Where to Eat

Gary's has built a massive following by offering a refreshing alternative to standard beach fare focusing on flavorful, healthy options that don't sacrifice satisfaction. Whether you're stopping in for a post-surf fruit smoothie or a full dinner, the quality is consistent and the atmosphere is pure Dewey. Gary's is famous for a few things you won't find anywhere else in town. First up: the Turkey Cheesesteak. It's a legendary Dewey staple! Craft Brews & 38-75 Brewing: Beyond the food, Gary's is a beer lover's paradise with over 100 choices. It also houses their own nano-brewery, 38-75 Brewing, serving up small-batch crafts that are brewed right on-site. The Local Hangout: This is the place to watch the game with friends or a group of locals. The vibe is relaxed and conversational -- perfect for watching the game with friends. Off-Season Perk: If you're here in the quiet months, keep an eye out for their Thursday Turkey Cheesesteak special and free off-season parking. It's also one of the best spots to bring the kids for a real meal.

Sometimes you just need a break from the crab cakes and Orange Crushes. When that craving hits, Mama Maria's is your go-to on Highway One at McKinley Street. The portions here are no joke. We're talking about the kind of Italian comfort food that sticks to your ribs - huge plates of manicotti, salads that can actually feed a group, and solid, no-nonsense pizza. It's casual, consistent, and exactly what you need after a day on the beach. The Vibe: Mama Maria's is a true family-dining staple. It's relaxed, unpretentious, and a favorite with families for good reason. If you need a serious carb-load or a family meal where everyone leaves full, pull up a chair at Mama Maria's.

You don't need to cross state lines to find a proper cheesesteak. Nick's has been holding it down on Highway One for decades, serving up the kind of comfort food that saves you after a long day in the sun or a long night out. It is a family-owned operation that feels like a classic beach town staple, where the focus is on speed and flavor. Let's talk about the cheesesteaks. They chop the meat finely here - no chewy slabs - and ensure the cheese is melted all the way through on pillowy soft bread. While the name says Philly, sleeping on the gyros is a rookie mistake. The beef and lamb combo is legit, served with plenty of sauce and fresh onions. It is straightforward, satisfying comfort food. There is no pretense here, just solid portions and consistent quality that locals have relied on for decades. If you want a hot sub that hits the spot without a long wait for a table, this is your spot.

If the main Starboard across the street is known for its high-energy parties, RAW is where you go for a killer dinner and a slightly more polished night out. The Vibe: The atmosphere is upscale-casual with an industrial, Baltimore-style interior that feels surprisingly polished for Dewey. It is perfect for when you want to hear your friends talk, but you still want that buzz of activity in the air. As the name implies, the seafood game here is strong. The raw bar churns out fresh oysters and clams, and the menu is packed with shareable plates that go way beyond standard fryer fare. They back it up with a serious tap list, pouring plenty of craft brews to wash down those bivalves. If you love the Starboard brand of hospitality but want a proper seat and a top-tier meal, this is your spot. It is the perfect place to kick off your evening before migrating to the rest of the Starboard Group spots nearby.

Taking over the old Mama Celeste's spot at 2001 Coastal Highway, Sauced is the newest sibling in the Starboard family - joining the main bar, RAW, and CLAW to basically take over the block. The vibe here is straightforward and fast. It's a counter-service spot designed to get hot, cheesy goodness into your hands without the wait of a sit-down restaurant. The Food: They focus heavily on New York-style pizza and hearty subs. It is perfect for grabbing a quick slice on your walk back to the condo or taking a whole pie back to the rental house for the crew. Late Night Hours: Sauced is built for the late-night crowd. When the bands wrap up next door and the hunger strikes, this could be a great choice. If you want a solid slice without the hassle of a reservation, this is your move.

Sometimes you don't need a fancy mimosa brunch. Sunrise Restaurant has been Dewey's reliable morning anchor for over 32 years, serving up no-nonsense breakfast and lunch right on Highway One. It is a classic diner experience without the pretense. The portions here are legitimate, so come hungry or plan on taking leftovers back to the rental. The Menu: You will find over ten varieties of omelets, massive pancakes, and French toast, but the breakfast sandwiches are the real heavy hitters here. Make sure you order a side of scrapple - it is a Delaware staple, and Sunrise cooks it exactly how it should be: crispy on the outside. Parking Reality Check: The lot out front is incredibly tight with only about seven or eight spaces, so do not bank on squeezing your SUV in there during a busy July weekend. It is much easier to walk over from your hotel or house, especially since they open the doors bright and early at 6 AM daily. The prices are surprisingly reasonable for beachside dining. If you want a solid, old-school diner breakfast that hits the spot every single time, this is your place.

