Aqua Sol//Photo by Steve Legato.
Key
* 2015 Best of Delaware winner
fb: Indicates that the restaurant does not have a Web site, but does have a Facebook page.
B, L, D, SB, WB: Indicates that a restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch, and weekend brunch.
The dollar symbols indicate how much you can expect to pay for an average dinner entrée.
$ Most entrées under $15
$ $ Most entrées $15-$22
$ $ $ Most entrées over $22
Bear
3006 Summit Harbour Place, Bear, 365-6490
This Cuban and South Beach-inspired spot at Summit North Marina offers water views of the C&D Canal and terrific cuisine. L, D $$
El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant (Mexican)
560 Eden Circle, Bear, 836-6477
Authentic fare such as carnitas and carne asada, daily dinner and drink specials, cantina decor and a festive atmosphere make it a fave. L, D $$
Kenny’s Pan Asian Cuisine & Sushi Bar (Asian)
1255 Quintilio Drive, Bear, 838-1725
Asian fusion dishes and a sushi bar in a contemporary dining space. L, D $$
1847 Pulaski Hwy., Bear, 392-2244
Traditional veal, seafood and pasta dishes, plus a few originals. L, D $$
Stewart’s Brewing Company (Brew Pub)
219 Governors Place, Bear, 836-2739
Known for a wide selection of award-winning brews made on the premises and good tavern fare. L, D $$
Greenville/Centreville/Hockessin
3801 Kennett Pike, Greenville, 543-4053; 701 Ace Memorial Drive, Hockessin, 235-0333; 3205 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 407-6669
Family friendly, it offers standout sandwiches, ribs and burgers. L, D $
425 Hockessin Corner, Hockessin, 239-2314
Affordable fine dining in a historic country-village setting. Famous pumpkin-mushroom soup, homemade crème brûlée and gourmet to go. L, D $$
* BBC Tavern and Grill (American)
4019 Kennett Pike, Greenville, 655-3785
Enjoy the brew pub’s famous pretzels with mustard, nachos and corn-and-crab chowder. Local artwork, repurposed church pews and a mahogany bar create a gastropub feel. L, D $$
5812 Kennett Pike, Centreville, 656-9776
Chef Tom Hannum, has weaved some upscale touches into a menu of traditional pub grub. Find proof in the signature Buckley’s Burger and the foie gras. The Sunday pajama brunch is legendary. L, D, SB $$$
* Capers & Lemons Italian Restaurant & Market (Italian)
301 Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, 256-0524
This interpretation of a contemporary Italian restaurant includes grilled meats, seafood and pasta made by hand. Catering and private dining are available. L, D $$
Cromwell’s American Tavern & Taqueria (American/Mexican)
3858 Kennett Pike, Greenville, 571-0561
Mexican dishes and favorites such as Guinness beef stew, burgers and wings. L, D $$$
228 Lantana Drive, Hockessin, 239-3825
Authentic Chinese fare in an elegant setting with reasonable prices. The General Tso’s chicken is a favorite. Ask for the real Chinese menu. L, D $$
144 Lantana Drive, Hockessin, 234-4430
Drip Café works directly with coffee growers to get the best fair trade beans. Sampling varietals from around the world is every bit as interesting as sampling wines or scotches. The café also works with local farmers to ensure the most delicious foods possible. B, L $$
* The House of William & Merry (American)
1336 Old Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, 234-2255
This refurbished 1920s farm house has been re-imagined as a contemporary showcase for such fare as veal sweetbreads cooked in brown butter with wild mushrooms and baby arugula. L, D, SB $$$
3801 Kennett Pike, Greenville, 654-9941
Visit J’s Café for soups, sandwiches, burgers, paninis, pizza, platters and the coffee bar. B, L $
Del. 100 and Kirk Road, Montchanin, 888-4200
Housed in a renovated blacksmith shop, Krazy Kat’s is famous for fresh, seasonal, creative cuisine and whimsical decor. B, L, D, SB $$$
1318 Old Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, 239-7816
Whether it’s soups, salads, sandwiches, sides or its popular broasted chicken, Lettie’s is all about home cookin’. Check for daily meal specials. L, D $
