Allan Santiago
Google
CHICA is the embodiment of a place 'acogedora'. [Look up on Google translate]. Its unassuming, and the decor mixed style furniture reminicent of the street markets my parents would take us to long ago.
Everything is made to order, so be patient, it's worth it. The Mexi-bowls were appealing, but the fried chicken and waffle is what I would have ordered back home, so I went for it.
With so many fried chicken spots in Oakland, it's not often one makes such a lasting impression. The flavors were carefully concocted, and the chicken as tender and juicy as can be. The bit of cebolla roja, limón, jitomate, y aguacate, along with the added fried egg took the flavors from savory to Umami.
For a closer, the kid in me reached for the Mazapan then looked at my almond latte and a lightbulb dinged. I crumbled the brittle treat into the cup, took a sip. The mix rivals any hazelnut latte and forms a hot chocalate-like consistency. Along with the buttery/syrupy waffle, it was literal sweet bliss.
You could also come for a coffee, kick back and be swooned by the dope soundtrack. Though, if you're like me you may be inclined to start singing outloud or start grooving in your seat.