The annual hidden-gems treasure map

I like to think of myself as an equal-opportunity eater. The Cape Region’s eclectic mix of big, busy restaurants; small, tucked-away eateries; and rare fine-dining treasures can be a delectable challenge for an adventurous diner. So I’ve cobbled together a short list of hidden-away delights that will make a little search well worth your time. 

It might be tiny, but Modern Mixture (identified on The Avenue only by a bright-orange awning) has a new and exciting menu with a Mexican bent. Leo Cabrera’s user-friendly layout offers a unique take on savory burritos, Cubans and freshly chopped salads laced with lime juice. 

Just around the corner is Goolee’s Grille. Though it’s well-known as a breakfast/lunch place, I must tell you that the hidden-gem status derives from the sort-of-monthly Greek Nights. Every so often when they are in the mood, George “Goolee” Stakias’ mom and dad throw him out of the kitchen and whip up a totally authentic Greek feast. This reservations-only event is an oasis of Hellenic treats for those of us who pine for a good Greek restaurant around here. By the way, you might be wondering why a nice guy like George is called “Goolee.” Well, the Greek name for “George” is Giorgos, roughly pronounced “yior-gos” or affectionately, “yior-gee.” One of the family kids simply couldn’t wrap her tiny mouth around the word, and it came out “Goolee.” See the valuable things you learn on this page!? 

Walk about a block east to yet another seemingly disembodied awning that draws you into a little bit of Key West - Zogg’s. Fried alligator. About a million different kinds of rum. Great fish tacos. Booze in the blender. Buffett would love this island sanctuary where he could step on a pop-top and blow out his flip-flop. 

Gilligan’s Bar & Grill is on Route 16 (just past Po’Boys - another hidden gem) as you enter Milton. I finally made it out to their Sunday brunch buffet last week, and still can’t believe the variety and quality you get for under $20. Live music every weekend packs ‘em in. 

The little commercial row at Paynter’s Mill in Milton has been a revolving door of not-very-well-run restaurants. But I suspect that trend has come to an end with Dina and Oscar Escamilla’s brand-new Good Morning Breakfast Nook. Feedback from my vast network of spies, moles and operatives has been 100 percent positive. I got to taste some of their creations on the radio last week. Meet Dina by clicking on the recent podcast at RehobothFoodie.com/Podcasts. 

Another spot getting a lot of attention is My Sister’s Fault Bakery in Milford, located directly behind the old Georgia House. Everything there is good. From traditional fried dough delights to beautifully spiced empanadas, you will not leave this place hungry. You can meet sisters Rous and Angie on a recent podcast of Sip & Bite by going to the link above. 

Back in a southerly direction, Tequila Real is yet another brand-new spot that is packed just about every night. The extremely informal restaurant is in the old Goodfellas space on Mulberry in Milton. If you’re lucky, you might meet server extraordinaire Maggie Acevedo. Ask her for the Burrito Degollado. Trust me on this. 

No discussion of hidden gems would be complete without mention of Sue Ryan’s Good Earth Market & Restaurant a minute or two west of Ocean View on Route 26. It’s even easier to remember because their initials spell GEM. Don’t be fooled by the health-food bent. Yes, you can get particularly healthy stuff there, but longtime Cape Region chef Nino Mancari can also whip up a pork shank or short rib taco that will make any carnivore smile. They source their breads and desserts from Keith Irwin at Old World Breads. A bit east of there up by the Bethany boardwalk is the secretly amazing Pomodoro Pizza. Rose and Brian Conte are from Italy. They know their sauces and they know their cheese. The moment I took my first bite, I was reminded of Louie & Ernie’s tiny storefront at 1300 Crosby Ave. in the Bronx. Those are some of the best pies I have ever eaten. Thanks to Rose and Brian, I no longer have to suffer the Cross-Bronx Expressway to get my pizza fix. Pomodoro comes closer to that magical New York taste and texture than anyone in our local area. 

In Georgetown, Patty Jacobs’ tiny carryout on S. Bedford St. makes the obligatory trips to the DMV downright enjoyable. Patty’s is the spot to drown your inspection, registration and license woes in amazing egg salad, freshly baked cookies and a selection of overstuffed sandwiches whomped up by her smiling crew.

Five minutes west of Georgetown on Route 404 is the tiny in stature but big on taste Fat Daddy’s BBQ joint. Fat Daddy’s couldn’t be more “down home,” with cute signs all over the place, red checkered tablecloths, and the pervasive aroma of smoldering hickory. Go-to dishes include the beef brisket sandwich and the pulled pork sandwich. Get a side of cornpone. Not sure what that is? There’s your reason to go. 

There are lots of hidden gems, but only so much paper and ink at my disposal. But as a lovely parting gift I will suggest you give Maria D’Ambrogi’s tiny Mexican joint a try. Sirvida is in Dewey Beach, next door to Jimmy O’Conor’s emporium of crabcakes. Do not leave there without saying hi to Maria. She is delightful. 

I told you it was a short list, and I urge you to uncover even more hidden gems.  Go eat. Explore. It’s good for you, and it’s tasty too!