a good sandwich - fried oyster mushroom po' boy at bageltopia

for this vegan sandwich from bageltopia, lightly fried oyster mushrooms create a crisp, velvety, almost buttery layer, having been dredged in a mixture of flaxseed and oat milk, as well as flour and spices, before a just-right fry. next comes thin-sliced tomato, good lettuce, just enough pickles, and a deliciously light spread of cajun-style remoulade.

the bagel choice is a personal one, but for optimum, mild po' boy-like softness, we recommend the toasted sesame bagel.

note: the shop's roomy, comfortable, sunny cafe dining space gives off old-school, college-town vibes. good for easy, peaceful meals and meet-ups, especially given the casual breakfast and lunch spot's spacious parking lot, somewhat of a rarity on university avenue.

bageltopia is at 1401 university avenue in berkeley, and is open every day except monday from 7:30am until 2:00pm.

july 16, 2025