A little sandwich shop in Leeds has been crowned the ‘best in the north’ for the second year running.
Country Crust in Chapel Allerton received the award for ‘Sandwich shop of the year’ at the 2021/22 Prestige Awards – taking home a certificate noting them as ‘2 x’ winners.
Known across Leeds for its specially-cured bacon and superb menu of cakes and hot drinks, the cute little cafe was bought by husband and wife team Michelle and Jason Burns on a whim seven years ago – and it’s proven a great investment, not just for the couple but for the local community, too.
The pair both built their careers in the corporate world, with Jason previously working for a big gourmet baking company based in Hull. However, after a few glasses of wine, they discovered the Facebook listing for the cafe and decided to go for it.
History, as they say, was made.
Initially run by Jason and their daughter, today it is a fully-fledged family affair with Michelle leaving her day job to join the team three years prior.
They pride themselves on supporting local businesses, sourcing nearly 90% of their stock from neighbouring suppliers.
Still, there’s one product, in particular, that keeps pulling people back in – and that’s their specially cured bacon. Acquired specially from some friends in Scunthorpe, Country Crust is the only place to sell it;
The cafe also sells baked potatoes, salad boxes and loads of Lincolnshire sausages alongside a range of hot and cold drinks and top-notch sarnies.
Nominated anonymously, Michelle and Jason collected their second award this week and are “absolutely thrilled” to have scooped the gong not once now but twice.
After sharing the news to their business Facebook page, followers were quick to congratulate them, with one saying: “15+ years since this was my local buttie shop, but whenever I’m in the area or passing I’ll call for a sarnie “
Another added: “Love this place! X excellent food great staff. Well done to everyone.”
Feature image – Country Crust
