Adventure San Francisco: Jukebox Breakfast

To stop and behold a classic diner is one of life’s little magical moments—chrome-laced linoleum counter-tops, tile floors, and an antique jukebox in the corner that still works! As rare as these encounters are, it’s even more unusual to find a meal that’s truly worthy to be served in one of these exceptional beauties. One of Berkeley’s crowned culinary jewels, Bette’s Oceanview Diner, offers both an ambiance evocative of the past and home-cooked fare that leaves you dreaming about re-visiting in the future.

Alongside a strong, steamy cup of joe, get your day started with a set of perfectly poached eggs on top of a bed of some of the best corned beef hash I’ve ever had. Perhaps you’re more in the mood for the rarely-seen-anywhere-but-Pennsylvania scrapple or, for the less adventurous, a stack of buttery flapjacks.

Not much of a breakfast person? Belly up to the counter and order a malt or draught beer to accompany your pan-fried fish fillet sandwich or your homemade meatloaf plate. Whatever your preference, put a quarter in that jukebox. As Etta James belts out her seminal classic, I’d Rather Go Blind, sit back, take a deep sip of your drink, and truly appreciate a culinary moment that’s reminiscent of a bygone era. Details: 1807 Fourth Street, Berkeley, CA, 510.644.3230, www.worldpantry.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce/ExecMacro/bettes/dinerinfo.d2w/report.

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