Here are the Best Virginia Beach Boardwalk Restaurants

Here are the Best Virginia Beach Boardwalk Restaurants

Virginia Beach boardwalk has been named one of the Top 10 U.S. Boardwalks by National Geographic and is one of the most popular attractions when you visit Virginia Beach (VB). From fine dining restaurants to boardwalk vendors selling you cold ice cream on a hot summer day, the VA Beach oceanfront has been a place to visit for generations. The history of the boardwalk is filled with change, reconstruction and new beginnings. When it was originally constructed in 1888 in conjunction with the Princess Anne Hotel (one of the country’s most luxurious resorts at the time) the boardwalk was made of wooden planks that ran between 12th and 16th Streets. However, in 1907 the boardwalk succumbed to a fire that began in the Princess Anne Hotel.

In 1926, the construction of a new, concrete boardwalk was completed along the same time as the opening of the Cavalier Hotel in 1927. Today, the boardwalk hosts many activities from festivals, live acts, concerts, outdoor art showcases and sports competitions. No matter what time of year, Virginia Beach consistently buzzes with life and culture.  During the day visitors stroll along the boardwalk, passing the delicious wafts of seafood coming from local restaurants. Gift yourself delicious culinary bites from restaurants with stellar views or iconic boardwalk snacks on the go. On the VB the food options are seemingly endless and the restaurants near the Virginia Beach Boardwalk are quieter and often offer a more laid-back atmosphere than those found on most boardwalks.

While we highly recommend a Virginia Beach vacation making sure you enjoy the best restaurants on the boardwalk takes some planning and that’s why booking a food tour is beneficial.  The tours will give you the opportunity to learn more than just the food but also the history of Virginia Beach and the surrounding area.  With over 30 restaurants along the oceanfront, there is something to meet everyone’s needs. Besides, there’s nothing like enjoying great food and soaking up the laid-back atmosphere that comes with chill beach shops, classic surf vibes and the overall ease that comes with living at the beach. This article aims to guide you to the best Virginia Beach Boardwalk restaurants… Bon Appétit!

 

Restaurants Serving the Best Seafood on Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Because it is situated on the coastline, Virginia Beach chefs are accustomed to serving the best catch from the sea. From oysters on the half shell and the signature creamy She Crab soup to more innovative dishes, there are so many ways to indulge in fresh seafood.

Waterman’s Surfside Grille

Located at the south end of the boardwalk, Waterman’s has been a favorite local establishment for nearly 30 years. Waterman’s is known all over the Beach for fresh seafood, tender steaks, ocean views and signature cocktails especially Virginia’s Original Orange Crush. The restaurant was built in 1981 by the Standing Family and for three generations, they have been serving great food with an ocean view. They only closed briefly for a major renovation in 2007 and re-opened as Waterman’s Surfside Grille and today, still serves the freshest coastal seafood using traditional family recipes passed along from generation to generation. It is undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in Virginia Beach that you can’t afford to miss visiting. The restaurant is clean, well decorated, surrounded by beautiful natural flowers and the food is just wow.

We recommend the famous crab dip for an appetizer and hush puppies instead of the chips, you will not be sorry. The Imperial crab is also delicious. After having your fill browse the quaint shop (The Beach Nut Boutique) within the restaurant where you can find a plethora of beautiful outfits, souvenirs for family, home goods or body care products. To elevate your experience they also bring in a regular lineup of live music that you can enjoy.

