Live Work Play Businesses Make Eater’s 2026 Best Restaurant List
Eater’s latest Best Restaurants in Wilmington Delaware guide features three Live Work Play favorites, known for flavorful dishes, date night fun, and upscale happy hours. Wilma’s, Le Cavalier, and Bardea Food & Drink each bring something different to the local dining scene in Wilmington that make them all must visits.
Wilma’s
Four lanes of duckpin bowling, a cocktail menu worth exploring, southern-inspired food, and unique special events make Wilma’s a standout among other great options. The menu covers favorites like shrimp & grits, jambalaya, chicken and waffles, braised short rib, all served in the beautifully restored Delaware Trust Building. Wilma’s also includes one of Downtown Wilmington’s favorite happy hours, with all day specials running every Friday and Sunday. In addition to food and bowling, Wilma’s features outdoor patio seating, frequent brunch entertainment, comedy nights, and much more.
Le Cavalier
Located inside the historic HOTEL DU PONT, Le Cavalier is one of the city’s hottest spots for date night and elevated happy hours. “Le Cav” brings modern French brasserie dining to Wilmington, Delaware, with French classics like steak frites and coq au vin alongside other fresh, seasonal dishes. The eatery also has a strong bar program, with rotating drinks, French-inspired classics, and a wine selection featuring bottles from around the world.
Bardea Food & Drink
Bardea has become one of Wilmington’s most recognized dining destinations, earning national attention and a James Beard nomination along the way. The restaurant group is known for creative food, inventive libations, and a lively atmosphere that makes it a favorite for everything from dinner to drinks. Just outside, Bardea Garden gives guests another way to enjoy the restaurant, with outdoor dining, drinks, music, and events throughout the season.
Three restaurants, three distinct experiences, and three exclusive discounts to try the best dining in Wilmington, Delaware.