Bakesale Betty

Bakesake Betty is a Berkeley/Oakland staple and I'm ashamed to say I only made it over there for the first time a few months ago. If you read the reviews, they are glowing, people love it and it's one of those local places that make you wish you lived in Oakland. Hard as it is to believe, Oakland is truly an up and coming foodie destination, in which you can credit many Chez Paniesse alums who have been choosing Temescal for the food revolution. The decor of the bakery itself is plain and simple, large kitchen, small area to order your fried chicken sandwich and pay with of course a twenty person line out the door behind you. The exterior uses old metal ironing boards as tables as sidewalk seating. Chu-Toro and Shadow waited outside and held a table while I fought through the lines to purchase two infamous Fried Chicken Sandwiches and a Strawberry Shortcake dessert. The verdict...

Bakesale Betty Fried Chicken Sandwich

Truth be told, its a really good sandwich. The hype is true, but for me, it wasn't about the chicken and bread as much it was about the slaw. It is the real difference maker. Parley, Jalapeños, Cabbage and a zesty lemony vinaigrette really made the sandwich stand out. Some argue there's too much slaw and it makes the bread soggy. Trust me, the slaw is awesome and the sandwich wouldn't be half as good without it. The chicken breast itself is well season and not overly dry, but was a little disappointed it wasn't more moist. The bread, soft and fresh, a perfect medium for the big and filling tasty sandwich.

Bakesale Betty Strawberry Shortcake.

Despite already being filled up from chickeny goodness, dessert was calling us in the form of strawberry shortcake. I'm personally not a fan of shortcake in general, because its usually chalky and dry but this one wasn't bad. The berries themselves were more tart than I would have liked, but they were fresh and satisfying. The shortcake itself was dry still, but the balance between cream and strawberries sorted it out. Overall, I understand the dedication of Bakesale Betty's fan base and am a believer. It also helps that it's relatively cheap with lots of outdoor seating so Shadow can enjoy it too.

Rating 7.5/10

June 5, 2010

Shaddy Approved