July 2026 Newsletter

RBMainStreet
1 day ago
16 min read

This project has been partially funded by the City of Rehoboth Beach. However, the project contents or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the City of Rehoboth Beach.

This newsletter is a publication of Rehoboth Beach Main Street. President: Suzie Martin. Executive Director: Dan Slagle. Communications Committee Chair: Peter Pizzolongo. Acting Chair: Jim Mease. Newsletter Executive Editor: Peter Beck. Reporters/Editors: Dan Slagle, Peter Beck, Jim Mease, Peter Pizzolongo, Colleen Evans, Cindy Lovett, Maria Misak, Jeff Balk, and Rebecca Lertora

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Summer Time and the Living is Easy

Peter Beck

Summertime is here, and the living is easy—especially in Rehoboth Beach! Whether you’re planning to hit the beach, shop at charming boutiques, dine at fabulous restaurants, explore local farmers' markets, or simply enjoy a quiet evening on the porch, we have your go-to guide for everything happening in town! Grab a cold drink and dive into our latest updates.

This month, Americans proudly celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Our town is bursting with pride, adorned with bunting, flags, and, of course, fireworks on July 5th to commemorate the glorious Fourth of July. While there’s a lot happening throughout the summer, the Fourth of July always kicks off the official high season with a bang.

We’re excited to announce five ribbon-cutting ceremonies this month to celebrate several new businesses and several shops that have either relocated or rebranded. Congratulations to Running Company, Pazzo, Sunshine and Saltwater, Lia Boutique, and Market at 59 Baltimore for choosing our city as their home!

We’re also featuring several fantastic restaurants and shops this month: Aqua, the Back Porch Café, Egg, Elegant Slumming, and Aroma. Our town is filled with wonderful places to enjoy. Stop in and let them know you learned about them in the Main Street Newsletter.

This July, come to downtown Rehoboth Beach, enjoy a day of fun and shopping, and support our outstanding local small businesses!

Business and Membership Renewals

RBMS welcomes new member, The Market at 59 Baltimore!

Many thanks to the following businesses for renewing their memberships:

Penny Lane Mall

Archie's Ice Cream

Bernadette's Beach Boutique

Café Papillon

Coastal Corner

Sean Kelley Art

Sunglass Co

Penny Lane Liquors

Sea Finds

Surf Shack Rehoboth Beach

Fun for All! Toys

Jewelstar

Ocean Gallery Gifts of Serenity (Old Salt)

Chocolate Wave

Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant

Stitch-Stash

Modern Imprint LLC

Mod Cottage

The Black Dog

Showcasing Rehoboth Businesses

Aroma

Peter Beck

On a warm and humid June evening, Maria and I decided to stop by Aroma, conveniently located at 208 Second Street in the heart of Rehoboth Beach, to enjoy a Mediterranean dinner. I was quite excited, as it was my first time dining there.

Aroma is well-known in town for its full bar, comprehensive wine list, and authentic Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant has a friendly, casual atmosphere and offers a variety of seafood, lamb, beef, chicken, and vegetable dishes, all expertly cooked with Mediterranean flavors.

The dining room was both charming and inviting, located in an old 1990s-style house. Our waitress was very attentive throughout the meal.

On this particular evening, we ordered tabbouleh salad and falafel as appetizers. The portions were very generous—half of the tabbouleh salad went home with me for lunch the next day. However, I devoured my falafel, which was probably the best I've ever had. So often, falafels are overcooked and dry!

For our entrees, we chose the chicken kabobs, which came with pita bread, rice, jalapeños, and vegetables. They were scrumptious, and because of the large portions, some of the chicken went home for dinner the next day!

We skipped dessert because there was no room for more food. All around, it was a perfect experience.

By the way, Aroma also offers delivery and pickup, and ordering online is a breeze. Additionally, they are currently open seven days a week!

Aroma has received numerous awards, including the Diners' Choice Award 2024 and the Best of Delaware from Delaware Today in 2025. Enjoy a meal at Aroma, and see for yourself!

Discover Something Beautiful at Elegant Slumming

Colleen Evans

Elegant Slumming is a truly one-of-a-kind fine jewelry store, offering a beautiful selection of designer jewelry, custom design services, and expert repairs. Proudly located on Baltimore Avenue in charming Rehoboth Beach for more than 20 years, Elegant Slumming welcomes customers looking for fabulous fine jewelry, distinctive gifts, and warm, personalized service.

