I just read the reviews so I think I get the picture. Shoulda done that first! Sounds pretty expensive for very simple food simply prepared. I guess if you value "organic" more than anything else, it's your place.

Lunch is served only at the upstairs cafe. If you decide to go you should still make a reservation. IMHO the cafe upstairs in good but not not knock your socks off fantastic, Will you be staying in or going to Berkeley anyway or will you making a special trip? If your time is limited and you are staying in San Francisco without a car, it is possible to go there via public transportation but it will eat up quite a bit of time. The downstairs dinner is a whole experience. The cafe is always fresh, interesting and good but there are comparable options in San Francisco.

I'm staying in Berkeley for 4 days. I've known about Chez Panisse from the beginning but never ate there. Loads of flavor and well-prepared are what counts for me. Also I'm not into petite portions.

If you are going to be in Berkeley anyway, hey you may as well go for lunch. The portions are a fine size. You can have a glass of wine and "graze" a few things from the menu at the very least. Desserts are good too. Fantastic is a relative concept but as long as you don't expect to "have the best lunch you've ever had " you will leave there happy. If you want recommendations for not so famous but fun and more "ethnic" just post again.

Ethnic is great. I like the big flavors. I caught your El Cerrito dim sum posting. Thanks again for that one!