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Water Damage Restoration in Newark, DE
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Newark, DE is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Newark. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Newark Makerhoods at the KruegerScott Mansion in Newark, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Newark.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
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Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Newark, DE
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Somerford House Place Newark in Newark for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Newark, DE, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Newark?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Weequahic Park in Newark. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Newark, DE, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to The Feigenspan Mansion in Newark, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Newark restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Newark, DE, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Newark, DE
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Newark, DE, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Fornos of Spain in Newark. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Newark rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Newark, DE
A new Wawa is approved and a dog park is proposed in Newark
Molly McVetyhttps://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/2025/03/11/new-wawa-proposed-dog-park-results-of-free-parking-pilot-in-newark/81947861007/
Change is coming to Newark and more may be on the way, as city officials approve special use permits for a new Wawa, consider potential additions to Folk Memorial Park and debate the merits of a free parking pilot program.A long-planned Wawa was approved off of Elkton Road during a Newark City Council meeting on Monday, March 10.A dog park is proposed by the owners of Dash In in Folk Memorial Park, just a few months after community uproar prevented a baseball field from being built there.And, finally, the free parking pi...
Change is coming to Newark and more may be on the way, as city officials approve special use permits for a new Wawa, consider potential additions to Folk Memorial Park and debate the merits of a free parking pilot program.
A long-planned Wawa was approved off of Elkton Road during a Newark City Council meeting on Monday, March 10.
A dog park is proposed by the owners of Dash In in Folk Memorial Park, just a few months after community uproar prevented a baseball field from being built there.
And, finally, the free parking pilot program was evaluated in front of the City Council.
Here’s what to know.
New Wawa on Elkton Road
A long-standing plan by developers Otts Chapel Associates LLC to build a Wawa on 1105 Elkton Road was approved during the Newark City Council meeting on Monday night.
The project plans call for demolishing the vacant buildings that used to house Leon’s Garden World and Ewing Towing to build a 5,585-square-foot Wawa with gas pumps on about 5.87 acres of land. Sixty-seven parking spaces and eight bicycle parking spaces are planned for the site, as well as two proposed electric vehicle charging stations.
A traffic study approved by Delaware’s Department of Transportation estimated that 5,532 daily trips would be generated by the development.
As it currently stands, the site lies in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s 100-year floodplain. In order to keep the site’s plan in line with city and county code requirements, the developers are going to have to elevate the site, effectively removing it from the flood risk zone.
Before the City Council could approve the plan, developers had to get approvals from FEMA that would certify that the elevation would effectively remove the site from the floodplain, as well as get concurring agreements from the city, from New Castle County and from Cecil County, Maryland, which is less than a mile down the road.
The planning commission recommended that Newark City Council approve the subdivision plans and four special use permits in August 2023.
Plans for the site began in 2018, when concepts for the gas station and convenience store were first proposed to the city. Original plans had Royal Farms as the likely tenant of the site.
In 2021, Newark’s planning commission and City Council agreed to annex the property, which previously was a part of unincorporated New Castle County, as well as rezone the site from industrial to commercial usage.
Potential dog park at Folk Memorial Park
Newark officials are seeking public feedback about building a dog park in Folk Memorial Park at 98 Welsh Tract Road.
Wills Group, owner of Dash In gas and convenience store, chose Folk Memorial Park as the recipient for its Reimaging Outdoor Spaces 2025 Signature Project Grant, which would fully fund the design, development and construction of the potential dog park.
Plans for the 130-by-120-foot, fenced-in Dash In Dog Park include ground cover with woodchips, existing grass or potentially artificial turf, and additional trees for shade and screening. It may also include a dog fountain.
The dog park is planned to sit behind the existing baseball/softball field, parallel to the paved trail and may also include improved access to the Villa Belmont condominium complex.
Staff from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department will be at the park on Wednesday, March 12, from 11 a.m. until noon to answer questions from residents. The City Council is expected to vote on the upcoming project in the coming weeks.
Feedback on the project can be sent to District 3 Councilman Jay Bancroft at bancroftnewark3rd@gmail.com or asknewark@newark.de.us by Friday, March 14.
If the City Council approves the proposal, steps would be taken to finalize the park’s location and refine the design.
