Lodge Du Pont Evaluate: A Luxurious Keep & Eating Information in Wilmington, DE

 

There’s one thing particular a few getaway that feels each indulgent and easy. For us, the Hotel Du Pont is a staycation—an opportunity to immerse ourselves in luxurious with out venturing removed from house.

Whether or not you’re a Delaware native or simply visiting, this iconic resort gives a timeless escape. It blends Gilded Age grandeur with fashionable comforts, the place each element invitations you right into a world of magnificence, allure, and distinctive eating.

If unwinding means sipping cappuccinos at Le Cavalier, having fun with craft cocktails at The Inexperienced Room Bar & Lounge, or exploring close by points of interest just like the Delaware Artwork Museum and Longwood Gardens, then Lodge Du Pont belongs in your checklist.

We simply returned from a beautiful weekend right here and are already planning our subsequent go to.

Right here’s what makes it such a standout.

The Lodge Du Pont – Wilmington, Delaware

Ranked #7 on TripAdvisor’s Most Fashionable U.S. Motels, this downtown Wilmington property isn’t only a place to remain—it’s an expertise steeped in historical past, allure, and luxurious.

Opened in 1913 after two years of development, the 217-room Lodge Du Pont is a shocking testomony to Gilded Age structure, meticulously preserved to this present day. Grasp French and Italian artisans crafted its European chandeliers, intricate hand-carved woodwork, and beautiful mosaic and terrazzo flooring over a century in the past.

At first look, the resort’s exterior seems understated, however stepping inside reveals its legacy.

Whereas fashionable furnishings now enhances the house, the basic bones stay intact. Merely enjoyable within the foyer, you’ll immediately really feel enveloped by its wealthy historical past and timeless allure.

 💡 Professional Tip: Should you’re driving in, I extremely suggest their valet possibility. Sure, there are parking garages shut by, however the comfort of the valet right here can’t be beat.

Through the years, the resort has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and even royalty. Only a few embrace President Jimmy Carter, First Woman Eleanor Roosevelt, Elizabeth Taylor, Katharine Hepburn, Bette Davis, Amelia Earhart, Lucille Ball, Bob Hope, Norman Rockwell, Reese Witherspoon, Whoopi Goldberg, Duke Ellington, Paul McCartney, and Warren Buffet. There are such a lot of extra. Legend has it that in 1955 Prince Rainier of Monaco negotiated for the hand of Grace Kelly on this very resort.

Verify in on the entrance desk right here was genuinely pleasant and a complete breeze. When you have any questions on your keep or want suggestions that is the place to do it. Whereas ready for the elevator we observed one more whimsical classic element, an outdated authentic mail slot for letters. Completely lovely. 

Whereas the resort prides itself on preserving a majority of these distinctive architectural particulars, one factor has been altering right here: the rooms. 

Visitor Rooms & Suites at Lodge Du Pont  

The rooms and suites are below renovation and shall be accomplished in late 2025. We stayed in a newly refreshed King Suite, and from the second we walked in, it felt like a retreat. It had a contemporary impartial palette, with an up to date model and fashionable facilities.

Suppose plush bedding, luxurious loos, and a way of tranquility that makes it straightforward to neglect the world outdoors. Our mattress was extremely snug and every morning I awoke critically rejuvenated. In truth, among the best issues right here that’s arduous to seek out in a metropolis resort: quiet.

Whereas we cherished how ethereal and spacious our room was, all of the closet house had me gushing. Should you journey, you recognize it’s a rarity as of late. The in-room secure made it straightforward to stow valuables whereas touring mild.

Rooms right here even have spacious marble loos with both separate spa-like waterfall showers or deep-soaking tubs. The additional deep soaking tub in our room was like a present. After a protracted day, it felt like having the spa come to me. The refined terry robes hanging close by have been a lot appreciated afterward, and the complimentary slippers have been a stunning cozy contact too.

To not sound cliché, nevertheless it actually is the little issues!

