“Pull up a chair. Take a taste. Come join us. Life is so endlessly delicious” ruth reichl
I first wrote about The Grove Market in 2009. This was before I had incorporated photos in my posts. Having photos is wonderful because, we, humans, are so visual. The scenery, the colors, always create an impact in our minds.
A few weeks ago I had guests and we were on the go from the moment they arrived. On Friday evening we met my friend, Cindi, and her husband in West Ocean City and from there we took to 12402 Saint Martins Neck Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813. Tel. 410-352-5055. My guests had no idea where we were taking them. Then, the first impression of the place was the photo above taken. What would you say about this tiny place on a country road not far from Ocean City?
My friend’s husband told them to please choose the cheese pizza because it was the best. They were like….really?
Inside what you will find is a small bar, only beer and wine is served at The Grove Market. And only about 10 tables. We sat in the back of the building.
As you can see, very simple, funky and also whimsical.
The pizza story is not way off. At some point it was a pizza place. The breadsticks served are from the pizza recipe from those years long ago. It was a fish market too.
There is a protocol to get a reservation. You call, if nobody answers leave the message with the time of the reservation and day. And, give another time as well or day. If Leslie calls you and tells you I only have this or that, please take it. This is a special place. The food is outstanding.
Cash only. Depending how much wine or beer you drink the cost will vary. Between $100 and $120 per person to be on the safe side. Be prompt, and you cannot linger. The place is small and others want to experience what you just had.
I have mentioned before that there are 5 ingredients for a good restaurant; quality of ingredients, culinary competence, service, ambiance, and price. The Grove Market has all those. You’ll see when you go.
John McDonald is chef extraordinare. In a very small kitchen he creates unique dishes full of flavor. Many years ago he owned The Garden Gourmet in Rehoboth Beach. He is a wine connoiseur, as well. He truly is excellent and so nice.
Here is our group. Patrick is Leslie’s brother and he is such a character. The restaurant does not have a menu. First the appetizers, then the dinner, then dessert. Out loud so the group of tables in the back need to pay attention. When Patrick danced the Macarena, I knew we would have a good time.
So this is what we had:
Appetizers:
Please have in mind that even though the menu changes here and there, they continue to have many favorites all the time.
Crab Remick was ordered by Cindi. I have had it before and at this time of the year the crabmeat is superb.
Our friend, Jody, ordered the Beef Stroganoff….served with no noodles.
Patti ordered the Cream of Crab Soup. Thick and full of crab, with a hint of Sherry.
And I ordered a salad that could have been shared.
Wine was ordered. But, I was a designated driver so nothing for me.
Now dinner…..Patrick came out again, veryl lively to announce their offerings. A few of us already knew what we wanted. Practically, we always order their duck. A Delaware duck, no less. It was roasted to perfection wih a semi-sweet sauce and chutney. Ross and I did not want to share with anyone and the bones were clean at the end.
Cindi had the lamb. If I had not had the duck that would have been my other choice. It looked fantastic.
Another excellent choice that is usually on the menu are the scallops. Jody ordered them and look how perfectly cooked they look. See the breadstick on the side of his plate. This is what I was talking about at the beginning of the post. How they have kept the pizza dough recipe and added as a bread.
Our friend, Patti, ordered the crabcakes. No fillers just tremendous lump.
Some entrees came with the side dish of cucumbers, onions, breadstick and potatoes. The others had it already on their plates.
A few desserts were ordered. The portions at The Grove Market are healthy ones. But, it is always good to order a few.
The Bumbleberry is a pie of a mixture of berries. There is no such thing as a bumbleberry. It is usually on the menu.
And also, usually on the menu is the Chocolate Silk Pie.
The story goes like this….Do you remember the movie Runaway Bride? It was mostly filmed in Berlin, Maryland. Not far away from The Grove Market. Apparently they were looking for a restaurant to feed their crew and stars. The Grove Market fed them through the duration of the filming.
I can go on an on talking about a restaurant and its food. But, it is the people that share your meal that make it priceless!!
Give it a try. Let me know on my AboutMyBeaches Facebook page how you rate your experience. Until then, Summer 2019 continues.
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“Pull up a chair. Take a taste. Come join us. Life is so endlessly delicious.” ruth reichl
The Grove Market never changes, which is a good thing. That’s why we love it!! Located at 12402 St. Martins Neck Rd., Bishopville, Maryland, 21813 Tel. 410352-5055 The Grove Market is funky, small and you will not find another restaurant like it in Delmarva. In the summer, it opens every day at 5 p.m. Leslie is the owner. Her brother, Patrick helps. But, tonight Lisa was taking care of us. Please note that there are no credit cards accepted so bring cash or a check.
