Best of Delaware: Food and Drink in 2024

Discover Delaware Today's top picks for the best restaurants, food, breweries and more in the First State in 2024.

After-Work Takeout

Editors: Piccolina Toscana

Wilmington

It’s hard to define Toscana to Go, acknowledges owner Dan Butler. It serves as the café for the adjoining Piccolina Toscana, his Italian-inspired restaurant, and it’s ground zero for the catering department. But Toscana is Trolley Square’s takeout hub for hungry workers who are short on time. Order from the online menu or check out the display cases full of prepared foods, such as Asian flank steak, white-bean salad, grilled salmon and roasted mushrooms.

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Alfresco Dining

Downstate, Readers: Paradise Grill

Long Neck

Upstate, Readers: Banks Seafood Kitchen and Raw Bar

Wilmington

American Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Fish On

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Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Home Grown Cafe

Newark

Home Grown Cafe
Home Grown Cafe. Photo by Joe Del Tufo.

Appetizers

Downstate, Readers: Thompson Island Brewing Company

Rehoboth Beach

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Upstate, Readers: Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront

Wilmington

Authentic Filipino Cuisine

Editors: Tagpuan

Newark

Truly authentic Filipino cuisine can be hard to find, but Newark’s Tagpuan has found the recipe(s). Open since 2018, Chef Carlos Miranda has crafted a traditional yet inspired menu for guests seeking dishes straight from the Philippines. Diners rave about the pancit palabok, chicken afritada and halo halo. Generous portions and top-notch service make this cozy nook a great place to grab a soulful bite.

Bakery

Downstate, Readers: My Sister’s Fault

Milford

Upstate, Readers: Bing’s Bakery

Newark

Barbecue

Downstate, Readers: Bethany Blues BBQ

Bethany Beach, Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Limestone BBQ & Bourbon

Wilmington

Bites Along Your Bike Route

Editors: Grain H20

Bear

Cyclists can pull up to Bear’s Grain H20 for a casual bite and a great view of the marina on the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. Popular menu options include fried pickles, crab nachos and smash burgers. No need for reservations. Catch live music on the dog-friendly patio or drop by on a Tuesday or Thursday night for trivia or bingo. Lively crowds, waterfront views and tasty snacks make for a complete yet casual, dining experience.

Bethany Beach/Ocean View Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar Bethany

Bethany Beach

Big-City Vibe Without the Parking Hassle

Editors: Eclipse Bistro

Wilmington

In 1996, Carl Georigi made diners sit up and take notice. His newly opened Eclipse features sleek, contemporary décor and an innovative menu. It was as hip as any Philly hot spot. The restaurant continued to follow the trends, removing the white linen when diners wanted a more casual atmosphere and periodically freshening the dining room. Today, the menu is approachable, but the combination of ingredients shows finesse. For instance, the pork chop might come with toasted quinoa, crispy speck, mushrooms and cipollini onions.

Boozy Ice Cream

Editors: V&M Bistro

Wilmington

At V&M Bistro in Wilmington, diners can trade in their after-dinner drinks for some spiked ice cream instead. The Italian eatery is serving up premium liquor-infused ice cream from their “Barlour” for dessert. Indulge in coveted flavors like Chocolate Jameson Cold Brew and Bourbon Cherry Vanilla, served elegantly in a martini glass for an extra touch of sophistication. Co-owner sisters Vincenza and Margherita Carrieri-Russo also own Ice Cream Delight around the corner.

Bourbon Selection

Editors: Above the Dunes

Rehoboth Beach

Situated on the Rehoboth Boardwalk, Above the Dunes is known for its views and beachy décor. But despite the preponderance of teal and coral, the restaurant is better known for bourbon than rum. Sip it alone or enjoy the ATD Old Fashioned (Knob Creek), French 95 (Four Roses), Cranberry Cobbler Smash (Old Forester 100) or ATD Manhattan (1792 small batch).

Breakfast Spot

Downstate, Readers: Surf Bagel

Multiple locations

Upstate, Readers: The Peach Blossom Eatery

Newark

The Peach Blossom Eatery
The Peach Blossom Eatery. Courtesy of The Peach Blossom Eatery.

