Delaware: A Food Lover's Paradise
As a teenager in Delaware, I'm always on the hunt for the next mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of our state. What I love about Delaware is its culinary diversity that mirrors its unique geographic location and rich history. Between the Delaware Valley's farmland traditions and the coastal influences of the Atlantic, Delaware cuisine offers a savory mix of land and sea that tickles the taste buds of locals and visitors alike.
I remember the first time I tasted Delaware Slippery Dumplings at a local county fair. It was a delicious surprise that's stuck with me. The dumplings, thicker than your usual variety, absorbed the rich chicken broth, making every bite a delightful experience. Then there's scrapple - an innovative dish born out of a waste-not-want-not ethic. Nothing says good morning like a slice of scrapple, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, paired with a sunny-side-up egg and a view of the morning Delaware sun.
A tour of Delaware's culinary scene is incomplete without a mention of the state's acclaimed restaurants. For instance, the highly reputed "The House of William and Merry" in Hockessin. Known for their locally-sourced seasonal menu, they redefine the concept of fine dining with every dish. I'll never forget the asparagus soup I had there last spring, its fresh and delicate flavors still linger in my memory.
In contrast, nestled in Wilmington is "Mrs. Robino's" - an Italian haven that feels like a home away from home. Growing up, it was our family's go-to place for any special occasion. The hearty lasagna there, packed with cheese and authentic Italian flavors, always takes me back to my tenth birthday celebration.
Then there's the "Blue Crab Grill" in Newark, a seafood lover's paradise that truly showcases Delaware's coastal influences. I still recall the time when my father and I, both seafood enthusiasts, embarked on a culinary adventure to this local gem. The blue crabs, freshly caught and cooked to perfection, brought a piece of the Atlantic right to our table.
Delaware's food scene is like an open cookbook, where each restaurant, each dish tells a story. It's an endless journey of gastronomic exploration, where you can dig into the heart of a dumpling, slice through the narrative of scrapple, or crack open the tale of a blue crab. So come, take a bite, and explore the culinary wonder that is Delaware.
Click on each restaurant's icon below to visit their website !
Kings & Queens Liberian Cuisine, located in Newark, Delaware, is renowned for providing a unique, authentic culinary experience that immerses its patrons in the traditional flavors of Liberia.
Le Mandingue African Restaurant is a popular dining spot located in Wilmington, Delaware. It specializes in traditional West African cuisine, which caters to a wide range of tastes.
Bluecoast Seafood Grill and Raw Bar - A popular restaurant in Rehoboth Beach, known for its fresh seafood dishes and casual beach house ambiance.
Cultured Pearl - A sushi and seafood restaurant in Rehoboth Beach that offers a rooftop view along with its varied menu.
La Fia - An intimate bistro located in Wilmington, La Fia is popular for its eclectic mix of American and European dishes.
Heirloom - This Lewes-based restaurant is known for its modern American food served in a charming, vintage setting.
Mrs. Robino's, Wilmington
The House of William and Merry, Hockessin
Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats Rehoboth Beach
Interesting facts about the cuisine and restaurants in Delaware
1. Delaware's cuisine is greatly influenced by its proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. Seafood, particularly blue crabs and clams, are key components of many local dishes.
2. The state is renowned for its chicken industry, and the iconic chicken and dumplings dish is a staple in many Delaware households and restaurants.
3. Delaware is also known for scrapple, a loaf made of pork scraps and cornmeal, which is often served as a breakfast food. This dish is a prime example of Delaware's culinary heritage, reflecting its Dutch and German influences.
4. Delaware's restaurant scene is diverse, featuring everything from upscale dining establishments to food trucks. You'll find a wide range of cuisines, including American, Italian, Mexican, Asian, and African, among others.
5. There is a robust farm-to-table movement in Delaware, with many restaurants prioritizing locally sourced and seasonal ingredients in their dishes.
6. Several restaurants in Delaware have gained national recognition. For instance, The House of William & Merry in Hockessin was named as one of the 100 best restaurants in America by OpenTable.
7. Delaware's culinary scene also extends beyond just food. The state is home to several acclaimed breweries and wineries. Dogfish Head Brewery, for example, has gained a national reputation for its craft beers.
8. Rehoboth Beach, in particular, is known for its vibrant restaurant scene. With an array of eateries along the boardwalk and throughout the town, it's often referred to as the "Culinary Coast."
9. Delaware hosts several food and drink festivals throughout the year that celebrate the state's culinary scene. These include the Delaware State Fair, the Apple-Scrapple Festival, and the Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival.
10. Despite its small size, Delaware's culinary landscape reflects its cultural diversity. Whether it's a Liberian restaurant in Newark or a Mexican taqueria in Wilmington, the state's food scene offers a taste of the world.