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The House of William & Merry, Hockessin, DE
The House of William & Merry, Hockessin, DE
The House of William & Merry, Hockessin, DE
The House of William & Merry, Hockessin, DE
The House of William & Merry, Hockessin, DE

The House of William & Merry

4.9
4.9
2088 Reviews
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
The House of William and Merry serves contemporary American cuisine prepared from the freshest seasonal ingredients procured from local farms, providing casual fine dining at a reasonable price. Chef-owned by the husband and wife team, Merry Catanuto and William Hoffman, who live on the property, the restaurant is a remodeled farmhouse on the edge of central Hockessin. Dine in a comfortable home atmosphere in one of the two dining rooms, the porch, or the bar. When you arrive, you can see right into the all new, modern kitchen. Full bar service is available including wines by the glass, microbrews on tap, and specialty drinks. Or, take a walk around back to see the herb and vegetable gardens.

Tuesday through Saturday we serve lunch and dinner. On Sunday, we serve brunch followed by a prix fix supper in the evening.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 18 times today

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary American
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (302) 234-2255
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive chef
    William Hoffman
  • Neighborhood
    Hockessin
  • Cross street
    Valley Road
  • Parking details
    Additional parking is available at Swift Park if the lot is full.
  • Additional
    Beer, Chef's Table, Full Bar, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 2,088 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.9
4.9 based on recent ratings
  • 4.9Food
  • 4.8Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.6Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Philadelphia / New Jersey Suburbs

    Best Overall

  • Philadelphia / New Jersey Suburbs

    Best Food

  • Philadelphia / New Jersey Suburbs

    Contemporary American

  • Delaware

    Best Overall

  • Delaware

    Best Food

  • Delaware

    Best Service

  • Delaware

    Best Ambiance

  • Delaware

    Best Value

  • Delaware

    Innovative

  • Delaware

    Good for special occasions

2,088 Reviews
  1. Lacolora

    Philadelphia

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is a must if you’re in Delaware. Love everything about this place. I have dietary restrictions and the chef is always accommodating with his added flair. Thanks Bill!

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  2. Louise

    Philadelphia

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was delicious, service was very good. We enjoyed our meals very much.

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  3. brainiac

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall3food4service4ambience3
    Two hours in and our entree had not arrived! We were the first ones there and watched as tables came and left. Waitress was extremely nice and did a great job table side. I assume she forgot to fire our food or ring in an item as the tables near us who ordered the same thing after us received theirs before. She never admitted to this even after asking why it’s taking so long we were told “between 6-7 it’s busy” yeah no kidding it is dinner time, I would expect that. We were the first ones in the restaurant for dinner service, our food couldn’t have been held up if their systems we’re working. Don’t tell be it’s busy at dinner time and I should have to wait 2 hours for a steak, oh and I was told “ that entree takes the longest, I should have told you that when you ordered”! What I would not expect is to receive a salad and a cheese board and to have over a two hour period before an entree arrives. Then at the 2 hour mark almost exactly I get the steak that was ordered. No one came to apologize or anything. The waitress took off our bottle of waters because it took so long “ and that’s all she could do” I guess she didn’t want the manager/owner to know our meal took 3 hours and we were the first ones there; and that’s all she could do without them finding out. Steak was delicious and they should be proud of that quality entree. Everything else was good. None of it was worth waiting 3 hours for a 3 course meal and spending $250 for two people while doing so.

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  4. AndrewK

    Philadelphia

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This restaurant is a true culinary experience. The cocktails are made with fresh juice, the pasta is homemade, even the butter is made in house. It’s unreal and so delicious. I can’t say enough good things. I wish I could eat here everyday. Yea it’s that’s good.

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  5. Kirsty

    Baltimore

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Thank You William & Merry & All Staff for a Lovely Dinner, Special Occasion atmosphere to celebrate 30th Birthday with our daughter. Your talent as chefs is quite apparent in the palette of flavors presented in such an elegant manner with array of ingredients. Our server was very busy initially, though we appreciate his efforts to be attentive. Your cocktails are creative, befitting the sumptuous meal & desert you present! Wine also complimented the dinner uniquely, beyond the typical experience.

