Whether you’re craving a classic burger, modern fusion, or farm-to-table freshness, American cuisine in Delaware offers delightful variety. That’s why it’s essential to know where to find it. From cozy diners and barbecue joints to upscale bistros and family-friendly spots, here are the best American restaurants in Delaware, OH.
Corner Cafe Restaurant
$ | (740) 369-0377 | WEBSITE
Omelets are the secret to this cozy spot’s hearty and satisfying (yet slightly plain) breakfasts. So if you can’t decide between savory or simple, this hits a comfortable middle. Plus, Corner Cafe Restaurant has tons of classic dishes like potatoes, toast, and our favorite: French toast with hints of sweetness and a syrup drizzle.
Shorty’s
$ | (740) 362-5555 | WEBSITE
You might know Shorty’s primarily as the place that makes delicious pizza with extra house-made thousand island dressing. And while that is a perfectly valid thing to order here, if you’re going to pair a sub with your pizza, we’re fans of their Italian sub or Cuban sub. They also make great wings, and some great vegetarian and gluten-free options, too.
1808 American Bistro
$$$ | (740) 417-4373 | WEBSITE
1808 American Bistro serves spectacular food, featuring top-notch options like the porterhouse special and a delicious wedge salad. They know what they’re doing when it comes to all things American, so it’s no surprise that this Delaware restaurant also makes great seafood. For classic comfort, order the pork chop with creamed spinach, but the best are the mussels in wine broth, which are tender and perfectly savory.
There’s usually only a handful of specials, but you can expect things like walleye with bougie sauce, crème brûlée, and peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The Delaware Diner
$ | (740) 417-9044 | WEBSITE
After the breakfast rush faded from most diners a few years ago, a handful of eclectic morning spots started popping up around Delaware. The Delaware Diner was one of those places and has thankfully managed to stay around. They have great accommodating options (like low-sodium or gluten-free), but our favorite is their biscuits and gravy. The gravy flavor is rich without tasting heavy, and it comes with fluffy homemade biscuits. We can’t leave here without ordering it.
The Backstretch
$ | (740) 369-9883 | WEBSITE
We head to The Backstretch when we’re craving that classic comfort food or a sandwich that feels like it was dreamed up by your favorite home cook. For instance, they have the Carolina Barbecue wings, the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, and our go-to, the Reuben with those addictive deviled eggs on the side. If you’re not in the mood for something quite so hearty, maybe try their fresh grilled options or the popular Mac and Cheese with Candle Bread service.
Son of Thurman
$ | (740) 417-9614 | WEBSITE
A lot of places have a few different burgers on their menu. But Son of Thurman (a casual spot that’s essentially a bar in Delaware, Ohio) devotes its entire focus to massive American fare. You’ll find about a dozen burgers to choose from, with options ranging from the Thurmanator to the Alpha 1, and they manage to be juicy and bold. And since it gets crowded, don’t wait until peak hours to grab a seat. Head to the bar.
Bout Time Tavern
$$ | (740) 274-8095 | WEBSITE
Bout Time Tavern has been a local favorite for years (since 2012 to be exact). And if you’ve ever craved a solid bar with great food, especially the pizza, this Delaware spot is for you. Specifically their pepperoni pizza. The crust has a satisfying chew and isn’t too greasy. Plus, it’s topped with the right amount of sauce to complement (not overwhelm) the flavor of the cheese. The staff, including Anna and Red, provide fantastic service.
It’s a perfect spot to watch sports, with UFC ppv available. The locals are friendly, and there’s no pressure to keep ordering. Ask for Nick for more than just food, and Lovely Rita might surprise you with cheap drinks.
Bob Evans
$ | (740) 363-0231 | WEBSITE
Bob Evans is another spot with a mixed reputation for American breakfast, and our favorite happens to be their Homestead breakfast when it’s prepared right. They also make decent kids’ meals with crayons, and you should probably get both if you’re dining with family. And while there was a time when the seating could feel cramped and distracting, at least now you can sometimes find friendly servers who make the experience welcoming.
Restoration Brew Worx
$ | (740) 990-7120 | WEBSITE
You can’t tell, but the wings pictured above are absolutely loaded. Restoration Brew Worx, which sits comfortably in Delaware, specializes in these generously-portioned plates that are perfect for sharing with one or two friends. And while we love their indulgent buttery buffalo garlic or candied bacon siracha wings, their reasonably-priced October fest celebration beers are also great. They’re not too heavy, and the flavor of the hops really comes through.
Opa Grill & Tavern
$ | (740) 363-7283 | WEBSITE
This Delaware spot is part of a local favorite with a reputation for genuine hospitality. Local joints can be hit-or-miss, but this place’s bourbon selection is great. Opa’s wall of booze creates a warm, inviting atmosphere with a relaxed vibe. They have an amazing selection to choose from, but the flavorful dishes and hearty portions are the best. So go for the fantastic food, friendly service, or just a cold drink with friends.
Bun’s Restaurant
$ | (740) 363-2867 | WEBSITE
Bun’s Restaurant is known for its stuffed flounder (the must-try dish everyone orders), which remains a standout on the menu. This is great news, not just because it’s fantastic, but because you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to enjoy it—the open-door seating and cross breeze make every visit pleasant. The Oriental chicken salad is generous and tasty, while the burgers, like the Buns burger with steak fries, are delicious and made from scratch, leaving you full and happy.
Recent improvements under new ownership have made the food fantastic and the atmosphere great, with customers appreciating that soda refills are now complimentary. The outdoor space is comfortable and welcoming, featuring bar and patio seating.
While service can be mixed—drinks arrive quickly and food comes hot and good, though there have been complaints about long waits—many guests would return, citing the improved quality and friendly atmosphere, especially for enjoyable sandwiches like the ruebens and green fried tomato club.
Scoreboard Pub & Grill
$$ | (740) 417-8416 | WEBSITE
This sports pub in Delaware makes some of the best burgers in the area, including pizzas. Their Scoreboard-style pizza loaded with toppings is one of the only good things to come out of watching sports, and the Reuben sandwich is another reason for us to be there at 7pm grabbing a seat at the bar. The burger/patty hybrid is juicy the way you expect a quality burger to be, flavorful the way you hope a pub meal is, and has a perfect bun with melted cheese and fresh toppings.
All of that is delicious, but one of the best components is the bottom of the loaded fries, which is crispy with melted cheese and bacon.