Delaware is full of history and it is home to many historic, timeless restaurants. Whether your taste is fancy and you want to treat yourself to a meal at the Hotel DuPont’s Green Room, or you want to pretend you’re a time traveler at Jessop’s Tavern, there’s always a spot to enjoy Delaware’s history and cuisine in the First State. One restaurant that’s often overlooked is the beautiful and historic Cantwell’s Tavern. If you’ve never been, you need to pay them a visit!

Cantwell's Tavern is a historic restaurant located in Odessa, Delaware.
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
Prior to being called Odessa, the busy town was known as Cantwell's Bridge. The original Cantwell’s Bridge Hotel and Tavern was built in 1822 by William Polk. The Tavern was built in an elegant, sophisticated style that was not typical of a small town.
You can find the accomodating tavern in Odessa's historic district, and they're open late, unlike many of the local establishments.
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
The Tavern's address is 109 Main St, Odessa, Delaware and their hours are below:

Monday: 11:30AM - 9:00PM | Tuesday through Thursday: 11:30AM - 10:00PM | Friday & Saturday: 11:30AM - 11:00PM | Sunday: 10:00AM - 9:00PM
The decor in Cantwell's Tavern will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
The history of the building as an Inn is apparently by the layout. It's incredible to walk through and think of the nearly two hundred years of history that this building has witnessed! I love how the restaurateurs kept the classic style while adding a modern flair to the timeless walls.
The Tavern keeps its guests happy and draws many from out of town with their amazing food.
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
The best day to visit is Tuesday, for Oyster Day! They feature special oysters, including $5 shooters, $1.25 raw oysters, and even brick oven baked oysters. Which ones are your favorite?

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They run other specials, too, like their $6 Tapas on Wednesday.
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
The Tapas menu varies based on the week, but it's always full of delicious small plates to choose from. Wednesdays are a great day to visit Cantwell's Tavern with a big group, so you can sample a little bit of everything.
The best part about the tavern is that nearly everything is locally sourced.
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
They take their farm to table style very seriously, and nearly every ingredient is from local farmers and vendors. Their craft beer menu is impressive, and their bartenders are among the most talented in the state! No matter what you're craving, you'll find something to love at this historic, rustic tavern.
Who can say no to seasonal desserts?
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
You'll feel less guilty about ordering a personal cheesecake topped with fresh fruit when you realize that you're supporting local Delaware farmers and vendors. At least, that's what I tell myself!
In the Spring and Summer, their outdoor patio is the place to be.
Facebook / Cantwell Tavern
Join them for happy hour on a warm day and enjoy oyster and beer specials. They also frequently have live music out on the patio, which turns a normal date night into an amazing experience. If you've never been to Cantwell's Tavern, you're missing out on one of Delaware's most classic restaurants.

So, order up, and get yourself lost in Delaware’s colonial history as you enjoy some of the First State’s finest food.

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