Owner Philip Livingston thoughtfully curates one-of-a-kind jewelry, home furnishings, and gifts for every customer. With a background in art history and a lifelong appreciation for beautiful design, Philip discovered his passion for fine jewelry while working part-time in Philadelphia’s renowned jewelry district.

Elegant Slumming is also pleased to offer special services for customers, including:

· Create your own personal wish list

· Enjoy exclusive announcements about new jewelry lines

· Receive invitations to special events

· Schedule private appointments for a more personalized shopping experience

· Take advantage of custom gift wrapping and delivery

Tucked into a cozy courtyard just off 1st Street, Elegant Slumming has become a favorite destination for shoppers seeking unique jewelry, thoughtful gifts, and special pieces for the home.

Elegant Slumming

33 Baltimore Ave

Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

(302) 227-5551

Aqua Grill: A Rehoboth Beach Favorite

Jeff Balk

If you've spent any time in downtown Rehoboth Beach, chances are you've walked past Aqua Grill at 57 Baltimore Avenue. You most likely have stopped in for a drink, a meal, or a night out with friends.

Aqua has long been one of those places that is welcoming right when you enter the patio. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, happy hour on the deck, or a lively evening filled with music and entertainment, Aqua has a way of bringing people together.

The menu offers many favorites, from fresh seafood and sandwiches to lighter fare perfect for a summer day near the beach. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails, and it's easy to understand why so many locals and visitors make Aqua a regular stop during their time in Rehoboth Beach.

Aqua is about more than just food and drinks. Over the years, it has become an important gathering place for the community, hosting everything from live entertainment and themed events to fundraisers and celebrations. Its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere has helped make it one of Rehoboth Beach's social destinations.

What really stands out about Aqua is the energy. On any given day you'll find friends catching up over lunch, visitors discovering a new favorite spot, and neighbors enjoying the relaxed atmosphere that makes Rehoboth Beach special.

To learn more about upcoming events, menus, and entertainment, check out their website, AquaRehoboth.com. You can also follow Aqua on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

The next time you're downtown, stop by Aqua Grill and see what all the talk is about.

Photo credit must be included. Angelo Tabbita (@g_lo82)

The Back Porch Cafe

Peter Beck

Opened in 1974, The Back Porch Café at 59 Rehoboth Avenue has been a staple of Rehoboth Beach's dining for over 50 years. Known for its creative fine dining, the restaurant offers a menu rooted in classic French cuisine with international influences. Guests can enjoy meals on the garden patio or at the bar, both of which reflect the restaurant's charm.

Now owned by longtime employees Dmitry Shubich and Aksana Voranova, who purchased it in 2020, the café continues its legacy while welcoming new diners. Dmitry and Aksana's journey from J-1 students to restaurant owners exemplifies the American dream.

On a warm summer Sunday, my boyfriend and I enjoyed brunch at The Back Porch. We loved the décor, filled with historical photographs from its 52-year history.

Our meal began with fresh orange juice and golden beets. I had herbed scrambled eggs with an artisanal sauce and a potato latke, while my boyfriend enjoyed a chicken salad. Both dishes were generous and fresh—perfect for a Sunday morning.

Reservations can be made online. Dinner is served six days a week starting at 5 p.m., with Saturday lunch and Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The café is closed on Wednesdays.

The Back Porch’s continual success is also due to the strong relationship between management and staff, some of whom have been there for over 40 years. The owners even have original handwritten recipes and menus from the restaurant's early days! Stop in for a meal and savor the excellent food and charming atmosphere!

Egg-Start Your Day Sunny Side Up at Egg

Colleen Evans

Egg is a casual, modern, family-run spot in Rehoboth Beach for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, best known for its pancakes, eggs Benedict, and creative morning favorites.

Egg is a favorite on the “culinary coast,” and it’s easy to see why. The menu takes breakfast classics and gives them a fun, flavorful twist—from sriracha bacon candy to shrimp and grits with Tasso ham cream sauce. You’ll also find standout dishes like homemade lemon curd crepes and the Eastern Shore Benedict, topped with fresh jumbo lump crab meat.

There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a great breakfast, and Egg brings that warm, just-like-home feeling to downtown Rehoboth. It’s cozy, comfortable, and welcoming, with generous portions and a menu full of both creative specials and comforting classics.

510 Rehoboth Ave

Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

(302) 227-3447

News from RBMS

Christmas in July: An Exciting New Summer Event

Mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy Christmas in July, sponsored by RBMS, on Saturday, July 25! Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and Hermey the Elf will be visiting the beach and walking around town from 1 PM to 4 PM, eager to escape the cold up at the North Pole. This is a fantastic photo opportunity for children and adults alike!

