From Annapolis to Rehoboth Beach, we pass along the culinary gems worth checking out this summer after a day in the sun.
PHOTO BY MADS ENEQVIST/UNSPLASH
Henlopen City Oyster House
Situated two blocks from the beach, this local favorite is known for its regionally sourced seafood options. Must-try menu items include the oyster sampler, consisting of eight varieties of Delaware oysters, as well as the jerk-grilled, North Carolina mahi-mahi topped with strawberry-saba relish. 50 Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Del., 302.260.9193, hcoysterhouse.com
The Cultured Pearl Restaurant & Sushi Bar
This award-winning sushi bar specializes in Japanese fare and fusion cuisines, providing traditional dishes, such as shrimp tempura and Asian street noodles consisting of chilled ramen topped with a Vietnamese vinaigrette, herbs and peanuts. The sushi bar offers signature maki rolls, such as the Dragon, a California roll draped with eel. 301 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Del., 302.227.8493, culturedpearl.us
La Fable
Inspired by Eloise in Paris, this French bistro transports its guests to Paris with its elegant gold and white decor. The menu includes an ample list of hors d’oeuvres, such as escargot prepared in a savory garlic-herb butter sauce. French cuisine options include beef bourguignon served with mashed potatoes, mushrooms and pearl onions; as well as poulet cordon bleu, a fried chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto and Gruyere and served over whipped fingerlings and a bed of mixed vegetables. 26 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Del., 302.227.8510, bonjourfable.com
99 Sea Level Restaurant & Raw Bar
Located in Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn, 99 Sea Level provides stunning oceanfront views along with an evolving menu that emphasizes local flavors. Executive chef Paul Hajewski focuses on healthy proteins, which he sources from nearby fisheries, farms and orchards. The menu features an array of nautical dishes, such as wasabi pea-crusted yellowfin tuna served over wilted spinach and black rice. 99 Hollywood St., Bethany Beach, Del., 302.539.0299, 99sealevel.com
Iron Rooster
Located in the heart of downtown Annapolis, this two-story rustic farmhouse is known for its all-day breakfast menu and gorgeous views of the water. The menu adds a Southern twist on breakfast classics, such as pancakes plated with buttermilk fried chicken and drenched in spiced maple bourbon butter. Save some room for a RoosTart (the Iron Rooster’s take on the classic Pop-Tart), which is made fresh daily in three different flavors—brown butter, mixed berry and the surprise flavor of the day. 2 Market Space, Annapolis, 410.990.1600, ironroosterallday.com
Severn Inn
Located just east of the Naval Academy Bridge, this waterfront eatery offers sweeping views of the Severn River. For appetizers, we love the oysters paired with citrus mignonette and cocktail sauce, and don’t overlook the brisket nachos decked out with jalapeño queso and cotija cheese. Entrees not to miss include crabcakes served with fried green tomatoes, corn salsa and slaw, and the standout shrimp Baja burrito. 1993 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Annapolis, 410.349.4000, severninn.com
Sam’s on the Waterfront
Owner and creator Andrew Parks crafts a sustainably sourced, seasonal menu dedicated to lowering the restaurant’s carbon footprint. Located on the Chesapeake Harbor, the menu features standouts like filet mignon dressed in a mushroom red wine demi-glace and paired with fingerling potatoes. 2020 Chesapeake Harbour Drive, Annapolis, 410.263.3600, samsonthewaterfront.com
Photography by: Mads Eneqvist/Unsplash
