Welcome to FAVA
At FAVA, nestled in Berkeley's vibrant culinary scene, two former Chez Panisse chefs have crafted a unique oasis of fresh flavors. Our story is rooted in a passion for healthy, delicious food that celebrates wholesome ingredients. With a menu that features handcrafted flatbreads and a delightful array of salads, each dish bursts with character—think falafel wrapped in vibrant herbs and roasted eggplant mingling with creamy feta. We prioritize quality and connections, ensuring every meal is a nourishing experience. Enjoy it as you savor our inviting atmosphere, whether picking up takeout or enjoying a moment at our sidewalk tables. Welcome to FAVA!
- 2114 Vine St, Berkeley, CA 94709 Hotline: (510) 944-7010
Discover FAVA: A Culinary Gem in Berkeley
Nestled in the heart of Berkeley at 2114 Vine St, FAVA is redefining the way we think about healthy eating. This vibrant eatery, operated by two former Chez Panisse chefs, specializes in fresh salads and delightful flatbread sandwiches that are as nourishing as they are delicious.
FAVA offers a thoughtful menu that caters to the health-conscious without compromising on flavor. Think of their standout offerings:
- Salads: Dive into the Beets W Warm Lentils/Cucumbers, Herb Salad featuring yogurt and a perfectly cooked egg, or savor the Escarole W/ Melon/Spicy Almonds/Basil & Bulgur—each priced at an incredible $13.00.
- Falafel Flatbread Sandwich: Stuffed generously with cabbage, yogurt, and a medley of fresh herbs, this sandwich is a must-try at $14.00.
- Beverages: Refresh yourself with their rejuvenating Greens Cucumber Lime or indulge in the creamy Kesar Mango Lassi for just $5.00.
One of the highlights at FAVA is their commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients. Customers rave about the herbs that adorn their dishes, describing them as vibrantly aromatic and bursting with flavor. “The falafel sandwich is absolutely stuffed with fresh herbs!” shared a satisfied patron, echoing the sentiments of many who adore this warm, inviting spot.
Another crowd favorite is their Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookie, revered for its crispy edges and soft, warm center loaded with chocolate. At only $4.00, it’s a must-try dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with the nuttiness of tahini.
FAVA's small, take-out-focused setup, equipped with a couple of outdoor tables, gives it a charming, neighborhood feel. Most customers opt for takeout, savoring their meals on the go. With limited hours from Tuesday to Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., be prepared to line up with fellow salad and sandwich enthusiasts ready to indulge in these wholesome delights.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, FAVA invites you to taste their fresh, vibrant offerings and experience their friendly service. Grab a meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body, all while enjoying the sunshiny vibe on the streets of Berkeley.

The food at Fava is always fresh, healthy and delicious! I'd love a bit more variety in the menu but happy that the quality is always high and they don't skimp on the portions.

This is my favorite lunch spot in Berkeley! I have eaten everything and I mean everything on the menu. When I was pregnant I could't even drive away with takeout because it was so good, I would devour the food before I left. I believe my baby is extra healthy because of that chicken wrap!!!

Really good small take-out spot. I usually get the (open faced?) falafel sandwich that is absolutely stuffed with fresh herbs (dill, mint, and I forget what else!). It is simply the best. There are some tables/chairs set out on the sidewalk, but this is a small spot with no indoor seating. I usually just get food to go.

the tahini cookie + a green juice (no ice) are my go to. EVERYTHING is amazing!! such a sweet vibe, fresh and thoughtful food & lovely people.

Food fresh and delicious / you can see kitchen and cook . Use fava beans and lots of fresh herbs and green . Small literally hole in the wall place - does have a couple of tables by sidewalk- best for takeout . Service was personable and prompt.

The person who took my order here infected me with their smile. I was all smiley after I left here. A good smile spreads easily. I was fine living my life without searching for a cure. I hope I infected others. The falafel sandwich gave me even more of a reason to smile, it was delicious.

Friday 2024/03/22 12:30 - super busy, with a constant line at the cashier - I ordered take-out on their website but ate at one of their tables on the sidewalk Spicy Chicken Flatbread Sandwich ($15.50 + $2.00) (Add One Falafel): "Grilled organic chicken nestled in a handmade flatbread with harissa, marinated cabbage, yogurt, Serrano chilli's and herb salad" - every ingredient was super fresh, especially the abundance of mint and parsley on top - chicken thigh was tender and flavorful - they gave me what seemed like one and a half falafel, which was nice - serrano chilies were too spicy for me, so I ended up picking them out - flatbread was slightly over-kneaded, which made it too chewy Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookie ($4.00) - I saw they packed my cookie fresh from the oven and still warm; heavenly - crispy at the edges and soft inside, with ample discs of chocolate - not too sweet and very balanced with the savoriness of sesame Mango Lassi ($5.00): "12oz. Mango puree and [whole-milk] yogurt." - very creamy and mild on the mango flavor (not overly sweet or tart)

Let's give it up for healthy, fresh eats. With the world getting ever so expensive, paying $20 for a healthy and equally delicious meal, needs some love. I went with the salmon plate featuring Mt Lassen Steelhead with tabbouleh, broccoli, beets, cabbage slaw, herb salad and yogurt. While not the largest amount of food, and I wish there were more yogurt... it was bright, fresh and so good and felt healthy. Not to mention, that tahini chocolate chip cookie? DAMMMNNN. It's a good one. This spot is to-go only, it's open limited hours, but oh so worth it if you are looking for a freshy, healthy lunch.

This place is so cute! Fava you stole my heart and your falafel sandwich stole the show! Located on Vine Street in Berkeley, Fava is a vibrant hole in the wall and hidden gem to this area. There is what seems to be a new(er) cupcake shop next door and a spot called the Filling Station to refill your own bottles of personal and household products. With limited hours (Tuesday-Saturday) from 11a-3p, Fava serves amazingly fresh "lunch from a window" with some outdoor seating if you can't wait to indulge. Two former Chez Panisse chefs started Fava and quite honestly, we're so happy they did! Handmade flatbreads, incredibly fresh ingredients with protein choices including steelhead, braised lamb, spicy chicken, and falafel. Also on the menu you can find fresh soups and sides, juices, and my personal favorite, Tahini chocolate chip cookies. To note, you can preorder your lunch ahead online for the next day if you want to just grab & go without waiting in line. It was such a seamless process and honestly quite the vibe picking up! As soon as they opened their doors, funky music was illuminated the street and I could literally have hung out there for a while listening to the tunes and enjoying the ambiance. Great service, clean food, can't wait to come back!

Fava is my recent obsession. I love love love their lentil soup. Literally revives your dead winter soul and you feel reborn. Not kidding. Also, very great for sick peoples because it is hearty and full of nutrients and is satiating. I also love their tahini chocolate cookie. I tried to replicate it at home, but alas to no success. I've also tried the spicy chicken sandwich, which makes for a pleasant and light lunch. It was full of mint and other herbs. Very nice. Must gets!!! - Red Lentil Soup w/ Kale & Herb Yogurt - Tahini Chocolate Cookie