Photography by Justin Casanova

Timeless Tables

Four Cape Region restaurants where the recipes, traditions and familiar faces have stood the test of time.

Since 1956


What started as one man’s American dream has become a Rehoboth Beach institution. Founded by Greek immigrant Gus Svolis, Gus & Gus has grown from a simple burger and hot dog stand into a boardwalk favorite known for burgers, gyros, Italian sausage and its famously crispy fries. Three generations later, the family is still serving generations of loyal customers.

Most Popular: Burgers

What Keeps Them in Business: Quality ingredients and a prime boardwalk location

Visit: 15 South Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach


Since 1984

Sunrise Restaurant has been fueling Dewey Beach mornings for more than 40 years. Now owned by Rob Holson, who started there as a 14-year-old busboy, the family-owned restaurant is best known for generous portions, homemade home fries and breakfast favorites like its western and gyro omelets. For locals and vacationers alike, it’s the kind of place where breakfast feels like coming home.

Most Popular: Homemade home fries, bacon, egg & cheese on a bagel and the western omelet

What Keeps Them in Business: Consistency and large portions at a fair price

Visit: 2300 Coastal Hwy, Dewey Beach


Since 1985

Founded by Nick Halkopoulos (pictured) in 1985, Nick’s has been a Dewey Beach staple for cheesesteaks, gyros and late-night cravings for more than four decades. While the menu has grown over the years, one thing hasn’t changed: visitors still line up for the restaurant’s signature cheesesteaks, returning summer after summer to a family-owned favorite.

Most Popular: Cheesesteaks

What Keeps Them in Business: Loyal customers and a reputation built over generations

Visit: 1800 Coastal Hwy, Dewey Beach


Since the 1970’s

Crystal Restaurant has quietly built a loyal following one meal at a time. The Tsolakis family has owned the downtown favorite since the mid-1990s, carrying on a tradition that dates back to the 1970s. The restaurant has earned its reputation through consistency, generous portions and familiar faces. For many regulars, breakfast at Crystal is as much a tradition as a trip to the beach.

Most Popular: Omelets

What Keeps Them in Business: Consistency, longtime employees and loyal customers

Visit: 37300 Rehoboth Ave Ext #1, Rehoboth Beach

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