Bethany Diner

Very friendly staff. Food is excellent. We've NEVER had a bad meal at the Cottage Cafe. Will…read morealways return when we are in Bethany -- which is about once a month.

As you can see from my last review in January this is one of my favorite top ten restaurants for…read morehappy hour. We were here in March on a Sunday at 2 PM for happy hour at the bar with our friends. We were able to get 5 bar stools in a row. The bar area is relatively unchanged except for some new paint, however the two adjacent dining areas to the left and right of the bar were totally renovated and painted white with a much cleaner and brighter appearance. I enjoyed my usual 2 rum punches for $10 each and my usual happy hour broiled blackened flounder fish sandwich with tomato, red onion, lettuce, french fries, cole slaw and tartar sauce for $12. I opted for their hot sauce on my flounder and french fries. Bartender Andrea F. served us very well as usual. Consistency is a character of this restaurant. My total bill was $77 excluding gratuity. We agreed we will continue to return here for happy hour.

Bar

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Hot sauce

Ocean View Restaurant

4.2(176 reviews)

•$

The food and service was very good. Quickly seated and the food was great. Will be back for…read moreanother breakfast

First off, there's no Ocean View, just in case that's important to you…read more The place was cute inside and the staff was nice. Prices were higher than expected, as much as $15 or even more for some dishes. I had eggs florentine and I'd give the place five stars if my eggs were cooked. Gah! Poached eggs are not supposed to be slimy. Just no. Hubs enjoyed his food, so I just took off one point. Please. Cook your eggs. The potatoes rocked.

Chorizo bowl

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Bloody Mary

Honey's Farm Fresh Gourmet Kitchen

3.9(138 reviews)

Ordered a to go order today and it was on time and delicious!…read moreStaff is terrific, especially Erika and Dennis who I have seen here many times and have gotten to know. Very friendly and accommodating for any request, Erika even helped me carry my order to my car as my hands were full with breakfast and drinks! Above and beyond customer service The ambiance is exciting being that it is 2 old converted trains for dining and a separate restaurant too! We will be back regularly!

Unlike some other reviews, I visited yesterday with my fiancée and we had great service, and a…read moregreat meal. I ordered the crab eggs Benedict, which was phenomenal. Seriously! I always get eggs Benedict but this one was delicious. I also had the coffee and a few espresso martinis. This wasn't the first time we visited and we've had good experiences each time! If you're on the fence, I'd say just try it out for yourself

A bright, open environment with spacious tables and booths makes this a great place for breakfast.

Pancake special

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The Parkway Restaurant

4.2(103 reviews)

0.9 mi

•$$$

First, everyone in the restaurant greeted us when we walked in, it was so nice…read more The service was AMAZING! Not only our main server but the young men that supported her were incredibly helpful bringing extra butter, packing to go and clearing plates It's very difficult to find exceptional service in a seasonal town Food was delicious My peach, tomato and buffalo mozzarella salad was yummy And bountiful My main was salmon with a wonderful coconut sauce our party of six loved all of our food Thank you Parkway for a lovely evening

Excellent food! Located right in the heart of downtown Bethany just a block from the boardwalk…read more Service was amazing. Drinks were very strong. I got the Champagne Supernova.

Jumbo Lump Crabcakes On a Sweet Chilli Remoulade, Mashed Potatoes and Mixed Vegetables.

Pork chop

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Salmon with veggies and risotto

Off the Hook

4.3(773 reviews)

0.1 mi

The crusted tuna and the pot roast were delicious. Our…read morewaiter John and the chef worked with us to avoid certain food allergies and offered slight modifications to the menu that met everyone's needs. The smallish dining area offers privacy and the quietness to carry on conversations. We still look forward to going there after many years.

We came back for lunch at the bar with my son and his wife. Both my son and I had the lobster roll…read more($23 each, $46 total), which we both really enjoyed. The bill came to $102 before tip. After applying my $50 gift card letter, the final total was brought down to $52. As always, Chandra provided excellent service. On another visit, we joined my son and his wife at the bar for happy hour. I ordered the happy hour lobster roll for $26. Before gratuity, the total came out to $102, which was lowered to $52 after using my $50 gift card letter. Chandra gave us great service once again. We returned once more with my son and his wife for happy hour at the bar. For this trip, my lobster roll came with a noticeably smaller portion of lobster compared to previous times. The bill prior to tip was $109. Applying my $50 gift letter brought the balance down to $59. As usual, Chandra took great care of us. We all agreed that we'll definitely keep returning for lunch, happy hour, or dinner.

