Mudrakers Café

Located in the heart of Berkeley at 2801 Telegraph Ave, Mudrakers Café is much more than your typical coffee shop; it’s a warm and inviting haven where excellent coffee meets genuine community spirit. Serving as a café, coffee shop, and casual restaurant, Mudrakers expertly blends Middle Eastern influences with classic café culture, delivering an experience that resonates beyond just your daily caffeine fix.

Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the spacious, quiet ambiance that so many local customers cherish. With ample seating and plentiful outlets at every table, Mudrakers is a haven for students, freelancers, and anyone seeking a peaceful spot to work, meet, or simply unwind. The atmosphere strikes a rare balance—it’s vibrant without the usual downtown hustle, and surprisingly free from the usual tech crowd distractions, as one loyal visitor put it, “miraculously not yet flooded with techie bros.”

The heart and soul of Mudrakers, owner Hazem (or Hazim), exudes warmth and genuine kindness. Customers frequently praise his attentiveness, noting how he engages personally, making each visit feel less transactional and more like catching up with a thoughtful friend. As Glen Kohler shared, “Hazim offers friendly, personalized service and is always up for a chat,” which enhances the café’s welcoming vibe.

When it comes to the menu, Mudrakers leaves no stone unturned. Their coffee selection is impressive, featuring everything from expertly brewed drip coffee to rich, aromatic Turkish coffee prepared in the traditional Palestinian style with cardamom—a standout drink that offers a fragrant, exotic twist for adventurous palates. Whether you prefer a comforting café au lait, a velvety latte, or a classic cappuccino, each cup is crafted with care and precision.

The café also offers an enticing array of sandwiches and light meals that perfectly complement the beverages. Popular choices like the Roast Beef Sandwich, Roast Turkey Panini, and the Falafel Sandwich showcase a blend of hearty, satisfying flavors with fresh, quality ingredients. For those craving something special, the Smoked Wild Salmon sandwich is a delicious treat with its delicate smokiness contrasted by fresh bread and crisp, vibrant toppings.

What truly elevates the dining experience here is the seamless fusion of practicality and indulgence. Items such as the “massive salad with meat & cheese” and the Middle Eastern platters not only nourish but delight the senses—balancing texture, aroma, and flavor in every bite without breaking the bank. Additionally, Mudrakers caters thoughtfully to dietary needs, offering gluten-free options that include everyone in the dining pleasure.

Beyond food and drink, the café’s soundscape is uniquely tranquil—there’s a noticeable absence of music, a deliberate choice that many patrons like Jess Riedel appreciate for creating a serene work and chat environment. This subtle yet impactful detail highlights Mudrakers’ commitment to a customer experience that prioritizes comfort and focus.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee to-go, settling in with a laptop for a few hours, or sharing a leisurely meal with friends, Mudrakers Café proves itself as a cherished Berkeley gem. It’s a place where thoughtful hospitality meets delicious offerings, creating a community hub that feels both familiar and refreshingly authentic.

Contact: +1 510-649-7315

Location: 2801 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA 94705, United States