Downtown's Crust & Crumbs (4700 Lakeside Ave.) is relocating. The bakery and cafe closed on Feb. 16; owners and chefs Ismail Samad and Vanessa Robinson plan to reopen in the Tyler Building, near the intersection of Superior and E. 36th St., in late spring.
Robinson says the two-and-a-half year-old eatery finally outgrew its tiny space, hidden away inside a former factory guardhouse in an aging industrial neighborhood. Besides higher visibility, the new digs will allow for longer hours (including evening and weekend operations), a larger menu, and a 50-seat dining room, featuring high ceilings, contemporary decor, and an urbane vibe. Look for a full bakery, too, with an assortment of cakes, breads, and pastries to go.
Robinson studied at the
Loretta Paganini School of Cooking, in Chesterland; Samad graduated from
ICASI, the school's professional division.
"I always wanted a bakery, Ismail always wanted a restaurant, and Panera sort of beat us to the punch on both counts," Robinson jokes. "But this has been a lifelong dream for the two of us, and we are really looking forward to the expansion."
In the interim, the Crust & Crumbs catering ops will continue. For more info: 216-881-7544.
-- Elaine T. Cicora
