The cool thing about living in a state with so many small towns is discovering what these tiny towns have to offer! Sure, most people head to Dover, Wilmington or Rehoboth when they want a big night out, but you shouldn't skip these small town Delaware restaurants just because they're not in the middle of a busy, bustling city. How many of these have you tried?

1. Bethany Blues, Bethany Beach

Bethany Blues serves up some of the best BBQ in the state! I love the brisket and can't get enough of their collard greens.

6 N Pennsylvania Ave, Bethany Beach, DE 19930

2. Crabcake Factory, Selbyville

I'm sure some readers will comment about how Crabcake Factory is a Maryland establishment - and to those readers, I guess you've never wanted the BEST bloody mary when you've been in Fenwick, huh? Crabcake Factory, Bayside (in Selbyville) is a great place to grab a relaxing meal during the day or to hang out with friends at night.37314 Lighthouse Rd, Selbyville, DE 19975

3. Abbott's on Broad Creek

Abbott's on Broad Creek is one of my favorite restaurants in Delaware! The food is delicious and the outdoor deck is a great place to grab a meal in the summer. Plus, the little town of Laurel is completely surrounded by natural beauty.300 Delaware Ave, Laurel, DE 19956

4. Woody's, Dewey Beach

Woody's isn't quite as serene as the waterfront deck at Abbott's, but the crab cakes here are the best in the state (and better than most Maryland restaurants!) The cozy atmosphere is fun and light, and it's a great place to roll into after a day on the beach at Dewey.

1904 Coastal Highway 1, Dewey Beach, DE 19971

5. Blue Water Grill, Millsboro

Blue Water Grill is a little hidden gem on main street in Millsboro, where they serve up some delicious seafood. If you're looking for the best kept secret of small town Delaware restaurants, this is it.226 Main St, Millsboro, DE 19966

6. Cantwell's Tavern, Odessa

Cantwell's Tavern is one of the oldest restaurants in Delaware! It's been running, with various tenants, as a tavern for over 100 years. The food here is great, and you can't beat their Ahi Tuna small plate on $5 tapas night.109 Main St, Odessa, DE 19730

7. Westside Restaurant, Milford

Westside is one of the best diners in Delaware, and they serve up comfort food and homemade dessert that will remind you of home - if your home had a gourmet pastry chef. If you haven't been to this delightful spot, be sure to stop in this spring. 101 S Maple Ave

Milford, Delaware, DE 19963

8. Lewinsky's on Clinton, Delaware City

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

Does the name "Lewinsky's on Clinton" ever get old? Not to me. This Delaware City landmark serves up one of the best brunches in Delaware, and it's worth the hike if you're coming from elsewhere in the state. I can never seem to get enough of their bloody mary bar or their seasonal, creative french toast.92 Clinton St, Delaware City, DE 19706

9. The Backyard, Milton

The Backyard is one of the best small town restaurants in Delaware! From their desserts (made from scratch every day!) to their eggplant appetizer, to the unbelievable burgers that'll leave you full and happy - the Backyard has it all.
211 Broadkill Rd, Milton, DE 19968

10. Sambo's Tavern, Leipsic

Sambo's Tavern is the go-to for crabs if you're within an hour of Leipsic! There's a reason this tiny fishing town is the destination for people looking to get their crab fix. They'll steam them to order... no reheating here! Pick your size and pick how many you want - and then get to picking those crabs.283 Front St, Leipsic, DE 19901

11. JP's on the Wharf, Frederica

JP's is right on the water in the charming little town of Bowers Beach. Fresh seafood comes in right off the boats to the deck you're sitting on. Be sure to try their famous strawberry pie!201 Hubbard Ave, Frederica, DE 19946

There's so much to love about Delaware's small towns, even beyond the charming restaurants that call them home. Did you know there's an entire utopian small town right in New Castle County? It's called Arden, and it's straight out of a storybook. Check it out!