Event Venue Guide

Book your next event or gathering in Downtown Berkeley

Private Dining | Small Venues | Large Venues

Private Dining: 10-50

A dimly lit restaurant with a long wooden table set for a meal, with plates, glasses, and napkins arranged neatly. Candles line the walls and a vine pattern decorates a red wall on the right.

Comal

Capacity: 23

2020 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 926-6300 | More Information

COMAL is a gathering place located in Berkeley’s bustling Arts District that serves woodfired Mexican food. The restaurant is housed in a hundred year old building that features a lush, secluded rear patio with a full bar, covered dining area and al fresco beer garden with fire pit. Comal has appeared multiple times in the SF Chronicle Top 100 list since opening in 2012.

  • Table 30 - community table for groups of 8-11

  • Abajo - private basement dining room for 12-22

  • Full Buyouts - book the entire restaurant for 75-200+ people

  • Patio Buyouts - covered patio and al fresco beer garden for 75-150 people

  • Patio Picnics - exclusive use of the patio/ beer garden for parties of 25-100
    people

A long dining table set for a meal with white tablecloth, arranged with wine glasses, silverware, napkins, and a floral centerpiece, in a restaurant with brick walls, wooden chairs, and windows.

Revival Bar + Kitchen

Capacity: 40-55

2102 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 549-9950 | More Information

Revival Bar+Kitchen is happy to offer a private dining room for your special event. They provide beautiful, flavorful, responsibly sourced food, smooth, attentive service, and a lovely space for your group to enjoy. Their mission is to want your experience with them to be seamless, pleasing, and memorable for every guest you invite.

  • Private Dining Capacity: 40 people

  • Full AV set with sound

  • Full buyouts of entire space available (up to 140 seated, 200 standing).

  • Food is sustainably, responsibly sourced; organic and local ingredients

  • 1 block from the UC Berkeley campus and BART

  • Centrally located in Downtown Berkeley

Small Venues: 70-300

The image shows a theater auditorium with an audience seated facing a stage. On the stage, there is a large screen displaying the logo of Aurora Theatre Company, with a man speaking at a podium.

Aurora Theatre

Capacity: 50 - 150

2081 Addison St, Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 843-4822 | More Information

As the storyteller for our community, Aurora Theatre Company inspires new audiences and longtime theatre lovers alike with the visceral power of live theatre. Our venues, the most intimate professional stages in the Bay Area, highlight great acting, nuanced language, and an immediacy that makes for exhilarating theatre.

  • Non Profit Discount Rates

  • Available for auditions, rehearsals, classroom, and meetings

An empty auditorium with rows of red theater seats and a curved wooden stage. The ceiling has recessed lighting and wood paneling.

Berkeley City College

Capacity: 230

2050 Center St. Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 981-2840 | More Information

Berkeley City College’s mission is to promote student success, to provide our diverse community with educational opportunities, and to transform lives.

  • Auditorium Capacity: 228 (including 2 handicap areas)

  • Atrium Capacity: 170

  • Classroom Capacity: 45-50

Empty chairs arranged in rows in a conference room or waiting area.

Berkeley Public Library, Central

Capacity: 110

2090 Kittredge St. Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 981-6100 | More Information

The Berkeley Public Library has served the people of Berkeley since 1893 and looks forward to providing many more years of community service. The Library is one of the most heavily used libraries in California, serving a local population of 118,950 and more from the surrounding area. (US Census estimate as of July 1, 2022) The Central Library, located in downtown Berkeley, and four recently renovated branches ensure easy library access for residents in Berkeley’s many and diverse neighborhoods.

  • Chairs and tables are also available.

  • The Central Community Meeting Room has a projector, screen, and PA system.

Interior view of a dimly lit pool hall with multiple pool tables illuminated by hanging pendant lights. There are stools and tables along the sides, and a person can be seen in the background.

The Breakroom

Capacity: 250

2021 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 705-1879 | More Information

New downtown Berkeley venue with 12 full size pool tables, 2 bars, good food and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. A great place to have fun for individuals or large groups such as birthday and graduation parties. We have weekly pool tournaments and plan on having Karaoke and djs soon. We have 8,000 square feet of 12 full size pool tables, 2 bars, indoor and outdoor seating and capacity of 250 people.

  • 12 pool tables,

  • Table seating,

  • High quality sound system,

  • Full Service On-Site Catering

  • 2 Full Bars on 2 floors

  • Student Discounts

  • One block from the Downtown Berkeley BART and multiple bus lines

Empty auditorium with red chairs, wooden panel walls, and a large black screen at the front.
Empty conference room with rows of black chairs, a podium in the corner, and decorative wall art of a fish.
An event space with round tables covered in black tablecloths, each decorated with a small floral centerpiece, scattered with papers and pens, and surrounded by black chairs; the wall features sketches of animals including a bear, birds, and a deer, and the room has large windows letting in natural light.

David Brower Center

Capacity: 250

2150 Allston Way. Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 809-0900 | More Information

The David Brower Center is committed to hosting low-impact, environmentally conscious events in stylish convening spaces. Their five rental spaces are perfect for a wide range of private and public events, including celebrations, conferences, receptions, and meetings.

  • Discounted rates to nonprofit, educational, and governmental groups.

  • Brower Center staff handles on-site logistics so you can focus on planning a great event.

  • All rooms are designed with attractive, non-toxic, sustainable materials.

  • High-quality equipment features audio reinforcement by Meyer Sound.

  • Discounts are available for multiple space bookings

  • Onsite public parking garage

  • One block from the Downtown Berkeley BART and multiple bus lines

Empty restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, decorated with hanging wicker lights and green plants, large windows letting in natural light.

Gather Kitchen

Capacity: 26-150

2200 Oxford St. Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 809-0400 | More Information

  • Greenhouse Patio: 55 seated or 100 standing (can combine for more capacity)

  • Main Dining Room: 70 seated or 100 standing (can combine for more capacity)

  • Bamboo Garden: 26 seated

Since 2009, Gather has offered local, organic, ethically sourced food and drink in a warm, sustainably created space with both indoor and outdoor seating. Equally popular with omnivores, vegans, and vegetarians, we are committed to ever-evolving to serve the diverse community we reside in

  • Sit-Down Dining, Wine Receptions, Buffet, Seminar-Style

  • Live Music & Dancing Allowed

  • Audio Visual Available

  • Menus are individually tailored to suit your needs and budget.

  • Full Restaurant Buyout available for 180 seated guests or a standing reception for up to 250

An indoor event space decorated with white cocktail tables draped with cloth, each with a red and white centerpiece featuring the Washington State Cougars logo. There is a stage with a DJ setup, red curtains, and lighting. The atmosphere is festive, likely for a party or celebration.

Cornerstone

Capacity: 180

2367 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 214-8600 | More Information

Cornerstone offers 13,000 sq feet in one of the newest and one of the most exciting venues in the East Bay. The new Harman / JBL Compact Line Array system has been acoustically mastered to provide one of the best concert experiences in the Bay Area. Its spacious layout provides for up to three green rooms, VIP mezzanine viewing, and excellent sight lines throughout the space.

  • Tables and chairs

  • Full PA system and lights

  • Full bar with premium spirits, wine, and craft beer

  • Food and Beverage Team available to assist you in planning your special event

  • Custom menu offerings, including buffet-style catering.

An empty small theater or comedy club with a stage, red chairs, and black curtains.

The Marsh Berkeley

Capacity: 180

2120 Allston Way Berkeley, CA 94704

(415) 282-3055 | More Information

This multi-level venue includes an 1850 sq ft theater area, as well as a 3000 sq ft mezzanine level, and can accommodate approximately 250 people. The rooftop terrace, which boasts a panoramic view, is a great addition to any gathering.

  • Flexible set-up options

  • Accommodates 10 ~ 250 people

  • Audio/visual equipment on premises

  • Tables & chairs available

  • Kitchen/Prep Area w/sink, refrigerator, and ice machine

  • Centrally located in Downtown Berkeley

  • 1/2 Block from UC Campus, BART, and validated parking

Interior of a bar with a long wooden counter, chairs, bar equipment, a large mounted manta ray, a spinning wheel, and wall-mounted screens, with brick and wood decor.