Finally, a dedicated morning spot on the south end of Coastal Highway. Taking over the space formerly occupied by MezCali, The Dewey Post is exactly the kind of year-round cafe this town needed. Owners Lo and Ashley Skarda have created a warm, inviting atmosphere in this space. The breakfast game here is strong. You can go sweet with Belgian waffles and pastries, or savory with flatbreads and create-your-own hot sandwiches that are honestly huge. It's the perfect fuel before dragging your chair down to the sand. Day to Night: Here is the twist that makes this place special. After closing at 2 PM for a break, they reopen at 5 PM to serve up ice cream and milkshakes. And yes, you can get those shakes "boozy" if you want. It's quickly becoming a favorite dessert stop in town after a seafood dinner. Dog-Friendly: Don't leave the pup at the rental house. The Dewey Post is super dog-friendly, fitting right in with the local culture. Open Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays), this is your spot for a reliable, delicious bite whether it's January or July.

The Starboard is a legendary bar and restaurant that's been a Dewey institution for decades. It's famous for its build-your-own Bloody Mary bar (practically a buffet of hot sauces and garnishes - shrimp, bacon, you name it), and for serving breakfast and late-night drinks with equal enthusiasm. By day, you can get a great omelet or crabby bloody Mary here; by night, it transforms into party central with DJs and dancing. The vibe is "come one, come all" - you'll see bachelorette parties, old Dewey alumni telling stories, off-duty lifeguards, and everyone in between. In 2025, USA Today picked The Starboard as one of the best bars in America. Why? Possibly because it's the "quintessential beach party bar" with a vibrant atmosphere that oozes fun. The Starboard's signature cocktail is the Orange Crush (fresh-squeezed OJ, vodka, triple sec, Sprite) - they squeeze thousands of oranges a week and it's dangerously delicious. Traditions here include the "Running of the Bull" and "Breakfast with Elvis" on certain weekends. If you come to Dewey and don't hit the Starboard, did you really come to Dewey? It's a must-visit, even if just to people-watch and soak up the scene.

Located right on Highway One, Wings To Go is exactly what it sounds like, and honestly, that is exactly what you need sometimes. In a town famous for packed group houses and long weekends, this franchise outpost is a quiet hero for the hungry masses. It isn't fancy, but when the craving for buffalo sauce hits, nothing else will do. It is a great solution for feeding a crowd without having to get dressed up or wait for a table at the crowded bayside bars. Because it's right on the main drag, it is an easy pit stop. The menu is standard for the chain - boneless, traditional, and every heat level from mild to melt-your-face-off. If you are staying in a rental with a big group, this is the easiest dinner decision you will make all week. Skip the argument about where to eat, grab a massive party platter and plenty of ranch, and head back to your porch. If you need reliable, spicy comfort food to fuel your Dewey weekend, this is a great choice.

Woody's has built a serious reputation for crab cakes that live up to every bit of the hype. This isn't just a restaurant; it is a destination for seafood lovers who appreciate the real deal. The Menu: The star of the show is the lump crab cake. It is practically held together by willpower and Old Bay, with zero breading getting in the way of the meat. But do not sleep on the drink menu - specifically the Orange Crush milkshake. It is a creamy, dangerous twist on the classic Dewey cocktail that you didn't know you needed until now. Year-Round: One of the best things about Woody's is that they keep the lights on when the rest of the town goes dark. Even in the quiet months, this remains the go-to sanctuary for locals. It's friendly, loud, and feels exactly like a beach bar should, whether it is mid-July or mid-January. Be prepared to wait during peak hours, because the secret is definitely out. If you want a quintessential Dewey dining experience without the white tablecloth attitude, grab a stool here and dig in.

