What's The Dill
Sandwich shop · University District ·

What's The Dill

Sandwich shop · University District ·

Deli serving creative pickle-based sandwiches with deli meats

What's The Dill by null
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What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
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What's The Dill by null
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What's The Dill by null
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What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
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What's The Dill by null
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What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null
What's The Dill by null

Information

4088 W McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48221 Get directions

$10–20

Order delivery
See Menu
No restroom
Accepts reservations
Popular for lunch
Trendy
Family friendly

Information

Static Map

4088 W McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48221 Get directions

+1 313 646 9040
stuffmypickles.com
@whatsthedill_detroit

$10–20 · Menu

Features

•No restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Trendy
•Family friendly
•Good for solo dining
•Vegetarian options
•Comfort food

Last updated

Nov 18, 2025

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@eater
391,575 Postcards · 10,993 Cities

The Best Sandwiches in Metro Detroit | Eater Detroit

"This University Village sandwich shop evokes childhood memories of grabbing a pickle out of the pickle jar. Bread is not welcome here. Instead, large dill pickles are halved and filled with deli-style fillings such as the corned beef, turkey, shredded cheese, veggies, and seasoning used for the spot’s namesake What’s the Dill sandwich. The best part about this approach, the sandwich never gets soggy." - Serena Maria Daniels

https://detroit.eater.com/maps/best-detroit-sandwich-lunch
Eater
What's The Dill
@eater
391,575 Postcards · 10,993 Cities

Here Are the Best Takeout and Delivery Restaurant Options in Detroit | Eater Detroit

"A novelty sandwich concept that forgoes bread by splitting open a giant kosher dill pickle like a roll and filling it with classic deli meats and vegetables—an inventive, mess-resistant takeout option for those who want sandwich flavors without traditional bread." - Serena Maria Daniels

https://detroit.eater.com/2025/2/4/24358602/best-takeout-delivery-detroit-sports-specials-game-day
What's The Dill
@eater
391,575 Postcards · 10,993 Cities

These are the 14 most-read Eater Detroit stories in 2023 | Eater Detroit

"A new University District sandwich shop built around a pickle theme debuted this year, offering a playful, pickle-forward twist on classic sandwich fare." - Serena Maria Daniels

https://detroit.eater.com/2023/12/30/24018974/14-most-read-eater-detroit-stories-2023
What's The Dill
@eater
391,575 Postcards · 10,993 Cities

What’s the Dill is a new sandwich shop in Detroit’s University District | Eater Detroit

"In Detroit’s University District, a new takeout lunch spot specializes in corned beef, turkey, chicken, and veggie sandwiches piled with classic deli fixings — but instead of sliced bread the newly opened shop at 4088 West McNichols uses a hefty kosher dill pickle split hoagie-style as the handheld’s vessel. The pandemic-era restaurant is the work of Leona Milton, who conceived the idea in 2021 while prepping a party tray and opened with a ribbon-cutting on April 13 attended by Mayor Mike Duggan after receiving a $25,000 Motor City Match grant. Milton plans to sell a limited line of her sandwiches and jars of Kool-Aid pickles at Detroit Meijer locations; the shop also offers jars of ranch- and hot-flavored pickles, giant individually-wrapped spicy pickles, pickle brine–dusted chicharrones, cucumber wraps, and Smickles (slider-style items using pickle chips instead of buns). The small interior is bright green, deli clerks greet customers with the catchphrase “What’s the Dill?,” and an enclosed deli case displays pickle-themed delicacies — many inspired by fan suggestions (the Kool-Aid pickles, for example, came from a customer familiar with that Southern tradition). Non-pickle coverings like halved boiled eggs, tomato slices, and bell peppers are available, Milton even tested a dill pickle soup during a cold snap, and she says the crisp, never-gets-soggy pickle plus the nostalgia-inducing aroma of brine has resonated with the community despite early skepticism." - Serena Maria Daniels

https://detroit.eater.com/2023/4/14/23681991/whats-the-dill-detroit-restaurant-university-district-pickle-sandwich-shop
What's The Dill

Lena S.

