Discover Second Block Hospitality

Second Block Hospitality represents a collection of distinctive dining establishments dedicated to exceptional quality - The Pines American Bistro, Drift Seafood & Raw Bar, and Bodhi Kitchen, all located in the vibrant downtown of Rehoboth Beach, DE.

Guided by a shared vision and distinguished by our acclaimed culinary expertise, we deliver experiences that seamlessly merge vibrant energy with contemporary, boutique concepts. Our foremost priorities—exemplary guest service, exceptional cuisine, gracious courtesy, captivating presentation, and operational efficiency—are a direct result of our outstanding front-of-house and back-of-house teams. Every element contributes to a remarkable dining experience.

Over the past seven years, Bob Suppies, Tyler Townsend, David Gonce, and Lion Gardner have revolutionized the restaurant scene on the Second Block of downtown Rehoboth Beach, known as The Nation's Summer Capital. Their achievements include being named "Restaurateurs of the Year" by the Delaware Restaurant Association, "Best Of Delaware" by Delaware Today Magazine, "Best New Restaurant" by Coastal Style Magazine, and "Diner's Choice" by Open Table. Recently, the Washington Post's food critic praised Drift for its exceptional seafood and service, while Delaware Today Magazine highlighted Second Block Hospitality's dynamic impact on the Rehoboth dining landscape.

Bob Suppies, Owner

An east coast native, originally from Maine (The Pine Tree State), Bob has lived and worked in and around Rehoboth Beach since 1997. After graduating from the University of Maine, he found his way into a highly successful career in retail for 28 years. He retired in 2017 but little did he know...

Having been recognized as a guru in business development - it was there that he discovered his passion for coaching, leading and shaping teams, as well as, thoughtful marketing/design.

On a personal level, his passions include food/wine, desserts (he has a sweet tooth second to none), helping his community and friends, and spending time with his partner Vadim and their Jack Russell Terrier Shelby.

Tyler Townsend, Owner

Growing up in Rehoboth Beach with a family deeply involved in the restaurant business, it was only natural for Tyler to find his own way into the industry. His time working in his family’s restaurants made a lasting impression and gave him many fond memories.

Tyler also excelled in baseball, earning a 3rd round draft pick by the Baltimore Orioles in 2009. But when a career-ending injury changed his plans, he didn't give up. Instead, Tyler turned his focus back to what he loved most and decided to pursue a career in the culinary world.

With a degree in Hospitality Management from Florida International University, he followed his passion and set out to open his own restaurants, bringing his vision to life.

Lion Gardner, Owner

Lion Gardner, a Penn native who moved to Rehoboth in 1997, is a key player in the restaurant & hospitality scene.

With a Master’s in Communication from the Univ of DE, Gardner has been instrumental in launching Rehoboth restaurants like Eden and Fins. He was the Executive Chef and owner of Blue Moon from 2006 to 2020, earning awards such as the Cornerstone Award and Best Chef Downstate.

Gardner also taught Culinary Arts at Del Tech and began consulting in 2015. Since 2019, he has been the Director of Product Development at a Maryland-based international seafood company. In 2021, he co-founded Second Block Hospitality, opening Drift in 2022 and Bodhi in 2023. Gardner lives in Rehoboth with his wife and two kids.

David Gonce, Owner

Born and raised in Maryland, Dave spent much of his time in and around Rehoboth Beach, which led him to purchase a home there in the mid-90s.

After a successful career in business development and private equity, he decided to pursue a lifelong passion for food and beverage by transitioning into hospitality. His expertise as a client-focused sales leader made him a perfect fit for the ownership team. Dave excels at building relationships and creating strategies to boost revenue and customer interest.

He moved to Rehoboth full time in 2014 and enjoys spending time with family and friends while also exploring destinations around the world.