What Food Is Virginia Beach Known For? A Foodie's Guide

Every city seems to have its own culinary identity. Food in Virginia Beach, however, seems to be a bigger deal here than in most places. This city is famous for its vibrant restaurant culture, and it has a longstanding tradition of producing some of the country’s finest seafood. But just as important as preserving these classic coastal dishes is the way our city’s restaurants are constantly pushing the envelope. 

Whether you’re just here for a visit, or Virginia Beach is where you call home, we have a few restaurants we recommend visiting.

Fresh Seafood in Virginia Beach

Tautog’s Restaurant: Enjoy your fresh seafood in a cozy seaside cottage. Indulge in savory entrees like shrimp and grits, or a blackened fish burrito. Great food in a great, family-friendly environment.

Dockside: Dockside Seafood and Fishing Center is just as good for a romantic date as it is for a family dinner. See how the sun hits the water while you wait for your fresh fish to arrive at the table.

Buoy 44: This grill and bar on the Chesapeake Bay is the perfect spot for a Sunday brunch. See how local ingredients can set a dish apart with the Crab Cake Benedict. Buoy 44 is also an excellent spot for dinner and drinks. Be sure to check out the daily specials!

Innovative Eats

The Stockpot: Seasonal ingredients and evolving recipes make each trip to The Stockpot unique. Bone broth, soups, and salads make for what can be called healthy comfort food. The Stockpot is a perfect spot for a cozy breakfast or lunch. And remember: Monday is ramen night!

Taste: Taste is a restaurant, market, and caterer with several locations in Virginia Beach. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients combine for great takes on cafe classics like sandwiches, soups, and salads. You also get to shop a curated selection of food, wine, and gifts.

Home Republic Brewing Co.: You might get so excited about trying one of the many unique beers brewed in house that you don’t even notice the delicious food you also have to choose from. You really can’t go wrong with pairing any of the bold entrees with any of the brews.

Late Night Spots and Comfort Food

Gringo’s Taqueria: A perennial candidate for “Best Fish Taco in Virginia Beach” (and usually the winner), Gringo’s Taqueria is a great place to start or end a night out. See how Virginia Beach takes on a west coast classic.

BoBo’s Fine Chicken: Rich history and family recipes will make you feel right at home at BoBo’s.

: Try the Rustic Spoon for a unique breakfast, lunch, or dinner. A Monte Cristo sandwich in the morning can replenish the soul after a night out. A big bowl of noodles or curry for dinner can give you the best sleep of your life.

Did we miss your favorite restaurant? Let us know! Although we have our old favorites, we also love trying someplace new. Follow us on Instagram to see our latest Virginia Beach food finds.

One of our favorite things about living in Virginia Beach is that there is the perfect restaurant for any craving, any occasion, any hour of the day. See where we build our homes in Virginia Beach, and think about what great restaurant you might want to try first.