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Bethany Beach visitors know this coastal town is a hidden gem in Delaware. The expansive boardwalk lines an endless sandy beachfront, making it attractive to tourists booking from all over America. While many arrive for the sun, surf, and sand, they often come for the Bethany Beach restaurants.
Only 5-hours by car from New York City, this hip American town hosts some of the best seafood in the state. From crabs to sand dabs and beyond, follow Garfield Parkway toward the water and you’re in for a treat.
The Best Bethany Beach Restaurants
If you’re near Bethany Beach and looking for a bite worth mentioning. Here are some of the best Bethany Beach restaurants to try.
The Blue Crab
The Blue Crab is located on the lively Garfield Parkway and is best known for its oyster bar and homemade crab dip. It’s a casual diner-style seafood restaurant with a mix of booths and chairs atop a classic American checkered floor.
It’s a great place to stop for a bite if you’re out with the family – the restaurant caters to diners of all ages and includes a substantial kid’s menu. The Blue Crab also supplies brown paper table covers, perfect for creating works of art while your kiddos wait for the food to arrive.
Try the blue crab feast, and you won’t be disappointed. Steamed blue crabs, hush puppies, a cob of corn, and Delaware-style fried chicken will have you planning your next visit before you even leave.
Patsy’s Restaurant
Still focusing on fresh local seafood, Patsy’s Restaurant takes diners on a trip down south. Inspired by Key West flavors, Patsy’s is chef-owned and strives to use only local organic farm produce.
The vibes at Patsy’s are trendy and casual. This is a versatile spot, perfect for a girls night out or a romantic meal. A light-strewn patio offers outdoor dining, as well as the traditional indoor atmosphere.
If you choose Patsy’s Restaurant as one of the Bethany Beach restaurants you visit, try the Key West conch fritters and Cuban pork. The fritters are served golden brown with spicy chipotle pepper aioli, while the pork is served with beans, avocado, rice, onions, and plantains. They have vegetarian and gluten-free options as well.
Off the Hook
With bright airy décor, and an octopus mural you won’t soon forget, Off the Hook is a local favorite. This restaurant introduces itself as “fresh, honest, and local”; what you see on your plate is what you get, with no fillers, and no fakes. Located on Garfield Parkway, it’s another very easy-access option.
While the lobster bucatini will have your mouth watering, the butchers cut, served with crispy parmesan Frites and bacon horseradish aioli is where it’s at. The honey lemon ricotta is another excellent choice if you’re taking a break from the seafood side of Off the Hook.
Bethany’s Boathouse
Bethany’s Boathouse, on Hickman Plaza Road, offers super summer vibes. The patio, propped on stilts overlooking the water is the perfect place for an evening cocktail, or a bite to eat. Inside the wood walls, nautical décor, and large floor-to-ceiling windows offer a bright ocean view dining experience you don’t want to miss.
Bethany’s Boathouse is a prime spot for drinks and appetizers. The appetizer list includes fan favorites like Old Bay steamed shrimp, Boathouse nachos, and blackened seared Ahi tuna. On the main’s menu, take a look at the platters. Whether you’re looking for baby back ribs, fish and chips, or lump crab cakes, Bethany’s Boathouse has got you covered.
Ropewalk Bethany Beach
Another Garfield Parkway classic is Ropewalk Bethany Beach. Hardwood floors and suspended fish offer a unique beachside feel, while the menu has something for everyone. From chicken tenders to certified Angus filet mignon, Ropewalk makes an excellent spot for casual fare or a special occasion.
As you get started, give the crab cake egg rolls a try. Crispy shell filled with sweet crab meat and a Thai aioli dip makes a refreshing starter bite. For the main, locals give the day boat scallops and swordfish high-ranking reviews. When in one of the many talented Bethany Beach restaurants, it only makes sense to embrace the oceanside with seafood.
Bethany Blues BBQ
A family-friendly, casual BBQ joint with flare, Bethany Blues BBQ is the best Bethany Beach restaurant for grilled grub. Cozy booths and a warm earthy color scheme make this restaurant feel like a home away from home. For those diners in short-term rentals, having a little go-to spot for the family makes grabbing a sit-down dinner together a breeze.
With brunch, lunch, dinner, and daily specials, it’s no surprise this place is popular among locals. Looking for a taste from the grill? The Carolina chopped pork shoulder is hickory smoked and served with a Carolina vinegar BBQ sauce. It’s tangy, smoky, and sweet, and pairs perfectly with braised greens and garlic mashed potatoes. If you’re looking to try a little bit of everything, go for the ultimate BBQ sampler for a mix of ribs, pork, chicken, brisket, andouille sausage, and Cajun smoked turkey.
DiFebio’s Restaurant
When Bethany Beach locals get a craving for Italian, DiFebio’s Restaurant is the best spot in town. From fried Roman artichokes to tagliatelle carbonara, DiFebio’s specializes in fresh pasta, locally sourced seafood and produce, and a high-end atmosphere.
Visit DiFebio’s Restaurant to impress colleagues, wine and dine your spouse, or for an upscale evening with friends. The mozzarella stuffed zucchini flowers make a great starter. Follow them with steamed mussels with grilled bread and the shrimp puttanesca. For a meal without meat, online recommendations by locals call for the classic cheese ravioli or burrata bruschetta.
Wrapping Up
Bethany Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists in Delaware. While planning your visit, don’t miss out on these local Bethany Beach restaurants. Plan a trip to remember and dine in style. Whether out on the town or fresh out of the water.
Eat well, enjoy the view, and come back soon. Need a place to stay? No problem. Rent Bethany Beach Boardwalk vacation rentals with RentByOwner.
Featured Image Credit: YARUNIV Studio
