What Food To Eat In Delaware? Discover the iconic dishes and local flavors of Delaware with FOODS.EDU.VN’s comprehensive guide to the First State’s culinary scene. From unique sandwiches to fresh seafood, and tasty treats, explore the best of Delaware’s food culture. This guide also highlights scrapple variations, local craft beers, and regional specialties you don’t want to miss.
1. Discovering Delaware’s Culinary Gems: A Food Lover’s Guide
Delaware, though small, boasts a rich and diverse food scene influenced by its coastal location and agricultural heritage. From the iconic Bobbie sandwich to the sweet delight of summer peaches, here’s a guide to must-try foods in Delaware, appealing to food enthusiasts, home cooks, and culinary adventurers alike.
1.1. The Iconic Bobbie Sandwich
The Bobbie is a Thanksgiving-inspired submarine sandwich that was once exclusively available in Delaware at Capriotti’s. The sandwich features turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and mayonnaise. Capriotti’s, originally a Delaware-based chain, has expanded nationwide, bringing The Bobbie to a broader audience.
1.2. Chicken and Slippery Dumplings
Chicken and slippery dumplings, a comforting and hearty dish, is another Delaware staple. Slippery dumplings are flat, doughy noodles cooked in a rich chicken broth. This dish is especially popular during the cooler months.
1.3. Blue Claw Crabs: A Seafood Delight
Blue claw crabs are a significant part of Delaware’s coastal cuisine. These crabs are often steamed or prepared with various seasonings. Crab houses and seafood restaurants throughout Delaware offer a wide range of crab dishes.
Blue claw crabs prepared with traditional seasonings
1.4. Fries With Vinegar: A Unique Twist
Fries with vinegar is a simple yet distinctive Delaware snack. The tangy vinegar adds a refreshing twist to the classic fried potato, making it a beloved local treat.
1.5. Grotto Pizza: A Delaware Institution
Grotto Pizza is a well-known pizza chain in Delaware, famous for its unique sauce swirl and crispy crust. It’s a go-to spot for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Delaware’s pizza culture.
1.6. Summer Peaches: Fresh and Juicy
Delaware’s summer peaches are a seasonal highlight. The state’s climate is well-suited for growing peaches, resulting in sweet and juicy fruit. Local orchards and farmers markets offer a variety of peaches during the summer months.
Locally grown peaches from Delaware orchards
1.7. Fried Chicken: A Crispy Classic
Fried chicken is a beloved dish in Delaware, often prepared with a crispy, well-seasoned coating. Many local restaurants and eateries offer their unique versions of this classic comfort food.
1.8. Scrapple: A Pennsylvania Dutch Tradition
Scrapple, a Pennsylvania Dutch specialty, is a breakfast meat made from pork scraps, cornmeal, and spices. It is sliced and fried until crispy. Scrapple is often enjoyed with eggs or syrup.
1.9. Italian Water Ice: A Refreshing Treat
Italian water ice, a frozen dessert similar to sorbet, is a popular treat in Delaware, especially during the summer. It comes in various flavors and is a refreshing way to cool down.
Refreshing Italian Water Ice
1.10. Dogfish Head 90-Minute IPA: A Craft Beer Icon
Dogfish Head is a Delaware-based brewery known for its innovative and flavorful craft beers. The 90-Minute IPA is one of their most popular offerings, known for its strong hop aroma and smooth finish. Dogfish Head has significantly contributed to the craft beer scene in Delaware and beyond.
1.11. Ice Cream: A Sweet Indulgence
Ice cream is a classic dessert enjoyed throughout Delaware. Local ice cream shops offer a variety of flavors and styles, from traditional scoops to unique, handcrafted creations.
1.12. Tatanka Hot Sauce: Spice It Up
Tatanka Hot Sauce is a Delaware-made hot sauce known for its bold flavors and fiery kick. It’s a popular condiment for adding heat to various dishes, reflecting Delaware’s growing interest in artisanal food products.