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  6. TDD00

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We wanted some place special for dinner and The House of William & Merry did not disappoint! The service was friendly, we had a cozy table, and the food was amazing! The menu had something for everyone, and it was difficult to narrow it down and not over order. No complaints, a perfect meal and experience.

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  7. Maggie

    New York Area

    35 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    35 reviews

    Dined on September 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What an amazing dinner! Everything was on point, from cocktails to desserts. Our server, Maureen, was fantastic. In the front of the house, Matt took great care of us. The hamachi tartare was light, delicious, and well paired with house-made chips. I had the sablefish and ate all of it! My husband's short ribs had an incredible sauce that tied everything together. We couldn't decide on dessert so we got both and were not disappointed. I can't wait to go back. Wish we lived closer.

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  8. JamesM

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Wonderful anniversary dinner. Food and service were excellent. Very reasonable prices for the amazing treats we enjoyed.

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  9. LoveFirebirds

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The House of William and Merry is a top Delaware fine dining restaurant. The food, drink, service and environment is excellent. Although the food is fine dining the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. We had the squash soup and cheese tray as appetizers and hubby had pasta. I had the beef rib and all were divine. We both had cocktails and they were also different and tasty. We shared new peanut butter and chocolate dessert and if you love that combo you will love this creamy concoction. It was a magical night for hubby and me and we look forward to going back.

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  10. eat2much

    Philadelphia

    19 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food and service by Javier were both excellent. One of the best restaurants in the area.

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  11. MsCavapoo

    Philadelphia

    8 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    Wonderful dining experience! Service was excellent! Salads were highlight with breaded poached egg. Tile fish was delicious with many complex flavor profiles. Overall, a very delicious and relaxing experience. Would definitely return!

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  12. LeahJ

    Philadelphia

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on September 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This continues to be my absolute favorite restaurant! Everything is divinely delicious, and the staff and atmosphere make it a wonderful experience. Thank you for all that you do!

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  13. JacobW

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 1, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Me and my wife’s favorite restaurant.Food is always amazing!

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  14. Love2Dine

    Philadelphia

    11 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on August 31, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Undoubtedly the best local spot around! The food is always delicious, beautifully presented, and unique. The service is exceptional and always friendly.

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  15. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 30, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had an excellent experience, a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with impressively-presented, interesting, delicious combinations of flavors.

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  16. DonAsh

    Philadelphia

    58 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    58 reviews

    Dined on August 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The best restaurant in Delaware hands down. Service and food are outstanding.

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  17. Ksfoodie1

    Philadelphia

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on August 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Octo starter was AMAZING! the swordfish and fresh vegs- perfection! The staff was extremely helpful and friendly!

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  18. WindandWater

    Philadelphia

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on August 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Another excellent dining experience! Even though we live an hour away, here we are again five weeks after our first visit to this incredible restaurant. From the very friendly greeting by the hostess to the excellent service of our waiter, a young man named Chet, they certainly understand and practice great customer service here. The menu had many new and interesting offerings. I was fortunate to have been able to enjoy their special soft-shelled crab entree - perfection! My wife once again enjoyed the deckle steak, an entree that is hard to beat. Very creative touches with interesting tastings from the chef prior to our appetizers. And since their craft cocktails and wine choices are so good, we once again combined this visit with a stay at a very cool Airbnb minutes away. Thanks, William and Merry, for another excellent experience at your wonderful restaurant! Bill & Nancy

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  19. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 25, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food is always delicious and the service is impeccable! 

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  20. Shan

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is absolutely the No.1 restaurant in local area. Good for special occasions and special date. Service was great. Felt welcome at the door step amd food was amazing. They dont fool you with regular stuff. But you can find everything is decent and good quality.

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  21. mgr504

    New Orleans

    56 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    56 reviews

    Dined on August 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely the best kept secret in Delaware! Outstanding service and the food is divine! Best swordfish I have ever had and farm fresh vegetables! Presentation was incredible!’can’t wait to come back! Thank you!

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  22. Food4u

    Philadelphia

    67 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    67 reviews

    Dined on August 20, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I cannot write enough RAVE reviews about House of William & Merry. We have learned that everything is excellent here, but if you want something truly spectacular you must try one (or all) of the specials! We had the Elysian Fields lamb chop which was absolutely incredible!!! What a treat! The duck was delicious and the sword fish was perfectly prepared. Espresso martini and strawberry fields rounded our a most incredible meal! If you are looking for an exceptional dining experience, this place is a MUST visit! Keep killin it!!!