On this special day, be sure to stop by any RBMS-member store or restaurant and save your receipts! Each receipt will be entered into a raffle, and the winner will receive a $250 gift basket.

For more information about this exciting event, be sure to check the RBMS website and look for posters around town!

Margarita Crawl ‘26-A Total Blast!

The annual Margarita Crawl on May 30 was a great success. Over 1200 visitors participated, enjoying a wide variety of creative drinks.

We are pleased to announce this year's winners. Congratulations to the winners and to all who participated.

First-place winner for best margarita and most creative was Somewhere at 52 Baltimore Avenue. First Runner-up was the Sunny Bay Cafe at 236 Rehoboth Avenue, followed by the Blue Moon at 35 Baltimore Avenue.

Winner for the Best Mocktail was Above the Dunes, which you will find right on the beach at 101 South Boardwalk.

Historic Plaques Program!

The Design Committee is placing 3 historic plaques around town each year. Ultimately, a map will be available on the RBMS website showing their locations!

The following plaques are installed or being planned:

2025-

Horns Pavilion – Rehoboth Avenue at the Boardwalk

Marvel Boarding House – Back Porch Café

Rehoboth Public School – City Hall

2026 – approved but not yet hung

Epworth Church – Clear Space Theater

Pink Pony – Boardwalk Plaza

TBD

The United States Post Office Project

On June 24, the Post Office Task Force will present their application for nomination of the Rehoboth Post Office for the National Register of Historic Places. Suzie Martin, President of the RBMS Board, will present with the assistance of Emily Whaley from the Delaware State Historic Preservation Office. This project could not have happened without the expertise of Catherine Perge, Mary Jane Deets, Robert Thompson, Paula Evans, and Cindy Lovett.

News from Rehoboth in Bloom

This year's flowers are having one of their best starts in years, thanks in part to the University of Delaware Soil Testing Program, which identified an extremely high salt content plus extremely low pH in our soil. Mother Nature has also been kind to us, which helps a lot. The teams are out tending the gardens on Monday and Tuesday mornings. Stop and say “HI.”

Celebrating the Canalside Garden

Cindy Lovett

In early 2022, Rehoboth in Bloom sought permission from the City of Rehoboth to transform the area between the Rehoboth Beach Museum and Rehoboth Avenue, which was overrun with grass and weeds. After receiving approval from then City Manager Sharon Lynn and Arborist Liz Lingo, the project began.

After consulting with Warren Golde of Lewes in Bloom, it was determined that the top 8 inches of soil needed to be replaced. Fundraising became a top priority, with Senator Ernie Lopez and Mariah Calagione from Dogfish Head Brewery generously contributing the necessary funds.

Bob Arner, a Bloom Team Lead, volunteered to lead the project. Together with team members Diane Cutler and Cindy, they designed the garden layout, which included trees, plants, flowers, boulders, and river rock. RSC Landscaping removed the old soil and replaced it with fresh earth. By late 2022, the first trees and perennials were planted.

A dedicated maintenance team, including Roberta and Dave Rizzo, Cynthia and Tom Wise, Paula Evans, Sheryl Jeske, and Diane Grillo, tends the garden each week and adds new plants annually.

The Canalside Garden stands as a proud achievement for Rehoboth in Bloom, welcoming visitors to downtown Rehoboth with a beautiful environment and a bench for relaxing. Stop by and enjoy its charm.

News from RBMS Members-

Exciting Summer Plans from The Green Truck Shop

Dana Peccon, owner

We will be celebrating Christmas in July again this year! Visit our store from July 18th to 25th for 15% off your total purchase. In addition, purchases over $99 will receive a free Christmas in July gift from Beaches~ The Green Truck Shop!

On Saturday, July 18th, 1:30-4:30 pm, local children's book author Christine Quillen will be in our courtyard signing copies of her children's Christmas book! Christine is offering a great sale price to celebrate Christmas in July. Visit 33-C Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, to purchase your signed copy of Christine's book!

Beaches-The Green Truck Shop

33 C Baltimore Avenue

Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

301-491-1007

Ribbon Cuttings Abound in Our Town!