Brewpub

Downstate, Readers: Dogfish Head Brewing & Eats

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Iron Hill Brewery

Newark, Wilmington

Brunch

Downstate, Readers: The Starboard

Dewey Beach

The Starboard Claw
The Starboard Claw. Photo by Maria Deforrest.

Upstate, Readers: Kid Shelleen’s Charcoal House & Saloon

Wilmington

Burgers

Downstate, Readers: SmashMouth Burgers

Location varies

Upstate, Readers: Farmer & The Cow

Wilmington

Butcher Shop

Downstate, Readers: Hickman’s Meat Market

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Bachetti Bros.

Wilmington

Candy/Chocolate Shop

Downstate, Readers: Candy Kitchen

Multiple locations

Upstate, Readers: Govatos Chocolates

Wilmington

Catering

Downstate, Readers: Bethany Blues BBQ

Bethany Beach, Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Cantwell’s Tavern

Odessa

Centreville/Greenville Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Pizza by Elizabeths

Greenville

Pizza by Elizabeths
Pizza by Elizabeths. Photo by Joe Del Tufo.

Cheesesteaks

Downstate, Readers: Casapulla’s Subs

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Claymont Steak Shop

Claymont, Newark, Wilmington

Chef

Downstate, Readers: Maurice Catlett, SoDel Concepts

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Antimo Dimeo, Bardea Food & Drink and Bardea Steak

Wilmington

Chef’s Table Experience

Editors: Park Café

Wilmington

At Park Café in Wilmington, chef Michael Barbas offers a five-course custom menu for guests seeking a private dining experience. The menu is curated using only the freshest ingredients from local suppliers, and diners can choose a hand-selected wine to pair with their meal. While the restaurant serves breakfast and lunch during regular hours, Chef’s Table is offered Monday through Friday evenings, and reservations are a must. The eatery’s charming décor and picturesque patio make it the perfect setting for celebrating special occasions.

Chinese

Downstate, Readers: Confucius Chinese Cuisine

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Great Wall

Wilmington

Classic Diner

Downstate, Readers: Crystal Restaurant

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Lucky’s Coffee Shop

Wilmington

Classic Film & Dining Experience

Editors: Bar Reverie

Greenville

Mondays just got a lot more fun. Every week, Bar Reverie hosts Cinemondays, an evening event featuring classic films, fine finger foods and an excuse to gather with friends on a “school” night. For $55 (includes gratuity), enjoy a glass of sparkling wine, popcorn and a personalized grazing board with your movie, plus dessert and a goodie bag to go. Rough day at the remote office? Additional cocktails are available for purchase—just wave your “Another Drink Please!” fan from your seat, and your server will take your order.

Bar Reverie
Bar Reverie. Courtesy of Bar Reverie.

Coffee Shop

Downstate, Readers: The Station on Kings

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Brew HaHa!

Multiple locations

Crab Cakes

Downstate, Readers: Woody’s Dewey Beach Bar & Grill

Dewey Beach

Upstate, Readers: Feby’s Fishery

Wilmington

Craft Cocktails

Downstate, Readers: Lewes Oyster House

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Torbert Street Social

Wilmington

Creative Culinary Events

Editors: Benvenuto

Milford

This Tuscan-themed establishment near Route 1 is more than a first-class restaurant. It’s an entertainment venue. Join a wine, dessert or bourbon/spirit club. Learn to cook with chef Jesus Gordiany. Benvenuto has showcased OperaDelaware performers and expert mixologists. Fans, however, would maintain that dining at the Milford restaurant is an event in itself, thanks to murals and trompe l’oeil that transport guests to Tuscan towns, as well as Gordiany’s exceptional cuisine.

Date Night Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Lupo Italian Kitchen

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Bardea Steak

Wilmington

Dewey Beach Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Woody’s Dewey Beach Bar & Grill

Dewey Beach

Dover Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: McGlynns Pub

Dover

Fairfax/Brandywine Hundred Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Snuff Mill Restaurant, Butchery & Wine Bar

Wilmington

Family-Friendly Italian

Editors: La Casa Pasta

Newark

In 1978, Giuseppe and Anna Martuscelli started a small Glasgow restaurant with homestyle fare. Over the years, they expanded the space, and their family still owns the anchor eatery in the Martuscelli Restaurant Group. (Siblings include Klondike Kate’s Restaurant & Bar in Newark and the Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & Marina in Maryland.) Over the years, La Casa Pasta has set the stage for thousands of first dates, engagements, birthdays and anniversaries. Pasta, of course, is a preferred dish, along with pizza, veal and classic chicken entrées.