Community input would be solicited for key design elements such as color schemes, preferred dog obstacles and decorative fence art themes, as well as organized volunteer days for the park’s installation and artwork.
Free parking pilot fails to meet revenue goals
Between Dec. 16 and Jan. 15, the city of Newark conducted a “pilot” test of free weekend parking during the University of Delaware’s winter break to see if more foot traffic was generated downtown.
Free parking was offered between Sundays and Tuesdays, an awkward choice that in hindsight may have confused folks in the area, according to Renee Bensley, planning and development director for Newark, who presented the results during Monday's City Council meeting.
Instead of a projected increase in revenue, the city saw an overall revenue decline of nearly $19,000, she said.
However, in a Monday, March 3, presentation to the City Council, planning and parking staff said the concept as a whole was a success. Businesses reported that the program got people talking and increased patronage at the local stores and restaurants.
Staff recommended that the city move forward with approving another pilot for free weekend parking from June 16 until Aug. 15, and continuing plans to implement a permanent parking incentive period for the 2025-2026 winter break.
Molly McVety covers community and environmental issues around Delaware. Contact her at mmcvety@delawareonline.com. Follow her on Twitter @mollymcvety.
Newark, DE – Crash on I-95 South at S Chapel St Underpass
Local Accidentshttps://www.msllaw.com/2025/02/20/newark-de-crash-on-i-95-south-at-s-chapel-st-underpass/
Newark, DE (February 20, 2025) – A crash on Interstate 95 Southbound near the South Chapel Street underpass caused lane closures and injuries on Thursday evening, February 20.Authorities responded to the scene around 6:20 p.m. and found vehicles blocking the right lane of the highway. Emergency personnel assisted those involved and provided medical treatment to at least one injured individual before transporting them to a local hospital for further care. The crash led to traffic congestion in the area as crews w...
Newark, DE (February 20, 2025) – A crash on Interstate 95 Southbound near the South Chapel Street underpass caused lane closures and injuries on Thursday evening, February 20.
Authorities responded to the scene around 6:20 p.m. and found vehicles blocking the right lane of the highway. Emergency personnel assisted those involved and provided medical treatment to at least one injured individual before transporting them to a local hospital for further care. The crash led to traffic congestion in the area as crews worked to clear the scene. Officials have not yet released details regarding the number of people injured or the circumstances leading up to the accident. Investigations are ongoing.
We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.
Car Accidents in Delaware
Car accidents in Delaware cause thousands of injuries each year. According to state reports, there are over 30,000 crashes annually, with many resulting in serious injuries. Factors like speeding, distracted driving, and inclement weather contribute to many of these incidents.
If you’re ever involved in a crash, here are a few things to keep in mind:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash in Newark or anywhere in Delaware, seeking legal guidance is essential to protect your rights and ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve. Car accidents can lead to overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress, making it critical to have experienced professionals on your side.
At Murphy & Landon, we are committed to helping accident victims navigate the legal process and rebuild their lives. Serving clients throughout Delaware, our skilled Newark car accident attorneys understand the complexities of personal injury law and the challenges injured individuals face. We handle everything from negotiating with insurance companies to building a strong case, so you can focus on recovery.
If you’ve been hurt in a crash, don’t wait to seek the legal representation you need. Time is crucial when it comes to gathering evidence and protecting your claim. Call us today at 302-472-8112 for a free consultation, and let us fight to secure the best possible outcome for your case. At Murphy & Landon, your justice is our priority.
Note: Our law firm utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. Contact Murphy & Landon if you locate any inaccurate information. We will update the post right away to reflect the most accurate information available.
Disclaimer: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, get medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at this accident scene.
Newark area craft brewery closing, joins growing list of shuttered Delaware craft breweries
Ryan Cormierhttps://www.delawareonline.com/story/life/2025/04/10/midnight-oil-craft-brewery-near-newark-delaware-closing/82975255007/
After seven years, it's last call for good at Midnight Oil Brewing Co.The Glasgow craft brewery has announced it will pour its final brew later this month, joining a string of First State breweries that have shuttered in recent years.Midnight Oil's last day will be Saturday, April 19, and beer will be discounted until then as they attempt to sell every last drop of the good stuff."Today, as we prep...
After seven years, it's last call for good at Midnight Oil Brewing Co.
