The Historic New Castle neighborhood holds a lot of First State history... rightfully so, as this neighborhood was where William Penn first stepped into the “New World.” It’s also home to the New Castle Court House Museum one of the oldest surviving courthouses in the United States. On the outskirts of the main square lives the Read House and Gardens, a twenty-two-room Federal mansion built by George Read II. The area is full of history and has recently taken on renovations bringing history to meet the present with three new eateries joining local favorites Jessop’s Tavern and Nora Lee’s French Quarter Bistro.
1. The Booth House Tavern
The Booth House Tavern and its adjoining coffee shop, the David Finney Café opened in June of this year at the corner of Third and Delaware Streets. The Tavern offers a full menu and “a modern twist on the colonial-tavern lifestyle.” www.boothhousetavern.com
2. Zollie’s Jazz Cucina
Zollie's Jazz Cucina opened its doors in mid-October. Located at 414 Delaware Street, Zollie's fusion kitchen presents “a menagerie of flavors from the Americas and the Caribbean” with a background of soft jazz. www.zolliesjazzcucina.com
3. The Mercury Café and Tea House
The Mercury Café and Tea House at 206 Delaware St. has been described as a place to “relax with friends while enjoying a beverage and a small bite.” It has hosted two very popular “soft openings” and will open full-time on December 11th. www.themercurynewcastle.com
Hours and menus are evolving for all locations, so be sure to check their websites!