Pazzo Italiano

Frank & Louie's is now PAZZO ITALIANO at 58 Baltimore Avenue. They are an Italian Market, Deli & Kitchen in downtown Rehoboth Beach. From their authentic meats & cheeses to baked goods, prepared foods, catering, shopping & sandwiches, it's Crazy Good Italian! Open Daily 10 am-4 pm. In partnership with Second Block Hospitality, Frank and Louie’s original location is now Pazzo Italiano. The Deli market is a beautifully reimagined space featuring delicious Italian specialties. You will still find Italian sandwiches, the beloved recipes that Frank and Louie’s created, and a welcoming family atmosphere that makes the turquoise blue building a refreshed walk-in market. Yes! WALK-IN Market.

Left to Right:

James Mease, RBMS Ex Officio, Mayor Stan Mills, Vinny Lee, Kristy Mummau, Joanie Shinn, Brianna Poyer, Bob Suppies, Frank Bascio, Louie Bascio, David Gonce, Joe Hengel, City Facilities Manager, Renee Rocheleau, Kate Rocheleau, Private First Class Joseph Mulhern, Sherri Brown, RBMS Board Secretary, Carolyn Diefenderfer, RBMS Ex Officio/Assistant Treasurer

The Rehoboth Beach Running Company

The Rehoboth Beach Running Company in Delaware expanded into an upgraded space located right next door to their former location.

The new location is 301 Rehoboth Ave (The Shops at the Pearl), Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. The upgraded space features an expanded shoe wall, a new Lake Ave entrance, and extra room for a broader inventory of triathlon, bike, and swim gear. They offer complimentary 30-minute fittings that include gait analysis. They are a full-scale running and triathlon specialty store. They carry shoes, clothes, bars, gels, and other gear for runners and triathletes.

Left to Right:

Sherri Brown, RBMS Board Secretary, Rick Perry, RBMS Board Member, Mayor Stan Mills, Cindy Redefer, Mary Beth Hutton, Owner, Bobby Hutton, Evan Miller, Assistant City Manager, Carolyn Diefenderfer, RBMS Ex Officio/Assistant. Treasurer

Sunshine and Saltwater

Coastal-inspired scents for your car, home, and body, that bring the beach to you. Made to smell like summer—wherever you are.

At Sunshine + Saltwater located at 406 Rehoboth Avenue, they believe in quality, sustainability, and making a positive impact on the world. That’s why they choose minimal plastic components and low-waste production whenever possible.

So why wait for your next beach vacation to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf? Bring a little bit of the beach into your everyday life with Sunshine + Saltwater. The products are a shortcut to the sandy shores you love, right in the heart of your daily routine.

Left to Right:

Sherri Brown, RBMS Board Secretary, Evan Miller, Assistant City Manager, Mayor Stan Mills, Michelle Moser, Owner, Frann Kennedy, and Alice Henderson, Retail Team, Tom Johnson, RBMS Board Member, Carolyn Diefenderfer, RBMS Ex Officio/Assistant Treasurer.

From the Rehoboth Beach Museum

The Rehoboth Beach Museum is opening "Emerging Delaware: Maps from the Preston Schell Collection, 1628-1868," featuring fifteen rare historical maps. The exhibition opened on May 22nd, with hours Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Friday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Saturday-Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm. A $5 suggested donation is appreciated. Visit rbmuseum.org for more details.

News from CAMP Rehoboth

Beach Buddy Banter sponsored by Camp Rehoboth

CAMP Rehoboth and Delaware Coastal Beach Buddies invite gay men, trans, cis, nonbinary individuals, and those on the masculine spectrum to join Beach Buddy Banter, an inclusive peer-led group. Meetings are held in person on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 6:00 p.m. Each session focuses on a topic selected by the group, covering subjects like friendships, community, life transitions, and mental health. Join them for supportive conversations, no registration required.

Rehoboth Beach Pride

Rehoboth Beach Pride 2026 takes place July 15-19. Lots of exciting events are scheduled for Pride; you can learn about them here.

The festival itself takes place Saturday, July 18th, 2026, in the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center from 9:00am-3:00pm. Interested in volunteering? Then join this google group or email info@sussexpride.org.

Chroma: A Trans and Non Binary Peer Group

CAMP Rehoboth is launching “Chroma,” a new support and social group for individuals who identify with a gender other than their assigned-at-birth gender. This peer-led group welcomes transgender, nonbinary, gender expansive, and questioning adults aged 21 and over to connect for conversation and networking in a safe, inclusive environment. Join other queer individuals to share your voices and help shape the program. Initial meetings will be held at different times to determine a regular schedule.

