20 Best Restaurants in Wilmington, DE

This article was written by local contributor Alexa Collins & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Alexa Collins

Jun 18, 2023 • 17 min read

As a long-time resident of Wilmington, Delaware, one of my favorite things about living in this charming city is the thriving culinary scene.

Whether you're just visiting for a weekend or have called Wilmington home for years, you're in for a real treat when you explore our diverse selection of dining establishments.

From classic American fare to exotic international cuisine, there's truly something for everyone in this gastronomic haven.

So, let's delve into some of the best restaurants in Wilmington, Delaware, where mouthwatering dishes and superb service await you at every turn.

Get ready to satisfy your cravings and discover a whole new world of deliciousness!

Three Amigos

I have been to my fair share of Mexican restaurants in the area, but Three Amigos has truly become my favorite spot for a quick and delicious Mexican meal.

From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat.

The atmosphere is inviting, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.

One of the things that stands out about Three Amigos is the freshness and quality of their food.

My go-to dishes are the beef and chorizo soft tacos, and let me tell you, they never disappoint.

The steak bowl is another personal favorite, and the portion size is always generous for the price.

The complimentary tortilla chips and homemade dipping sauce are just the cherry on top of an already amazing meal.

I must admit, I do wish they wouldn't add sugar to their freshly squeezed pineapple juice, but that's a minor complaint in comparison to the overall fantastic experience at Three Amigos.

The restaurant has quickly become my favorite for a satisfying and flavorful Mexican meal.

And it's not just me - everyone I've introduced to this place has raved about their experience as well.

Scalessa's "My Way" Old School Italian Kitchen

I recently visited Scalessa's "My Way" Old School Italian Kitchen, and let me tell you, it was an amazing experience.

From the moment I stepped in, I felt the cozy and homey atmosphere of the place.

What caught my attention was how you order your food at the counter and pick a seat before witnessing the magic unfold.

The presentation of the food on real dishes and stunning plating had me in awe.

But the best part was the taste - absolutely divine.

I still can't get the calamari with red pepper sauce out of my mind.

I also tried their meatball salad, which was a unique and mouth-watering creation.

A friend of mine had recommended their meatballs, and I'm glad I listened.

They were the best I've ever had, served with red sauce and ricotta cheese.

I'm not usually a fan of ricotta, but they made it work so well.

I couldn't get enough of the chicken scalessa and cheese gnocchi that I tried for the main course.

It was a one-of-a-kind dish that I hadn't experienced before.

Although I visited close to their closing time, I never felt rushed.

The prices were affordable, and the food was simply outstanding.

Dorcea

I absolutely love going to Dorcea for a relaxing night out or to meet up with friends over a delicious meal.

The atmosphere is easygoing, and the cafe offers a great selection of seafood, pasta, and other familiar mains.

I often find myself getting lost in their amazing soup flight, which never fails to impress me with its unique flavors.

One thing I really appreciate about Dorcea is their attentive service.

I remember making a reservation through Resy and adding some notes about my preferences - they took the time to read them and provided me with the perfect seating arrangement!

The bartenders are always on point with their drink recommendations too.

I've tried a variety of their offerings, from the extensive draft list to the well-curated wine list, and I've never been disappointed.

La Fia Bistro

One of my favorite spots in Wilmington has to be La Fia Bistro.

I have been there several times, and each visit is a culinary adventure.

The globally inspired dishes crafted from local products never disappoint.

The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a warm evening with friends or a romantic dinner for two.

La Fia offers a prix fixe tasting menu, and I have yet to be disappointed by any of the selections.

The carefully crafted food and drinks have always been of high quality.

The ambiance is charming, with an artistic touch from the murals painted by a local artist.

The steak and strawberry salad is a particular favorite of mine, with the meat cooked to perfection and a delightful blend of flavors.

My partner loves the ravioli, another excellent choice.

And we both agree that the crispy duck plate is simply divine – the crispiness and flavor profiles are unbeatable.

Go Vegan Philly

If there's one place in Delaware that never fails to impress me, it's Go Vegan Philly.

One of the things I love most about Go Vegan Philly is the variety in their menu.

I often visit with friends so that we can try different dishes and share our favorites.

The cheesesteak eggless rolls, cauliflower wings, and Mac and cheese are some of the crowd-pleasers that we've come to love.

Even my non-vegan friends are impressed by the quality of the dishes and the fact that they don't feel greasy or unhealthy.

During my last visit, I tried their E.V.E. sandwich, which was absolutely divine.

The oyster mushrooms were crunchy and packed with flavor, while their custom sauce added a unique touch to the dish.

The payment system they have in place is quick and easy, making the overall dining experience truly delightful.

Angelo's Luncheonette

One of my favorite morning spots in town has to be Angelo's Luncheonette.

I've been going there for years, and let me tell you, they've maintained their charm and quality all this time.

It's a small, old-school breakfast restaurant that I just can't get enough of.

You can tell that this place is a favorite amongst locals, and it's always nice to see familiar faces.

Their menu offers a great selection of breakfast items, but they also have some delicious lunch options as well.

I absolutely love their turkey sandwich, which has become my usual lunch choice.

When visiting Angelo's Luncheonette, do keep in mind that they're closed on weekends and only accept cash.

But trust me, once you experience the cozy ambiance and mouthwatering food, you'll be more than happy to make sure you have some cash on hand.

The Mayne Dish

I've been residing near The Mayne Dish for quite some time now, and I'm so glad I finally decided to give it a try.

As a lover of Caribbean cuisine, I can honestly say that their authentic Jamaican dishes never disappoint.

The curry goat is hands down the best I've ever had outside of Jamaica.

They've got a great selection of dishes to choose from, like jerk chicken, jerk pork, and mouthwatering sides.

Surprisingly, their fried chicken is some of the best I've ever tasted!

One time, they were out of plantains, so I tried their baked mac, and it was absolutely delicious.

In comparison to other Jamaican places I've tried, like OB Jamaican in Chester, PA, The Mayne Dish holds its own in terms of flavor and quantity.

Carmen's Kitchen

I recently stumbled upon this amazing Puerto Rican restaurant called Carmen's Kitchen, and I have to share my experience with you all.

The restaurant is a hidden gem tucked away from the busy roads, providing an intimate and inviting atmosphere.

The ladies who run Carmen's Kitchen are not only kind but also incredibly funny, making the whole dining experience even more enjoyable.

I've only been there once, but I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

The food is absolutely delicious, with deep and complex flavors that make it feel like the meat has been cooked for hours.

It's an authentic taste of Puerto Rico that transports you straight to the island.

My personal favorites are the beef patties with cheese and the regular ones, both of which are perfectly seasoned and freshly made.

And even though I don't usually eat yuca alcapurria, I couldn't resist trying it at Carmen's Kitchen – and I'm glad I did!

It was so delicious that I'm now a convert.

For those who don't live nearby, don't worry – DoorDash can deliver this fantastic cuisine straight to your door, so there's no excuse not to give it a try.

Eclipse Bistro

Eclipse Bistro is a cozy and sophisticated eatery that has never disappointed me with its innovative and artfully presented New American fare and wine selections.

The atmosphere, although busy, is warm and perfect for a date night or just enjoying a good meal with friends.

Their menu is quite impressive, providing enticing options that cater to various tastes.

I've tried a variety of their dishes, including their meat, poultry, and fish options, and each time I'm left satisfied and eager to return.

Oh, and their cocktails?

Simply creative and delicious!

Although the restaurant can get crowded and loud at times, particularly on weekends, it doesn't deter me from coming back for the exceptional food and service.

In fact, I find the lively atmosphere part of the charm of this local gem.

Plus, they offer outdoor seating during nice weather, which is a pleasant alternative if you prefer a quieter setting.

With convenient parking available right outside, Eclipse Bistro has become one of my favorite places in town to indulge in delicious food and enjoy a memorable dining experience.

Luigi Vitrone's Pastabilities

I've been coming to Luigi Vitrone's Pastabilities for years now, and it's become my favorite Italian restaurant in the area.