Practical Information

Address: 415 Atlantic Ave Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Call: (757) 428-3644

Hours: Sun: 9am-10:30pm          Mon-Thu: 11am-10pm        Fri-Sat: 11am-10:30pm

21^st Street Seafood Company

This laid-back restaurant serves seafood specials alongside steaks, pasta & crab boils, beer and wine. 21st Street is the place to go if you want homemade-like she-crab soup, oysters and Rockefeller. They have an excellent Raw Bar and an excellent menu selection for children. Here you have a chance to degust tasty crab legs, fried prawns and crab cakes and taste good key lime pie, biscuits and waffles. Order she crab soup, steamed oysters, king crab legs and coleslaw they are superb and portions are more than generous. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating at your service at this bar and customers often reserve a table at their either setting. If you craving for a tipple you can get decent draught beer their soy French, and English coffee comes highly recommended. At 21st Street Seafood Raw Bar, you can hold any party, whether it’s an anniversary, a wedding or a birthday party. This restaurant is well-known for its superb service and pleasant personnel who are always willing to assist you.

Plan your holiday better by learning about the Best Resorts in Virginia Beach.

Practical Information

Address: 2106 Pacific Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Call: +1 757-648-8688

Hours: Sun-Thu: 11am-10pm                     Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm

Catch 31

Catch 31 is a Beachside Hilton restaurant & eatery offering upscale seafood & raw bar items, with a seaside patio. Premier location next to the beach in the midst of the Virginia Beach boardwalk bustle, Catch 31 makes the most of it with a gorgeous dining area and elegant outdoor starting. Found on a street with numerous family-friendly joints but Catch 31 has gone a little upscale and the prices reflect that. It is inspired by farm to table menu of hardwood grilled fish, succulent steaks, wood-fired baked flatbreads, decadent desserts and an incomparable raw bar. Their chefs source the freshest produce and seafood daily from local farms and docks to be expertly prepared any way you order it. Located basically in the shadow of King Neptune himself at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Catch 31 is a prime location for outdoor eating. With views of Neptune Park, in addition to the unbeatable view of the Atlantic Ocean, we like coming here when there’s a concert in the park. Sit at the open-air fire pit and enjoy a menu highlighting the best of Coastal Virginia cuisine and free live entertainment nightly in season. We recommend their Virginia Blue Crab Cake appetizer, and Orange Crush. Pay a visit for an upscale-casual dining experience on the oceanfront.

Practical Information

Located in: Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Address: 3001 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Hours: Open 24 hours

Call: +1 757-213-3474

Reservations: opentable.com

 

Restaurants Serving the Best Italian Fare on Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Mannino’s Italian Bistro – Oceanfront

Mannino’s Italian Bistro is an upscale casual restaurant offering “Olde World” Italian cuisine infused with updated New York stylings, an extensive wine list, and a full bar selection. When the father and son Chef team of John Rosario & John Matthew Mannino (father and son, respectively) partnered with sommelier Daris Gavin to open “Olde World” Italian Bistros the goal was to give patrons great Italian food. Basically, they are an upscale casual restaurant offering Italian cuisine. This is the fourth location of the Italian eatery and the third in Virginia Beach. Other Beach locations include Kempsville and Thoroughgood. Mannino’s is at the foot of the Mayflower in the former Sofia’s North End Grill, and between Pocahontas Pancake House and North End Pizza. The 140-seat restaurant features the same Old World cuisine as Mannino’s other locations, including the award-winner She Crab Soup and noted Tortellini Mannino. The family works with great passion and attention to detail to ensure that their clients feel at home while enjoying their dining experience. In addition to serving great food with fresh ingredients, they make mozzarella, pasta sauces, salad dressings and even tiramisu in-house, every day. Their Crab Soup has won numerous awards including induction in the East Coast Crab Soup Classic Hall of Fame. Do not leave without trying one of their private-label wines to accompany your dinner.

