Just went there for lunch and was leasantly surprise. The food is good, well presented and well prepared. I had the Tuna Nicoise and the Risotto, both were well flavored (slight too flavored, but pretty good for Wilmington). I will defintely return.
(4)
Mike P.
Excellent! Many years since I've been here, but business dinner with colleagues brought about the opportunity and served to remind me just how good Eclipse is. The Brussels sprout/bacon/nuts appetizer was large, hot and tasty. My lamb chops were excellent (cooked per the chefs recommendation). No desserts, each of us were too full! A great evening, a great meal. The Eclipse is back on my "must go more often" list.
(5)
Joanna C.
The dipping sauce they serve with the bread is OUTSTANDING. They should bottle it and sell it!! It's garlicky and delicious. I brought my boss and a client here for dinner when we were in Wilmington. They both really enjoyed the food here! I had the heirloom tomato salad to start which was good, and a bit interesting with the fried capers on the side. I ordered the filet as my meal, and asked for a substitution - the lobster risotto that's served with the Ahi Tuna caught my eye, so they were able to substitute the risotto in for the potatoes that are normally served with the filet! SO GOOD! Steak was a hair overcooked (I had ordered it rare and it came out medium rare - but I wasn't going to complain - it was still delicious)! Service was attentive. And HOT. Seriously, my server was HOT. I was a fan! Dessert was apple crisp and molten chocolate cake. Will definitely go back if in the area again!
Stopped by after work last night with a coworker. Mediterranean bean salad and a Johnny Walker. Friend had the pork loin dish which he said was outstanding. Also gave very high praise to the bartender (who was so cute it was ridic) for his martini making skills. Definitely will return soon.
(5)
Gregory C.
A bit pricier, but remember "price is what you pay, value is what you get." In that regard, this place definitely offers a lot of value. From dining experience to the food itself, everything here was top notch. I had the Ahi Tuna and it was amazing, and I was with a (fairly picky) party of 4, and they all enjoyed their meals as well. Even the organic chicken offered a really unique flavor. Selection of drinks really compliments what's on the menu, and the servers are quite knowledgeable. You can tell a lot of thought was put into the customer experience and it shows. Overall, well worth it!
(5)
Colin Z.
Very good food. Like REALLY very good food. Beautiful atmosphere, and great drink selections, too.
(5)
Ross L.
On TripAdvisor and a couple other sites I saw, Eclipse Bistro in Wilmington has had the highest ratings out of any other restaurant in town. I've been meaning to get over there for a while, and finally did on Thursday. I had originally planned on getting the Crab Ravioli with Sweet Corn Cream Sauce, since it sounds similar to the Pasta with Fresh Corn Pesto, that I've had my eye on this week. I wound up deciding to go for the Seared Tuna with chilled rice noodles and napa cabbage slaw instead, figuring that I still plan on making the pasta with fresh corn pesto, so I don't want to ruin it by having something similar now. The tuna was very good. I can see why Eclipse has been rated so high. It's not the best tuna that I've ever had, but that's just because I have a weakness for soy sauce reductions. It was certainly prepared as well as any tuna I've had, and is easily the best fish I've had in Wilmington to date. The chilled rice noodles were excellent, and went well with the fish. The waitstaff were on the same level as the food. Very professional, friendly, and helpful. I'm looking forward to stopping by again. I'm not sure yet if I'd rate this as the best food I've had in Wilmington, as a number of people have said on the various rating sites - I'll have to sleep on it a bit more. It's certainly a strong contender for #1 though. Pictures of the meail are available here: thisiswhatimeating.com/2…
(5)
John C.
The best restaurant in Wilmington! My wife and I love this place. Always great food, terrific bar and wine list, and great service. I would eat here every night if I could. Great place to take friends, family, or clients. Must try the duck -best in Wilmington.
(5)
L. D.
I ordered Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli and Raspberry white chocolate bread pudding for dessert. Both were good, but I didn't feel like I received a meal that matched the $30 price tag. $30 for just Ravioli and dessert - no salad, no drinks, no appetizer. Service was excellent and it's a nice place.
(3)
Lauren W.
I hadn't been here in a while and boy did I forget what I was missing. The. Bomb. Calamari=awesome. Goat cheeze salad=delish. For an entree I got the butternut squash ravioli which was really good but it wasn't hot enough and they put a tad too much oil on it during this particular visit.I'll let them slide this time though and still give them a 5 start rating bc I love me some eclipse. The boyfriend and 2 others at our large table got the short ribs entreee with mashed potatoes and carrots. They all basically licked their plates clean and the meat was so tender. Oh and the white cosmos are a hit! Love this place!
(5)
Jill K.
I love me some Eclipse Bistro. It's just the right amount of pretentious. They care about their food deeeeply, and every bite is jam-packed with flavor, style and panache. Their waiters (is it just me, or are they all exceptionally cute and gay?) know the menus, and most of them have been serving there for years. This speaks volumes. They won't get their panties in a bunch if you accidentally use the wrong fork... So yeah: just the right amount of pretentious. Their flatbread appetizer with with blue cheese crumbles, fig jam, and caramelized onions is simply wonderful. Simple, elegant, nom. The grown-up beverages are expertly mixed and are deceptively strong. If you're undecided, tell the bartender to surprise you; you will not be let down. In other news: They also have the sexiest print of cutlery you will ever see in your life. Seriously. Is it weird to get hot and bothered over a black and white giclee of flatware? Hmmm.
(5)
Jennifer H.
Unfortunately, I can only give 3 Stars. I had high hopes for Eclipse Bistro after reading the other reviews, but ended up having a somewhat disappointing experience. The service was good but slow -- we waited almost an hour for our entrees to arrive, the atmosphere is intimate (read: small) and has a good vibe. As far as the food goes....ehhhh...it was ok but nothing I would necessarily go back for. Two of the people in my party ordered steak - one medium and one medium-well. Both steaks were very underdone and had to be sent back. The food was good but nothing really stood out as being exceptional. As far as restaraunts at this price-point in the Wilmington area go, I think Sullivan's is the best even though it is a chain.
(3)
Alexa R.
After reviewing Eclipse on Yelp, I was very excited as it has received rave reviews. Joined four friends for dinner here last night - we were seated at a round table, which I really love. It makes it so easy to talk to each other! Eclipse has undergone a make-over since I had my post-baccleaureate dinner here in 2002. It is sleek, modern and not as fancy as it once was - there were people in flip flops and Lily and people in suits. The menu does not disappoint - I started with a beet salad and had the crabcake for dinner. The salad was delicious and the crabcake was delicious, but needed something with it aside from the weak slaw salad side. Two others at my table had pasta and two others had the pork braciole. Everyone was very pleased - that may also be due to the two bottles of savignon blanc we split. Our server was so nice, as well, and did not mind that we took our time ordering apps, dinner and dessert. For dessert, we had the french toast bread pudding and s'mores brulee. Definitely amazing. This is a great option for those wanting great service, reliable, delicious food and not too outrageous prices.
(4)
David R.
Whenever the wife and I think of going out for dinner in Wilmington, Eclipse is near the top of our list. The ambience is friendly, the lighting warm and inviting. The food is never less than excellent and beautifully presented. The wait staff is helpful but never pushy; the wine list is--at least to this plebian--well-stocked with interesting selections. What's nice too is that the chef is always changing the offerings to keep things interesting. Crab cakes are delicious with the spring roll and lamb not far behind. Put Eclipse on your must eat list.
(5)
Joan C.
First time back in nearly 9 months. Love the new interior! Food was just okay. Beet and goat cheese salad, as expected. Special was a white fish, just okay. Spouse had the strip steak, very good; started mushroom soup, not the best especially considering it's mushroom country. Service staff, although fast, was attentive to the "man of the table". Over all, it dropped as a favorite in our book. Still good.
