Discover Delaware’s Hidden Treasures: Exploring Amish Communities, Businesses, and More
Delaware, known for its beaches and bustling cities, hides a unique and lesser-known gem within its borders – a vibrant Amish community that thrives amidst the state’s modern landscapes. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the charming Amish communities in Delaware, including their businesses, restaurants, and other exciting tourist attractions. Get ready for an enchanting adventure filled with history, culture, and delicious homemade treats!
Where to Find Delaware’s Amish Communities:
While Delaware’s Amish communities are smaller compared to those in neighboring states, you can still experience their rich culture and hospitality in the following areas:
- Dover: The state capital is home to a small but active Amish population. You’ll find Amish businesses, farms, and shops scattered throughout the surrounding countryside.
- Greenwood: Located in Sussex County, Greenwood is a hub for Amish activity. Here, you can explore Amish stores, restaurants, and even attend auctions.
Amish Businesses:
Delaware’s Amish communities are known for their craftsmanship and dedication to quality. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for handmade items and support local artisans:
- Furniture Stores: Visit Amish-owned furniture stores for beautifully crafted wooden pieces, from dining tables to rocking chairs.
- Quilt Shops: Discover intricate Amish quilts, known for their vibrant colors and meticulous stitching.
- Craft Boutiques: Explore quaint boutiques offering handmade crafts, candles, and pottery.
- Farm Stands: Buy fresh produce, homemade jams, and preserves from Amish farm stands.
Amish Restaurants:
One of the highlights of visiting Amish communities is indulging in their delicious, hearty cuisine. Here are some must-visit Amish restaurants:
- Amish Restaurant Middletown, DE This family-owned eatery serves mouthwatering dishes like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and shoofly pie.
- Emma’s Family Restaurant, Greenwood: Enjoy an Amish buffet with a variety of traditional dishes, including scrapple, homemade bread, and whoopie pies.
- Dutch Country Market, Laurel, DE: Great selection of various goods. Wide varieties of candies, seasonings, jellies & condiments, salads, baked goods, excellent meats & cheeses and the best dill pickles. Everything is fresh and delicious. Highly recommend.
Tourist Attractions:
In addition to savoring the Amish culinary delights, you can explore various attractions in the area:
- Amish Country Bike Tours: Rent a bike and traverse scenic backroads, experiencing the serene countryside up close.
- Blackbird Creek Reserve: Enjoy hiking and birdwatching at this tranquil natural preserve near Townsend.
- Amish Auctions: Attend weekly auctions where you can bid on antiques, farm equipment, and unique handmade items.
Cultural Experiences:
To truly immerse yourself in Amish culture, consider the following:
- Farm Tours: Arrange a farm tour to witness the daily life of Amish families, including farming, milking cows, and woodworking.
- Craft Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops to learn traditional Amish crafts like quilting, basket weaving, and canning.
- Amish Countryside Tours – Explore Amish Life Address: Tours depart from various locations; check their website for details To truly immerse yourself in the Amish way of life, consider taking a guided tour with Amish Countryside Tours. These tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the Amish culture, taking you through the scenic countryside, visiting Amish farms, and providing insight into their daily routines. You’ll learn about their traditions, craftsmanship, and the values that guide their community.
- Amish Furniture Country Crafts, Greenwood, DE
- Rose Valley Furniture
- Shady Lane Selections & Countryside Shoes
- Dogwood Glen Greenhouse
- Rose Valley Greenhouse
- Yoder’s Greenhouse
- Amish Country Bike Tour: The Amish bike tour includes 15, 25, 50, 62 and 100-mile routes for cyclists to pick from, so you can choose to embark on the adventure that best suits your abilities. There are plenty of rest stops along each bike route, so you can pace yourself and take breaks at your convenience.
- Spence’s Bazaar & Flea Market: Spence’s Bazaar is located in Dover Delaware and is open on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday from early morning until afternoon. This bazaar is part flea market, part farmers market and features household goods, books, collectibles, clothing and purses as well as homemade ice cream and sausages, breads, jams and Amish pastries.Hours: Tuesday & Friday-7 AM to 5 PM Saturday 7 AM to 3 PM
Delaware’s Amish communities may be small, but they offer a wealth of experiences for curious travelers. Whether you’re seeking handcrafted treasures, savoring homemade meals, or immersing yourself in a different way of life, these hidden gems in the First State will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the Amish culture that thrives in Delaware’s midst. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and embark on a delightful journey of discovery in Delaware’s Amish country!