How to make a reservation. It can be tricky. That’s for sure. When you call to make a reservation make sure you have a few dates available and times. If you have to leave a message do so and be specific. Leslie will call you back and either she will say yes or you might have to pick another day or another time.
The Grove Market is small. I think about 7 tables and maybe a couple of stools at the bar. This restaurant is very popular.
At the helm of the tiny kitchen is John McDonald. John is from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and he is a well known chef and wine connoisseur. He makes his ingredients come alive and your taste buds will immediately start dancing.
There is an extensive wine list. No written menu; everything is recited from memory. Their menu changes practically every day.
Seated in the back porch with only 3 tables we were chatty with our fellow diners. Not enough time to write the description of our dishes…but take a look at the photos.
Drinks and the appetizers followed:
I only wanted a small wine cup. That’s what I got.
Crabmeat Remick
Fried Green Tomatoes topped with shrimp. I have a thing for this dish. I will order Fried Green Tomatoes in every restaurant that serves them. These were superb.
Our table full of Roasted Ducks. This is the most amazing entree. One of their most popular. It is a Delaware duck, roasted to perfection with a semi sweet sauce, accompanied with chutney.
Our Roasted Duck came with the side dish of the Grove Market’s Mash Potatoes and their famous breadstick, which is made out of the dough that was in the pizza recipe when many years ago pizza was served.
Well, I needed more photos of the entrees that Lisa had so perfectly recited. Here is where our fellow diners come into play. Could I take photos of your food? I have a blog with photos. They were great and immediately caught on to the fact that they could not touch their food until I had taken the pictures. Thanks so much for being so gracious. This is what our Maryland diners had for dinner. By the way, they are repeat customers.
The Tuna
The Stuffed Flouder with Smith Island Crab Meat.
The Scallops.
The Crab Cakes…Smith Island Crab Meat.
“We must have a pie. Stress cannot exist in the presence of a pie.” david mamet
The Bumble Berry is a pie of a mix of berries.
And, if you like chocolate….then, the Chocolate Silk Pie should be ordered.
Sharing a meal with friends is always priceless…the chat, the laughs and the friendship. Cannot wait to go back!
Note: The Grove Market is also a smoke house so when there is smoked fish for an appetizer you might want to order it.
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Time is flying by. Where did September go? The Delaware Beaches and Ocean City, Maryland have plenty of events during the Second Season at the Beaches. One thing for sure is that you will find a Pig Roast the last Friday of the month at the very popular Em-ing’s, located at the corner of Rt. 113 & Rt. 610….address is Bishopville, Maryland, right on the border with the Delaware line. Cannot miss it!!
They are open Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. You can also keep up to date with them by following Emi-ng’s on Facebook.
I have been a fan of Em-ing’s for years. I like their End of the Month Friday Pig Roasts, as well. They are popular and until the last bit is sold, they will be there. Today, is the day!! It is their first one of the Fall Season.
It is a very professional operation…catering, online sales, turkeys for the holidays…check them out!! Traveling on Rt. 113 north or south? Pick up some carry out and keep them happy while driving.
I know that for some roasting a pig seems a little….shall we say too much. But, for many it is the most delicious thing. And, the skin…crispy is awesome! I know, not very healthy, but it is only once a month.
Everything is prepared inhouse….You can get every day BBQ; beef, chicken, ribs…. rice pudding, corn bread, great pies, including some sugar free ones, and homemade sweet breads.
Grab a bottle of BBQ Sauce or Hot Sauce….pretty good too.
After the rain event on Thursday….this is an amazing Friday for a Pig Roast!! Have a good one!
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There is a chill in the air and I love it. The Second Season at the Delaware Beaches, bring so many events to the coastal area….but, what about those surrounding towns in Southern Delaware…they are busy!!
GEORGETOWN
Friday, 9/27, Saturday, 9/28, Sunday, 9/29 – “Les Miserables” by Possum Point Players at 441 Old Laurel Rd. in Georgetown, Delaware. Shows on Friday and Saturday begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday’s show starts at 2 p.m.
Friday, 9/27 – Paranormal 101 Class starting at 7:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., at The Milton Historical Society, when they host Rick Coherd, CEO and founder of Delmarva Historic Haunts. This will be an introductory class about paranormal events, activities, and investigation. There will be a presentation and item demonstrations.
If you have been curious about the paranormal or interested in learning more about it, you might want to start with a class like this one. There are other future public paranormal events that are planned for Milton. Location? 210 Union St. The cost is $15 with all proceeds going to benefit the Milton Historical Society. Light refreshments will be served. More info? Please call 302-684-1010.
