A combination deli, bakery, upscale grocer and sandwich joint, Deli Boutique joined the posse of European-style joints that grace Clark Street with gourmet-to-go goodness. The storefront space boasts gleaming white tiles, kidney-bean-color walls and charming, rustic ornamentation along the lines of gleaming copper frying pans and little paintings of sidewalk cafes. In the front of the space and next to the window, two square, wooden tables invite four to dine in-house while gleaming cases of grocery-style goods appeal to those eating on the run.
To the left, a set of wooden shelves cradles jam by Bonne Maman, coffee by Lavazza and Panna water. Also look for ready-made Italian goods like bruschetta. A meat counter houses cuts of salami and black forest ham (about $10 a pound) and an adjoining case displays frosted frivolities like cinnamon buns and carrot cake. Two chalkboards spell out sandwich fixings: Look for options like the curry chicken-filled Bombay or opt for a grilled panini in flavors like Coliseum (a mix of salami, prosciutto, basil, olives and herbal dressing). Open at 7 a.m. daily, Deli Boutique also serves breakfast goods like egg-filled paninis and cappuccinos.
Centerstage Reviewer: Jennifer Berg