12% off to-go orders at Amanda's Berkeley

Monday's the last day to get 12% off all phone orders at Amanda's in downtown Berkeley. In celebration of the two 12-minute metered parking spots in front, the all-natural burger joint is offering the 12% discount.

While some people complain of the portion sizes, Amamda's is one of my go-to spots downtown for inexpensive, quick meals. Whenever I have a show at the Berkeley Rep, I stop by Amanda's for a quick bite and am out the door in 20 minutes or less. The naturally raised beef burgers ($3.75) are comparable to In-N-Out more than McDonald's, and the baked fries ($1.50) are deliciously crispy. For a healthier option, try the sweet potato ($1.75) or raw apple fries ($1.50).

In line with a restaurant that serves sustainable, organic food in biodegradable packing, Amanda's makes its own sodas ($1.75), from cola to ginger ale and raspberry. If all the above sounds good, grab a combo ($6.75) that includes a burger, regular fries and a soda.

Amanda's
2122 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley

Photo: Wilhelm Y.

$2 off pitchers & more at Triple Rock in Berkeley

Among the many brewpubs in Berkeley is Triple Rock Brewery and Ale House on Shattuck Avenue. Unlike the others, Triple Rock is one of the first five brewpubs in America and the only one of the five to still be owned by the people who started it. History aside, you should also go to Triple Rock for their deals and beer specials, especially if you are a beer drinker.

Today and every Tuesday, get $2 off any pitcher, which comes out to between $14 and $16 each. Every Thursday, try the in-house only, 8% A.B.V. Monkey Head Arboreal Ale at $9 per liter. For print-out coupons like 2-for-1 appetizers or a free pint with any burger, sandwich or entree, head to Berkeley Good Life.

I like my beers on the light side, so I stick with Red Rock Ale with my favorite burger, the A.B.S. (avocado, smoked bacon and swiss cheese). The food at Triple Rock is actually pretty good but limited to mostly burgers. With over 15 burgers and sandwiches, including vegetarian options, deciding can take a while. Vegans will have to stick with the smaller appetizer and salad menu. Seasonal brews are also a specialty, so ask your server if you are looking for something different.

While the deals are great, the slow service during dinner may dampen the experience. It takes a while to get noticed, takes a while to get your order, and takes a while to get your food. I have gone over a half-hour for my burger and have had to flag down the waiter for water, extra napkins and extra condiments. I don't think they are intentionally avoiding me as much as I think the waiters are that laid back. The staff here could easily blend in with the customers, mostly grad students and others a few years out of college who come to Triple Rock to unwind and toss back a few.

Triple Rock Brewery & Ale House
1920 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley