Forget saltwater taffy and caramel corn: Several spots offer a side of memorable merchandise.
One of Rehoboth's most iconic restaurants, Grotto opened a 900-square-foot gift shop in First Street Station on May 25. There are neatly folded T-shirts and sweatshirts, as well as aprons, pizza pie-shaped dog toys, leashes imprinted with slices, greeting cards with custom illustrations, pizza pans, cell phone wallets, key chains and serving plates. The shop also sells bake-at-home pizza.
70 Rehoboth Ave., Unit 104, Rehoboth Beach "¢ 727-5393
The new courtyard linking Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats with Chesapeake & Maine includes the Off-Centered EmPOURium, a 720-square-foot retail section selling T-shirts, hoodies, hats, keychains, stickers, coasters and glassware. Check out the counter, which is the old bar top from the 1995 pub that was torn down to make way for the courtyard.
320 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach "¢ 226-BREW
You can't miss the retail area in this down-home family eatery. It's right inside the door. The selection includes socks, oven mitts, puzzles, games, shirts, sweatshirts, cards and, of course, homemade cookies, pies, sticky buns, cakes and candy.
19724 Coastal Hwy., Rehoboth Beach "¢ 227-4888
The most popular items are T-shirts, hats and visors in a variety of styles. But Frisbees, a grill utensil set and pet leashes complement the backyard picnic vibe that inspired the restaurant's concept.
36707 Crooked Hammock Way, Lewes "¢ 644-7837
All Big Fish Grill restaurants sell the company's proprietary salt and Vidalia Peach Hot Sauce. For more flavor, visit the market next to the Rehoboth site on Route 1. Along with fresh fish, there is a large variety of Big Fish's seasonings, sauces and dressings-all packaged and ready to go.
20312 Coastal Hwy., Rehoboth Beach "¢ 227-3665
Is it a store with a restaurant? Or a restaurant with a store? Equal attention is given to both. The retail side features home and garden accessories and bath-and-body products. The dining area is tucked in attractive atriuim.
720 Kings Hwy., Lewes "¢ 645-0300
This article originally appeared on Delaware Today
