When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
Little Gem Belgian Waffles
Why Little Gem Belgian Waffles is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Little Gem Belgian Waffles, established in 2015 and located on Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley, CA, is the Bay Area's only specialty shop dedicated to authentic Liege waffles. Known for their unique handcrafted approach, they prepare their waffles daily in small batches using a yeast-rising brioche dough that is crispy on the outside and fluffy and moist on the inside. Integral to their magic is the use of Belgian pearl sugar baked into the waffle, which caramelizes during cooking, creating irresistible sweet pockets and a distinct, enchanting aroma. This artisanal focus makes Little Gem a fantastic place for friends to gather and enjoy a decadent treat with a European flair. The shop also offers a variety of flavor combinations as well as options to customize your waffle, appealing to many tastes and preferences. Though it offers quick service, the emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and the craftsmanship of the Liege waffle experience make it a standout locale to meet, indulge, and socialize.
Here's what people think of Little Gem Belgian Waffles
As of recent, Little Gem Belgian Waffles holds a 4.5-star rating based on 246 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently rate Little Gem Belgian Waffles highly, with an average of 4.5 stars based on 246 reviews, reflecting widespread appreciation for the quality and authenticity of the waffles. Positive reviews often highlight the distinctive texture and flavor of the Liege waffles, praising the perfect balance of crispiness and moisture, as well as the delightful caramelized pearl sugar pockets. Many customers applaud the friendly service and the ability to customize their waffles with fresh toppings like strawberries, which adds a fresh and flavorful touch. On the other hand, some negative feedback focuses on the lack of dine-in options, as the establishment is primarily a takeout venue, which may limit the social experience for some guests. A few reviewers also mention the limited seating availability and occasional wait times during peak hours. Despite these minor concerns, the overall consensus is that Little Gem Belgian Waffles offers a memorable, delicious experience worth visiting for anyone craving authentic Belgian waffles in Berkeley. The combination of handcrafted quality, flavor variety, and a welcoming vibe make its reviews predominantly positive, encouraging many repeat visits and enthusiastic recommendations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Safira CA
My favorite waffle place in Berkeley. Whenever you walk pass through this place, you can't resist the sweet aroma coming from it, makes you wanna stop & buy the waffle. You can either order existing menu or customize your waffle. The waffle texture was great, it was crispy, with pearl sugar already baked together in it - a typical belgian waffle-. If you order with ice cream, just be carefull that the ice cream was easily melted. The price was cheaper 2 years ago, and then it kept getting more and more expensive 🥲 Unfortunately, they don't provide seating place. That's a shame. I usually seat in berkeley chess club at the nearest intersection of Telegrap Ave & Haste st, and pretending to play the chess lol. Or i just simply go to MLK building or Upper sproul hall only to eat this.
Mehool Mehta
Great waffles, no seating,only TOGO services. Mostly sweet waffles and they make fresh.No savory options.No parking
Sunny Han
I was there a couple of weeks ago and forgot to post my review. I went with some friends so we could order a variety - 1 plain and 3 with toppings. They were all absolutely delightful!! It's a shame there's no place to sit, but that won't deter me from grabbing more of these treats. Little Gem, indeed!
Yuan L.
The waffles are good! It’s not super sweet, the taste is just right. The waffles are crispy and you can customize your waffles as well! 🧇 *They don’t have indoor seating *Better order through the app (Snackpass) beforehand so you don’t need to wait so long
Snigdha Agarwal
A charming little shop with plenty of options. The Nutella and fresh fruit were well-portioned, but the ice cream could have been of higher quality. Overall, a delightful spot for a tasty dessert.
How to reach Little Gem Belgian Waffles
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Why Little Gem Belgian Waffles may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Little Gem Belgian Waffles with your friends?
Gathering with friends is all about sharing good times and great experiences, and Little Gem Belgian Waffles in Berkeley offers the perfect setting for exactly that. The moment you step inside, the inviting aroma of freshly made Belgian waffles surrounded by sweet and savory toppings promises a memorable meet-up. Rated an impressive 4.5 out of 5 from 246 reviews, this spot has clearly won the hearts of many who appreciate both the quality of the food and the friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re catching up after a hectic week, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a casual hangout, Little Gem combines cozy vibes with scrumptious treats that make every gathering feel special. The waffles are made fresh to order with an ideal crispness on the outside and soft inside, providing a satisfying indulgence for all tastes. Moreover, this is not just a place to eat but a destination where you and your friends can bond over customizing your own waffles with a variety of toppings, adding a fun, interactive element to your meetup. Ultimately, the combination of delicious food, welcoming ambiance, and the exciting experience of creating your perfect waffle makes Little Gem Belgian Waffles a top choice for socializing.
What activities can you enjoy at Little Gem Belgian Waffles for a group meetup?
Little Gem Belgian Waffles offers much more than just eating delicious waffles; it provides a variety of engaging activities ideal for groups. One of the most popular activities is their toppings bar, which invites everyone to personalize their waffles exactly how they like. This interactive experience encourages group members to share topping ideas, try new flavor combinations, and enjoy a hands-on food adventure that naturally fuels conversation and laughter. Beyond customization, groups can also enjoy “Waffles + Chicken” — a combination offering both sweet and savory delights, perfect for sharing among friends who have varied tastes. Many visitors praise the perfectly cooked chicken and the crispy, freshly made waffles, making it a versatile menu option that accommodates diverse preferences. Another highlight for groups is the late-night dessert atmosphere; the establishment serves as a go-to spot among friends craving a sweet treat after a long day or evening out. With its comfortable seating arrangements and laid-back vibe, Little Gem fosters social interaction, allowing groups to linger comfortably, chat, and create lasting memories over their food.
