When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Dimo's Deli & Donuts
Why Dimo's Deli & Donuts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dimo's Deli & Donuts has been a staple in the Ann Arbor community for nearly five decades, originating from a small donut shop established by the Dimo family in 1973. Over the years, it has evolved into a well-loved destination that offers freshly made donuts, hearty breakfast options, deli sandwiches, and Mediterranean specialties. Located on West Stadium Blvd, it combines a family-friendly atmosphere with traditional recipes, crafting each donut in-house from a rich, yellow-cake-like base that sets them apart. The menu caters to morning and midday cravings, featuring a variety of sandwiches, omelettes, and breakfast plates alongside their signature donuts such as apple fritters and custard-filled varieties. Its loyal customer base values both the quality and affordability of the offerings, making it a go-to spot for locals looking to catch up with friends over coffee and delicious food. The welcoming vibe and the owner's engaging personality add to the charm, creating a unique community experience. The establishment’s consistency and the blend of classic and Mediterranean flavors provide a great setting to enjoy good food, a casual meal, and warm social interactions.
Here's what people think of Dimo's Deli & Donuts
As of recent, Dimo's Deli & Donuts holds a 4.8-star rating based on 954 reviews.
Reviews consistently highlight the outstanding homemade donuts as the top draw at Dimo's Deli & Donuts, praising their fresh, rich flavors and wide variety—favorites include the apple fritter and chocolate-glazed donuts. Many reviewers also compliment the hearty lunch options like the falafel sandwich and burgers, noting the generous portions and good value. The owner’s lively personality and the friendly, informal atmosphere contribute to the positive dining experience. However, some negative feedback points to the restaurant's dated interior and a sometimes brash owner, which can be off-putting to certain customers. A few reviews mention that when the owner is not present, service quality may decline. Despite these minor critiques, the vast majority of feedback is positive and underscores Dimo's as a cherished community eatery with a strong reputation for quality and charm. Overall, the reviews suggest that Dimo's successfully balances tradition, flavor, and a personal touch that appeals to a diverse clientele in Ann Arbor.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Libby Wedesky
Tried coming here a few times when we were in town and every time it was closed, today it was open and finally got to try it. This place has been around since I was in high school (that I took note of at least) and figured it had to be good. I ordered a tuna melt sandwich, my sons got hamburger meals and they came on big pieces of bread, not a bun. Looked good though. One kid liked it, the other thought it was too much and wouldn’t eat the crust. My tuna sandwich was huge! Took up the entire take out container! But it unfortunately wasn’t the best tuna I’ve had. Pretty bland and needed mayo or salt or both. Just not good flavor, at all. Really wanted to like it. Even got donuts, but the chocolate frosting wasn’t the best either. The owner, Dimo, helped us (or at least that’s what a customer behind us called him) and he was super nice and helpful, my kids liked him. Wish I would have enjoyed the food more, but maybe it’s just not for me.
Avram Liebowitz
Love this place! Local favorite spot. The Doughnuts are amazing and everything is delicious!
Craig
I have never been treated so poorly in a restaurant, and it was great! I enjoy sitting having a huge breakfast and hearing people get the friendly scolding if they hesitate a moment while ordering. An institution in Ann Arbor
Stephanie Somerlott
Coming from a Polish family and having our Bushia make us Paczkis during fat Tuesday, I have to say these are pretty darn close to Bushias cooking!!!
Alex Mottski
Dimo’s is outstanding! Amazing sandwiches and more! A staple in Ann Arbor and great people who run it and work there!