1.13. Delaware-Style Hot Dog: A Local Favorite
The Delaware-style hot dog is split down the middle, griddle-fried, and topped with mustard, onions, and a tomato-y sauce. This regional variation offers a distinctive flavor profile.
1.14. Southern Delaware Roadside Chicken BBQs
Southern Delaware is known for its roadside chicken BBQs. These events offer choices of chicken, pulled pork, or beef, along with classic BBQ sides.
1.15. The Nic-o-Boli: A Calzone Cousin
The Nic-o-Boli, found at Nicola’s Pizza in Rehoboth, is a pizza dough stuffed with ground beef and other fillings, similar to a calzone.
2. Diving Deeper: Exploring Delaware’s Food Scene in Detail
Delaware’s food scene offers unique flavors and culinary experiences, reflecting its history, geography, and cultural influences. From the state’s seafood to its agricultural products, each aspect contributes to Delaware’s distinctive food identity. FOODS.EDU.VN presents a deep dive into what makes Delaware’s food culture special.
2.1. The Bobbie Sandwich: A Closer Look
The Bobbie sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Thanksgiving in every bite. It was invented by the founders of Capriotti’s, Lois and Alan Margolet, in 1976. The Bobbie is made with slow-roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, homemade stuffing, and a touch of mayonnaise on a soft roll.
Nutritional Information (approximate):
- Calories: 600-800
- Protein: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 70-90g
- Fat: 20-30g
Why it’s special: The Bobbie combines the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving into a convenient sandwich form. The balance of sweet cranberry sauce, savory turkey, and hearty stuffing creates a memorable culinary experience.
2.2. Chicken and Slippery Dumplings: A Comforting Classic
Chicken and slippery dumplings is a dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia. It’s a staple in many Delaware homes, especially during the colder months. The dish consists of tender chicken simmered in a flavorful broth with flat, doughy dumplings that have a “slippery” texture.
Recipe:
-
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
Instructions:
- Boil the chicken in a large pot with the chicken broth, onion, carrots, and celery.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool. Shred the chicken meat and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Add water and melted butter, and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough out thinly and cut into strips.
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil and drop the dough strips into the broth.
- Simmer until the dumplings are cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Variations: Some recipes include herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor. Others add vegetables like potatoes or peas.
2.3. Blue Claw Crabs: A Seafood Staple
Blue claw crabs are an integral part of Delaware’s coastal identity. These crabs are known for their sweet and delicate meat. They are typically steamed or boiled and seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, a classic seafood spice blend.
Nutritional Information (per 3 oz serving):
- Calories: 80-90
- Protein: 16-18g
- Fat: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
Health Benefits: Blue claw crabs are a good source of protein and essential minerals like zinc and copper.
How to Enjoy: Cracking and picking blue claw crabs is a social and interactive experience. Many crab houses provide mallets and knives for cracking the shells, and it’s common to spread the crabs out on a paper-covered table.
2.4. Fries With Vinegar: A Tangy Treat
Fries with vinegar might seem simple, but the combination of salty fries and tangy vinegar creates a unique flavor profile. This snack is popular at boardwalks and casual eateries throughout Delaware.
Why it works: The acidity of the vinegar cuts through the richness of the fries, creating a balanced and satisfying snack.
DIY Tip: Use high-quality malt vinegar for the best flavor.
2.5. Grotto Pizza: A Delaware Original
Grotto Pizza has been a Delaware institution since 1960. The pizza is known for its distinctive sauce swirl and slightly sweet flavor. The crust is thin and crispy, and the cheese is generously applied.
History: Dominick Pulieri founded Grotto Pizza after visiting Italy and wanting to bring authentic Italian pizza to Delaware.
Menu Highlights: In addition to their classic cheese pizza, Grotto Pizza offers a variety of specialty pizzas, including the “Grandma” pizza and the “Old World” pizza.