Starboard Claw brings a classic crab house vibe right to Highway One. Located in the lively stretch near the main Starboard, this spot is all about cracking claws and cold drinks. It fits perfectly into that lively stretch between the main Starboard and Starboard Sauced, giving you yet another reason to never leave the block. Leave your white shirts at home because it's time to get messy. This spot is all about hands-on dining. They specialize in massive seafood boils and piles of hard-shell crabs that demand your full attention. It delivers that high-energy Starboard atmosphere you love but focuses squarely on the freshest catches from the Atlantic and the bay. Insider Tip: Come hungry and bring a crew. The seafood boils are the main event here, designed for sharing and soaking up the scene. It is the perfect pivot point if you want a serious meal before heading next door for late-night music. When the craving for cracking claws hits, this is your destination. It combines the service and reliability of The Starboard Group with the specific satisfaction of a summer crab feast. If you want a classic Dewey dinner experience without venturing off the main drag, grab a mallet and a table at the Claw.

This is one of the best spots to watch the sun go down. Seriously, the sunsets here are legendary. Sitting right on the bay at the end of Dickinson Street, The Lighthouse has risen from the ashes - literally - to reclaim its spot as a favorite waterfront hangout. While the building is shiny and new from the 2021 rebuild, the soul of this place goes back over 40 years. The Vibe: It is the definition of bayside chill. You have got a massive outdoor patio that practically touches the water, making it the ideal spot to nurse an Orange Crush while the sky turns purple. It is now part of the Lighthouse Cove development near the Hyatt Place, but do not worry - it has kept that laid-back Dewey energy you love. Hungry after a day on the beach? You are in the right spot for casual seafood and beach eats. Longtime locals know this spot as the original home of the Taco Toss, and they still keep the fiesta going with killer taco nights. It is the kind of menu that pairs perfectly with a cold beer and a warm breeze off Rehoboth Bay. Don't Miss: If you want a front-row seat to the best nature show in Delaware, grab a table here about an hour before dusk. It is one of the most photogenic happy hours in town.

Located right on Highway One, Franco's Pizza & Pasta is that classic, reliable pizza joint that has been fueling Dewey Beach vacations for years. It's the kind of place where you can grab a quick slice while walking between bars or order a stack of pies when the whole rental house is starving. The Menu: They cover all the Italian-American bases here. Traditional round pies, thick square Sicilian pizzas, and a solid lineup of gourmet options. If you aren't feeling pizza, their hot subs and pasta dishes are surprisingly hearty. It's comfort food central without the fuss. Late Night Savior: Franco's stays open until 2 AM daily. Whether you're wrapping up a night out or just hanging on the balcony, this is your go-to for late-night sustenance. They offer delivery through multiple platforms, so you don't even have to leave the AC. If you need a late-night fix or a hassle-free dinner delivered to your door, this is a great choice.

Don't let the name fool you. There are no greens fees or dress codes at the Dewey Beach Country Club. Located right on Coastal Highway, this laid-back bar and grill runs on the legendary motto: "Where membership has no advantages." It is refreshing, unpretentious, and a great spot to grab a drink in town. The Country Club offers a chill atmosphere where the staff is genuinely friendly and the prices are reasonable. It's the kind of place where you can hear yourself think - and hear your friends laugh. Game Time: Need to watch the game? They have tons of TVs and are a solid bet for sports viewing when you want to avoid the chaos. They've also got video games and Golden Tee machines ready for a tournament with your crew. Dog-Friendly Patio: The outdoor seating area is spacious and perfect for people-watching along Route 1 on a sunny afternoon. It's also very welcoming to four-legged friends, so you don't have to leave your pup at home to grab a burger. If you're looking for a low-key hang that doesn't take itself too seriously, you've found your clubhouse.

If you catch the scent of savory fried chicken wafting down Coastal Highway, follow your nose - it's leading you straight to Jimmy's Grille. Located right on the main drag at 1911 Coastal Hwy, this spot is a tribute to Eastern Shore comfort food in the heart of Dewey. The Main Event: The fried chicken is legendary around town and exactly the kind of "stick to your ribs" meal you need after a long day baking on the beach or a late night out. They specialize in homestyle cooking that feels like a family dinner, just with way more energy. The Vibe: As part of the Highway One family (cousins with the Rusty Rudder and Bottle & Cork), Jimmy's knows how to keep the energy up. The outdoor patio is a prime spot for people-watching on Route 1. You can grab a drink, settle in for some live entertainment, and watch the crowds buzz by on the strip. If you need a break from seafood and want some solid, down-home cooking in a lively setting, this is a great choice.

