Photo Courtesy of Beach Events/IMGoing
With a dining scene that is exceptional in all seasons, Virginia Beach area restaurants stay lively year-round and offer robust menus that satisfy every type of palate. From fresh seafood and farm-to-table to global fare and beach bites, Virginia Beach serves it all. Along with Virginia Beach’s high-quality restaurants, the City is full of fantastic food-related events and activities, providing fun bonding experiences for groups of all ages.
Because of Virginia Beach’s strong agricultural heritage, the City has a long embraced the farm-to-table movement. The ViBe Creative District features a wonderful selection of restaurants offering menus filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables and local specialties. And while farmers markets are a common sight throughout Virginia Beach, the Old Beach Farmers Market in the ViBe District on Saturday mornings is a can’t miss. Open for its regular season, March through November (with a winter market open on select dates), the outdoor market includes vendors, music and more. This laid-back market is both kid and pet-friendly, and a delight for all.
Farm experiences are beloved in Virginia Beach. Typically peaking late April through May, strawberry season is right around the corner, so it’s almost time for one of Virginia Beach’s favorite spring traditions—strawberry picking. Families enjoy spending time at local farms and having a u-pick experience, and also shopping at farm stands for other fresh produce and goods, including local honey, jams and salsa.
Throughout the year, Virginia Beach hosts a variety of culinary events as a way of showcasing its heritage and local fare. Some top food events to keep on your radar: On April 18, the East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic will be held at Oceanfront’s 31st Street Park with a friendly competition between local restaurants for the title of the best She-Crab soup. On Sept. 27, the Taste of Virginia Fest returns to Mount Trashmore for its second year. On Oct. 25, the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum Pig & Oyster Fest will be back at 24th Street Park. (Stay tuned for event details as the date gets closer.)
Due to the region’s moderate temperatures and stunning coastal setting, outdoor dining is pretty much a year-round activity in Virginia Beach. Whether eating at a restaurant on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or in the cozy Rudee Inlet or on the Lynnhaven Inlet in lively Chic’s Beach, there are countless opportunities for dining on delicious food while soaking in scenic water views. From fresh seafood to coastal cocktails, experience coastal dining at its best in Virginia Beach.
For a special occasion, or just because, consider a roof top experience at one of the great options at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Sky Bar (at top the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront), Orion’s Roof (atop the Marriott Resort Virginia Beach Oceanfront) and Virginia Beach’s newest sky bar, Lucy’s Sky Bar (atop Abbey Road Pub & Restaurant), are few exciting spots to check out. Or for a much more casual and less expensive treat, yet still very delightful, grab an ice cream or frozen yogurt and stroll the boardwalk.
Whatever flavor fits your itinerary, know that many delicious experiences await in the Resort City.