Delaware may be known as the First State, but for those of us who live here, we've come to know it as the Foodie State. Though many people think that Delaware is just a stretch of I-95 or a pathway to the beach, those who know to stop and look around will find delicious culinary treasures around every order. Wilmington's Little Italy is the perfect example of a hidden gem neighborhood that will have you coming back for dinner again and again.

Every year, thousands of people visit Wilmington's Little Italy for the St. Anthony's Italian Festival.

There's so much more to see here than a week of ferris wheels, carnival games, and carousels, though! Wilmington's Little Italy is the foodie capital of Delaware.

The first sign that you've found Wilmington's Little Italy is the giant mural on the side of Fierro Cheese! Start looking for the restaurants if your stomach is already growling.

Mrs. Robino's is the oldest Italian restaurant in the state, and they've been serving up homemade meals since 1940.

Their sauce has a signature taste that Delawareans can pick out from any other they try.

Rocco's is a slightly newer establishment, but this hip Italian bar and grill is worth a visit.

Try out some of the best pizza and calzones at this neighborhood staple.

On the slightly less Italian side, Dead Presidents Pub is one of the neighborhood's best watering holes.

You'll find bar food favorites along with upscale seafood and steak dishes, plus a plethora of pints pouring at all times.

Luigi Vitrone's Pastabilities is a colorful, welcoming pasta joint that has been in the neighborhood since the 1980s.

This Italian kitchen serves up all the dishes you grew up eating - including dishes made with prosciutto and capicola.

After you've stuffed your face, pick up a dessert from the neighborhood's Sweet Somethings bakery.

This cute little shop makes Italian and American specialty cakes, cookies and desserts.

Whether you're looking for pasta, pollo, or something totally new, if you're a Delaware foodie, you'll want to return to Wilmington's Little Italy again and again!

Of course, the few restaurants mentioned above don't scratch the surface of Wilmington's Little Italy's entire dining scene. Where do you like to grab sunday dinner around here? While I love all of the spots along restaurant row and I return to them often, I do have to mention one spot just outside of the neighborhood - Scalessa's - where the meatballs alone are worth the trip.