The best bars & nightlife in Kent County

Painted Stave Distilling turns Smyrna’s old single-screen theater into a craft distillery and tasting room pouring small-batch, Delaware-made spirits in creative cocktails, plus a few local beers and wines. Check out the cocktail garden and their themed classes when you want a fun, low-key night close to home.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 13, 2026

Brick Works Brewing and Eats keeps things unfussy in Smyrna with house beers and hearty pub grub in cozy, brick-lined digs. Everything leans made-from-scratch from plate to glass, so it’s the spot when you want a fresh pint, a big bite, and zero fuss after a long day.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 15, 2026

Locals keep coming back to Sheridans Irish Pub for hearty Irish and American plates, plenty of beer choices, and that breezy deck when the weather behaves. It’s the easygoing spot for catching up with friends, trying something new from the bar, and pretending you only came for one pint.

From the Smyrna newsletter, October 16, 2026

Adventures Await Retreat & Meadery/ Winery pours house meads like elderberry in a quiet, wooded setting with a tasting and gift shop. When you want a low-key local escape, stroll the nature trails, say hi to the farm animals, then savor a pour and call it a day.

From the Milford newsletter, October 21, 2026

Harrington Raceway & Casino is where locals sneak off for slots, table games, a full poker room, plus a sportsbook with simulcast horse racing. When you want a breather, Murphy’s Sports Bar and the Bōnz Lounge handle the bites and drinks, and the Gold Room keeps live shows rolling.

From the Milford newsletter, October 24, 2026

Mispillion River Brewing keeps things laid back and lively with live entertainment and food trucks on the patio, a tasting room pouring pints and 5oz samples, and take-home options from 4-packs to crowlers and growler refills. Expect playful can art and a Mug Club locals swear by.

From the Harrington newsletter, October 24, 2026

Easy Speak Spirits turns out house-made vodkas, rums, gin and bourbons, paired with a menu that keeps everyone happy. Think relaxed vibes, live music on the calendar, and an easy spot to reserve for birthdays or work shindigs when you want Milford fun without fuss.

From the Milford newsletter, October 18, 2026

Casual spot serving fried fish and shrimp baskets, seafood boil bags and crab legs, plus cocktails.

This week, skip the same-old and slip into Fire & Ice at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino for crafted cocktails like the Dover Manhattan, The People’s Margarita, and Spinner’s Spiced Mule, plus a lively lounge vibe that’s perfect for catching up, people-watching, and pretending Monday doesn’t exist.

From the Dover newsletter, August 3, 2026

Whether you’re team dry red or crisp cider, Harvest Ridge Winery nails easygoing Delaware-country vibes with Bordeaux-style blends, Rebel Seed Cider, and a charity Red Line Red that supports local firefighters.

From the Centreville newsletter, October 9, 2026

When you just want a no-fuss spot that delivers, McGlynns Pub nails it with an Irish-influenced vibe, burgers that don’t apologize, pile-it-high nachos, legit wings, crisp salads, and a big beer selection. Easy choice for meeting friends when nobody wants to overthink dinner.

From the Dover newsletter, September 15, 2026

Feeling the urge to trade couch karaoke for the real thing? Irish Mikes Old Towne Pub keeps the mics hot, the dance floor busy, and the good-times playlist handled by DJs. Grab a drink, call next on pool, then absolutely nail that chorus you always practice in the car.

From the Dover newsletter, October 9, 2026

Rail Haus - Beer Garden keeps it casual with a German-forward tap lineup and that communal beer garden vibe locals actually use. When you want an easy hang with friends, good conversation, and a proper pint that doesn’t overcomplicate things, this place quietly delivers.

From the Dover newsletter, October 24, 2026

Sports-bar chain with a casual menu of burgers, ribs & a variety of brews, plus plenty of TVs.

Feeling the lunch rut this week? Poke Bros. lets you craft a legit fresh poké bowl with sushi-grade fish or other premium proteins, crisp veggies, and signature sauces that actually slap.

From the Dover newsletter, October 14, 2026