It's located in the cozy, rustic Little Italy neighborhood, and they've been serving up amazing, freshly prepared dishes since 1988.

The food at Pastabilities is simply incredible.

Everything is made to order, and you can really taste the freshness in each dish.

My all-time favorite is the Carbonara sauce, but honestly, you can't go wrong with anything on the menu.

The homemade Limoncello martinis are a must-try as well - they're the perfect complement to any meal.

The atmosphere at Pastabilities is truly unique.

It reminds me of those small, family-run restaurants in New York City, where you can feel the love and passion for the food in every bite.

One thing to note is that seating is limited, so I'd recommend booking in advance.

I've celebrated many special occasions there with friends and family, and it's always a night to remember.

Burrito Bandido

Let me tell you about a gem I found in my neighborhood – Burrito Bandido.

This Mexican restaurant is a small, charming spot with a mom and pops feel to it.

The moment I walked in, I was greeted by lush indoor plants and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately made me feel at home.

What really stood out to me was the exceptional service.

Despite being a small team, they were highly efficient and attentive, making sure that all my questions were answered and my needs were met.

As for the food, it was absolutely delicious.

I ordered the quesabirria, and not only was it tasty, but the portions were also bigger than I expected.

Parking was a breeze, too, with about six spaces available – so there was no need to worry about finding a spot on a busy day.

The restaurant had a few booths and a couple of tables, making it a cozy and aesthetically pleasing place to dine.

They serve a variety of Coke products, and the chips and salsa were to die for!

The light green salsa with a little avocado had a spicy kick to it, which was balanced out perfectly by the creamy cilantro flavor.

K & R International Restaurant & Bar

For a Caribbean treat in Wilmington, K & R International Restaurant & Bar is my top choice.

I've had the pleasure of experiencing both their dine-in and takeout options, and I'm never disappointed.

Every time I visit, I can't resist ordering their oxtails with rice and peas, cabbage, and jerk chicken.

Their jerk chicken is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the rice soaks up all those rich, spicy flavors, making it one of the best dishes I've ever tasted.

I also love their curry goat and potato greens, which remind me of my family's home-cooked meals.

One of my favorite things about K & R is their inviting atmosphere.

I often enjoy relaxing with a hookah and a drink from their fantastic bar while I wait for my food.

Southeast Kitchen

Every Friday, I find myself gravitating towards Southeast Kitchen, a local gem that serves some of the best Vietnamese and Thai dishes in town.

I've been a regular for over two years now, and I can confidently say that the food here never disappoints.

I appreciate how they handle the spice levels, ensuring that every dish is spiced to order.

I love how they give me a sense of privacy, never treating me like a regular even though I've been coming here for quite some time.

This low-key nook is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy great food without any fuss.

One of my favorite dishes at Southeast Kitchen is their Drunken Noodles.

They're different from what I'm used to at other restaurants, but so incredibly delicious.

I also highly recommend their Red Coconut Curry, which has an amazing flavor that keeps me coming back for more.

When ordering, just be cautious of the spice levels; even a level 2 can be quite spicy for a dish like Pad Thai.

Ristorante Attilio

As someone who has lived in the area for years, I can confidently say that Ristorante Attilio is a must-visit Italian restaurant.

I've been going there since the late 80s, and it never disappoints.

It's been a family-owned spot since 1985, offering handmade pasta and other Italian specialties that you just can't resist.

You can check out their website here.

Whenever I have company over, we usually order from Ristorante Attilio.

Their unique Italian dishes are always a hit, and the lasagna is simply "amazing."

The fried long hots and chopped antipasta are equally impressive, and their greens with garlic are to die for.

Negril Restaurant

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Negril Caribbean Restaurant LLC, and it left me with a delightful experience.

It had been a while since I last visited, and I was pleasantly surprised to see that the place had undergone some modern renovations.

The food was absolutely delicious - I ordered the large jerk chicken, rice & beans, and cabbage, and the flavors were spot on.

The jerk chicken had the perfect amount of heat, and the portion size was generous for the price.

What stood out to me the most was the consistency of the food quality.