Practical Information

Address: 4402 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Call: +1 757-474-4446

Hours: Mon-Thu: 5pm-10pm         Fri-Sat: 5pm-11pm         Sun: Closed

Menu: places.singleplatform.com

Reservations: opentable.com

Isle of Capri

Originally opened in 1952 its home to magnificent Italian Cuisine and oceanfront panoramic Virginia Beach views. The Isle of Capri restaurant is almost as famous for its history as it is for mouthwatering Italian cuisine. Pasquale Arcese continues the family’s delicious Italian cooking tradition as Executive Chef*. Featuring a carefully selected menu of over 260 international wines that are perfectly paired with our robust and flavorful Italian entrée and antipasti, Isle of Capri elevates the dining experience in Virginia Beach. Whether you’re there for the food or the ambiance, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled worlds away.  Isle of Capri, a fine-dining Italian restaurant will present you with a delicious menu of pasta dishes, veal, chicken, seafood and other house specialties. Take advantage of their happy hour prices for cocktails, wines, and beers. They also have specials on their meals all meant to spoil you. This is a great place for a romantic date or a luxurious outing with friends.  For easy access ride the express elevator to the 6th floor of the Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach to begin your next amazing dining experience. So the next time you’re craving authentic Italian, opt for a night out at the Isle of Capri and prepare to be impressed on every count! As this restaurant is consistently voted as a must-try.

Practical Information

Address: 3900 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach

Call: +1 757-428-2411

Hours: Mon- Sun: 5pm – 9pm

Dress Code: Resort evening attire is recommended

Reservations: opentable.com

Il Giardino Ristorante

Tony Gargiulo’s (the owner) 1983 trip to Florence, Italy sparked the inspiration for Il Giardino Ristorante. While there he saw a wood-burning oven and wanted to make it the centerpiece of his own restaurant. Two years later, he had the first wood-burning oven in Virginia inside his restaurant, providing a one-of-a-kind experience to Virginia Beach diners. Consequently, for the last 30-plus years, Il Giardino has been serving fresh-baked focaccia bread and pizza from the restaurant’s wood-burning oven. From the upscale ambiance to the modern, warm Italian décor, Il Giardino has been crafted to satisfy the senses. The chefs at this eatery have carefully created a menu with generous portions of pasta, veal, seafood, chicken, steak and vegetarian choices. Every dish is prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Il Giardino is a favorite among both locals and visitors to Virginia Beach and is the perfect destination for a special night out, family dinners, business meetings, or gatherings with friends on a Friday night. Don’t forget to try the tiramisu or the house favorite chocolate cake or NY-style cheesecake.

Practical Information

Address: 910 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Call: +1 757-422-6464

Hours: Mon: 5-9pm         Tue-Thu & Sun: 5-10:30pm          Fri-Sat: 5-11pm                 

Reservations: opentable.com

 

Virginia Beach Boardwalk Restaurants with the Best View

Virginia Beach has 29 miles of scenic waterways, from the ocean to the inland bays and you will always enhance your dining experience when you enjoy a meal by the water. These waterfront restaurants range in style and budget, from laid-back beach bars and casual family-friendly eateries to upscale restaurants.

Orion’s Roof Garden & Dining

When writing about Orion’s Roof will it is hard to begin with the food. It is the view about the view and always the view that will capture your attention. Orion’s Roof is a sleek restaurant perched 23 stories above the Atlantic shore, offering an unparalleled vista. In short, the view from its windows is serious. Sitting atop the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront, each of the restaurant’s 240 seats boasts a window view; the lucky ones stare down upon a ribbon of pale sand pulled taut against a sea of endless blue.

From a vantage point beside a huge window, you will have the sensation of being on a cruise ship far from shore. The Atlantic stretches before you a view matched only by Orion’s extraordinary cuisine.  Orion’s Roof specializes in the unique blend of cuisine known as Nikkei, a term that refers to the many Japanese who emigrated to Peru and other countries at the turn of the 20th century. As they adapted to their new homeland, the immigrants began blending Peruvian flavors with Japanese dishes. The restaurant’s menu of Asian fusion, coastal, dishes and classic sushi paired with eclectic cocktails, a  Sake and wine selection creates true umami. Orion’s Roof offers guests an upscale dining experience surrounded by arguably the most amazing views on the East coastline.

