They’re comin’! You’d better be ready

When I first moved here, a longtime resident warned me that I’d suddenly hear from all sorts of “friends” since I now had a home at the beach. She was right. But for me, it was fun, because I love showing off our Cape Region restaurants. The 2023 season is the light at the end of the tunnel — and rest assured: It’s a train. And when friends and family descend upon us, we know our beach towns are well equipped to keep them fat and happy. Well, at least happy!

So I’ve come up with a short list that represents what a few of our culinary neighbors and friends have to offer. More and more eateries are changing their menus along with the seasons, so some of the dishes that follow might be on the menu, and some might be on hiatus. But I promise that you’ll find something to make your guests’ palates smile.

One of the shining stars in downtown Lewes is the award-winning Raas Asian/Indian fusion restaurant. Chef GG is the master of ceremonies there, and in many cases he’s happy to advise you on what to order. I’ll share my pick hits: the garlic/cheese naan, the fried water chestnuts, the Keema Pao and the Lamb Rogan Josh.

A couple of years ago, a trio of restaurants took Rehoboth by storm. The flagship of the group is none other than Theo’s Steaks, Sides & Spirits on Baltimore Avenue. Reservations are a must at Theo’s, especially on weekends, in or out of season. Just a hop, skip and a waddle east is Ava’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar. The Detroit pizza with pepperoni is a slam dunk there at the corner of First Street and Baltimore Avenue. Perpetually smiling Executive Chef Alisha might even deliver your order to your table (along with a quick soliloquy describing the preparation). Out on the highway in the Safeway center is Hammy’s Burgers & Shakes. Flame-broiled burgers are the star, but don’t miss the jerk-spiced and Thai Asian wings. Defy the spices with an adult milkshake.

Tom, Tammy and Johnny’s 1776 Steakhouse in Midway has been dishing up quiet elegance and expertly prepared steaks for upwards of 35 years. I can never get past the New York strip, but I have to tell you the filet is also a must-get. Belly up to the bar and ask Matt, Tattoo or one of their loyal minions about the Trappist beers.

One of the best brunch deals in Delaware is at Bethany Blues in Lewes. Don’t miss the French toast bake, the BBQ skillet, and the sausage biscuits & gravy.

If you’re looking to splurge a bit, get reservations at Michy’s Relaxed Dining. I suggest the chardonnay-poached pear salad to start, and then chef/owner Richard Davis’ amazing Forever Braised Short Ribs with caramelized fennel. Again, life is short and menus change. But you will not leave Michy’s unhappy.

When Touch of Italy owner Bob Ciprietti bought a vacation home here, he longed for the authentic Italian food from his childhood in The Bronx. So he took matters into his own hands and put together Touch of Italy’s wood-fired pizzas and straight-ahead Italian dishes. (Don’t miss the lasagna and the chicken parm!) TOI now has three busy locations, plus a fine-dining steakhouse in the Bally’s Dover casino. Keep an eye on the Rehoboth location — it’s expanding!

What’s the beach without crab cakes? Your guests might never visit you again (could be a good or a bad thing ...) if you don’t take them to Woody’s Dewey Beach Bar & Grill. Jimmy O’Conor whips up a fine ‘cake at his tiny storefront on Coastal Highway.

A downtown Rehoboth landmark on the ocean block of Baltimore Avenue is Café Azafran. This tapas-centered spot has great cocktails. If your in-season guests are lucky, Chef Richard will be doing one of his reservations-only paella feasts. Keep an eye on RehobothFoodie.com to see the announcement.

I’m running out of room, but I can’t stop without suggesting Mariachi at the ocean end of Wilmington Avenue for Mexican/Salvadorean treats, and Confucius Gourmet Chinese at the other end of Wilmington for Shawn and Danielle Xiong’s crispy whole fish. On Sunday mornings, keep Blackwall at the Beach in mind; it even has a first-Sunday-of-the-month jazz brunch. Get the Shrimp Blackwall. Oh, and the chicken & waffles. You can thank me later.

So many restaurants, so little time! But your guests will love the assortment of beach eats here in our Cape Region. No wonder we’re still The Nation’s Summer Capital.