“We love you, pass it on” was the first sign I saw as I walked into this contemporary deli shop. I was shocked that this hand painted sign hung from the ceiling, and honestly, I ended up smiling. I thought to myself, “We need more love in this world, particularly showing Jesus’s love, the perfect example.

On this particular Saturday, the place was packed, which gave me the impression that it must be delicious, but I did not let that persuade me. I wanted to taste the food for myself.

A good friend of mine came with me, and we discovered that the best way to enter Marie Catribs is through the back door, by where you park.

Our wait was about an hour, but it could be drastically reduced if we sat at the counter, so we agreed. We liked sitting at the counter because we got to watch the chefs prepare our food.

If you come during their busiest hours, do not fret. There is plenty to do within walking distance, while you wait for a table at Marie Catribs.

Right across the street is Global Infusion where you can get tea for two, and there are plenty of little clothing, accessory and gifts shops for browsing.

Our waiter was very personable and even gave us advice about what to eat. I ordered the Handyman sandwich, and my friend ordered the Russian [their most famous sandwich].

There was a wide bread selection and they were open to substitution if you did not like something on your sandwich.

The thick bread was matched by the ingredients inside, creating a healthy and delicious lunch. Yes, a rare occurrence; I just combined the words healthy and delicious. Marie Catribs needs the HD certification, (healthy and delicious) which I just made up, but it is so true.

The freshly baked goods did not weigh down our stomachs and left us feeling full, energized and healthy.

Our sandwiches also came with a cucumber pickle, which was a unique contrast compared to the typical dill pickle that is served with most deli sandwiches.

The atmosphere was casual and positive as the young, friendly servers joked with the customers.

I noticed that the ambiance was not typical, and the employees were a large contributor to this.

They did not wear the typical ugly, big uniforms. Instead they expressed their individual style which made me feel like a neighbor having a casual meal instead of a customer.

We even saw Marie herself. She smiled at us and chatted with numerous customers, making sure everyone was satisfied.

Here are a list of things you must check out when you go: the cucumber pickle, the sugar from Hawaii, the organic fresh food, the wonderful employees, the art and graffiti on the walls, the nice wood tables, and the other baked goods in the deli store!

My one suggestion when you eat at Marie Catribs and have to go to the bathroom is to lock the door behind you. The one stall bathroom doors make it seem like there is more than one stall. Unfortunately, I saw numerous people walk in on others before I used their facilities, so I made sure to lock the door behind me.

I also noticed that Marie Catribs is environmentally and neighborhood friendly. They have the half/full flush toilets that save water, numerous recycling bins, and they even sell some of their cookies and muffins at Global Infusion, just down the road.

The impression I got when I first walked into Marie Catribs was right on target. Many people love Marie’s deli, and even though it was packed, people were willing to wait. I have so many wonderful things I want to write about, but space is tight, so you definitely have to Get Out! for yourself! This restaurant gets my highest rating: a definite 5 out of 5.