Saturday, 9/28 – Annual Milton Antique Show from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. – This 6th Annual Antique Show will feature more than 25 quality dealers offering a wide variety of antique items including furniture, decorative art, paintings, home goods, toys and games, and memorabilia.
The show and sale will take place outside, next to the Milton Historical Society at 210 Union St. For more info., please call 302-684-1010.
Saturday, 9/28 – Boats, Buttons, Beans, & Beer!! – Walking & Brewery Tour in Milton from 10 a.m. until Noon. The Milton Historical Society and Dogfish Head Brewery provide a joint historical walking tour and brwery tour in Milton.
Milton was originally known as the “Head of the Broadkill” and enjoys a rich heritage. The walking tour reviews the town’s early history and includes a lively discussion of the ship captains and seafaring men who called Milton home.
The tour will also include a history of the King Cole Cannery, part of the site where Dogfish Head Brewery is located.
The tour will last about 2 hours. From 10 a.m. to 10:45 walking outdoors, 11 a.m. until Noon…the Brewery tour. The walk will cover a little over a mile. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are required. ID is required for the beer tasting after the brewery tour. The tour is limited to 15 people. The cost is $5 for non-MHS members and free for members. Reservations are required so hurry up and call 302-684-1010.
MILLSBORO
Saturday, 9/28 – 1st Annual Corn to Run – 5K Run/Walk at the East Coast Garden Center and the Cordrey Center, located at 30366 Cordrey Rd. in Millsboro. This unique 5K is a 3.1 mile course that will wind throughout a 200 acre corn field across from the East Coast Garden Center. Proceeds will be donated towards their young gardener program, which encourages elementary students to get outdoors and engage in healthy and productive activities. The race will start at 9 a.m. Registration and more info., please visit http://www.seashorestriders.com.
Saturday, 9/28 – Harvest Festival from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. East Coast Garden Center and the Cordrey Center, located at 30366 Cordrey Rd. in Millsboro. More info? Check http://www.eastcoastgardencenter.com.
ROXANNA
Saturday, 9/28 – Indian Summer Toy & Train Show from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Roxanna Fire Hall located at 359943 Zion Church Rd., in Roxanna, Delaware 19945. Admission is $4, children 10 and under are free. For info., please call Bill at 302-537-0964 or Dave at 302-682-4652.
OCEAN VIEW
Saturday, 9/28 – BBQ for Center for the Inland Bays from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at James Farm, Cedar Neck Rd. in Ocean View. Music, pumpkin decorating, hay rides, fresh oysters and BBQ. The Cost? $35 For more info., please call 302-226-8105 or visit http://www.inlandbays.org.
BISHOPVILLE, MARYLAND
Last Friday of the month means PIG ROAST at Em-ings located at the Corner of 113 & 610 after the Selbyville, Delaware Exit. More info? Visit http://www.em-ings.com, or call 410-352-5711….Pig roast until it is all gone!!
Have a good one!!
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“Colour and I are one. I am a painter.” paul klee, 1914
This quote of long ago came to mind when I visited Liz Lind Editions Gallery and Studio in the town of Showell, Maryland. So, you wonder where Showell, Maryland is….It is an unincorporated town in Worcester County not far at all from Ocean City, Maryland and the Delaware/Maryland line, between Bishopville and Ocean Pines, Maryland. From Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, it will take you about half hour to 45 minutes at this time of the year.
You can find Liz Lind Editions at 10109 Pitts Rd., Showell, MD 21862. Tel. 443-727-9042. Website? http://www.lizlindeditions.com It opens Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. During the week, please call for an appointment and Liz or Erica Rittling, her Assistant, will be happy to receive you.
I think that years ago, I stopped at her gallery in Annapolis, and at that time I was taken with her watercolors. When Liz mentions that sunlight, sand and surf are the 3 elements that inspire her work, all you have to do is look around her studio, or you might want to open her website, above mentioned, to see her work.
And, when I looked outside today, it was so pretty that I thought this day is what Liz is talking about…ocean breezes, hot sand between the toes, and pink swirls of cotton candy on the boardwalk. She mentions that those memories are always with her.
So, I asked her…How did you become a painter? It started as a little girl, buying spiral notebooks from the pharmacy, scribbling and just playing around. Later in life, she and her mother had a gallery, then Liz had a gallery…and she finally decided that her paintings were selling so well that she would only represent herself…Linz Lind Editions!!
Coffee Table Book
Liz mentions her work is a combination of many things, including gouache. Not knowing what gouache was, I found out that painting in this form is similar to watercolor, but it is modified to make it opaque.