Google
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I ordered from What’s The Dill, but the pickle sandwiches blew me away, they were much larger than what I anticipated and absolutely delicious! I also tried the carrot cake, and it was super moist and tasty. The gloves they provided were a nice touch, especially since I was eating at work. Highly recommend this place!

Sary G.

Google
For all the bad reviews this one will blow you away!!! Hi 👋 my name is Sarah my coworker Jessica invited me to lunch we buy out for eachother all the time. Any who this by far was actually a good pickle sandwich it was very presentable had a great fresh taste and the carrot cake was bumming. SEE I DON’T REALLY CARE FOR NEGATIVE REVIEWS BECAUSE MANY OF THEM COME FROM PEOPLE WHO DON’T KNOW WHAT FINE DINING IS OR WHAT GOOD SERVICE LOOKS LIKE. AND NO OFFENSE TO ANY ONE BUT IF YOU DON’T LIKE THE FOOD THEY SERVE HERE THEN PLEASE CONTINUE TO EAT AT BURGER KING OR MCDONALDS THIS FOOD IS NOT FOR THE WEAK!!! YES I SAID IT AND I WILL SAY IT AGAIN….. THIS TYPE OF FOOD IS NOT FOR THE WEAK… OH AND I DID NOT EAT AT THE RESTAURANT MY COWORKER HAD DOORDASH DELIVERE IT STRAIGHT TO US. It came packaged securely it had gloves added to it. Yes 🙌 I loved it 🥰

sharn'e L.

Google
Alright so the actual pickle sandwich is good. I ordered the carrot cake and it was dry and the slice I got was not worth 3.50 (I ordered on Uber Eats) the kool aid was good and my can beverage was dirty. But I mean that’s easy to rinse off. I’ll probably go again but in person so I can actually see what I’m getting

Kawana J.

Google
First, I want to tell the owner congratulations on having a successful business in this economy! I ordered the tuna pickle sandwich, the tuna was so creamy and delicious. I went back the same day less than 2 hours after the first one. The employees were very fast, working and friendly. I hope to see a location downtown Detroit now. This would be Amazing ! Keep up the good work!

Regina C.

Google
When i tell you coming back to my hometown to try What's The Dill was the best thing I could do for myself. The pickles were fresh and juicy. The owners and her staff were polite. Although it's an order to go establishment the mood while waiting on my order was delightful. The music playing set the stage for singing and snapping of the fingers. The decor reminded me I was in a pickle shop. I ordered the Lodge Dill Wit It sandwich, and my mother ordered the Yum Yum Pickle sandwich. We also ordered the tuna salad and a kool-aid pickle. Since it was our first time, we were offered to taste a shot of pickle juice from the owner. By the way, she's an energetic person with a beautiful personality. The decor made the ordering more energetic as well. On my next visit home to the 3-1-3, I will be stopping back by.

Trending I.

Google
I adore this small business and I will be returning again anytime I'm on that side of town. The people are friendly and the food is great! I enjoyed my Lodge wit it sandwich and also bacon egg sandwiches. Got a combo with pop and chips. I was offered a shot of pickle juice which is surprisingly very healthy and the benefits were noted where I could see. I scored a 10 oz sea moss gel to help with my internal situations lol. Thanks for being there y'all. The gloves were a unique and appreciated gesture. May God continue to bless this business. 10 out of 10

Que the C.

Google
I tried the Devon Vegan pickle sandwich. It was very tasty and had fresh ingredients. I went to pick up and found out they have a whole vegan menu that’s not on the online order menu. I’ll definitely go back. Staff was friendly too.

Stacey “Big Fella” D.

Google
This place is absolutely incredible. When you walk in, you're greeted with the phrase "What's The Dill" ... they let you look at the menu without rushing you & even help you make a decision if you're indecisive. The front desk staff is very friendly & the front area is very clean. The food was absolutely amazing. I definitely advise that you try it. While we waited on our food, we were offered some pickle juice, which was also very good
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Kesha S.

Yelp
The healthiest sandwich you'll ever have!!!! I love deviled eggs and the egg sandwiches are the best. My favorite is the blt. My son got the hammer little pickle sandwiches and loved every bite. They are the nicest and most welcoming people. They always have something for you to sample and they move as fast as they can. The food is always packaged neatly and tastes great. They give you a glove with the big sandwiches but you can always request more.
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Sam B.

Yelp
I'm visiting from Portland, Or and had to visit. The food was delicious. Got the build your own with turkey, pepperoni, and turkey pastrami. Also, got the deviled eggs with corned beef, and cucumber wraps with imitation crab. The owners so nice and helpful. Highly recommend
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Lorenza T.

Yelp
Visited without any expectations, not really knowing what was about to go down. I love deli sandwiches but this is a "bread less" option!!!! I chose the "Big Dill" it was enormous! It had everything imaginable on the sandwich. I can't even remember....LoL!!! The service was perfect no complaints there..... the building /Lobby/ waiting area is extremely small. That doesn't take from the experience tho....pricing was fair and comparable to a normal deli option. Please check it out. It's worth the time and effort.
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Karol C.

Yelp
I found What's The Dill while searching for sandwiches near me. Thanks, Yelpers for leading me there! I bookmarked it weeks ago, and was finally able to stop by after work today. The small carryout shop is located in the beautiful U of D Mercy neighborhood on McNichols across the street from the college. What's The Dill offers a variety of deli sandwiches served on huge dill pickles. You can choose from an already curated sandwich or build your own. I opted for a sandwich with corned beef, turkey and cheese. It was light, fresh, and delightful. Kudos to the owner for her creativity! There are also other items to nosh on such as deviled eggs, which are 2 for a dollar and quite tasty, bags of potato chips, jarred and packaged pickles, desserts, and cucumber wraps. There are several drinks to choose from including Kool-aid. Be sure to ask for a shot of pickle juice, which is free to experience while you wait for your order. Cards are accepted. The shop sits on a corner, you can park on the side street or in the back parking lot. Don't forget to grab a punch card. When filled, you earn a free sandwich.
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Rebecca W.

Yelp
Let's be clear this is a hood spot. Well worth the trip. It is located near a pretty busy corner. Tight pulling driveway but there is parking in the back and side street. The day I went they were also selling Black Diamond watermelons and giving free samples. On the counter they have Koolaid flavored pickles. Wow, this I definitely a place to go if you like pickles. I wanted something different and that's exactly what I got. In a good way. The pickle was firm and juicy. It held up to the sandwich. The high quality of the sandwich meats were exactly what I was looking for. The amount of meat and toppings were perfect. The total package is the reason why I would return. The price is fair for the quality and amount you receive on your sandwich.
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Jess L.

Yelp
Quality meat, crispy pickles. I got the On the Lodge, which was like a club on a pickle. I enjoyed it and the seasoning was on point. Definitely something different for lunch. I liked that it wasn't heavy and was lighter, and I didn't feel "weighed down" after. A good spot for unique bite to eat!
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LaShawn G.

Yelp
The sandwiches here are really good. If you like pickles, you will like this place. Everything always tastes fresh. My favorite place. The service is good too. Staff is helpful and patient. As far as ambiance, it's just a walk in restaurant. You order and wait for your food. It's not a sit down restaurant.

Motor City B.

Yelp
The food was okay.. the pickle sandwich was salty by itself it did not need any seasoning.. also a little pricey.. they have Kool-Aid pickles but they are little slices for $2 a piece.. I don't know what kind of vinaigrette they are using but they need to change it it tastes just like regular vinegar. I would love to support my black people.. but at the same time you guys got to have some type of flavoring or some type of special sauce Other than vinegar and Lori salt.
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Candy P.

Yelp
This is my current favorite lunch. It's a simple concept...sandwiches smooshed between pickle halves instead of bread...but if you're gluten free like me...or keto or low carb...it's really nice to have a fast and affordable carryout spot that feels simple and easy because it's handheld and healthier version of fast food! Swear I get so sick of salads! It's a nice change of pace and so so good. They really stack the deli meat on. It is difficult to take a full bite, but they even pack a plastic glove in the box so you don't get too messy. It's not dine-in. Just a carryout counter and some seating while you wait. I've never had an issue with ordering over the Doordash app either.
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Colette N.

