I imagine that long ago, before humans evolved enough to invent stiff cocktails and heated car seats, we had to get through winter with the comforts we could find: In the shelter of drafty caves, we stirred our wildebeest stew and dined together by a crackling fire. We still feel that urge for warm, friend-filled moments, a yearning that has been aided greatly by such technological advances as cushiony chairs and spicy appetizers. But we never really lost our urge to gather ’round the fire on nippy evenings. 

Thankfully, restaurants in Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley are doing their best to accommodate our heat-seeking urges. These days, the flickering flames are likely to be fueled by gas, but the relaxing vibes are just as effective, especially when accompanied by good friends and good food. 

Banks Seafood Kitchen and Raw Bar, 101 S. Market St., Wilmington, Delaware 

The vibes are classy and cool at this Riverfront Wilmington hotspot, known for its dead-on interpretations of regional seafood classics. Top-notch raw bar and a convivial cocktail bar make it a choice spot for nibbling and sipping the evening away. 

Buckley's Mushroom SoupBBC Tavern & Grill, 4019 Kennett Pike, Greenville, Delaware 

An easygoing elegance is somehow smoothly paired with a fun-loving attitude at this gem nestled near the estates around Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library. The food keeps its focus on notched-up gastropub fare, though our cravings for heat might be handled most appropriately by the Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich with jalapeno coleslaw. 

Buckley's Tavern, 5812 Kennett Pike, Centreville, Delaware 

This historic building nicely captures that perfectly cozy colonial charm, making it the perfect prelude to a day exploring the museums of “Chateau Country.” Even when it’s not the tail-end of winter, fans rave about the warming joys of Buckley’s Exotic Cream of Mushroom Soup with crispy leeks. 

Columbus Inn, 2216 Pennsylvania Ave., Wilmington, Delaware 

The kitchen of this 300-year-old stalwart perks up its elevated gastropub menu with some creative flair, attracting us to such temptations as the Maple, Bourbon & Black Pepper Beef Short Rib (served with mesquite-spiced campfire potatoes); or its Blackened Shrimp & Grits (with cave-aged cheddar). 

Washington Street Ale House, 1206 Washington St., Wilmington, Delaware 

This time-tested favorite was doing gastropub goodness before gastropubs were even a thing. Check out the far-ranging selection of microbrews, and don’t miss such sassy dishes as the Blackened Shrimp Quesadilla or the Crab Cakes with Old Bay Remoulade. 

Catherine Rooney’s Irish Pub, 616 Delaware Ave, Wilmington, Delaware 

Tucked in among the trendy restaurants and shops that make Trolley Square such a great destination, Catherine Rooney’s celebrates its Irish roots with dishes like Shepherd’s Pie and Bangers and Mash, along with a great lineup of affordable pub-grub favorites. 

Firebirds Wood-Fired Grill, 1225 Churchmans Road, Newark, Delaware; 91 Wilmington West Chester Pike, Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania 

Everything about Firebirds seems designed for cozy comfort: The cushy booths, the subdued-but-refined decor, and especially the dry-aged, hardwood-grilled steaks. Heck, this place is so perfect for a late winter excursion that they even name their bar “FIREBAR.” 

Harry's Savoy SteakHarry’s Savoy Grill & Ballroom, 2020 Naamans Road, Wilmington, Delaware 

Old-school excesses are not only allowed, they are encouraged at this Northern Wilmington crowd favorite, known for its ginormous prime rib platters and perfectly classy bar. 

The Whip Tavern, 1383 N. Chatham Rd., West Marlborough, Pennsylvania 

Cozy and clubby, this hotspot of the equestrian set keeps things homey with lots of Brit-pub goodness, including Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips. Don’t miss the exceedingly rare regional appearance of the classic “Beef on Weck” sandwich (a Western New York State favorite).