Some of her paintings are traditional watercolors, and she mentions that others are more like a stage set, where they are assembled separately. She works on several paintings at the same time. Some take months; others just minutes. Her work is not complete until the composition becomes her vision.
Liz grew spent so much time in Ocean City, Maryland…a coastal type of girl. Her paintings show, the sand and the sea, the ocean and surfing, whales, the Atlantic Shore, and the Chesapeake Bay. Her watercolors of flowers and garden petals are whimsical…She designed the cover for Maryland Life magazine.
Her gallery is on the first floor and upstairs you will find her studio. Liz Lind Editions also offers framing.
Liz Lind is a brand name. In her gallery you will find the perfect gifts….note cards, ceramic coasters, tiles, framed tiles, baby onesies, coffee mugs, ornaments, and adult and children tee-shirts.
Liz Lind is in collaboration with Maine Cottage. Her works for Maine Cottage are printed and signed in a limited edition of 100. For more information, please visit http://www.mainecottage.com.
Please note that Liz Lind accepts commission work and she is also a great teacher. If you have any questions, please call her at 443-0727-9042.
It was so nice meeting Liz….the artist behind her paintings. If you do decide to visit and meet her, you’ll see what I mean. She was friendly, gracious, and fun. And, so were you Erica!!
Have a great day!!
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It does not fail, every time I am passing through, I stop. And on Friday I found myself on their parking lot. Em-Ings is located near the Delaware Beaches, but it is closest to the towns of Selbyville, Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island and even Ocean City, Maryland.
Already there was a line and it was not even noon yet. So, it is almost that time of the day, when you are wondering what to have for lunch and dinner.
Em-Ings is located at the Corner of Rt. 113 and 610 in Bishopville, Maryland. Tel. 410-352-5711. You can find them on Facebook. Website? http://www.em-ings.com. Please note that Em-Ings also does catering.
Their hours of operation are: Sunday 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Wednesday 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. They offer 10% off for 55 and over on Wednesdays. And, on the last Friday of the month….a Pig Roast! All day long, until it is all gone.
Baked goods.
Corn Bread…and Sweet Potato Biscuits!
I really came for their Baby Back Ribs, their St. Louis Style Ribs and barbecue chicken!! Love it and never get tired of it! Full rack or half? Your choice!!
Have a great day!!
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I really don’t mind driving distances to go to a good and unique restaurant. I do mind waiting in line to get into a restaurant, though. And with that in mind my husband and I went to meet Ross and Cindi at The Grove Market in Bishopville, Maryland.
The Grove Market is at 12402 St. Martins Neck Rd., Bishopville, MD 21813. Tel. 410-352-5055. No website. And, if you are planning on having dinner there, bring cash or check. No credit cards are accepted.
That being said and done, the next step is you have to go through the process of getting a reservation. All you have to do is call. But don’t expect to get a reservation that pronto. Well, maybe, if you are lucky or have a good friend like I do. Even though I think Leslie, the owner, knows me now. When you call, leave your request and I would even leave a second choice for time and day.
The Grove Market is very small, and so popular. Be patient. I have written a couple of times about it and questioned if it has been worth going through the “ordeal” of making the reservation. Every time the answer is, Yes!! It is that good.
This was their opening week-end for the new season. From Rehoboth Beach it takes about 45 minutes. Go Ocean Highway until the Rt. 90 Bridge. Take that exit and continue to the next light. Turn right on St. Martins Neck Rd. and continue driving for about 1 1/2 miles. It is on the left hand side of the road. A tiny little place. Check the picture so that you can remember it.
It was packed, but Leslie moved her patrons quickly. Don’t expect to stay there forever.
The Grove Market looked good; all spruced up for the season but always keeping that look that makes it so unique.
I was so happy to see that John McDonald was at the helm of the tiny kitchen. He is a fantastic chef.
We were seated in the back room which I really like; only 3 tables and backyard view. It is funky. There were lights and signs and, wow, also flowers on the table. Yes, the tables are plastic, and the tablecloths are faded. That is why you go there; so different, but the food is the icing on the cake.
In the back dining room, your waiter will take your order for beer or wine. Bottled water is available, as well.
Then, the waiter will announce the appetizers. There is no written menu, did I tell you that? Everything is from memory. Plenty of appetizers for the size of the restaurant. I could not copy one thing down so bear with me and check the pictures.
I chose the clams in a very well seasoned broth. Thank God they brought a spoon. All gone, it was.
My husband chose the mussels. I was surprised because he never orders them. I am the one that loves them. Just as good as my clams.
Cindi had the soup. This was a beet and tomato soup. The color was just beautiful.