(3)
Rachel W.
Dinner and our server were both amazing!! I had never been there but read and heard great things about Eclipse so I was interested to try it out. I really liked the look of the place, fancy and formal, yet comfortable and friendly. Great food and great service. Thanks Eclipse Bistro!!!
(4)
Michael A.
I find I have less to say about places that just nail it. For me, when a meal and dining experience is fantastic there isn't much to say as that is how it should be when you are paying a premium price to dine out. Eclipse has been worth every penny I've spent there. It's a pricey place, but for a good reason - top notch dishes, fresh ingredients and service that makes you want to tip. So far, my only wish is that I can earn more more so I can dine here more than 2-3 times a year, and take all my friends and family for a try.
(5)
Jason F.
3.5 star place. Came here with a group of friends and I think everyone ordered either the linguine or burger as their entree. I wasn't about to shell out $26 for pasta so I ordered the burger, cooked medium. Burger temperature was done perfectly. One of the few times I've seen a burger not charred or have it still mooing when requesting medium. The burger was appetizing, but not $15 worth. Gourmet burgers should be mouth watering and wanting you to crave more. The beef was high quality, but the burger lacked flavor and creativeness. The meal came with a portion of boardwalk style fries and a lettuce, tomato, pickle combination on the side. Those who ordered the linguine did not complain about their meal, but as an onlooker, it appeared mundane, insulting for a dish that should cost $18-$22. Eclipse tries to bill itself as a higher end meal in Wilmington, and by comparison to the competition, it may do just that with little effort. This is evident in the artificial ambiance and unimaginative menu. Eclipse has fine dining prices without the fine dining package.
(3)
K. S.
Fantastic, a meal that was delicious through and through. Second time I have been there (alone), and as an out of towner looking to try various places, I really didn't plan to go back, but then couldn't find a good reason not to? I was disappointed that the menu, which is seasonal, was not right on Google. I almost left because of the disappointment. But I let the bartender guide me, and had a phenomenal experience for the second time. This time, ate a seasonal salad (off the menu, special), crabcakes, and a delicious creme brulee. Last time I was there, I went more hearty, a lamb dish which is not on the menu. I will be back!
(5)
Kristian G.
We've been frequenting this restaurant more and more (about once per month now) for the last few months. We really like it. Two stand outs so far: awesome "Our Manhattan" cocktail with a nice orange flavor. We love a great cocktail and their bartenders are real pros. Also, the cheeses & meats plate: very fresh and inventive. Good bread on the table. Had the slow roasted veal ribs which were cooked nicely with a nice mushroom jus. I had a trout dish previously (which I think was a special) I also enjoyed. Few other things on their menu I would like to try. This is a really small place and only seats about 60 so reservations are suggested say on a Saturday. Only complaint: they aren't on Open Table so you have to call them on the phone (so 1980's).
(3)
Alanna B.
I stopped here after visiting Winterthur for dinner with the family. Very easy and close to get to from Winterthur. Tip: Make reservations early when they open (5:00-5:30pm) so that there is street parking (free for 2 hrs) available. If you come later, you will be stuck driving around and walking to the restaurant. A small bistro size restaurant with limited seating so reservations would be best. Reservations are only made on the phone. We had a waiter who was not that enthused and sweating profusely (gross) and the restaurant just opened. I didn't take any stars away due to our waiter because other tables got great waiters who made recommendations and overall cared for their guests. The food was very good. Creme brulee was excellent. Scallops and steak were cooked perfectly. I would definitely return to dine if I was in the area.
(4)
Carissa L.
How have I lived here for a year without eating at Eclipse? No, seriously. I'm shaking my own head at myself for this one. Atmosphere and service were just fine, nothing too crazy, nothing negative either. This is mostly based on food and drink. My dining companion had the chicken and based on his almost licking the plate, I think he enjoyed it. Didn't make him go into specifics though. Oh! He also loved the bread and herb butter / pesto that came out before the entrees, and I agreed that they made for an interesting preview to our dinner. I had the watermelon and tomato salad and a side of the fingerling potatoes. Jumping jehosephat! Who would have ever guessed that watermelon and tomatoes could taste so special?! The presentation made the watermelon almost look like a rare steak between two slices of tomato - bonus points for creativity. The sweetness of the melon, the smooth tartness of the balsamic vinegar, and the mellow taste of the fancy tomatoes all made for a perfectly light yet somehow complex flavor. The fingerling potatoes were 'crushed', not mashed, and the seasoning was perfect, not to mention that the potatoes were cooked perfectly. I want this meal all the time. :)
(5)
Sky D.
I've been back three times since my initial review and have not been impressed. Eclipse needs to pick up its game if its going to compete with Morro and La Fia. Last few times I came to Eclipse the menu in general was disappointing. It lacked the creativeness I expect in a high end restaurant. Furthermore, the food was sub-par.
(3)
M P.
Great Sunday night meal. I had the calamari (very good) and the scallops (not too heavy and fresh ingredients). Service was good.
Was looking for a new place to try for my boyfriend for his birthday and found this place on yelp. Small quaint little dining room. We started with the calamari which had a unique sauce drizzled on it...yum! For my main dish I ordered the venison which was excellent. My bf had the pork shoulder which was delicious. Good food, attentive staff, a little pricey but you do get what you pay for. We will be back.
(4)
renee m.
We went with a party of 20 for a business event. We asked if they could accommodate 20 folks sitting together when we booked and they assured us they could. When we arrived we were seated by an extremely rude host. He asked some in our party 'why are you standing there just sit down'. He then pointed us to two tables, one larger and one like a kids table. We asked if they could pull the tables together and he said 'no' and then he said they told us that when we booked they could not seat 20 which was a lie, twice we confirmed seating 20. Finally someone did pull the tables together but the host literally kept making faces at us - it was obvious to many in our party. Our waiter was equally gruff but we warned up to him after a while. One in our party asked if all was ok when he was taking an order and he just walked away while the customer was mid sentence 3 times, he explained he was supposed to have another waiter helping him who was a no show so he was hustling. Sweat was literally pouring. The food was very good but the host just ruined it he was so mean.
(2)
Amanda C.
This was the absolute best meal I've had a long time. My boyfriend and I went for our four year anniversary and this place went beyond our expectations. At our waiter's (Jason M is the man btw!) suggestion we ordered the brussel sprouts and cauliflower appetizer which is flash fried and awesome. For dinner my boyfriend ordered the free range venison and i ordered the short rib encroute. Oh my goodness! I can't even put into words how delicious the short rib is let alone the combination of a flaky crust, mashed potatoes and the pickled red cabbage. We ended our night of with vanilla creme brulee which was classic but perfect. At one point I ordered a glass of wine. I was brought the wrong glass of wine but didn't realize until after a few sips. Our waiter brought over the correct glass and told me to keep both. I always like to see how a restaurant bounces back from even a small mistake. Eclipse naileded it. Overall, we had a perfect meal with a fantastic waiter! Someone who we assumed was an owner kept circulating which was nice too!
(5)
Shannon M.
Lovely spot although only there for lunch. Eclipse was recommended and we were not disappointed. I had the roasted shrimp salad and spouse had the "porkette" sandwich. My shrimp (large, not farmed) were perfectly tender roasted. The green part of the salad is kale, beautifully dressed in a citrus vinegaret. A generous shmere of garlic aoili complimented the shrimp. I've never seen my spouse take a bit of leftover sandwich to go, but he said his porkette was so god he could not let it go! The atmosphere is very cool, even if the restaurant is in an odd location.
