Guerilla Cafe, located at 1620 Shattuck Ave., was a cafe, art gallery, safe space, and source of inspiration for the Berkeley community. The name came from the revolutionary fighters who are part of unconventional groups that protest against larger forces. Guerilla Cafe’s style harnessed this revolutionary spirit with a focus on activism. This could be seen in the table markers given to customers, which featured facts about lesser known historic freedom fighters. “It’s a way to educate people,” Andrea Ali, the owner of the cafe, said. Guerilla Cafe closed its doors on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025.
The name Guerilla Cafe pays homage to Ali’s social justice background and the progressive culture of Berkeley and Berkeley High School. Ali grew up in the Bay Area and graduated from BHS in 1996. Attending BHS and making change as a student inspired the philosophy of the cafe, which Ali co-founded with Keba and Rachel Konte. “We protested, like every other week we would go to protest. And we just wanted to highlight that history of the Bay Area. So we chose the name ‘Guerilla.’ But really, to me, it means heroes,” Ali said.
The menu at Guerilla Cafe was inspired by a few different cuisines, including Mediterranean cuisine and classic brunch food. The polenta was a favorite among customers and staff alike. They also offered gluten-free options, most notably the gluten-free avocado toast. In addition to baked goods and breakfast dishes, they served coffee and specialty drinks. The subtle sweetness of the horchata latte warmed customers’ throats and hearts.
Creativity was another prominent feature of Guerilla Cafe. Ali is a ceramic artist, and her creative identity shaped all aspects of the cafe. All of the staff were artists of some medium too: writers, musicians, visual artists, and more. There was always an art show covering the walls, showcasing local artists, and adding to the unique ambience. “It’s a great place, even more so than galleries, because over 100 people will see your work in a day or two,” Ali said. These exhibitions were an alternative yet effective way for local artists to get exposure and sell their work, while also adding ambience to the space.
According to customers, the community and atmosphere were Guerilla Cafe’s most important aspects. Michaela Guerrera, a BHS girls lacrosse coach and regular at Guerilla Cafe, found the cafe to be a cultural melting pot, attracting a wide variety of customers. “It feels like a culture hub. It feels like history is being made here, and it feels very intellectual,” Guerrera said. Yonhei Lee, another cafe regular, said, “I also know that the owners and the people here really care about the community, which makes me feel excited to be here. I’m queer, so I feel like coming in here, I just feel safe,” Lee said, “This place has felt like home since I moved to the Bay Area.”
Although Guerilla Cafe became a beloved Berkeley small business, Ali wasn’t confident it would work out in the early stages of development. “You can really do anything you put your mind to. Like I said before, I never owned a restaurant, but I figured it out step by step. And, you know, asking my elders and asking for help and going to the city and so really, I guess my takeaway is for, you know, especially high school students, don’t put any limitations on what you can or can’t do,” Ali said.
Unfortunately, the Cafe’s 20-year lease expired on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025. While the Berkeley community will no longer be able to enjoy their meals, warm atmosphere, and art displays, the memory of it will live on for all of its unforgettable characteristics.