Whining and Dining and Ghosts, Oh My!

I read an article that “guesstimated” 100,000 of you came to Rehoboth to watch the fireworks. And I think every one of you were on Route 1 at the same time.
About this time of the year, all the locals start whining about the traffic and the crowds and the wait at their favorite restaurants. But if we could zoom out for a moment and look at the big picture, this is why we have fabulous restaurants and things to do and beautiful beaches that get replenished because of all the money that gets spent in our small but amazing town. So tourists, I thank you. Keep on coming!

I mentioned in my last column that I would love to hear what you think of the new restaurants and you responded! James and his partner checked out Big Sissies and said, “We recommend Big Sissies as a nice place to eat that is reasonably priced. The food and service were very good; the parking sufficient, the restaurant was clean and employees were friendly and professional.” Thanks James! (Tried to go there myself but the place was packed.)

On RehobothFoodie.com, early reviews of Old Bay Steakhouse and Seafood are good. Pete’s Steak Shop is now open (in the Food Lion Center) serving specialty, rib-eye cheesesteaks. Foodie emailed me after his visit and said, “They are to die for.”

I did manage to check out two places that aren’t new to the area, but new to me. The Atlantic Seafood Grille in the Atlantic Sands Hotel has a new menu, and apparently new culinary magicians in the kitchen, because it was delish! The Tuscan Eggplant Stack was perfection on a plate; a wonderful balance of flavors with the eggplant cooked just right. The Spinach Gorgonzola Ravioli in Basil Summer Sauce was very good and the pasta was clearly homemade. Our table ordered one of each of the desserts and we practically licked the plates. And the view of the ocean and the Boardwalk is just the best! Go check them out!

Isn’t it funny how a name influences you? I wasn’t sure how I felt about the Big Chill Surf Cantina which opened up next to Liquid because I figured they catered to a young crowd that liked to surf or skateboard. Not! Honey Bunny and I went and had a great time, awesome drinks, and good food. Who knew? The bartenders and some of the patrons greeted us when we strolled in and I felt like Norm in Cheers. We’ll definitely go back because I need another watermelon crush for sure!

For 22 years, the Natural Resources Defense Council has issued a guide to water quality at vacation beaches and once again Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach got five star ratings. Only 13 of the 200 beaches tested received this award!

I’ve attended five civil unions so far this year and have several more on the calendar. If you’re looking for a very special gift you might want to check out the Wooden Indian (celebrating their 35th anniversary) or the brand new Waterford/Wedgwood/Royal Doulton outlet in Tanger Midway. Another great gift idea (and my personal favorite for clients) is a gift certificate from Rehoboth Main Street which is good at loads  of Rehoboth stores, restaurants, hotels, spas, and more.

Did you know that Lewes has a rich history of paranormal tales and is home to two of the most haunted places in Delaware? (The unknown sailors’ cemetery at the Cape May Lewes Ferry and the Cannonball House). The Lewes Historical Society offers a plethora of tours in the summertime including the Haunted Lewes Tours, museum tours, maritime tours, architectural tours, cemetery tours, and trolley tours. Happy haunting!

Deb Griffin is a real estate agent living full time at the beach with her honey bunny, Greer, and two Jack Russell terrors. Email Deb Griffin