What’s the Dill? Detroit’s Pickle-Lover Paradise
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Ever since I can remember, I have loved pickles. There was always a jar in our refrigerator growing up, tucked into the back corner like a staple that never ran out. Every sandwich order included extra pickles, and at every bar and grill, I would immediately scan the plate for that classic dill spear resting beside my fries. To me, it’s the best part of a meal.
Some may call it an obsession. I prefer to say I have a deep appreciation for brine-preserved cucumbers.
So when my Detroit-loving heart discovered there was a sandwich shop built entirely around pickles, it felt less like a recommendation and more like a calling. On my next trip into the city, I made sure to carve out time to visit What’s the Dill, located at 4088 W. McNichols Road in Detroit’s University District near Livernois Avenue.
A Bold Menu Packed with Pickle-Themed Creations
Before heading in, I glanced at the menu online and was impressed. This was not just a stop with one or two pickle-themed items. The menu is packed. Variety trays loaded with different options. Pickle rolls. Build your own pickle sandwiches. Specialty creations for the adventurous.
There is no shortage of options for anyone who proudly claims pickle lover status. This carry-out spot is full of gluten-free, vegan, and keto-friendly lunch options.
The Staff Here Has the Best Recommendations
Walking up to the counter, I felt slightly outside my comfort zone. Michigan travel has a way of doing that to me. It constantly pushes me to try new things, walk into new spaces, and order something I have never ordered before. Standing in a pickle-focused sandwich shop with so many bold combinations in front of me definitely had me toeing that line.
I was greeted by one of the friendliest faces, someone who patiently walked me through the menu and helped narrow down my choices. While I love supporting small businesses and exploring new food spots, my tastebuds are not always as adventurous as my travel plans.
I ultimately landed on a build-your-own turkey sandwich, something classic but with a What’s the Dill twist. Instead of bread, a pickle takes its place as the sandwich bun. If you are more daring than I am, I highly recommend asking the staff about their favorites.
A Small Business Rooted in Community
While I waited for my order, I learned that the friendly face helping me was the owner, Leona Gist-Milton. She had always wanted to open a restaurant and began this pickle journey with pop-ups around Detroit before opening her storefront more than three years ago.
There is something about hearing that story in person that makes the food taste even better. Where pickles and small business dreams came to life in the city she grew up in. It felt very Detroit in the best way. I was offered a shot of pickle juice and, in a true moment of personal growth, even tried a grape-flavored pickle spear. See? I can try new things.
What the Dill is also a partner of the Authority Health’s Health and Resilient Communities (HaRC). Through this partnership, they are meeting the goal of having healthy grab-and-go options throughout locations in Detroit. You can find out more about the initiative here.
After a short wait, my sandwich was handed to me to go, complete with a glove for the inevitable mess. They clearly know their audience.
Knowing this is a family-run business, built from pop-ups and grit, makes it more than just a place to grab lunch. It is the kind of spot that earns a permanent place on my return to list.
A Perfect Carry-Out Option for Your Next Detroit Day Trip
If you love pickles even half as much as I do, What’s the Dill deserves a stop on your next Detroit day. If you are looking for more recommendations, I highly recommend starting your day at the Michigan Science Center and Detroit Institute of Arts and enjoying a full morning at the museums before heading to What’s the Dill for a carry-out lunch. Want to spend time outside? Pick up a lunch from What’s the Dill and then head on about a 15-minute drive to try out the new playground at Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park.
Are you searching for more pickle-inspired Michigan stops? Make sure to check out: It’s a Big Dill: Exploring Michigan’s Best Pickle Attractions