For me, espresso and water are a should in a resort room and the Lodge Du Pont had us arrange with each. We cherished the in-room espresso espresso machine with Lavazza pods for a morning pick-me-up and the complimentary bottled water was a easy comfort that’s actually appreciated. Should you want additional water, your room additionally comes with a free, take-home refillable chrome steel water bottle. Conveniently, proper outdoors within the hallways are filtered water dispensers so that you’ll by no means go thirsty.

The sweetest welcome? A tin of the resort’s signature chocolate-dipped macaroons ready in our room. For anybody with a candy tooth, this little indulgence goes a great distance. And if cravings hit later, 24-hour room service has you lined.

Different facilities within the room included a flat-screen tv, free WIFI and nightly turndown service. The in-room fridge is all the time a perk, particularly in case you have a tendency to seek out your self with leftovers after dinner like we do.

If you wish to get a exercise in, the health club right here is wonderful. As a visitor you’ve gotten limitless entry to their state-of-the-art 24-hour health heart on the 2nd ground of the resort. Full with Peloton bikes, ellipticals, treadmills, quite a lot of power coaching machines, medication balls, and free weights – there’s no exercise you possibly can’t do right here.

The resort repeatedly hosts particular occasions together with elegant afternoon teas, vacation brunches, and themed celebrations tied to each popular culture and native happenings. Upcoming occasions embrace Mom’s Day brunch on Might 11, 2025 of their well-known Gold Ballroom. Verify their events page for the most recent choices throughout your keep.

For some indulgent however extra Zen-like self-care, e-book a spa therapy or glow-up on the onsite Currie Spa & Salon as a substitute.

Our favourite factor to do right here although, is eat.

The place To Eat & Drink At Lodge Du Pont

Downtown Wilmington, DE has a vibrant culinary scene alongside Market Avenue, however what makes Lodge Du Pont particular is that distinctive eating exists proper on the property. Foodies will love that you simply don’t even have to depart the Lodge Du Pont’s premises for excellent eating and expertly crafted cocktails. Non-hotel friends are welcome too, making these venues native favorites.

Le Cavalier on the Inexperienced Room, the resort’s signature brasserie, seems like a European trip minus the jet lag. The meals are unhurried, indulgent, and altogether satisfying, with a wine checklist which may tempt even essentially the most modest drinker into attempting only one extra glass. It’s additionally one of many area’s most well-known eating rooms. For craft cocktails and small bites at night time, The Inexperienced Room Bar & Lounge adjoining to the foyer must be on each cocktail fanatic’s must-visit checklist.

Additionally onsite is DE.CO, a contemporary meals corridor idea that presently options quite a lot of 5 meals distributors the place you possibly can pattern and savor completely different kinds of delicacies.

Le Cavalier on the Inexperienced Room

Le Cavalier, fondly often known as “Le Cav,” is the crown jewel of the Lodge Du Pont, mixing historical past, magnificence, and a contemporary, fashionable vibe. Previously the enduring Inexperienced Room, this historic eating house—with its breathtaking ornate ceilings, wealthy wooden paneling, and spectacular globe chandeliers—underwent a considerate renovation in 2020. The outcome? An ideal steadiness of old-world allure and up to date sophistication, the place hovering arched home windows flood the house with mild, plush gold velvet banquettes invite lingering conversations, and a glossy bar makes it one of the vital placing and iconic eating spots in Wilmington.

The title “Le Cavalier,” that means “The Horseman” in French, pays tribute to the Brandywine River Valley’s equestrian legacy—a nod seen within the restaurant’s fastidiously chosen art work, together with a placing framed equestrian portray that greets friends as they enter.

Underneath the culinary management of Chef Accomplice Tyler Akin, it delivers a contemporary French brasserie menu impressed by the flavors of Provence, North Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Whether or not you cease by for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, you’ll uncover dishes which might be superbly introduced and brimming with daring, contemporary flavors.

Le Cav strikes the right steadiness between informal and complicated, making it splendid for an important day or a relaxed night time out. You too can begin your day right here with breakfast or brunch—we opted for the latter and cherished each chunk.