2.6. Summer Peaches: A Seasonal Delight
Delaware’s climate is ideal for growing peaches, resulting in sweet and juicy fruit that is available during the summer months. Local orchards and farmers markets offer a variety of peach varieties, including white peaches, yellow peaches, and nectarines.
Varieties: Some popular Delaware peach varieties include:
- Redhaven: A classic yellow peach with a slightly tart flavor.
- White Lady: A sweet and juicy white peach.
- Contender: A hardy variety that ripens later in the season.
Uses: Delaware peaches can be enjoyed fresh, baked into pies and cobblers, or used in jams and preserves.
2.7. Fried Chicken: A Crispy Indulgence
Fried chicken is a beloved dish in Delaware, often prepared with a crispy, well-seasoned coating. Many local restaurants and eateries offer their unique versions of this classic comfort food.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken:
- Brining: Brining the chicken before frying helps to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Double-Dredging: Double-dredging the chicken in flour creates a thicker, crispier coating.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is crucial for even cooking.
2.8. Scrapple: A Unique Breakfast Meat
Scrapple is a Pennsylvania Dutch specialty that has found a home in Delaware’s culinary landscape. It is made from pork scraps, cornmeal, and spices, formed into a loaf, and sliced and fried until crispy.
How it’s Made: Scrapple is traditionally made using leftover pork scraps from butchering. The scraps are combined with cornmeal, flour, and spices, then cooked in a broth until thick. The mixture is poured into a loaf pan and chilled until firm.
Serving Suggestions: Scrapple is typically served for breakfast with eggs, toast, and syrup or apple butter.
2.9. Italian Water Ice: A Refreshing Treat
Italian water ice is a frozen dessert similar to sorbet, made from water, sugar, and fruit flavoring. It is a popular treat in Delaware, especially during the hot summer months.
Flavors: Some popular Italian water ice flavors include lemon, cherry, watermelon, and mango.
History: Italian water ice is believed to have originated in Sicily and was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants.
2.10. Dogfish Head 90-Minute IPA: A Craft Beer Pioneer
Dogfish Head is a Delaware-based brewery known for its innovative and flavorful craft beers. The 90-Minute IPA is one of their most popular offerings, known for its strong hop aroma and smooth finish.
Brewing Process: The 90-Minute IPA is brewed using a unique continuous hopping method, where hops are added continuously throughout the brewing process. This results in a beer with a complex and balanced hop profile.
Awards and Recognition: Dogfish Head has received numerous awards and accolades for its beers, solidifying its place as a leader in the craft beer industry.
2.11. Ice Cream: A Sweet Indulgence
Ice cream is a classic dessert enjoyed throughout Delaware. Local ice cream shops offer a variety of flavors and styles, from traditional scoops to unique, handcrafted creations.
Local Favorites: Some popular Delaware ice cream shops include:
- Woodside Farm Creamery: Known for its homemade ice cream made with fresh, local ingredients.
- UDairy Creamery: Located at the University of Delaware, this creamery offers ice cream made with milk from the university’s dairy farm.
Trends: Some current ice cream trends include vegan ice cream, artisanal flavors, and ice cream sandwiches.
2.12. Tatanka Hot Sauce: Spice It Up
Tatanka Hot Sauce is a Delaware-made hot sauce known for its bold flavors and fiery kick. It’s a popular condiment for adding heat to various dishes.
Ingredients: Tatanka Hot Sauce is made with a blend of peppers, vinegar, and spices.
Heat Levels: Tatanka Hot Sauce is available in various heat levels, from mild to extra hot.
2.13. Delaware-Style Hot Dog: A Local Favorite
The Delaware-style hot dog is split down the middle, griddle-fried, and topped with mustard, onions, and a tomato-y sauce. This regional variation offers a distinctive flavor profile.
Preparation: The hot dog is typically split lengthwise and griddle-fried until slightly crispy. It is then topped with mustard, chopped onions, and a sweet and tangy tomato sauce.