703 Ace Memorial Drive, Hockessin, 239-8486
Vegetarian, tempura, sushi, seafood and more are served in an intimate room by the family that introduced Delaware to sushi. L, D $$
Pizza by Elizabeths (American)
3801 Kennett Pike, Greenville, 654-4478
Create your own gourmet pizza with toppings such as local goat cheese and special sauces. Soups and desserts are top notch. Salad combos are endless. L, D, SB $$
Redfire Grill & Steakhouse (Steak House)
400 Lantana Drive, Hockessin, 235-2600
Its menu features aged black Angus steaks, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list. Redfire is a destination for people seeking a stylish, contemporary and affordable restaurant. L, D, SB $$
Bella Coast in North Wilmington//Photo by Joel Plotkin |
Greater Newark
* Ali Baba Middle Eastern Cuisine (Moroccan)
175 E. Main St., Newark, 738-1111, fb
Sit on comfortable couches surrounded by pillows while you enjoy stuffed grape leaves, humus, baba ganoush and fare like pastille of chicken with raisins and cinnamon baked in puff pastry. L, D $
721 College Square, Newark, 368-9933
A great spot for group events or a romantic meal. Enjoy fresh sushi and affordable prices. L, D $
* The Brasserie Grill (American)
100 Continental Drive, Newark, 781-7000
In the Hilton Wilmington-Christiana Hotel, this excellent restaurant specializes in certified Angus beef and fresh seafood. The crab cakes are awesome. L, D $$$
90 E. Main St., Newark, 738-5811
A great place to spend a romantic evening or to celebrate a special event. Features a 1,500-bottle wine cellar and sells 24 flavors of homemade gelato.
L, D, WB $$$
The Chicken House Peruvian Cuisine (Peruvian)
1224 Capitol Trail, Newark, 737-2426
This unpretentious restaurant is the place for savory grilled chicken and outstanding ceviche. L, D $
Claymont Steak Shop (American)
57 Elkton Road, Newark, 453-9500
Locally famous for delicious cheesesteaks, plus subs, burgers, salads and pizza. L, D $
* Courtyard Bistro–Courtyard by Marriott Newark (American)
400 David Hollowell Drive, Newark, 737-0900
Dinner features the restaurant’s famous fresh lump crab cakes and other fine entrées. B, D $$
507 Thompson Station Road, Newark, 368-6640
One of the best Sunday brunch buffets in the region features an omelet station, raw bar and a heavenly selection of pastries. (Late September through early May and select holidays). SB $
* The Deer Park Tavern (American)
108 W. Main St., Newark, 369-9414
The college-town classic offers something for everyone, whether lunch, dinner, cocktails or Sunday brunch. It’s famous for nachos. Its beer selection, including locally brewed Taylor’s Grog, won’t disappoint. L, D, SB $$
60 N. College Ave., Newark, 737-8220
Burritos, enchiladas, chimichangas and tamales are staples of the 200-dish menu, along with chilaquiles. The margaritas rule. Vegetarian friendly. L, D $
El Jefe Restaurant & Mexican Grill (Mexican)
110 Astro Shopping Center, Newark, 894-9000
Enjoy Old World Mexican cuisine. Best- known for its homemade salsas, tacos, molcajete, seafood, chicken and steak dishes, and a great selection of tequilas. L, D $
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill (American)
1225 Churchmans Road, Newark, 366-7577
Firebirds features well-seasoned steaks, ice-cold martinis and wood-grilled specialties, plus seafood, burgers, salads and homemade desserts served in an Aspen-style room. L, D $$
126 E. Main St., Newark, 266-6993
The emphasis is on fresh, local and healthy. Find seasonal homemade soups and specialties, vegetarian and vegan dishes, and beers from around the world. L, D, WB $$
* Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant (brew pub)
147 E. Main St., Newark, 266-9000
Award-winning handcrafted brews with a creative sandwich, specialty pizza or delicious entrée. L, D $$
J.B. Dawson’s Restaurant & Bar (American)
315 Christiana Mall, Newark, 369-4000