A Culinary Odyssey in Delaware: Unearthing Hidden Gems
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Delaware lie some of the state’s best-kept culinary secrets. Buckle up as we embark on a gastronomic journey, exploring quaint eateries and mouthwatering menus that will make your taste buds dance with delight.
Miller’s Country Kitchen – A Breakfast Haven
Location: 701 N Broad St, Middletown, DE 19709
If breakfast is your favorite meal of the day, then Miller’s Country Kitchen is your dream destination. Open from Thursday to Saturday, this charming spot welcomes early risers from 8:30 AM onward. The closing times vary – 6 PM on Thursday, 7 PM on Friday, and 4 PM on Saturday.
Now, let’s talk about the breakfast offerings. Picture this: The Breakfast Haystack, a hearty creation that piles toast or biscuits, home fries, your choice of meat, scrambled eggs, grilled peppers, gravy, and onions, all smothered in cheese sauce, onto a generous plate. If that doesn’t entice you, the Dutch Scrambler will. Eggs, home fries, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and cheese sauce, all scrambled together and served with a side of toast. For those who love melts, the Beef, Bacon, and Cheddar Melt, oozing with pot roast, cheddar cheese, bacon, and BBQ sauce on homemade white bread, is an absolute delight. And don’t forget the Reuben Melt, featuring sauerkraut, turkey, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing, all grilled to perfection on homemade rye bread. If you’re in the mood for something special, the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, crispy chicken with Miller’s signature sauce and mozzarella cheese on a roll, served with chips and a pickle, is a must-try.
Stoltzfus BBQ – Smoky Delights Await
Location: 701 N Broad St, Middletown, DE 19709
Craving some smoky, barbecue goodness? Stoltzfus BBQ has you covered. This delectable spot shares an address with Miller’s Country Kitchen, open from Thursday to Saturday with the same hours.
The menu here is a carnivore’s dream. From Cajun wings to tender chicken wings, succulent brisket, Lechon, pot roast, and mouthwatering roast beef, you’ll find your barbecue cravings satisfied and then some.
The Country Eatery – A Homestyle Feast
Location: 950 N State St, Dover, DE 19904
Head south to Dover, and you’ll stumble upon The Country Eatery. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM (closing at 4 PM on Sundays), this eatery is a treasure trove of flavorful delights. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, prepare for a feast.
The dinner options here are nothing short of spectacular. Opt for Veal Oscar, where sautéed veal meets asparagus and crabmeat under a blanket of hollandaise sauce. The Two Pieces of Calf’s Liver, topped with brown gravy and fried onions, are comfort food at its finest. Seafood lovers can indulge in Delaware Crab Cakes, made with lump crabmeat, boiled or fried, or the tantalizing Country Seafood Sampler, featuring fried Delaware crabcakes, flounder, shrimp, scallops, and clam strips.
Zook’s Corner Restaurant – The Homemade Haven
Location: 550 S New St, Dover, DE 19904
Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays are extra special in Dover, thanks to Zook’s Corner Restaurant. Open from 7 AM, the closing times vary (5:30 PM on Tuesdays and Fridays, 3 PM on Saturdays). This humble spot is renowned for its homemade meals, from pizzas and salads to subs, sandwiches, and Boardwalk Fries.
For breakfast, fuel up with options like a Cheese Omelet, Alpine Omelet, or breakfast combos that include 2 Eggs and your choice of toast and meat.
The Well Coffeehouse and Marketplace – A Coffee Lover’s Paradise
Location: 6949 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707
Located in Hockessin, The Well Coffeehouse and Marketplace is a haven for coffee enthusiasts and lovers of delicious subs. Open from Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays), the hours are from 8 AM to 7 PM.
The menu is a tantalizing blend of breakfast delights, subs, and comfort food classics. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast sandwich, a bagel with butter or cream cheese, or a mouthwatering hot roast beef, this charming coffeehouse and marketplace has you covered.
Conclusion – Unearth Culinary Delights in Delaware’s Hidden Corners
Delaware’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its scenery. From hearty breakfasts to finger-licking barbecue, flavorful seafood feasts to homemade favorites, these hidden gems across the state promise unforgettable dining experiences. So, if you find yourself in Delaware, make sure to seek out these unique establishments and savor the delicious discoveries that await in the First State. Your taste buds will thank you!