Brunch at Le Cav

We began brunch with the Parfait—a visible masterpiece served in a chic silver coupe glass. Made with labneh, a thick and wealthy Levant-style yogurt with a contact of salt, it’s artfully topped with plump contemporary raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, then topped with candied almond dukkah. The toasted sesame and heat spices like coriander create a nutty distinction in opposition to the cool yogurt and evenly candy berries—a refreshing begin that’s each indulgent and light-weight.

Should you’re feeling meaty, the generously sized Le Cheeseburger is a cult basic—and for good motive. Two juicy patties made with a chief mix are topped with bacon, schmaltz aioli, and gherkin pickles on a buttery toasted brioche bun, served with both golden shoestring fries tucked right into a steel cup or a contemporary inexperienced salad. The burger virtually calls for to be photographed earlier than you sink your tooth into what may be the final word burger expertise.

The Lobster Roll is probably set to turn into their subsequent buyer favourite. A pillowy toasted buttered roll cradles beneficiant chunks of tender lobster meat dusted with contemporary herbs. Every chunk delivers pure, buttery decadence complemented by a vibrant facet salad and refreshing lemon wedge. We have been fortunate sufficient to reach simply in time for his or her lobster supply, and the kitchen was variety sufficient to organize one on the fly. Should you want, a chilly Lobster Roll preparation with Duke’s Mayo and herbs can also be obtainable.

Past the common menu choices, Le Cavalier hosts special culinary events that showcase Delaware’s meals scene. Chef Akin’s Delaware All-Star Chef Sequence debuts April twenty first with James Beard nominee Chef Matt Kern (One Coastal, Fenwick Island). This sold-out inaugural dinner contains a six-course menu mixing coastal and French cuisines with Mid-Atlantic seafood focus. It’s the primary of a number of chef collaborations deliberate for spring 2025, with extra occasions coming quickly.

The Lodge Du Pont gives complimentary espresso within the foyer every morning. However even in case you’re not too hungry, do your self a favor: order a fresh-brewed cappuccino and Le Cav’s Pastry Basket. It’s heavenly and comes with a house-baked flaky heat croissant, banana-chocolate bread, Danish, creamy butter, and house-made jam.

Savoring these treats whereas surrounded by the restaurant’s gorgeous architectural particulars creates a morning ritual we might simply get used to. It’s as in case you landed in Paris, with out leaving the property.

The Inexperienced Room Bar & Lounge on the Lodge Du Pont 

For an after dinner cocktail, we popped into The Green Room Bar & Lounge at Hotel Du Pont. It’s positioned within the resort foyer throughout from the piano, earlier than the doorway to Le Cav (no outside entrance). All are welcome right here too, not simply resort friends.

We anticipated to seize a fast drink. However the bar’s stylish, cozy atmosphere with low leather-based sofas, layers of velvet pillows, cozy throws and temper lighting enticed us to remain longer.

The bar options premium spirits, wines, beer, and appetizers, however cocktails developed by head bartender Alex Taylor are the true spotlight. Crafted with house-made syrups, natural infusions, and distinctive flavors, his creations showcase the worldwide experience he’s acquired by way of his travels—evident in each the menu and each meticulously ready drink.

A must-try cocktail at The Inexperienced Room & Lounge is the “Kingston City,” an amber spirit-forward libation. It’s dramatically ready by torching fragrant woods and spices, capturing the smoke below a picket dome earlier than releasing a billowing cloud of perfume when served.

Alex explains, it pays homage to Bob Marley, who reportedly labored on the Lodge du Pont throughout his time in Wilmington in the course of the mid-Sixties.

In response to Taylor,

“It’s a Manhattan-riff with layers of flavored complexity as an homage to the constructive vibrations shared by Marley.” 

The cocktail options Appleton Property 8-year aged Jamaican rum, an amaro and candy vermouth mix, apricot liqueur, and cardamom bitters, completed with a wooden and spice smoke that “provides further layers of taste.“

“Bob Marley was actually a pillar of power and backbone; ‘Kingston City’ seeks to recreate these attributes,” Taylor added.