I've been back three times now, and each time, the dishes have been outstanding.

I also highly recommend trying their authentic drinks from Jamaica – I've enjoyed every one of them.

The cleanliness of the establishment is also noteworthy.

Cavanaugh's

One of my favorite spots for a casual lunch in town is Cavanaugh's Restaurant.

I often find myself stopping by for a quick bite, and the food never disappoints.

The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying some alone time.

The upstairs seating is a nice touch, providing a cozier dining experience.

When it comes to their menu, I'm a big fan of their burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

Not to mention, their French fries are absolutely fantastic, especially when paired with some delicious ketchup.

On a colder day, I love treating myself to their French onion soup – it's simply delightful!

I remember being welcomed in by a smiling guy the first time I visited, and that same level of hospitality has remained consistent ever since.

Mrs. Robino's Restaurant

Let me tell you about my recent dining experience at Mrs. Robino's Restaurant.

This old-school Italian restaurant is located in a renovated row house from the 1940s and serves classic red-sauce dishes.

The place has a lovely and inviting ambiance, making it perfect for a cozy meal with friends or family.

I have visited Mrs. Robino's several times, and the food never disappoints.

The portion sizes are incredibly generous and definitely worth the price.

On my last visit, I indulged in their pizza, lemonade, and espresso.

Although they don't offer individual-sized pizzas or pizza-by-the-slice, the quality, and taste make up for it.

I particularly enjoyed their tiramisu, which was the best one I've had since my time in Germany.

Bardea Food & Drink

I had one of the most memorable date nights with my partner at Bardea Food & Drink, a contemporary Italian bistro in the heart of Wilmington.

We decided to give it a try, and it exceeded our expectations.

The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a stylish yet comfortable décor.

She did an excellent job recommending dishes and making sure we had everything we needed.

We started with the unique and delicious burrata pop tart, followed by a perfectly seasoned fish dish that practically melted in our mouths.

The drinks were also fantastic, and there was a good vibe throughout the entire evening.

One thing I particularly enjoyed about Bardea is that they offer a variety of dishes meant to be shared.

With so many options, it's a great place to try multiple things in one sitting.

I've heard great things about their charred octopus and raw dishes, so I'll definitely be trying those during my next visit.

Columbus Inn

I've been to Columbus Inn multiple times on various occasions.

Every time I visit, I am always amazed by the combination of their contemporary tavern setting, delicious New American food, and the charm of the elegant 18th-century landmark building they're housed in.

One of my most memorable experiences at Columbus Inn was when I went there for an impromptu date night.

For our dinner, we tried their seasonal salmon dish with mushroom butternut squash risotto, which was undoubtedly one of the best salmon dishes I've ever had.

Their maple, bourbon & black pepper beef short rib entree has a crispy texture, and the pumpkin brûlée dessert more than made up for it and left us with a sweet taste in our mouths.

King Taco Co.

One of the best places in the city for authentic Mexican food is King Taco Co.

What I love most about this restaurant is the freshness of their food.

Whenever I've dined here, I've always been pleased with the quality of their ingredients.

The Bistec Rachero, Cubano torta, fried chimichangas, jalapeño poppers, carne asada fries, and queso are some of my favorites.

Trust me, you can't go wrong with any of them.

The service doesn't take too long, so you won't be waiting around for your delicious meal.

Another unique aspect of King Taco Co. is their salsa.

It has a spicy Chipotle taste that adds a fantastic kick to any dish you order.

Don't be fooled by the restaurant's appearance – at first glance, it looks like there's not much seating available, but there's actually plenty of seating in the back, including tables that can accommodate up to 8 people.

Final Thoughts

Having lived in Wilmington for quite some time now, I can confidently say that the city offers an abundance of delectable dining options for any food lover.

From scrumptious Italian cuisine at Ristorante Attilio to the vibrant flavors at Negril Caribbean Restaurant, there's truly something to suit everyone's taste buds.

So, whether you're in the mood for a hearty burrito, a refreshing vegan meal, or a classic steak dinner, you won't be disappointed by Wilmington's culinary scene.

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