Downtown Wilmington, DE – An Underrated Cultural and Culinary Gem

Let me let you in on 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 in 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 in 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 or Washington D.C. It’s easy to navigate and we easily found garage parking at a fair price for our several night stay. 

While Wilmington is rich in history, there’s a revitalization happening here with an influx of creative, fresh energy full of fun things to do and unique places to go – like a boutique hotel with a speakeasy that was once a storage room for gold bars and a restaurant that offers duck-pin bowling. 

In recent years, Wilmington has quietly blossomed into a low-key foodie mecca. Exploring its culinary scene was at the top of my agenda. From quick bites and innovative small plates to classic Mediterranean and brasserie dishes served in charmingly renovated historic settings, as well as gourmet food halls, we enjoyed some incredible food here. Whether you prefer a large full-service hotel or 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’re hooked on Wilmington.

Here’s where we stayed, dined and explored on our recent staycation in Wilmington, Delaware! 

The Quoin – A Boutique Luxury Hotel in the Heart of Downtown

The Quoin Hotel
519 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801 

With its grand opening in September of 2022, The Quoin Hotel, gave the city of Wilmington something it never had before – a luxury boutique hotel. In addition to 24 guest rooms, The Quoin also has a restaurant, an underground speakeasy style lounge, and Wilmington’s only rooftop bar.

We booked a one night stay to see what all the buzz was about. 

Wondering about the name? It’s a fun play on words.

A “quoin” is an architectural term for a type of masonry block placed at the outside corners of building walls for strength or aesthetic detail. You’ve seen them even if you don’t realize it.

The Quoin happens to sit on a quiet corner at North Market and 6th Street in a stunning restored brownstone. 

Designed by famous Philadelphia architect Frank Furness, it was originally built as a bank for The Security Trust and Safe Deposit Company in 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. In fact, you can still spot one of the building’s original deposit slots on 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 chic 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 on tranquility and style. 

Verdict: The Quoin’s design is gorgeous – and it works.

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 on 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 in the lobby
• A 24 hour fitness center to work it all off.

The Quoin doesn’t serve a full breakfast, but the complimentary morning coffee served in the lobby was delicious and the freshly baked chocolate chip muffins were a real treat.

The Quoin Restaurant Serves up Modern Mediterranean Flavors

Serving lunch, dinner, Happy Hour and weekend brunch on the main level of the hotel, The Quoin Restaurant offers a contemporary menu that blends the flavors of Southern French, Northern Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Some with wood-fired flare. The menu also includes a variety of small plates, vegetarian and gluten-free options. 

To start we tried the crispy and doughy Pizza 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. 

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 finish. 
• 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 bar on the penthouse level or down to their Simmer Down lounge for an after dinner drink.

Ride Up to the Penthouse Level of The Quoin For Wilmington’s Only Rooftop Lounge

Open to the public, The Quoin’s chic Rooftop Lounge is the only rooftop bar in the city. Sit outside for sunset views that overlook the city and the steeple of the Old Town Hall. If it’s chilly, go inside by the bar and cozy up by the fireplace to relax with one of their delicious craft cocktails or small plates. If you’re staying at the hotel, you can use the rooftop lounge for your workspace during the day. 

Go Underground to the Simmer Down Cocktail Bar and Lounge to Hang Where Gold Bars Were Once Stored

The Simmer Down Cocktail Bar and Lounge at The Quoin is located in the building’s old vault on the lowest level of the hotel. 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 on classic cocktails in a luxurious and truly unique space.

Between its great location, soothing and luxurious accommodations, picture-perfect rooftop lounge, great dining, and this chic and chill luxury boutique hotel with effortless sophistication is worth a stay.

More Places to Explore & Dine Near The Quoin

The Quoin’s location in the heart of downtown is perfect for exploring some of Wilmington’s treasures. 

The hotel is also across the street from Old Town Hall, 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 Fare at Bardea Food & Drink

Bardea Food & Drink
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 Executive 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. 

