With the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay at its front door, it is not surprising that Virginia Beach has such a strong culinary scene with a large emphasis on coastal cuisine. While fresh, locally caught oysters, crabs, fish and other seafood are definitely popular menu choices in the region, the city’s restaurants offer a diverse range of dining options. Here is a sampling of Virginia Beach restaurants, many of which have been in business since the 1980s, where many locals like to eat. Take a look and on your next visit be prepared to dine like you live here.
As a coastal community, seafood is definitely a specialty in Virginia Beach. While in the city’s beach area, dine on fresh seafood on the deck at Rudee’s on the Inlet Restaurant & Cabana Bar, which has been serving customers since 1983. Rockafeller’s, also located in the Rudee Inlet, is another staple seafood restaurant that has stood the test of time and local patrons love coming back to decade after decade. Several miles away in the Great Neck area, award-winning Coastal Grill is an additional local favorite, known for serving tuna, soft shell crabs and other delicious dishes. Some other tasty options include Leaping Lizard on Shore Drive and the Lucky Oyster Seafood Grill on General Booth Boulevard.
Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Aldo’s Ristorante on Laskin Road is well-known for its high-quality meals and service. And also, not to be missed is the award-winning cuisine at Il Giardino Ristorante (on Atlantic Avenue), the first restaurant in Virginia to have a wood-burning oven. For a more causal Italian food dining experience be sure to grab some New York style pizza, which locals love, at North End Pizza.
While in Town Center, enjoy a delicious Mexican meal at Cantina Laredo, a perfect spot for dining after catching a show at the Sandler Center or Zeiders American Dream Theater, which is just several steps away from the restaurant.
For a quick breakfast bite pick up some mini donuts at Peace Love & Little Donuts or stop by for some sweet treats at Sugar Plum Bakery. If brunch is calling your name, head to Simple Eats Restaurant for a farm-to-table dining experience in a bistro full of vibrant artwork.
And last, but certainly not least, spend an elegant evening at The Historic Cavalier Hotel, visiting its various rooms offering dining and drinks. Savor a delightful meal at Becca Restaurant and Garden, followed by cocktails in the Raleigh Room or the Hunt Room. The Tarnished Truth, also in The Historic Cavalier Hotel, is the first in-hotel distillery in the U.S.
All of these remarkable Virginia Beach establishments will give visitors a taste of the region’s character and traditions.
For more information about local restaurants in Virginia Beach go to: www.dineinvb.com