Only one restaurant in Delaware has consistently received some of the highest honors from the restaurant industry, with awards putting it among the finest dining in the U.S. The Green Room, located in Wilmington's historic Hotel DuPont, won its first AAA Four-Diamond Restaurant Rating back in 1985, and until 2014, was the only restaurant in the state to do so. In addition, it is one of Forbes 4-star rated restaurants, and has lists and lists of "best of" accolades.

It's not just the food that makes the restaurant unique and unforgettable, it's the setting and the service that put it to the top.

The dining room

Ironically the room itself is not green, but draped in heavy, lush red and gold fabrics, accented with deep wood tones and gold highlights. The name, Green Room, is in reference to theater terms in which the 'green room' is the waiting room for actors, performers and VIPs.

The food

Here's just a sample of a recent menu. Menu selections change often, highlighting seasons and special occasions and observances.

Let's face it. The restaurant can be as beautiful as possible, but if the food doesn't match the ambiance it will set off the entire experience. This is what the Green Room gets precisely right with food and decor that complement and accentuate one another. Lobster or crab with your filet? Yes!

If you order a Caesar salad, it will be prepared table-side for you.

If you're going to go all out for an exquisite dining experience, ask the sommelier to pair your meal with a fine wine.

The desserts

Oh wow. The desserts. The signature dessert is an Amaretto White Chocolate

Raspberry Napoleon, and it's worth every calorie.

Be sure to sample the hotel's famous macaroons. They don't look flashy or fancy, but they will melt in your mouth.

The hotel

The Green Room is located on the ground floor of the historic Hotel DuPont. Built in 1913, the hotel quickly became known for the opulence it offered, in grand DuPont style. Five years after the opening, the hotel was expanded, adding a ballroom and theater, among other amenities.

Printed sometime between 1930 and 1945, this postcard shows the DuPont Building overlooking Wilmington's Rodney Square. The scene today looks almost identical, with the exception of the cars and transportation related infrastructure. The building takes up an entire block in downtown Wilmington, housing the hotel, restaurant, theater, and office spaces for the parent company.

Restaurants patrons typically enter through the hotel lobby, which reflects all the elegance that continues on into the dining room. While parking is located across the street, visitors can pull up under the portico outside and take advantage of the full service valet.

If there is one place in Delaware to go to be culinarily spoiled, this is it.  And, best yet, during Wilmington's annual Restaurant Week, usually in early April, you can enjoy the grandeur at an affordable price for lunch or dinner.

If you've been here before, let us know how your experience was!