Grilled beef, chicken and seafood are delicious, but the barbecued ribs are outstanding. L, D $$
120 Four Seasons Pkwy., Newark, 738-9935
Step into a charming environment with modern elegance. Signature dishes include the fusili Santa Maria, with shrimp, scallops and crabmeat in an aurora sauce, and veal saltimbocca. L, D $$$
Maharaja Authentic Indian Cuisine (Indian)
Shops of Red Mill, 1450 Kirkwood Hwy., No. 121, Newark, 369-1202
Maharaja offers favorites like tandoori chicken, mutter paneer, aloo gobhi, yellow dal and lamb vindaloo. L, D $$
8 Polly Drummond Shopping Center, Newark, 738-7814; 108 Peoples Plaza, Newark, 834-6661
Guests can enjoy a casual meal, a drink and a game. L, D $$
Michael’s Restaurant (American)
1000 Churchmans Road, Newark, 368-4230
Brick-oven pizza, wings, sliders, shrimp tacos, prime rib, fajitas, soups, sandwiches, seafood, martinis and coffee drinks. B, L, D, SB $$
132 E. Main St., Newark, 731-3104
Mizu specializes in preparing high-quality sushi and sashimi at affordable prices. You will find nigiri and maki, not complicated fusion dishes served entrée-style. L, D $
Morelia Mexican Restaurant & Bar (Mexican)
Del. 4 at Harmony Road, Newark, 369-6888, fb
Enchiladas, fajitas and chimichangas served in a casual family atmosphere. Full bar with specialty margaritas. L, D $$
* Olé Tapas Lounge & Restaurant (Spanish)
1126 Capitol Trail, Newark, 224-9378
Modern Spanish decor with plenty of cozy booths is perfect for sharing authentic Spanish dishes with friends. Sample two kinds of sangria as well as classic wines. L, D $$
1146 Pulaski Hwy., Bear, 595-2529
Pho Nhu Vu is devoted to the classic Vietnamese beef noodle soup. Other dishes include rice and vermicelli with chicken, pork, beef and shrimp. L, D $
Potstickers Asian Grill & Sushi Bar (Asian)
1247 Churchmans Road, Newark, 731-0188
Warm, modern decor features a waterfall and wall of Buddhas. Gourmet fare includes Cantonese, Chinese and other styles prepared with European flair, as well as sushi. L, D $$$
* Santa Fé Mexican Grill & Bar (Mexican)
190 E. Main St., Newark, 369-2500
Choose from an assortment of seafood and Mexican platters, homemade margaritas, mojitos and sangria. Also, weekday happy hour and late night specials. B, L, D, WB $$
Sinclair’s Café (American)
177 E. Main St., Newark, 368-7755, fb
Cozy, unpretentious Sinclair’s Café is a Newark classic. Owner Jeffrey Sinclair started emphasizing fresh and natural long before it was in vogue. For breakfast, you’ll find real maple syrup, and your coffee cup will never go empty. B, L $
401 Louviers Drive, Newark, 456-1800
This nautical-themed spot serves local, seasonal fare, including crab cakes, pan-seared salmon, and crispy pork belly. L, D, SB $$
* Soffritto Italian Grill (Italian)
1130 Capitol Trail, Newark, 455-1101
Dine among a stunning water sculpture and fireplace. Enjoy whole fish entrées and pasta dishes including homemade pastas. L, D $$
Stone Balloon Ale House (American)
115 E. Main St., Newark, 266-8111
Crafted food including seasonal favorites, exceptional beer and classic cocktails redefined—all flavored with a dash of nostalgia. D $$
2653 Kirkwood Hwy., Newark, 366-1188
Sumo has all the hallmarks of a great sushi spot: a nice variety of quality sushi at fair prices. L, D $
121 E. Main St., Newark, 444-4334
A warm, welcoming place that charms with rustic brick walls, paneling of barn siding and an open kitchen that displays a coal-burning pizza oven. Food includes pasta dishes, meats such as braised pork shank and chicken cacciatore, seafood and those pizzas. L, D, SB $$
Timothy’s of Newark (American)
100 Creek View Road, Newark, 738-9915
Daily specials, an award-winning happy hour and casual fare, including burgers and ribs. L, D $$
2 Chesmar Plaza, Del. 4 and Marrows Road, Newark, 294-1890
Gastropub fare such as braised short rib and extensive craft brews in bottles and rotating on the taps make it a local favorite. L, D, SB $
Vallé Cucina Italiana (Italian)
4752 Limestone Road, Pike Creek, 998-9999
