proud to be the go-to resource for finding the perfect study spot, meeting location, or simply a great cup of coffee in Berkeley. Our community-driven approach ensures that our reviews and ratings reflect the authentic experiences of real Berkeley students and residents.