Where to Find It: Delaware-style hot dogs can be found at various hot dog stands and casual eateries throughout the state.
2.14. Southern Delaware Roadside Chicken BBQs
Southern Delaware is known for its roadside chicken BBQs. These events offer choices of chicken, pulled pork, or beef, along with classic BBQ sides.
Community Tradition: These BBQs are often community events, with volunteers grilling the chicken and serving the food.
Sides: Classic BBQ sides include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and corn on the cob.
2.15. The Nic-o-Boli: A Calzone Cousin
The Nic-o-Boli, found at Nicola’s Pizza in Rehoboth, is a pizza dough stuffed with ground beef and other fillings, similar to a calzone.
Fillings: The Nic-o-Boli can be filled with ground beef, cheese, and other pizza toppings.
Preparation: The dough is rolled out and filled with the desired ingredients, then folded over and baked until golden brown.
3. Experiencing Delaware: A Culinary Journey Through the First State
Delaware’s culinary scene reflects its rich history, diverse culture, and geographical advantages. From farm-fresh produce to innovative culinary creations, Delaware offers a unique gastronomic experience. Join FOODS.EDU.VN on a culinary journey through Delaware, exploring its food festivals, farm-to-table restaurants, and hidden culinary gems.
3.1. Seasonal Delights: Eating with the Delaware Seasons
Delaware’s food scene is deeply connected to its seasonal produce. Each season brings unique ingredients and culinary opportunities.
Spring: Asparagus, strawberries, and peas are among the spring favorites. Farmers markets are full of fresh produce, and restaurants create dishes that highlight these seasonal ingredients.
Summer: Summer is peach season in Delaware. Tomatoes, corn, and blueberries are also abundant. Outdoor BBQs and seafood feasts are popular.
Fall: Apples, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes are the stars of the fall harvest. Many farms offer hayrides and pumpkin picking, making it a festive time for food lovers.
Winter: Hearty stews, soups, and comfort foods are popular in the winter. Root vegetables and winter greens are also in season.
3.2. Farm-to-Table Dining: Savoring Local Flavors
Delaware has a growing farm-to-table movement, with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farms. This ensures fresh, high-quality ingredients and supports the local economy.
Benefits: Farm-to-table dining offers numerous benefits, including fresher ingredients, reduced environmental impact, and support for local farmers.
Restaurants: Some notable farm-to-table restaurants in Delaware include:
- The Green Room (Hotel DuPont): Offers fine dining with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
- Eden Restaurant: A Rehoboth Beach restaurant known for its innovative dishes and commitment to local sourcing.
- Fork + Flask at Nage: A contemporary restaurant in Rehoboth Beach that emphasizes seasonal and sustainable cuisine.
3.3. Seafood Sensations: Coastal Cuisine at Its Finest
Delaware’s coastal location makes it a prime destination for seafood lovers. From blue claw crabs to fresh fish, there is a wide variety of seafood options available.
Popular Dishes:
- Crab Cakes: Made with sweet blue crab meat and served with a variety of sauces.
- Oysters: Fresh oysters are a delicacy in Delaware, often served raw or grilled.
- Rockfish: A local fish that is often grilled, baked, or pan-fried.
Seafood Restaurants: Some top seafood restaurants in Delaware include:
- Matt’s Fish Camp: Offers a casual seafood dining experience with multiple locations.
- Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats: Serves seafood dishes alongside its famous craft beers.
- Big Fish Grill: A popular spot for fresh seafood with a lively atmosphere.
3.4. Food Festivals: Celebrating Delaware’s Culinary Scene
Delaware hosts several food festivals throughout the year, celebrating its diverse culinary offerings.
Notable Festivals:
- The Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival: A chocolate lover’s paradise with samples, demonstrations, and contests.
- The Newark Food & Brew Fest: Features craft beers and food from local restaurants.
- The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival: Combines live jazz music with a variety of food vendors.