Crab cakes, hand-cut steaks and crabmeat ravioli are offered in a casual atmosphere. Extensive wine list and specialty drinks. L, D $$
Middletown/Delaware City
423 N. Broad St., Middletown, 376-7956
Named for the year the town was founded, 1861 offers a casual, elegant space that serves simple cuisine made with local ingredients. Signature cocktails, microbrews and wine compliment the seasonal menu. D $$$
109 Main St., Odessa, 376-0600
Cantwell’s features upscale casual dining in early 19th-century ambience in historic Odessa. Find classic and new American pub fare and a wide selection of craft brews. L, D, SB $$
264 Dove Run Shopping Center, Middletown, 449-0000
In addition to great pizza, find baked pasta dishes such as lasagna, specialties like eggplant Parmigiana, and delicious chicken and veal, all at modest prices. L, D $$
30 Clinton St., Delaware City, 832-5100
This casual, family friendly venue in a historic hotel serves tavern favorites, including its signature crab balls. L, D $$
The Grille at Back Creek (American)
101 Back Creek Drive, Middletown, 378-6499
The menu includes something for everyone, with entrées from beef to seafood, including crab cakes. Also find burgers, sandwiches and regular weekly and happy hour specials. L, D, $$
39 W. Main St., Middletown, 378-8326
The intimate room offers pasta dishes, classic chicken and veal, and seafood. L, D $$
424 E. Main St., Middletown, 378-9338
Pho is a Vietnamese dish of noodles, meats, vegetables and seasonings in broth. Ingredients vary by region, though Nhu Vu offers all the favorites, as well as traditional dishes such as fried rices and clay pot meals. L, D $
Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant & Bar (Mexican)
431 E. Main St., Middletown, 378-9900
Authentic mole and good ceviche, plus a menu loaded with the standards. The sizzling molcajete is a favorite. L, D $$
New Castle
201 N. Dupont Hwy. New Castle, 322-3279
This landmark spot is known for its home-style cooking and desserts from its on-site bakery. B, L, D $
1612 N. Dupont Hwy., New Castle, 299-1414
Located in the Clarion Hotel, Augusta Grille serves traditional dishes with a Southern flair. B, L, D $$
Jessop’s Tavern & Restaurant (American)
114 Delaware St., New Castle, 322-6111
With Colonial American, English and Swedish influences, the cozy tavern is known for fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and a great selection of beer. L, D $$
Lestardo’s Crab House (Seafood)
135 Christiana Road, New Castle, 328-5070, fb
Lestardo’s offers pub decor with the requisite nautical decorations, cold draft beer and fairly priced crabs all year. Get there early. D $$
Nora Lees French Quarter Bistro (Cajun)
124 Delaware St., New Castle, 322-7675
Cajun and creole cuisine such as po’ boy sandwiches and jambalaya is served in a N’awlins atmosphere. L, D $$
8th & Union Kitchen in Wilmington//Photo by Luis Javy Diaz |
Wilmington
8th & Union Kitchen (Gastropub)
801-805 N. Union St., Wilmington, 654-9780
American gastropub with a Southeast Asian influence, cocktails, craft beers and a great vibe. L, D, SB $$
At the Rail Wine Bar & Grille (American)
777 Delaware Park Blvd., Wilmington, 994-2521
Amazing beef and delicious seafood dishes are served in a traditional setting with an unparalleled view of White Clay Creek Country Club’s golf course. L, D, SB $$$
104 N. Union St., Wilmington, 654-8555
This authentic Thai restaurant offers a cozy, casual setting and classic dishes such as Pad Thai. L, D $$$
Bella Luna Ristorante (Italian)
729 N. Union St., Wilmington, 654-4400, fb
Traditional Italian entrées, like chicken piccata, organic salads, homemade pastas and heavenly pizza. L, D $$
804 Brandywine Blvd., Bellefonte, 761-9175
Fun, funky and laid-back, with a menu of terrific fresh food that shows influences from around the world. Music six nights a week. L, D, SB $$
* Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront (American)
720 Justison St., Wilmington, 652-3474
Fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, savory pasta dishes and delicious salads are offered at reasonable prices in a fun, family atmosphere with impeccable service and a river view. L, D $$
Bistro Jacques (French-Belgian)
607 N. Lincoln St., Wilmington, 888-2201
A warm welcome, the Belgian way. Enjoy authentic moules frites, French classics, Belgian beer and affordable wines in a cozy atmosphere. D $$
1007 N. Orange St., Wilmington, 658-7050
This romantic spot is known for its traditional pasta dishes, grilled seafood and martini bar. Wine and beer tastings are held regularly on the patio in season. L, D $$$
3612 Miller Road, Wilmington, 762-5818
Friendly service, homemade Italian dishes and delicious Sicilian tomato pie. L, D $$
4737 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 478-8288
Past the front pizza counter is a warm dining room where you can enjoy the full range of Italian standards. L, D $$
2600 Concord Pike, Wilmington 478-2165; Kirkwood Highway and Greenbank Road, Wilmington, 998-8853
This classic 1950s-style restaurant is famous for delicious burgers and milkshakes, sandwiches, low-priced comfort-food entrées and ice-cream sundaes named for local high school teams. L, D $
821 N. Market St., Wilmington, 482-3333
With a great beer selection and fare like wood-oven pizzas, Chelsea creates comfort food on the cutting edge, all served in a contemporary room. L, D, WB $$
The Chicken House Peruvian Cuisine (Peruvian)
1504 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, 793-1504
This unpretentious restaurant is the place for grilled chicken and outstanding ceviche. L, D $
* Claymont Steak Shop (American)
3526 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, 798-0013; 2620 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 478-1500
A no-frills place famous for delicious cheesesteaks, plus subs, burgers, salads and pizza. L, D
405 N. King St., Wilmington, 384-6186
Margaritas and festive Mexican fare in a fun urban setting. Paella and ‘Molcajetes’ served family-style. Happy hour 4-6 p.m. weekdays. L, D $$
2216 Pennsylvania Ave. Wilmington, 571-1492
The historic home is an icon, where devoted patrons gather for classic cocktails, interesting wines and upscale casual dining. L, D, SB $$$
3604 Silverside Road, Wilmington, 477-1778
The hallmark is great wine and light bistro cuisine that leans toward French and is made with local, sustainably grown and delicious ingredients. The service is exceptional. The Cake is a local classic L, D, SB $$
Cosmos Restaurant (American/Greek)
316 S. Maryland Ave., Wilmington, 994-0920
Its all-day breakfast includes the signature cream chipped beef, Greek specialties like pastitsio, spanakopita and moussaka, seafood, sandwiches, wraps and desserts. Also, beer, wine and cocktails. B, L, D $
1812 Marsh Road, Wilmington, 475-4860
A casual atmosphere dressed in the colors of Tuscany, with an always interesting menu of food done well. D $$$
De La Coeur Café et Patisserie (Café)
1836 N. Lovering Ave., Wilmington, 660-7178
This new French-inspired café features locally sourced, sustainably produced and seasonal foods as both sweet and savory dishes—and there is a wide variety of pastries. B, L $
DiMeo’s Pizzaiuoli Napulitani (Italian)
831 N. Market St., Wilmington, 655-1427
Authentic Neapolitan pizza made with imported ingredients such as San Marzano tomatoes. L, D $$
1314 Washington St., Wilmington, 655-9463
An intimate, sophisticated, casually elegant place that features small plates and entrées that complement an extensive wine list. D $$$
1020 N. Union St., Wilmington, 658-1588
Tiny Eclipse artfully blends innovative cuisine, an award-winning wine list and genuine hospitality in one of the state’s finest places. L, D $$$
El Diablo Burritos (Mexican)
13A Trolley Square, Wilmington, 691-5532, fb
Enjoy big California-style burritos made with unusual fillings such as braised short rib and goat cheese or standards such as adobo chicken and pepper-Jack cheese, as well great salads, tacos and quesadillas. L, D $
