DELAWARE - While the "retail apocalypse" dominates the national conversation, the First State is bucking the trend with a wave of new energy this month. February 2026 sees the arrival of a major discount retailer filling a critical void in New Castle, alongside the launch of highly anticipated dining concepts in Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach.
Here are the four major openings to watch in Delaware this month.
1. Ocean State Job Lot
The "Discount King" lands in New Castle.
As Big Lots continues its retreat from the region, a new player is stepping in to fill the gap for bargain hunters. Ocean State Job Lot is finalizing its entry into the Penn Mart Shopping Center in New Castle, with operations ramping up for a Q1 2026 launch.
- The Vibe: Known as the premier closeout retailer in the Northeast, this chain offers a "treasure hunt" experience similar to Big Lots or Ollie's, but with a heavier focus on brand-name pantry staples, seasonal gear, and home essentials.
- The Impact: This opening is a major win for the New Castle corridor, reactivating a large vacant storefront and bringing dozens of jobs back to the shopping center.
2. Blackwall Barn & Lodge
Wilmington's new anchor launches Sunday Brunch.
While the doors officially cracked open recently, February 1st marks the full arrival of Blackwall Barn & Lodge as a daytime destination in North Wilmington. The massive farm-to-table concept at Avenue North (the former AstraZeneca campus) is officially debuting its signature Sunday Brunch service this month.
- The Experience: This isn't just a buffet; it is a high-end culinary event featuring carving stations, raw bars, and mimosas, designed to compete with the top brunch spots in the Brandywine Valley.
- Why It Matters: It signals the continued transformation of the Concord Pike corridor from a commuter route into a legitimate lifestyle and dining hub.
3. Skratch
Trolley Square gets a new heartbeat.
The legendary space at 1709 Delaware Avenue has finally been reborn. Skratch is officially open and ramping up its schedule in February, bringing a modern "rock and roll" edge to the historic Trolley Square district.
- The Status: Named as a nod to the iconic "Scratch Magoo's" that occupied the space for decades, this new venue combines a polished gastropub menu with a high-energy bar atmosphere.
- The Vibe: After a soft opening phase, February serves as the venue's first full month of operation, aiming to reclaim the title of "best happy hour" in the neighborhood for the post-work crowd.
4. Bodhi Kitchen
Rehoboth Beach gets a new culinary star.
For those heading to the coast for a Valentine's getaway, Bodhi Kitchen is the fresh face in town. Located on Baltimore Avenue, this new Asian-fusion concept from the team behind The Pines is fully operational and shaking up the beach's dining scene this February.
- The Menu: Expect a departure from the typical crab cakes and fries. The menu features dim sum, high-end noodle dishes, and a cocktail program that rivals the best bars in Philly or DC.
- The Draw: It offers a "city vibe" at the beach, giving locals and off-season visitors a sophisticated new option that feels distinct from the traditional summer boardwalk fare.
February 2026 in Delaware is defined by revitalization. In New Castle, Ocean State Job Lot is proving that brick-and-mortar retail is still alive by backfilling the empty box left by Big Lots. Meanwhile, the dining scene is seeing a significant upgrade: Blackwall Barn & Lodge is solidifying its status as a North Wilmington anchor with its brunch launch, Skratch is breathing new life into a nostalgic Trolley Square address, and Bodhi Kitchen is bringing modern Asian flavors to Rehoboth Beach, ensuring the culinary scene stays vibrant even in the off-season.