Located right in Surfside Plaza on Highway One, this a great pit stop when you want something substantial but light. You walk in, grab a signature acai or fruit bowl loaded with fresh toppings, and you are back out the door in minutes. If you are looking for a guilt-free way to start your morning or a refreshing reset button after a big night out, this is your new go-to headquarters.

While it is a franchise, Rita's feels essential to the Dewey strip experience. You are here for two things: Italian ice made fresh daily and that rich frozen custard. If you need a quick sugar fix without the sit-down restaurant commitment, this is a great stop.

The Rudder is a bayfront restaurant and bar that's famous for two things: its huge all-you-can-eat seafood buffets, and its massive bayfront deck with live music. Having a sunset dinner of crabs and shrimp on the Rudder's deck is a Dewey tradition for many families. And at night, especially in summer, the Rudder's outdoor stage features bands 7 days a week. It's not unusual for the Rudder deck to turn into a dance party under the stars. You'll see folks in flip-flops grabbing Painkiller cocktails at the Tiki bar, kids dancing with glow sticks, and maybe even some people arriving by boat (they have docks for patrons). If you're here mid-week, the Rudder often hosts beach music or reggae nights to keep the party going even on a Tuesday. If you like oysters and crushes with a view, the Rudder's outdoor raw bar (when open) is fantastic at happy hour. It's the kind of place you can start at for dinner and still be there 4 hours later grooving to a band, with the moon reflecting off the bay. Insider Tip: Sunday afternoons on the Rudder deck often feature popular local bands - it's a great way to end the weekend.

If you're walking down Highway One looking for McShea's, don't worry - you haven't lost your mind. The spot at 1705 Coastal Highway has been reborn as Surfside Bar & Grill. While the name on the sign is new, the location in the Dewey Beach Country Club building remains a staple for anyone cruising the main drag. Insider Note: This isn't just some random takeover. Tom Simpson, a longtime former employee who knows exactly how this town operates, bought the place and gave it a serious renovation. It's a classic Dewey success story - keeping it in the family while freshening up the experience. You get a cleaner, updated interior with the same local heart. The menu focuses on exactly what you want after a day in the sun: solid comfort food and cold drinks. It's casual, approachable, and sits right on the strip, making it an easy pit stop whether you're walking from the beach or hopping off the Jolly Trolley nearby. If you want a relaxed meal where you can check out the new digs but still feel like a regular, Surfside is a great choice.

If you take your beer seriously, make sure this is on your list. While Dewey is famous for Orange Crushes and light beer buckets, Dewey Beer Company brings serious craft game to the table. Located at the south end of the Highway One strip, this spot has exploded from a local secret to a nationally recognized powerhouse. It’s the perfect break from the typical beach bar scene. The tap list here changes fast, but you can always count on two things: incredible IPAs and mind-bending fruited sours. These aren't your average brews. They are known for thick, flavorful smoothie-style sours that taste like fresh fruit in a glass. The Vibe: Industrial-chic meeting beach chill. The garage doors roll up to let in that salt air, making it a great spot to cool off after a day on the sand. Before you leave, check the fridge by the door. They usually have 4-packs to go, which makes you the hero of any hotel room pre-game or sunset watch on the bay. If you want a pint that actually tastes like something, this is a great spot.

Welcome to the bay. Located right where McKinley Street meets the water, Northbeach has made a massive comeback. If you remember the old days, prepare to be surprised - this spot has been totally resurrected and renovated into a sleek, upscale-casual destination that still knows how to throw a party. Come hungry, stay thirsty. The menu here isn't your standard beach fryer fare. We're talking creative coastal cuisine paired with some serious craft cocktails. It's the perfect spot to grab a table by the water, watch the sun dip below the horizon on Rehoboth Bay, and enjoy a dinner that actually feels like a night out. The schedule is stacked. Northbeach brings the heat on the weekends with a lineup that keeps the town buzzing. Don't Miss: The legendary Pizza Toss Fridays where you can snag free pizza to kick off your weekend. Saturdays turn into a full-blown pool party, and the Sunday Funday brunch is basically a Dewey rite of passage. If you like live music with a view, this is where you want to be. Your go-to for bayside energy. If you want a great Saturday afternoon by the pool or a solid dinner with a view, Northbeach delivers. It’s got that classic Dewey energy with a polished new look. Grab a drink, find a spot near the water, and let the bay breeze do the rest.