Pizza Joint Breaks Barriers

Lauren BonneyTHE SANTA CLARAApril 22, 2014

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he aroma of epic deliciousness descends upon a line paralleled along the sides of the building.  There are visible signs of mouths watering in anxious anticipation for that first initial bite that will instantly tantalize the taste-buds.  The first bite alone will make any visitor to the city wish they were native Berkeleyites just so they can visit the small pizzeria during their lunch breaks, and potentially return once more for dinner.

The Cheese Board Collective is crammed between two nondescript buildings along Shattuck Avenue and consistently seems to have a steady stream of people flowing in and out its doors.  But do not be intimidated by the line, it always moves quickly, assuring those in the queue that they will receive their precious pizza in record time.  When walking up to the counter, do not expect the usual made to order pie or pepperoni by the slice.  The Cheese Board does not and will not offer it.  This pizzeria is unique in offering only one set of pizza toppings per day and strives to use only organic, locally grown, vegetarian ingredients.  But all you meat lovers out there do not be discouraged; each pizza is delightfully delectable in its own way and you will not miss the meat!  Scout’s honor!

The pizzeria certainly offers the usual toppings.  Onions, crimini mushrooms, and garlic are common.  However, sometimes they offer a “topping of the day” that will create a sense of intrigue, and doubt, in a customer.  For example, you might stumble in a day that the pizzeria decides to serve a pizza with olive oil, mozzarella, Italian parsley, red onions, sweet yellow corn, pine nuts, bell peppers, and key lime; a little odd and unusual perhaps, but completely and utterly delightful to consume.

If the pizza itself does not draw you in, then the awesome flood of music emanating from within the shop will surely lure you into the restaurant.  Local bands play daily during the lunch and dinner hours and help create a fun and upbeat atmosphere while you wait.  There are a wide range of musical groups that play a variety of genres from jazz rock, reggae and blues. You never know what you are going to get when you show up at The Cheese Board, just like the iconic pizza itself. Contact Lauren Bonney at lbonney@scu.edu or call (408) 554-4852.