Spats Bar

Capacity: 250

1974 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 841-7225 | More Information

Spats boasts a full bar and events ranging from live music, DJs, and dance parties to sports game days, charity fundraisers, and political debate gatherings; whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

  • 2 blocks from BART, next to Berkeley Way Parking Lot

  • Semi Private dining room - catering available, private bar, 3 TVs, private entrance, seating for up to 40 -

  • Game room - 2 TVs, pool table, pinball, seating up to 20

  • Jungle room - private bar, catering available, stage and DJ equipment, dance
    floor, seating for up to 50

  • Partial venue buyout of 100 - 250 ppl

Interior of a modern lounge or restaurant with bar seating, leather chairs, round tables, large windows with city skyline view, and warm lighting.

Study Hall Rooftop Lounge (Marriott)

Capacity: 20-200

2121 Center St (12th Floor) Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 982-0114 | More Information

Study Hall Rooftop Lounge sits high atop the brand new Residence Inn Berkeley in Berkeley, CA, with iconic views of the San Francisco Bay area. The rooftop lounge is the quintessential location to experience the best views in Berkeley including spectacular golden hour photo-ops and colorful sunsets. The restaurant evokes local libations and craft cocktails in tandem with Oceana and Asian-inspired cuisine and was voted Best New Bar of 2022 by Nosh readers. Located on the 12th floor of the hotel located at 2121 Center Street in downtown Berkeley, CA.

  • Our team of professionals will walk you through all aspects of planning your special event. Take the guesswork out of selecting an extensive menu. Here, we make things easy with a variety of pre-approved selections.

Interior of a cozy restaurant with wood floors, a fireplace, and large arched windows, decorated with warm lighting and vintage-style chandeliers.

Tupper and Reed

Capacity: 185

2271 Shattuck Ave Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 859-4472 | More Information

A full buyout is available at Tupper & Reed, a historic staple in the Bay Area and an amazing space to host your guests for a private event. They offer an array of options based on your event needs and group size.

  • 5 bartenders

  • 3 cocktail servers

  • Hosts and Security

  • Full-service catering

  • Rhoades Green Room: up to 35 people

  • Balcony Bar: up to 80 people

  • Full Venue Buyout Available: up to 185 people

Large Venues:
300-1000+

Empty theater or auditorium with a stage, black walls, and rows of black seats with wooden armrests, a person working on the side.

Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Capacity: 500 - 1000

2025 Addison St. Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 647-2949 | More Information

Berkeley Rep is available to organizations for a wide range of events. Various facilities and spaces are available throughout the year to accommodate events of all sizes and types, and non-profit rates are available for qualifying community organizations. Berkeley Rep operates several facilities, including two theatre buildings, an adjoining courtyard, an education center, rehearsal space, and meeting rooms. When not in use for Berkeley Rep’s programming, classes, or ancillary events, these spaces are available to licensees for a variety of uses, including performances, lectures, meetings, rehearsals, receptions, special events, and other activities. In most cases, Berkeley Rep has the ability to customize our spaces to meet your individual event needs.

  • Audio Visual Included

  • Concessions and Merchandising Available

  • Sound System from Meyer Sound Lab

An empty room set up for a presentation or lecture with rows of multicolored chairs, a table with cables, and a front desk area. There are framed pictures and a poster on the walls, and the room has large windows letting in natural light.

Dharma College - Co-Working with Wisdom

Capacity: 500 - 1000

We offer a wide variety of event rental spaces in an inspiring, elegant environment. Whether you’re hosting a small reception or an urban retreat, we have options to match your needs. Space Dimensions: 2600.0 sqft

  • All A/V packages, Including PA system, projector

  • Catering available, including coffee/tea service

  • Furniture: chairs/tables

  • Meditation and mindfulness programming available

  • 2 Block from Downtown Berkeley BART

  • Wifi

2222 Harold Way Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 704-1105 | More Information

The facade of a theater called The Freight in Berkeley at night, with a marquee advertising live music and supporting local music, and people gathered both outside and inside the venue.

