EAT
Chelsea Tavern has become a gathering spot for a diverse range of clientele. Owner Joe Van Horn (with glasses) and staff take pride in that. Photo by Joe del Tufo
Earning His Stripes Restaurant veteran Joe Van Horn doesn't shy away from a battle — and he has the scars to prove it By Pam George
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hen it comes to Delaware’s restaurant’s scene, Joe Van Horn has seen it all — the good, the bad, the risky and the ridiculous. And like the Energizer Bunny, he just keeps going. Since 2010, he’s been plugging along at Chelsea Tavern, located across from the Grand Opera House on Market Street. Van Horn’s pub has lasted much longer than the tony 821 that occupied the space during MBNA’s heyday. Sean McNeice, the opening chef at Chelsea Tavern, credits his former partner’s smarts. “He’s a pragmatic guy,” McNeice says. “He’s a wise-ass, too, so he’s my kind of people.” Van Horn likely has more restaurant experience than many people in New Castle County, McNeice adds. “Joe is a survivor,” agrees Xavier Teixido, who worked with Van Horn at 1492 Hospitality Group in the 1980s. “He’s been able to survive an amazing amount of diverse experiences.” Even the worst experience has left Van Horn with a great story to tell. ► NOVEMBER 2021 | OUTANDABOUTNOW.COM 29
