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Farewell to Bartavelle: A Heartfelt Goodbye to a Berkeley Treasure

The Berkeley culinary scene is about to lose a beloved gem. Bartavelle, a cherished café that has been a staple since 2012, announced its impending closure on Instagram this past Sunday, September 8th. The news has left many customers shocked and saddened as they flocked to the café to show their support during its final days, which will conclude on September 15th.

A Legacy Built on Passion

Since taking over the former Café Fanny space, owner Suzanne Drexhage and her son Samuel Sobolewski transformed Bartavelle into a culinary cornerstone of the community. Under their guidance, the café flourished, even launching Bar Sardine in 2018—a nighttime spot that captivated West Berkeley’s artisanal food lovers with its wine and seasonal bites.

Challenges Faced During the Pandemic

• Transition to take-out: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bartavelle had to adapt by offering a limited take-out menu.
• Reopening hurdles: In 2023, the café reopened in a new location, but the challenges of sustaining a restaurant post-pandemic persisted.
• Financial strain: Despite being busy, the margins in the restaurant business remain razor-thin, exacerbated by the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.

Community Response and Support

The news of Bartavelle's closure has ignited an outpouring of love and support from the community. Marykate McGoldrick, owner of Sesame, A Tiny Bakery and a former Bartavelle employee, expressed her heartfelt sentiments on Instagram, highlighting the café's role in her journey as a baker.

Hope Amidst Uncertainty

In a bid to stay afloat, Drexhage and Sobolewski have launched a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising $85,000 to cover outstanding debts and payroll. They owe around $50,000 to vendors and are seeking any potential investors who believe in the café's mission, despite the inherent risks of the restaurant industry.

The Final Chapter

Barring any unexpected financial windfall, Bartavelle will serve its last meal on September 15th, marking the end of an era for Berkeley’s vibrant food culture. Located at 1621 San Pablo Ave., this café will be missed dearly by its loyal patrons.

What do you think?

• Should local governments do more to support small businesses like Bartavelle during economic downturns?
• Is the rise of ghost kitchens and delivery services contributing to the decline of beloved local eateries?
• How can the community better rally around local businesses to prevent closures?
• Is there a chance for Bartavelle to reopen under new management in the future?
• What role do social media campaigns play in saving struggling restaurants?