Yelp
What a great find! Just a block east of 6 Mile/Livernois, there's a small newcomer with BIG taste - "What's the Dill?". Apparently, they started out as a very popular pop-up/food truck and now what's the , a brick and mortar! What's the hook? The sandwiches are made between a large dill pickle! I'd suggest trying it - ditch the carbs! I had the tuna (yummy) and also the cucumber crab roll ups. All tasty!
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Dawn H.

Yelp
I ordered the lodge dill wit it(turkey, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, cheese, Italian dressing and mayo). Bacon pieces ware used instead of bacon strips and I didn't care for that. The pickle is so large it's hard to take a bite. I ended up opening the sandwich and esting it in 4 pieces. I was worried the pickle would be too salty but it was actually the perfect balance. The staff was great. The person taking orders took his time to explain the sandwiches and the additional options available. I like the concept but I'm not sure if I'll be back.
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Amelia B.

Yelp
This is a grab and go place with very welcoming customer service. don't let the small building stop you from grabbing a great sandwich. when you walk in you are greeted with a big Hey ya what's the dill and you're giving a minute to look at the menu. you place your order at the counter and when it's ready they will call your order number. And you can sit in the chairs in the small ordering area. they have sandwiches As well as some side salads and chips and a few things that are served like poppers. The prices are very reasonable and they even have some lunch deals if you go in a certain time. I tried the lodge sandwich and the broccoli soup. the sandwich was a good size with a good amount of fillings and toppings my only complaint is that the bacon was clearly not fresh cooked bacon it was bacon out of real bacon bit bags from the store But hey I understand. area the pickle was nice and crispy and juicy and they hollowed out enough that the sandwich stood up to eating one hole half without a falling apart . The broccoli and cheese soup was very delicious it was very creamy almost like it had some cream cheese in it there was plenty of broccoli bits as well as shredded carrots which was nice. the price was very reasonable for the cup of soup I got. I appreciate it that they serve the soup with saladita crackers instead of the regular old saltines. I will definitely be back to try a few more of the menu items and I hope that they stay around for a while.. This place certainly did a great amount of business and stayed busy the whole time I was there. The customer service was a 5 and the food was a 4 and so I'm going to give the business a 4 star
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Kalea J.

Yelp
The food was incredible! I would like to make this a regular stop. I like that it's a different spin on sandwiches. I ordered the cucumber wraps as well as the lodge and Anita sandwich and they all were good. The service here was truly wonderful. The wait at the start of the day was 15 to 20 minutes. Slowly but surely people started coming in and there was a short line out the door. The Keith Lee effect is real lol get in early so you can get out quick it's worth the stop.
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Khori C.

Yelp
Customer service was great...they have a lot of options here and she took the time to explain the menu to us as well as the lunch special. We enjoyed everything!! I will be back to try more.

Kay D.

Yelp
Highly recommend 10/10. Freshest ingredients today was my 3rd visit in as many weeks and I will keep coming back for the food and exceptional service. It's tiny so bring patience and your inside voice.

Michelle T.

Yelp
Really good I enjoy it I came from Florida to try this place. Next time I'll order the flavor pickles.

Gracie S.

Yelp
I stay close by and have been meaning to try it, however, Keith Lee sent me lol. The girl at the front taking orders was so nice. They had shots of pickle juice as samples. It was clean inside the store and the kitchen appeared to be clean as well. I got the lil'Yumber rolls. It was cucumber instead of pickles, as I'm not a pickle person and it was good! It was a little on the salty side side but you can ask for no salt or light seasoning I'm sure. I also got the chicken salad that I didn't care for too much. I'll try tuna next time.
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Carolina C.

Yelp
What's the Dill brings yet another innovative take on a bread less sandwich - this time with your favorite pickle. Each pickle is loaded with sandwich toppings and the pickle brine brings that ever needed acidity to the sandwich. Full disclosure: it's definitely a messy eat and you have to enjoy pickles to take in the full glory of WtD! The sauce does help mellow out the acid to create a harmonious flavor. If you make your way to What's the Dill, know there is no seating and your sandwich comes straight to you from their window - so plan your sandwich satisfaction accordingly.
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Tony B.

