The drama surrounding one of downtown’s most visible corners has finally settled.
And it looks like the replacement is going to be as comforting as what was there before.
We spotted “Coming Soon” signage for a new concept called Crave Cheesesteaks at 500 Robson Street.
If that address sounds familiar, it is the former home of 911 Pizza.
That shop made headlines back in September when its lease was abruptly terminated.
It was widely reported that the closure was due to over $100,000 in unpaid rent, leaving the high-traffic unit sitting empty for months.
But now, the papered-up windows are teasing a fresh start.
According to the new signage, Crave Cheesesteaks is positioning itself as Vancouver’s home for “authentic Philly-style” sandwiches.
The brand’s description promises to capture everything people love about the East Coast classic.
They will be grilling thinly sliced steak and loading it onto soft, locally baked rolls.
It is all topped with “perfectly melty cheese” to replicate that specific messy, savory experience you get in Philadelphia.
While they are sticking to the traditional recipe, they mention using fresh, local ingredients to refine the concept for “West Coast food lovers”.
Currently, the windows are still covered in kraft paper, and the “Hiring” signs suggest they are building up their team.
There are no details yet on an official opening date or the full menu.
However, given the prime location on Robson and Richards, this is likely to become a busy lunch spot for the office crowd.
Crave Cheesesteaks joins a growing list of upcoming food spots in Vancouver like Ultramarinos Pepe, the reopening of Cafe & Life Co. on Cambie, and Pho An Vu on Kingsway.
Address: 500 Robson St, Vancouver, BC