DORCEA — Restaurant in Wilmington

I don’t usually post reviews, but if you’re passing by or driving up/down the 95, looking for some grub, this is it: love the ambience, the vibe, the aura, even though I’ve never eaten inside. An interesting menu, the staff seems attentive, cordial and helpful. First time I picked up from here was during the pandemic, ordered online via the website and requested to pick it up outside. They brought my order to the vehicle… A+ service considering I’m not exactly fond of larger gatherings, and it seemed packed to the max… Firecracker Shrimp, Spicy Calamari, Granny Smith salad along with Salmon. All A+ I don’t usually finish what’s on my plate, but this place is different: maybe it’s because they never over-season the food, which is very key for me. Today, I ordered for pickup via phone, and it was the first time I’ve ever walked in: went with the Korean Salmon and the Bateman cocktail. I must say, interesting mix (pineapples with basmati rice). Ever since I’ve moved from NY a decade ago, I’ve been looking for a reliable, clean & healthy eatery and I think I’ve finally found my go-to spot a mere 4 blocks away from home. I hope this establishment is successful. Pretty decent location, considering it’s right in front of the hospital. stop...

So parking for this place is the opened lot at the corner. The restaurant has a few spots. I walked into the restaurant. Tv by the bar. This place is small but very nice. They have some tables and about 10 seats at the bar. I asked the waiter for recommendations. He gave me the specials for the evening. All sounded very chips. The menu had a bunch of different meals. Shrimp, salmon, chicken, cajin, American. Everything sounded amazing. I thought I was going for the blackened chicken pasta. I asked about the shrimp and grits. This was an award winning dish. I had the waiter pick for me. He selected the shrimp. The dish arrived, much to my surprise. I went right in, and the first taste was awesome. Good spice, big shrimp, nice sauce, and good grits. Not exactly creamy grits, but still OK. I totally enjoyed the dish. I wish I was here a few more days, but this place is a definite must. Very clean. Great service. The cook is awesome. He will do what he can to make you happy. Great food....

Had an absolutely delicious meal here. Fried calamari app, blackened chicken alfredo over cheese tortellini, and jambalaya entrees. The jambalaya came with plenty of shrimp and huge chunks of andouille sausage. The Alfredo sauce could be called bland if it weren't accompanied by the perfect amount of blackening on the chicken to incorporate spot on seasoning. And both came with a lovely warm slice of bread with melted parm on top.

The decor and ambiance were lovely, even as busy as it was on a Friday night. And, though it was busy, we never felt rushed or forgotten by the staff.

My only (tiny) nit was the seasoning used as garnish around the edge of the entree plates. No need to gild the lily, the food speaks for itself.

The bathroom was a special highlight. Stall doors and walls to the floor, and a complimentary mouthwash dispenser, which I've never seen before. Really makes it the perfect place for a date....