What started as a backyard experiment has become one of Delaware’s most beloved food brands. Nothing Better LLC, founded by Marcus Taylor in his Middletown kitchen, now produces five varieties of small-batch hot sauce sold in over 100 stores across Delmarva.

The origin: ‘I was making hot sauce for friends at cookouts,’ Marcus recalls. ‘One buddy said, There’s nothing better than this sauce. The name stuck.’ He launched in 2023 with a single habanero-mango recipe at the Middletown Farmers Market.

The lineup today: Original Habanero Mango, Smoky Chipotle Bourbon, Carolina Reaper ‘Dare Ya,’ Sweet Pepper Everyday (mild enough for kids), and Delaware Bay Garlic.

What makes it different: every batch uses fresh peppers from three Delaware farms — never dried or powdered — cooked in small kettles in a licensed commercial kitchen in New Castle.

Find it at ACME, ShopRite, and Janssen’s Market locations across Delaware, at farmers markets, and online at nothingbetterllc.com. Use code THRIVE15 for 15% off your first online order.

Looking for the perfect date night spot in the First State? Here are ten Delaware restaurants that deliver ambiance, incredible food, and memorable experiences.

1. The House of William & Merry — Hockessin. Farm-to-table fine dining in a converted farmhouse. Reserve weeks ahead.

2. Le Cavalier at the Green Room — Wilmington. French brasserie elegance inside the Hotel du Pont.

3. La Fia — Wilmington. Intimate BYOB with a constantly evolving menu. Only 40 seats.

4. Back Porch Cafe — Rehoboth Beach. Coastal fine dining with an award-winning wine list.

5. Bardea Food & Drink — Wilmington. Italian-inspired with housemade pasta and craft cocktails.

6. Domaine Hudson — Wilmington. Wine bar meets bistro with over 500 labels.

7. Two Stones Pub — Newark/Wilmington. Elevated pub fare with impressive craft beer.

8. Bluecoast Seafood Grill — Rehoboth Beach. Fresh seafood with stunning sunset views.

9. Eclipse Bistro — Wilmington. New American in a converted trolley car barn.

10. Harvest at Dewey Beach — Seasonal dishes with gorgeous bayside views.