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Hungry people in Westhampton Beach and its surrounding community have a unique option if they want restaurant-quality food, but prefer the comfort of their own homes during the cold winter months—dining in, courtesy of the Sunset Court Delicatessen.
At Sunset Court, located on Sunset Avenue in Westhampton Beach, patrons can order almost anything ranging from a quick bite on the go to a complete gourmet dinner.
“I’m trying to be in between a restaurant and a gourmet store and a deli,” owner Brian Crouse of East Quogue said during a recent interview.
Although Sunset Court Delicatessen is the eatery’s official name, many locals know it as Sunset Barbecue or its nickname “The German Deli.”
“Originally, there was a lot of confusion because everyone called it the German Deli,” said Mr. Crouse. “So I thought I’d create more confusion. [Sunset Court Delicatessen] is both the German Deli and Sunset Barbecue.”
Sunset Court Deli opens at approximately 6 a.m. when breakfast foods such as egg sandwiches (prices vary) and French toast sticks ($4.25) are served.
“At lunch we offer typical deli fare,” Mr. Crouse explained.
Among the options are chicken quesadillas ($7.50), eggplant parmigiana on a roll ($6.95), Sunset burgers ($7.95) and Italian meatballs on a roll ($8.25).
Come nightfall, the Sunset Deli transforms into the Sunset Barbecue, the name given the establishment after 4 p.m. when it serves what Mr. Crouse described as “restaurant quality food at affordable prices.” At that time, patrons can order entrées including miso-crusted salmon with baby bok choy and brown rice ($15), shrimp scampi over fettucine with garlic bread ($12), seared tuna with Jasmine rice and sauteed sesame sugar snap peas ($14) and organic rotisserie chicken ($10).
The owner also recommends the rack of lamb ($15) and the grilled shell steak in a port wine demi-glaze ($17).
To wash it all down, Mr. Crouse recommends a cup of fresh brewed iced tea. “What we’re most known for in the local community is iced tea,” he said. “People love it.”
Although complete dinners are available for take-out in the evening, Mr. Crouse stressed that the deli portion of his store remains open at all times. “You can still get a sandwich here anytime,” he said.
A descendant of Eastport duck farmers, Mr. Crouse said he grew up visiting the East End and always had an affinity for the community. “I love the beach community,” he said. “The ocean and the Pine Barrens are really important to me.”
He began working at the deli, then also named Sunset Court Delicatessen, some 24 years ago during his college days. He took over the business in 1989 shortly after dropping out of school to become a chiropractor.
He said it was always his dream to open his own eating establishment. “The reason I didn’t become a chiropractor is because I loved food so much,” he said.
Mr. Crouse said his staff of seasoned food industry veterans works hard year-round to bring good food and good service to customers.
“They’re people who have done this their entire lives,” he said.
Head chef Manuel Aguilar said he is grateful that Mr. Crouse allows him the freedom to experiment in Sunset Court Deli’s kitchen.
“I feel free to do anything,” he said. “That’s why I’m still here.”
Mr. Aguilar also said that Mr. Crouse is quick to assist when any problem arises in the business.
“That’s the reason his business is doing so well,” he said of his boss.
Mr. Crouse said that in addition to the influx of summer residents, his establishment caters to local families, passersby, surfers visiting the ocean and single people looking for a convenient meal.
“As a single person, it’s hard to cook for yourself,” he said. “It’s an alternative to take-out pizza or Chinese and it’s made a niche for us.”
Long-time customer Helen King of Westhampton said she frequents the Sunset Barbecue at least once a week and orders lunch from the deli counter even more often. She said the cuisine at Sunset stands out from its competition.
“It’s not your typical deli food,” she said. “It’s like getting a dinner from a fine restaurant.”
Employees are now gearing up for another busy summer season when the line to the counter can be out the door.
Mr. Crouse said that although the 40-percent increase in business in the summer helps pay the bills, he enjoys the quiet lulls in the winter when it can seem like the whole village has packed up and left town. “I like the seasonal nature,” he said.
60 Sunset Avenue, Westhampton Beach, 288-2247
Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
All major credit cards
Handicapped accessible
Bryan Finlayson on Feb 17, 2009