Germany meets Key West in new Rehoboth biergarten

In the tradition of beach-living and sun-worshipping, the Purple Parrot Grill in downtown Rehoboth Beach has opened one of the first open-air biergartens in town.

For years, owner Hugh Fuller and partners Troy Roberts and Jamie Romano had been eying the space directly behind the Parrot on Rehoboth Avenue, occupied by a wicker shop. Once the shop closed, Fuller jumped at the opportunity to lease the space.

A little renovation, fresh paint, new sand, tables and palm trees later, the biergarten was born. Sitting under one of the large umbrellas and enjoying an afternoon beer is one thing, but the Parrot upped the ante by providing a Germany-meets-Key West theme. German meals are offered to go along with German beers in the open-air space, just off Wilmington Avenue. The new space also offers seating for up to 150 additional patrons.

“We finished the landscaping last Saturday and East Coast did a great job,” said Fuller of the new palm trees and ferns gracing the beirgarten. “We were only able to open for two weekends last year, but now that the patio ordinance is rectified and we have opened this year, we have been well-received.

The Parrot opened the new space May 5 on the 13th anniversary of the restaurant.

“This provides extra space and another option for diners,” Fuller said. “We should be open seven days a week for customers.”

For more information, visit the Purple Parrot at 134 Rehoboth Ave. or call 302-226-1139.