Family-Friendly Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Crooked Hammock Brewery

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Kid Shelleen’s Charcoal House & Saloon

Wilmington

Farmers Market

Downstate, Readers: Historic Lewes Farmers Market

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Dutch Country Farmers Market

Middletown

Fenwick Island/West Fenwick Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Harpoon Hanna’s

Fenwick Island

Fine Dining

Downstate, Readers: 1776 Steakhouse

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Harry’s Savoy Grill

Wilmington

Food Truck

Downstate, Readers: SmashMouth Burgers

Location varies

Upstate, Readers: Mojo Loco

Location varies

French

Downstate, Readers: La Baguette French Bakery

Dover

Upstate, Readers: La Fia Bistro

Wilmington

La Fia Bistro
La Fia Bistro. Photo by Joe Del Tufo.

Fried Chicken

Downstate, Readers: Kick n’ Chicken

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Walt’s Flavor Crisp Chicken

Wilmington

Gluten-Free Fare

Downstate, Readers: Good Earth Market & Restaurant

Ocean View

Upstate, Readers: Home Grown Cafe

Newark

Greek/Mediterranean

Downstate, Readers: Cafe Azafran

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Opa! Opa!

Wilmington

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Editors: Uncle John’s BBQ Stand

Wilmington

Ooey-gooey grilled cheese seekers know just where to go in Claymont. Uncle John’s BBQ Stand has mastered the art of crafting the crispy yet delightfully melty classic sandwich. Dine indoors by the striking black-and-white wall mural or opt for an outdoor bite at the former gas-station-turned-eatery’s picnic tables. Other menu favorites include smoked brisket, pulled pork and loaded tots.

Guest Bartender Nights

Editors: BBC Tavern

Greenville

Lift a glass to raising money at BBC’s bartending events. The tavern and grill partners with local organizations and sponsors to host guest bartending nights. Volunteer bartenders serve drinks and collect donations on behalf of their causes, ranging from animal shelters to arts initiatives. BBC provides reporting and analytic tools to ensure transparency in tracking donations.

Happy Hour

Downstate, Readers: The Starboard

Dewey Beach

Upstate, Readers: Columbus Inn

Wilmington

Health Food Market

Downstate, Readers: Good Earth Market & Restaurant

Ocean View

Upstate, Readers: Newark Natural Foods

Newark

Newark Natural Foods
Newark Natural Foods. Adobe Stock.

Hockessin/Pike Creek Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Capers & Lemons

Wilmington

Hot Dog

Downstate, Readers: Taco Reho

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: The Dog House

New Castle

Ice Cream

Downstate, Readers: Hopkins Farm Creamery

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Woodside Farm Creamery

Hockessin

Indian

Downstate, Readers: Raas

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Curry and Cocktails

Middletown

Italian (Neighborhood)

Downstate, Readers: Touch of Italy

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Mrs. Robino’s Restaurant

Wilmington

Italian (Upscale)

Downstate, Readers: DiFebo’s Restaurant

Bethany Beach

Upstate, Readers: Bardea Food & Drink

Wilmington

Jalapeño Chicken Salad

Editors: Harvest Market

Hockessin

This health-conscious market focuses on sourcing food from nature—GMO-free products, humanely raised meats, mostly organic produce and small-batch meals “made with love.” A robust selection of freshly prepared dishes includes outside-the-coop chicken salads you won’t find elsewhere. Even if we wanted to copy the curry and jalapeño chicken salads, we doubt we’d get it right. Thankfully, they’re a staple at Harvest Market.

Jamaican/Caribbean

Downstate, Readers: Nalu Surf Bar & Grill

Dewey Beach

Upstate, Readers: D&H Jamaican Cuisine

Newark

Japanese

Downstate, Readers: The Cultured Pearl Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Mikimotos

Wilmington

Late-Night Menu

Downstate, Readers: Rehoboth Ale House

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Two Stones Pub

Multiple locations

Lewes Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Agave

Lewes

Locally Roasted Beans

Editors: Little Goat Coffee Roasting Co.