How to reach Dimo's Deli & Donuts
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Why Dimo's Deli & Donuts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dimo's Deli & Donuts with your friends? Because this charming Ann Arbor gem offers an unbeatable mix of irresistible food, lively atmosphere, and genuine local flavor that makes every meetup memorable. Whether you crave perfectly crafted sandwiches or crave delightfully fresh donuts, Dimo's delivers top-notch options that satisfy every taste bud. Rated an impressive 4.8 from nearly a thousand reviews, it’s clear that Dimo's excels in quality and customer experience, attracting both locals and visitors alike. The welcoming staff, led by an owner whose personality infuses the place with brash but good-natured humor, creates a casual, fun vibe where friends can relax and enjoy natural conversations. The deli’s unique blend of savory and sweet treats means everyone finds their perfect bite here, whether it's an eight-inch pastrami on rye or an apple fritter donut with crispy edges and a soft center. For groups, it’s not just about food but the feeling — Dimo’s encourages camaraderie, often handing extra goodies "to share with friends," turning every visit into a mini celebration. It’s a place where everyone feels welcomed, everything tastes delightful, and the atmosphere sparks connection. That makes Dimo’s an ideal rallying point for friends wanting quality food, laughter, and great memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Dimo's Deli & Donuts, and why is it perfect for group meetups? First and foremost, the central activity is enjoying a stellar breakfast or lunch together. The menu caters to a wide range of appetites, featuring iconic deli staples such as Manhattan Reubens, hot pastrami on rye, and generous corned beef sandwiches. Alongside these, the extensive variety of freshly made donuts — think chocolate-covered cake donuts, cinnamon rolls, custard long johns, and apple fritters — satisfies dessert cravings and adds a festive touch. This sweet-savory combination is tailor-made for groups with diverse preferences, ensuring no one leaves hungry or unsatisfied. Beyond food, Dimo's offers a comfortable, casual environment with indoor seating that fosters easy conversation and laughter. Visitors often highlight the friendly, upbeat interaction with staff, which elevates the experience and enhances group bonding. The place’s reputation for speedy service and value pricing makes it a stress-free choice for gatherings where no one wants to wait long or worry about the bill. Moreover, Dimo’s wide menu and consistent quality invite repeated visits, ideal for groups looking to make it a regular meetup spot. The deli’s flexibility with takeout and catering also allows groups to extend the experience into events or outdoor picnics, meaning Dimo’s supports socializing beyond its walls. This blend of excellent food, friendly energy, and functional options make it a perfect venue for friends and family to come together, enjoy good eats, and create lasting memories.
Why is Dimo's Deli & Donuts considered a local favorite in Ann Arbor? The answer lies in its authentic New York-style deli charm paired with a strong local personality. Owners and staff infuse the place with warmth, humor, and a dedication to quality that keeps customers coming back and bringing friends along. Unlike chain eateries, Dimo's crafts its breads in-house, shown in thick, freshly baked slices that give sandwiches a distinct fresh-from-the-oven taste. The donuts are made on-site daily, ensuring crisp edges and fluffy interiors that donut lovers rave about. With breakfast options priced around $7 and sandwiches ranging from $8 to $10, it’s an affordable indulgence that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or portion size. Reviews consistently praise not only the food but the lively atmosphere where the staff's jokes and banter add to the experience, making newcomers feel instantly welcome. Moreover, the location on Ann Arbor’s West Side is convenient enough for locals, students, and visitors, positioning it as a community hub. This welcoming vibe combined with consistent quality supports a strong sense of neighborhood pride. People don’t just come for a quick bite—they come to soak in an experience defined by genuine connection and top-tier food.
What amenities and services enhance the experience of hosting your group at Dimo's? Accessibility and convenience are key features here. The deli is wheelchair accessible, ensuring all friends and family can join comfortably. The establishment accepts a full range of modern payment options from credit cards to mobile NFC payments, making group transactions seamless and quick. Dimo's hours from 6 a.m. to mid-afternoon provide ample opportunity for breakfast and lunch meetups without the typical dinner rush, allowing for relaxed, unhurried gatherings. In addition to in-store dining, they offer flexible takeout and catering services, perfect for groups who might want to enjoy their favorites at a park or during a casual home hangout. Outside seating is also available, providing an alternative social setting when weather permits, ideal for larger groups or those preferring fresher air. Complimentary Wi-Fi means your group can stay connected or even share the moment live on social media while enjoying the food. The friendly, efficient service means less time waiting and more time bonding. These amenities combine to make Dimo’s not just a deli and donut shop but a versatile venue for a range of social occasions.
