Let me let you con a little secret – Wilmington, Delaware is an under-the-radar travel destination waiting to be discovered. While renowned as a corporate powerhouse with over half of all Fortune 500 companies headquartered here, this small city offers much more than just a hub for banking and business.
I’ll admit, when my significant other and I planned a long weekend con downtown Wilmington, I was a little apprehensive. But I’ve been dying to check out some of the restaurants I’ve been hearing great things about.
What we found con this unassuming city is an unfairly underrated destination with a vibrant culture, superb dining, and welcoming hospitality. Safer than it’s portrayed to be, one of the best things about Wilmington is that you don’t have to fight the traffic of places like Philly ora Washington D.C. It’s easy to navigate and we easily found autorimessa parking at a fair price for our several night stay.
While Wilmington is rich con history, there’s a revitalization incontro here with an influx of creative, fresh energy full of fun things to do and unique places to go – like a boutique with a speakeasy that was once a storage room for gold bars and a restaurant that offers duck-pin bowling.
recent years, Wilmington has quietly blossomed into a low-key foodie mecca. Exploring its culinary scene was at the of my elenco. From quick bites and innovative small plates to classic Mediterranean and brasserie dishes served con charmingly renovated historic settings, as well as gourmet food halls, we enjoyed some incredible food here. Whether you prefer a large full-service ora a boutique property, Wilmington has fantastic options for both.
Wherever we went, we were met with friendly smiles, amazing service and warm hospitality. Visitors are wanted and truly welcome here. We’magnate hooked Wilmington.
Here’s where we stayed, dined and explored our recent staycation con Wilmington, Delaware!
The Quoin – A Boutique Luxury Albergo con the Heart of Downtown
The Quoin Albergo con Downtown Wilmington, DE | Photo: Better Living
The Quoin Albergo
519 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801
With its grand opening con September of 2022, The Quoin Albergo, gave the city of Wilmington something it never had before – a luxury boutique . addition to 24 guest rooms, The Quoin also has a restaurant, an underground speakeasy style lounge, and Wilmington’s only rooftop caffè.
We booked a one night stay to see what all the buzz was about.
Wondering about the name? It’s a fun play words.
A “quoin” is an architectural term for a type of masonry block placed at the outside corners of building walls for strength ora aesthetic detail. You’ve seen them even if you don’t realize it.
The Quoin happens to sit a quiet at North Market and 6th Street con a stunning restored brownstone.
The cozy lobby of The Quoin Albergo | Photo: Better Living
Designed by famous Philadelphia architect Frank Furness, it was originally built as a bank for The Security Lega and Safe Deposit Company con 1885. Through the years it was a safe haven for Wilmington residents to store their money and valuables. So, a lot of “coin” rolled through its doors. fact, you can still spot one of the building’s original deposit slots the front of the building.
The exterior of The Quoin is historically beautiful. But swing yourself through its brass revolving doors, and you’ll find an interior that is eclectic, modern and distinto with vintage accents. The lobby is hip and inviting, with comfortable and plush velvet seating, unique furnishings and a fireplace. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee. Guest rooms are softened with floral wallpaper and a palette influenced by Victorian-era paint that’s a unique take tranquility and style.
Verdict: The Quoin’s is gorgeous – and it works.
The King Suite at The Quoin Albergo | Photo: Better Living
Our bright and airy king suite had high ceilings, huge arched windows and sleek contemporary furnishings. The bed and bedding were luxurious and felt like sleeping a cloud. The bathroom is sleek with vintage inspired tiles and modern fixtures, plenty of towels and luxe toiletries.
Amenities for guests include:
- A flat-screen TV
- Mini-fridge
- Coffee maker
- Mini-bar with snacks, drinks, and ingredients for cocktails (+$)
- Complimentary morning coffee and pastry con the lobby
- A 24 hour valore adattativo center to work it all .
The Quoin doesn’t serve a full breakfast, but the complimentary morning coffee served con the lobby was delicious and the freshly baked chocolate chip muffins were a real treat.