Benefits: Food festivals offer a great opportunity to sample a variety of local foods, meet chefs and producers, and experience the culinary culture of Delaware.
3.5. Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Eateries
Delaware has many hidden gem eateries that offer unique and authentic culinary experiences.
Examples:
- Mrs. Robino’s Italian Restaurant: A family-owned restaurant serving traditional Italian dishes since 1940.
- Bellefonte Brewing Company: A local brewery with a taproom that serves a variety of craft beers.
- Cantwell’s Tavern: A historic tavern in Odessa, Delaware, serving American cuisine in a charming setting.
Why They’re Special: These hidden gems offer a more intimate and authentic dining experience, often with a focus on local ingredients and traditional recipes.
4. Cooking at Home: Recreating Delaware’s Flavors in Your Kitchen
Bringing the taste of Delaware into your own kitchen can be a rewarding experience. With access to fresh, local ingredients and a bit of culinary inspiration, you can recreate some of Delaware’s iconic dishes. FOODS.EDU.VN provides tips, recipes, and resources to help you cook like a Delawarean.
4.1. Sourcing Local Ingredients: The Key to Authentic Flavors
Using local ingredients is essential for capturing the authentic flavors of Delaware. Farmers markets, local farms, and specialty food stores are great places to find fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Tips:
- Visit Farmers Markets: Farmers markets offer a wide variety of seasonal produce, meats, and cheeses.
- Support Local Farms: Buying directly from local farms helps to support the local economy and ensures the freshest ingredients.
- Check Specialty Food Stores: Specialty food stores often carry local products that are not available in larger supermarkets.
4.2. Must-Try Recipes: Bringing Delaware to Your Table
Here are a few must-try recipes that capture the flavors of Delaware:
- Crab Cakes:
- Ingredients: 1 lb blue crab meat, 1/2 cup bread crumbs, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 egg, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning, 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Form into patties. Pan-fry or bake until golden brown.
- Peach Cobbler:
- Ingredients: 6 cups sliced peaches, 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt.
- Instructions: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add milk and melted butter. Pour into a baking dish. Top with peaches. Bake until golden brown.
- Scrapple Breakfast Hash:
- Ingredients: 1 lb scrapple, sliced, 1 onion, chopped, 1 bell pepper, chopped, 2 potatoes, diced, salt and pepper to taste.
- Instructions: Fry scrapple until crispy. Add onion, bell pepper, and potatoes. Cook until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4.3. Ingredient Spotlight: Delaware’s Star Products
- Blue Crab: A Delaware staple, used in crab cakes, soups, and dips.
- Peaches: Sweet and juicy, perfect for pies, cobblers, and jams.
- Corn: A summer favorite, grilled, creamed, or used in salads.
- Tomatoes: A versatile ingredient, used in sauces, salads, and sandwiches.
- Apples: A fall favorite, used in pies, crisps, and ciders.
4.4. Cooking Techniques: Mastering Delaware’s Culinary Arts
- Steaming Crabs: A classic method for cooking blue crabs, preserving their sweet flavor.
- Grilling Chicken: A popular technique for cooking chicken, adding a smoky flavor.
- Baking Pies: A traditional method for making fruit pies, creating a warm and comforting dessert.
- Frying Scrapple: A technique for making scrapple crispy and delicious.
4.5. Serving Suggestions: Plating Your Delaware Creations
- Crab Cakes: Serve with tartar sauce or a lemon aioli.
- Peach Cobbler: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Scrapple Breakfast Hash: Serve with eggs, toast, and syrup or apple butter.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve with BBQ sauce and classic BBQ sides.
5. The Delaware Food Scene: Trends and Innovations
The food scene in Delaware is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging all the time. From plant-based cuisine to artisanal food products, Delaware is embracing new culinary ideas. FOODS.EDU.VN explores the latest trends and innovations in Delaware’s food scene, highlighting the chefs, producers, and entrepreneurs who are shaping its future.