View from my barstool

TOWN DOCK CALAMARI

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Bar area in front

The Penguin

3.4(269 reviews)

0.9 mi

Food was good, average portions, but definitely overpriced. Custom omelette two slices of French…read moretoast and kids chicken tenders meal was $60

This is such a gem right by the Boardwalk at Bethany Beach. We were hungry for some brunch, and we…read morestopped by The Penguin since they had an array of options. The servers were very kind and even accommodated us to a preferred seat when they were able to. I had the tenders and toast with their Vermont maple syrup (which they sell on the side) and it was honestly delicious! The maple syrup was really good, and between the tenders and French toast, I pretty much finished it and did not feel bloated. The gluten-free tenders were really good! I am not allergic to gluten, but being that we're at the beach and eating a heavy meal, it felt nice to not feel bloated after eating a meal on the heavier side. My boyfriend got the shrimp tacos, and he said they were OK. They were not "outstanding" but he did enjoy it. He did rave about the espresso martini, he really enjoyed that. Overall, I would absolutely come back to the penguin when I visit again. Great place for a good meal!

Outside

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Patsy's Restaurant

4.2(213 reviews)

•$$$

Food Experience We…read moreordered the tuna poke, flash‑fried whole red snapper, salad with grilled shrimp, and coconut cream pie. Each dish was excellent -- fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The coconut cream pie was a standout dessert, and the seafood dishes were cooked perfectly. Atmosphere We sat at the back of the outside patio, which was pleasant in terms of seating and ambiance. However, the location had some drawbacks: The dumpster was directly behind us, and the smell carried into the dining area. Flies were present on the patio, and it seemed likely they were attracted by the dumpster rather than the breeze. 14 Global, the neighboring restaurant, had a cook who frequently exited the side door next to our table to smoke. The cigarette smoke drifted into our eating area, only 5-10 feet away. Overall Impression While the food was outstanding and the patio seating had potential, the environmental factors significantly detracted from the experience. The proximity to the dumpster and cigarette smoke made the meal less enjoyable. Recommendation I would not discourage anyone from visiting Patsy's -- the food is worth it. However, I would caution diners about the back patio seating, as the location near the dumpster and neighboring restaurant's smoking area can affect the overall dining experience.

Delicious food, cute spot, friendly hostess. Whatever you do, save room for the house-made…read moredesserts. We were told they're made personally by the owner and they were perfection!

Soft crabs of season

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Caesar don't say no to croutons. Dirty Martini by go to..bartender got it going..many different selections but went on my gin go to.

Pie

4.0(202 reviews)

From my 9 year old daughter- The pizza was delicious, but it was very cold in the restaurant, I…read morerecommend you bring a sweater. She had the cheese pizza, and said it was well balanced. The wife and I were not huge fans of the crust though. Lacked flavor and was burnt tasting. Service was amazing though, which is why we gave 4 stars.

Yum! My husband…read moreloves him some pizza and the reviews and photos are what brought us in here. Cute exterior with lights and even cuter inside, it looks like a bistro. Our server was very friendly and appeared to be hosting and waiting tables at the same time but she was pleasant and prompt. We both ordered salads - mine was the chopped and husband chose Cesar and both were a very generous portion size and super fresh and delish. I really enjoyed it. Great price too. We chose to build our own pizza with just red sauce, cheese and Italian sausage. It was out quickly, piping hot, and VERY good. My husband is from St. Louis so he likes very thin crust and very crunchy (think cracker crust) and this was cooked to crunchy (but not burnt) perfection with fresh and yummy sausage on top. We both actually really enjoyed the meal - more than our fancier date night meal the night before. I'd absolutely come back here if ever in town again. It's charming and delicious. Ample parking outside on the street and very cute and charming both inside and outside.

Atmosphere

Bruschetta

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Cosmo

Bethany Boathouse

3.7(437 reviews)

1.1 mi

Went there for the first time today. Loved it - the meal was great, the service was outstanding -…read more Bre was so friendly and helpful. Will definitely be going back.

