Looking for the best restaurants in Bethany Beach?
Bethany Beach, Delaware, is a coastal town that doesn’t just offer beautiful beaches. It also has a fantastic dining scene! As someone who’s spent quite a bit of time here (we’ve been coming back to Bethany Beach almost every summer), I can tell you that there’s a wide range of great places to eat in Bethany Beach.
Bethany has something to satisfy all of your cravings, like classic beach seafood like crab cake sandwiches and incredible barbecue ribs. Here are my top 15 go-to spots in Bethany!
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15 BEST Food Spots in Bethany Beach
My top dining picks in Bethany Beach! (ranked in order of personal preference). Some of these spots are near the Bethany Beach boardwalk, others are closer to the central area.
1. Cottage Cafe
For me, no trip to Bethany Beach is complete without a visit to Cottage Cafe. It’s a beloved local gem that has been serving up hearty meals for years. It has a cozy, unpretentious vibe, and is great for a casual breakfast or lunch.
I’ve had their crab omelette more times than I can count, and it’s always delicious. It’s loaded with fresh crab meat and served with crispy home fries. I also highly recommend their crab cake sandwich and po’boy sandwich if you can catch it on the menu!
The po’boy is jam-packed with the juciest fried oysters, scallops, and mussels – it’s absolutely delicious!
And if you’re in the mood for something lighter, they also have a great selection of fresh salads.
2. Mickey’s Family Crab House
Mickey’s Family Crab House is another local favorite. I’ve been here many times, and the crab cakes are also delicious! They jam-packed them with so much crab and barely any filler.
Their fried shrimp is a local favorite, too! It’s a classic, family-friendly spot with a laid-back atmosphere (lots of people cracking open the crab with their bare hands), so come hungry and ready to enjoy some good quality seafood.
3. The Parkway Restaurant
The Parkway Restaurant is a really good spot for breakfast. Their pancakes are huge and fluffy, and you can get them topped with everything from fresh berries to chocolate chips.
The portions are so generous that you’ll definitely stay full until dinnertime!
4. Bethany Blues BBQ Pit
I looove BBQ, and if you also like barbecue, you can’t skip Bethany Blues BBQ Pit. Their pulled pork sandwich is my go-to, and their smoky mac and cheese is out of this world!
The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and they have a great selection of local beers to enjoy while you chow down.
5. Off the Hook
If you’re looking for a more upscale way to enjoy some fresh local seafood, Off the Hook is perfect. I had their seared scallops the last time I visited, and they were cooked to perfection — tender and sweet, with a beautiful sear on the outside. The portion was pretty generous too!
Their menu offers everything from sushi to grilled fish, and their cocktail list is pretty impressive. If you’re looking for a special night out and you want to get a bit fancy, Off the Hook is a good spot to enjoy the beach views.
6. Patsy’s Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for some Southern comfort food, Patsy’s Restaurant is a solid choice. They serve Key-West and Southern-inspired dishes, like fried green tomatoes, shrimp & grits, and an amazing key lime pie!
The pasta dishes here are incredible too. I always order the fried calamari here. The portions are generous, and the atmosphere is very warm and welcoming.
7. Pomodoro Pizzeria
Pomodoro Pizzeria is a nice spot for pizza in Bethany. The thin-crust pies are perfectly crispy, and they offer a wide variety of toppings.
Their Margherita pizza is my favorite! It’s simple but fantastic for a day on the beach, with fresh mozzarella and basil. You really can’t go wrong with pizza from Pomodoro Pizzeria.
8. Lili’s Place
Lili’s Place is a cozy cafe that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The avocado toast is simple but delicious, topped with a perfectly poached egg!
I also love their fresh smoothie bowls and juices – their green smoothie bowl is delicious and a great way to start your morning!
9. D B Fries
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, D B Fries has you covered. They serve up fresh, hand-cut fries topped with all kinds of tasty toppings. My personal favorite is the Old Bay fries, which are crispy and packed with Old Bay Seasoning. I also love some good sweet potato fries:
They also offer loaded fries with cheese, bacon, and ranch dressing — perfect for sharing on the beach or as a late-night snack!
10. Sunshine Crepes
Sunshine Crepes is another cute breakfast and dessert spot. I’ve had both savory and sweet crepes here, and each one is delicious.
The Nutella and banana crepe is a customer favorite (I can’t have it because I’m unfortunately allergic to nuts…), but if you’re in the mood for something savory, try the ham and cheese crepe!