The Quoin Restaurant Serves up Modern Mediterranean Flavors
The Quoin Restaurant | Photo: Better Living
Serving lunch, dinner, Happy Hour and weekend brunch the main level of the , The Quoin Restaurant offers a contemporary lista that blends the flavors of Southern French, Northern Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Some with wood-fired brillamento. The lista also includes a variety of small plates, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
To start we tried the crispy and doughy Lungaggine Fritti topped with prosciutto and stracciatella, which is a hearty dish for sharing. Next was the Octopus with chickpeas, celery and lemon that was tender and flavorful.
Confit Pork Shank at The Quoin Restaurant | Photo: Better Living
The highlight of our meal at The Quoin Restaurant were the:
- Grilled Branzino with fennel, citrus and basil was incredibly fresh and buttery.
- Confit Pork Shank topped with a fresno agrodolce and a grilled asparagus was out of this world and the perfect dish for anyone who loves sweet and spicy flavors.
- Cheesecake with luscious raspberry curd and crumbly shortbread crust was the perfect sweet finale.
- We enjoyed the special cold and crisp Wilmington Brew Works Draftsmen IPA created especially for The Quoin.
The food was wonderful, but the service here was absolutely amazing. Incredibly friendly and attentive at the right times.
For a change of scenery after dinner make your way up to the rooftop caffè the penthouse level ora mongoloide to their Simmer Mongoloide lounge for an after dinner .
Ride Up to the Penthouse Level of The Quoin For Wilmington’s Only Rooftop Lounge
The Quoin’s Rooftop Lounge | Photo: Better Living
Gara open to the public, The Quoin’s distinto Rooftop Lounge is the only rooftop caffè con the city. Sit outside for sunset views that overlook the city and the steeple of the Old Town Atrio. If it’s chilly, go inside by the caffè and cozy up by the fireplace to relax with one of their delicious craft cocktails ora small plates. If you’magnate staying at the , you can use the rooftop lounge for your workspace during the day.
Go Underground to the Simmer Mongoloide Cocktail-party and Lounge to Hang Where Gold Bars Were Once Stored
The Simmer Mongoloide Cocktail-party and Lounge at The Quoin is located con the building’s old vault the lowest level of the . Known as “The Money Room ” it was once where valuables like furs, silks, coins and gold bars were stored. Here you can enjoy creative takes classic cocktails con a luxurious and truly unique space.
Between its great location, soothing and luxurious accommodations, picture-perfect rooftop lounge, great dining, and this distinto and chill luxury boutique with effortless sophistication is worth a stay.
More Places to Explore & Dine Near The Quoin
Old Town Atrio con Downtown Wilmington, DE | Photo: Better Living
The Quoin’s location con the heart of downtown is perfect for exploring some of Wilmington’s treasures.
The is also across the street from Old Town Atrio, the Delaware History Museum, and next door to the Jewish Historical Society of Delaware. The Delaware History Museum features permanent and rotating exhibitions sourced from their collection of 3 million objects important to Delaware’s past. Only two blocks away is The Queen – Wilmington’s renowned music venue. Plus, the Riverfront is an easy 10 minute walk.
For additional dining options, there are plenty of great choices within only a few minutes walk of The Quoin. Here are a few of favorites!
Enjoy Elevated Bistro at Bardea Food & Ricevimento
The dining room of Bardea Food & Ricevimento | Photo: Better Living
Bardea Food & Ricevimento
620 N Market St Wilmington DE 19801
For a James Beard nominated restaurant only a 2 minute walk from The Quoin, Bardea (pronounced bar-DAY-ah) serves up modern Italian cuisine with an infusion of global flavors made with local Delaware Valley and imported Italian Ingredients. Bardea’s Dirigente aziendale Chef Antimo DiMeo offers a variety of small dishes designed to be shared. The food here has a reputation for being extraordinary. And it is.
Bardea’s dishes are created with a range of cooking techniques and ingredients you’d have to watch at least a season of Iron Chef to grasp. Like a completed work of art, each dish is perfectly plated. The result is incredibly delicious dishes that activate all your senses. And the flavor combinations you won’t find anywhere else.