How does the food at Dimo's cater to different tastes in a group setting? The breadth of the menu ensures every palate is treated without compromise. For meat lovers, classic deli sandwiches like pastrami, roast beef, turkey, and corned beef showcase well-seasoned, generously piled fillings with fresh bread. Vegetarians or lighter eaters can enjoy innovative egg salad, tuna salad, and turkey sandwiches, crafted with care to provide equally rich flavors. Breakfast items such as bacon and eggs, bagel sandwiches, and fresh toast offer comforting, familiar options perfect for early risers. Don’t overlook desserts—the donuts are a standout feature ranging from traditional glazed to specialty flavors like custard-filled or cinnamon rolls that feel like a celebratory pastry rather than a quick snack. This variety means that a group can easily order a diverse spread, encouraging sharing and tasting that sparks conversation and bonding. The quality of ingredients — made-from-scratch breads, fresh fillings, and house-made donuts — aligns with the expectation of authentic, satisfying meals. This careful dedication to both savory and sweet allows groups to customize their experience while still enjoying the signature Dimo’s excellence, ensuring no one feels left out.
What makes the atmosphere and service at Dimo's special for group gatherings? The deli’s atmosphere is casual and inviting but filled with personality, thanks largely to the proprietor’s brash but charming demeanor and the staff’s friendly rapport. Customers often describe the place as buzzing with smiles, jokes, and a sense of community, turning routine meals into social events. Servers are attentive and often add unexpected extras, such as giving away additional donuts with orders, explicitly encouraging sharing with friends. This warm hospitality creates an informal vibe where groups feel appreciated and welcomed, not just served. The noise level remains conducive to conversation, unlike louder, more frantic chains, making it easy to catch up with old friends or enjoy family chatter. Whether on a weekday breakfast or a weekend lunch, the energy is consistently lively yet comfortable, setting the perfect tone for gatherings. The emphasis on good humor and high-quality service ensures that guests feel at home and eager to return, making Dimo’s a natural choice whenever a group wants an informal, fun, and delicious place to meet.
How does Dimo’s facilitate unique and memorable group meetups beyond just dining? The deli’s catering service offers an extended way to enjoy their renowned sandwiches and donuts at group events beyond the shop’s walls—think office meetings, family celebrations, or casual outdoor picnics. This flexibility allows groups to share Dimo’s favorites in a setting of their choice, enhancing the occasion with familiar, beloved flavors. The combination of breakfast and lunch items caters well to various types of gatherings, from early morning coffee and donut socials to substantial midday meals. The ability to customize orders according to the group's preferences makes planning easy and stress-free. Furthermore, Dimo’s local reputation means groups are often introduced to unique menu items or seasonal specialties as part of the experience, which can become fun traditions or topics of shared enthusiasm. The deli’s community-rooted vibe also encourages spontaneous socializing, making it a place where connections can deepen naturally. These elements combine to make Dimo’s not just a meal stop but a dynamic social hub — ideal for groups wanting food that delights and an atmosphere that fosters togetherness.
In summary, Dimo's Deli & Donuts represents more than just a place to eat; it is a vibrant, welcoming community spot ideal for rallying friends and family. Its exceptional 4.8 rating from over 950 reviews attests to a consistently outstanding experience rooted in top-tier food, friendly service, and an atmosphere brimming with personality. From satisfying traditional deli sandwiches on fresh-baked bread to indulgent fresh donuts, the menu offers something delicious for everyone in your group. Amenities like in-store seating, outdoor options, catering, and accessibility ensure your gathering is comfortable and convenient. The infectious enthusiasm of the staff and the authentic local vibe create an environment where good times come as naturally as the meals. Whether you want to kickstart the day, celebrate a milestone, or just enjoy a casual catch-up, Dimo's Deli & Donuts is undoubtedly the perfect place to do it.