Journey Flippantly, made with Campari, Home Vermouth, and Amaro blended and shaken with hopped grapefruit bitters and topped with ginger beer was one other favourite. A chunk of the candied ginger garnish earlier than every sip revealed a brand new profile of flavors.

The bar additionally has a menu for small bites. All of the menus right here change seasonally. The bar is open to the general public so even in case you’re not staying on the resort, make some extent go to. Open Monday by way of Thursday from 5 PM to 11 PM and Friday and Saturday till midnight.

I do know “hidden gem” will get thrown round so much, however this place actually is one. Go test it out whereas Alex is working the present!

DE.CO Meals Corridor: Culinary Comfort Steps from Your Room

Linked to Lodge Du Pont with each road and resort entrances

Whenever you’re unsure what you’re within the temper to eat, DE.CO is the right answer in downtown Wilmington. This contemporary meals corridor, conveniently positioned in the identical constructing as Lodge Du Pont, gives a culinary tour with 5 meals stalls below one roof plus a full-scale restaurant and bar—all accessible by way of both the Market Avenue entrance or immediately from the resort itself. And, there’s extra on the best way!

The Bardea Group (sure, the identical acclaimed group behind Bardea Meals & Drink) has established a major presence right here with Casa Nonna, their latest full-scale Italian restaurant, alongside Pizzeria Bardea and Bean by Bardea, their gourmand espresso counter. For these craving Mexican flavors, Taqueria El Chingon serves up genuine tacos, whereas Al Chu’s Sushi, a long-standing native favourite, gives fabulously contemporary sashimi and rolls.

Bean By Bardea

Our first cease was Bean By Bardea. It’s DE.CO’s latest espresso bar serving wealthy and easy freshly brewed Illy Espresso, espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes. You too can have your espresso made with artistic house-made infused syrups. Should you love caramel, attempt their signature Koji Caramel Cappuccino or latte, which delivers the standard candy nuttiness of caramel however with an surprising umami punch that makes it uniquely scrumptious.

Whereas the espresso alone is definitely worth the go to, don’t miss the unbelievable freshly baked treats crafted by Bardea’s proficient Head Pastry Chef Amanda Nichols. The Almond Croissants listed below are completely transcendent—crisp, delicate, and buttery, dusted with powdered sugar and slivered almonds for crunch. They’re all the things you’re keen on a few basic buttery croissant made even higher with the fragile richness of almond flavors and simply the correct quantity of custardy almond cream on the within.

We additionally couldn’t resist the mini Strawberry Cheesecake, with its wealthy, creamy filling and buttery graham cracker base that had only a trace of salt to steadiness the sweetness. The service at Bean by Bardea is heat and pleasant, which by some means makes all the things style a bit sweeter. Kate, specifically, deserves particular recognition for crafting among the finest cappuccinos we’ve ever had!

With its pleasant vibes, loads of tables, ample pure mild, and open house, DE.CO is a superb place to take a break, get pleasure from quite a lot of meals, and even get some work executed whilst you eat.

Hours fluctuate by vendor, so check before you go, however having this culinary playground related to your resort is likely one of the finest perks of staying at Lodge Du Pont!

Casa Nonna

Situated in DE.CO, related to Lodge Du Pont

One of many latest additions to DE.CO meals corridor, Casa Nonna is a casually elegant full-service bar and restaurant honoring the Italian household recipes of James Beard-nominated Chef Antimo DiMeo‘s grandmothers. Whereas that includes conventional Italian consolation meals like pizzas and pastas, the menu cleverly reimagines basic dishes with a recent twist. The comforting, nostalgic Italian flavors create a joyful eating expertise the place each chunk deserves to be savored.

The house right here is trendy but snug, with beautiful geometric tile flooring, wood-paneled partitions, and classy globe pendant lamps creating simply the best vibe. The black and white diamond sample ground contrasted with placing wall tiles provides a contemporary contact to the standard Italian really feel. There’s additionally an open kitchen, so you possibly can watch the group at work.

For appetizers, we began off sturdy with the Porchetta Rotolini. Sesame crusted rolls baked and twisted with tender layers of porchetta, broccoli rabe and sharp provolone, wrapped and plated with an totally addicting lengthy sizzling cream. The sauce was daring, a bit spicy, and it must be on all the things. Each chunk was crunchy, creamy, and downright unforgettable.

The crispy Baked Clams filled with ‘nduja and leek soubise have been a singular tackle this seaside basic. The ‘nduja, a spicy and spreadable Calabrian salami unfold added a kick whereas the leek soubise, a silky sauce historically made with onions, cream and butter added an surprising mellow sweetness. Decadently briny, and brightened with a squeeze of lemon, in case you love seafood this one is price a attempt.

Ever assume a Mozzarella Stick could possibly be refined? Order Casa Nonna’s. It’s a thick, gooey block of fried cheese elegantly topped with an eggplant parm-flavored mousse plated over a yellow tomato sauce for dipping. Like two dishes in a single and bursting with taste, this one is enjoyable to eat, and so scrumptious. And the cheese pull: epic.

Should you love handmade pasta and need comforting Italian classics, order from the “Nonna’s Home” pasta part of the menu. For pasta with a contemporary kick, “Our Home” choices just like the Pappardelle with truffle fontina cream, umami wealthy mushroom xo sauce, and tender quick rib is the best way to go.

We needed to attempt Casa Nonna’s Mortadella Pizza. The dough—first fried then baked—creates an expertly charred and ethereal crust layered with creamy stracciatella, vibrant yellow tomatoes, and a sprinkle of crumbled pistachios. It was crispy, nutty, and satisfying. That is the one pizza on the menu that’s fried, nevertheless it’s so mild you’d by no means know.

The Pork Osso Buco was wonderful. Piccata-style with garlic, capers, and a vibrant, zesty end, the pork was fall-apart tender and bursting with taste. So, so good.

For dessert we couldn’t go away and not using a style of each Tiramisu and Panna Cotta. The tiramisu was basic in all one of the best methods—creamy, mild, and soaked in simply the correct quantity of espresso, with delicate gold leaf including a contact of magnificence. With notes of citrus and enrobed in a hoop of white chocolate, the panna cotta topped with darkish and candy Italian cherries was an ideal ending to our meal.

Casa Nonna is open 6 days every week for lunch (11-2:30), pleased hour (4-7pm) and dinner (5-9), making it tremendous handy for resort friends searching for scrumptious Italian delicacies with out even leaving the constructing.

Bardea Meals & Drink

Only a five-minute stroll down Market Avenue from Lodge Du Pont, Bardea Food & Drink is placing Wilmington’s culinary eating scene on the map. Since opening in 2018, Chef DiMeo and co-owner Scott Stein’s flagship restaurant has earned nationwide recognition, a number of James Beard nominations, and most lately, a spot on USA TODAY’s 2025 Eating places of the 12 months checklist.

Named after the Italian goddess of foods and drinks, Bardea blends Italian traditions with world influences in essentially the most scrumptious methods possible. Their shareable plates idea encourages exploration—precisely as Stein defined to us: “The menu is designed how we like to eat once we exit.” This philosophy interprets to quite a lot of snacks and smaller, satisfying parts that enable friends to get pleasure from a number of flavors and preparations in the course of the meal.

The Hen Parm Bao Buns alone are definitely worth the go to—an Italian-Asian fusion masterpiece that by some means works even higher than you’d think about. Their house-made pasta dishes, just like the decadent Linguine with scallop XO sauce and caviar, showcase why Bardea persistently will get rave opinions.

Regardless of the accolades, there’s zero pretension right here. The vibe is heat and alluring, with educated servers who expertly information you thru the menu’s artistic choices. From inventive seafood shows to decadent desserts (don’t miss the Olive Oil Cake), each dish tells a narrative of culinary craftsmanship.

Reservations are essential—this downtown hotspot fills shortly with locals and guests alike.

📍Bardea Food & Drink is located at 620 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801

⭐We deliberate to solely point out Bardea right here, however the expertise actually deserved its personal function. See our full Bardea review!

Issues To Do Round Lodge Du Pont

Whereas the Lodge Du Pont gives lots to get pleasure from on-site, its central downtown location makes it handy for exploring Wilmington’s cultural points of interest and historic websites.

Past the resort, Wilmington offers plenty of things to do, from the Brandywine Valley’s gorgeous gardens and museums to the colourful Riverfront space. Whether or not you’re exploring native artwork galleries, or taking a scenic stroll, the Lodge Du Pont serves as the perfect house base on your adventures.

Inside strolling distance from the Lodge Du Pont on the five hundred block of Market Avenue, take a look at the Delaware Historical Society’s History Center complicated that features The Delaware History Museum, Mitchell Center for African American History, and Old Town Hall courting again to 1798.

For stay leisure, catch a present at The Playhouse on Rodney Sq. or the World Cafe Dwell on the Queen. The Playhouse is within the resort and The Queen is only some blocks from the resort.

When you have extra time, discover Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley’s different treasures, just like the Delaware Art Museum, the Brandywine Zoo, Winterthur Museum and Gardens, Hagley and close by Longwood Gardens. 

Longwood Gardens: A Magical Daytrip From Lodge Du Pont 

About half-hour from Lodge Du Pont

For an unforgettable day journey from Lodge Du Pont, put Longwood Gardens on the prime of your checklist. 

This horticultural masterpiece spans over 1,000 acres and gives among the most spectacular backyard shows you’ll discover wherever on the earth.

Based by Pierre S. du Pont within the early twentieth century, Longwood has developed right into a botanical sanctuary that dazzles guests year-round. 

Contained in the conservatories, you possibly can simply spend a complete day transferring between distinct environments. The preserved Cascade Backyard options 16 waterfalls and meandering paths by way of lush rainforest plantings—a tropical retreat that feels worlds away from actuality. The Indoor Kids’s Backyard delights guests of all ages with whimsical bronze statues and artistic water options that make it great for households.

Each flip reveals one other Instagram-worthy scene that can have your followers asking, “The place IS this place!?”

When starvation strikes, don’t miss the chance to dine at 1906, Longwood’s signature restaurant. This newly reimagined eating expertise exceeded each expectation throughout our go to—from the elegant house with its signature arched home windows to the impeccable service and clever plating. Reserve forward for both lunch or dinner; that is memorable, effective eating that actually enhances the botanical wonders. 

 💡 Professional tip: Book your tickets and restaurant reservations effectively upfront—this world-class vacation spot is in style for good motive, and also you don’t wish to miss out on the total magic of Longwood Gardens.

 ➡ See our full Longwood Gardens itinerary

Attending to The Lodge Du Pont

The Lodge Du Pont is simply 25 minutes from Philadelphia Worldwide Airport, an hour from Baltimore, and two hours from New York or Washington, D.C. 

For added comfort, the resort gives complimentary automotive service on availability. They’ll take you wherever you wish to go inside a 5 miles radius, together with the Wilmington Amtrak station.

Why Lodge Du Pont Belongs on Your Should-Go to Listing

The Lodge Du Pont blends historic grandeur with fashionable consolation, creating an expertise that feels each indulgent and alluring. From the nice and cozy hospitality to the gorgeous structure and top-tier eating, each element provides to the resort’s timeless enchantment.

Whether or not you’re planning a romantic escape, a food-filled weekend, or only a much-needed reset, this Wilmington landmark delivers magnificence, allure, and considerate facilities in a manner few locations can.

And for these of us close by, one of the best half? No lengthy flights, no difficult journey—only a world-class getaway in our personal yard.

Should you’re craving a keep that mixes historical past, consolation, and unforgettable meals, look no additional than Lodge Du Pont. We are able to’t wait to return!

⭐ Able to expertise this historic property your self? Book your stay today and discover what makes Hotel Du Pont truly iconic!