Ross had the beef kabobs. The rind of the orange and the combination of seasonings were tremendous; so tender.
Soon we were ready for the main event. And this is how it went.
I ordered the lamb. I wish I could remember everything he said. The lamb was a very big portion. It had chutney and raisins; a little Indian, maybe? A little sweet and tangy. I could not eat it all. Served with a breadstick, which is the recipe that was used many years ago when they had pizza.
My husband ordered the scallops with risotto and asparagus. I have had them; very good, as well.
Cindi ordered the shrimp. She was a happy camper.
And, Ross orders the same thing every single time. The Duck. Well, he gave me a piece and I can now see why. It was crispy and the sauce was tremendous; a semi sweet soy drizzle with an English cumberland sauce. I will have it next time.
No room for dessert, except Ross ordered the chocolate pie. He asked for extra forks but he only gave me a bite. Smooth texture; if you like chocolate, order it.
I am going to have to take a notebook next time to write the ingredients down. What happened was that between the talking and more bla bla bla, then, hello? It was over. You got the idea, though.
Please note: The Grove Market is sensitive to customers with food related allergies.
Since I started this blog almost 2 years ago I can tell you that the majority of the time I have had good meals; but also some lukewarms, as well. I give the benefit of the doubt and go again. Everyone can have a bad night. It is when those bad nights are consistent; then there is a problem. I guess I have been lucky or easy to please.
Sharing a meal with friends is something else…I love it!!
Talk to you later….you know I will…
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What makes a good restaurant? To me, it has always been 5 key ingredients; I have mentioned them before. Some restaurants only have a few of those ingredients; The Grove Market encompasses them all, and they are: quality of ingredients, culinary competence, service, ambiance, and price.
The ingredients should be the best money can buy, the culinary competence, well, what can I say? The Grove Market has John McDonald, a seasoned chef and one of the best. Many years ago he had in Rehoboth Beach the very popular Garden Gourmet. The service should be attentive; not intrusive, always anticipating what the customer needs. The ambiance should be tranquil and relaxing. At the Grove Market it was definitely tranquil, amidst trees and marshes. The prices are just like all the restaurants at the beaches who are known for serving quality food.
The Grove Market is located on 12402 Saint Martins Neck Rd., Bishopville, Maryland, 21813. Tel. 410-352-5055. Even though it is in Bishopville, it is actually just so close to Ocean City, Maryland and I came from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware which took about 40 minutes.
It is tricky getting a reservation at The Grove Market. The restaurant is small. I think about 7 tables and 2 can eat at the bar. Therefore, reservations go quickly. My tip would be that if you want to eat there, then make the call, leave your information, and request any time they have available. We went at 5:30 p.m. which is earlier than I would have gone to any restaurant but it was fine, and it was definitely worth it.
Leslie and Patrick greeted us very graciously and took us to one of the tables in the back. Every time I go into this restaurant I just love looking around. It is funky; the walls are decorated with all kinds of adornments; lacrosse sticks, pictures, holiday lights, you name it.
Let me point out to you that there is not other restaurant like it in the Maryland and Delaware Beaches.
They have an extensive wine list. Beer is available as well and soft drinks.
There is no menu. Everything is recited from memory. I chose for my salad a beet salad with arugula and goat cheese. I have had it before and it was again, delicious. I knew that if they had the scallops I would order them as well. Last time they were so good, accompanied with a risotto and a roasted vidalia onion; they did not disappoint me. Just as good. Another appetizer was the smoked steelhead salmon. Here is where the explanation comes.
The steelhead salmon is commonly known as trout. They are a species of salmon. The land locked steelheads are known as rainbow trout.
The term steelhead differentiate between those rainbows that stay in fresh water permanently and those that go out in the ocean. In order to spawn, they return to the place where they hatched. Can be caught year-round and fly casting remains the most popular way to catch them.
If you like salmon, you would really enjoy this appetizer. Just like salmon, the taste is a little bit stronger.
Another entree ordered was the duck. It was roasted, a semi-sweet soy drizzle, with an English cumberland sauce, mashed potatoes and vidalia onions.
The Cumberland Sauce is a fruit base sauce with ingredients like red currants, port, mustard, pepper, orange, ginger and vinegar.
One person ordered dessert and I took a bite of this dense chocolate silk pie. It was very good and sinfully rich.
As usual, I have to say that a meal is best enjoyed with good company. As we were leaving, people were waiting. This restaurant is and has been very popular for a long time.
Another thing worth mentioning is that the restaurant was very sensitive to two people on our table with food related allergies; seafood, peanuts and gluten.
I guess I will be talking to you soon….
Please note that The Grove Market does not take credit cards.
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