If you have walked down Robson Street lately, you definitely noticed the change.
That previously dark, empty corner has been wrapped in bright orange branding.
After weeks of teasing, Crave Cheesesteaks has officially soft opened its doors.
For locals, this corner at 500 Robson Street is a bit of a landmark.
It was formerly home to 911 Pizza, which made headlines last September after an abrupt closure involving unpaid rent.
Since then, the high-traffic unit has been sitting empty.
Now, that chapter is closed, and the paper is finally off the windows.
Stepping inside, the space has been completely transformed from its pizza slice days.
It is simple but heavily branded, featuring industrial metal walls and a massive “CRAVE” marquee sign.
A neon sign on the wall screams “MEATY MELTY MESSY,” which pretty much sets the expectation for the meal you are about to have.
This is the first location for the new brand, and they are keeping the menu focused.
You essentially choose between Steak or Chicken as your base, available in 8-inch or 12-inch sizes.
Options include the O.G. Cheesesteak (steak, onions, peppers, American cheese) or spicier versions like the Spicy Steak Melt with jalapeños.
For sides, it is all about the Waffle Fries, which you can get plain or loaded “Nacho style”.
We grabbed the 8″ O.G. Cheesesteak, a side of waffle fries, and a lemonade.
Be warned:
This is not a light snack. We were definitely in a “food coma” by the time we finished.
And secondly, this isn’t an authentic Philly Cheesesteak but a variation.
The O.G. Cheesesteak comes standard with green peppers and a caper horseradish aioli, toppings you definitely won’t find at Pat’s or Geno’s.
So you’ll have to continue looking elsewhere if you want the traditional kind.
While this is their first shop, they are already moving fast.
Staff confirmed they are currently working on a second location, which is set to open inside the Lonsdale Quay Food Court this summer.
Crave joins a wave of new openings in the city, including Nabi House, 93 Coffee Waterfront, and Street Hawker Lab.
For more new and upcoming food spots in Metro Vancouver, take a peek at our tracker here, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
Address: 500 Robson St, Vancouver, BC