El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant (Mexican)
1700 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, 791-9566
Authentic fare served in an airy room with colorful decor and mariachi musicians on some weekend nights. Its margaritas are famous. L, D $$
Ernest & Scott Taproom (American)
902 Market St., Wilmington, 384-8113
A taproom with a twist—an expertly curated list of craft brews—featuring shared plates and an ever-changing selection of wine, coffee and cocktails. L, D $$$
1409 N. King St., Wilmington, 655-3000
Evelyn Johnson is famous for her fish fries, delicious baked chicken and pork chops, plus sides sides such as macaroni and cheese, greens, black-eyed peas and more. B, L, D $
3701 Lancaster Pike, Wilmington, 998-9501
Feby’s has served fresh, seasonal seafood since 1974 in a comfortable, casual setting. L, D $$
Firestone Roasting House (American)
110 S. West St., Wilmington, 658-6626
Hand-crafted pizzas, signature steaks, the freshest seafood, specialty sandwiches and creatively prepared salads are served. The patio overlooks the Christina River. Live music on weekends. L, D $$
3619 Silverside Road, Wilmington, 478-5935
Delicious entrées, sides, appetizers and desserts for takeout to bake at home. Also, lunch served on-site and now hot dinners to go. L, D $
* Green Room, Hotel du Pont (French)
11th and Market streets, Wilmington, 594-3154
The height of fine dining. Enjoy delectable cuisine, fine wine and white-glove service while seated in an expansive rococo room featuring carved ceilings and chandeliers. B, L, D, SB $$$
* Harry’s Savoy Grill (American)
2020 Naamans Road, Wilmington, 475-3000
Known for its oven-roasted prime rib, fresh seafood, raw bar, and beautiful atmosphere of wood paneling and soft lighting. Specialty cocktails. Consistent Wine Spectator awards. L, D $$$
* Harry’s Seafood Grill (American)
101 S. Market St., Wilmington, 777-1500
Creative and traditional seafood and an extensive raw bar. Great wine selection and specialty martinis are offered with a changing menu of fresh, modern seafood dishes. L, D $$$
1811 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 655-1348
A fave for great tasting food—including breakfast all day—value and super friendly service. B, L, D $
101 N. Maryland Ave., Wilmington, 655-8772
Good Indian curries and tandoori dishes served in a no-frills atmosphere. L, D $
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant (Brew Pub)
620 Justison St., Wilmington, 472-2739
Enjoy award-winning, handcrafted ales or lagers with a creative sandwich, specialty pizza or entrée. L, D $$
Jasmine Asian Cuisine (Asian)
3618 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 479-5618, fb
Thai, Korean, Chinese and Japanese are served in a contemporary setting. The sushi bar changes often. L, D $$
3401 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 477-1440
Fun foods featuring beef, veggie, turkey and jumbo hot dogs served with a wide selection of toppings. L, D $
Juliana’s Kitchen (Peruvian)
1828 W. 11th St., Wilmington, 888-1828, fb
A homey place that serves authentic fare—seafood, including ceviche, chicken and beef, fried rice dishes and parihuela, a traditional soup. L, D $
1701 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, 652-9493
This historic tavern in Trolley Square for patrons 21 and older offers solid pub grub and a rockin’ nightlife. L, D, WB $$
Kid Shelleen’s Charcoal House & Saloon (American)
1801 W. 14th St., Wilmington, 658-4600
This fun restaurant has been the place to go for fairly priced entrées and pasta dishes, as well as pub grub, for 30 years. L, D, WB $$
Kooma Restaurant & Lounge Bar (Asian)
400 Justison St., Wilmington, 543-6732
Sushi and Asian fusion dishes served among soaring ceilings and sleek contemporary decor. L, D $$
Kyoto Japanese Cuisine (Japanese)
4563 New Linden Hill Road, Wilmington, 368-9882
A variety of authentic dishes ranges from potstickers and shumai to miso and seaweed salad to sushi, teriyakis, tempuras and more. L, D $$