5.1. Plant-Based Cuisine: A Growing Trend
Plant-based cuisine is gaining popularity in Delaware, with more restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian options. This trend reflects a growing interest in healthy and sustainable eating.
Restaurants: Some restaurants in Delaware that offer plant-based options include:
- Home Grown Cafe: A Newark restaurant with a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
- Green Box Kitchen: A Wilmington restaurant that specializes in healthy and sustainable cuisine.
- Drop Squad Kitchen: A Wilmington restaurant known for its vegan comfort food.
Ingredients: Plant-based dishes often feature ingredients like tofu, tempeh, seitan, and plant-based meats.
5.2. Artisanal Food Products: Celebrating Local Craftsmanship
Delaware has a growing artisanal food movement, with local producers creating unique and high-quality food products.
Examples:
- Local Cheeses: Delaware cheesemakers produce a variety of artisanal cheeses, from cheddar to goat cheese.
- Craft Beers: Delaware has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous local breweries.
- Small-Batch Sauces: Local producers create a variety of small-batch sauces, from hot sauce to BBQ sauce.
Why They’re Special: Artisanal food products are often made with local ingredients and traditional techniques, resulting in unique and flavorful products.
5.3. Sustainable Practices: Eating Responsibly
Sustainable practices are becoming increasingly important in Delaware’s food scene. Restaurants and producers are adopting practices that reduce their environmental impact.
Examples:
- Sourcing Local Ingredients: Sourcing ingredients from local farms reduces transportation costs and supports the local economy.
- Reducing Waste: Restaurants are implementing practices to reduce food waste, such as composting and recycling.
- Using Sustainable Packaging: Producers are using sustainable packaging materials to reduce their environmental impact.
Benefits: Sustainable practices help to protect the environment and ensure the long-term viability of Delaware’s food scene.
5.4. Culinary Collaborations: Chefs Working Together
Chefs in Delaware are increasingly collaborating on culinary projects, creating unique and innovative dining experiences.
Examples:
- Pop-Up Dinners: Chefs are hosting pop-up dinners in unique locations, showcasing their culinary skills.
- Collaborative Menus: Restaurants are creating collaborative menus, featuring dishes from multiple chefs.
- Food Festivals: Chefs are participating in food festivals, showcasing their creations to a wider audience.
Benefits: Culinary collaborations help to foster creativity, innovation, and community within Delaware’s food scene.
5.5. Food Education: Empowering Consumers
Food education is becoming increasingly important in Delaware, with organizations and individuals working to empower consumers with knowledge about food and nutrition.
Examples:
- Cooking Classes: Cooking classes teach people how to prepare healthy and delicious meals.
- Nutrition Workshops: Nutrition workshops provide information about healthy eating habits.
- Farm Tours: Farm tours allow people to learn about where their food comes from.
Benefits: Food education helps people make informed choices about their food and improve their health.
6. Visiting Delaware: Planning Your Culinary Adventure
Planning a culinary adventure to Delaware can be a rewarding experience, offering a chance to explore the state’s diverse food scene. FOODS.EDU.VN provides tips and resources to help you plan your trip, from finding the best restaurants to discovering local food events.
6.1. Must-Visit Restaurants: A Culinary Itinerary
Here’s a culinary itinerary of must-visit restaurants in Delaware:
- The Green Room (Hotel DuPont): For a fine dining experience with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
- Matt’s Fish Camp: For a casual seafood dining experience.
- Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats: For seafood dishes and craft beers.
- Grotto Pizza: For a taste of Delaware’s famous pizza.
- Mrs. Robino’s Italian Restaurant: For traditional Italian dishes in a family-owned setting.
6.2. Local Food Events: A Taste of Delaware Culture
Here are some local food events to consider when planning your trip:
- The Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival: For chocolate lovers.
- The Newark Food & Brew Fest: For craft beer and food from local restaurants.
- The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival: For live jazz music and food vendors.
- Farmers Markets: For fresh, local produce and artisanal food products.
