A vacation to the vibrant coastal city of Virginia Beach is never complete without flourishing the amazing local cuisines. In this bustling beach-lined oceanfront where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, the seafood-centric culinary culture with locally harvested ingredients is hard to miss. But, do you think that seafood is the only thing we can eat? Read along, as you imagine yourself basking under the bright Virginia sun, doing multiple activities. Either to bike along the famous three-mile (five-kilometer) Virginia Beach Boardwalk, explore the Norfolk Botanical Garden, or even scuba dive, snorkel, and surf in the water, you will be hungry enough to pamper yourself with the local food. Find out about the restaurants in Virginia Beach, below.
1. Waterman's Surfside Grille
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Opened in 1981, the Standing Family owned and operated restaurant has a long history that dates back to the 1960s. Along decades, it operates under different names until they change into Waterman’s Surfside Grille in 2007, with a new concept of an upscale yet casual oceanfront restaurant. All served seafood is locally caught or raised in Virginia, making it not only fresh but also sustainable. Go get a spot and don’t forget to try the Original Orange Crush!
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Address: 415 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Opening hours: 11:00 - 22:00 (Monday-Thursday), 11:00 - 2:00 (Friday-Saturday), 9:00- 22:00 (Sunday)
2. The Back Deck
One of the most important things in finding a place to eat is the place. The Back Deck not only offers spectacular food and drinks but also presents one of the greatest dining experiences with a direct view of the ocean. Hence the name. They may serve the food in paper plates with plastic forks, but here, you can savor the locally caught seafood from the market inside using the simplest preparation to enhance the fresh ingredients, all while enjoying the stunning views!
The Back Deck
Address: 3323 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: The Back Deck
Opening hours: 11:00 - 23:00 (Monday-Thursday, Sunday), 11:00 - 00:00 (Friday-Saturday)
3. Doc Taylor's
Doc Taylor’s has a rich history, starting with the Virginia Beach, Doctor Taylor himself set up practice and residence in the same building that used to be a pink motel. Now, they serve an all-day breakfast and lunch. With its comfortable vibe, visitors are bound to bump into familiar faces, and newcomers won’t feel like it is their first time. Don’t forget to dig into their signature Ray Ray and savor the Doctor’s world famous Bloody Mary while you are here!
Doc Taylor’s
Address: 207 23rd St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Doc Taylor’s
Opening hours: 7:00 - 15:00 (everyday)
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4. Terrapin Restaurant
Looking out for a fine-dining experience on your visit to Virginia Beach? Terrapin Restaurant is the answer. The award-winning restaurant claims that all food is free of hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup, yet full of flavor since they only use freshest ingredients from local sources. Their dinner menu changes almost daily, but never doubt the taste since everything is made to perfection!
Terrapin Restaurant
Address: Pinewood Sq, 3102 Holly Rd, Ste 514, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Terrapin Restaurant
Opening hours: 17:00 - 21:00 (Monday-Thursday, Sunday), 17:00 - 22:00 (Friday-Saturday)
5. Tautog’s Restaurant
Crab nachòs, Tuna Martinique, and Oysters Rockefeller are some of the dishes in the long-listed menu. The casual dining restaurant was created to operate a first-class food service business in the cottage, using their ‘secret’ recipe of sight, sound and smell to attract customers. Here, you can enjoy a glimpse of the area’s maritime past while enjoying some of today’s finest seafood fare.
Tautog’s Restaurant
Address: 205 23rd St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Tautog’s Restaurant
Opening hours: 17:00 - 00:00 (Monday-Thursday, Sunday), 17:00 - 2:00 (Friday-Saturday)
6. Rockafeller’s Restaurant
This family-owned and operated restaurant not only offers tasty gourmet but also stunning views to the harbor. Since 1989, Rockafeller has committed to serving fresh food through researching, experimenting, and tasting. They successfully maintain the quality within reasonable prices, supported by local vendors. Try the favorite Crab Cake with Tarragon Relish, Crab and Shrimp Hushpuppies, and Rum Cake to pamper your palate!
Rockafeller’s Restaurant
Address: 308 Mediterranean Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Rockafeller’s Restaurant
Opening hours: 11:00 - 22:00 (Monday-Saturday), 10:00 - 22:00 (Sunday)
7. Rudee’s Restaurant & Cabana Bar
For over more than 36 years, Rudee’s Restaurant and Cabana Bar has been situated directly on the Rudee Inlet Marina, with indoor and outdoor dining experience with waterfront views. It’s a good place to relax while enjoying the daily delivered fresh local seafood and local breweries. Try the Rudee Inlet or Chesapeake Style, and bring your kids outdoors to the glider table for extra fun!
Rudee’s Restaurant & Cabana Bar
Address: 227 Mediterranean Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Rudee’s Restaurant & Cabana Bar
Opening hours: 11:00 - 21:00 (Monday-Saturday), 10:00 - 21:00 (Sunday)
8. Surf Club Ocean Grille
From the Crab Cake Benedict to the Shrimp Scampi, the restaurant at Wyndham Resort Hotel offers American fare from the land & sea with a big wine list. Live events and happy hours are available with an inviting spacious ambiance and great views of the oceanfront. Here, you can get the whole package of tasty food, awesome service, and scenic dining experience.
Surf Club Ocean Grille
Address: 5700 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Surf Club Ocean Grille
Opening hours: 6:30 - 21:00 (Monday-Thursday, Sunday), 6:30 - 22:00 (Friday-Saturday)
9. Tapped Gastropub
In this cozy upscale bar and gastropub, you can get high-quality grub to complement an extensive drink selection. With the farm-to-table philosophy, they commit to support the local community and serve only fresh food to please your palate. Each dish is also infused with Executive Chef Bill Rurak’s passion for food and flavor. Get the locally caught seafood, grass-fed beef, farm-raised poultry and handcrafted beers here, at Tapped Gastropub!
Tapped Gastropub
Address: 1550 Laskin Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Tapped Gastropub
Opening hours: 11:00 - 1:30 (everyday)
10. Pocahontas Pancakes and Waffles
The shop was originally opened in 1974 by the Crisostomides family and bought by The Zervoudakis in 1986. It became a landmark of the tourist strip on Atlantic Avenue where you can have breakfast or brunch of the most comfortable food options; waffles and pancakes. Enjoy the sweet and savory dishes in the family-friendly atmosphere!
Pocahontas Pancakes and Waffles
Address: 3420 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Website: Pocahontas Pancakes and Waffles
Opening hours: 7:00 - 13:00 (everyday)
A feast for both your palate and eyes
From meticulously crafted fine dining cuisines to the humble waffles and pancakes, food always becomes a good reason to bring everyone together. Sometimes, it’s not only about the luxury or variety of dishes, but more of the overall dining experience. The restaurants we pick guarantee a pleasure to both your palate and eyes. So, bring your friends and family to enjoy Virginia’s unique taste after a long, tiring venture in the city!
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