Students reflect on their experiences eating at the restaurant

By AMBER WARNKE — features@theaggie.org

Dumpling House has been deemed the best dumpling restaurant in Davis yet again, earning 70.8% of students’ votes in the category. The restaurant, located at 129 E St., has been serving the Davis community for over two decades, offering students a cozy and inexpensive place to catch up, relax and experience authentic Chinese cuisine.

While the restaurant specializes in dumplings, it also sells crispy tofu, potstickers, wontons, egg rolls, noodles and fish dishes. Its ample vegetable-based options also provide choices to community members with vegetarian and plant-based diets.

Derrick Wu, a third-year computer science major, has found Dumpling House to be a comforting space, reminding him of his home.

“I am an international student, so I come from China, so dumplings are my traditional food,” Wu said. “When you eat [here], you can feel your culture.”

Forest Sabbath, a second-year anthropology major, eats at Dumpling House often and also appreciates its take on Chinese dining.

“A lot of the Chinese restaurants in Davis have quite a range of cuisines,” Sabbath said. “Some things you probably wouldn’t see elsewhere, and I think that’s a lot of [the time] due to the fact that we have a lot of actual international students here. When they go to a Chinese restaurant, they want to have something from home.”

While Sabbath has explored the international restaurants throughout Davis, Dumpling House is a special place to him.

“The thing about the dumplings that I like is the ability to mix and match dumplings for a low price,” Sabbath said. “I just hope that they continue to be able to do their thing [and] can keep the prices low.”

Dumpling House’s prices, in addition to its short wait time, are part of what makes it an accessible restaurant and a necessity for busy college students. Dumpling House’s cozy atmosphere has also given students a space to meet and unwind throughout the busy quarter.

Leilani Jackson, a second-year biomedical engineering major, has bonded with her friends after going out to eat with them at Dumpling House after club meetings.

“I built stronger connections at Dumpling house,” Jackson said. “All my memories I have at the Dumpling House are me getting to know my friends better [during] my first year and I still talk to [them] today.”

Dumpling House also regularly sells at the weekly Davis Farmers Market, providing food options that shoppers can eat while browsing the stands. Regardless of what students choose to eat from Dumpling House, the restaurant will remain a staple of Davis culture and cuisine for years to come.

Written by: Amber Warnke — features@theaggie.org

Redefining what “welcome” means

By NEVAEH KARRAKER— nakarraker@ucdavis.edu

For over half of a century, the Women’s Resources and Research Center (WRRC) has been a pivotal aspect of the Davis community. It has transitioned from a small place of simple but impactful peer counseling and support groups to a hub of programs dedicated to battling against gender violence, inequities and similar forms of oppression.

One method the center employs is to indirectly challenge the patriarchal system by highlighting women’s individuality. For example, respelling words with the letter “x,” such as “womxn” and “hxstory,” actively includes any transgender, non-binary or femme individuals who do not identify as male. This feminist change illustrates the center’s value of social justice by decentering men and redefining gender stereotypes.

In light of the fact that UC Davis is considered a strong STEM university, several educational and personal obstacles are bound to arise. STEM fields are typically known to be male-dominated, which can be frustrating for many women, who may encounter discriminatory attitudes from peers and professors.

Rather than advocating exclusion, though, the WRRC works to paint the picture of a community that everyone can strive for. This is projected by the center’s new graphic logo, which is brimming with color and harmony. It encompasses symbols for fire, water, earth and air, which represent the WRRC’s commitment and dedication toward their mission — representing a balance necessary for the life of history, learning, justice and love.

The WRRC itself reflects this ideogram; the “Righteous Babes’ Lounge” and the “Joy Fergoda Library” showcase the center’s devotion to awareness. Further, the combination of rooms where one can relax, study or receive support cultivates an intimate space for all.

“I feel like it’s a living room vibe,” a fourth-year physics major, who wishes to remain anonymous, said. “I introduced [my housemate] here, too, and now she comes here and we just chill. Sometimes she takes a nap in the lounge or she has an interview on Zoom here.”

Yet, it’s not just the many resources that draw people in; it’s also the individuals who contribute to each thread of exposure to the WRRC. The staff and volunteers, who are always eager to sing karaoke and emanate energy that can only be labeled as irresistibly inviting. Because they are also students, they harbor authentic relatability.

This particular feature is what furnishes this home. It unites minorities who have grappled with belonging and employees endeavoring to achieve goals of societal growth — all under the premise that we, as a human species, desire connection and, above all else, love. This sense of community and warmth is undoubtedly what has awarded this resource center as the Best of Davis.

Written by: Nevaeh Karraker—nakarraker@ucdavis.edu

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by individual columnists belong to the columnists alone and do not necessarily indicate the views and opinions held by The California Aggie.

