A Fresh Take on Comfort Cuisine and Cocktails
302 The Local is Rehoboth’s inimitable speakeasy located in the heart of town next to Iron Hill Brewing Co. Our Kitchen and Craft Bar, which feature over 500 varietals, are driven by an innate inclination for hospitality and a core tenet that one can enjoy flawlessly executed cocktails and delicious, elevated food, served in a beautiful space without pretense. Guided by a dedicated team and a commitment to excellence, this vision remains at the core of everything we do. Our food and cocktail selections are based on the freshness and availability of ingredients, while consistently featuring the signature items that have helped build our exceptional reputation, such as our Dry-aged Gourmet Burgers and smoked cocktails. Our top priority is ensuring our guests have an amazing experience. We truly appreciate you choosing to spend your valuable time with us, so if there’s anything we can do to make your visit exceptional, please don’t hesitate to let us know.
A Menu Crafted to Impress
At 302 THE LOCAL, we go beyond great food—we redefine comfort classics with elevated flavors and creative execution. From our dry-aged gourmet burgers to thoughtfully curated entrées, every dish is designed to surprise and satisfy. Pair your meal with one of our expertly crafted cocktails or explore the largest whiskey wall in the area, stocked with sought-after varietals that make us a true destination for whiskey enthusiasts.
An Atmosphere Like No Other
Step into 302 THE LOCAL, where speakeasy-inspired design meets modern hospitality. Our intimate space, adorned with vintage art and musical instruments, transports you to an era of timeless charm. Whether you're here to unwind, celebrate, or simply savor a great meal, our warm and attentive service ensures every visit feels special.
Our Team
Christopher Desch
Christopher Desch discovered his entrepreneurial passion after opening his first children’s boutique in Fells Point, Baltimore, where he earned multiple accolades, including "Best Of" from Baltimore Magazine. As the market evolved, he sold his brick-and-mortar stores and took on a marketing role with Anheuser-Busch. During this time, he built strong relationships with some of the city's most successful and award-winning culinary businesses. Through these connections, he had the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with owners of James Beard and Michelin-starred restaurants, which sparked his desire to create his own culinary concept.
After relocating with his children to Rehoboth Beach, DE, he opened a "Baltimore BBQ" spot. After 6 years, he pivoted to opening a new concept, 302 The Local. Now, along with his financial partners, he is working on several new culinary ventures, including Lower Dougher," a French-inspired bakery and breakfast spot, and One Love Creek," a Caribbean-inspired dockside bar serving classic Americana cuisine. Construction for One Love Creek is slated to begin in the Summer of 2025.
Bert Lewis
Bert started his culinary journey at Auguste Escoffier in Boulder before graduating from the Culinary Academy in Las Vegas. He began his career under the mentorship of James Beard Award-winning chef José Andrés at Bazaar Meat, where he embraced the bold and adventurous world of meat-centric cuisine while mastering the art of innovative food and cocktails. Bert later moved to the East Coast, further enhancing his experience at Gramercy Tavern and Figure Eight. In 2024, he joined the team at 302 The Local, eager to make his mark on Delaware's culinary scene by redefining elevated comfort food while sourcing local ingredients.
Jamie Lawson
Jamie first earned a business degree from the University of Nevada before following her passion for food at the Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles, where she earned a second degree in Restaurant and Culinary Management. Later that year, she launched and managed food trucks in the Bay Area for seven years. She then moved east to join the ownership team at Grenouille in New York. After selling her shares to her partners, Jamie relocated to Delaware to be closer to family and friends. Thankfully for us, she joined the team at 302 The Local, where she is dedicated to continuing to provide the best possible culinary experience for her guests.