(4)
Dan B.
Probably one of the best restaurants in Delaware, and definitely the best one I've been to. Inventive menu that changes seasonally, great setting and service. Eclipse has quality that could rival restaurants in a much larger city, and is truly a gem in an otherwise mediocre culinary city. I order something else every time and am never disappointed!
(5)
Lin Z.
We went here for lunch because we had a $50 "Platinum Group" gift card to use, and after consulting with Yelp, I saw that this one of their restaurants had the best review. And the reviews are spot on --- From start to finish, Eclipse's food and service were perfect. The complementary bread (shipped from some bakery in Hoboken NJ, according to our waiter) was a chewy fresh baguette sliced and served with EVOO processed with basil and some parmesan -- like a very thin, bright green pesto sauce -- I thought to myself that THIS is what every italian restaurant should be serving with their bread. Simple, fantastic, beautiful and delicious. I could have eaten this for lunch. But then I would have missed their Moules (mussels) -- these were the biggest-plumpest-freshest mussels I have ever eaten at any restaurant, or even from the seafood store. They were cooked perfectly in a flavorful tomato-harissa spiced broth that was perfect for dipping their Hoboken bread (taking turns with the EVOO basil oil). Instead of the usual frites (which I would have been happy with except that their deep fryer was out of commission), they came with sauteed baby golden and purple potatoes served with a delicious, creamy homemade aioli. My husband had a Caesar salad with grilled shrimp, which he said was perfectly dressed. The shrimp looked nicely charred and were jumbo sized. Dessert was a generous wedge of house made creamy lemon tart with buttery graham cracker crust, a spoon of fresh raspberry sauce and a fluff of bruleed meringue on top. It was DIVINE. I'm a dessert snob, and wished I could have taken an entire one home. DH had a couple bites, and I happily finished the rest. We usually don't think of going to Wilmington for restaurants, because we stay in the burbs or go to Philly .... but I can see myself coming back to Eclipse for dinner. Oh, and our waiter was great. Informative, direct and honest about the dishes. Attentive and observant - - he even started to ask us if we wanted a "half glass" more of wine, but saw that we were ok with our pours - - maybe I don't get out enough, but I haven't been offered the option of a "half -glass" before. I think it's a great idea!!!
(5)
Fred W.
Wine prices are very reasonable. Atmosphere is nice and menus selections are varied and also reasonably priced. My entree - a piece of Wahoo with basmati rice, could have been more intensely flavored.
(4)
Christopher M.
Every single time I come to Eclipse Bistro, I have a fantastic meal. But, they really hit one out of the park last week when I went there for lunch and had the burger with bacon marmalde. Yes! Bacon Marmalade!!! This was incredible...it could be put on dirt and it would taste good! Kudos and five big stars!
(5)
Greg H.
Can I give a zero ? Bad customer service is why. Made reservations for 6 for last night. They called back to ask if we were planning on attending due to snowstorm and advised they were making a decision as to whether they were going to stay open. That was hours prior to reservation. We 6 folks never got another call and has to figure out what to do for dinner after multiple calls to confirm status went unanswered. Snow or not, they really dropped the ball. Also, 24 hrs later, no text/call/contact to try to make amends even after leaving voicemail expressing displeasure. Been there plenty. No more. Can't stand rude.
(1)
Anthony N.
This restaurant is another one of those Delaware's hidden secret. The ambiance is nice and the place is very clean. The waiting staff were also very attentive and good. The food here overall is good. I got the duck and it was perfect. The reason for the 4 and not the 5 stars is because of the other food I tried. My friend got the chicken and it was cooked extremely dry. My other friend got the scallops which were perfect but the beet risotto that came with the scallops were weird and not the best. We all at the table would prefer a regular risotto to the beet one they served. We also got desserts and they are very good. We got the apple crisp and it was delicious. Overall, great restaurant and I highly recommend getting the duck.
(4)
Sarah H.
I have only been here once but it is probably one of the best restaurants I've been to in Wilmington. I tried the crabcakes, taquitos, and eggplant crostini for appetizers and the gnocchi entree. Everything was delicious. They also had someone on staff that knew a lot about wine and his recommendation was good. The only downside of this restaurant is the portion sizes are kind of small so your bill can add up, but this is a great place to treat yourself.
(5)
Lexie O.
Went with friends on a Saturday night, and it was great! Many thanks to Jeremy who made it a great experience. Highly recommend the charcuterie and cheese plates and the pork tostada app!!
(5)
Hong L.
Don't judge a restaurant by it's cover. Judge it by the food. All we could say after the meal was just how good the food was here and how pleasantly surprised. From the looks of the restaurant, it appears to be a very casual new American bistro joint. However, the food shown beyond what we saw. We ordered: Mini Crab cakes - These crab are juicy. Of all the crab cakes I've had, these are the first to be: (a) not crunchy at all, (b) feels like it melts in your mouth as you eat them, and (c) full of flavor. I did not really need to add the sauces. Caprese - Comes with green and red tomatoes and they add leaves of basil on the dish. The mozarella was good enough as a stand alone app. Very well marinated and dressed. Pappardelle - HUGE HUGE plate. Can I say HUGE? The noodles are well cooked and there is a good balance in the portion of meat/sauce/ noodle. Pork Bracole - There is a theme with the pork. All the pork dishes we had were extremely well cooked so that it remains juicy and tender. Pork Loin (Special) - It was not only the pork but the peppers and the polenta that really made that dish shine. We were so full that we did not order dessert. Yes, a shocker... Until next time, I will return!
Excellent Salmon!! It literally melted in your mouth and the taste of the fish was refreshing!
(5)
Tony A.
Great service, incredible menu, very high quality food and did I mention great service? Already made our next reservation! The pork tenderloin was out of this world.
(5)
Katie T.
Loved this restaurant! great ambiance, great food, great wine. The server was so on top of it- was always refilling our wine glasses and water glasses. I will definitely return soon!
5* service; 5* ambience; 5* food. I had the Lola Rosa pear salad and tuna tartare. Both were tasty, artistically presented and creative. Not that many tables; I recommend making a reservation. As is typical of restaurants of this caliber, portion sizes are not huge. All male staff, when we were there; I thought that was odd.
(5)
Ilan M.
Normally I don't give out 5, but given the location (Wilmington, Delaware), service, price, atmosphere and taste, this place deserves it. This was my second visit, and if I ever find myself in Wilmington, definitely not my last. We had a large group and ordered many many dishes. Here's a breakdown of some of them... Apps Mushrooms on toast - delicious! Mushrooms had a nice, warm smokiness that made these a hit Crispy Calamari - I appreciated the creativity (spicy mayo, capers and olives - I love olives) but I hate mayo. Crab cakes - these things are gold. They break apart so easily, moist and tender and the accompanying sauce was a classic. Cheese - pretty standard fare, nothing sticks out except for the tasty marmalade and honey which comes with it. Entrees Organic chicken - delicious crispy (albeit a touch over seasoned) skin, decent moisture (but not melt in your mouth, which is very difficult to do with chicken, but I've seen it done), really really good jus, and the wilted spinach and red mash on the side were amazing. Last visit I had the Lamb Sirloin, which was a touch dry, but the sides (Israeli couscous and veg) made up for it. I also tried the standard seared Duck, and the Duck special - both were really good, but the special wins the day, hands down. A touch salty, but Duck is usually fatty ( = salty) so this is somewhat expected. Dessert Raspberry sorbet - same thing I ordered last time; light, refreshing, fruity, always a hit I also tried the smores which (having had it last time as well) I really recommend. Not too marshmallowy, just enough graham cracker and sweetness. Paired with the cool sorbet, this is a double whammy. The service was very friendly, they topped our wines and waters promptly, and stayed open as late as we were there (given we were the last ones there on a quiet Tuesday night). I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants a bit of fine dining in Wilmington, without resorting to standard, overpriced Steak/fish chains.
