Bakesale Betty's

There is a place in Oakland. It is called Bakesale Betty's. And it is hands down the most amazing place of its kind. It has a pretty limited menu, but I have a strong appreciation for places like that because it generally means that what they do, they do very well. If for instance, you want sugar crusted scones with such unique flavors as pear-ginger, or apricot-almond - Betty's is your place. Or chunky chocolate cookies to die for and strawberry shortcake that brings a tear to your eye - again, go to Betty's. I have had all of these and appreciated each and every one for the work of baking art that they are.

However, what I was still missing out on was Betty's famous fried chicken sandwich. A sandwich so good that on any given weekend, come noon, there is a 30 minute line out the door which people willingly and cheerfully endure because the reward is so magnificent. Fortunately, this weekend my deprivation ended when Marin and her brother and I found ourselves at the Temescal Street Fair on Telegraph, and in convenient proximity to Bakesale Betty's. Naturally there was a line of gigantic proportions but we joined its ranks regardless and in surprisingly little time were the proud owners of a paper wrapped bundle of joy. We found a spot at one of the ironing board tables and plank benches that constitute the outdoor dining furniture for Betty's and dove in. Naturally the fried chicken is what makes the sandwich great, but what makes it Betty's is the coleslaw that is piled in with it. Fresh, crunchy, tangy and slightly spicy (due to the sneaky little sliced jalapenos sprinkled throughout) it is the perfect compliment to the crisply fried and juicy sweet chicken. In a word, it is epic, and something I see myself becoming lamentably addicted to.