Amy Murray has been doing the farm-to-table thing in the East Bay for a very long time. So when she says it's Berkeley's turn for a Revival, I believe her.
She's the Chef/Co-Owner of Venus Restaurant also in Berkeley (where she's been dishing up seasonal, organic and sustainable food for almost 10 years).
Her latest venture is the newly opened Revival Bar + Kitchen where she describes the menu as - snout to tail, root to shoot and all from scratch.
AND she's an enthusiastic supporter of the food movement that is Farmer Jane.org about which she was quoted as saying - "I am constantly inspired by women who roll up their sleeves, bring their hearts, souls and feminine touch to their work".
Michael Brennan did an excellent job with the restaurant design, which features reclaimed wood, great plaster effects and lots of turn-of-the-century fixtures and accessories.
One review I read describes the bar as - "sexy saloon-meets-bordello vibe, with atmospheric lighting". I'd say that's spot on - just like their cocktail recipes.
Try the Spring Fling - gin, basil, ginger and a splash of fresh lime or the Farmer Jane - bourbon, orange tea liquor, strawberry, lemon, honey mint and soda.
Vive la Berkeley!