(5)
Ann M.
Wedge and crab cakes good. Other menu items did not appeal to me. Nice like place. A little pricey but good.
(4)
Michelle M.
Good things come in small packages. OK - Great things come in small packages. Tried this place after reading reviews and it did not disappoint. Had the special which was a homemade ravioli in a cream of corn and lobster sauce. It was delicate and light yet flavorful and filling. The martinis were excellent. The french toast dessert with a pecan granola topping and homemade vanilla ice cream. breakfast for dessert? Yes, and I would order it again and again.
(4)
Rev. Robert D.
Nice fine dining without the prices
(4)
Fiona M.
I have eaten there twice. . .and all I can say is while it is not cheap or economical I have left there wanting to lick the plate every time. . . So Yummy! I can not wait to go again.
(5)
Craig W.
Eclipse Bistro (Yelp's auto-search calls it Eclipse Restaurant for some reason) has been on my radar for a while. We finally got a chance to check it out and we're glad we did. Except for a couple of minor glitches (I would give them 4 1/2 stars if I could), everything was first-rate. Baby and I shared the mini-crab cake appetizer. They were great and had a nice spicy sauce (we're hot for hot food) to go with them. We split a salad (and in a sign of a first class eatery, Eclipse divided it in the kitchen without being asked) which was large enough to give us both a healthy serving. The first glitch came when Baby got her seared tuna entree - it should have been merely seared on the outside and rare on the inside but was overcooked. We called over the waiter and before we could finish explaining the problem, he agreed, without missing a beat, that the tuna was definitely overcooked. He took it back to the kitchen and shortly brought out a perfectly seared tuna portion. Not a problem at all. Being a cold winter night, I got the homey, well-prepared braised short ribs. They were fall-off-the-bone tender and were perfectly complemented by the sides. We both got flights of wine with our meal - I got a flight of reds, Baby a flight of whites. It's a great way to try out new wines and a great deal. For the price of a single glass of wine, you get three 3 ounce pours. The second glitch occurred because Eclipse uses the same glasses for both wine and water. Yup, you guessed it - the waiter mistakenly refreshed Baby's water (and we appreciate frequent unsolicited water refills) by pouring water into one of her unfinished wines! But once again, they made everything right without a fuss. The waiter apologized and brought Baby a full glass (not the original small pour) of the mistakenly diluted wine. Needless to say, Baby was very happy that evening! The chocolate cake we got for dessert was also wonderful - a nice balance of richness and sweetness, not too cloying like some chocolat desserts. All in all, a great dining experience - great food, relaxing atmosphere, and good, unpretentious service. We're definitely putting Eclipse on our list of go-to places.
(4)
Bilal M.
The food is great and presented well. Try the pulled pork taco appetizer. The waiters are laid back and very friendly. I highly recommend this place.
(5)
Carson F.
Delaware does not have an overwhelming number of high-end spots. Eclipse Is a great small romantic bistro with very good food and pretty good service. I eat here a couple times a month and I have never been dissspointed with the food. The service can sometimes be off, but always friendly and usually spot on. The menu doesn't change to often, but the specials are usually interesting. The wine menu is a bit small for my taste; however, what they have is good. Great cozy date spot that is in my top 10 for Delaware without question.
(4)
Leesa W.
S'mores Bread Pudding! OMG!!
(5)
helen a.
Bistro catch , lamb,spring roll, crab cakes , tiramisu what a crazy combination of foodbut it worked the chef's spices and the quality was a special treat . The service was pleasant and professional . We had a bottle of wine which was just ok . It's value at the restaurant was$32 & at any wine shop under $10. My advice have a great bottle or cocktail before you go. The small cozy spot is a definite place to experience if your are in North Wilmington.
(4)
Richard D.
I had high hopes for this restaurant given the high ratings in Yelp and even my lunch companion who is a local gave the thumbs up. I was looking forward to some great food. The fact that this was lunch on a Monday may have contributed to the almost dead dining area but at the end of the meal, methinks it may be something else... We decided to keep our meal simple and my friend ordered the chopped salad while I ordered the veal ravioli. The chopped salad required some considerable extra chopping after arriving despite my friend enquiring about how chopped it was. It clearly didn't make too much of an impression either as only half the dish was eaten. My ravioli arrived looking rather sparse and considering it was in the mains section of the menu and priced at $17 I expected a bit more than five 'pillows' of veal and pasta. Never mind, it's not about the quantity but rather the taste so after the first bite I was pleased that I didn't have to consume much of it (my mother taught me to always eat everything on the plate otherwise I'm wasting food). The pasta was slightly undercooked and the filling was lacking in any joyful flavors. If I'm not mistaken I would place a wager that the ravioli is bought frozen and heated to order making the sauce the main focus of the dish. And it's true, the sauce was flavorful. It was just a shame that the sauce didn't adequately compensate for the blandness of the pasta. As an aside, I asked for a glass of mineral water with lemon and lime and the waiter produced a bottle of Pellegrino and a small plate with a slice of lime and a few slices of lemon on it. He was kind enough to pour the water into the glass but adding the citrus fruit was my problem. I suppose those that are happy to drink regular soda only have to buy it by the glass whereas I was forced to pay $6 for deciding to choose mineral water. I will admit I didn't raise my concerns with the server as I didn't wish to spoil the time I had to see my friend. I also provided a generous tip which is customary but that's the last cent I'll spend at this bistro.
(2)
Michael P.
3 and1/2 stars would be the correct ranking. There is a lot to like about Eclipse: intimate, yet not claustrophobic; servers are knowledgable and professional; god wine list; and the food was above average. Lamb sirloin and tilefish special were superb. The short rib taco was delicious and coupled with a salad would be a decent meal. We will return.
(3)
Trauts N.
Good, well prepared food. The calamari appetizer is one of the best I have had. Frequently take business guests here.
(4)
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Address :1020 N Union St,Ste B
Wilmington, DE, 19805
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes
Larry C.
Just went there for lunch and was leasantly surprise. The food is good, well presented and well prepared. I had the Tuna Nicoise and the Risotto, both were well flavored (slight too flavored, but pretty good for Wilmington). I will defintely return.
(4)Mike P.
Excellent! Many years since I've been here, but business dinner with colleagues brought about the opportunity and served to remind me just how good Eclipse is. The Brussels sprout/bacon/nuts appetizer was large, hot and tasty. My lamb chops were excellent (cooked per the chefs recommendation). No desserts, each of us were too full! A great evening, a great meal. The Eclipse is back on my "must go more often" list.
(5)Joanna C.
The dipping sauce they serve with the bread is OUTSTANDING. They should bottle it and sell it!! It's garlicky and delicious. I brought my boss and a client here for dinner when we were in Wilmington. They both really enjoyed the food here! I had the heirloom tomato salad to start which was good, and a bit interesting with the fried capers on the side. I ordered the filet as my meal, and asked for a substitution - the lobster risotto that's served with the Ahi Tuna caught my eye, so they were able to substitute the risotto in for the potatoes that are normally served with the filet! SO GOOD! Steak was a hair overcooked (I had ordered it rare and it came out medium rare - but I wasn't going to complain - it was still delicious)! Service was attentive. And HOT. Seriously, my server was HOT. I was a fan! Dessert was apple crisp and molten chocolate cake. Will definitely go back if in the area again!
(5)Ellen A.