Yelp
Went To What's The Dill After Work Got Me 2 What's The Dill So Good Go Check Them Out You Wont Be Disappointed Everything Is 10 Outer 10 Hello What's The Dill Everything Was Good Will Be Back Soon
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Mariah M.

Yelp
Delicious food, friendly service. The provided glove definitely comes in handy- it's not a neat and tidy meal, but it's worth the mess. Fresh ingredients and full of flavor. I meant to take a photo but got too excited to eat when I got home. I'll have to take one next time.
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Fran P.

Yelp
Small space on 6 Mile (McNichols for you non Detroiters) just east of Livernois. Walking in you smell the aroma of pickles right away. We ordered two corned beef pickles and deviled eggs. Everything tasted good. Just a super cool concept of making a sandwich using pickle instead of bread. The sandwich was filling and the deviled eggs were sold in twos. I'll definitely be back to try more items on the menu.
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Atem A.

Yelp
As a pickle lover and a advocate for healthy food this spot is a great place for a health and filling lunch especially if you like pickles. Once you walk in, your greeted with their signature phrase "whats the dill" and their energetic staff. I had the yum yum which was a pickle corned beef sandwich and it was messy but soo good. When there ask to try the flavored pickles they may change your life

S H.

Yelp
Lodge Dill is my favorite. The pickle seems muted= I'd love a Hot pickle option! Service is stellar, Ambience is familiar!
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Ledora T.

Yelp
Just go! If you love pickles and lighter options, you will not be disappointed!! I drove from Chicago and went twice during my 1.5 day stay. The owner is welcoming by not overbearing. The options are so creative and flavorful. Just try it all. I don't even have a favorite. Everything was just that good!!
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Shelly B.

Yelp
the customer service through the roof. restaurant was very clean. the pickle sandwich amazing. great prices for a large alot of meat and vegetables will be back again to try more on the menu
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Jequcory D.

Yelp
The concept of a sandwich but replacing the bread with a pickle was genius. So I figured I'd try. Let me tell you, great business decision on my part. First. Great service. Super nice people. It's a few premade pickle sandwiches but I built my own and again. Another good business decision. I got the bacon, pastrami and corn beef with a few add ons and mannnnnnn. 10/10. I don't even eat cold cuts, so the fact I liked this so much speaks volumes. I found out after the fact you can also replace a regular pickle with a hot or sour one, (pause) and I'll be doing that next time. 100%. Flavor a 10. Pickle a 10. Meat a 10. PAUSE. I'd check them out asap if you like pickles and sandwiches cause they cracked the code with this one. And I'll add again. Super nice people so go pull up on them just cause they decent human beings making good food.

Norton ..

Yelp
As soon as I walked in the door I was greeted by a young lady stating she'd be right with me. I ordered the lunch special which is a regular pickle sandwich, chips and a drink. Service and food were excellent. I've been back
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Dan C.

Yelp
You gotta like pickles. But this place is the shit. Legit maybe my new favorite deli in the d. I'll be back.

Brittany A.

Yelp
I love this place! They never ever miss! The food is always fresh, my order has never been wrong. The customer service is top tier.

Toriyanna J.

Yelp
The food was very good ,it was juicy but not overpowering. I was given a glove to wear to keep the mess contained. It was crunchy and good

Sylvia R.

Yelp
The concept of the bread less sandwich is one thing , but on the pickle I was in heaven, recommending to try. I was impressed.

India F.

Yelp
The sandwiches are so creative and delicious. When I walked in they greeted me like "What's the Dill!?" I thought that was cute and funny. The restaurant is very clean.
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Sifah M.

Yelp
Loved the food here! I had a yum yum pickle sandwich and some crab cucumber rolls, I wish I had ordered more, it was super good. Definitely coming back soon! Support black owned
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Brandie G.

Yelp
Love it! The sandwiches the sides the snacks all BANG! Customer service is thru the roof two chefs kiss!

Aziza B.

Yelp
Customer service is great and the food is great! Detroit needed an alternate way of eating in the local area and What's The Dill gave that too us. All we had was fast food. Nice location and the ambiance is inviting along with the employees. Upbeat, friendly and good food!

Boss C.

Yelp
Excellent food great people very kind and clean! I got the veggie pickle with everything on it it was so good and different very healthy.