Delaware
We've grown to love a lot around Delaware and the surrounding county. Downtown Delaware is especially cute, with loads of shops, restaurants, and breweries. And Delaware County includes the always-growing Polaris Fashion Place.
Food
1808 American Bistro: an upscale but approachable bistro with great cocktails, a respectable beer selection, and inventive takes on American classics
Amato's Woodfired Pizza: corner pizza spot with a big patio
Buns Restaurant: established in 1864 and recognized by the neon sign hanging over Winter Street, Buns is a long-running favorite for lunch an dinner
Ciao Cafe: corner dessert spot with gelato, crepes, donuts, coffee, paninis, milkshakes, smoothies, and more
The Greater Gouda: cheese shop that's loaded with local products
Fresh Start Bakery & Cafe: little cafe and bakery downtown
The Hamburger Inn Diner: a Delaware staple since 1932, this little diner is known for, yes, their burgers - plus their cinnamon rolls
Opa Grill & Tavern: Greek pub with a great whiskey selection
Speck Italian Eatery: fantastic modern Italian from the owners of 1808 and Veritas
Son of Thurman: a smaller outpost of the famous German Village burger joint
Typhoon Asian Fusion Bistro: lovely Asian fusion incorporating Japanese, Thai, and Chinese dishes
Coffee & Beer
Barley Hopsters: one of the OG bottle shops, Barley Hopsters is still the place to go for a huge selection of beers
Coffeeology: part coffee shop, part boutique store
Henmick Farm & Brewery: new family-run brewery on a century old farm. Beautiful renovated barn and spacious outdoor digs perfect for enjoying beers.
Old Dog Ale House & Brewery: solid pub crafting their own beers
Restoration Brew Worx: brewpub in the heart of Delaware with a creative menu and big roster of beers
Staas Brewing: one of our favorite breweries in central Ohio, Staas is a small, family-run corner pub. They brew a wide range beers, and nail every style.
Parks & Attractions
The Arts Castle: cultural arts center located in a large old building, offering a wide range of classes and other programs. See also the related Gallery 22 in downtown Delaware.
Beanbag Books: a favorite little bookstore in downtown Delaware
Shale Hollow Park: one of Delaware's many Preservation Parks, Shale Hollow includes a small nature center, hiking trail, and creek that's perfect for wading and playing
Olentangy Caverns: seasonal site (usually April-October) offering cavern tours, plus mini golf, gem mining, a petting zoo, and more
Read our Delaware itineraries
A Day of Fun & Games at Polaris
Spending a day in and around Polaris, hitting up local restaurants, Top Golf, Airhouse Adventure Park, and more.
August 2021
Dining in Downtown Delaware
Our first introduction to Athens, shown around by the CVB, with stops at Jackie O's, Strouds Run, O'Betty's, OU, and Fluff Bakery.
December 2020
Your Delaware County Gift Guide
A seasonal look at local shops, restaurants, breweries, activities, around Delaware County.
December 2021