Proof that everything in Davis is just a click away

By ABHINAYA KASAGANI— akasagani@ucdavis.edu

If you ever find yourself wondering how to fill your days and are plagued by the prospect of being presented with more than one choice, you’re in luck. The Instagram account @mydaviscalifornia caters to all — students, locals and visiting parents — who don’t quite know where to start.

Relatively small in breadth, Davis is large in its sweetness and wonder, making this wide-ranging and easy-to-navigate catalog helpful to those that are new here. The account features everything from underrated menu options to updates on new store openings, weekly or one-time pop-up events and more. More than anything, the account succeeds in making Davis accessible to anyone that is curious, with updates on the weekly farmers market and community life around Davis.

“@mydaviscalifornia showcases the heart of the Davis community and its local events,” Ashley Wong, a second-year economics major, said. “It promotes local small businesses and highlights everything that gives Davis its unique, small college town charm.”

The account cares for and takes students into consideration. For instance, it consists of a $20 section that suggests a plethora of ways that you can spend your money. Several deals and listings can also be found on the My Davis California website, with discounts for local businesses and restaurants.

While some use the account to plan their downtown excursions, others primarily use it to scout for local food hotspots.

“I think @mydaviscalifornia is a great way to stay informed on new events and restaurants in Davis,” Maya Leonard, a second-year design and communication double major, said. “I love going out to eat, and I know I can always find something fun on their account.”

Quick video montages of downtown sushi spots or café circuits set the account apart from other static campus sources: perfect for engaging a busy college student always on the move.

“I like the constant content and their use of videos, especially the ones with food recommendations,” Delaney Bright, a second-year human development major, said.

The Best Davis-specific Instagram Account is highly deserving of its title and does the work of continually reminding its residents that there is more to Davis than meets the eye. Whether you are attempting to get off the dining commons meal plan, looking for new study spots, trying to fill your Saturdays or simply curious about what is new in Davis, @mydaviscalifornia is a best friend dragging you downtown and loudly proclaiming that you “HAVE to try this.”

Written by: Abhinaya Kasagani— akasagani@ucdavis.edu

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by individual columnists belong to the columnists alone and do not necessarily indicate the views and opinions held by The California Aggie.

Yoga has once again earned the highest honors

By JHANA RHODES—jsrho@ucdavis.edu

As the end of the school year approaches, navigating demanding spring quarter schedules while finding time for rest can be daunting. However, the Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) offers a much-needed sanctuary through its diverse yoga classes. The ARC provides a variety of weekly yoga classes which caters to those looking to improve their physical and mental well-being while accommodating to schedules. It is no surprise that yoga has, once again, become a winning candidate for the best ARC fitness class.

Gentle yoga, hatha yoga and vinyasa yoga are the three classes offered this spring. While each style offers their own benefits, vinyasa yoga is a popular choice and is offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Vinyasa is characterized by flowing sequences.

Mary Sayer, a third-year English major and one of the instructors for vinyasa yoga, received her yoga certification in the summer and began teaching two to three classes a week in the fall. She focuses her instruction on “connecting breath to movement and finding moments of stillness, balance and strength.”

If you’re new to yoga, hearing words like “strength” and “balance” can make it seem like you have to be an expert to participate. However, it’s the complete opposite. One notable aspect of Sayer’s approach to teaching vinyasa yoga is her dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, no matter your skill level.

“You don’t have to be flexible to come to yoga, and there are no specific body types or clothing requirements,” Sayer said. “Individuals can simply show up as themselves to learn and grow.”

If you tend to avoid joining fitness classes or going to the gym because of how intimidating it can feel, having a welcoming instructor is incredibly important. Sayer fosters an inclusive environment through her thoughtful approach to individual and diverse needs.

“I offer modifications,” Sayer said. “If [students] are having rough days with their body and do not feel like they have energy, they can take it slower. And, for those who want more challenges, they can push themselves.”

Beyond the physical advantages, Sayer strongly believes in yoga’s mental health benefits and spoke from experience.

“[It’s a] safe place to return to whenever I felt uncomfortable or stressed, providing time and space to be in my body,” Sayer said.

In a world with constant stimulation, Sayer hopes that yoga can offer students a safe place to rest and find stillness without distractions from a phone or the outside world.

Vinyasa yoga, gentle yoga and hatha yoga are all part of the Living Well program, which is available from March 31 to June 7. With a Campus Recreation membership or Group Exercise pass, you can sign up for unlimited classes. If you are an active UC Davis student, you can apply for a Well-Being Fee Waiver, which makes recreation opportunities more accessible and affordable. If you are looking for a way to get involved on campus, taking yoga classes at the ARC is a great way to get started.