La Fia Bakery + Market + Bistro (American)
421 N. Market St., Wilmington, 543-5574
This intimate bistro owned by a James Beard award semifinalist features European-inspired lunch and dinner menus, plus an artisan bakery and market with small-batch bread, whole bean coffees and more. L, D $$
2209 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 778-4646; 4015 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 478-9477
Serves home-style burritos, enchiladas, chimichangas, tamales, chilaquiles and great margaritas. L, D $
Le Shio Asian Fusion Cuisine (Asian)
2303 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 888-0145
From the chef’s special to sashimi and sushi rolls to create-your-own-wok dishes and a few American entrées, Le Shio appeals with fair prices and industrial-chic decor. L, D $$
777 Delaware Park Blvd., Wilmington, 994-2521
This terrific restaurant at Delaware Park features seafood, steaks, homestyle soups, delicious crab cakes and an amazing view. L, D $$
Lucky’s Coffee Shop & Restaurant (American)
4003 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 477-0240
A retro-hip, casual spot known for diner classics and homemade desserts. B, L, D $$
Luigi Vitrone’s Pastabilities (Italian)
415 N. Lincoln St., Wilmington, 656-9822, fb
Authentic, regional dishes are reasonably priced at this Little Italy favorite, which was included in Zagat’s 2008 America’s Top 1,000 Italian Restaurants guide. D $$$
3209-B, Concord Pike, Wilmington, 477-0700; 3505 Silverside Road, Wilmington, 543-7498
Serves fresh bagels and coffee daily. B, L $
1601 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 652-6358
Dip breads and vegetables into cheese fondue made at the table, then cook your own entrée. Finish with a decadent chocolate fondue. Booths lend privacy. D $$$
3100 Naamans Road, Wilmington, 478-3939
A fun atmosphere features the big games on TV in the lounge and Mexican food, including seafood specialties and vegetarian choices, that gets a twist. L, D $$
Mikimotos Asian Grill & Sushi Bar (Asian)
1212 Washington St., Wilmington, 656-8638
Contemporary decor and sushi, such as the Hairy Mexican roll of fried shrimp, crab stick and eel sauce, make it a favorite. The menu includes a variety of Asian fusion dishes. L, D $$$
1307 N. Scott St., Wilmington, 777-1800
Moro has earned Zagat’s highest rating in Delaware. The seasonal menu displays a humble approach to preparing the finest foods, such as the signature duck confit salad with baby arugula, endive, Parmesan and Meyer lemon-Port-mint vinaigrette. The wine list is wide-ranging. D $$$
3100 Naamans Road, No. 9, Wilmington, 477-0288
The folks here know the customers by name. The pizza is awesome. So are the cheesesteaks. L, D $
Palettes Restaurant (American)
4727 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 478-6000 Upscale casual dining in the Doubletree Hotel. B, L, D $$$
1412 N. Dupont St., Wilmington, 654-8001
This favorite features hand-rolled pastas, grilled meats and fish, and artisanal pizzas from the brick hearth. Toscana also has a happening bar scene and a carryout shop. L, D, SB $$$
913 N. Market St., Wilmington, 654-9131
“Health to go” for breakfast and lunch—specialty sandwiches, salad bar, Korean barbecue, real fruit smoothies, coffee drinks and more. B, L $
Pochi Chilean Cuisine and Wine Bar (Chilean)
220 W. Ninth St., Wilmington, 384-6654
Along with its menu of dishes prepared from handwritten family recipes, the cozy spot features a roster of Latin American wines, most available by the glass. L, D $$
Rasa Sayang Malaysian Cuisine (Malaysian)
1601 Concord Pike, No. 73, Wilmington, 543-5286
With its mix of Thai, Indian and Chinese fare, Rasa Sayang impresses with roti pancakes, satays, and noodle and rice dishes. L, D $$
18 Carpenter Plaza Road, Wilmington, 529-1985
