Kirkland has plenty of good food, but DERU Market is the spot locals actually rearrange their day for.
From wood‑fired pizza to towering slices of cake, it turns simple ingredients into food that feels comforting and special.
Regulars rave about the fresh, local produce and handcrafted bread, then end every visit with a slice of over‑the‑top dessert.
It’s the kind of place you discover once and then keep coming back to, for both weekday lunches and relaxed weekend hangs.
How DERU Market won locals’ hearts
DERU Market began by focusing on seasonal, local ingredients, letting the quality of the produce lead the way.
Every plate feels intentional, from vibrant salads to crisp‑edged pizzas, so guests taste that extra level of care.
Their wood‑fired pizzas helped spark the buzz, with chewy crust, charred bubbles, and toppings that actually taste fresh, not fussy.
Then people started talking about the cake’s huge, layered slices that look playful but deliver serious flavor.
Those cakes, especially the coconut and dark chocolate salted peanut butter versions, became the kind of desserts friends describe in DMs and group chats.
Word of mouth did the heavy lifting; locals told coworkers, neighbors, and visiting family, and soon it felt like everyone had a DERU story.
At the same time, the team kept the space relaxed and welcoming, so it never felt pretentious despite the food’s quality.
You order at the counter, watch the kitchen move, eye the cakes, and instantly feel like a regular, even on your first visit.
The location, tucked into a quieter part of Kirkland, adds to its charm, making it feel like a true neighborhood gem rather than a tourist trap.
People stop in for a quick lunch and end up lingering over coffee, shared slices of cake, and easy conversation. ☕
Over time, birthdays, date nights, and “we just need something comforting” evenings all started happening at the same handful of tables.
That blend of honest cooking, generous portions, and a cozy, lived‑in atmosphere is exactly how DERU Market won the hearts of locals.
Food Highlights
-
Wood‑Fired Pizza: Built on artisan dough and baked in a wood‑fired oven, the pizzas come out with chewy centers and beautifully blistered edges. It’s a must‑try for anyone who loves simple, bold flavors and that smoky, comforting finish. 🍕
-
Sandwiches on Housemade Focaccia: These sandwiches use house‑baked focaccia that’s airy, soft, and rich with olive oil. Packed with high‑quality fillings, they turn a basic lunch into a satisfying, crave‑worthy meal you remember. 🥪
-
Seasonal Greens and Salads: Bowls of farm‑fresh greens and seasonal salads are treated like stars, not side notes. They’re colorful, crunchy, and hearty enough that salad lovers and pizza fans can happily share a table. 🥗
-
Rotating Seasonal Entrées: The menu often features seasonal entrées built around what local farms are growing. This keeps things exciting for regulars, who show up eager to see what’s new and what’s only available for a short time.
-
Coconut Cake: A towering slice of coconut cake with rich frosting and moist layers that feel both homey and indulgent. It’s the kind of dessert people plan ahead for, ideal to share but secretly hard to split. 🥥
-
Dark Chocolate Salted Peanut Butter Cake: This cake leans into bold, sweet‑salty flavor with dark chocolate and salted peanut butter. It’s intensely rich and beloved by chocoholics who want a dessert that feels like a full event, not just an add‑on. 🍫
-
Victrola Coffee and House Drinks: The shop pours Victrola coffee and creative drinks, including vibrant, produce‑driven options like beet‑based beverages. They’re perfect for pairing with cake in the afternoon or sipping slowly while you wait for hot pizza. ☕
Atmosphere
DERU Market has the feel of a warm neighborhood hangout, where the line at the counter adds to the anticipation instead of the stress.
Inside, the look is clean and modern but still cozy, with cakes and fresh dishes proudly on display so you can see what you’re craving next.
On nice days, the patio fills with friends, families, and couples, giving the place a relaxed, community‑forward energy that makes lingering over one more slice feel completely natural.
Bottom Line
Come for comforting wood‑fired pizza, stay for the massive, unforgettable cakes and laid‑back neighborhood vibe.
If you love fresh ingredients, generous portions, and true comfort‑food energy, DERU Market belongs on your Kirkland must‑eat list.
Address: 723 9th Ave Ste D, Kirkland, WA 98033
📞 (425) 298-0268
🕔 Open daily 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM