DERU Brings Fresh Brunch and Easygoing Service to Kirkland

What the ratings suggest

DERU holds a 4.5 Google rating from 2,895 reviews, a substantial base that points to broad and sustained approval. Public feedback repeatedly emphasizes freshness, well-matched flavors and friendly staff. The restaurant spans several roles, including cafe, coffee shop, pizza restaurant, American restaurant and catering service, but the sample reviews lean most heavily toward brunch.

The tone of that feedback is notably enthusiastic. Diners describe the food as consistently fresh, with sauces, dressings and sides receiving almost as much attention as the main dishes. One group tried a wide spread that included salad, eggs Benedict, salmon, pancakes, roast beef and chicken salad, reporting a strong experience across the table rather than praising only one standout plate.

Brunch appears to be the main draw

Eggs Benedict is the clearest recurring recommendation. One reviewer called DERU’s version a new favorite, noting that its flavors differ somewhat from a typical Benedict while still working well together. Another group included the dish among a larger brunch order that it considered top tier. That makes it a sensible starting point for a first visit.

Other favorable mentions broaden the appeal. A scramble was described as especially creamy and buttery. The salad drew praise for the combination of cheese, herbs, dressing, carrots and nuts, suggesting that lighter choices receive the same attention as the richer brunch plates. Fried chicken also earned specific approval for being crisp and juicy without becoming greasy.

Bread and pastry items receive mixed but mostly positive feedback. One sandwich stood out for well-toasted bread with a crisp crust, soft interior and flavorful sauce. Berry bostock was appreciated for its almond flavor. Large cake slices make a visual impression, though at least one reviewer felt their size was a stronger selling point than their quality.

Coffee, service and reservations

DERU’s coffee-shop side is not overlooked. A caramel latte was described as well made and served in a notably wide cup. That, combined with the brunch-heavy menu feedback, supports DERU as a place for a full meal rather than just a quick coffee stop.

The service model may be unfamiliar to some diners because there is no assigned server. Even so, one review found the ordering process simple and easy, while also describing the staff as friendly and engaging. That setup could suit groups comfortable with a less conventional flow, but guests expecting continuous table service should know about it beforehand.

Online reservations are another practical strength. One diner reported booking on a Sunday shortly before driving over and being seated immediately on arrival. Availability will naturally vary, but the option adds useful predictability for a popular brunch destination.

Editorial take

Synthesizing the rating and available reviews, DERU looks strongest for brunch groups that value fresh ingredients, polished sauces and varied ordering options. The evidence supports particular confidence in the eggs Benedict, salads and fried chicken, with coffee providing a credible accompaniment. The occasional dessert criticism and nontraditional service format are worth noting, but they do little to outweigh the consistently positive food feedback behind the restaurant’s 4.5-star standing.