Great Food, Entertainment, and Local Gatherings

One of the best things about summer in our area is that local restaurants do much more than serve great food—they create places for neighbors to gather, relax, and enjoy live entertainment. There’s something happening nearby all season long. If you're looking for ways to enjoy the season, here are a few local favorites.

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Kensington Food Trucks

1 Kensington Park Rd (www.kensingtonfoodtrucks.com)

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The newest addition to the local summer scene is Kensington Food Trucks, launched by local moms Rachel Wood and Meghan Murphy in partnership with KCSD and KCC. Held on the second Friday of each month at Kensington Park, the event brings together a rotating lineup of food trucks, music, and neighbors looking to enjoy a summer evening outdoors. Upcoming performers include Shivan Luca on July 10, The Landlines on August 14, and Great Space Coaster on September 11. With different food trucks expected each month, every event offers something new.

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Kensington Circus Pub

389 Colusa Ave., Kensington (www.kensingtoncircuspub.com)

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With its welcoming atmosphere and great food, the pub is known for its commitment to supporting musicians, with no cover charge for performances. It's a great place to discover some of the Bay Area's best local bands while enjoying a pint with friends. Live music takes place every Friday and Saturday evening from 8:00 p.m. until close, with occasional performances on Thursdays and Sundays as well.

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Overlook at Tilden

10 Golf Course Dr., Berkeley (www.overlookattilden.com)

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The Overlook continues to host a variety of family-friendly events. With no entry fee or RSVP required, visitors can enjoy live music and patio entertainment on July 10 and 17, as well as August 14 and 29, with local musicians and DJs helping create a lively atmosphere from late afternoon into the evening. On July 18, Cacklemore Comedy brings laughs to the patio with a comedy show from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Don’t miss Family Night on August 21, featuring back-to-school supply giveaways, face painting by East Bay Face Painters, and activities for all ages from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

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Sailing Goat

1900 Stenmark Dr., Richmond (www.sailinggoatrestaurant.com)

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Few venues can match the setting of Sailing Goat at Point San Pablo Harbor. Throughout the summer, guests can enjoy waterfront performances every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday against a scenic harbor backdrop. Musicians perform regularly, making it an ideal destination for an afternoon or evening by the water. Check their event calendar for upcoming performances.

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Natural Grocery Company’s Prepared Food Annex

10387 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito (www.naturalgrocery.com)

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For a more casual midweek outing, the Prepared Food Annex at the El Cerrito Natural Grocery Company hosts an eclectic lineup ranging from jazz and hip-hop to folk and world music every Wednesday evening from 6:00–8:30 p.m. Combined with access to the café and bar, it's an easy way to break up the week while supporting local musicians and enjoying fresh, locally focused food.

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Benchmark Pizzeria

1568 Oak View Ave., Kensington (www.benchmarkpizzeria.com)

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Benchmark Pizzeria will be participating in a special community arts event on July 25 from 1:00–3:00 p.m. The restaurant will be open for drinks and quarter-slices while several businesses around Colusa Circle showcase local artists and their work. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy great pizza, support local businesses, and experience the creativity that makes our community unique.

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Dolly’s

10172 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito

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Our favorite Italian tavern—and home of the famous cheese wheel—will launch Dolly's Wine Club this summer, featuring hand-selected wines, exclusive discounts, and member perks, including special events and tasting experiences. A late-summer launch event will take place August 28 from 6:00–9:00 p.m. with dinner specials and a wine tasting.

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Enjoy the Season

Summer offers plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors, discover Bay Area talent, and enjoy the vibrant restaurant scene right here in our community. Whether you're listening to live music by the bay, laughing through a comedy show, or sharing a meal with friends on a patio, these local spots are helping make the season memorable.