The 15 Best Restaurants In Wilmington That Define Delaware Dining

Wilmington’s food scene offers something special for everyone, from waterfront dining to cozy neighborhood spots that feel like home. This city blends creative chefs, fresh ingredients, and welcoming atmospheres into unforgettable meals.

Whether craving seafood, steak, or inventive small plates, these restaurants showcase what makes Delaware dining truly exceptional.

1. Bardea Food & Drink

Contemporary Italian cuisine meets Delaware hospitality at this downtown hotspot where handmade pasta steals the show. Chef Antimo DiMeo crafts dishes that honor tradition while adding creative twists, making every visit feel both familiar and exciting.

The open kitchen lets diners watch culinary magic happen in real time. Seasonal ingredients shine in every plate, from wood-fired appetizers to delicate desserts that end meals on a sweet note.

2. Bardea Steak

Premium cuts take center stage at this sophisticated steakhouse that elevates classic American dining. From dry-aged ribeyes to perfectly seared filets, the beef quality speaks for itself without needing fancy descriptions.

Beyond steak, the menu offers fresh seafood and creative sides that complement the main attractions beautifully. The sleek, modern space feels special without being stuffy, making celebrations or business dinners equally comfortable.

3. Banks’ Seafood Kitchen And Raw Bar

Fresh catches and coastal vibes define this seafood haven where the raw bar glistens with oysters, clams, and shrimp. The menu changes based on what boats bring in, ensuring peak freshness with every order.

Nautical touches throughout the space remind diners of the ocean’s bounty without feeling themed or overdone. Whether ordering classic fish and chips or adventurous ceviches, the kitchen respects seafood’s natural flavors.

4. Trolley Square Oyster House

Neighborhood charm meets serious seafood at this Trolley Square staple where locals gather for happy hour and weekend brunches. The oyster selection rotates regularly, offering tastes from different coastal regions alongside Delaware favorites.

Comfortable booths and a friendly bar create the kind of place where strangers become regulars quickly. Beyond oysters, the menu features crab cakes, fish tacos, and other coastal classics done right.

5. Scalessa’s

Generations of families have gathered here for hearty Italian-American comfort food that never goes out of style. Red sauce, generous portions, and recipes passed down through years create meals that feel like Sunday dinner at nonna’s house.

The warm, unpretentious atmosphere welcomes everyone from first dates to anniversary celebrations. Classic dishes like chicken parmigiana and homemade ravioli deliver exactly what diners hope for without surprises.

6. Eclipse Bistro

French technique meets local ingredients at this elegant bistro where every detail receives careful attention. The chef’s background shines through in dishes that balance richness with brightness, creating memorable flavor combinations.

Candlelit tables and an impressive wine list set the stage for special occasions worth celebrating. The menu offers familiar French classics alongside seasonal specials that showcase culinary creativity and skill.

7. Columbus Inn

History and hospitality blend seamlessly in this beautifully restored building where fine dining feels approachable rather than intimidating. The menu features American classics prepared with modern techniques and seasonal ingredients that highlight Delaware’s agricultural bounty.

Multiple dining rooms offer different atmospheres, from intimate corners to larger spaces perfect for groups. Attentive service and thoughtful wine pairings elevate meals into experiences worth remembering.

8. Big Fish Grill On The Riverfront

Riverfront views and fresh seafood create the perfect combination for relaxed dining with scenic backdrops. The expansive patio becomes prime real estate during warm months, offering outdoor seating with water views and gentle breezes.

The menu covers seafood favorites from grilled fish to lobster rolls, all prepared simply to let quality ingredients shine. Families, couples, and groups all find comfortable spaces in this welcoming waterfront destination.

9. The Copper Dram

Craft cocktails and creative American cuisine share equal billing at this stylish spot where the bar program deserves as much attention as the kitchen. Mixologists craft inventive drinks using house-made syrups and fresh herbs.

The food menu offers shareable plates and entrees that pair beautifully with signature cocktails. Copper accents throughout the space add warmth to the modern design, creating ambiance perfect for evening gatherings.

10. Snuff Mill

A converted mill building provides unique character that modern restaurants simply cannot replicate, with exposed beams and historical details creating instant atmosphere. The kitchen focuses on elevated American cuisine using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Seasonal menus keep regulars returning to discover new dishes and flavor combinations. The space works equally well for romantic dinners and gatherings with friends seeking memorable meals.

11. La Fête

Refined French cuisine meets Delaware charm at this intimate restaurant where reservations book quickly for good reason. The chef’s attention to detail shows in every course, from amuse-bouche to petit fours that conclude exceptional meals.

Limited seating ensures personalized service and a dining pace that encourages savoring rather than rushing. Special occasion dinners find their perfect setting in this elegant, carefully curated space.

12. Farmer & The Cow

Local farms and dairies supply the ingredients that make this restaurant’s name more than just clever branding. The commitment to sourcing nearby shows in the freshness and flavor of vegetables, meats, and dairy products featured throughout the menu.

Rustic touches and modern comfort blend in a space that feels both casual and special. Seasonal changes keep the menu interesting while maintaining favorites that regulars request year-round.

13. La Fia

Global flavors come together in this charming spot where small plates encourage sharing and exploration. The menu changes with the seasons, reflecting what local farms harvest and what inspires the creative kitchen team.

Exposed brick and soft lighting create an intimate vibe perfect for date nights or catching up with friends. Each dish tells a story, blending techniques from around the world with Delaware’s freshest ingredients.

14. Dorcea

Innovation drives the kitchen at this contemporary restaurant where traditional boundaries between cuisines blur in exciting ways. The chef’s creative approach results in unexpected flavor pairings that somehow make perfect sense on the plate.

Modern design elements create a sleek backdrop without feeling cold or unwelcoming. Adventurous eaters appreciate the menu’s willingness to take risks while still delivering satisfying, delicious meals worth the investment.

15. The Quoin Restaurant

Hotel restaurants sometimes get overlooked, but this sophisticated dining room proves that assumption wrong with consistently excellent food and service. The menu balances comfort and creativity, offering dishes that satisfy both adventurous palates and those seeking familiar favorites.

Polished service and an extensive wine list complement the culinary offerings perfectly. The elegant atmosphere works beautifully for business dinners or celebrating milestones with loved ones.