Iyow - in your own words

When’s the last time you saw a spork? Grade school lunches? Better yet, when’s the last time you used one?

For better or worse, I used a spork a few weekends ago at Vik’s Chaat Corner. This Berkeley institution, chosen by SF Chronicle as one of the best bargain bites, is popular even on a rainy Saturday. I was hoping to miss some of the lunch crowd by arriving at 2pm, but no such luck. The place was hopping as the regulars staked out empty tables. The line moves quickly, and we were lucky enough to snag a table near the open kitchen. I didn’t realize how lucky until each dish we ordered came out at a different time.

In my pre-lunch research, I’d read that their PA system isn’t the best, but perhaps that was the past? A gentleman behind the counter held a microphone and, instead of singing bad karaoke, created order from chaos. A steady stream of orders and names.

The first item we tasted, Bhatura Cholle, came out hot and steamy. A very large puffed puri made of fermented white flour was nothing short of dramatic. It was accompanied by garbanzo curry, onions and mango pickle. A tasty first course.

Next, my husband ordered a weekend special – the Chicken Biryani. I’m not a biryani aficionado of any kind, but this was delicious. Who knew something so simple could be so good?

Finally, after much anticipation, we received our last weekend special – the Masala Dosa. I must say that I love dosas, a South Indian specialty. A crispy crepe made of rice and lentil flour stuffed with potatoes and served with coconut chutney and lentil soup. What’s not to like? I could eat these every week. Maybe every day. But I was horrified to discover that my husband does not feel the same way. So, I’m thrilled to get them when I can. Vik’s masala dosa did not disappoint. The crepe had a nice crunch and a bite of the potatoes dipped in the lentil soup was nothing short of divine!

By the end of our first meal at Vik’s, our fingers were yellow and our stomachs were stuffed. I wish I could have eaten more, but now we’ll need to find another excuse for an East Bay excursion. Contrary to other diners, I can’t say I enjoyed the spork, but I will endure it for Vik’s.

PS Don’t miss Vik’s retail space next door. A great place to stock-up on spices!