California

Photos: Chicken coop in the city

Architects Catherine Chang and Chris Andrews pose for a portrait in front of the chicken coop they designed for Pizzaiolo restaurant in Oakland. The chickens, all exotic breeds, lay eggs that are later served to patrons. "It's one of the best things I've ever done," Andrews said. "It's almost too much fun ... we feel a little guilty."

Architects Catherine Chang and Chris Andrews pose for a portrait in front of the chicken coop they designed for Pizzaiolo restaurant in Oakland. The chickens, all exotic breeds, lay eggs that are later served to patrons. “It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done,” Andrews said. “It’s almost too much fun ... we feel a little guilty.”  (Dave Getzschman / For The Times)

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Chickens

Exotic chickens lay eggs that will be served to patrons at Pizzaiolo restaurant in Oakland. Their coop, built entirely with reclaimed and scavenged materials, was designed by architects Chris Andrews and Catherine Chang.  (Dave Getzschman / For The Times)

Egg layers

Just off Pizzaiolo’s back patio is a brand-new, custom-built chicken coop. Eggs laid there in the morning will top pizzas by nightfall. Diners will be able to wander over, Barolo in hand, to commune with the creatures that might contribute to their dinner.  (Dave Getzschman / For The Times)

Chef Charlie Hallowell

Charlie Hallowell, center, owner and chef of Pizzaiolo, tests the food with his employees before opening for dinner. The Chez Panisse graduate and his small flock of exotic fowl are more than just the epicurean avant-garde. Oakland is undergoing something of an urban chicken renaissance, and Pizzaiolo is a leading indicator.  (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Herbs

Cook Rico Rivera selects marjoram from the herb garden at Pizzaiolo restaurant. Nearby benches, as contractor Max Vogels puts it, invite people to “sit next to lemon thyme and nice smelly plants that are sweet in the evening.”  (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

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