The Glasgow craft brewery has announced it will pour its final brew later this month, joining a string of First State breweries that have shuttered in recent years.
Midnight Oil's last day will be Saturday, April 19, and beer will be discounted until then as they attempt to sell every last drop of the good stuff.
"Today, as we prepare to close this chapter, we do so with full hearts. MOBC has been more than just a brewery – it has been a community, a family," the brewery posted last month on Facebook. "And while it’s time for us to say goodbye, we hope the friendships and memories we’ve built together will last long beyond our doors."
When Midnight Oil opened Feb. 3, 2018, at 674 Pencader Drive, it was the only brewery in Glasgow, cannonballing into an underserved craft beer market.
It was a location where craft geeks had options limited to brewpubs that made their own beer, such as the veteran beer hub Stewart's Brewing Co. in Bear or Newark's Iron Hill Brewing and Two Stones Pub.
It was a year after Midnight Oil opened when another craft brewery joined them in Glasgow with the smaller Autumn Arch Beer Project launching just a few feet down the road.
In the years since, the state's craft brewing world has grown, now boasting about 40 breweries.
But in an interview with Delaware Online/The News Journal, managing partner and brewer Mike Dunlap said Midnight Oil's model with a small tasting room and a 15,000-square-foot production brewery – one of the biggest brew houses in the state – just didn't work in the long run.
"It wasn't a friendly environment here in Delaware in terms of welcoming a new distribution brewery," said Dunlap, pointing to the state's limited number of distribution partners. "It was tough getting that moving. We always found ourselves producing more beer than our distributor could or would sell."
Dunlap, whose Midnight Oil co-managing partners included T.J. McGrath and Joe Stickel, also pointed to his brewery's marketing efforts as a contributing factor to its demise.
"We understated the value and importance of that. We really concentrated hard on the quality of the product. All of our money went into that. We brewed some of the best beer in the state, but unfortunately, nobody knew about it," he said of Midnight Oil, which is tucked away in an industrial park off U.S. 40.
The impact of the pandemic also weighed heavily on the brewery, which maintained support from its dedicated patrons, but "never quite got back to speed," Dunlap said.
For those who did know about Midnight Oil, it became a second home.
And not only for its craft beers, hard iced teas and homemade root beer.
Customers bonded with the small staff at the retro-themed tasting room, which hosted many community events along with live music, poker nights, dance parties, 5k races, painting parties and karaoke.
It has a unique nostalgic '80s/'90s vibe with a VHS wall, cartoon collage, vintage arcade games, classic tunes playing on their speakers and framed art from old movies on the walls. As they liked to say, "It's where 'Jaws' meets Atari meets Beastie Boys."
So expect quite a farewell on April 19. Doors will open at 11 a.m. and they will close for the final time at 11 p.m.
Kris V and Richie D will be performing at 6 p.m. with the Claymont Steak Shop food truck selling cheesesteaks and other goodies.
"We're hoping to pack the place and kick the kegs," said Dunlap, whose brewery is selling discounted $5 pints and $10 six-packs until they close.
Delaware beer historian John Medkeff Jr. lamented their closure.
"They were one of the stalwarts in what they did over those seven years," said Medkeff, author of 2015's "Brewing in Delaware" ($21.99, Arcadia Publishing). "Their run was pretty solid. It's nothing to sneeze at."
He agreed with Dunlap that Midnight Oil's 15-barrel brew house became a liability as competition increased for shelf space at retailers as the craft beer industry grew.
"Most breweries these days aren't surviving on distribution. It's their tap rooms and the bigger profit margins that come with selling directly to your customers. And Midnight Oil has a humble tasting room," he added. "The brewing world has changed in the past seven years and in that industry, it can be deadly if you can't adapt quickly."
In addition to Midnight Oil, the list of breweries that have closed in Delaware in recent years include Stitch House Brewing (Wilmington), Blue Earl Brewing Co. (Smyrna), Hangman Brewing (Claymont) and Fordham & Dominion (Dover).
The causes are many. Some point to the effects of inflation that brought rising costs and supply chain issues to the craft alcohol world, meaning shrinking profit margins. Other forces include increased competition thanks to newer trends such as THC drinks, seltzers, ready-to-drink cocktails, nonalcoholic beverages and legalized marijuana.
