Virginia Beach Restaurants: Where To Eat On The Beach
Virginia Beach is a paradise for seafood lovers, and its culinary scene is nothing short of spectacular. From fresh seafood to Latin-American cuisine, Virginia Beach has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or casual eats with an ocean view, this city has it all. In this blog post, we’ll explore the culinary scene in Virginia Beach and introduce you to some of the top-rated restaurants in the area. We’ll also provide tips on how to enjoy Virginia Beach restaurants beyond dining in so that you can make the most of your experience. So put on your stretchy pants and get ready to indulge in some of the best food that Virginia Beach has to offer!
Exploring Virginia Beach’s Culinary Scene
Virginia Beach isn’t just a place of beautiful beaches but also home to an array of culinary experiences. Whether you’re looking for casual beachside dining or a fine dining experience, Virginia Beach has got you covered. Fresh seafood is a highlight of the culinary scene in Virginia Beach. You can find fresh catches that come directly from local fishermen! And while you dine on fresh seafood, the perfect outdoor seating with stunning ocean views adds more to your overall dining experience. In addition to seafood, Virginia Beach offers local breweries and wineries with unique beverage options to complement your meal. Lastly, don’t forget to try some classic dishes like She-Crab Soup or Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs while exploring Virginia Beach’s culinary scene!
From Seafood to Latin-American Cuisine
Virginia Beach has a diverse range of dining options that cater to all palates. You can savor the fresh seafood offerings, which include oysters, crabs, and shrimp. The growing trend of Latin-American cuisine is also present in Virginia Beach, with many restaurants offering delicious dishes from countries such as Mexico, Brazil, and Peru. Many local restaurants pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. Visitors can also enjoy classic American cuisine at many beachside eateries, such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes. For visitors following a vegan or gluten-free diet, worry not! There are a variety of vegan and gluten-free options available at Virginia Beach restaurants to accommodate dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Top-rated Virginia Beach restaurants
Virginia Beach is a fantastic vacation spot with plenty of top-rated restaurants to choose from. Here are some top-rated restaurants in Virginia Beach, Virginia:
Quemar Wood-Fired Cocina
Quemar is a Latin American & Mexican restaurant featuring traditional, 100% made from scratch dishes that highlight the flavors and techniques true to the region. They proudly source their seafood, meat, and poultry locally from high-quality, ethical providers. Some sample dishes include oysters, carne asada tacos, birria enchiladas, and wood-fired fish of the day. They also have a bar lounge that serves a large collection of high-end tequilas, mezcals, and scratch made craft cocktails.
Terrapin Restaurant
This upscale American restaurant features a menu of locally-sourced ingredients and classic dishes with a modern twist. They offer a variety of options for different dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free and vegetarian dishes. Their dining room is open for dinner seven nights a week. Some sample dishes include their Cesar salad with romaine lettuce, grilled garlic bread croutons topped with anchovies, and pumpkin risotto with sage and maple glazed brussels sprouts that can have coconut milk for a vegan option.
The Atlantic on Pacific
This seafood-focused restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining options with ocean views. Their menu features classic seafood dishes as well as unique creations, such as crab toast, salmon crudo, and Atlantic deviled eggs. They also have a raw bar with oysters and clams, as well as a variety of cocktails and beers.
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
This casual seafood restaurant has been a Virginia Beach staple since 1981. They offer a variety of seafood options, such as crab soups, fish tacos, and shrimp and beach burgers. While Waterman’s is known for seafood delights, it has become synonymous with Virginia Beach’s favorite drink, the Orange Crush.
Blue Seafood & Spirits
This contemporary seafood restaurant offers a menu of dishes with a focus on local, sustainable seafood. They offer a variety of seafood dishes, such as fried oysters, scallops, tempura fried shrimp, and crab cakes. They also have a variety of local beers and signature drinks.
How to enjoy Virginia Beach restaurants beyond dining in
When it comes to dining at Virginia Beach restaurants, there are plenty of options beyond simply sitting down to eat. There are plenty of ways to enjoy Virginia Beach’s culinary scene beyond just dining in. Here are some ideas:
- Takeout and Delivery: Many of Virginia Beach’s restaurants offer takeout and delivery options, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your home or hotel. You can easily place your order online or by phone, and the restaurant will prepare your meal for pickup or delivery. This is a great option if you are looking for a quick and easy dinner or want to enjoy your food on the beach.
- Cooking Classes and Food Tours: For a more immersive culinary experience, consider taking a cooking class or food tour in Virginia Beach. Many restaurants offer cooking classes where you can learn how to make some of their signature dishes. Food tours are also a great way to explore the city’s food scene while learning about the history and culture of the area.
- Outdoor Dining: With Virginia Beach’s mild climate, outdoor dining is a popular option for enjoying the city’s restaurants. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, including patios and rooftop decks, which provide great views of the city and the ocean. Outdoor dining is a great way to enjoy a meal while taking in the sights and sounds of Virginia Beach.
- Beach Picnics: Another great way to enjoy Virginia Beach’s culinary scene is to pack a beach picnic with food from your favorite restaurant. Many restaurants offer picnic-style meals that are perfect for a day at the beach. You can also pick up some snacks and drinks from local markets or bakeries to complete your picnic spread.
If you’re looking for something more than just a meal, check if the restaurant offers special events like live music or happy hour specials. This can add an extra layer of fun and entertainment to your dining experience. Don’t be afraid to try unique or local cuisine either – it’s always a great opportunity to try something new and create a memorable experience.
Lastly, ask locals for recommendations on hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path dining options. They often know the best spots that aren’t as well-known but still offer incredible food and service. With so many options in Virginia Beach, exploring beyond the traditional dining experience can lead to some amazing finds!
Conclusion
Virginia Beach is a foodie’s paradise with its diverse range of culinary options, from fresh seafood to authentic Latin-American cuisine. With so many top-rated restaurants in the area, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! We have curated a list of the best Virginia Beach restaurants that offer an unforgettable dining experience. And if you want to take your food adventure beyond just dining in, there are plenty of food tours and cooking classes that allow you to explore the local culture and cuisine. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, try some of these amazing Virginia Beach restaurants and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
At Quemar Wood-Fired Cocina, you can indulge in delicious Latin-American cuisine cooked over an open fire, creating unique and bold flavors. This restaurant prides itself on using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is bursting with flavor. In addition to the mouth-watering food, Quemar offers live music on select nights, adding a fun and lively atmosphere to your dining experience. Don’t miss out on their happy hour specials either – it’s the perfect opportunity to try some of their signature cocktails and appetizers.