Arrived on a Sunday night in season (July) and the wait for a table was 30 minutes. Asked if we…read morecould eat at the bar and was told Yes, so we did. I'm so glad!! I ordered an unusual wine from their list and James opened a new bottle just for me. That's great service! During our time there, we had many interactions with Tim (bar back), James (bartender) and Mike (server who has been there forever, so he says!) and they ALL were great!! The food was delicious! Generous portions, which arrived hot and beautifully presented. Definitely a 5 star experience in our opinion. Priced appropriately for the area ($120 for the 2 of us including drinks and food). Highly recommend!!

Fun looking inside seating with huge TVs

Lump Crabcakes Platter

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Boozy Milkshake

14 Global

4.3(402 reviews)

Great service, tasty food, tiny location. Trust me, you WANT a reservation for this spot, but it's…read moreworth grabbing. We sat at the bar and spent time trying a bunch of drinks and appetizers. We had Molly as our bartender who was helpful in offering up meal selections and she modified my drink and made it just like one I got to try in the Middle East! We didn't feel rushed, but the space is quite small, so arrive early and get a reservation if you can. Most parking nearby is paid parking through the city so double check or you can get a $$$ fine. The espresso martini style drink had beet shavings on top, something I have never seen before with that drink. It didn't really affect the taste, but it looked cool.

Been wanting to try this place for a while. When we came to town again, we decided it was time to…read morecheck it out. Let's start with some positives. The location is wonderful, located right in the town of Bethany. We sat outside on a nicely done patio that was relaxing and perfect for the weather. The waitress was very accommodating and well trained. She asked about allergies and made sure we had what we needed. When we did not like a dish, they did comp us, which was unexpected. The negatives unfortunately outweigh the positives as we do not intend to eat there in the future. First, it was very overpriced for a tapas place. Each tapa was about 22-25 dollars. These were not a reasonable price for tapas. We ended up leaving hungry. The food was presented very nicely, however, the food lacked in flavor and execution. The tapas all had good concepts but none were great and some were simply bad. The cauliflower was coated in something that made it taste burnt. The gnocchi were not even gnocchi and the dish lacked balance as it was super sweet. The scallops were well cooked but the mushrooms and corn had no flavor. The bison sliders were decent but the buns were hard and burnt and the slider had no sauce. The tuna crudo was probably the best one but it was very oily. Again, good concepts, just poor execution. Cocktails were upwards of 16 dollars and a glass of wine was about the same. I could walk down the street and get a drink for much less. We got other people's food twice as they have people carrying out food that aren't our server. I wish I could rate this place higher but it is not worth the money they are charging.

Things to do in Bethany Beach

Inside

Wild Boar Sliders

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16 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Laura R.

8 years ago

My family loves the variety on the menu! Breakfast is filling, consistently good, and reasonably priced. The wait staff are friendly, professional, and efficient. The salads and soups are outstanding! The salads use fresh ingredients and are big enough to take home for a second meal. I ordered the lasagna and was amazed how delicious it was! I would definitely order that again. read more

Rudy K.

6 years ago

A Classic American diner ! Great servers and the hostess is the mostest ! Fantastic breakfasts, more than you can consume, and they even have Scrapple ! Will try them next for dinner. The locals love it and it's a must stop for any Bethany Beach vacationer. read more

Kathy S.

7 years ago

My husband and myself just had dinner at Bethany Diner. I highly recommend this dinner. The Service and the food was excellent!! I had the spaghetti with meat sauce . My husband had spaghetti with meatballs. read more

Lee S.

10 years ago

Great breakfast option at the beach. Open year round, even on Christmas Day. Opens early (6am) so really good option for early rising kids when most places at the beach are still closed. read more

Frank B.

8 years ago

Wonderful food and all the servers very nice. The hostess at the door has a great personality and always takes care of her patrons. The menu has a great variety and free parking. read more

StarWars G.

8 years ago

Good food and good service. Food is good for a diner and is mostly clean. The boys bathroom is disgusting. Mostly good but they dont have five stars because of the bathroom. read more

Donna L.

7 years ago

Excellent food, it's understandable that there is usually a wait for a table. Food is reasonably priced and service is great! read more

D B.

9 years ago

Great breakfast specials, meal was perfect, service was fast and friendly. Very happy we tried it, we'll be back!

don p.

2 years ago

Started a 3% fee for card usage...................... Disappointing................................ ......... read more

Dan S.