6.3. Accommodation Options: Where to Stay
Delaware offers a variety of accommodation options, from hotels to bed and breakfasts.
- Hotel DuPont: A luxury hotel in Wilmington with a fine dining restaurant.
- The Bellmoor Inn & Spa: A Rehoboth Beach hotel with a spa and restaurant.
- Boardwalk Plaza Hotel: A Victorian-style hotel on the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk.
6.4. Transportation: Getting Around
Delaware is a small state, making it easy to get around by car. Public transportation options are also available.
- Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Delaware’s food scene.
- DART First State: Delaware’s public transportation system, offering bus and train service.
- Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Delaware.
6.5. Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Trip
- Plan Ahead: Make reservations at popular restaurants and book accommodations in advance.
- Check for Seasonal Events: Check the local events calendar for food festivals and other culinary events.
- Explore Beyond the Beaches: Don’t just stick to the beaches; explore Delaware’s cities and towns for hidden culinary gems.
- Try Local Specialties: Be sure to try Delaware’s local specialties, like blue claw crabs and peach pie.
- Support Local Businesses: Support local restaurants and producers by buying local ingredients and dining at local establishments.
7. Q&A: Your Delaware Food Queries Answered
Exploring a new food scene can bring up many questions. FOODS.EDU.VN is here to answer your queries about Delaware’s culinary landscape, providing you with all the information you need to enjoy its unique flavors.
7.1. What are the must-try dishes in Delaware?
Some must-try dishes in Delaware include The Bobbie sandwich, chicken and slippery dumplings, blue claw crabs, fries with vinegar, and Grotto Pizza.
7.2. Where can I find the best seafood in Delaware?
You can find excellent seafood at restaurants like Matt’s Fish Camp, Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, and Big Fish Grill.
7.3. What are some popular local breweries in Delaware?
Popular local breweries in Delaware include Dogfish Head, Bellefonte Brewing Company, and Iron Hill Brewery.
7.4. What are some popular food festivals in Delaware?
Popular food festivals in Delaware include The Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival, The Newark Food & Brew Fest, and The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival.
7.5. Where can I find local produce in Delaware?
You can find local produce at farmers markets and local farms throughout the state.
7.6. What is scrapple, and how is it typically served?
Scrapple is a Pennsylvania Dutch specialty made from pork scraps, cornmeal, and spices. It is typically served for breakfast, sliced and fried until crispy, with eggs, toast, and syrup or apple butter.
7.7. What is unique about Delaware-style hot dogs?
Delaware-style hot dogs are split down the middle, griddle-fried, and topped with mustard, onions, and a tomato-y sauce.
7.8. What are some good options for plant-based cuisine in Delaware?
Good options for plant-based cuisine in Delaware include Home Grown Cafe, Green Box Kitchen, and Drop Squad Kitchen.
7.9. How can I support local food producers in Delaware?
You can support local food producers by buying local ingredients, dining at local restaurants, and attending local food events.
7.10. What are some hidden gem eateries in Delaware that are worth checking out?
Some hidden gem eateries in Delaware include Mrs. Robino’s Italian Restaurant, Bellefonte Brewing Company, and Cantwell’s Tavern.
8. Conclusion: Embrace the Flavors of Delaware
Delaware’s food scene is a delightful mix of coastal cuisine, farm-fresh produce, and innovative culinary creations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover in the First State’s culinary landscape. From the iconic Bobbie sandwich to the sweet delight of summer peaches, Delaware offers a unique gastronomic experience that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ready to dive deeper into the world of Delaware cuisine? Visit FOODS.EDU.VN to discover even more recipes, restaurant reviews, and culinary insights. Explore detailed guides on local ingredients, sustainable practices, and the latest trends in the Delaware food scene. Expand your culinary knowledge and satisfy your curiosity with FOODS.EDU.VN.
FOODS.EDU.VN
Address: 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States
WhatsApp: +1 845-452-9600
Website: foods.edu.vn