Who would have thought that a small bistro in Wilmington DE would be better than most of the fancy restaurants near me in Washington DC? Eclipse is perfect -- small size, decent acoustics, professional servers and some of the best food I've eaten in a long time. The menu was varied enough to satisfy my elderly parents and my college-aged daughter and her friend. The lobster flatbread was delicious -- with bits of beets and huge chunks of fresh lobster. Perfection on a plate! My scallops tempura and sautéed kale and cauliflower was a bit salty but otherwise delicious. And the rest of my family was delighted with everything they ordered. The restaurant was lit with twinkly lights and the atmosphere was lovely. I can't say enough about how much we all enjoyed our Saturday night dinner at Eclipse Bistro. And we all vowed that the next time we're in Wilmington, we will return!
(5)Andrew R.
Stopped by after work last night with a coworker. Mediterranean bean salad and a Johnny Walker. Friend had the pork loin dish which he said was outstanding. Also gave very high praise to the bartender (who was so cute it was ridic) for his martini making skills. Definitely will return soon.
(5)Gregory C.
A bit pricier, but remember "price is what you pay, value is what you get." In that regard, this place definitely offers a lot of value. From dining experience to the food itself, everything here was top notch. I had the Ahi Tuna and it was amazing, and I was with a (fairly picky) party of 4, and they all enjoyed their meals as well. Even the organic chicken offered a really unique flavor. Selection of drinks really compliments what's on the menu, and the servers are quite knowledgeable. You can tell a lot of thought was put into the customer experience and it shows. Overall, well worth it!
(5)Colin Z.
Very good food. Like REALLY very good food. Beautiful atmosphere, and great drink selections, too.
(5)Ross L.
On TripAdvisor and a couple other sites I saw, Eclipse Bistro in Wilmington has had the highest ratings out of any other restaurant in town. I've been meaning to get over there for a while, and finally did on Thursday. I had originally planned on getting the Crab Ravioli with Sweet Corn Cream Sauce, since it sounds similar to the Pasta with Fresh Corn Pesto, that I've had my eye on this week. I wound up deciding to go for the Seared Tuna with chilled rice noodles and napa cabbage slaw instead, figuring that I still plan on making the pasta with fresh corn pesto, so I don't want to ruin it by having something similar now. The tuna was very good. I can see why Eclipse has been rated so high. It's not the best tuna that I've ever had, but that's just because I have a weakness for soy sauce reductions. It was certainly prepared as well as any tuna I've had, and is easily the best fish I've had in Wilmington to date. The chilled rice noodles were excellent, and went well with the fish. The waitstaff were on the same level as the food. Very professional, friendly, and helpful. I'm looking forward to stopping by again. I'm not sure yet if I'd rate this as the best food I've had in Wilmington, as a number of people have said on the various rating sites - I'll have to sleep on it a bit more. It's certainly a strong contender for #1 though. Pictures of the meail are available here: thisiswhatimeating.com/2…
(5)John C.
The best restaurant in Wilmington! My wife and I love this place. Always great food, terrific bar and wine list, and great service. I would eat here every night if I could. Great place to take friends, family, or clients. Must try the duck -best in Wilmington.
(5)L. D.
I ordered Homemade Butternut Squash Ravioli and Raspberry white chocolate bread pudding for dessert. Both were good, but I didn't feel like I received a meal that matched the $30 price tag. $30 for just Ravioli and dessert - no salad, no drinks, no appetizer. Service was excellent and it's a nice place.
(3)Lauren W.
I hadn't been here in a while and boy did I forget what I was missing. The. Bomb. Calamari=awesome. Goat cheeze salad=delish. For an entree I got the butternut squash ravioli which was really good but it wasn't hot enough and they put a tad too much oil on it during this particular visit.I'll let them slide this time though and still give them a 5 start rating bc I love me some eclipse. The boyfriend and 2 others at our large table got the short ribs entreee with mashed potatoes and carrots. They all basically licked their plates clean and the meat was so tender. Oh and the white cosmos are a hit! Love this place!
(5)Jill K.
I love me some Eclipse Bistro. It's just the right amount of pretentious. They care about their food deeeeply, and every bite is jam-packed with flavor, style and panache. Their waiters (is it just me, or are they all exceptionally cute and gay?) know the menus, and most of them have been serving there for years. This speaks volumes. They won't get their panties in a bunch if you accidentally use the wrong fork... So yeah: just the right amount of pretentious. Their flatbread appetizer with with blue cheese crumbles, fig jam, and caramelized onions is simply wonderful. Simple, elegant, nom. The grown-up beverages are expertly mixed and are deceptively strong. If you're undecided, tell the bartender to surprise you; you will not be let down. In other news: They also have the sexiest print of cutlery you will ever see in your life. Seriously. Is it weird to get hot and bothered over a black and white giclee of flatware? Hmmm.
(5)Jennifer H.
Unfortunately, I can only give 3 Stars. I had high hopes for Eclipse Bistro after reading the other reviews, but ended up having a somewhat disappointing experience. The service was good but slow -- we waited almost an hour for our entrees to arrive, the atmosphere is intimate (read: small) and has a good vibe. As far as the food goes....ehhhh...it was ok but nothing I would necessarily go back for. Two of the people in my party ordered steak - one medium and one medium-well. Both steaks were very underdone and had to be sent back. The food was good but nothing really stood out as being exceptional. As far as restaraunts at this price-point in the Wilmington area go, I think Sullivan's is the best even though it is a chain.
(3)Alexa R.
After reviewing Eclipse on Yelp, I was very excited as it has received rave reviews. Joined four friends for dinner here last night - we were seated at a round table, which I really love. It makes it so easy to talk to each other! Eclipse has undergone a make-over since I had my post-baccleaureate dinner here in 2002. It is sleek, modern and not as fancy as it once was - there were people in flip flops and Lily and people in suits. The menu does not disappoint - I started with a beet salad and had the crabcake for dinner. The salad was delicious and the crabcake was delicious, but needed something with it aside from the weak slaw salad side. Two others at my table had pasta and two others had the pork braciole. Everyone was very pleased - that may also be due to the two bottles of savignon blanc we split. Our server was so nice, as well, and did not mind that we took our time ordering apps, dinner and dessert. For dessert, we had the french toast bread pudding and s'mores brulee. Definitely amazing. This is a great option for those wanting great service, reliable, delicious food and not too outrageous prices.
(4)David R.
Whenever the wife and I think of going out for dinner in Wilmington, Eclipse is near the top of our list. The ambience is friendly, the lighting warm and inviting. The food is never less than excellent and beautifully presented. The wait staff is helpful but never pushy; the wine list is--at least to this plebian--well-stocked with interesting selections. What's nice too is that the chef is always changing the offerings to keep things interesting. Crab cakes are delicious with the spring roll and lamb not far behind. Put Eclipse on your must eat list.
(5)Joan C.
First time back in nearly 9 months. Love the new interior! Food was just okay. Beet and goat cheese salad, as expected. Special was a white fish, just okay. Spouse had the strip steak, very good; started mushroom soup, not the best especially considering it's mushroom country. Service staff, although fast, was attentive to the "man of the table". Over all, it dropped as a favorite in our book. Still good.
(3)Rachel W.
Dinner and our server were both amazing!! I had never been there but read and heard great things about Eclipse so I was interested to try it out. I really liked the look of the place, fancy and formal, yet comfortable and friendly. Great food and great service. Thanks Eclipse Bistro!!!
(4)Michael A.
I find I have less to say about places that just nail it. For me, when a meal and dining experience is fantastic there isn't much to say as that is how it should be when you are paying a premium price to dine out. Eclipse has been worth every penny I've spent there. It's a pricey place, but for a good reason - top notch dishes, fresh ingredients and service that makes you want to tip. So far, my only wish is that I can earn more more so I can dine here more than 2-3 times a year, and take all my friends and family for a try.
