fried pork belly: avocado (not pictured), cumin carrots, kohlrabi, jalapeño, fried garlic-chili mayo, acme torpedo roll
spicy hog: pulled pork, spicy slaw, pickled jalapeño, lime aoli, acme bun
the balls: niman ranch beef-pork meatballs, provolone, reggiano, la farine baguette
In Berkeley, it is well known that Wood Tavern is a high class, pricey establishment that serves the most exquisite modern American cuisine. Southie, a refined sandwich and drinks bar, is the sibling restaurant of Wood Tavern, and is located right next door. Hands down, these are the best cooked/hot sandwiches I have ever eaten, granted, they should be for amount that they cost (~$10+). Pulled pork is one of my weaknesses, so of course I ordered the Spicy Hog. The thick layer of the tender, juicy and slightly fatty pork was perfectly paired with the kick of the jalapeños and the acidity of the lime aoli to cut the richness of the meat. I can’t say that The Balls were particularly special in any way, but they were indeed quite well executed for a meatball sub. My favorite of the three had to be the Fried Pork Belly. I’m normally not a huge fan of pork belly, but I was surprised by the crispy exterior and the flavorful, fatty interior of the slice of meat, and I usually can’t stand fat on meat. The sandwich actually reminded me of a bánh mì-the cumin carrots added a lightness and crunchy texture, and the fried garlic-chili mayo and jalapeños made the sandwich burst even more with flavor.
My sprinkle of sugar: Best “gourmet” sandwich stop in town-this is one place you wouldn’t want to miss. 4.25 out of 5. -C
Location: Berkeley/Oakland border
Southie
Menu
6311 College Ave.
Oakland, CA 94618
Price: $$
savory and sweet 