A Hidden Gem In Kirkland

Over the summer my friend Corinne told me about a new cafe in Kirkland I had to check out.  Located in Downtown Kirkland is the new Deru Market.  The kitchen was originally devoted to catering and take out.  Now, with their recently expanded space, they provide indoor seating.

The espresso bar.

After an intense workout at David Barton Gym in Bellevue, Corinne and I decided to stop by for lunch.  She couldn't stop raving about the turkey sandwich and my mouth started watering, so it was definitely necessary.

The simple, yet versatile
menu.

Deru is located off the main strip of Downtown Kirkland, and in more of the residential area.  It is sandwiched between two industrial workshops, and could be easily mistaken for the back of a factory.  Corinne was pleasantly surprised when she saw that the cafe now has indoor seating and calls itself a market and "eatery".  She thought we were going to have to eat our sandwiches   standing out in the rain.

The inside of the market place is very simple.  White walls with high ceilings and cement floors.  The low hanging light bulbs give it a modern feel, and the shiny espresso machine is eye catching.  Next to the register is a large display case with the freshly made deli salads and baked goods.  All of the salads looked delicious, and the maple glazed oatmeal cookie was tempting.

Freshly baked cookies!

After looking over the menu composed of pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and soup, I decided to get a
combo.  I ordered the half brisket sandwich with a market salad.  The sandwich was delectable.  The brisket was thinly sliced, and slightly smoked.  Although it only had a small amount of meat on it, it was the perfect size for a nice juicy deli sandwich.  The garlicy aioli was spread on the house made focaccia, which was actually my favorite part of the sandwich.  You could taste the olive oil, herbs, and salt freshly added to the bread.

Smoked Brisket Sandwich
(w/o) Beechers cheddar,
arugula, aioli
Market salad

The salad was also tasty.  I like how they used crunchy butter lettuce.  The cranberries and maple dijon dressing were sweet, while the chickpeas added some heartiness.  Corinne stuck with her favorite turkey sandwich.  She really likes the combo of the green apple and famous beechers cheddar.  She tried the butternut squash soup, which she said was very sweet and delicious.

Smoked Turkey Sandwich
Beecher's cheddar, apple, arugula, aioli
Butternut Squash Soup

While we sat and ate our lunch, we watched the ladies next to us as they were delivered a massive piece of the peanut butter chocolate cake.  I could not believe the size of the slice!  It would take at least 3 people to finish.  Not what you would expect from the rationally sized portions of the lunch.  I left the cafe tempted to purchase one of the cookies, but I resisted.  Will definitely be coming back to try the cake.  

Deru market is a great addition to the Downtown Kirkland lunch options.  Eating in the cafe around noon, we watched about 5-6 pairs of women come in for lunch dates.  Definitely a nice new spot for those "ladies who lunch".  The location is a little hidden, but this gem is worth trying.  We just need to get the spread the word!

Corinne enjoying her tasty turkey sandwich.