Newark

Caffeine aficionados line up for Little Goat Coffee Roasting Co.’s “high-quality coffee with humility” in Newark. Founded by Joe Lins and Olivia Brinton, who is also a co-founder of The Peach Blossom Eatery in Newark, the go-to coffee shop uses only ethically sourced beans from around the world, serving classic espresso drinks like cappuccinos and lattes as well as seasonal beverages. While the café, which opened in 2016, is a great place to grab a piping-hot pick-me-up, you might also find its freshly roasted beans around town at your favorite eateries, grocers and workspaces.

Lunch on the Fairway

Editors: At the Rail Wine Bar & Grille

Wilmington

Whet your appetite playing 18 holes at White Clay Creek Country Club’s celebrated golf club, then head to the clubby restaurant At the Rail, which offers indoor and outdoor seating. The menu includes such enticements as salmon carpaccio, assorted flatbreads and short ribs with scallops, plus a full bill of potent potables. Sunday brunch features a prime rib buffet.

Lunch Spot

Downstate, Readers: Arena’s Deli & Bar

Multiple locations

Upstate, Readers: Cantwell’s Tavern

Odessa

Mexican

Downstate, Readers: Agave

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: La Tolteca

Wilmington

Microbrewery

Downstate, Readers: Dogfish Head Brewery

Milton

Upstate, Readers: Wilmington Brew Works

Wilmington

Middletown/Odessa/Townsend Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Cantwell’s Tavern

Odessa

Milford Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Surf Bagel

Milford

Neighborhood Café

Editors: Scout Café

Wilmington

Since its opening in 2023, this quaint spot in Wilmington’s Triangle Neighborhood has served up classic beverages, creative fare and a host of reasons to bring communities together. From artisan markets to open-mic events (and even a speed-dating soirée), owner Nicholas Qaabar never runs out of fresh ideas for lifting other area businesses and uniting like-minded locals. More recently, he turned an adjacent alleyway into a whimsical garden oasis, so now there’s even more space to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee or meet with friends.

New Castle/Old New Castle Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Jessop’s Tavern

New Castle

New Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Starboard Claw

Dewey Beach

Upstate, Readers: Three Amigos Mexican Grill

Wilmington

Three Amigos Mexican Grill
Three Amigos Mexican Grill. Photo by Joe Del Tufo.

Newark Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Taverna

Newark

North Wilmington Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Harry’s Savoy Grill

Wilmington

Old-Time Favorite

Editors: Charcoal Pit

Wilmington

Newcomers to Brandywine Hundred might do a double take when they spot the façade of this popular burger joint, which looks like a set from Back to the Future or Happy Days. Seemingly, not much has changed since 1956, when the Sam, Marty, Lou and Aaron Sloan brothers opened the restaurant. (The siblings also started The Dog House in New Castle.) Over the years, the restaurant has undergone renovations, but the décor stays true to its roots as the place where guys with crew cuts and girls with ponytails sipped milkshakes and shared fries after the big game.

Over the State Line, Maryland Restaurant

Over the State Line, Readers: Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & Marina

Chesapeake City

Over the State Line, Pennsylvania Restaurant

Over the State Line, Readers: Chadds Ford Tavern

Chadds Ford

Oysters

Downstate, Readers: Lewes Oyster House

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Trolley Square Oyster House

Wilmington

Pizza (Gourmet)

Downstate, Readers: Crust & Craft

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Pizza by Elizabeths

Greenville

Pizza (Traditional)

Downstate, Readers: Nicola Pizza

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Nick’s Pizza

Wilmington

Place for Wings & Football/Place to Catch the Game

Editors: Stanley’s Tavern

Wilmington

Stanley’s has been a Brandywine Hundred landmark since the 1930s, but it wasn’t until Bill Brooks purchased it in 1972 that the corner restaurant became a destination for sports fans. Partly, that’s because Brooks bought one of the area’s first large-screen TVs. Stanley’s was also on the cutting edge when it began selling Buffalo chicken wings, now the top-selling appetizer.

