When it comes to al fresco dining, Delawareans have plenty of options. From covered patios that stay open well into the cold season to restaurants with ocean and riverfront views, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a bite in the great outdoors. In recent years, outdoor dining trends have shifted away from perfectly manicured patios and toward a natural outdoor aesthetic. The demand for spots to enjoy garden dining is well-met in the First State. From breakfast cafes to happy hour hotspots to upscale dinner destinations, there are plenty of places to explore.
These eateries focus on garden-centric visuals and plenty of plant life. Here’s where to enjoy garden dining around Delaware.
Scout Cafe
Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or want to join friends for a lengthy brunch and chat, Scout Cafe’s garden is the perfect destination in Wilmington. Owner Nick Qaabar transformed a neglected alley area in Wilmington into a hidden oasis in the city. Most of the plants in the garden are native to Delaware, and the furniture is largely refurbished or made from reclaimed wood. Scout has also hosted a variety of events in the garden, including pop-up dinners in partnership with local chefs. During regular business hours, enjoy a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and salads along with coffee, matcha, or tea in the back garden.
2316 Baynard Boulevard, Wilmington
The Garden at Bardea
The Garden is nestled between Bardea Food & Drink and Bardea Steak on Wilmington’s Market Street. With comfortable seating, water fixtures, and plenty of plant life, The Garden is an ideal destination for outdoor dining. Thursday and Friday night happy hours feel like an upscale garden party with live music, upscale bites, and signature cocktails.
612 North Market Street, Wilmington
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The Quoin
At this boutique hotel in Wilmington, hotel guests and locals alike enjoy garden dining on the rooftop. Wilmington’s only rooftop bar is complete with stunning views, delightful bites, and plenty of cocktails. The lounge is lined with potted plants to frame the birds-eye view of Wilmington.
519 North Market Street, Wilmington
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The Cultured Pearl
The Quoin isn’t the only rooftop garden in Delaware. In Sussex County, this Rehoboth beach sushi hotspot boasts a stunning rooftop complete with a 5,000 gallon koi pond. Dine among the lily pads, greenery, and plenty of colorful flowers while breathing in ocean air from the Atlantic just a few blocks away.
301 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
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Somewhere
Tucked away on Baltimore Avenue, Somewhere is a local favorite for brunch and dinner in Rehoboth Beach. The restaurant’s outdoor dining area—appropriately named “The Oasis”—attracts diners throughout spring and summer. Bright umbrellas, potted plants, and picnic-style tables sit directly on the sand for the perfect beachy garden vibes. Patrons sip cocktails like mimosas, espresso martinis, and signature delights like the Lavender Bliss.
52 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
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The Station on Kings
The Station on Kings is Lewes’s hotspot for garden dining. With a garden center and home goods shop on-site, The Station ensures you’ll be among fellow plant lovers every time you dine at this charming cafe. Brunch is complete with cocktails, coffee, and freshly baked pastries. Dine in a covered dining area reminiscent of a greenhouse or outside among the flowers. After a delightful meal, shop around for plants and accessories to spruce up your own garden.
720 Kings Highway, Lewes
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 Related: 10 Spring Activities to Welcome the Season in Delaware
