Delawareans take their food seriously because we grew up with some of the best regional food in the country. Some of the most famous food in Delaware is seafood, but there are plenty of us that grew up on iconic desserts like salt water taffy, peach pie, and much more. Take a look at these 10 classic Delaware dishes… but be warned, you’ll be craving them all by the end of the list!

1. Steamed Crabs
Facebook / Sambo's Tavern
When you think of what food Delaware is known for, steamed crabs are at the top of the list. From Wilmington to Bethany, there are amazing little crab shacks all over the state. Nothing quite beats picking up a bushel for a family crab feast, though, and steaming/seasoning them yourself.
2. Fried Chicken
Flickr / J.
Fried chicken may be popular in the south, but this classic Delaware food was perfected on the Delmarva peninsula.
3. Crab Cakes
Facebook / Woody's Dewey Beach
The best crabcakes in the world can be found at Woody's in Dewey Beach! But we do all have a soft-spot for our local deli, or an Aunt that had the best no-filler recipe in the family.
4. Slippery Dumplings
Flickr / Emily Carlin
Here in Delaware, our dumplings are flat - almost like big noodles. Bisquick dumplings that are enormous and doughy just don't feel right, so we have our chicken with these slippery dumplings instead.
5. Scrapple
Flickr / Bionicgrrl
Don't question what's in it, just fry it up well-done and enjoy it with eggs for breakfast.

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6. Delaware Bay Oysters
Flickr / Partnership for the Delaware Estuary
We all know that the BEST oysters are Delaware oysters. In the summer, you can easily find them straight out of the bay at seafood markets, roadside stands, or bayfront restaurants like JP's Wharf in Bowers Beach.
7. Boardwalk fries... with vinegar.
Flickr / Wayne Thume
We don't dare ask for ketchup with boardwalk fries, this iconic Delaware food needs a big cup of Thrasher's with malt vinegar.
8. Salt Water Taffy
Facebook / Dolles Candyland
One of the most famous foods in Delaware, this gooey, sticky treat is a summertime must for Delawareans! What's your favorite flavor?
9. Peach Pie
Flickr / Eliza Brown
Peach Pie is the state dessert of Delaware, and we're always sure that this classic Delaware dish is served at summer picnics or parties. One of the best places to chow down on this iconic Delaware state food is Warren's Station, a seasonal restaurant in Sussex County.
10. The Bobbie
Facebook / Capriotti's Newark
Capriotti's most famous sandwich has become one of the best known Delaware food exports. You can even get one in Las Vegas! Plenty of local delis in Delaware have created their own version of this turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce sandwich, too.

What’s your favorite of these classic Delaware foods? We could really go for some steamed crabs right now, excuse us while we check to see if either Boondocks or the Old Mill are open for the season.

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famous food in Delaware

Jackie Ann | June 12, 2022

Where can I find the best pizza in Delaware?

Pizza may not be the most famous food in Delaware, but it’s one of the most popular foods in the country, and Delaware is home to many delicious pizzerias. Some of the best pizza in Delaware can be found in Dover at a local pizza shop called Franco’s. If you’re in the capital region, it’s an absolute must!

Are there any waterfront restaurants in Delaware?

When the weather begins to warm up, seasonal restaurants along the waterfront open up for the season, offering up delicious Delaware food with dazzling views. There’s nothing better than a meal with a view, and one of our favorite waterfront restaurants in Delaware is Banks’ Seafood Kitchen, a timeless restaurant on the Wilmington Riverfront. For oceanfront dining, you can’t beat the views at Victoria’s Restaurant. It’s located inside The Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and is one of the most charming beachfront restaurants in Delaware. After feasting on iconic Delaware foods like raw oysters and crab cakes, take a leisurely stroll along Rehoboth Beach and take in the view.

What are the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Delaware?

They say you should never judge a book by its cover, and the same theory can be applied to restaurants in Delaware. Some of the most famous food in Delaware is found in these unassuming, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and they’re worth seeking out. One of our favorites is Snappy’s Bar and Grille, a little-known Delaware restaurant serving everything from homestyle breakfasts to hearty steak dinners.

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