Sumac & Onion Focaccia and Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake
After missing an earlier pop-up for Big Dill Kitchen, I was excited to see that Helia had another one at Oaktown Spice Shop in early March. Through Big Dill Kitchen, Helia shares the incredible Persian food she makes on Instagram and for sale at events around the Bay Area. Oaktown Spice Shop sells a variety of spices at locations on Grand across from Lake Merritt in Oakland and on Solano in Albany. Stocked with more chili, herb, and salt varieties than you knew existed, it is easily one of the best-smelling stores around.
Helia offered a few baked goods, teas, and carrot jam at her pop-up. I tried both of the baked goods: the Sumac & Onion Focaccia and the Pistachio Lemon Olive Oil Cake. Both were quite good. The bread was better than your usual focaccia, which was made possible by the sumac and onions that added a nice flavor. The olive oil cake was moist and the lemon provided a dynamic flavor, while the pistachio gave it a nice crunch and color on top.
The next time Helia has a pop-up, I'll be sure to try another baked good and the Persian Carrot Jam, which I've heard good things about.
Big Dill Kitchen
Open: see Instagram for details
Oaktown Spice Shop
546 Grand Ave., Oakland, CA 94610
Open: Daily 10am - 7pm
Check out more posts from Oakland.