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  23. TaliaB

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Words cannot describe how amazing of a dining experience this was! By far the best meal we’ve ever had and our server, Chet was AWESOME!

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  24. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Excellent food and great cocktails. Beautifully presented. The sauce work was amazing.

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  25. GAnderson

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    THE BEST! Everything was so good! We are planing to go back for every seasonal food

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  26. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 18, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was amazing as always! They do an incredible menu. Everything is fresh and delicious and just creative! Mostly delicious!!

    Is this helpful?

  27. Joyful1

    Treasure Coast

    14 reviews

    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on August 15, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Small dining space with a limited fine-dining menu. Only 4 entrees offered plus 2 specials. Upscale gourmet dining.

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  28. RichardB

    Philadelphia

    2 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Another outstanding dining experience at one of our favorite restaurants.

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  29. EJDCMD

    Philadelphia

    81 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    81 reviews

    Dined on August 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Menu is very interesting with some unusual choices such as using garlic scape in a soup and an appetizer of Grouper head and cheeks. The dishes are complex and delicious.

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  30. JimD

    Philadelphia

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 11, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    Excellent food; five star quality. It was the best duck and swordfish we ever had. The cheeseboard had a nice variety of offerings and the desserts were unique and delicious. Food presentation was extraordinary!

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  31. Slack

    Philadelphia

    29 reviews

    5.0

    29 reviews

    Dined on August 11, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    Love this restaurant. The food and drinks were wonderful

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  32. Luv2eatout

    Fort Lauderdale

    21 reviews

    5.0

    21 reviews

    Dined on August 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful meal! Started with the foie gras which was exquisite. Main courses were steak with mushrooms which was cooked perfectly. My wife had swordfish which was also wonderful. Desert was a strawberry dish that we both loved. We will definitely be back!

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  33. Pigweed

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of the best meals I've had. Highly recommend!

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  34. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Always a great meal. Interesting combinations and textures. Often two starters is more than enough.

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  35. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on August 6, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    First time there for birthday dinner! Candle served on dessert! Respectful, knowledgeable staff, great food and nice building. A bit loud when we arrived but quieted down as parties left. Cute mini bar!! Met the owner/chef and learned a lot about the venue and history. We will go back!

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  36. PaulaB

    Philadelphia

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on August 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    The swordfish was delicious as were the scallops. The prices are on the high side but the food and service are impeccable. We'll be back.

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  37. NancyR

    Baltimore

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on August 4, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Always exceeds my expectations. Delicious. Delightful. Atmospheric. Hands down the best in all of Delaware

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  38. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on August 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We always have a wonderful time here! The food is amazing and the service is great!! Thanks for another wonderful anniversary dinner!!

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  39. Sparrow66

    Washington DC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on July 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Yesterday evening my wife and I enjoyed a truly unforgettable dinner at The House of William and Merry. Talk about fantastic food and service! We shared the buratta appetizer (wow, fabulous!), and the Strawberry Fields desert (Mmmm, amazing!). In between we both had the deckle steak entree. Served with tasty mushrooms, veggies, and silky-cheesy potato mash, it was a main that we reluctantly broke away from eating so that we could have a dessert! If you're on the fence about William and Merry, do yourself a favor and book it now! When you get there, if Jessica serves you, you'll be in great hands!

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  40. JaneM

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on July 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The Best of the Best Restaurants in the area. Warm and relaxing atmosphere. Attention to service from when you walk in the door. You will always enjoy yourself and your guests. Great Bartenders do impressive cocktails and the wine list is extensive. Servers know the menu and make u you our dining experience one to remember. Creative plating that is so inviting to tasting, that matches for the perfect bite!

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FAQs

The House of William & Merry is rated 4.9 stars by 2088 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 18 times today
Google Map for The House of William & Merry

1336 Old Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707

Additional information

  • Cross street
    Valley Road
  • Neighborhood
    Hockessin
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Cuisines
    Contemporary American
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Parking details
    Additional parking is available at Swift Park if the lot is full.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    William Hoffman
  • Additional
    Beer, Chef's Table, Full Bar, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
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