Behold the semi-annual hidden-gems treasure map

Here in my little corner of the Cape Gazette, I pride myself on being an equal-opportunity eater. The Cape Region wouldn't be the dining mecca that it is without our mix of big, busy restaurants, fine-dining treasures and smaller, tucked-away eateries that can only be discovered with a compass and a divining rod.

As part of my efforts to keep you happily noshing, I've assembled a short list of off-the-beaten-path delights. Note the words "short list." I'm allotted only so much ink in my little corner. 

Wilmington Avenue's Shorebreak Lodge is under new ownership, and is slowly moving out of the best-kept-secret category. Talented Chef Shane Kellagher and his new bosses made very few changes to former owner and chef Rob Stitt's popular menu. Changes will come, but many of the old Shorebreak favorites are still there. Modern Mixture (identified on The Avenue only by a bright orange awning) has a new menu with a more Mexican bent. Owner Leo Cabrera offers his unique take on savory burritos, Cubans and freshly chopped salads laced with lime juice. 

Across from Shorebreak Lodge is yet another seemingly disembodied awning. Venture thereunder for a bit of Key West! Ask GM Mike Dangerfield for fried alligator, perfect fish tacos and booze in the blender. He has made Zogg's the perfect sanctuary for when you step on a pop top and blow out your flip-flop. Speaking of flip-flops, Zogg's bosses Anthony and Chris Jacona are part of the group taking on the huge Wharf space on the canal in Lewes. It will be called Wheelhouse and after some much-needed renovation will definitely be open by the spring. 

Though it's pretty big in its own right, I think that the new Big Oyster Brewery on Kings Highway qualifies as a hidden gem because it is set so far off the road. The kitchen prides itself on taking brewpub food to new heights, and my several visits there have not been disappointing. And you get to wash it all down with Big Oyster's tasty brews. While in Lewes, venture over the drawbridge and peek at the Beacon Motel. There you will see the Pig & Publican with its rotating drafts and Belgian-influenced menu. Say hi to Eddie Pardocci behind the bar. He always remembers your favorites. 

Another tiny spot that can only be located with a finely tuned GPS is the small in size but big on flavor Starboard Raw. Blink and you'll miss it - but this spot has a lot more than just oysters going for it: explore the entrees and the clever apps. You'll find Starboard Raw in that little row of Dewey Beach eateries that includes Gary's Dewey Beach Grill (sushi's the sleeper there!), Jimmy O'Conor's Woody's (go for the crabcakes, go back for the burgers), Pam Minhas' Baked coffee bar/bakery, and of course the never-know-if-they'll-be-open-in-the-winter (but it's worth the mystery) Sunrise restaurant with its made-to-order, no-frills breakfasts and regulation-style club sandwiches. 

Trekking northward, no trip to Milton would be complete without a bowl of gumbo at Mike Clampitt's Po'Boys Creole & Fresh Catch. Po'Boys is on the right by the Dollar Store as you enter Milton on Route 16. After downing your allotment of jambalaya, motor a few blocks west, turn left on Union Street where you'll find Suburban Farmhouse hiding at the corner on Federal Street. The Cruffins. Get the Cruffins. 

A bit farther west in Georgetown, Patty Jacobs' tiny carryout on S. Bedford Street isn't so hidden that somebody didn't crash a car into it last winter! But that's all in the past. There's no beating Patty's selection of cheese, homemade cookies, salads and sandwiches. 

I told you it was a short list, and I challenge you to uncover even more hidden gems. Go eat. Explore. It's good for you.