Have you ever had a history lesson while you sipped drinks and savored a good meal? If you want to make this happen while you’re in Delaware, plan to dine at Jessop’s Tavern and Colonial Restaurant. Simply put, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered another world when you explore this historic restaurant. It all starts when you walk through the doors of the 300-year-old building—you’ll be welcomed by staff dressed in traditional clothing from the 1700s!
Jessop’s Tavern & Colonial Restaurant is located at 114 Delaware Street in New Castle. Once you spot the Belgium, England, and Holland flags, you’ll know that you’ve arrived. The warm and friendly atmosphere brings to mind a classic European tavern. And it doesn’t matter if you’re a local or visiting from out of town; you’ll be welcomed like a regular. As stated on the website, “our purpose has been to create a memorable experience while serving history in Olde City New Castle.”
Here at Jessop’s, atmosphere is everything. The building where you’ll find the restaurant today was constructed as a private home nearly 100 years before the Declaration of Independence was signed. The restaurant is named for one of its early tenants, Abraham Jessop, who operated a barrel-making business out of the building. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the building served as a restaurant, originally called the Captain’s Log Restaurant.
The restaurant you’ll discover today was established in 1997, and the owners were committed to creating a menu as historic and authentic as the building itself. The items pay homage to the region’s European influences—namely, Dutch cheese, Colonial dishes, Swedish sauces, and English pub fare. Plus, the bar highlights one of the most popular drinks from the olden days: Belgian beer.
Start your memorable evening off with the appetizer board that includes Dutch cheeses and meats. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a pub in England when you bite into some of the best fish and chips around. Another favorite? The shepherd’s pie…