Even so, Medkeff does not believe there is cause for alarm when it comes to Delaware's constellation of craft breweries.
"The industry is stagnant," he said, "but I don't see any indication of mass closures or anything like that."
Midnight Oil was years in the planning when it first opened, growing from Dunlap's love of home brewing.
Now the network engineer, a married father of two who worked about 80 hours a week between his two jobs, is about to have a lot more free time after burning the midnight oil for years ― the reason why the brewery had its name.
"I have a lot of catching up to do and I'll be playing Dad for a while," he said. "But I also kept my homebrew rig, so I'm going to wheel that back out, put it in the garage and go back to the old propane burners for a while."
Have a story idea? Contact Ryan Cormier of Delaware Online/The News Journal at rcormier@delawareonline.com or (302) 324-2863. Follow him on Facebook (@ryancormier) and X (@ryancormier).
10 restaurants to go for Easter brunch in Delaware
Patricia Taloricohttps://www.delawareonline.com/story/life/food/2025/04/02/10-delaware-restaurants-for-easter-brunch/82674175007/
Looking for eggs Benedict, Bloody Marys, carving stations, seafood and sushi selections (yes, sushi!), and more for brunch this Easter Sunday?Easter is Sunday, April 20. Tables tend to fill fast, so make plans now.This is not meant to be a complete list of the state's offerings, as most Delaware-area restaurants are open on Easter, but here are 10 holiday-worthy ideas:Harry's Savoy Grill...
Looking for eggs Benedict, Bloody Marys, carving stations, seafood and sushi selections (yes, sushi!), and more for brunch this Easter Sunday?
Easter is Sunday, April 20. Tables tend to fill fast, so make plans now.
This is not meant to be a complete list of the state's offerings, as most Delaware-area restaurants are open on Easter, but here are 10 holiday-worthy ideas:
Harry's Savoy Grill
2020 Naamans Road, Brandywine Hundred; 302-475-3000; harryshospitalitygroup.com
If you want something special, Harry's Savoy Grill was named by USA Today as one of the best restaurants in the country in 2024. An Easter brunch buffet in the restaurant's ballroom will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. and a la carte dining in the restaurant is from 1 to 8 p.m. The brunch buffet is $75 for adults and $25 for children ages 5 to 12. The price includes gratuity and non-alcoholic drinks. The buffet includes a prime rib and ham carving station, entrees such as jumbo lump crab cakes, roasted salmon, grilled chicken breasts, an omelet station, smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, salads and a grand dessert buffet.
BRIO Italian Grille
305 Christiana Mall Road, Christiana; brioitalian.com
For Easter, brunch with an Italian twist will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., alongside BRIO’s dinner menu. The brunch menu includes avocado toast with crispy pancetta, a Tuscan scrambler, and stuffed French toast, plus traditional pastas and hearty entrées. The Mediterranean-inspired dishes can be paired with such brunch cocktails as a peach bellini or a Caffé Disaronno — a blend of Amaretto, Grand Marnier, Dark Crème de Cacao and coffee, topped with whipped cream.
BRIO also offers made-to-order catering packages for pickup, curbside or delivery from Friday, April 18 to Sunday, April 20. Guests can choose from four packages, each featuring bread, salads, hearty pastas, Italian-style entrées, and desserts. See full Easter catering details here.
Timothy’s Riverfront Grill
930 Justison St., Wilmington Riverfront; 302-429-7427; riverfrontde.mytimothysrestaurants.com
An Easter buffet from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. includes hand-carved turkey and ham, scrambled eggs and omelets, French toast, creamed chipped beef, sausage gravy, pancakes, bacon, sausage and home fries, fruit, bagels, muffins, biscuits, and Danish. The cost is $24.99 for adults, $19.99 for seniors, and $11.99 for children.
Augustine Tavern
1919 St. Augustine Road, Port Penn; 302-444-5114; augustinetavern.com
Seating for the Easter brunch is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A raw bar includes jumbo shrimp cocktail and raw oysters. The buffet also includes Caesar salad, lobster bisque, pineapple brown-sugared ham, classic eggs Benedict, caramel apple French toast bake, chicken and waffles, Caprese frittata, bacon and sausage, home fries, and assorted pastries. The cost is $49.95 per person, plus gratuity; and $24.95 for children under 12.
