Downtown Blues changing floor plans to attract customers

Looking to draw in more pedestrians, Downtown Blues in Rehoboth Beach is flip-flopping its layout so the bar will be in the front of the restaurant and the booths will be in the back. In addition to the change in floor plan, the bar will also be increasing from eight to 13 seats.

Located on North First Street, Downtown Blues opened in June 2023 and is part of the Bethany Blues group of restaurants. The others are in downtown Bethany Beach and on Route 1 outside Lewes. The Rehoboth space is the former longtime home of the original Nicola Pizza.

Rehoboth Beach blessed the floor plan change during a permit-of-compliance hearing Feb. 21. Owner Steve Montgomery was on hand representing the restaurant. He said as soon as they opened a couple of years ago, they realized they didn’t like the layout. With the little bar in the back and the booths in the front, there’s very little vibe and it’s quiet, he said.

“Our other two locations are more destination locations. People drive to them to go to them. We understand Rehoboth today better than we did two years ago. It’s a walking town, and when people are walking by, it’s got to be inviting. It was not,” said Montgomery.

The restaurant is temporarily closed during the renovation process. For more information on Downtown Blues, 8 N. First St., call 302-900-2227 or go to downtownbluesrehoboth.com.