Best Restaurants in Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley
Come hungry to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, where every bite reflects the area’s rich heritage and inventive spirit. Generations-old taverns share the spotlight with buzzy, new restaurants, and local harvests inspire everything from cider-spiced treats to chef-driven tasting menus. With options ranging from cozy cafés to white-tablecloth dining rooms, it’s a scene that feels both familiar and full of discovery.
Popular Cuisines & Dining Experiences
From authentic Italian trattorias and lively Mexican kitchens to brunch favorites and classic steakhouses, this destination serves up a dining mix as diverse as its visitors. Weekend brunch in Wilmington never sounded so good, thanks to spots such as the gastropub Market Kitchen & Bar in Newark, serving up locally sourced products and fresh ingredients from area farms.
Inside the renowned HOTEL DU PONT in downtown Wilmington, Le Cavalier offers a refined take on French-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting. Located on Market Street, Roost is another tasty option, featuring seasonal comfort food with a modern twist alongside craft beers, wines, and cocktails. Housed in a 1724 building in Historic New Castle, Jessop’s Tavern serves hearty American, English, and Swedish fare alongside Delaware’s largest Belgian beer selection. Its colonial charm and cozy pub feel make it a favorite for everything from casual pints to their iconic Shepherd’s Pie.
You’ll also find plenty of eateries that have earned their place among the locals’ top picks, like Kid Shelleen’s in Trolley Square, a longtime neighborhood favorite known for its relaxed atmosphere, open grill, and award-winning burgers and brunch, as well as Latin Fusion Mexican food at Santa Fe (locations in Wilmington and Newark), offering unbeatable vibes and flavors.
Looking to kick things up a notch? Check out one of the many steakhouses serving up juicy goodness. At Bardea Steak, a boutique concept from the James Beard–recognized Bardea Restaurant Group, expect uncommon cuts, wood-fired flavor, and a menu that pushes the boundaries of the traditional steakhouse. Just be sure to book a reservation in advance. Hungry for more? Keep scrolling to discover even more flavors of Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley below.
