Chabad Jewish Student Center at UC Berkeley

I visited with my daughter who plans on attending UCB in the Fall. Our experience was excellent from beginning to end. Both the Rabbi and the Rebbetzen were warm and very welcoming. It was a full house of good food and meeting students of intellect and substance. The speaker was also inspiring. I’d give them 10 stars if it were an option. Thank you.

Would it be possible for someone to write a bad review for a place which opens their doors to everyone under the sun to come and eat free food, listen to inspiring talks and gain a little more understanding into traditional Judaism?
Even if the food sucked, which it does not — who could give anything but a five star review to a place which serves some of the best challah I’ve ever tasted? So you don’t like the fact they serve their drinks in five ounce cups, they had to pay for those green 3 flush option toilets somehow.
I’m all about chabad houses which start services on time regardless of whether they have a minyan on time. I like the fact that Rabbi Gil and his wife Bracha are not preachy and it;s a plus that they are both graduates of UCB.

I am not Jewish but I frequently attend Chabad here at Berkeley. They have made me feel welcome and although it is a bit trite or cliché, their slogan of «a home away from home» really does apply. Every Jewish holiday, I am always greeted with welcome arms. The rabbi and rebbetzen really do take care to know everyone who comes even if you only come frequently and they really are brilliant with giving you the right amount of Jewish guilt for not coming. Despite being affiliated with Chabad, they are open to any Jew of any denomination or practice level or even non-​Jews (just ask me!)
The rabbi and rebbetzen did go to Cal and so they know how to relate to us as students. They are also open to the community and very involved on campus, which really shows their dedication and care.
The services are fantastic, as they now have a Torah. Shabbat services are held each Shabbat with services starting at around 7 or 7:30 and dinner starting promptly after at around 8:15 or 8:30. Shabbat morning services is about 10 am and it’s also where you can try the rabbi’s famous cholent! It’s AMAZING!
This place is all around great. The people are amazing. The rabbi and rebbetzen are fabulous. The food is ridiculous because it’s made with care, as if you were a part of the family, and plentiful. The lessons that are held each day of the week are very informative, relevant, and easily accessible. I just love Chabad! :)