Panel to discuss restaurant renaissance in Rehoboth June 22

The Rehoboth Beach Museum will reopen its lecture hall for its first in-person program this year at 4 p.m., Tuesday, June 22, with a panel discussion among restaurateurs who helped start the movement toward fine dining in Rehoboth Beach.

These former restaurant owners changed cuisine options in Rehoboth from fried fish, hamburger, hotdogs and pizza to menus inspired by restaurants in New York and Europe.

Robert Thompson of the Rehoboth Beach Museum will moderate a discussion with former restaurant owners including Sydney Arzt, who owned Sydney’s Side Street, known for its food as well as live musical entertainment.

Other participants include Libby York who, with partners, opened the Back Porch Café in the old Hotel Marvel, and Keith Fitzgerald, who became a partner at the Back Porch after Libby left to pursue her jazz career in New York.

Terry Plowman, who owned and operated the Front Page Restaurant & Bar on Baltimore Avenue, will also participate. The Front Page was known for a casual, friendly atmosphere, an eclectic menu and frequent live music.

The public is invited to attend and learn the history of this restaurant renaissance. Space will be limited to 35 people to allow safe social distancing. Calling early to reserve a seat is recommended. The program is free for members; a $5 donation is suggested for nonmembers.

The museum is located at 511 Rehoboth Ave. and is handicap accessible.

To reserve a space, call 302-227-7310.

For more information, go to rehobothbeachmuseum.org.