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FeedDining Out(side)
Ahhh, the music of wavelets lapping a bulkhead, the reflection of city lights on a still river, the sound of crickets in the night. Could there be anything better than dining en plein air? Herein, alfresco for foodies.
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The Rusty Rudder
The sights and sounds—Misty May wannabees spiking volleyballs to the strains of calypso music in the afternoon—are unique to outdoor dining at Rusty Rudder. Before the Dewey party begins to rage, the bayside deck is a pretty great place to spend a late afternoon with a cold coconut crush and a burger. Walk up or boat in. Linger too long on Thursday and you’ll find yourself partying with Love Seed Mama Jump and its minions. 113 Dickinson St., Dewey Beach, 227-3888
Sovana Bistro
A patio hides in the back of an upscale strip mall, but a large pine tree and two wooden fences diminish the hum of automobiles. The space is appointed with a rusty black iron door and an old wooden hutch that holds wine glasses. Six wrought iron café tables covered with tan or black umbrellas sit atop a stone floor, and the patio’s perimeter is landscaped beautifully. Locally grown food is the star. Appetizers such as roasted beets with blue cheese are excellent. 696 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, (610) 444-5600
Seacrets
The forest of palms and thatched-roof bars say secluded island, though you’re only a block away from busy Coastal Highway. Dig your toes into the sand while you sink your teeth into a jerk chicken cheesesteak or delicious crab cake. After your meal, wade your rum runner out to an inner tube offshore, where you can soak your piggies in the placid bay while you ride out your food coma. 49th Street and the Bay, Ocean City, Md., (410)-524-4496
Toscana Kitchen + Bar
The burbling of the fountain, tucked into a corner of The Rockford Shoppes in Trolley Square, soothes anyone in need of a pleasant night out and a great meal. Start with fried calamari or grilled octopus. Share a Gorgonzola-fig pizzette baked in the kitchen’s wood-fired oven. Save room for a dish of homemade pasta or braised duck. Don’t forget the wine. There’s a special list of 20 bottles for $20 each on Sundays. 1412 N. Dupont St., Wilmington, 654-8001
Victoria’s Restaurant
Rise with the sun for a short stack of buttermilk pancakes and a mimosa on the boardwalk. Start dinner with the signature cream of crab soup. (It’s part of the four-course $29 prix fixe special, if you arrive early.) Tables under the black trellises—among the most romantic seats in the state—are highly coveted. Boardwalk Plaza Hotel, Olive Avenue and the Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach, 227-0615
Woody’s Crab House
Two outdoor areas outline Woody’s, which specializes in steamed blue crabs and crab cakes. In front is a charming, laidback section of umbrella-covered tables on Main Street. Out back is a lively South Florida-style tiki bar with seating for 140. The area is tented and outfitted with a full bar and live entertainment. 29 S. Main St., North East, Md., (410) 287-3541