News from Rehoboth Beach Bears

The next Furst Friday hosted by the Rehoboth Beach Bears will be held at Aqua Bar and Grill on Friday, July 3, from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Stop by at 57 Baltimore Avenue and have a great start to your weekend!

The Bears are also hosting a special Sussex Pride Happy Hour and Social on Friday, July 17, from 8:00pm-11:00pm at the Treehouse Lounge. Be sure to stop by The Pines Coastal Tavern at 56 Baltimore Avenue to celebrate!

Ham Radio in the Park-Sponsored by the Rehoboth Beach Public Library

Amateur radio continues to connect people locally, nationally, and internationally! On July 25 from 9:00am-11:00am, the library will present a demonstration in Grove Park with Steven Keller, KC3DSO, the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Section Manager for Delaware. Learn about how to make both local and international contacts with other radio operators, the practical applications of radio, and the steps anyone can take to become a licensed radio operator. Click here to register.

Friday Flicks Sponsored by the RB Public Library

Enjoy a free movie screening on the 2nd Friday of every month this summer at 1:00 PM. Due to library renovations, Friday Flicks will take place at the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center, 37 Baltimore Ave. On July 10 at 1:00PM, they’re showing Wicked: For Good.

Photo Gallery

Staff photographer Maria Misak celebrates our nation’s 250th birthday by sharing stunning photographs of some of Rehoboth's flags.

We hope everyone has a terrific and safe holiday weekend.

News from the City of Rehoboth Beach

City of Rehoboth Beach Municipal Election 2026

Each year, the City of Rehoboth Beach municipal election takes place on the second Saturday of August. This year, it will take place on Saturday, August 8, from 10 am to 6 pm at the Convention Center. For more details about the election, voter info, and absentee ballots, please visit: Local Elections – – DE | Official Website.

Two commissioner posts and the mayor position will be on the ballot.

Summer Concert Series

The city of Rehoboth continues to provide a summer filled with fabulous concerts at the bandstand. From fantastic tribute bands, your favorite local musicians, and young musicians just starting out, you are guaranteed to find lots of enjoyment! Check out the musical programming schedule here.

Participate in Planning for the Future of Rehoboth Beach!

The City of Rehoboth Beach is partnering with Dover, Kohl & Partners on a zoning code update, crucial to the ReImagine Rehoboth plan and to enhancing community features. This update will support new development that aligns with our town's character.

Save the date for Charette Week, July 13-17, to share your ideas on improving Rehoboth Beach! A charrette (or charette) is an intense, collaborative planning or design session in which a diverse group of stakeholders—such as designers, public officials, and citizens—work together to solve a specific problem or generate a vision for a project within a set time frame.

Dover, Kohl & Partners will host workshops, listening sessions, and walking tours at the Convention Center, culminating in a presentation at the July 17 Commissioners Meeting. More details to come.

Learn more about Charrette Weeks here: Town Planning Video

Aged Building Inspection Program Established!

On June 8, 2026, the Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance to establish an Aged Building Safety Inspection Program. This program requires regular inspections for older buildings, particularly multi-story structures and those in coastal areas. Buildings four stories or taller, or over 50 feet, must undergo structural inspections every 10 years and façade inspections every 5 years, starting at 30 years old.

Detached single-family homes are exempt, but smaller aging buildings may need limited inspections. Property owners must hire licensed engineers or architects, submit reports, and cover costs. The ordinance aims to enhance public safety by proactively addressing safety concerns and requires disclosure of any unresolved issues when properties are sold.

News from the Delaware Division of Small Business-

Did you know that the Delaware Division of Small Business has a Facebook page? Click here to learn about events, projects, and opportunities the DDSB offers!

Want Your Business Featured in a Small Business Spotlight?

Fill out the form here to be considered for the next small business spotlight!

Also: follow the Delaware Division of Small Business on social media! Cheer on your fellow small business owners, or submit yourself for a spotlight, and don't miss a thing by keeping up with us on Instagram, Facebook, and Linkedin:

Facebook: @DelawareSmallBusiness

Instagram: @delawaresmallbusiness

LinkedIn: @company/de-smallbusiness

WHAT’S GOING ON?

If you're looking for fun entertainment in town, check the following links to see if any local establishments have scheduled events. These links to RBMS members will lead you to live music, dancing, game nights, and exciting shows. Whether you want to dance or catch an exhilarating performance, you'll find plenty of options for a memorable night out!

Above the Dunes

Aqua

Blue Moon

Chesapeake and Maine

Cilantro

Clear Space Theatre

DiFebos

Dogfish Head Brewing and Eats