11. Sedona
Sedona is one of Bethany Beach’s hidden gems for upscale dining. I had a fantastic experience here last year — their grilled tuna steak was perfectly seared and served with a zesty citrus sauce.
The wine list is excellent, and the ambiance is relaxed yet elegant. Just keep in mind, Sedona usually opens before the peak tourist season, in May, and closes in the fall.
12. Topsail Steamer
If you’re in the mood for a boil or seafood feast, Topsail Steamer is the place to be. You choose your seafood (I recommend the shrimp and crab combo), and they steam it up with Old Bay and other delicious seasonings.
The seafood comes served in a bag, and you can just dig in! It can get a bit messy but it’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy a lot of fresh seafood.
13. 14 Global
14 Global is a good spot for Asian food in Bethany. I had their Korean BBQ ribs, and they were pretty much on par with the amazing Asian food I’m used to eating in NoVa.
The ribs were tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The atmosphere is vibrant, and the menu changes seasonally, which is really nice! There’s always something fresh to try.
14. 3BB Cafe
The Belgian waffles at 3BB Cafe are divine… crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, topped with fresh berries and whipped cream. They also offer fantastic breakfast sandwiches and fresh coffee, making it the perfect spot to start your day!
3BB Cafe is open all year round, but be sure to check their website for the days they’re open (I found out the hard way that they’re closed on Tuesdays…)
15. Bethany Boathouse
If you’re looking for a place with a great view and great food, the Bethany Boathouse is a must-visit. You can’t miss this spot as you drive through Bethany, and it has a great waterfront location where you can enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails while overlooking the Indian River Bay.
The crab legs are always a hit, and they have a fantastic happy hour for those looking to unwind after a day at the beach!
Getting Around Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach is a small town, so getting around is easy. Most of the places on this list are within walking distance of the beach too!
If you’re staying a bit farther out, renting bikes is a great way to get around and explore the area. For longer trips, taxis, rideshares, and even the local trolley service are available. During peak season, parking can be a bit tricky, so walking or biking is often the most convenient option.
Where to Stay in Bethany
Something to keep in mind with these options: prices can vary throughout the year, with peak season (late May to September) being especially expensive. There are still a lot of things you can do in Bethany Beach, even in the winter months, but it’s good to plan ahead.
Budget Option
If you’re looking for an affordable option, Hotel Bethany Beach is a great choice. The rooms are simple and clean, and it’s just a short walk to the beach. Plus, you’ll get breakfast included! It’s a solid pick, especially in the off-season when prices are lower.
Mid-Range Option
For a little more comfort, consider Bethany Beach Ocean Suites. Situated right on the Boardwalk, it offers spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and is just steps from the beach. It’s ideal for families or couples looking for a more relaxed but still affordable stay.
Luxury Option
If you want something truly special, treat yourself to The Addy Sea Historic Oceanfront Inn. This charming B&B features beautifully decorated rooms, direct beach access, and standout amenities like a gourmet breakfast, afternoon teas, and unique outdoor showers. It’s the perfect place for a romantic or peaceful getaway.
FAQs: Dining in Bethany Beach
Eat where the locals eat? – Bethany Beach
Local favorites like Mickey’s Family Crab House and The Parkway Restaurant are always a safe bet for a delicious, authentic meal. These places have been around for years and are loved by locals and visitors alike.
Where to eat in Bethany
Bethany Beach offers a mix of seafood, casual dining, and upscale options. Some of my personal favorites include The Cottage Cafe and Mickey’s Crab House. Nothing says Bethany Beach like a crab cake sandwich!
Recommendations for activities and restaurants in Bethany Beach?
I recommend spending time on the beach, checking out the local shops, and taking a sunset cruise. Afterward, grab a bite at Bethany Blues BBQ Pit or Off the Hook for a delicious meal.
Final Thoughts: Dining in Bethany Beach, DE
When I think of summer, I think of seafood and Bethany Beach! Bethany is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway with great food to match.
There’s no shortage of delicious dining options in Bethany, and I hope this list of the top 15 best restaurants helps you plan a memorable trip!
Happy travels!
About the Author
Sasha is the founder of Little Happy Travels, a blog with tips and inspiration for combining work + travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle. As a business coach and remote worker, she’s spent the last few years traveling the world while helping others do the same. Follow for guides, tips, and personal stories on working from anywhere!
