1808 American Bistro

This is an excellent restaurant in most ways. The service was outstanding, and the food was very good. The ambiance is nice. The roasted cauliflower appetizer was very good -- the harrisa gives it a real kick so be careful about that :), if you are spice averse. I really liked their cocktails. For the main dish, I wanted to get their 48-hour short-rib but they had run out. So instead, I got their chicken special which was delicious as well. A great meal--definitely deserves a return visit.

Bottom Line: WowThere's really not much more that I can say that hasn't already been said. I do think it's weird aka wrong to charge for bread. That being said - it's a great presentation and pretty delicious.The Shrimp and Grits is absolutely lick the bowl worthy . The Short ribs were very good. Delicious sauce over the potatoes. Fork tender beef. Love the extensive beer collection and the fact that they were knowledgeable about the options. This is a perfect date night option. Upscale, delicious food options. Bottom Line: will def be back. Would recommend to everyone.

Great spot in Delaware for a quality meal. We made an Open Table Rez at 5:45 on a Saturday night, it fit our schedule. Good thing we did because walk-ins had to wait a long time. By the time we left at 7, the large restaurant was full. Nice service. I think the entire staff are college students. No problem there, just that they are short on their menu knowledge and food in general. But service was steady and not intrusive.Nice beer menu. Nice spirits menu too. Our two top had a Caesar with grilled chicken and Miso Salmon (very unique and tasty). The anchovies on the Caesar were white, my least favorite. The salad needed a salty brown version instead of pickled. Moderate pricing. We'd come back when we are in the area!

Service was terrific. Carpaccio outstanding. Both entrees were devoured. Will be back to try dinner.

Our server gal was nice, answered our questions about the menu and gave personal recommendations (always a a huge plus for any quality server, imo). Being just after 12, the place was not completely full, which I wasn't expecting due to the rave reviews about this place. I decided to get their Pea hummus (!!) and later ordered the Smoked Pork Hash to take home for another meal. The pea hummus was delicious. Not too thick, but not runny, either; perfect consistency. I was very surprised how crisp and flavorful the peeled carrots were, and the savory to sweet ratio was great. If I found something like this pea spread closer to home, you betcha bottom dollar it's worth a try. I had my has for dinner, and was rather disappointed in the scant amount of pork it had. My friend got it to eat at the restaurant, and hers was Chuck full of pieces. Apparently, they must have overindulged her bowl, forgetting that my order was yet to be made. The salsa verde is not hot at all (yay!), and gave a good background flavor. I don't make it to Delaware often, but when I do, I always love trying quality food. Will I keep 1808 on my bookmarks? No, there's too many other places I want to try out. A satisfying lunch, nonetheless!

Excellent cutlery and silverware. The coffee came with a mini spoon. Had me saying "oh, oh wow" I was blown away.

The service was very attentive and the decor was fun. Beef carpaccio was probably the best that I've ever had! I had the shrimp and grits which was perfectly cooked and the heat was just right. My husband had filet with Gorgonzola mash. He doesn't usually order filet, because it tends to be more bland, but he loved it. The wedge salad was very generous and crunchy. Overall, we were very pleased and would definitely recommend it. I forgot to take pics. Next time!

Love this place. The drinks are unique and fun. It's a nice place to bring out of town guests. The beef medallions are consistently perfect!!

Great location for sit down dinner, if you are looking for a looking more upscale and quiet dinner. Menu items range from $20-$45 per entree. Easy access and parking in downtown Delaware across from their local theatre. Great bar service, great bourbon options, drafts, and staff. Kaycie was our server and was very helpful and attentive. Grab a table or sit at the bar. We did table service tonight, but want to go back and just try a drink at the bar. Our group did Shrimp and Grits, Filet Medallions, Short Ribs with starter Salads. Of the three Filet Medallions and Short Ribs were top choices but the Shrimp and Grits were good but not a lot. Also - if you are in the mood for dessert try the Beignets.

Great atmosphere and energy, waiter went above and beyond. Would definitely recommend and we will be returning.