Hidden gems at the beach

There are a number of tucked-away spots here at the beach where good food is served with a smile.

You have to explore the nooks and crannies, but the effort is worth it!

As part of my ongoing campaign to keep you chewin', I've assembled a short list of off-the-beaten-path delights. Remember, this is just the short list, so feel free to explore on your own.

One of the newest kids in town is Mug & Spoon, just a few steps from the Boardwalk on the south side of Rehoboth Avenue.

Comfortably ensconced in the Schell Bros. Coffee House (you can peruse their homebuilding services while you sip), this operation offers one-of-a-kind sweet treats, many of which are combined with delicious coffee. Check out the nitro coffee: It's like a Guinness with caffeine, no alcohol, but with lots of attitude. It's all about the bubbles.

One of Wilmington Avenue's best-kept secrets is Zogg's. You have to look closely or you'll miss it.

With one of the best selections of rums in the area and some of the best fish tacos this side of the ocean, I don't think you'll be disappointed with this ultra-informal place with its own outdoor tiki bar. Look behind Gus & Gus' Place. Zogg's is there.

Leo Cabrera's Modern Mixture is on the ocean block of Rehoboth Avenue, but if you blink, you'll miss it.

You'll also miss his crunchy chopped salads laced with fresh lime juice, his delicious burritos and Cubans, his tamales and delicious cocktails. Look for the awning just a few doors east of First Street Station.

Hidden in the CAMP Rehoboth courtyard on Baltimore Avenue is none other than Lori's Oy Vey Café. The outdoor seating with smiling, chewing faces will be your clue to Lori's signature chicken salad and those amazing cookies.

Another hidden spot run by nice people is Café Azafran on the ocean block of Baltimore Avenue. This longtime favorite offers a combination of small plates and entrees with a Mediterranean flair.

The kickers at Café Azafran are not only Holly Lane the singing bartender, but also owner Rich Steele's made-right-in-front-of-you paella nights. These reservation-only gatherings are the stuff of legend. Beware: They book up fast.

Last and certainly not least is Confucius. Shawn and Danielle Xiong's tiny beach house eatery (you'll have to search for a sign) serves up some of the freshest Chinese food you'll get around here. Everything is made to order.

Though Shawn is always willing to mollify the spice wimps, if you like it spicy he'll be more than happy to oblige.

There are more places, but I'm out of ink. So eat. Explore. It's good for you.