Dilly Deli in Mariemont

A good friend of mine invited me out for a beer at Dilly Deli in Mariemont.  I must say, I was a big skeptic, and thought maybe he had lost his mind.  He is a city dweller, and we usually meet downtown at cool places like Grammers.  First off, this place is called Dilly Deli, what kind of a name is that for a place to grab a beer with a friend?  Secondly, it is in Mariemont.  Mariemont is nice if you want to live in perfect-ville, but I didn't even know they drank in Mariemont. But, he is a good friend, and I trust him.

Dilly Deli is actually a little gem.  It was a nice evening so the outdoor seating was in full effect.  We opted to sit at the bar which is small, but colorful.  There was a man playing the guitar nicely, and a welcoming character named Peanut behind the bar sporting a huge handlebar mustache.  We had come for a specific beer that they had on tap, The Maharaja, a double IPA from the Avery Brewing Company in Boulder, CO http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/30/22352 .  It was strong and delicious.  We continued, and sampled a few other of the rare and delicious beers they had on tap.  Fantastic selection.  Peanut was an expert and just seemed to love new beer.  We nibbled on their beer cheese appetizer which was the perfect companion to the strong beers.

That is all we ate, but the menu and food that people were eating around me looked great.  The place is an upscale casual deli/cafe/bar which seems to be a perfect local everyday type of place for those Mariemont Pleasantville folks.   They have a counter with gourmet cheese selections, and a small beer and wine store in the back.  Apparently they don't charge a corkage fee on their wine Monday through Wednesday.  I would like to go back and try more of the food, and of course more of the beer.

Is it worth trekking out to Mariemont for if you don't live close?  I would say no.  But if you happen to be in the area, you should probably stop in and check it out.

http://www.dillydeli.com/