Bette's Oceanview Diner (Berkeley, CA)

The inimitable actress Bette Davis once said, "I am doomed to an eternity of compulsive work. No set goal achieved satisfies. Success only breeds a new goal. The golden apple devoured has seeds. It is endless." 

While this maxim certainly applies to professional endeavors, it translates relatively easily to the pursuit of great food.  I'm always looking for better bacon, sweeter sweets and of course, brunch. In my version of heaven, they'd serve brunch all day, every day.  So I wondered if Bette's Oceanview Diner could be heaven on Earth as I entered and saw their pie in the sky.



Since there was a 45-minute wait for a table for two (always a good albeit unwelcome sign), Cousin Dana and I window-shopped down Fourth Street.  I picked up some towels on sale at Restoration Hardware, and my favorite verbena-scented soap and bubble bath at The Gardener, and before we knew it, it was time to nosh.

Dana ordered the special of the day -- poached eggs on toast with goat cheese and roasted red peppers.  I had their signature Souffle Pancake.  It's made extra fluffy with egg whites and comes in a variety of flavors; I chose Banana Rum, with a side of chicken sausage for good measure.



What did we think of this ethereal brunch?  We loved it!



If you're in the area and just want to pick up a quick coffee drink, pastry, panini or pizza slice - you can get all these items and more from Bette's shop and to-go counter next door.  (It was all I could do to restrain myself from trying a red velvet cupcake, or the chocolate espresso Twinkie.  Virtuous, I know.)  If you're not in the area and want a little taste of heaven, you can buy their pancake, waffle and scone mixes online.

Comments

[Greg]

Too funny. I had Bette's take out about a month ago...way too hot that day to sit indoors. Enjoyed a Dr. Brown's cream soda as part of lunch that day. Love it!