Patsy’s
Chef-owned Patsy’s has been offering Key West-style and coastal cuisine for decades, such longevity for good reason: the food and cocktails are reliably good, delivered with warm, professional, and attentive service. Mother-daughter business partners run the kitchen and the front of the house, and inviting seafood and chops emerge with Southern spice splashed through the accompanying crusts, salsas, and sauces. You can all but detect the garden herbs in nearly every dish, knowing the fish is daily fresh and the beef carefully chosen. Everything on the menu is thoughtfully prepared; tastefully cooked; and well presented – there really are no misses. But unless you are a hardened land-lover, seize every opportunity to grab whatever special fish is offered – you will be delighted in preparation and taste. Nor will you regret any of the thoughtfully prepared cocktails, among the most unique in Bethany Beach, including an eclectic wine list. Patsy’s does not receive a lot of tourist attention, not surprising given its easy-to-overlook location and sometimes difficult reservation. Locals prefer to keep Patsy’s a secret, and may become irritated if vacationers start flocking, especially because seating is tight, especially on the outside (covered) porch. Alas, word over the years has spread because meals this good demand exposure, even when the wait is long. So, enjoy Patsy’s while tourists frequent its many neighbors, and don’t tell your friends.