(5)Jason F.
3.5 star place. Came here with a group of friends and I think everyone ordered either the linguine or burger as their entree. I wasn't about to shell out $26 for pasta so I ordered the burger, cooked medium. Burger temperature was done perfectly. One of the few times I've seen a burger not charred or have it still mooing when requesting medium. The burger was appetizing, but not $15 worth. Gourmet burgers should be mouth watering and wanting you to crave more. The beef was high quality, but the burger lacked flavor and creativeness. The meal came with a portion of boardwalk style fries and a lettuce, tomato, pickle combination on the side. Those who ordered the linguine did not complain about their meal, but as an onlooker, it appeared mundane, insulting for a dish that should cost $18-$22. Eclipse tries to bill itself as a higher end meal in Wilmington, and by comparison to the competition, it may do just that with little effort. This is evident in the artificial ambiance and unimaginative menu. Eclipse has fine dining prices without the fine dining package.
(3)K. S.
Fantastic, a meal that was delicious through and through. Second time I have been there (alone), and as an out of towner looking to try various places, I really didn't plan to go back, but then couldn't find a good reason not to? I was disappointed that the menu, which is seasonal, was not right on Google. I almost left because of the disappointment. But I let the bartender guide me, and had a phenomenal experience for the second time. This time, ate a seasonal salad (off the menu, special), crabcakes, and a delicious creme brulee. Last time I was there, I went more hearty, a lamb dish which is not on the menu. I will be back!
(5)Kristian G.
We've been frequenting this restaurant more and more (about once per month now) for the last few months. We really like it. Two stand outs so far: awesome "Our Manhattan" cocktail with a nice orange flavor. We love a great cocktail and their bartenders are real pros. Also, the cheeses & meats plate: very fresh and inventive. Good bread on the table. Had the slow roasted veal ribs which were cooked nicely with a nice mushroom jus. I had a trout dish previously (which I think was a special) I also enjoyed. Few other things on their menu I would like to try. This is a really small place and only seats about 60 so reservations are suggested say on a Saturday. Only complaint: they aren't on Open Table so you have to call them on the phone (so 1980's).
(3)Alanna B.
I stopped here after visiting Winterthur for dinner with the family. Very easy and close to get to from Winterthur. Tip: Make reservations early when they open (5:00-5:30pm) so that there is street parking (free for 2 hrs) available. If you come later, you will be stuck driving around and walking to the restaurant. A small bistro size restaurant with limited seating so reservations would be best. Reservations are only made on the phone. We had a waiter who was not that enthused and sweating profusely (gross) and the restaurant just opened. I didn't take any stars away due to our waiter because other tables got great waiters who made recommendations and overall cared for their guests. The food was very good. Creme brulee was excellent. Scallops and steak were cooked perfectly. I would definitely return to dine if I was in the area.
(4)Carissa L.
How have I lived here for a year without eating at Eclipse? No, seriously. I'm shaking my own head at myself for this one. Atmosphere and service were just fine, nothing too crazy, nothing negative either. This is mostly based on food and drink. My dining companion had the chicken and based on his almost licking the plate, I think he enjoyed it. Didn't make him go into specifics though. Oh! He also loved the bread and herb butter / pesto that came out before the entrees, and I agreed that they made for an interesting preview to our dinner. I had the watermelon and tomato salad and a side of the fingerling potatoes. Jumping jehosephat! Who would have ever guessed that watermelon and tomatoes could taste so special?! The presentation made the watermelon almost look like a rare steak between two slices of tomato - bonus points for creativity. The sweetness of the melon, the smooth tartness of the balsamic vinegar, and the mellow taste of the fancy tomatoes all made for a perfectly light yet somehow complex flavor. The fingerling potatoes were 'crushed', not mashed, and the seasoning was perfect, not to mention that the potatoes were cooked perfectly. I want this meal all the time. :)
(5)Sky D.
I've been back three times since my initial review and have not been impressed. Eclipse needs to pick up its game if its going to compete with Morro and La Fia. Last few times I came to Eclipse the menu in general was disappointing. It lacked the creativeness I expect in a high end restaurant. Furthermore, the food was sub-par.
(3)M P.
Great Sunday night meal. I had the calamari (very good) and the scallops (not too heavy and fresh ingredients). Service was good.
(4)Kevin M.
Quite possibly the best seafood meals I've ever had. In a city where there aren't many options for restaurants or anything else for that matter, this place is an absolute gem. Stopped here during a business trip to Wilmington and had lunch. All I can say is that the yelp reviews are spot on. I had an order of the petite crab cakes for an appetizer and the lobster broil for an entrée. The crab cakes were right up there with some of the best I've ever had. Very tender, not over cooked and the remoulade sauce that came with it was delicious. Pretty much perfect. The lobster broil consisted of mussels, shrimp, spicy sausage and potatoes in a fennel broth with a piece of bread. The entire thing was perfect. One of the meats could have easily been subpar compared to the others, but everything was delicious, especially the sausage. I must admit, I was skeptical about the sausage mixed in with all that seafood, but it was delicious. The broths was delicious as well and everything pretty much mixed perfectly. Hard to accomplish, but this place provided a perfect experience. Food, service and atmosphere. 100% recommended and I'll certainly be back here on my next stop in Delaware.
(5)Sheila D.
Was looking for a new place to try for my boyfriend for his birthday and found this place on yelp. Small quaint little dining room. We started with the calamari which had a unique sauce drizzled on it...yum! For my main dish I ordered the venison which was excellent. My bf had the pork shoulder which was delicious. Good food, attentive staff, a little pricey but you do get what you pay for. We will be back.
(4)renee m.
We went with a party of 20 for a business event. We asked if they could accommodate 20 folks sitting together when we booked and they assured us they could. When we arrived we were seated by an extremely rude host. He asked some in our party 'why are you standing there just sit down'. He then pointed us to two tables, one larger and one like a kids table. We asked if they could pull the tables together and he said 'no' and then he said they told us that when we booked they could not seat 20 which was a lie, twice we confirmed seating 20. Finally someone did pull the tables together but the host literally kept making faces at us - it was obvious to many in our party. Our waiter was equally gruff but we warned up to him after a while. One in our party asked if all was ok when he was taking an order and he just walked away while the customer was mid sentence 3 times, he explained he was supposed to have another waiter helping him who was a no show so he was hustling. Sweat was literally pouring. The food was very good but the host just ruined it he was so mean.
(2)Amanda C.
This was the absolute best meal I've had a long time. My boyfriend and I went for our four year anniversary and this place went beyond our expectations. At our waiter's (Jason M is the man btw!) suggestion we ordered the brussel sprouts and cauliflower appetizer which is flash fried and awesome. For dinner my boyfriend ordered the free range venison and i ordered the short rib encroute. Oh my goodness! I can't even put into words how delicious the short rib is let alone the combination of a flaky crust, mashed potatoes and the pickled red cabbage. We ended our night of with vanilla creme brulee which was classic but perfect. At one point I ordered a glass of wine. I was brought the wrong glass of wine but didn't realize until after a few sips. Our waiter brought over the correct glass and told me to keep both. I always like to see how a restaurant bounces back from even a small mistake. Eclipse naileded it. Overall, we had a perfect meal with a fantastic waiter! Someone who we assumed was an owner kept circulating which was nice too!
(5)Shannon M.
