You have to admire the way one of the best stories in Capitol Hill food and drink in 2018 has played out… all the way into 2019.

Dingfelder’s Delicatessen, now riding a solid 12 months of hype, has grown into the old commercial kitchen building it took over at 14th and Pine so gradually, that, yes, we’re giving it a headline for finally adding seating.

Last month, the deli from Stephanie Hemsworth and chef Vance Dingfelder debuted the cutting edge new feature as they have slowly, but surely grown into the space. Someday, their plan for a full overhaul of the building neighboring Aria Salon might just play out. Hemsworth told us last year about plans for the old building to undergo a full renovation, restoring its original architecture and adding a new entrance at the corner. Inside, where a commercial kitchen has been in operation, the couple will have an overhauled facility to run their Nourish Catering company out of and for creating Dingfelder’s delicacies.

Dingfelder’s menu also continues to grow from its corned beef and pastrami base where the sandwiches have made headlines for their $18 price — and deliciousness. Hemsworth said the plan is to continue slowly adding new items like the matzo ball soup or late night hash.

Along with the Eastern European and Jewish “comfort food” now available on E Olive Way at Dacha Diner, progress at Dingfelder’s Delicatessen — even methodical, small things like chairs and tables — should warm up winter lunch options and give Capitol Hill a solid start on the new year.

Dingfelder’s Delicatessen is located at 1318 E Pine and open 11 AM to 7 PM daily, 11 AM to 3 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. You can learn more at facebook.com/pg/Dingfelders.

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