This steak and seafood place offers fun appetizers, an assortment of salads and the chef’s featured menu that includes dishes like cilantro-lime shrimp skewers. There’s also a roster of signature drinks and live entertainment. L, D $
818 Shipyard Drive, Wilmington, 397-5518
In The Westin Wilmington, River Rock features flavorful American fare crafted of indigenous, seasonal ingredients, served as small plates for variety and for sharing. B, L, D $$
Santa Fé Mexican Grill & Bar (Mexican)
2006 Pennsylvania Ave., Wilmington, 425-5200
Choose from an assortment of seafood and modern Mexican platters, margaritas, mojitos and sangria in a lively atmosphere. L, D $$
1709 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, 651-9188
This Trolley Square night spot packs in the younger set on weekends and everyone for lunch. L, D, SB $
2038 Foulk Road, Wilmington, 475-1887
Decorated with sports memorabilia, this is a longtime favorite for burgers, seafood, steaks, ribs—a house specialty—and a game on one of the HD-TVs. Bring the whole family. L, D, SB $$
Sullivan’s Steakhouse (Steak House)
5525 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 479-7970
The 1940s Chicago-style setting features superb steak, chicken, seafood, desserts, martinis and classic sides in portions big enough for two. Also, live jazz most evenings. D $$$
1601 Concord Pike, Wilmington, 658-8887
Authentic Japanese and Chinese cuisine is prepared by chef Hideyuki Okubo and beautifully presented in a contemporary dining room. L, D $$$
Timothy’s Riverfront Grill (American)
930 Justison St., Wilmington, 429-7427
Daily specials, happy hour and casual fare such as chicken, steaks, ribs and sandwiches are served in a comfortable casual atmosphere. L, D $$
* Tutto Fresco Italian Eatery (italian)
514 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington, 762-9094
Tutto Fresco—“everything fresh” in Italian—offers pasta, chicken, veal and seafood. Banquet room also available. L, D $
2502 Foulk Road, Wilmington, 439-3231
Like the original in Newark, a menu of excellent gastropub fare and extensive craft brews in bottles and rotating on the taps make it a local favorite. L, D, SB $
936 Justison St., Wilmington, 656-1706
Vivid reds and golds play against beautiful Thai art and sculpture. The families that bring you Ubon have more than 30 years of experience and lifetimes of recipes. The restaurant serves Thai standards such as delicious chicken, beef and seafood curries and pad Thai. L, D $$
1716 Marsh Road, Wilmington, 691-3456
A casual, stylish pub brimming with great beers and a fun vibe. Serves burgers, wings, sandwiches, nachos, and features a 24-tap bar and a rotating list of craft brews. L, D, SB $
Vincenza & Margherita Italian-American Bistro (Italian)
1717 Marsh Road, Wilmington, 479-7999
Traditional and contemporary Italian dishes, including fresh pasta, in a beautiful setting. L, D, $$
Walter’s Steakhouse (Steak House)
802 N. Union St., Wilmington, 652-6780
John Walter Constantinou’s landmark specializes in slow-roasted prime rib, steaks, seafood and outstanding wines. D $$$
Walt’s Chicken Express (American)
103 N. Lincoln St., Wilmington, 429-2587
Walt’s is famous for its pressure-fried chicken and sides. L, D $
Washington Street Ale House (American)
1206 Washington St., Wilmington, 658-2537
Classic appetizers, salads, soups, sandwiches and entrées served in a comfortable room of exposed brick walls and large windows. There are always 20 craft beers on tap. L, D, SB $$
World Cafe Live at the Queen (American)
500 N. Market St., Wilmington, 994-1400
Creative starters, salads, sandwiches, entrées and sides. Its full-bar service includes a top-notch wine list and a wide selection of craft beer, with happy-hour specials. The desserts are not to be missed. Enjoy your meal while watching some of the best local and national musical artists today. L, D $$
209 N. Market St., Wilmington, 543-4958; 901 N. King St., Wilmington, 482-1163
Always-fresh Indian classics are prepared healthfully. Create your own combinations of flavorful sauces, meats and vegetables. L, D $