Lovely spot although only there for lunch. Eclipse was recommended and we were not disappointed. I had the roasted shrimp salad and spouse had the "porkette" sandwich. My shrimp (large, not farmed) were perfectly tender roasted. The green part of the salad is kale, beautifully dressed in a citrus vinegaret. A generous shmere of garlic aoili complimented the shrimp. I've never seen my spouse take a bit of leftover sandwich to go, but he said his porkette was so god he could not let it go! The atmosphere is very cool, even if the restaurant is in an odd location.
(4)Dan B.
Probably one of the best restaurants in Delaware, and definitely the best one I've been to. Inventive menu that changes seasonally, great setting and service. Eclipse has quality that could rival restaurants in a much larger city, and is truly a gem in an otherwise mediocre culinary city. I order something else every time and am never disappointed!
(5)Lin Z.
We went here for lunch because we had a $50 "Platinum Group" gift card to use, and after consulting with Yelp, I saw that this one of their restaurants had the best review. And the reviews are spot on --- From start to finish, Eclipse's food and service were perfect. The complementary bread (shipped from some bakery in Hoboken NJ, according to our waiter) was a chewy fresh baguette sliced and served with EVOO processed with basil and some parmesan -- like a very thin, bright green pesto sauce -- I thought to myself that THIS is what every italian restaurant should be serving with their bread. Simple, fantastic, beautiful and delicious. I could have eaten this for lunch. But then I would have missed their Moules (mussels) -- these were the biggest-plumpest-freshest mussels I have ever eaten at any restaurant, or even from the seafood store. They were cooked perfectly in a flavorful tomato-harissa spiced broth that was perfect for dipping their Hoboken bread (taking turns with the EVOO basil oil). Instead of the usual frites (which I would have been happy with except that their deep fryer was out of commission), they came with sauteed baby golden and purple potatoes served with a delicious, creamy homemade aioli. My husband had a Caesar salad with grilled shrimp, which he said was perfectly dressed. The shrimp looked nicely charred and were jumbo sized. Dessert was a generous wedge of house made creamy lemon tart with buttery graham cracker crust, a spoon of fresh raspberry sauce and a fluff of bruleed meringue on top. It was DIVINE. I'm a dessert snob, and wished I could have taken an entire one home. DH had a couple bites, and I happily finished the rest. We usually don't think of going to Wilmington for restaurants, because we stay in the burbs or go to Philly .... but I can see myself coming back to Eclipse for dinner. Oh, and our waiter was great. Informative, direct and honest about the dishes. Attentive and observant - - he even started to ask us if we wanted a "half glass" more of wine, but saw that we were ok with our pours - - maybe I don't get out enough, but I haven't been offered the option of a "half -glass" before. I think it's a great idea!!!
(5)Fred W.
Wine prices are very reasonable. Atmosphere is nice and menus selections are varied and also reasonably priced. My entree - a piece of Wahoo with basmati rice, could have been more intensely flavored.
(4)Christopher M.
Every single time I come to Eclipse Bistro, I have a fantastic meal. But, they really hit one out of the park last week when I went there for lunch and had the burger with bacon marmalde. Yes! Bacon Marmalade!!! This was incredible...it could be put on dirt and it would taste good! Kudos and five big stars!
(5)Greg H.
Can I give a zero ? Bad customer service is why. Made reservations for 6 for last night. They called back to ask if we were planning on attending due to snowstorm and advised they were making a decision as to whether they were going to stay open. That was hours prior to reservation. We 6 folks never got another call and has to figure out what to do for dinner after multiple calls to confirm status went unanswered. Snow or not, they really dropped the ball. Also, 24 hrs later, no text/call/contact to try to make amends even after leaving voicemail expressing displeasure. Been there plenty. No more. Can't stand rude.
(1)Anthony N.
This restaurant is another one of those Delaware's hidden secret. The ambiance is nice and the place is very clean. The waiting staff were also very attentive and good. The food here overall is good. I got the duck and it was perfect. The reason for the 4 and not the 5 stars is because of the other food I tried. My friend got the chicken and it was cooked extremely dry. My other friend got the scallops which were perfect but the beet risotto that came with the scallops were weird and not the best. We all at the table would prefer a regular risotto to the beet one they served. We also got desserts and they are very good. We got the apple crisp and it was delicious. Overall, great restaurant and I highly recommend getting the duck.
(4)Sarah H.
I have only been here once but it is probably one of the best restaurants I've been to in Wilmington. I tried the crabcakes, taquitos, and eggplant crostini for appetizers and the gnocchi entree. Everything was delicious. They also had someone on staff that knew a lot about wine and his recommendation was good. The only downside of this restaurant is the portion sizes are kind of small so your bill can add up, but this is a great place to treat yourself.
(5)Lexie O.
Went with friends on a Saturday night, and it was great! Many thanks to Jeremy who made it a great experience. Highly recommend the charcuterie and cheese plates and the pork tostada app!!
(5)Hong L.
Don't judge a restaurant by it's cover. Judge it by the food. All we could say after the meal was just how good the food was here and how pleasantly surprised. From the looks of the restaurant, it appears to be a very casual new American bistro joint. However, the food shown beyond what we saw. We ordered: Mini Crab cakes - These crab are juicy. Of all the crab cakes I've had, these are the first to be: (a) not crunchy at all, (b) feels like it melts in your mouth as you eat them, and (c) full of flavor. I did not really need to add the sauces. Caprese - Comes with green and red tomatoes and they add leaves of basil on the dish. The mozarella was good enough as a stand alone app. Very well marinated and dressed. Pappardelle - HUGE HUGE plate. Can I say HUGE? The noodles are well cooked and there is a good balance in the portion of meat/sauce/ noodle. Pork Bracole - There is a theme with the pork. All the pork dishes we had were extremely well cooked so that it remains juicy and tender. Pork Loin (Special) - It was not only the pork but the peppers and the polenta that really made that dish shine. We were so full that we did not order dessert. Yes, a shocker... Until next time, I will return!
(5)Brad S.
Class without the stuffiness of many east coast eateries, Eclipse was the best of my restaurant visits in Wilmington (read: only restaurant), and still managed to impress. The entrée was a Portuguese fish whose name I asked the server to repeat to me twice, though I still was not able to find mention of online, so he may have been making it up or I may have misheard him. Anyway, it came in an escabeche sauce that was spot on, and over a simple corn, asparagus, and serrano ham hash that paired excellently with the fish. I wasn't normally an eater of fish skin, but given the deep, crisp texture paired against the soft and tender fish, I couldn't not eat it. I made a special trip up to Wilmington, and I put a lot of thought in to choosing the one restaurant at which I would dine during my visit. I didn't choose poorly.
(5)Frank C.
Excellent Salmon!! It literally melted in your mouth and the taste of the fish was refreshing!
(5)Tony A.
Great service, incredible menu, very high quality food and did I mention great service? Already made our next reservation! The pork tenderloin was out of this world.
(5)Katie T.
Loved this restaurant! great ambiance, great food, great wine. The server was so on top of it- was always refilling our wine glasses and water glasses. I will definitely return soon!
(4)Perri V.
Below is a list of the items ordered at our table. Everyone was very satisfied with their meal. We come here often and we are always pleased. Being from New Orleans, on this visit, I was not impressed with the Shrimp Étouffée, It was nothing like an Étouffée should be. But I will be back. Pulled Pork Tacos Shrimp Bruschetta White Bean Artichoke Dip Caesar Salad Burger Shrimp étouffée Pasta Special Salmon Braised Short Rib Butternut Squash Lancaster Chicken Creme Brûlée Bistro French Toast Tiramisu Chocolate Molten Cake
(3)Cynthia F.
