The winter season is a time to unwind, take a break and reconnect with loved ones. How about booking a romantic evening for two at one of the many amazing restaurants found right here in Wilmington, Delaware? Here are five dining hot spots that provide a sure-fire way to spice up your winter months.
1. Harry's Savoy Grill & Ballroom
For a classy and casual dining experience, look to Harry’s, located in North Wilmington, minutes from the Pennsylvania state line. From prime rib and fresh seafood entrées to creamy crème brulee for dessert, this award-winning restaurant will surely impress for a grand night out.
Pro Tip: If you are looking for a romantic night with a less formal atmosphere, grab a quiet booth in the bar room where the drinks are top-shelf, and the full menu is always available.
2. Bardea Food and Drink
Bardea Food and Drink, conceptualized by co-owners Scott Stein and Antimo DiMeo, has become a fan favorite stop while in Wilmington and now so has its counterpart Bardea Steak. The Italian Bardea Food and Drink captures the energy of the city. Bardea Steak entered the scene in 2022 as a classic steakhouse with an incredible flare for presentation and some of the best cuts of meat around. These downtown Wilmington restaurants have both received a lot of love from food authorities and the travel media. Bardea Food and Drink was named 2019 James Beard Award semifinalist for “Best New Restaurant” and has continued to make a name for itself since. Bardea Steak was voted as one of America’s most anticipated openings of 2022 by Vogue Magazine.
Pro Tip: Bardea Garden is another incredible Bardea Restaurant Group creation. Located in between Bardea Food & Drink and Bardea Steak, The Garden is Wilmington's latest outdoor dining experience.
3. House of William & Merry
One of the most interesting dining experiences in Greater Wilmington is The House of William & Merry. This Hockessin-based restaurant is housed inside a farmhouse originally built in 1922. Dinner here feels like you are heading over to a friend’s home, except the food is exquisite and you don’t have to help clean up when you’re done.
Pro tip: The best way to order at The House of William and Merry is to simply ask Chef William what he recommends on that day as his menu is ever-changing, and the recipes are prepared from the freshest seasonal ingredients procured from local farms.
4. The Quoin Restaurant
New to downtown Wilmington this year is The Quoin (pronounced “coin”). The restaurant located inside this new boutique hotel is called by the same name. Bringing the borders of Southern France and Northern Italy together with a modern wood-fired fare, the menu puts a contemporary spin on Riviera to Rivera style. Not only will you dine with 5-star service, but you can also grab a drink before and after your delicious meal on top of the world... well, city. The rooftop bar inside the hotel is a first for Wilmington. With four-season access, there’s no stopping the gorgeous views of Wilmington’s historic district from shining all year.
Pro Tip: The night doesn’t have to end there... be sure to check out the hotel’s speakeasy-style cocktail lounge, Simmer Down!
5. Jessop's Tavern
Our last romantic dining experience for the winter season is Jessop’s Tavern in Historic New Castle. This spot has special appeal if you and your S.O. are beer afficionados. Jessop’s has been a staple here since 1996, but its building dates to 1674. The menu at Jessop’s has a distinctly American comfort food flare, with its roots in English, Dutch, Belgian, and Swedish. It is Colonial authenticity at its finest, with house made sauces, dressings and breads. A warm welcome and a colonial experience await.
Pro Tip: Jessop’s features 18 beers on draft and holds the largest collection of Belgian Beers in Delaware (over 200 choices!)
Bonus! (Did you really think we would only name five?)
Inside the award-winning HOTEL DU PONT lies Le Cavalier at the Green Room, a reimagination of the HOTEL's original and iconic Green Room. With its French inspiration, craft cocktail list and relaxed, elegant atmosphere, a date night at "Le Cav" (as the locals call it) is calling your name. It’s even rumored that Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly enjoyed a quiet meal at Le Cavalier (then The Green Room) after getting engaged.
Pro Tip: We suggest booking your stay at the HOTEL and head to Le Cavalier again in the morning for brunch!
Whatever your preference, Wilmington, Delaware’s culinary experiences are not to be missed. To make the night last, turn your date night into a weekend getaway to Greater Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley and explore the wonder of a city close to home, yet worlds away.