Written by: Jhana Rhodes— jsrho@ucdavis.edu 

Meet the physics cat of UC Davis 

By MOLLY THOMPSON – mmtthompson@ucdavis.edu

UC Davis is famous for all of the animal life present on campus. From cows near the Tercero dorms, horses by the Arboretum and turkeys that haunt the pathways between lecture halls to therapy dogs that comfort students during finals week and some very brave and very stupid squirrels that all have a death wish, UC Davis has everything you could want and more.

But perhaps most famous and most beloved by the student body (and beyond) is Cheeto, the scruffy orange cat that lives by the Physics Building. Cheeto is so popular that he has his own Instagram fanpage (@cheetodaily) that periodically posts endearing photos of the cat to brighten up all of our days.

Cheeto has been an adored character in Davis since 2011 and continues to roam the area around the Physics Department. He is fed and taken care of by the department staff and is given constant love by all who stumble across him. Cheeto can often be found napping in one of his various beds, snacking from his food bowl or lounging in the sun. No matter what he’s doing, Cheeto never fails to bring joy to UC Davis students.

Stella Baum, a second-year community and regional development major, said seeing Cheeto always lifts up her spirits.

“Seeing Cheeto is like spotting a unicorn [or] a four-leaf clover,” Baum said. “[It] puts me in the best mood and makes me feel special and lucky.”

A Cheeto spotting might be rare, but it’s always worth the patience. Cheeto’s adoring fans have solidified his impact by creating a Rate My Professors profile for the orange feline (“Cheeto Physics Cat”). He has a perfect five-star rating for teaching classes such as Loafing 101 and Head Pats 010. The reviews speak for themselves: He has received comments such as “The best cat I’ve ever had for a professor,” “The only thing that gets me up in the morning” and “The source of my weekly dose of serotonin.”

Needless to say, Cheeto is a renowned staple of UC Davis. His iconic bronze coat is easy to spot amongst the green foliage when he chooses to make an appearance, and his soft fur provides comfort for students and community members alike. He receives as much love as he gives — Davis adores Cheeto.

Written by: Molly Thompson — mmtthompson@ucdavis.edu 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by individual columnists belong to the columnists alone and do not necessarily indicate the views and opinions held by The California Aggie

Upper Crust is recognized as the best bakery in Davis for the third year in a row

By OLIVIA HOKR — city@theaggie.org

Over the past few years, Upper Crust Baking has earned the titles of Best Bakery and Best Pastries. They have once again been voted the Best Bakery in Davis for 2025.

Located at 634 G St., Upper Crust Baking has grown to become a Davis staple. The family-owned bakery prioritizes quality and authenticity in their menu items, as well as providing a space for the community to come together.

Lorin Kalisky, the owner and executive chef, took over the business from his parents in 2016. In its early years, the bakery was primarily a farmers market vendor. Kalisky wanted to expand to a physical location for customers to enjoy, which led him to open the Davis storefront in 2019.

“The bakery business is a hard business to be in — we work long hours, early hours, and no one is getting rich,” Kalisky said. “We do it because we love to bake, we love to feed people good food and we love to serve our community. It is very gratifying, and it makes it all worthwhile when we get compliments and accolades like this. We are proud of the work we do, and we are very grateful to the community for the recognition.”

The bakery offers a wide variety of goods. From fresh-baked loaves, baguettes and bagels to tarts, scones, croissants and cakes, Upper Crust has something for everyone. They also offer seasonal menus. This year’s April specials include Easter- and Passover-themed desserts.

Kalisky shared more about his favorite products and the effort they put into ensuring authenticity.

“I think we make really amazing French bread and pastry,” Kalisky said. “My wife is French, and I lived in Paris for 14 years, so we have high standards for quality and authenticity. We make a special baguette — a regional specialty from Bordeaux — that is made with spelt flour and sesame seeds, giving it a unique nutty flavor. It’s split at each end — people think it looks like it has rabbit ears — in order to resemble the trimmings from grape vines after the harvest. These trimmings are called sarments de vigne, and so the baguette is called a sarmentine baguette.”

Within the past year, the bakery expanded to provide an outdoor patio space for customers to enjoy. Kalinsky noted that there’s not much space inside the bakery, so the patio provides a space for the community to gather. Students also use the patio to study while snacking on a pastry.

Julia Ing, a fourth-year managerial economics major, frequents Upper Crust because of its welcoming environment and lattes.

“I really like the lattes,” Ing said. “I haven’t really had many of their pastries. I’ve had a savory scone. I liked it! They also have good chocolate croissants.”

Allison Merz, a graduate student in the School of Management and frequent customer, said the bakery reminds her of home.

