From certain parts of Philadelphia, Wilmington is a quicker trip than many Philly suburbs. Hop on I-95 in West Philly and make it there in 35 minutes by car; on Amtrak’s Acela train from 30th Street Station, the ride can be under 20 minutes. And while
many locals have never been to the small Delaware city to the south, there’s more reason than ever to visit. Even celebs like pop star Nick Jonas are passing through Wilmington for an impromptu bite.
Long known as a business and legal center, Wilmington has been undergoing a transformation, growing its population and revitalizing its once-sleepy downtown into a destination filled with elements that make a city great: live music venues, coffee shops, beer gardens, sports venues, bike trails, and, of course, restaurants.
Between an influx of young new residents and an old-money population (this is still the land of DuPont, after all), Wilmington restaurants have a steady stream of sophisticated customers seeking Philadelphia- and New York-style dining, and the food scene has taken off. Read on for a taste of Wilmington’s best restaurants and bars, featuring family-friendly fun and casual food halls as well as high-end dining.
For this latest map refresh, we add: Blackwall Barn & Lodge and the Post. And Ciro Food & Drink has since closed. — Updated by Tierney Plumb
For all the latest Philly dining intel, subscribe to Eater Philly’s newsletter.
