The end of the semester is fast approaching, and that means assignments are piling up—problem sets, papers, group projects. You’re feeling overwhelmed and need a study break, but where would you fit it into your calendar? And then you see it—420, a gift from above. Then there’s the second problem. You know you’re going to get the munchies; it’s scientifically proven after all. Well, we have the answer for you: SpoonFest: HIGHlights of the Bay.
Spoon University at Berkeley is back at it again with its fourth SpoonFest on April 20, 2019. The date has a special place in Cal traditions, but nobody wants a grumbling stomach to ruin a dank time. That’s why Spoon University has invited eateries from all over the Bay to Berkeley to serve some scrumptious dishes while you get baked. So mosey on over to Memorial Glade this Saturday from 12 to 5 pm, and get out those spoons to taste the HIGHlights of the Bay.
Happy Dumplings
Is there any better way to start your food escapade this SpoonFest than digging your teeth into Happy Dumplings’ freshly pan-fried shengjian bao? These thick and juicy pork buns will melt in your mouth the moment you bite into them. Besides the pork belly bun, Happy Dumplings also offers other buns with different fillings, including a shrimp, eggs, and chives bun and a vegetable bun. The menu also has different Chinese-style pancakes for you to try.
Antonik’s BBQ
For those of you meat lovers, you’ll want to check the grills getting lit at Antonik’s BBQ. From skewers to a variety of meat plates, this food festival favorite will “wow” your taste buds. The tender texture of the meat is nicely balanced by the crunchy charred exterior and the hickory taste that comes from the charcoal grill. If you haven’t had Filipino BBQ yet, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to try it at SpoonFest.
Alicia’s Tamales Los Mayas
If you tend to get a spicy case of the munchies, then look no further; Alicia’s Tamales Los Mayas (ATLM) has got you covered. Using fresh local ingredients, ATLM handcrafts its tamales to serve a dish reminiscent of a home-cooked meal. Its signature dish, the pollito tamale, combines chicken breast, carrots, zucchini, potatoes, peas, and salsa verde to create a colorful and flavorful dish with the right amount of spice. ATLM also sells other types of tamales as well as elotes (corn on the cob) and aguas frescas—the ideal companions for your tamales.
Breadbelly
Unsure whether you want something savory or sweet? Why not get both at Breadbelly? This fusion bakery-cafe takes Asian traditional recipes and gives its own innovative American twist. If you’re craving something on the savory side, try the char siu sandwich. If you have a sweet tooth, then I recommend the castella cake. And for those of you who can’t decide, get something in-between like the kaya toast, which balances the sweet coconut-pandan jam with bits of sea salt.
Out the Dough
At first glance, you might think you’re looking at some ice cream. Surprise, surprise: those are trays of Out the Dough’s edible cookie dough. What makes the cookie dough safe to devour is the use of pasteurized eggs and heat-treated flour. We’re personally excited to try the Twisted Chocoholic’s Dream, a mix of dark chocolate, marshmallows, and chocolate chips, and the peanut-buttery Ellen DOUGH-Generes flavor, which is vegan and gluten-free.
Frozen Kuhsterd
Move aside ice cream because Frozen Kuhsterd is the next big thing. This “West Coast Style” frozen custard has been taking the Bay Area by storm. Beginning as a food truck serving frozen custard sundaes and bars, Frozen Kuhsterd is known for its one-of-a-kind flavors like the White Rabbit, which is inspired by its namesake, the White Rabbit candy. For those of you who want to kick your puffing session up a notch, try the alcohol infused flavors, like the Thai tea rum.
Feeling hungry already? I know I am. Not only am I excited for all the food because of my voracious appetite, I just can’t wait since these businesses are indeed some of the HIGHlights of the Bay. Each of these eateries are run by individuals who know their craft, pay attention to detail and taste, and invent new delectable dishes and treats that get your saliva dripping. If you want to enjoy what these eateries have to offer, or if you simply want to take a bite in between those puffs, join us this 420 from 12 to 5 pm at Memorial Glade.