11 years ago

Huge portions. Big menu. Good service. Good for breakfast, lunch and dinner. BIG portions. Good prices.

Kelley B.

9 years ago

Four stars for the breakfast, which is served all day. The lunch and dinner food is not as good.

Pam A.

5 years ago

Nowhere else to eat. Food wasn't just ok. Didn't look very clean. I wouldn't eat here again.

Gwon S.

10 years ago

We have been there several times and was never disappointed. Great salads and they're huge.

Jason B.

11 years ago

Building looks pretty tacky but the food was good.

Ted S.

4 years ago

fast service, great food, and big portions

Monika S.

7 years ago

Wow

Bethany Diner - diners - Updated October 2026

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The waitress was kinda rude and the food was pretty basic for breakfast. The menu shown here does…read morenot match what they actually have so it's old or something. No kids breakfast menu like it's shown here. I won't be returning.

Dirty Harry's Restaurant

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I have been to your restaurant many times and have always been happy with the food and service. In…read morefact, I often go alone as my husband doesn't eat breakfast often. When I am alone, I go right to the bar. I realize we were there on Labor Day and expected to wait and understand many employees have left for college or back to their countries. Upon entering, there was no hostess so we waited. No biggie. A few minutes went by and a gentleman came in and asked if I signed in. I told him I didn't realize I was supposed to sign in and was waiting for someone to take our name. A woman who was waiting on someone at the bakery called over and said she'd be right over. A few moments later, she came to the hostess stand and told the gentleman he could head over as she motioned to the bar. She walked away. I asked my husband if he wanted to sit at the bar. There were a few people already there with 3 empty seats, so he said ok. The hostess was chatting with the people sitting at the bar, not serving them. Laughing and paying not attention to anyone who entered. We walked to the bar and seated ourselves. She walked to us and said we could not sit there that the man she seated was a family member. We apologized and got back in line. At that time, another couple had walked in so we stepped in front of them and told them we were sent back to get in line. The couple asked us if anyone was seating people and I pointed to the hostess laughing behind the counter and said we have been here at least 5 minutes. About a minute or two later, the hostess approached us and greeted us by saying, we are short staffed today so I dont know how long you will have to wait. I immediately gave her my name and said table for 2. The couple behind us did the same. Within 5 minutes, the family in front of us was called, followed by us. The couple behind us was seated shortly thereafter. The reason for my message is the way we were treated was very off-putting. I felt like we were being encouraged to leave, not all welcome. I really like it there but this woman was the worst hostess. Maybe she was just having a bad day but I wanted to approach her to say how awful we were treated but was worried we would be made to leave. I sent a private Fb message but did not get a reply.

We've been coming here for years, and it's a place our family looks forward to visiting every year…read more The food is always delicious, and there are so many great options to choose from. Some of my favorites are the homemade creamed chipped beef, which is excellent on either biscuits or toast. I also love Joey's French Toast with peanut butter and banana--it's always a treat. The kids we had with us they order the pancakes and enjoy them. If we're not very hungry in the morning, we'll often stop in for one of their fresh pastries instead. The glazed donuts, danishes, muffins, and cinnamon rolls are all fantastic. This place has such a warm, family-friendly atmosphere and is a great spot to bring kids. The staff is always welcoming, and the food never disappoints. I highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area!

Egg

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This came highly recommended from an old coworker so had to pop in…read more Perfect for a quick bite off the beach. Friend went over there for a turkey sandwich the other day. He said it was decent. So today we stopped in for a sit down. Got the basket of fried fish, shrimp, fries and chicken. Pretty good. Be careful it was the hottest food I've ever had. I had to stop eating and set a timer! You don't get much sauce with the basket. I didn't ask for more but I guarantee it would've been a charge. Since it was single servings Ken's sauces. I think we would've been better off splitting this. It was a good amount of food. Also got the mango matcha. That was good. Finding most drinks down here are really sweet. Is that because we're going south? Wife got a turkey BLT and she liked it. Her only complaint was how much meat was on it. In my opinion that's not a bad thing. A packed sandwich is what you want. Is there a reason you only get bottled water on Dewey Beach? We were not given the option of glasses and then it's $1 a bottle. I'm fine with it if I know ahead of time. Nice open seating. Perfect when there is a breeze. Plenty of Nu metal playing. So overall it's a good quick fix for the beach.

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