Delaware is known for its tiny restaurants – but also its tiny crowds. One great thing about the First State is that it’s generally easy to get a table at your favorite neighborhood spot at any time. This isn’t a guarantee, though, and some places in Delaware are harder to get in, either because they’re always packed, or because they keep unusual hours. That doesn’t mean you should skip them! In fact, these incredibly popular Delaware restaurants should be at the top of your list. Call ahead!
1. Reel Fresh
Please note, Reel Fresh has permanently closed.
Reel Fresh is a hidden gem in Dover, but more and more people are starting to catch on that they serve an amazing Sunday Brunch. Reservations recommended! Call (302) 698-1015 . Even if you happen to stumble upon this tiny restaurant when it's crowded, it's so worth the wait to indulge in their specials, like the above Island Red Snapper with shrimp and mango salsa! 1151 E Lebanon Rd, Dover, Delaware
2. Sambo's Tavern, Leipsic
Sambo's Tavern is a Delaware legend, and many, many people celebrate their 21st birthdays at this crabhouse right on the water. You need to be at least that old to even get in - and if you want a waterfront seat, you better make reservations. Combined with the fact that they're only open from April to October, and it's easy to see why this made our list of Delaware restaurants that are hard to get into, but totally worth it. Call (302) 674-9724 to confirm their hours and make a reservation. 283 Front St, Dover, DE 19901
3. Krazy Kat's
Krazy Kat’s is located at the Inn at Montchanin Village and Spa, which was formerly a private hamlet for, who else?, the DuPonts. It's located in the beautiful chateau country of New Castle County, and is attached to the most divine spa east of the Mason Dixon line. It does get crowded, and the dining room is intimate. I would highly recommend calling for reservations – (302) 888-4200 The address is 528 Montchanin Rd, Montchanin, DE 19710.
4. 33 West
Please note, 33 West has permanently closed.
33 West is the top spot to grab a burger on Loockerman Street in Dover - but it's not a well kept secret. With most hours of the day being fairly busy, it's easy to see how this popular Delaware restaurant fills up quickly at lunchtime and dinner time - particularly on the weekends. The food is so worth it - from my favorite nacho platter in Delaware to burgers that have landed 33 West on our
Best Burgers in Delaware list, this place will become one of your go-to dining spots. Call
(302) 735-9822 for a reservation.
33 W Loockerman St
Dover, DE 19904
5. Palate
This farm-to-table restaurant in Rehoboth Beach is one of the freshest you'll ever find. It's no surprise that Palate has become one of the most popular Delaware restaurants at the beach! Their Sunday Brunch is great, but I prefer to stop by for lunch. If you're heading down for brunch or dinner, I'd highly recommend making reservations. Call (302) 249-8489 before heading on down. 19266 Coastal Hwy, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
6. The Wilmington and Western Railroad - Yes, seriously!
If you didn't know about this locomotive that's also (kind of) a popular Delaware restaurant, then you've got some planning to do! Join the W&W Railroad on their historic tours of the Red Clay Creek area as they serve appetizers and dessert, and drop you off at one of Delaware's finest restaurants.
Learn more about how to get your ticket!
From the dining car, you'll arrive at either the Back Burner or Hunter's Den restaurants. These ride-to-dine trains might be the best restaurant experience in Delaware - but you must have a reservation!
Here's how you can book your incredible night out.
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