The Freight

Capacity: 490

2020 Addison Street, Berkeley, CA 94704.

(510) 644-2020 | More Information

Since its founding in 1968, Freight & Salvage has been deeply rooted in that aspect of Berkeley’s culture that embraced freedom, justice, acceptance, collaboration, and innovation. The Freight is mission-driven and has become a world-famous venue for traditional music– music that is rooted in and expressive of the great variety of regional, ethnic, and social cultures of peoples throughout the world.

  • Sound System from Meyer Sound Labs

  • Dedicated Sound Engineer

  • Some Concessions Available

  • 2 blocks from the UC Berkeley campus

  • 1/2 block from BART

Empty auditorium with chairs arranged in rows, large screens on the wall, and a marked sign reading "AUDITORIUM."

Magnes Collection of Jewish Art & Life

Capacity: 300

2121 Allston Way, Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 643-2526 | More Information

The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life was established in 2010 following the transfer of the Judah L. Magnes Museum to the University of California, Berkeley. As one of the world’s preeminent Jewish collections in a university setting, it provides highly innovative and accessible resources to both researchers and the general public.

  • Spaces Offered

    • Theatre/Lecture: 200 people

    • Banquet: 150 people

    • Reception: 300 people

  • Approved Caterers List

  • Audio-visual, chairs, and tables available

  • Staging area available for caterers

A banquet hall with round tables set for an event, with white tablecloths, blue napkins, glassware, and silverware, and large windows and glass doors providing natural light.

Marriott Residence Inn

Capacity: 300 - 517

2121 Center St. , Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 982-2100 | More Information

Experience an energizing getaway at the Gold LEED Certified Residence Inn Berkeley. Relax and recharge in expansive hotel accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, separate living spaces, and a thoughtful collection of modern amenities. Gear up for a full day of business or sightseeing with a free breakfast buffet serving healthy and hearty options.

  • 6 Event spaces – 14,000 sq ft total indoor/outdoor event space

  • Full-Service Hotel – catering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and reception

  • Full buyouts of entire space available (up to 120 seated)

  • 1 block from the UC Berkeley campus

  • Centrally located in Downtown Berkeley

  • 2 blocks from BART

Elegant banquet hall with round tables covered in white tablecloths, adorned with flower centerpieces, black patterned chairs, and a stage with a large screen displaying 'Hotel Shattuck Plaza'. The room features tall, arched windows, chandeliers, and chandeliers with soft lighting.

Shattuck Plaza Hotel

Capacity: 100 - 700

2086 Allston Way, Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 845-7300 | More Information

Old World Style, New World Amenities. With newly renovated rooms, a Mediterranean-inspired menu at ZINO Restaurant and Lounge, and a beautifully appointed indoor/outdoor flexible meeting space with environmentally mindful features throughout, we invite you to experience our beautiful hotel. Flexible set-up is available for any event.

  • Audio Visual and Sound Equipment

  • ZINO Restaurant and Lounge available for partial and full buy-outs

  • Fitness center & complimentary Downtown Berkeley YMCA Access Passes

  • Berkeley Repertory Theatre 0.25 miles away

  • California Memorial Stadium 0.40 miles away

  • Greek Theatre at UC Berkeley 0.80 miles away

  • 1/2 block from BART

Large banquet hall decorated with purple curtains, chandeliers, and colorful balloons hanging from the ceiling. Multiple tables are set with plates, glasses, and napkins, arranged in front of a stage with bright lights and a band performing.
Elegant banquet hall decorated with large chandeliers, purple lighting, round tables with place settings, and a stage with a large digital screen.

UC Theatre

Capacity: 1,400

2036 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704

(510) 356-4000 | More Information

Email: specialevents@theuctheatre.org

The iconic, newly renovated UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall is a premier East Bay music venue and special events destination. It is an exciting, multi-tiered, all-ages music venue with a state-of-the-art Meyer Leopard Sound system, theatrical lighting, a dancefloor, as well as a full-service restaurant and several bars. 1,000 capacity reception style, 550 theatre style, and 400 banquet style.

  • Audio visual included

  • Centrally located in Downtown Berkeley

  • Furniture and equipment rentals, photography, entertainment booking, PA systems, custom lighting, live entertainment, and music booking

  • Catering and can suggest preferred vendors

  • 2 blocks from BART