Place to Cool Off

Editors: Fusco’s Italian Water Ice

Wilmington

Since 1957, Fusco’s Original Water Ice has helped Wilmington’s Little Italy residents take the heat off. The red, white and green stand is famous for its fine, smooth ice, flavored with fresh lemon juice and flecks of zest. The new generation, however, has taken a broader view. Joe Staffieri added new flavors and a new food cart, a familiar site near Lewes Beach last year. In April, he opened a location on Kirkwood Highway. Both sites now serve tomato pie from Staffieri’s pal Nick Vouras of Nick’s Pizza.

Place to Get on the Wait List

Editors: The Brandywine Restaurant

Wilmington

Restaurateur Bill Irvin has a knack for creating a buzz. Three years after its opening, it’s still a coup to land a reservation at Snuff Mill Restaurant, Butchery & Wine Bar. Irvin’s latest addition, The Brandywine Restaurant, also boasts an air of exclusivity—an if-you-know-you-know vibe. The Brandywine’s elegant dining room sweetens the appeal; it’s a bit Orient Express and a little French bistro-ish. There’s nothing like it in Delaware for lunch, happy hour or dinner.

The Brandywine Restaurant
The Brandywine Restaurant. Photo by Becca Mathias.

Place to Have Honey Wine with Your Honey

Editors: Liquid Alchemy Beverages

Wilmington

Delaware’s first meadery and cidery boasts a 5,000-square-foot patio, perfect for sipping a fermented honey-based brew or hard cider outdoors. The funky, industrial décor of the indoor tasting room and production facility also draws a lively crowd. Founders Terry Sorantino and Jeffrey Cheskin pack the house with a steady stream of tasting events and local food truck collaborations, but the sweet taste of their award-winning meads, all made with local apiary preservative-free honey, keep patrons coming back.

Poke Bowl

Downstate, Readers: Nalu Surf Bar & Grill

Dewey Beach

Upstate, Readers: PoBu

Newark

Rehoboth Beach Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar Rehoboth

Rehoboth Beach

Restaurant Desserts

Downstate, Readers: Thompson Island Brewing Company

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Snuff Mill Restaurant, Butchery & Wine Bar

Wilmington

Restaurant Wine List

Downstate, Readers: Salt Air Kitchen & Bar

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Bardea Food & Drink

Wilmington

Salads

Downstate, Readers: Big Fish Grill Rehoboth

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Pizza by Elizabeths

Greenville

Sandwiches

Downstate, Readers: Arena’s Deli & Bar

Multiple locations

Upstate, Readers: Ioannoni’s Specialty Sandwiches

New Castle

Seafood Market

Downstate, Readers: Big Fish Market

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Feby’s Fishery

Wilmington

Seafood Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Fins Ale House & Raw Bar

Multiple locations

Upstate, Readers: Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront

Wilmington

Self-Guided Tours & Tastings

Editors: Nassau Valley Vineyards

Lewes

Delaware’s oldest winery, Nassau Valley offers free self-guided tours year-round, including a unique series of five galleries chronicling the 8,000-year history of wine. Each month, there’s a new art exhibit showcasing the work of regional painters, sculptors and photographers. Tastings of Nassau’s award-winning wines cost $15 and include a souvenir glass. Guided tours are available by appointment for groups of 15 or more.

Sidewalk Dining in the City

Editors: Tonic Seafood & Steak

Wilmington

Locals who wish to dine alfresco grab an outdoor table at Jamestown Hospitality Group’s Tonic Seafood & Steak. Ideal for people-watching, the sidewalk patio is in high demand in the warmer months. Whimsical orb lights create a soft glow outside, setting the mood for an intimate streetside meal. Menu favorites include the filet mignon and pan-roasted crab cakes.