Practical Information

Located in: Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Address: 4201 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Phone: +1 757-937-4222

Hours: Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm

Reservations: opentable.com

Ocean House

Ocean House is a casual seafood restaurant serving local catch & burgers, with a beachfront patio & live music. A magnificent view of Virginia Beach Boardwalk is what you can expect after dining at this restaurant. Ocean House Waterfront Seafood offers you good fish tacos, fried prawns and fish sandwiches. Looking out over the Virginia Beach Oceanfront from its second-story deck, the perspective here is hard to beat. With live music every night and a menu of specialty drinks like the Beach Bum Rum Runner, with light rum, dark rum, coconut rum, OJ, pineapple juice and a splash of raspberry liqueur, this is the perfect place for those on full-on vacation mode.  While you are here try the Oysters, the crispy fried oysters with Old Bay cream sauce, bacon and potatoes, are from the nearby Eastern Shore, which is just a quick trip across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel from Virginia Beach.

Searching for vegan restaurants in Virginia Beach? Click here.

Practical Information

Address: 1905 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Phone: +1 757-425-8600

Hours: Mon-Sun: 11am-11pm

 

The Best ‘Farm/Tide to Table’ Restaurants in Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Virginia Beach has proudly embraced the farm-to-table movement. Farm/Tide-to-table restaurants utilize the freshest, seasonal local ingredients in their dishes. The only thing better than indulging in a delicious meal is knowing that you’re supporting local farmers, growers and watermen.

TuLu Seaside Bar and Grill

The Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront in 2020 opened two chef-driven signature restaurants. In addition to Orion’s Roof, the hotel’s rooftop dining venue led by Chef Hisashi Araki*, the hotel debuted Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill, an oceanfront restaurant led by Executive Chef Paul Newman* that offers seasonal, modern American fare. Providing scratch cooking with an emphasis on healthy, mindful eating, the menu serves everything from breakfast to bar snacks. Tulu can accommodate 140 guests and has patio seating and a bocce lawn. Inspired by seaside health and farmer’s markets, Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill combines premium, locally-sourced ingredients with a relaxed, natural environment to create a fresh and healthy alternative to Oceanfront dining. Pressed juices, power bowls, oversized salads and regional elements put a bright, Tulu spin on American fare. With a breezy seaside patio serving up some of the best ocean views on the East Coast, Tulu is sure to be your new go-to spot for fresh, healthy Oceanfront dining. Tulu’s inventive and modern bar features an extensive wine list, Virginia craft beers, and signature cocktails from Virginia Beach’s own Tarnished Truth Distilling Co.

Practical Information

Located in: Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Address: 4201 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Call: +1 757-937-4252

Hours: Sun-Thu: 7am-10pm        Fri-Sat: 7am-11pm

Reservations: opentable.com

Harvest

Farm-to-Beach means that the food they serve comes direct from local farms to your plate right here at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. They deliberately use locally sourced, sustainable meats and produce. Not only does this allow us to serve the freshest, highest quality food, but we get to support our local farmers and businesses at the same time. Furthermore, they support local farmers and businesses. The Rooftop Lounge at Harvest is an experience not to miss, take in the fresh ocean air and unobstructed oceanfront views while sampling the menu and sipping some cold tipple. Order the Horchata Iced Latte with almond milk its yummy! With its perfect blend of flavor. Pair this beverage with a Beach Burrito, oh! Excellent and you add home fries and coffee for $3*. Highly recommended is the nicely cooked buffalo chicken, buffalo chicken sandwiches and quinoa salads always on offer. Furthermore, it should also be noted that they make good smoothies. My “Blazing Star” smoothie was nice and thick and not too sweet. Finally, the food at Harvest is fabulous especially paired with their very attentive and friendly service.

Practical Information

Address: 1718 Atlantic Ave Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Call: (757) 937-5309

Hours: Mon-Thu: 8:30am-10 pm     Fri: 8:30am-Midnight    Sat-Sun: 7:30am-Midnight   Sun: 7:30am-10pm

Order: seamless.com

 

The Best Gastro-Pubs in Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Whether you are looking for a classic adult beverage to pair with your meal or for the perfect beach sip, Virginia Beach has a number of places to enjoy your refreshing cocktails. Savor a local favorite – the famous Orange Crush, at various popular bars by the boardwalk.