5* service; 5* ambience; 5* food. I had the Lola Rosa pear salad and tuna tartare. Both were tasty, artistically presented and creative. Not that many tables; I recommend making a reservation. As is typical of restaurants of this caliber, portion sizes are not huge. All male staff, when we were there; I thought that was odd.
(5)Ilan M.
Normally I don't give out 5, but given the location (Wilmington, Delaware), service, price, atmosphere and taste, this place deserves it. This was my second visit, and if I ever find myself in Wilmington, definitely not my last. We had a large group and ordered many many dishes. Here's a breakdown of some of them... Apps Mushrooms on toast - delicious! Mushrooms had a nice, warm smokiness that made these a hit Crispy Calamari - I appreciated the creativity (spicy mayo, capers and olives - I love olives) but I hate mayo. Crab cakes - these things are gold. They break apart so easily, moist and tender and the accompanying sauce was a classic. Cheese - pretty standard fare, nothing sticks out except for the tasty marmalade and honey which comes with it. Entrees Organic chicken - delicious crispy (albeit a touch over seasoned) skin, decent moisture (but not melt in your mouth, which is very difficult to do with chicken, but I've seen it done), really really good jus, and the wilted spinach and red mash on the side were amazing. Last visit I had the Lamb Sirloin, which was a touch dry, but the sides (Israeli couscous and veg) made up for it. I also tried the standard seared Duck, and the Duck special - both were really good, but the special wins the day, hands down. A touch salty, but Duck is usually fatty ( = salty) so this is somewhat expected. Dessert Raspberry sorbet - same thing I ordered last time; light, refreshing, fruity, always a hit I also tried the smores which (having had it last time as well) I really recommend. Not too marshmallowy, just enough graham cracker and sweetness. Paired with the cool sorbet, this is a double whammy. The service was very friendly, they topped our wines and waters promptly, and stayed open as late as we were there (given we were the last ones there on a quiet Tuesday night). I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants a bit of fine dining in Wilmington, without resorting to standard, overpriced Steak/fish chains.
(5)Ann M.
Wedge and crab cakes good. Other menu items did not appeal to me. Nice like place. A little pricey but good.
(4)Michelle M.
Good things come in small packages. OK - Great things come in small packages. Tried this place after reading reviews and it did not disappoint. Had the special which was a homemade ravioli in a cream of corn and lobster sauce. It was delicate and light yet flavorful and filling. The martinis were excellent. The french toast dessert with a pecan granola topping and homemade vanilla ice cream. breakfast for dessert? Yes, and I would order it again and again.
(4)Rev. Robert D.
Nice fine dining without the prices
(4)Fiona M.
I have eaten there twice. . .and all I can say is while it is not cheap or economical I have left there wanting to lick the plate every time. . . So Yummy! I can not wait to go again.
(5)Craig W.
Eclipse Bistro (Yelp's auto-search calls it Eclipse Restaurant for some reason) has been on my radar for a while. We finally got a chance to check it out and we're glad we did. Except for a couple of minor glitches (I would give them 4 1/2 stars if I could), everything was first-rate. Baby and I shared the mini-crab cake appetizer. They were great and had a nice spicy sauce (we're hot for hot food) to go with them. We split a salad (and in a sign of a first class eatery, Eclipse divided it in the kitchen without being asked) which was large enough to give us both a healthy serving. The first glitch came when Baby got her seared tuna entree - it should have been merely seared on the outside and rare on the inside but was overcooked. We called over the waiter and before we could finish explaining the problem, he agreed, without missing a beat, that the tuna was definitely overcooked. He took it back to the kitchen and shortly brought out a perfectly seared tuna portion. Not a problem at all. Being a cold winter night, I got the homey, well-prepared braised short ribs. They were fall-off-the-bone tender and were perfectly complemented by the sides. We both got flights of wine with our meal - I got a flight of reds, Baby a flight of whites. It's a great way to try out new wines and a great deal. For the price of a single glass of wine, you get three 3 ounce pours. The second glitch occurred because Eclipse uses the same glasses for both wine and water. Yup, you guessed it - the waiter mistakenly refreshed Baby's water (and we appreciate frequent unsolicited water refills) by pouring water into one of her unfinished wines! But once again, they made everything right without a fuss. The waiter apologized and brought Baby a full glass (not the original small pour) of the mistakenly diluted wine. Needless to say, Baby was very happy that evening! The chocolate cake we got for dessert was also wonderful - a nice balance of richness and sweetness, not too cloying like some chocolat desserts. All in all, a great dining experience - great food, relaxing atmosphere, and good, unpretentious service. We're definitely putting Eclipse on our list of go-to places.
(4)Bilal M.
The food is great and presented well. Try the pulled pork taco appetizer. The waiters are laid back and very friendly. I highly recommend this place.
(5)Carson F.
Delaware does not have an overwhelming number of high-end spots. Eclipse Is a great small romantic bistro with very good food and pretty good service. I eat here a couple times a month and I have never been dissspointed with the food. The service can sometimes be off, but always friendly and usually spot on. The menu doesn't change to often, but the specials are usually interesting. The wine menu is a bit small for my taste; however, what they have is good. Great cozy date spot that is in my top 10 for Delaware without question.
(4)Leesa W.
S'mores Bread Pudding! OMG!!
(5)helen a.
Bistro catch , lamb,spring roll, crab cakes , tiramisu what a crazy combination of foodbut it worked the chef's spices and the quality was a special treat . The service was pleasant and professional . We had a bottle of wine which was just ok . It's value at the restaurant was$32 & at any wine shop under $10. My advice have a great bottle or cocktail before you go. The small cozy spot is a definite place to experience if your are in North Wilmington.
(4)Richard D.
I had high hopes for this restaurant given the high ratings in Yelp and even my lunch companion who is a local gave the thumbs up. I was looking forward to some great food. The fact that this was lunch on a Monday may have contributed to the almost dead dining area but at the end of the meal, methinks it may be something else... We decided to keep our meal simple and my friend ordered the chopped salad while I ordered the veal ravioli. The chopped salad required some considerable extra chopping after arriving despite my friend enquiring about how chopped it was. It clearly didn't make too much of an impression either as only half the dish was eaten. My ravioli arrived looking rather sparse and considering it was in the mains section of the menu and priced at $17 I expected a bit more than five 'pillows' of veal and pasta. Never mind, it's not about the quantity but rather the taste so after the first bite I was pleased that I didn't have to consume much of it (my mother taught me to always eat everything on the plate otherwise I'm wasting food). The pasta was slightly undercooked and the filling was lacking in any joyful flavors. If I'm not mistaken I would place a wager that the ravioli is bought frozen and heated to order making the sauce the main focus of the dish. And it's true, the sauce was flavorful. It was just a shame that the sauce didn't adequately compensate for the blandness of the pasta. As an aside, I asked for a glass of mineral water with lemon and lime and the waiter produced a bottle of Pellegrino and a small plate with a slice of lime and a few slices of lemon on it. He was kind enough to pour the water into the glass but adding the citrus fruit was my problem. I suppose those that are happy to drink regular soda only have to buy it by the glass whereas I was forced to pay $6 for deciding to choose mineral water. I will admit I didn't raise my concerns with the server as I didn't wish to spoil the time I had to see my friend. I also provided a generous tip which is customary but that's the last cent I'll spend at this bistro.
(2)Michael P.
3 and1/2 stars would be the correct ranking. There is a lot to like about Eclipse: intimate, yet not claustrophobic; servers are knowledgable and professional; god wine list; and the food was above average. Lamb sirloin and tilefish special were superb. The short rib taco was delicious and coupled with a salad would be a decent meal. We will return.
(3)Trauts N.
Good, well prepared food. The calamari appetizer is one of the best I have had. Frequently take business guests here.
(4)