Small Plates/Tapas

Downstate, Readers: Café Azafrán

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Ole Tapas

Newark

Special-Occasion Restaurant

Downstate, Readers: Salt Air Kitchen & Bar

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Harry’s Savoy Grill

Wilmington

Sports Bar

Downstate, Readers: Nicola Pizza

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: McGlynns Pub

Dover, Greenville, Newark

Sports Bar Makeover (Over the State Line)

Editors: Giordano’s

Kennett Square

In 2022, Giordano’s became a part of the Jamestown Hospitality Group, which also owns Tonic Seafood & Steak, and the landmark restaurant refreshed its look and menu. Catch the big game on the sports bar’s state-of-the-art TVs and choose from comfort-food classics like pizza, wings, burgers and nachos. The 14,000-square-foot space allows for plenty of elbow room to sip a refreshing draft beer or IPA. Happy hour runs every day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Steakhouse

Downstate, Readers: 1776 Steakhouse

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Walter’s Steakhouse

Wilmington

Steamed Crabs

Downstate, Readers: The Surfing Crab

Lewes

Upstate, Readers: Feby’s Fishery

Wilmington

Subs/Hoagies

Downstate, Readers: Casapulla’s Subs

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Capriotti’s

Multiple locations

Sunset & Seafood

Editors: Catch 54

Selbyville

If you Google this two-story restaurant, you’ll find photo after photo of tables overlooking a picturesque salt marsh with verdant grasses. More than a few include a purple sky and an orange setting sun. The seafood is as stellar as the evening views. Classic starters include pan-roasted clams, oysters Rockefeller and steamed shrimp. Entrées include fried jumbo shrimp, lobster Alfredo, and shrimp and grits. You’ll have no problem with the wine pairing; Catch 54 has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for four consecutive years.

Sushi

Downstate, Readers: The Cultured Pearl Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Mikimotos

Wilmington

Tacos

Downstate, Readers: Taco Reho

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Del Pez

Wilmington

Takeout (Over the State Line)

Editors: Kapow Kitchen

Garnet Valley

Booths Corner has long been a draw for its fresh, raw milk; hot-out-of-the-oven sticky buns; and smattering of delis and produce stands. Now, Kapow Kitchen is another reason visit Garnet Valley on Fridays and Saturdays. Originally a Delaware-based food truck serving up Thai, Korean and Hawaiian favorites (try the pad thai, bao bun pork-belly tacos and Kapow egg rolls), the Kitchen is a new(ish) brick-and-mortar offering fast, tasty takeout, plus a small dining area if you have time to eat in.

Thai

Downstate, Readers: Bodhi Kitchen

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Southeast Kitchen

Wilmington

Turkish Dining with a Twist

Editors: Aroma Mediterranean Cuisine

Rehoboth Beach

For centuries, the Ottoman Empire dominated parts of Eastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, creating a network of shared dishes, including kebabs, baklava, hummus, falafel, stuffed grape leaves and rice pilaf. However, there are variations depending on the region. At Aroma, owner Murat Tan takes an elevated approach to Middle Eastern and Turkish fare. The menu features lamb, of course, but Aroma is near the beach, so expect whole or filleted branzino and grilled fish.

Vegan/Vegetarian

Downstate, Readers: Good Earth Market & Restaurant

Ocean View

Upstate, Readers: Home Grown Cafe

Newark

Water-View Dining

Downstate, Readers: Big Chill Beach Club

Bethany Beach

Upstate, Readers: Iron Hill Brewery

Wilmington Riverfront

Wilmington, Center City Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Bardea Food & Drink

Wilmington

Wilmington, Little Italy Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Mrs. Robino’s Restaurant

Wilmington

Wilmington, Riverfront Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront

Wilmington

Wilmington, Trolley Square/Highlands/Rockford Park Restaurant

Upstate, Readers: Kid Shelleen’s Charcoal House & Saloon

Wilmington

Wine Store

Downstate, Readers: Atlantic Liquors

Rehoboth Beach

Upstate, Readers: Kreston Wine & Spirits

Wilmington, Middletown

Winery

Statewide, Readers: Salted Vines Vineyard & Winery

Frankford

Wood-Fired Flatbreads

Editors: Our Harvest

Fenwick Island

Variety is the spice of success at this Fenwick Island restaurant, which offers multiple seating options so that each guest is comfortable. The menu is as diverse as the setup. There are small plates for nibblers, platters for friends and families, and vegan selections. The flatbreads cover multiple bases. Go for the traditional (house-made tomato sauce, Italian buffalo milk mozzarella and pesto) or get fancy with a flatbread topped with andouille, chorizo, rotisserie chicken, tomato sauce, fried garlic and Calabrian chili honey.

Related: 18 Hot Sushi Spots for Rolls and Sashimi in Delaware

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