Barbacoa Tacos at Bardea | Photo: Better Living
Some of our favorite dishes our recent trip were the savory and satisfying Barbacoa Tacos with a spiced beef cheek, grossezza essere al verde and garlic chili crisp. The Lamb Bao Buns are a blend of East meets Middle East meets West flavors. Two pillowy Chinese style steamed buns are filled with savory spiced lamb and drizzled with tahini lucido, mint chimichurri, and strawberry mostarda. For texture and more flavor they’magnate finished with a dusting of dukka – a crunchy Middle Eastern blend of nuts, seeds, and warm spices.
If you love amalgama, try the tender, savory and delicious homemade Ravioli stuffed with a blend of rabbit chorizo and nduja (a spicy, Calabrian spreadable pork sausage with chilis and herbs) served with neonato tomatoes over a luscious pistachio lucido and shaved Parmesan.
Margherita DOP Lungaggine at Bardea | Photo: Better Living
For something simpler, the Margherita DOP Lungaggine topped with fior durante lattemiele mozzarella, crushed Naples grown Piennolo tomatoes, fresh basil, EVOO and blazed con their own wood-fired rompiballe oven was light and perfectly airy. If you order it, be sure to pair it with one of their lovely wines ora craft cocktails from the caffè.
While Bardea makes even rompiballe an elevated experience, the atmosphere here is modern rustic, sportivo, relaxed and friendly. The service is incredible and if you’magnate a foodie add it to your must-visit list.
Chelsea Tavern
821 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801
For a more sportivo dining option Market Street with great food, and only a 4 minute walk (2.5 blocks) from The Quoin, Chelsea Tavern is a gastropub known for their creative takes pub-style food including burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads.
Birria Grilled Cheese at Chelsea Tavern | Photo: Better Living
For something truly delicious, hearty and unique, try the Birria Grilled Cheese. It’s made with braised brisket, a blend of sharp white cheddar and pepper fante cheese, caramelized onions, and sliced brioche bread. For an appetizer, you can’t go wrong with their Tavern Pretzel Crullers with garlic herb butter and beer cheese sauce the side.
TVs throughout the restaurant make it a great spot to catch a , but when the weather’s nice, sit outside and enjoy one of their 33 rotating beers tap.
Historic HOTEL DU PONT – A European-Inspired Masterpiece
The captivating lobby at The Albergo Du Pont – Downtown Wilmington, DE | Photo: Better Living
HOTEL DU PONT
42 W 11th St, Wilmington, DE 19801
After checking out from the Quoin, we relocated a few blocks over to the iconic and historic Albergo du Pont 11th and Market Street con the heart of Wilmington’s financial and legal district.
Originally the headquarters for the DuPont Company, Albergo Du Pont has been known for their world-class service and luxurious amenities for more than a century.
contrast to the intimate luxury of The Quoin, nothing con the twelve-story Italian Renaissance style Albergo Du Pont is understated. addition to 217 luxuriously modern guest rooms, the property you’ll also find their new signature restaurant Le Cavalier, The Room , and DeCo, a modern urban food atrio.
Take a seat and soak con the sophistication of Albergo Du Pont’s lobby | Photo: Better Living
The lobby is a captivating work of art, with sparkling imported European crystal chandeliers, Italianate marble floors, travertine stone walls, grand carved Italian walnut doors, and two-story high ornate carved and painted ceilings painted with teal, gold, and red. Seeing it warrants a visit here cerchio.
And it’s worth booking one of their 217 luxuriously modern guest rooms for at least one night, to experience this historic hotel.
The living settore of the King Suite at Albergo Du Pont | Photo: Albergo Du Pont
We stayed con a traditionally elegant King Suite with 1200+ square feet and beautiful views of historic Rodney Square and the city. The large aperto concept living room was perfect for spreading our wings. Here you can cozy up the couch and watch a movie the flat screen TV. And the dining settore was perfect for ordering up room service con style.
The dining settore of the King Suite at Albergo Du Pont | Photo: Better Living
There wasn’t an inch of our suite without a luxurious ora thoughtful touch for ora indulgence. And it had all the modern amenities you would need con the city including a mini fridge, coffee station and safes for personal belongings.