Calypso Bar & Grill

Locally owned and operated Calypso boasts the largest covered patio and the best happy hour around. Calypso “Where everybody is treated like a local.” It prides itself in offering great food at a great price with superb service. Calypso is the choice destination in Virginia Beach for locals and tourists alike. Conveniently located at 11th street and Atlantic Ave on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront they are merely bike ride or short walk from any of the great events hosted at the Oceanfront every year. From the patio, you can enjoy the smooth sounds of some of the best musical talents Virginia has to offer. Venture to Calypso for drinks, entertainment, lunch and dinner. Savor their creamy crabby seafood soup, which tied for second place in the 2018 East Coast She Crab Soup Classic. They also host evening and afternoon events, including bands, DJs and holiday celebrations, with games like cornhole on the oceanfront patio. Virginia Beach’s Calypso Bar & Grill is a casual, dog-friendly eatery where your pet(s) is welcome to join you at an outdoor table.

Check out new restaurants in Virginia Beach.

Practical Information

Located in: Surfbreak Oceanfront Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection

Address: 1101 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Call: +1 757-228-1972

Hours: Mon-Thu: 2pm-1:30am     Fri: 2am-2pm     Sat: 11am-2am     Sun: 11am-1:30am

                (Happy Hour: 2pm-6pm)

Reservations: opentable.com

Lager Heads

Located right off of the boardwalk, the outdoor seating presents you with the best ocean views. Wash it down with a local beer from their large selection and one of their burgers. Try the Lager Heads Pale Ale, brewed especially for them by the local brewmasters at Smartmouth Brewing. With 12 of the juiciest burgers on the boardwalk and 20 craft beers hand-selected from around the country, Lager Heads is one of the best Virginia Beach bars and burger joints. Drop in for some of the best burgers in Virginia Beach and live music on the 34th street stage. You also have the option to try the sandwiches and flatbreads or sample our strip steaks. Wash your meal down with our selection of microbrews from around the country. Treat your family to Lager Heads for some of the best burgers in Virginia Beach.  In summary 20 beers on tap, 10 signature handmade burgers, fresh seafood, patio dining with fire pits, and live entertainment nightly in season.

Practical Information

Located in: Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Address: 3315 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Call: +1 757-995-1400

Hours: Sun-Thu: 11am-10pm         Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm

 

Virginia Beach Boardwalk’s Best Pizza Restaurant

Mellow Mushroom – Virginia Beach

Craving pizza? Maybe it’s time to try something that will wow your taste buds. Mellow Mushroom is known for its homemade crust and stone-baked pizzas with bold combinations of fresh toppings. And if we can make pizza this tasty and delicious, just imagine what we can do with a munchie, salad, calzone, or even a burger. And, many of our pizzas can be made gluten-free or vegan. Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers were founded in 1974 in Atlanta, Georgia and for over 40 years, Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers have been serving up fresh, stone-baked pizzas to order in an eclectic, art-filled, and family-friendly environment. Each Mellow is locally owned and operated and provides a unique feel focused on great customer service and high-quality food. Mellow is a state of mind, a culture and a way of being with a mission to provide delicious food in a fun and creative environment. They are the originators of hand-tossed, stone-baked classic southern pizza.  In keeping with Mellow Mushroom’s culture the restaurant has a design theme unique to its location.” The artwork curated for this site ties to Bossa Nova-inspired patterning and musical elements. An outdoor mural is one of the artistic highlights of the new restaurant, serving as a gathering point for diners, hotel guests and tourists.

Practical Information

Located in: Sheraton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel

Address: 3501 Atlantic Ave # 118, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, United States

Phone: +1 757-916-8900

Hours: Mon-Thu: 11am-9pm                      Fri-Sun: 11am-10pm