Some of our favorite dishes on our recent trip were the savory and satisfying Barbacoa Tacos with a spiced beef cheek, mole 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 crema, mint chimichurri, and strawberry mostarda. For texture and more flavor they’re finished with a dusting of dukka – a crunchy Middle Eastern blend of nuts, seeds, and warm spices.

If you love pasta, 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 baby tomatoes over a luscious pistachio crema and shaved Parmesan.  

For something simpler, the Margherita DOP Pizza topped with fior di latte mozzarella, crushed Naples grown Piennolo tomatoes, fresh basil, EVOO and blazed in their own wood-fired pizza oven was  light and perfectly airy. If you order it,  be sure to pair it with one of their lovely wines or craft cocktails from the bar.

While Bardea makes even pizza an elevated experience, the atmosphere here is modern rustic, casual, relaxed and friendly. The service is incredible and if you’re a foodie add it to your must-visit list.

Chelsea Tavern
821 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801

For a more casual dining option on 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 on pub-style food including burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. 

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 jack 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 on the side.

TVs throughout the restaurant make it a great spot to catch a game, but when the weather’s nice, sit outside and enjoy one of their 33 rotating beers on tap. 

Historic HOTEL DU PONT – A European-Inspired Masterpiece

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 Hotel du Pont on 11th and Market Street in the heart of Wilmington’s financial and legal district. 

Originally the headquarters for the DuPont Company, Hotel Du Pont has been known for their world-class service and luxurious amenities for more than a century.

In contrast to the intimate luxury of The Quoin, nothing in the twelve-story Italian Renaissance style Hotel Du Pont is understated. In addition to 217 luxuriously modern guest rooms, on the property you’ll also find their new signature restaurant Le Cavalier, The Green Room Bar, and DeCo, a modern urban food hall. 

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 alone. 

And it’s worth booking one of their 217 luxuriously modern guest rooms for at least one night, to experience this historic hotel. 

We stayed in a traditionally elegant King Suite with 1200+ square feet and beautiful views of historic Rodney Square and the city.  The large open concept living room was perfect for spreading our wings. Here you can cozy up on the couch and watch a movie on the flat screen TV. And the dining area was perfect for ordering up room service in style.

There wasn’t an inch of our suite without a luxurious or thoughtful touch for comfort or indulgence.  And it had all the modern amenities you would need in the city including a mini fridge, coffee station and safes for personal belongings. 

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 in shower and luxury towels. There was even a bidet.

A few other amenities the Hotel 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 fitness center

 💡 Historic Hotel Fact: You never know who’s going to walk through the Hotel Du Pont’s door! Rumor has it that Prince Rainier III of Monaco negotiated his marriage to Grace Kelly at the hotel in 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 in Style at Le Cavalier -The Hotel Du Pont’s Modern Brasserie

Le Cavalier at the Green 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 Green Room, known as “Le Cav” to locals, which serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. 

Le Cavalier, meaning “the rider” in French (referring to horses), underwent a renovation in 2019, transforming from its previous identity as The Green 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 bar here has been one of the city’s most iconic meeting 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 in 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 menu featuring a modern French brasserie and Mediterranean specialties with a focus on local ingredients. North African flavors make an appearance too. The menu is seasonally and locally inspired, changing frequently.

We started with the rich and creamy Provençal Hummus. For a delightful French twist on the classic chickpea dip, Chef Akin’s version is blended with gently roasted Mediterranean veggies topped with fresh fava 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 on the side for scooping.

For the luxury of eating lobster without having to do any work, we ordered the supremely rich Butter Poached Lobster in 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. 

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 on 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. 