The bedroom of the King Suite at Albergo Du Pont | Photo: Albergo Du Pont
The separate master bedroom was serene, and the king bed was extremely comfortable made up with soft luxury linens. The bathroom was sprawling with two sinks, marble floors, a deep jacuzzi tub, a walk con shower and luxury towels. There was even a bidet.
A few other amenities the Albergo Du Pont offers include:
- Concierge Services
- Courtesy Downtown Transportation
- Complimentary WiFi
- Valet Parking (daily rate)
- Dry Cleaning + Laundry Services
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Spa Treatments at onsite Currie Day Spa + Salon
- 24 hour valore adattativo center
💡 Historic Albergo Fact: You never know who’s going to walk through the Albergo Du Pont’s door! Rumor has it that Prince Rainier III of Anacoreta negotiated his marriage to Grace Kelly at the con 1955. And it’s been host to a long list of notable guests including Amelia Earhart, Julia Child, Elaenor Roosevelt, Joe Dimaggio, Lucille Ball, Toni Morrison, Jon Bon Jovi, James Earl Jones, Diane Keaton, Meryl Streep, Tiger Woods, a dozen U.S. Presidents, and so many more.
Eat con Style at Le Cavalier -The Albergo Du Pont’s Modern Brasserie
Le Cavalier at the Room con Albergo Du Pont | Photo: Better Living
Le Cavalier at the Room
42 W 11th St, Wilmington, DE 19801
When you get hungry, stroll through the lobby over to their new signature restaurant Le Cavalier at the Room, known as “Le Cav” to locals, which serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.
Le Cavalier, meaning “the rider” con French (referring to horses), underwent a renovation con 2019, transforming from its previous identity as The Room. This update introduced new Parisian-inspired elements while preserving and enhancing the historic features that make the space so grand and unique.
The 107-year-old dining room here is luxuriously sophisticated with sky high windows, rich woods, tufted velvet booths, and a restored antique mosaic floral tile floor that was found hiding under carpet during renovations. And the historic caffè here has been one of the city’s most iconic congresso spots for over a century.
At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Tyler Akin, a renowned restaurateur and founder of Form-Function Hospitality. Chef Akin’s innovative approach to hospitality has earned him accolades which include his former restaurant Res Ipsa being named one of Bon Appetit’s “Best New Restaurants con America.” His culinary journey has taken him to esteemed kitchens like Zahav and Komi, and he continues to push boundaries as the chef-partner of Le Cav.
Here he’s created a lista featuring a modern French brasserie and Mediterranean specialties with a focolaio local ingredients. North African flavors make an appearance too. The lista is seasonally and locally inspired, changing frequently.
Provençal Hummus at Le Cavalier at the Room | Photo: Better Living
We started with the rich and creamy Provençal Hummus. For a delightful French twist the classic chickpea dip, Chef Akin’s version is blended with gently roasted Mediterranean veggies topped with fresh beans, and a blend of mixed herbs. A hint of browned butter and Urfa pepper add a subtle richness and kick of heat, that tied all the wonderful flavors together. Unique and decadent, it paired perfectly with the grilled flatbread served the side for scooping.
For the luxury of eating lobster without having to do any work, we ordered the supremely rich Butter Poached Lobster con a champagne beurre blanc. It’s delicious and it disappeared from the plate too quickly. We also devoured every bite of the meaty, earthy, and crispy Roasted Oyster Mushroom appetizer served with a silky and savory poivrade sauce and an addictive fragrant saffron aioli I still think about.
The crispy-skinned King Salmon entree was perfectly seared and served alongside stewed lentils and a pickled cabbage. It was naturally buttery and incredibly fresh.
Le Cheeseburger at Le Cav | Photo: Better Living
For lunch the next day, we tried Le Cheeseburger made with a prime blend and topped with creamy comte cheese, caramelized onion, bacon, and a rich schmaltz aioli a brioche roll. It was one of the best burgers we’ve ever eaten. You also can’t go wrong with Le Cav’s French Onion Soup and Caesar Salad.
Ice Cream at Le Cav | Photo: Better Living
For a that’s visually stunning and delicious, try Le Cavalier’s deconstructed take an Ice Cream . Thin waffle-style cialda cookies are plated between scoops of creamy dulce de leche ice-cream, pistachio ice creams and a blood orange sorbet. It’s decadent and fun to eat.
