You’re at the beach. Mangia!

I don’t think I know anyone who doesn’t like Italian food (this is NOT an invitation to email me if you don’t). There’s no shortage of Italian joints here at the beach; some are certainly better than others, and locals are passionate about their favorites.

So retrieve your checkered tablecloth and Chianti bottle candle from the attic and let’s get started. The corner of Baltimore Avenue and N. First Street is certainly one of the epicenters for Italian dining in Rehoboth Beach. Longtime Bethany Beach chef and restaurateur Lisa DiFebo is doing very well at that corner where Adriatico used to be. The covered patio makes for great people-watching. On the opposite corner is Ava’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar where Jake’s Seafood used to be. Chef Alisha Knosp surprises guests every day with Ava’s proprietary Detroit Pizza. Not Sicilian, not Neapolitan, not Chicago, New York or even St. Louis – it’s an entirely unique experience. I love the salads at both DiFebo’s and Ava’s.

No mention of Italian is complete without Touch of Italy on Coastal Highway in Rehoboth, Lewes and Ocean City. Big boss Bob Ciprietti keeps things Bronx-centric with wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, meats and cheeses delivered directly from the Bronx and Touch of Italy’s own Italian pastries freshly crafted daily in Lewes.

This article is not really about pizza, but Pat’s Family Pizzeria in Lewes has a number of Italian entrees that are quite good. I recommend the lasagne! Also in Lewes, Mara DePace’s Villa Sorrento is about as “neighborhood” as you can get. And as if clams with linguini and a good chopped salad weren’t enough, classically trained Mara randomly bursts into song to celebrate particularly busy nights. Back in downtown Rehoboth, Lupo Italian Kitchen and Sazio give upscale an Italian accent. Lupo’s arancini and veal meatballs will make you smile. One of the mainstays in Rehoboth is, of course, Casa DiLeo. Longtime Rehoboth toque Johnny DiLeo touts a delectably thin New York-style pizza as well as an upbeat bar scene. Frank & Louie’s Italian Specialties at the west end of Baltimore Avenue is loaded with Italian goodies, including overstuffed heroes and grab & go entrees.

There is one place in a land far, far away that certainly deserves mention, and that’s Mancini’s in Fenwick Island. Since 1995, Gabriel Mancini has been dishin’ up exceptional Italian topped with his Nonna’s red sauce. The salads are generous and drizzled with a very good balsamic dressing.

That should keep you busy for a while. By the way, I was kidding about not emailing me. Go ahead. I have a delete button.