Getting a table at your favorite beach restaurant often requires patience. Many coastal Delaware restaurants only accept walk-ins and often have long waits during peak season. One solution is to put your name in an hour or two before you want to be seated. However, for those who prefer to plan ahead and skip the wait, there are many options from Lewes all the way down to Fenwick Island. Here are 14 reservation-friendly restaurants to try next time you’re at the Delaware beaches.
(If you’re not planning a trip yet, bookmark this guide for future reference!)
Heirloom
This Lewes fine-dining spot accepts reservations five nights a week, Tuesday through Saturday. With a charming atmosphere and seasonal menus characterized by locally sourced ingredients, Heirloom is a local treasure. The eatery was nominated in both 2019 and 2020 for a James Beard Mid-Atlantic Award and, once you taste the food and craft cocktails, you’ll understand why. Reservations can be made online up to 30 days in advance.
212 Savannah Road, Lewes | 313-4065
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La Fable
The intimate French bistro has all the favorites, including escargot, French-style braised short ribs, and poulet cordon bleu. Reservations can be made online.
26 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-8510
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1776 Steakhouse
This Rehoboth Beach steakhouse is perfect for a date night. To enjoy a classic steak dinner without the wait, make an online reservation.
18585 Coastal Highway, Suite 6, Rehoboth Beach | 645-9355
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Back Porch Café
The iconic Back Porch is a longtime local favorite. Be sure to make your reservations as soon as possible. The restaurant fills up quickly with mainstays and local fans. Reservations can be made by phone during business hours.
59 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-3674
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Lewes Oyster House
This Lewes newcomer has been making waves in Delaware. If you haven’t given this oyster house a try, your next trip to the beaches is the perfect opportunity! Lewes Oyster House is open for lunch, but it accepts reservations for dinner only. You can book a table online through OpenTable.
108 2nd Street, Lewes | 644-7258
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Blackwall Hitch
One of two locations (the other is in Baltimore), Blackwall Hitch is known for seafood. The Maryland crab and corn chowder is a must-try. Visit for lunch or dinner throughout the week or for brunch on Sundays. Reservations can be made online.
52 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 226-0550
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Agave
The Lewes restaurant is a staple for Mexican-inspired fare at the beach. Enjoy inventive guacamole and modern spins on Mexican classics like fajitas, enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos and much more. Pair the meal with a margarita, paloma or another tequila-based cocktail for the ideal experience. Reservations can be made online.
137 2nd Street, Lewes | 645-1232
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Salt Air
Another farm-to-table option in Rehoboth Beach, Salt Air offers a locally inspired menu in a casual but refined atmosphere. With options ranging from hearty “from the farm” entrees and delicate seafood options to small bar bites and snacks, there’s something for everyone. The restaurant accepts online reservations for dinner and is a perfect choice for groups or a date night.
50 Wilmington Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-3744
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Blue Moon
Time your reservation to align with one of the Blue Moon’s popular shows. Check out the calendar of events beforehand and make an online reservation from there.
35 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-6515
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Shorebreak Lodge
Don’t let the name fool you. Check into Shorebreak not for a room at the inn but for a great meal. Serving gastropub cuisine and craft cocktails, Shorebreak offers seasonally inspired ocean- and farm-to-table fare in a laidback setting. Make a reservation online. Note that Shorebreak is open for dinner only, Wednesday through Sunday.
10 Wilmington Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-1007
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Eden
Just steps from the beach, Eden has atmosphere inside and out. Serving up bold American flavors and seafood classics, Eden is perfect for date nights, casual dinners with friends or family gatherings. Plus, you can’t go wrong with the award-winning wine list and martini bar. Online reservations are encouraged.
23 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-3330
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Houston White Co.
Reservations are encouraged at this Rehoboth establishment, and required for parties of six or more. This steakhouse with a twist serves up delicious cuisine from a rotating seasonal menu, so even if you dined here last summer, you’ll likely see something new to try. Seafood favorites like lobster tail and market fish accompany traditional steakhouse fare. Make your reservation online.
315 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-8511
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DiFebo’s
Craving Italian? This eatery has locations at both Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach and is perfect for a traditional Italian dinner. From antipasti options like bruschetta and fried calamari to hearty entrees, pastas and ravioli, each course is sure to satisfy. Plus, enjoy an extensive wine list and cocktail menu. Online reservations are accepted at both the Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach locations.
789 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach | 539-4550
12 North 1st Street, Rehoboth Beach
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The Cultured Pearl
The Cultured Pearl paved the original path for sushi at the beach, and it continually breaks new culinary ground. To reserve your table, just click the “Book Now” button on the website. We recommend booking the outdoor patio to dine in a stunning atmosphere complete with rooftop koi ponds.
301 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach | 227-8493
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Nantucket’s
Nantucket’s is a vacation must-visit for many regular vacationers to the southern beaches. Maybe it’s the quahog and scallop chowder that keeps ’em coming back. Make your reservation online to taste for yourself.
601 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island | 539-2607
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Related: 7 Trendy Coffee Shops to Visit at the Delaware Beaches
