standard fare to close

in another loss for berkeley and the east bay, as announced on instagram and reported on by the chronicle – standard fare's chef-owner kelsie kerr aims to retire, and will shutter the cafe and restaurant on december 19.

despite the humble name, standard fare is known for its homey sophistication, with kerr's cooking pedigree (chez panisse, zuni) having drawn discerning locals and professionals to the artful, cozy, brick cafe space in west berkeley for 11 years. the cafe began in 2014 as a take-out window for composed salads, sandwiches, baked goods and elevated, seasonal cafe fare packed in reusable ceramics, and developed into a destination cafe with counter and outdoor seating for breakfast, lunch, and, starting last year, dinner, with a devoted following.

"the news is, i will be retiring at the end of the year, and standard fare will bid you all farewell," said kerr's post, that has since been peppered with loving notes and comments from a long list of friends and colleagues in the bay area food community. she ends simply with, "our last day will be december 19, and we look forward to seeing you. with much love and appreciation, kelsie and the standard fare team."

standard fare is at 2701 8th street in berkeley, and will close after service on december 19, 2025.

november 28, 2025