Pickles & Rye: Not Your Average Coney Island

Pickles & Rye is redefining the traditional idea of a deli with healthier alternatives to the menu. By offering vegan, gluten-free and vegetarian options, the restaurant seeks to set itself apart from other delis in the West Bloomfield area.  

“We go a step beyond because we have all of your classic deli items, but then we make it our own ” says manager Rosalie Vento. 

Serving three grain salads using Michigan products and creating everything from scratch, co-owner Linda Collins says, “our salads are a step above your average salad and we want to cater to all of your dietary needs.” 

But in case you aren't sticking to any dietary restrictions, Pickles & Rye also offers burgers such as the southwest veggie burger or the wild mushroom burger as well as a design-your-own sandwich option, The Detroit Free Press reports.

No stranger to the community, owner Rick Therrien was an opening chef at Deli Unique, the building that his restaurant Pickles & Rye now occupies. Serving the West Bloomfield Hills area since 1987, Deli Unique was a staple in the community for its delicious eats and the welcoming atmosphere that was offered there.

Deli Unique closed its doors last year and once Therrien learned that the Unique Deli space was available, he decided to buy it.

Reuniting with long-time friend and co-worker Linda Collins, they decided that it was time to work for themselves and make their dreams come true. The pair has nabbed Tim Cikra as executive chef. He has experience as the personal chef to Florine Mark, president and CEO of the Weight Watchers Group.

“We didn’t want to alienate people who want the traditional deli experience but we see ourselves as a deli with a healthier twist,” Therrien told the Free Press.