If Oakland had a taste, it would taste like chicken and waffles.

From the Wells Supper Club in Harlem to Roscoe’s in Los Angeles, many an establishment will claim to have invented the infamous chicken and waffles, but the truth is that nobody knows who first married waffles to fried chicken and called it breakfast. What is clear, is that the spirit of this dish is very suited to the East Bay, so save yourself some time and hit the highlights.

5. The Terrace Room

Choose Terrace Room if you need to impress a friend with fancier brunch needs, but you still have a hankering to eat chicken and waffles. Served with collard greens that are wrecked by maple syrup, yet strangely compelling, the offering is typical for a place that does not specialize in soul food, but the view of Lake Merritt is unmatched. 1800 Madison St, Oakland

4. Stella Nonna

The choice for strict thigh lovers, this version boasts highly regional flavor in 'Minnesota' fried chicken, which is extra crispy and great for a hangover. Stella Nonna’s chicken and waffles is an offbeat yet worthy effort, and the restaurant features a bar in case you’re not hung over yet. 1407 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley

3. Lois the Pie Queen

Lois offers excellent and flavorful fried chicken, but punishes you with plain waffles. Luckily her queendom has a laid-back diner vibe and has some truly great biscuits hot for her early morning subjects. 851 60th St, Emeryville

2. Brown Sugar Kitchen

Look no further for the absolute Oakland soul food experience, with waffles that melt in the mouth and chicken that is fried dark, salty and decadent. This West Oakland gem has a very homegrown feel; food you are too busy eating to Instagram. 2534 Mandela Pkwy, Oakland

1. 900 Grayson

This trendy spot on the border of Oakland and Berkeley has mastered the perfect chicken and waffle experience: the Demon Lover comes served with both maple syrup and gravy. The place is small and packed, their hours are short, and high-quality ingredients command a premium price. But (by the authority vested in me by years of testing) this is the best chicken and waffles in existence. 900 Grayson St, Berkeley