The Half

Strolling through the picturesque streets of the historic district that Wilmington is famous for, it’s hard to pass by one of the city's most soulful spots. We’re talking about The Half — a cozy bar and sandwich shop that has quickly become a real hit among locals and travelers visiting the USA. This establishment harmoniously combines the simplicity of a good old-fashioned pub with the sophistication of modern gastronomy.

The specialty of the house is the freshest sandwiches, made with meticulous attention to detail, and an impressive drink menu. Guests are offered six rotating draft beers that change regularly, as well as an excellent selection of wines. The name plays on its address on a "half" street, adding a special charm and making it easily memorable.

The interior of The Half is imbued with the atmosphere of a reimagined industrial space: the bar took over the former Detour Deli site, preserving its welcoming spirit while adding a modern polish. With a high rating of 4.8, this place is considered one of the best in its category, offering high-quality local products and a relaxed setting for unwinding in the heart of the city.

To check the current menu or seat availability, you can contact the establishment directly. Below are the main contact details for The Half:

The main reason to visit The Half is, of course, to taste their famous sandwiches. The menu here focuses on quality over quantity, so every dish is thought out to the smallest detail. Be sure to try one of their signature options on freshly baked bread, pairing it with a glass of craft beer from the rotating list.

Fans of discovering new flavors will love the rotating tap system. Here you can find rare varieties from local breweries that are hard to come by in chain establishments. If you prefer wine, the staff will be happy to help you find the perfect glass to complement your snack.

The atmosphere of the place is perfect for both a quiet solo lunch and a lively meeting with friends. The Half offers a casual dining format — there’s no unnecessary pretension, but a lot of attention is paid to guest comfort. If the weather permits, you can grab your order to go and head out for a walk, but we recommend staying inside to soak up the unique energy of this historic corner.

The Half is conveniently located in the city's historic center, making it easily accessible for tourists on foot. If you are in the area of the famous Riverwalk or Waterfront District, the walk to the bar will take only about 10–15 minutes. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the old city architecture on your way to lunch.

For those who prefer comfort, the best option would be a taxi or services like Uber and Lyft. A ride from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) will take approximately 15–20 minutes. By car, you should aim for the address 510 1/2 Red Cross St; parking spots can be found on adjacent streets, although this may take some time in the city center during peak hours.

Public transport is also available: city buses run in downtown Wilmington, with stops located within a few minutes' walk of the establishment. Thanks to its central location, the bar fits perfectly into any walking route through the city's key points.

Even though The Half is a relatively new name on the city's gastronomic map, it has already managed to acquire its own history. The bar opened in early 2022, occupying the space where the locally famous Detour Deli was previously located. The new owners preserved the spirit of hospitality while bringing a fresh perspective to the "beer and sandwiches" concept.

The name of the establishment itself is an ironic reference to its unusual address. Located in a building numbered 510 1/2 on Red Cross St, the bar emphasizes its informality and unique position within the historic district.

The choice of location was not accidental: this area of Wilmington is famous for its authentic atmosphere and careful preservation of old buildings. By opening here, The Half became part of the movement to revitalize and adapt old urban spaces for the modern needs of residents and tourists, while maintaining the charm of the past.

When planning your visit to The Half, you should budget about 1–2 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely explore the craft beer selection, wait for your sandwich, and enjoy your meal in a cozy setting. The establishment invites relaxed rest, so you won't want to rush.

If you are short on time, you can use the takeaway service. To-go orders usually take 15 to 30 minutes, making this an ideal option for those who want a snack while walking around town or want to take food with them to the waterfront.

The doors of The Half are open to visitors daily, making it a convenient stop on any tourist's itinerary. The establishment's schedule is as follows:

From Monday to Saturday, the bar welcomes guests from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On Sunday, there is a shortened schedule — from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note that hours may change on holidays, so we recommend checking the official website or confirming information by phone before your visit.

After visiting The Half, it's worth taking some time to explore the surroundings. The historic city center offers many interesting locations just a few minutes' walk away. A stroll through these places will help you feel the spirit of old America and the port city more deeply.