“All of their lattes are incredible,” Merz said. “I’m from Oregon, and [the bakery] reminds me of central Oregon, so it has a very comfortable, homey feeling. And it smells so good.”

Upper Crust has also been selling at the Davis Farmers Market for nearly 40 years. Kalinsky shared that the farmers market has really supported the bakery’s ability to maintain its “farm-to-oven” approach. They try to source as many ingredients as possible from local farms and producers, ensuring fresh and quality baking.

The storefront is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sundays and sells at the Davis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. If you haven’t yet, indulge in one of their freshly baked goods to understand why they are the consecutive winners of Davis’ Best Bakery.

Written by: Olivia Hokr — city@theaggie.org

This local, family-owned business is set to debut a new flavor and a new trailer truck 

By RORY CONLON — city@theaggie.org

Davis Creamery, an ice cream and dessert shop located on 113 E St., has been a part of the Davis community for nearly 14 years. The Creamery was originally owned by David Robert, who opened the shop in its downtown location in 2011. In 2016, Robert sold the Davis Creamery to its current owners, Joe and Jen Schmidt, who had the vision of turning it into a family business.

“Both of us grew up in family businesses,” Joe Schmidt said. “I grew up on a farm and Jen’s father was in the book binding business. We took a lot away from growing up in family businesses, and so we decided to start one ourselves.”

Joe Schmidt said what sets Davis Creamery apart from other dessert shops is that they make the ice cream themselves.

“Our location is small and probably a third of it is the kitchen in the back, where we actually make our ice cream,” Joe Schmidt said. “We make it in very small batches. Four gallons of ice cream are made per batch.”

Davis Creamery offers a rotating selection of six to eight ice cream flavors. Jen Schmidt said that customers have two clear favorites.

“Right now, I would say that Brigadeiro and Coffee Oreo are our most popular flavors that we have out,” Jen Schmidt said. “Those two stand out to me.”

Another thing that sets Davis Creamery apart from its competitors is the Bracketology tournament they hold each spring. Through the Bracketology tournament, customers vote for new flavors and whichever one wins stays on the menu year-round.

During the first stage of Bracketology, which usually begins in February, customers fill out slips describing their ideas for new ice cream flavors. Jen Schmidt said she then sorts through these submissions with her family.

“There’s hundreds of submissions,” Jen Schmidt said. “I think, this year, we had 400 and then we narrowed it down to 16.”

From there, those 16 flavors are put into different brackets. Customers are invited to come taste the new flavors at the Creamery and vote for their favorite flavor to advance to the next round of the tournament.

Makena Wahl, the Schmidts’ daughter, manages Davis Creamery and runs the Bracketology competition. She said she makes each new ice cream flavor through a process of trial and error.

“I’ll come up with a recipe, just off the top of my head, that I think will work,” Wahl said. “I’ll mix it up a bit, and then it’s all just tasting it.”

After having her employees taste the ice cream, she makes adjustments.

“Eight out of 10 times, it needs a little more of this or a little more of that,” Wahl said. “This year, when I was making the Cucumber Lime Sorbet, I thought I was going to nail it on the first try, but I ended up having to double the lime.”

Right now, customers are voting on whether Dutch Stroopwafel and Lavender Toasted Sesame will make it to the next round. The Creamery will announce a new flavor on its menu when the Bracketology tournament ends in May.

In addition to introducing new flavors, Bracketology gives the Creamery a chance to market its brand and engage with its customer base. Jen Schmidt said a big portion of that customer base is made up of UC Davis students.

“As soon as the college kids leave, we drop about 30% [in sales],” Jen Schmidt said. “Our busiest times are spring and fall. We’re unusual for an ice cream store, where summer is not our busiest month. We’re lucky that we have university students to support our business year-round, not just in the summer.”

Joe Schmidt said that Wahl plans to expand Davis Creamery’s business even further.

“[Wahl] is taking our ice cream on the road,” Schmidt said. “She’s recently purchased a trailer that we’re going to [use to] customize the Davis Creamery’s offering. It’s going to be a separate business, but it’s an extension of Davis Creamery.”

Wahl estimates that she will get the trailer up and running by early fall. She said she wants to bring Davis Creamery’s ice cream to the UC Davis campus in the future.

“I love doing business with the university,” Wahl said. “Hopefully, there will be more opportunities for me to get on campus for things like Welcome Week, graduation festivities, stuff like that.”

Wahl, who has worked at the Davis Creamery for eight years now, said that when her parents first purchased the store, they never expected it to become as successful as it has been. She said she appreciates the students who have supported the Creamery over the years.

“I think it’s very amazing how big our business has become for students,” Wahl said. “I love the involvement of not only the Davis community, but also all these new people that are joining our community with a common interest and love for the Creamery.”

Written By: Rory Conlon — city@theaggie.org