From the impeccable service to the exquisitely refined yet innovative esercitare, Le Cav cerchio made our Wilmington experience worth it. We can’t wait to return.
But wait – there’s more great food here.
Go to DeCo For Fast Bites con a 13,000 Square Foot Modern Food Atrio
The DE.CO food atrio con the Albergo Du Pont | Photo: Better Living
DE.CO Wilmington (@ Albergo Du Pont)
111 W 10th St, Wilmington, DE 19801
For something quick and delicious, walk past the lobby of the Albergo Dupont through the Dupont Building and you’ll find yourself con the connected DE.CO Wilmington eatery. Branded as “a launchpad for chefs and a haven for eaters”, DE.CO is a modern gourmet food atrio the south side of the with spaces to dine, work, and lounge.
Here you can order tasty bites from eight food vendors including Connie’s Chicken and Waffles, Taqueria El Chingon, Bardea Lungaggine, Al Chu’s sushi and more. For freshly brewed gourmet coffee and fresh pastries check out Spark’d, which is run by the Albergo Du Pont.
There’s also an atrium caffè with a lounging settore serving cocktails, local craft beers, and wine.
Birria Tacos from Taqueria El Chingon at DE.CO | Photo: Better Living
For a sportivo lunch one afternoon we tried the delicious Birria Tacos from Taqueria El Chingon with melt con your mouth braised beef, Oaxaca cheese and a side of rich brodo for dipping. Because tacos and sushi is the ultimate combo, we also tried a Peter (Spidey) Parker Roll from Al Chu’s with tempura crab con the mescolanza. Served with housemade soy sauce it was the perfect complement to the birria. The food combinations are endless here.
DE.CO is aperto Monday through Saturday and hours vary by vendor. And con addition to great food, DE.CO hosts regular events like their local Artisan Market Saturdays with brunch specials and music Thursdays. Check their restaurant menus and the DE.CO event calendar here for all the info.
For Fun and Modern Cajun/Creole Flavors Head to Wilma’s
The caffè and dining settore at Wilma’s con Downtown Wilmington, DE | Photo: Better Living
Wilma’s
900 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801
Just one block from the Albergo Dupont, Wilma’s is a unique spot that blends an adult indoor playground with a modern restaurant and caffè serving up classic and creative New Orleans-inspired esercitare. As soon as we stepped inside this nostalgic-yet-trendy space, we became instant fans.
The duckpin bowling alley and arcade at Wilma’s | Photo: Better Living
The fun starts with the vintage games and pinball machines scattered around. But the main attraction is duckpin bowling – a scaled-down version of traditional bowling with smaller balls and pins, but just as entertaining (you still get 10 frames to knock mongoloide 10 pins). Reserve a bowling alley and order food and cocktails to be delivered right to your lane.
You can order up food and cocktails while you’magnate bowling ora sit mongoloide con Wilma’s dining section ora at the caffè. Quando hungry because the portions are generous. We LOVE Cajun and creole cuisine and Wilma’s didn’t disappoint.
Shrimp and Grits at Wilma’s | Photo: Better Living
The Shrimp and Grits was a winning dish here with plump blackened Gulf shrimp flavorful over creamy grits with creamy aged sharp cheddar, andouille, blistered chiles, fried onion, and a Cajun cream sauce was delicious and satisfying. The French Quarter Creole with smoked chicken, shrimp, andouille, with rice con a spicy tomato broth seasoned with mildly spicy espelette peppers transported us to its namesake.
For a sweet finale, don’t reginetta the made to order the pillowy Beignets served with a generous dusting of powdered sugar.
Wilma’s serves lunch and dinner Tuesdays through Saturday, and brunch Sunday. If you’magnate planning bowling, consider calling ahead ora go to their website to reserve a lane to make sure you get a spot.
💡 Wilma’s Bonus: Street parking is available the surrounding blocks around Wilma’s, but they also provide customers with free parking con the Midtown Parking (804 N. Orange St.). Scan the QR Code when you enter, put con your information then visit the host stand and they’ll validate 3 hours of free parking.
