I've said it before and I'll say it again - Delaware is an underrated state for foodies. Some of the coolest restaurants in the region are in Delaware, and they're often overlooked by the Philly crowd. To be honest, that's okay, because it means we've got a table at nearly any of these restaurants on any night that we so choose. We've chosen these restaurants to feature on our Delaware restaurant bucket list because they are just that good, and you really need to make it a point to go to each of these restaurants at least once in your life. Which one is your favorite?

1. Sambo's Tavern, Leipsic

Legendary Sambo's gets to hold the #1 spot on our (unordered) list because it really stands out to me. Fresh caught crabs, the most incredible crabcakes, and being right on the water make this the true Delaware restaurant experience. Sambo's has been owned by the same family for over 50 years, and they've got multiple "Best Of" awards under their belt - best crabcake, best crab house, best pub - just to name a few. You won't be able to get in if you're underage, though, so keep that in mind if you want to bring friends or family here.283 Front St

Leipsic, DE 19901

2. DiFebo's Restaurant, Bethany Beach

DiFebo's in Bethany Beach is possibly the best Italian restaurant in Delaware - and it rivals some of the world famous Philadelphia italian places, too. Their signature dish is the most incredible veal chop that you'll ever try.789 Garfield Pkwy

Bethany Beach, DE 19930

3. Jessop's Tavern, New Castle

Travel back in time to Jessop's! This restaurant is in one of the oldest buildings in New Castle, and the experience here will make you feel like you've stepped back into Colonial Delaware. Authentic food and staff dedicated to the colonial experience really make Jessop's a once-in-a-lifetime restaurant. 114 Delaware Street, New Castle DE 19720

4. The Green Room, Wilmington

Please note, The Green Room has permanently closed.

The Green Room is the most majestic restaurant in Delaware. It is one of the top rated restaurants in the entire region, and for good reason! Their food is incredible - 110% perfect, every single time. They pay attention to the little details, and their desserts are famous! When you go, you need to try their macaroons, too. You can read our feature piece on this amazing restaurant to learn what makes this a truly unforgettable dining experience in Delaware.

5. Lewinsky's On Clinton, Delaware City

Please note, Lewinsky's On Clinton has permanently closed.

This cheekily-named local favorite is a place you need to visit next time you're in Delaware City. The decor is hilarious - particularly in the bathrooms. The food is out of this world, too - whether you're there for a great dinner or hitting up their amazing Sunday brunch, which was named one of our Best Brunches in Delaware.

92 Clinton St

Delaware City, DE 19706

6. Deerfield, Newark

Deerfield needs to be on your restaurant bucket list for their brunch - seriously. It's been named the best brunch in Delaware for years, and they've got over a hundred feet of buffet spread offered. From perfect pastries to incredible omelettes, you won't find a better brunch in the First State - or in any state, we think.507 Thompson Station Rd, Newark, DE 19711

7. Caffe Gelato, Newark

Caffe Gelato is probably best known locally as the place that UD College Students aim for when parents come to visit. This tiny restaurant on Main Street in Newark doesn't look like much from the outside, but once you go there, you're going to want to return again and again. Their fresh pasta dishes, incredible salads, and delicious chicken entrees are some of the best in the state. Appropriately, this Italian restaurant in Delaware also serves homemade gelato on the street side, so at the very least, you need to try that!90 E Main St Newark, DE 19711

8. Frederica Pizza and Pasta House, Frederica

Frederica Pizza and Pasta is an oasis of incredible food is an otherwise rural area of Delaware. Possibly the best pizza you can get in Delaware is in this little shop, and that's absolutely what they are known for. Stop in and try a slice for sure, but don't discount their other dishes. They make incredible pasta and other delicious Italian entrees, just like your grandma used to make.1491 Frederica Rd

Frederica, DE 19946

9. The Charcoal Pit, Wilmington

This classic burger-and-milkshake joint has been a Wilmington landmark for over 50 years. It's still crowded every single day and the service is still exactly what you'd expect from a old fashioned burger joint. If you have any reservations about visiting the Charcoal Pit, put them aside and grab a handful of napkins, because you're going to need them when you bite into a greasy, heavenly burger. Their other sandwiches deserve a mention, too, because I don't think I've had a better BLT anywhere in Delaware.
2600 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803

10. The Backyard, Milton

The Backyard is a great place to get breakfast, lunch or dinner in Milton. Not only is their food incredible, but the atmosphere makes for a unique restaurant experience that you won't soon forget. Sit out in the Backyard under the beautiful lights while you eat, and then play some yard games with friends or strangers after your meal. This unforgettable restaurant in Delaware needs to be at the top of your list.211 Broadkill Rd, Milton, DE 19968

11. Woody's, Dewey Beach

Woody's is another top contender for best crabcake in the state, and that alone is a reason to visit. The atmosphere here is beachy and busy, which fits the location perfectly. If you're on a quest for the best seafood in Delaware, then Woody's needs to be one of the stops on your list. 1904 Coastal Highway

Dewey Beach, DE 19971

12. Salt Air, Rehoboth Beach

Salt Air offers locally sourced farm-to-table dining in a town that's dominated by greasy boardwalk food, so it really stands out. Their menu changes almost daily, so you can be sure that every time you go, you're in for a new and delicious experience. They've got a great bar, too, where you can try craft brews and creative cocktails that pair nicely with your fresher-than-fresh meal.50 Wilmington Ave. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

If you're still hungry and you've made it through all of these restaurants, then you might want to attempt our 3 Day Restaurant Road Trip - where you'll see all corners of the state and taste delicious Delaware cuisine for an unforgettable long weekend.