Shorebreak
Award winning restaurant, hand crafted cocktails, inspired cuisine and elevated service.
Where Every Guest Feels Like Family
Shorebreak Lodge is redefining what it means to make guests feel at home.
by Lily Burbage
Just 133 steps from the Atlantic Ocean, Shorebreak Lodge has long been a beloved part of Rehoboth Beach’s dining scene. Today, under the ownership of Ben and Diane Winiarczyk, the downtown restaurant reflects their blend of creativity, warmth and dedication while honoring the charm that made Shorebreak a local favorite. They serve elevated coastal cuisine, award-winning cocktails and warm hospitality in a relaxed beach setting.
Located on Wilmington Avenue in the heart of Rehoboth Beach, Shorebreak Lodge has earned a reputation for offering guests an experience that feels both sophisticated and approachable. Ben and Diane bought the restaurant in 2024 from entrepreneur Kate Wall, who had acquired it in 2017. They have remained committed to preserving what made Shorebreak a local favorite under the original ownership of Rob Stitt and Matt Sprenkle in 2011 while introducing their own vision.
Owning a restaurant was a natural transition for Ben, a seasoned mixologist who had always wanted his own place. Diane’s financial background rounded out the partnership, while her work as a nonprofit CPA and the CFO of St. Andrew’s School inspired a commitment to community that continues today through her service on the Rehoboth Beach Main Street board.
For them, taking over Shorebreak represented more than a business opportunity. It was a chance to build a dining destination centered on exceptional food, memorable cocktails and genuine connection.
Shorebreak Lodge owners, Diane and Ben Winiarczyk. Photo by Heartbeat Branding Co.
“We really are an extension of the community. We want this place to be a place to gather,” Diane said. “Our goal is for every guest to feel welcomed and taken care of the moment they walk through the door.
That philosophy is reflected throughout the restaurant. Ben and Diane kept the signature blue color palette but modernized the space with darker tones, updated carpeting, cushioned white seating and blankets at every table.
“Diane decided we were going to get blankets,” Ben said. “And even now that it’s 100 degrees out, people come in and put the blanket over their legs. I love the comfort we can offer.”
“Leaning into the personality of our space, we feel like it’s our home, and we want our guests to feel like they’re coming into our home,” Diane said.
At the heart of Shorebreak’s appeal is a menu built around fresh ingredients, unique flavors and comfortable favorites. Guests can choose from shareable small plates or full entrées, with signature dishes including the Mushroom Bruschetta, Char-grilled Octopus and the Surf & Turf featuring short rib and day-boat scallops. Seasonal specials and thoughtfully prepared steak and poultry dishes round out the menu.
Many guests also come specifically for Shorebreak’s cocktail program. Ben personally oversees the beverage menu, which has earned regional recognition for inventive takes on classic drinks crafted with fresh ingredients and premium spirits. These cocktails and an eclectic wine list offer pairings for every meal.
The response from locals and visitors has been overwhelmingly positive. Since Ben and Diane took over, Shorebreak has retained its loyal regulars while attracting first-time diners eager to experience its refreshed energy.
“We have special guest interactions every night,” the couple said. “When we’re in the restaurant, we’ll talk to as many guests as we can. We are inspired by their feedback and our connections. Many of our guests we now call friends.”
That consistency is intentional, creating an experience guests know they can count on every time they visit.
“You’re getting the same Cosmo no matter what day you show up and who makes it,” Diane said. “You know what you’re going to get.”
For the Winiarczyks, community support is one of the things they value most about doing business in Rehoboth Beach.
“Everybody looks out for each other here,” they said. “If you run out of something, there are ten other restaurants that will have your back. It’s fun and rewarding to be a business owner in this community.”
Looking ahead, Ben and Diane remain focused on refining the Shorebreak experience while staying true to its core identity. Their mission is simple: deliver exceptional food, outstanding drinks and heartfelt hospitality every night, whether guests stop in for cocktails, a celebratory dinner or a relaxed evening after a day at the beach.