A Global Community That Feels Like Home
ICSI is more than a research institute—it’s a community. Our visitors find it easy to connect with ICSI’s research teams and other visitors during their stay, and many build friendships that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re coming to ICSI for a short visit or settling in for a longer research stay, you’ll find that Berkeley offers an inspiring blend of culture, cuisine, and nature—all within walking distance of our downtown office. There’s no better way to feel at home than diving into everything Berkeley has to offer!
Maps & Navigation
Points of Interest on the UC Berkeley Campus
- Doe Library: Main library of UC Berkeley
- Soda Hall: EECS Building
- BAIR: Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research Lab
- BRSL: Berkeley Risk & Security Lab
- Berkeley Faculty Club
- The Campanile: Second tallest bell-tower in the world
- The Gateway: Computing, Data Science, & Society Building
Food & Beverage Near ICSI
Berkeley is a foodie haven! Here are some spots to start with as you sip and sample your way through an enticing array of cuisines.
- Coffee spots to try: Caffè Strada, Peet’s Coffee, 1951 Coffee, Blue Bottle
- Pizza options include Cheese Board Pizza, Jupiter, and Sliver Pizzeria
- Chez Panisse: Iconic California cuisine ($$$)
- La Note: Provençal brunch, cozy patio
- Eureka!: Gourmet burgers
- The Butcher’s Son: Vegan deli & bakery
- Comal: Elevated Mexican and outdoor seating
- Angeline’s Louisiana Kitchen: Southern comfort classics
- Berkeley Social Club: Korean American dishes
- Fava: Lunch counter with fresh ingredients
- Ippuku: Intimate Japanese yakitori
Arts & Entertainment
- Berkeley Repertory Theatre: Award‑winning plays
- Freight & Salvage: Folk & world music
- BAMPFA: Art museum + film archive
- UC Theatre: Concerts & live music
- Greek Theatre: Outdoor amphitheater with Bay views
Outdoor Experiences
- Tilden Regional Park: Trails, botanic garden, kids’ steam train
- UC Berkeley Botanical Garden
- Angel Island State Park
- Berkeley Bicycle Trails
- Berkeley Marina: Walking paths, bay views
Berkeley’s International Community
In addition to the ICSI community, UC Berkeley is home to many international students and scholars. Explore these resources for additional support and ways to connect:
