Dalmata Italiano — Restaurant in Rehoboth Beach

I'm sure it's good when they're not busy. The food was okay but the pizza we got was burnt to a crisp in some spots and somewhat undercooked in others (an oven was down, I get that). Service was awful and understaffed. Was told there was a twenty minute wait and I would receive a call ( I didn't). Returned 30 minutes later and nobody was attending the register. Had to wait another 15 minutes before I had to ask a random staff what was going on only to be told I would be seated when available. Eventually I found the young woman who was managing seating and she told me five more minutes and a table was clearing up. Supposedly my name was at the top of the waiting list for the last 20 minutes. I understood that but when groups of 3-6 would walk in and immediately be sat at the table I was just told was getting cleared for me I was a bit perturbed. I talked to another woman (waitress) and explained the issue, I was told I had to wait like everyone else. I reminded her that my name was at the top of the list (in plain view) and I had been waiting for well over an hour at that point just to be seated. She got upset and told me they were doing the best they could... So I asked why people are being given priority over me despite my name (party of 2) being at the top of the list. She got more upset and told me it was impossible that anyone was getting seated over me. while this happened another table I was told was being cleared for me the 2nd time was immediately seated by another group of 4? This made no sense and I got attitude despite remaining calm and polite. I get your busy and stressed but maybe have some people that know how customer service works at the register. The only reason I stayed was because I was honestly curious what the fuss was about. Talked with a woman there that was having the same issue, had a laugh at how crazy the restaurant was at the moment. Eventually, I was seated and the waitress (Meg) was very nice despite gossiping with the fussy woman from earlier in earshot. Didn't care I'm here for food not drama. took about 20 minutes to get my beer and another 15 to get the pizza, which with an oven down was decent timing. The ingredients seemed quality I really wish I could give this place another go but the service was unorganized at best and plain rude at its worst. Possible discrimination (seemed very surprised when I tipped almost 30%) ? no clue but I would not recommend this place to anyone and hope they're able to find some better staff in the future. This place has...

Had some fantastic pizza last Friday night here. Things started off well before even walking in as we had the best luck to score a parking space right in front of the door. Place was nice and quiet with a family vibe not overwhelming loud sound from a stereo or loud crowd thus very relaxing. Had a nice IPA, she got ice tea from a charming lady. We first split a good ol Caesar salad, and I’ll pronounce it was perfect. The wife had her eyes on a white pie we looked over on the extensive website called the White Lightning; nice waitress lady appeared to approve it had roasted garlic, provolone, mushrooms, fontina just go to the website and get serious by going into the ordering process as it gives a big picture and more details. This picture is what we were hoping for but unfortunately I don’t recall so much BIG scoops of fluffy white stuff but what disappointed her was the kale chips lacking flavor. They did have a nice texture she admitted but as we chatted with who we guess was the chef, we think we might go for something custom next time. Now I ordered the Spicy Boy and this did not disappoint on bit. I’m usually a pepperoni/sausage guy but this just jumped out to me and I’ll say our nice wait lady did make sure I was on board with the hot idea (no doubt some might get this and be surprised, it is no sissy pie) but I loved the nice thin crispy crust and incredibly tasty combo of flavors. It was really a new out of the box experience. BTW, as you can see on the website or menus the number of things you can augment a pie with is wild. When I was a bit surprised at the check total when thinking two pizzas, a salad, beer & ice tea; it is not at all out of line for us going out to most any other restaurant. This area is definitely coming together as a treat with so many different places to try in comparison to the cardboard obligatory tourist trap pizza...

Located close to the beach, DAIMATA ITALIANO provides a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal.

Ambiance & Experience The restaurant was quiet when we arrived but soon filled up, creating a lively yet welcoming setting. Despite managing everything solo, the staff member provided impeccable service, ensuring the kids in our group received their food first, followed by drinks and then the main dishes.

Highlights Service: Attentive and thoughtful, making the dining experience seamless despite only one person running the show. Bread: Freshly made and absolutely delicious—a wonderful start to the meal. Pastas: Mafalda Alla Vodka—Creamy, rich, and flavorful, offering a perfect balance of tangy tomato and velvety texture. Creamy Pesto Pasta—Smooth and aromatic, with a vibrant basil flavor complementing the creaminess beautifully. Drinks: Negroni—A classic, well-balanced cocktail with the perfect blend of bitterness and citrus notes. Italian Margarita—A refreshing twist on the traditional margarita, offering a smooth and slightly sweet finish. Family-Friendly: An excellent option for a relaxed meal near the beach, perfect for groups of all ages.

Verdict With great service, fresh food, flavorful pasta, and enjoyable drinks, DAIMATA ITALIANO is a fantastic choice for families looking for a laid-back dining experience. Whether stopping by after a beach day or enjoying an evening meal, this restaurant offers a warm and...