Delaware's restaurant scene is booming, with new bars, taverns, and restaurants opening every few weeks throughout the state. With so many new places popping up all over, we decided to take a look at some of the new restaurants in Delaware that you absolutely need to try. Each of these places opened this year, and all of their food has received high remarks from critics and on review sites like Yelp, UrbanSpoon, and Google Local. Check out one of these places for your next dinner out and find a new neighborhood favorite.
1. The Merchant Bar, Wilmington
The hottest Happy Hour in Wilmington is here at the Merchant Bar. The restaurant opened earlier this year in March, and it's been busy ever since. Stop in for great after-work drink specials and amazing food like their baked crab dip gratin or ancho-chile glazed shortrib. 426 N Market St
Wilmington, DE 19801
2. Chesapeake and Maine, Rehoboth Beach
Get a locally brewed beer flight or a seafood tower for the entire table at this new seafood restaurant in Rehoboth Beach. I know, seafood places at the beach are common, but C+M stands out for their incredible raw bar - and the best lobster roll you can get south of New England, for sure. This new restaurant in Delaware opened in March and has been loved by everyone in the neighborhood.316 Rehoboth Ave
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
3. Two Stones Pub, Hockessin
FINALLY, Two Stones Pub opened up a Hockessin location early in 2016. Everyone has been waiting for their next expansion, because they're one of the best pubs in New Castle County at their other locations in Wilmington and Newark. We've featured Two Stones for some of the best wings in the state, and their Hockessin location is just as amazing. 300 Lantana Dr Hockessin, DE 19707
4. Matt's Fish Camp, Lewes
This is the second Matt's Fish Camp location in the state, and it's absolutely one of the best new restaurants in Delaware. If you're looking for seafood that thinks outside the box (or trap?), you'll love Matt's Fish Camp. Pictured above is their Ipswich Clam appetizer, made with belly clam potato skin with boursin fondue, bacon and scallions - yum! They've got an amazing selection of freshly caught seafood, so you're guaranteed to love whatever you order. Their other location is in Bethany Beach, and it's just as perfect. 34401 Tenley Court, Lewes, DE 19958
5. Bellefonte Brewing Company, Wilmington
While it's technically not a restaurant, the newest microbrewery in Delaware certainly deserves a shoutout. Their creative brews and desire to help the brewing community by supplying grains and other brew necessities make Bellefonte a cut above the rest. Their craft beers are incredible, and unlike anything you've ever tasted before. If you keep an eye on their Facebook page, you can head over there when a local food truck is out front, so you've got a meal and a beer - and is there really anything else you need in life?3605 Old Capitol Trail C8, Wilmington, DE 19808
6. Nasi Malay Thai Sushi, Bear
This new restaurant in Bear is great for sushi lovers, or those who can't live without Thai food (me!). They opened in May and have been popular with nearby residents ever since for good reason. Fresh food, delicious sauces and combinations, and an incredible selection make Nasi a standout among Asian restaurants in the area.308 Fox Hunt Dr, Bear, DE 19701
7. Brick Works Brewing And Eats, Smyrna
The first brewpub in Kent County opened this year, and man is it a winner! Brick Works has incredible beer and great food - their macaroni and cheese is a true standout. They've got great burgers and sandwiches that pair well with their home-brewed ales, so you'll certainly leave Brick Works with a full stomach and a huge smile.230 S Dupont Blvd, Smyrna, DE 19977
8. Fin Alley, Fenwick Island
Please note, Fin Alley has permanently closed.
There's fin-alley a new great seafood place in Fenwick Island! This quaint spot opened this summer and locals have been coming here in droves for the fresh catch and incredible entrees. You can grab takeout, or eat on their deck with a view of the water. Their happy hour is one of the most talked about on the beach, so stop by and see what the fuss is all about - you'll be glad you did!300 Coastal Hwy, Fenwick Island, DE 19944
9. USS Delaware Restaurant, Milford
Don't overlook this place based on the modest exterior - the owners and chef at USS Delaware Restaurant have put so much energy and effort into their food, and you can really tell. Their burgers always hit the spot, and their prime rib is the best in the area for sure. Stop by for lunch or dinner Tuesday through Sunday.319 S. Rehoboth Blvd, Milford, DE 19963
10. Top Dog Grill, Bethany Beach
Please note, Top Dog Grill has permanently closed.
The newest taco and hotdog place in Bethany Beach might be the best one yet. Top Dog combines the best of beach food with a trendy atmosphere and unique hot dog creations. They make delicious street tacos, too, so if you're looking to feel like you're truly on vacation, Top Dog is a great place to go.115 Garfield Pkwy #2, Bethany Beach, DE
All of these new restaurants popping up makes the foodie in me super excited! I can't wait to try them all, and to discover new restaurants opening this fall, too. If you're still craving new places, check out our top hole in the wall restaurant list, where the restaurants may not be new, but they're probably new to you!
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