Northbrae is on Hopkins Street (between Gilman and The Alameda). Westbrae is just west on Gilman Street (roughly between Santa Fe and Hopkins). They're so close to one another, I included them together. These are two of the most affordable of Berkeley's pleasant neighborhoods. As an extra bonus, they're both within walking distance of North Berkeley BART and the North Berkeley Library (which, per Tim Aaronson, was designed by James Plachek (1936) who also did the Main and Claremont Branch). There's even a running track and pool.

Northbrae
This small neighborhood shopping district has some of the best shopping in town. The Monterey Market can't be beat for fresh produce, there's a nearby fish and meat market, and Espresso Roma for the sheer pleasure of hanging out on a sunny day.
I stop here several days a week after working out at the downtown YMCA. First stop - Monterey Market for fresh fruit and vegetables, and some freshly baked breads. Then across the street for a capucchino to go (gigante capuchino, para llevar). You get a dime off if you bring your own cup.

Berkeley Horticultural Nursery (Berkeley Hort) on Mc Gee is one of the best nurseries around, with a highly knowledgeable staff. If you're a gardener, be sure to also visit Magic Gardens.

Westbrae
Westbrae is on Gilman, just down the street. Lalime's is a lovely restaurant frequently changing menu... and one of our favorite places to go (also try Breads of India, Rivoli, and Skate's By The Bay). Mama Lan's Vietnamese restaurant is only a block away. Brother's Bagels and Toot Sweets are west of the BART tracks, and on the corner is a pleasant little park where you can drink coffee and read the paper. Across the street is New Leaf Garden Gallery, which sells gardens fountains and sculptures.