Take a dive into Delaware’s foodie scene, a collection of restaurants, chefs and cooking styles collectively known as the “culinary coast.” Enjoy the pure and simple pleasure of a pile of sweet crabs or steamed shrimp, dusted with spice and served with a chilly Delaware brew. These places exemplify the unique refinement of a coastal restaurant, so casually cool, so ready for a spark of romance.
Iconic Family Options
When exploring Delaware’s savory coastal cuisine, there are options on the menu for the whole family. Whether it’s a signature pizza swirl or bowling with a twist, even the pickiest eater will be satisfied with these options:
In the morning, try fresh unique donuts from Fractured Prune or grab NY-style bagels at Surf Bagel.
When lunchtime approaches, visit Nicola Pizza for their addictively filling “Nic-O-Bolis,” a stromboliesque masterpiece. Or spend the afternoon at Lefty’s Alley and Eats to experience upscale bowling, savory food and a round of laser tag.
Many a beachtime memory has been made just with Thrasher’s French Fries drizzled with vinegar, sprinkled with salt, then eaten on a bench.
Getting a slice (or two) of cheese-swirled Grotto Pizza Grand Slam is also practically obligatory here (with an indoor arcade for the kids).
For dinner options, Bethany Blues has luscious BBQ, Paradise Grill’s waterfront tropical vibe is perfect for a break from the water (you can even dock right at the restaurant) and Bethany Boathouse is an ideal spot for a juicy burger.
Ocean-Side Bites
Soothing dining plus a scenic view is a must when enjoying Delaware’s coastal cuisine. From outdoor dining on the dock at Catch54 Fishhouse to open-air boardwalk cuisine at Obie’s by the Sea, your picturesque view accompanied by delicious dining will make a memorable getaway awaits.
Down at Delaware Seashore State Park, the Big Chill Beach Club boasts ocean and bay views with gorgeous sunsets and tasty cocktails. Or head over to HammerHeads Dockside for boat docking, local seafood and of course scenic views.
99 Sea Level offers oceanfront views along the Bethany Beach boardwalk with creative cuisine and a rotating wine list. Or try Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar which offers fresh local seafood with a unique decor.
Fine Dining Destinations
By the time dinner rolls around, the ocean air will have no doubt reawakened your appetite enough for an experience at one of Coastal Delaware’s award-winning fine-dining restaurants, all of them artfully attired, and quite many of them also happily obsessed with (you guessed it) local produce and seafood.
- At the cutting edge stand such culinary landmarks as Salt Air, Back Porch Café and Henlopen City Oyster House.
- Savor the flavor of authentic Italian featuring seafood and a variety of martinis at DiFebo’s Restaurant.
- The Pines in Rehoboth Beach is a modern coastal tavern serving creative American cuisine and craft cocktails.
- Sedona in Bethany Beach is well known for its date night charm and upscale tapas.
Date Nights and Late Nights
It’s something about the sea: It inspires thoughts of romance, of staying up late into the evening, enjoying the happy buzz around the bar, sipping a hand-crafted cocktail.
- Blue Moon: Edgy and forward-leaning sensibilities lend a touch of beachy sophistication.
- Cultured Pearl: Long a favorite for a cozy, intimate meal (request a rooftop table for a view of the stars).
- Eden: Gauzy curtains add elegance to the cool, cozy ambiance of the fine dining favorite.
