POULSBO — Less than a year after successfully bringing a European style pub to the heart of Little Norway, Rob Difilippo and Tammy Mattson have done it again.
This time instead of expanding their first venture, Tizley’s Euro Pub, the pair has opened another business, Europa Deli, in the space below the bustling Front Street restaurant.
“I remember years ago when the Poulsbo Deli was across the street,” Mattson said. “That was the last time there was something like that in Poulsbo until now.”
The Poulsbo Deli offered a variety of fresh meats and cheeses that disappeared from Front Street when it closed its doors several years ago. Her childhood memories of the sights and smells and friendly customer service played a role in the decision to open a similar business, Mattson said.
While the jump from a booming restaurant to a deli might seem like a quantum leap for those unfamiliar with the industry, Mattson and Difilippo said it was part of their original plans when they opened the pub.
“It’s definitely something different, but we had the confidence that we could do it,” Difilippo said.
The deli fits in well with the restaurant, because it gives diners the chance to try their most loved recipes and items at home, he said.
“It’s a lot of our favorites, and the reception has been real positive,” he said.
Mattson agreed and said the deli has already gained a loyal following in the few months it’s been open.
“Local residents will come by after work to get something for supper, and the boaters love it,” she said.
The deli has also become popular with the downtown lunch crowd as it provides a quick place to grab a bite and return to work, she said.
As a testament to its resemblance to its European counterparts, Mattson said a German tourist paid the deli the ultimate compliment recently.
“She said, ‘I finally feel a little at home,’” Mattson recalled.
To continue meeting that goal of being an authentic European deli, the pair is working with Uli’s Famous Sausages to bring its entire range of meats to Little Norway, Mattson said.
With Mattson focused on the meat and cheese selections, Difilippo said his goal is to have the best selection of European beers in town.
“We try to have beers that can’t be found anywhere else,” he said. “We’re still looking to expand.”
Amid all the beers, cheeses and meats, Mattson said there is something for customers of all ages.
“We have lots of things for kids,” she said. “We want to be as family friendly as possible.”