A lot of people are surprised to hear that there are so many spectacular restaurants in Delaware. Whether you're craving seafood, a classic burger, or an Italian meal fit for a king (or queen), our small state has plenty of eateries to tempt your tastebuds. The following restaurants are a cut above the rest, both for their impeccable cuisine, gorgeous settings, and unmatched ambiance, and have earned diner ratings and accolades that just keep on stacking up. In no particular order, here are 12 of the best restaurants in Delaware:

1. Border Café, Newark

You might recognize this restaurant by the giant "EAT" sign displayed along the road. Border Café serves a scrumptious mix of Tex-Mex and Cajun food. Try a margarita while you're there!

2. Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, Rehoboth Beach

If high-quality grub near the beach is what you're seeking, look no further than Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats. Try a few of their beers that aren't available on tap anywhere else. And save room for their desserts, like bacon chocolate cheesecake!

3. Harry's Savoy Grill, Wilmington

"Delaware's Premier Steakhouse" isn't just known for its cuts of the finest beef. They also have a tower of seafood! The Harry's name has become an institution in Delaware and the Savoy Grill ranks especially high. There's a reason why Harry's is consistently named one of the top restaurants in Delaware.

4. Harpoon Hanna's Restaurant, Fenwick Island

One of the many fantastic things about Harpoon Hanna's is that in addition to some fantastic seafood and epic waterfront views, this local icon also offers a mean pastry. Coupled with great vibes, with live music, and you'll definitely want to check this place out if you're headed to the beach this summer.

5. Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, Wilmington and Newark

Don't be intimidated by the massive, industrial brick exterior of Iron Hill. This foodie haven is engulfed by lush grounds and views! A perennial favorite with multiple locations throughout Delaware. Whether you're looking for a unique burger, an interesting twist on classic bar food, or even upscale dining, Iron Hill Brewery has you covered. And don't forget to sample a beer from their own microbrewery!

6. Henlopen City Oyster House, Rehoboth Beach

If you're looking for "nice restaurants near me," look no further than this establishment in Rehoboth Beach. Henlopen City Oyster House is an iconic restaurant in Delaware that serves up a wide variety of oysters (as to be expected) plus a delicious menu that includes lobster mac and cheese, whole-crusted day-caught fish, tender crab cakes, and so much more.

7. Restaurant 55, Dover

Keep it casual at THE burger joint in Dover, where dozens of burger combos grace the menu. From the breakfast burger to the crab cake burger and everything in between, Restaurant 55 has it.

8. Off the Hook, Bethany Beach

Off The Hook is an elevated alternative to boardwalk food in Bethany Beach. There are only so many times you can have crab fries, right? Maybe? Their fried calamari is crispy but not greasy at all. It's so delicious you won't want to share with anyone else at the table!

9. Rice Fusion, Dover

Fresh seafood is easy to find in Delaware, but fantastic sushi restaurants are a little harder to come by! Rice serves a delicious mix of Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisines for both sushi lovers and novices.

10. Touch of Italy, Lewes and Rehoboth Beach

Mama mia! Stuff your face with meatballs or a bowl of ziti but be sure to leave room for dessert! Touch of Italy smells amazing and tastes even better.

11. Big Fish Grill, Rehoboth Beach & Wilmington

Just look for the "big fish"! Both of Big Fish Grill's locations in Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach local favorites. The fresh seafood and fun nautical décor makes this a great place to grab a bite with the whole family. Head to Wilmington for riverfront views and some of the best food in Delaware!

12. Agave Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar (Lewes)

There seems to always be a wait for this downtown Lewes restaurant, but it sure is worth it! Get there right before it opens so you're seated early before the lunch crowd arrives. Agave has to be one of the best places to eat in Delaware.

These might be some of the best restaurants in Delaware, but don't stop with just this list! The First State is chock full of delicious eats. How many of these restaurants have you tried? We would love to hear about your favorites in the comments. If you're looking for food options near you but don't want to leave the house, find something for delivery on GrubHub!

Next, walk off that delicious meal with a stroll through one of Delaware's prettiest overlooked state parks.