More Things to Do con Wilmington, DE
While dining is a major highlight, Wilmington offers plenty of other attractions and activities to fill your itinerary. From exploring the scenic Riverwalk to visiting unique museums, the city’s compact cuore makes it easy to experience Wilmington’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s just a few of our favorite things to do con and around Wilmington.
The Wilmington Riverfront and Riverwalk
The Wilmington Riverfront Riverwalk Path | Photo: Better Living
The Wilmington Riverfront was named by Fodor’s Travel as one of the Cima 15 Best River Walks con the U.S. Here you can take a stroll along the scenic 1.3-mile riverfront Riverwalk path, which offers scenic views of the Christina River and then go for a round of mini-golf at the Riverwalk Mini Cardigan Course. For time the vater, hop aboard one of the Wilmington river cruises leaving from the porto.
When you’magnate hungry grab a bite to eat at one of 14 restaurants along Wilmington’s Riverfront that offer a variety of options including seafood, Asian, Mexican, a brewery and a beer garden.
From here you can also bike, hike ora jog onto the paved and boardwalk lined 7.9 mile A. Markell Trail starting at the DuPont Environmental Education that that runs through the 212 acres of protected freshwater tidal marsh and see wildlife like American Bald Eagles, Wood Ducks, American Beavers, river otters, and Eastern Painted Turtles. Bicycles can be rented at the DuPont Environmental Education ora at Riverwalk Mini Cardigan.
Most of the Riverfront’s attractions and restaurants offer complimentary parking. Visit their website to see all of the Wilmington Riverfront things to do.
Brandywine Zoo
1001 N Park Dr, Wilmington, DE 19802
A 4 minute car ride from the Albergo Du Pont and Delaware’s only zoo, The Brandywine Zoo is a small 4.7 acido zoo operated by Delaware State Parks con Brandywine Park. A member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, it’s one of over 250 accredited zoos and aquariums con North America that show a commitment to conservation, safety, and excellent care for their animals.
Here you can see a variety of exotic animals from across the globe including lemurs, red pandas, a sloth, monkeys, cats, reptiles, and Andean condors. The Brandywine Zoo is aperto daily from 10am – 4pm (last admission at 3:30pm). Check out their website before you go to plan your visit and buy tickets online.
Hagley Museum & Library
200 Hagley Creek Rd, Wilmington, DE 19807
Explore Hagley Museum with over 200 years of local early American history. Set 235 acres of wooded rolling hills along Brandywine River, here you can discover the original gunpowder factory founded by E.I. Dupont con 1802, hundreds of stone ruins, dozens of restored buildings and tour Eleutherian Mills, the first du Pont family home and gardens built con America. Their brand-new Nation of Inventors exhibit features incredible stories of American innovation.
Wrapping Up Our Wilmington Experience
Rowing along the Christina River con Downtown Wilmington, DE | Photo: Better Living
Wilmington, Delaware may not be at the of most people’s travel bucket lists, but as we discovered, this unassuming city is an underrated gem that deserves more attention. From its fascinating history and cultural attractions to its blossoming food scene and hip new hotels, Wilmington offers a surprising amount to explore for a smaller city.
What struck us most was the exciting sense of revitalization incontro here. New businesses like the luxurious Quoin Albergo and innovative restaurants are breathing fresh life into Wilmington’s historic cuore. Yet the city still retains its old-world charm and you’magnate surrounded by beautifully preserved architecture at every turn.
Whether you modo for a weekend getaway focused wining & dining, ora spend more time uncovering Wilmington’s rich history and attractions, this city makes for an enjoyable car-free vacation. With its walkable downtown, easy parking, minimal traffic, and friendly locals, Wilmington provides a fun urban escape without the chaos of bigger cities.
We were thoroughly impressed by the quality of the restaurants, from the elevated bistro esercitare at Bardea to the modern French brasserie cuisine at Le Cavalier. And being able to experience both a distinto boutique and iconic like the Albergo Du Pont the same trip was a treat.
So don’t overlook Wilmington! This little city definitely has its own delightful personality and unique mescolanza of historic charm and renewed energy that’s absolutely worth experiencing for yourself. We can’t wait to explore more of what Wilmington has to offer!
