Crew Hut Cold Cuts (Hamra)

If you have ever been to Mar Mikhael, you’ve undoubtedly seen a number of try-hard hipsters next to the iconic Manar Gas Station invading the sidewalk (and the rest of the neighbourhood for that matter), noshing away while trying hard to make a point. Just behind the mass of beards, buns, ridiculously tight pants and year-round wool beanies, you’ll find the small, sunny sandwich shop called Crew Hut Cold Cuts.

Granted, hipsters are annoying, but they are also foodies with spot on tastebuds. I tend to take there recommendations seriously. And Crew Hut Cold Cuts (CHCC) is easily one of the best gourmet street joints around. Thankfully a sister branch has opened in Hamra, just to the left of the Plaza Hotel intersection. Finally a healthy alternative to the manousheh or shawarma late night snacks you can find off a number of side streets. Okay, I admit that statement is verging on blasphemy but sometimes a fresh, healthy and hearty alternative is in order. Thank go(o)dness for Crew Hut Cold Cut Sandwiches (enough ungodly statements for this article).

CHCC may not have the most eye-turning set-up, but one look at their menu and fresh ingredients lining the serving window will have you change your mind. Where else in Beirut can you find affordable gourmet and healthy snacks until three in the morning? The Brie Pear (brie, pear, sundried tomatoes) and Chévre (chévre, honey, sundried figs, rocca, walnuts) are a happy dance in your mouth. Go classic with a Turkey and Cheese, or home-grown with Zaatar (Thyme and Mixed Veggies). All Crew Hut’s sandwiches are served on freshly baked white or brown bread. Best thing is, these cold-cut masterpieces are priced to suit pretty much everyone. Starting at 5,000L.L, the most expensive items on the menu are only 15,000L.L., and include shrimp, salmon, or bresaola.

DO NOT, I repeat and emphasise, DO NOT miss out on the pasta in a cup. It may not seem classy but who cares? It is good, convenient, easy and, well, just so yum. There are also pizza slices and, for our gluten-free friends, salads galore if you wanna shake it up (get it?).

Frankly, CHCC’s food is good everyday, any time of day, more than once a day.

Thank go(o)dness they deliver.