Two years ago, Crave Deli was just opening its doors but now, owners Mark and Jessica Haber are serving up community favorites every day.
The couple opened the deli in February 2009 in order to spend more time with their family, but also because Mark, a chef of 25 years, liked the idea that he was free to do things the way he liked them. “He has artistic freedom here. Food is art and it is nice to be able to create,” said Jessica.
Newly-remodeled to give the deli a cleaner, more welcoming look, Haber dots his menu with a variety of cuisines in order to make sure every palette can be satisfied.
“We care about what we make. We want it to be better than everybody else,” Haber said.
Haber makes everything fresh – sauces, dressings, freshly-roasted meats and makes sure that all of his vegetables are crisp as well. The deli also has a garden-fresh create-your-own salad on the menu that has about 50 different mix-in options and 25 different dressings. “We make it exactly how you crave it,” said Jessica.
Although patrons are free to create their own sandwiches, Haber offers a wide selection of specialty sandwiches that can tingle the tongue. One community favorite is the Mama B, which has eggplant, tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, mesculin greens, and roasted peppers on fresh crispino bread. Not your style? Try a Spicy Mother Clucker, Cuban or a Vietnamese Girlfriend. And Crave Deli also has options for vegetarians and vegans.
“One people try something, they come back. We want people to know that we are here and we are not just another deli,” Haber said.
Speaking of not just another deli, the Habers also cater for all different types of events. “[Mark] will come to your house and cook, he will do plated dinners. He loves food and loves to entertain,” said Jessica.
Crave also has homemade soups of the day, and daily specials. If you are a high school student looking for a lunch hotspot, Crave Deli offers student specials, which include a sandwich, choice of side, and a soda or bottled water for $6. The deli also offers free local delivery with a $15 purchase.
Rachel
11:24 am on Wednesday, March 16, 2011
I love Crave. You can really tell the difference between the processed stuff deli's normally use and Crave's homemade roasted turkeys and hams-so much less salt..I've also had a few parties catered by the chef, Mark Haber; one was a BBQ which he came and grilled all of the meat and veggies right there in my backyard-I felt like a celebrity with a personal chef :)
tracy dicarlo
10:31 am on Friday, March 18, 2011
if you havent tried Crave's food, you are missing something amazing!!!! its like a hidden gem!and the best part is that they cater too!!!!
Michael Wells (LePlayCafe)
11:54 am on Friday, March 18, 2011
Crave does the catering for my store LePlayCafe in Bellmore and everybody raves about the food.
Mookie (Mark) is the best chef around...no doubt!