The space at 719 Washington Street in Old Oakland has changed hands more than once in the past 18 months (it used to be Toutatis, our favorite Breton creperie, and then it was the Courthouse Grille for a few months). Recently, Cock-a-Doodle Cafe opened their doors there.
We headed over last Saturday with Bogart, who was clearly chomping at the bit for a long walk. They kindly allowed us to carry him onto the back patio, where we enjoyed a really nice breakfast.
C had an omelette with pancetta, chipotle aioli and cheese ($9.50). This was heavenly--one of the best omelettes either of us has had in a long time. Whenever we go to breakfast, he HAS to order a side of pancakes, and in Cock-a-Doodle's case, they were earthy multigrain pancakes. They had a nutty sweetness even without syrup, and were very hearty. I would have enjoyed these but for the syrup, which made them a bit too sweet for my taste. His latte was good enough to rival Caffe 817's.
I had hard-poached eggs on ciabatta with prosciutto, arugula and a sweet onion-mustard vinaigrette ($9.50). This dish was less successful. While the dressing was fabulous, the bread was too chewy to be cut comfortably, and the acidity of the arugula didn't somehow pair well. However, it's a dish that with minimal tweaking would be really wonderful and different.
Other unique items include a Ceviche Eggs Benedict, several different crepes, and Tamarind Mimosas.
Service was attentive, patient and warm, and the space itself is very inviting. The garden patio is really pleasant, particularly if the weather is nice.
Cock-a-Doodle Cafe
719 Washington St
Old Oakland
510.465.5400
Technorati Tags: Food | Food & Drink | Brunch | Oakland