For a dessert that’s visually stunning and delicious, try Le Cavalier’s deconstructed take on an Ice Cream Sandwich. Thin waffle-style gaufrette 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 fare, Le Cav alone 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 Casual Bites in a 13,000 Square Foot Modern Food Hall 

DE.CO Wilmington (@ Hotel Du Pont)
111 W 10th St, Wilmington, DE 19801

For something quick and delicious, walk past the lobby of the Hotel Dupont through the Dupont Building and you’ll find yourself in the connected DE.CO Wilmington eatery. Branded as “a launchpad for chefs and a haven for eaters”, DE.CO is a modern gourmet food hall on the south side of the hotel 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 Pizza, Al Chu’s sushi and more. For freshly brewed gourmet coffee and fresh pastries check out Spark’d, which is run by the Hotel Du Pont.

There’s also an atrium bar with a lounging area serving cocktails, local craft beers, and wine.

For a casual lunch one afternoon we tried the delicious Birria Tacos from Taqueria El Chingon with melt in your mouth braised beef, Oaxaca cheese and a side of rich consommé 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 in the mix. Served with housemade soy sauce it was the perfect complement to the birria. The food combinations are endless here.

DE.CO is open Monday through Saturday and hours vary by vendor. And in addition to great food, DE.CO hosts regular events like their local Artisan Market on Saturdays with brunch specials and live music on 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

Wilma’s
900 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801

Just one block from the Hotel Dupont, Wilma’s is a unique spot that blends an adult indoor playground with a modern restaurant and bar serving up classic and creative New Orleans-inspired fare. As soon as we stepped inside this nostalgic-yet-trendy space, we became instant fans. 

The fun starts with the vintage video 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 down 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’re bowling or sit down in Wilma’s dining section or at the bar. Come hungry because the portions are generous. We LOVE Cajun and creole cuisine and Wilma’s didn’t disappoint. 

The Shrimp and Grits was a winning dish here with plump blackened jumbo 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 in a spicy tomato broth seasoned with mildly spicy espelette peppers transported us to its namesake.

For a sweet finish, don’t miss 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 on Sunday. If you’re planning on bowling, consider calling ahead or go to their website to reserve a lane to make sure you get a spot. 

 💡 Wilma’s Bonus: Street parking is available on the surrounding blocks around Wilma’s, but they also provide customers with free parking in the Midtown Parking Garage (804 N. Orange St.). Scan the QR Code when you enter, put in your information then visit the host stand and they’ll validate 3 hours of free parking.

More Things to Do in 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 core 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 in and around Wilmington.

The Wilmington Riverfront and Riverwalk 

The Wilmington Riverfront was named by Fodor’s Travel as one of the Top 15 Best River Walks in 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 Golf Course.  For time on the water, hop aboard one of the Wilmington river cruises leaving from the dock.

When you’re 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 or jog onto the paved and boardwalk lined 7.9 mile Jack 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 or at Riverwalk Mini Golf.

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 Hotel Du Pont and Delaware’s only zoo, The Brandywine Zoo is a small 4.7 acre zoo operated by Delaware State Parks in Brandywine Park. A member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, it’s one of over 250 accredited zoos and aquariums in 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, big cats, reptiles, and Andean condors. The Brandywine Zoo is open 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 on 235 acres of wooded rolling hills along Brandywine River, here you can discover the original gunpowder factory founded by E.I. Dupont in 1802, hundreds of stone ruins, dozens of restored buildings and tour Eleutherian Mills, the first du Pont family home and gardens built in America. Their brand-new Nation of Inventors exhibit features incredible stories of American innovation.

Wrapping Up Our Wilmington Experience

Wilmington, Delaware may not be at the top 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 happening here. New businesses like the luxurious Quoin Hotel and innovative restaurants are breathing fresh life into Wilmington’s historic core. Yet the city still retains its old-world charm and you’re surrounded by beautifully preserved architecture at every turn.

Whether you come for a weekend getaway focused on wining & dining, or 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 fare at Bardea to the modern French brasserie cuisine at Le Cavalier. And being able to experience both a chic boutique hotel and iconic hotel like the Hotel Du Pont on the same trip was a treat.

So don’t overlook Wilmington! This little city definitely has its own delightful personality and unique mix 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!

Source