Why is Little Gem Belgian Waffles ideal for different types of group meetups?
Little Gem Belgian Waffles suits a broad range of group meetups, from casual friend gatherings to family celebrations and even corporate events. The venue’s menu flexibility, offering both sweet and savory options, ensures everyone’s cravings are satisfied. For families, the modest portion sizes and approachable flavors create an inclusive environment for kids and adults alike, while the fun experience of choosing toppings keeps young ones entertained. For friends, especially college students or young adults, the casual, hip vibe of the place pairs well with spontaneous meetups, late-night dessert sessions, and small celebrations. Additionally, the business provides exceptional catering services with a full toppings bar, which has been praised by various corporate clients such as Google and Cisco Meraki, highlighting its capacity to elevate professional gatherings and events. The owners’ responsiveness and attention to detail for catering requests underscore the level of service that groups can expect. Such versatility makes Little Gem a reliable spot no matter the occasion—be it a laid-back catch-up, a festive birthday, or a work event aimed at building team morale.
What makes the waffle experience at Little Gem Belgian Waffles unique?
The uniqueness of Little Gem Belgian Waffles lies in its signature Belgian waffles, crafted with a special “Liege” style iron that gives them a delightful balance of crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior. This texture is often praised in customer reviews, describing the waffles as perfectly fresh and delicious. What truly sets this spot apart, however, is the toppings bar, which allows customers the freedom to customize their waffles with anything from classic Nutella and fresh strawberries to more inventive choices like cookie butter and ice cream. This variety transforms dining into a creative experience where every visit offers a new taste adventure. Guests can make a sweet waffle masterpiece tailored to individual preferences or experiment with savory options, adding to the overall excitement of the meal. The aromas wafting around as the waffles cook create a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances the sensory delight of being there. This interactive ordering style combined with the quality of ingredients and considerate preparation means the waffle experience at Little Gem is vibrant, social, and memorable.
How does the customer service and atmosphere contribute to a great meetup?
Excellent customer service and a welcoming atmosphere are central to why Little Gem Belgian Waffles shines as a meetup destination. The staff are noted for being thoughtful and responsive, ensuring that even large groups or catered events run smoothly and that every detail is managed with care. Customer testimonials highlight the owners’ pride in their craft and genuine desire for guests to have an outstanding experience, which translates into attentive service during visits. The warmth of the team enhances the relaxed environment, making it easy for groups to feel comfortable, valued, and well taken care of. The aroma of fresh waffles and the casual yet vibrant setting create a friendly ambiance that encourages lingering and interaction. This atmosphere, combined with the excellent service, helps transform a simple meal into a memorable social occasion where guests can focus on enjoying each other’s company without distractions or discomfort.
What makes Little Gem Belgian Waffles a top choice compared to other late-night dessert spots?
Among the many late-night dessert choices, Little Gem Belgian Waffles stands out due to the combination of quality, variety, and ambiance. Unlike typical dessert places that might offer overly large or generic treats, Little Gem focuses on fresh, perfectly-sized waffles that satisfy a sweet craving without wastage. Their balance of crispness and softness with an extensive array of toppings allows for a personalized, gourmet experience that few competitors match. The option to add savory items like chicken also broadens the appeal, providing a unique sweet-savory combination rarely found in similar establishments. Moreover, the strong community reviews and their consistent 4.5-star rating from over 240 customers reflect a sustained level of satisfaction that builds trust for new patrons. The welcoming atmosphere and the fact that many customers return for both casual hangouts and special occasions make it more than just a dessert stop—it’s a beloved Berkeley institution for social gatherings.
How can Little Gem Belgian Waffles accommodate large groups or special occasions?
Little Gem Belgian Waffles excels in hosting large groups and special occasions, offering tailored catering services that bring the waffle experience to any event. They provide a full toppings bar setup for catered events, allowing guests to customize their waffles on-site, which adds an interactive and fun element to celebrations such as birthdays, corporate gatherings, or family reunions. The company’s proven track record includes successful events at venues like the San Mateo County Events Center and positive feedback from clients affiliated with prominent companies like Google and Cisco. The owners' attentiveness to detail ensures the planning and execution align perfectly with client expectations, including accommodating dietary preferences and event themes. Whether hosting at their location or delivering to a venue, their professional yet warm approach guarantees a memorable waffle experience that complements the event’s atmosphere. This flexible and comprehensive service makes Little Gem an excellent partner for anyone looking to impress guests with a delightful, engaging, and delicious gathering.
What should first-time visitors expect when coming to Little Gem Belgian Waffles?
First-time visitors can expect a friendly, inviting atmosphere and an easygoing ordering process that emphasizes freshness and customization. The focus on made-to-order Liege-style Belgian waffles means that each dish is crafted fresh, ensuring optimal taste and texture. Patrons can look forward to choosing from a versatile toppings bar that encourages experimentation with flavors, catering to a broad range of tastes, including classic sweets like Nutella and strawberries or unique selections like cookie butter and ice cream. The staff typically greet guests warmly and guide them through their options, making newcomers feel comfortable trying the menu. Seating is casual but comfortable, offering the perfect backdrop for conversation and relaxation. Reviews often note the perfect balance of crispness and softness in their waffles as well as the well-seasoned, juicy chicken options, giving new visitors confidence they’re in for a quality treat. Whether arriving as a group or solo, newcomers are likely to leave impressed and eager to return for future meetups.