Le Cavalier
Hotel du Pont, 42 W. 11th St., Wilmington; 302-594-3154; lecavalierde.com
The annual Easter Brunch at Le Cavalier at the Hotel du Pont includes dishes such as a spring salad with watercress, chanterelle mushrooms, English peas, roasted carrots, and a green garlic buttermilk vinaigrette; lamb loin with flageolet beans, cucumber-mint salsa verde, and Castelvetrano tapenade; steak oeufs with grass-fed bavette, two eggs, brown-butter béarnaise, and crispy fingerlings; quiche Lorraine and carrot cake. Easter brunch reservations can be made on Resy.
Saketumi
18814 Coastal Highway (Route 1), Rehoboth Beach; 302-645-2818; saketumisushi.com
An Easter Sunday Brunch buffet from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. is $38.95 per person and $25.95 for children 10 and younger. A sushi station and cold bar assortment of fresh fish includes specialty sushi rolls, shrimp cocktail, avocado salad, and a kale Caesar's salad. The restaurant has a carving and hot station with prime rib and roast turkey. Spring rolls, dumplings, chicken gyoza, Thai beef curry, General Tso's chicken, mashed potatoes, shrimp tempura, lo mein noodles, fried rice, cheesecake and mini pastries also are included. Call for reservations.
Victoria's Restaurant
Boardwalk Plaza Hotel, 2 Olive Ave., and the Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach; 302-227-0615; boardwalkplaza.com/dining
Seatings for an Easter Sunday brunch by reservation are from 10 a.m. until 2:45 p.m., and an a la carte dinner menu is available at 5 p.m. The menu includes deviled eggs, Cobb salad, shrimp cocktail, a brie tartine, Easter ham, crab eggs Benedict, mixed berry cinnamon French toast sticks, lobster Oscar omelet, red snapper, pork chops, chicken pot pie or steak tips and eggs. Desserts include carrot cake, Easter blondie and chocolate layer cake. The cost is $55 per person, $30 for children 6 to 12; and $20 for children 5 and younger.
Klondike Kate's Restaurant & Saloon
158 E. Main St., Newark, 302-737-6100; klondikekates.com
The iconic downtown Newark restaurant has a "Bunny Brunch" for Easter with two seatings at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Reservations are required. The menu includes cheesy scrambled eggs, smoked bacon, sausage, a fruit platter, charcuterie board, warm roast beef and provolone sliders, carved ham, brown sugar bourbon salmon bites and tortellini primavera. Dessert includes mini mousse "shots," brownies, cookies and carrot cake. A children's menu includes macaroni and cheese, wimpy burgers and chicken tenders.
Deerfield Golf Club
507 Thompson Station Road, Newark, 302-368-6640; deerfieldgolfclub.com
Reservations are required for Deerfield's Easter brunch buffet held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The carving station has New York strip steak, rack of lamb and slow-roasted turkey breast. A breakfast "corner" offers scrambled eggs, omelets and eggs made-to-order, bagels, pastries and Danish. The seafood station includes coconut shrimp, peel-and-eat shrimp, lump crabcakes, and bay scallops and mussels marinara. Other entrees include dijon and honey-glazed salmon, grilled pork tenderloin and lobster ravioli. Other dishes on the buffet include broccoli and cheddar soup, Caesar salad, mashed potatoes, and a variety of desserts. Children's dishes include pizza, chicken tenders, French fries and grilled cheese. The cost is $79.95 for adults and $20.95 for children 7 to 12. A 20% gratuity is added to tables of six and more.
Back Creek Golf Club
101 Back Creek Drive, Middletown, 302-378-6499; backcreekgc.com
Easter Brunch at the Middletown golf club includes made-to-order omelets, a pancake bar, carving stations with ham and herb-crusted prime rib, cheese tortellini, salmon, children's option such as chicken fingers and macaroni and cheese, and assorted mini desserts.
There are six seatings from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
The cost is $39.95 for adults, $16.95 for children 5 to 12. A service charge will be added. The buffet includes Easter games and a visit by the Easter Bunny.
Patricia Talorico writes about food and restaurants. You can find her on Instagram,X and Facebook. Email ptalorico@delawareonline.com. Sign up for her Delaware Eats newsletter.
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