25+ Must-Try Restaurants In Virginia Beach For 2024: From New Hotspots To Iconic Oceanfront Dining
Planning your next culinary adventure in Coastal Virginia? As of late 2024, the Virginia Beach dining scene is hotter and more diverse than ever, mixing timeless local favorites with an exciting wave of new, high-profile openings that are redefining the Oceanfront and surrounding areas. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you an updated, curated list of the must-visit establishments, ensuring you experience the very best of Virginia Beach's incredible food culture, whether you're craving fresh, local seafood or a world-class fine dining experience.
The city’s culinary identity is built on its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, guaranteeing access to some of the freshest ingredients on the East Coast. From hidden local gems serving up classic Southern comfort to stunning rooftop venues with panoramic views, prepare to explore the 25+ essential Virginia Beach restaurants that are setting the standard for quality and flavor this year.
The Hottest New Restaurants and 2024 Openings in Virginia Beach
The landscape of Virginia Beach restaurants is constantly evolving, and 2024 has brought a flurry of exciting new additions, particularly around the revitalized Atlantic Park area and beyond. These are the fresh spots that locals and tourists alike are buzzing about right now, offering unique concepts and a modern twist on coastal dining.
- Mi Vida and The Grill: Set to be major attractions in the Atlantic Park development near The Dome, these two concepts are generating significant excitement. Mi Vida, a high-grossing Mexican restaurant from the DC area, is bringing its acclaimed menu to the Oceanfront, while The Grill promises another high-profile dining option, cementing the area as a new culinary hub.
- Sorella's: A new spot that has quickly gained traction, Sorella's is part of the fresh wave of eateries that opened in 2024, offering a new flavor profile to the Virginia Beach dining rotation.
- Cork & Bull: Featured as one of the hottest new eateries in Coastal Virginia for 2024, Cork & Bull represents the area's growing appreciation for elevated, contemporary dining experiences.
- Basilico Pizzeria & Ristorante: For those seeking authentic Italian, Basilico is a new addition providing fresh, high-quality pizza and classic Italian dishes.
- The Craft: Another new entry on the Coastal Virginia dining scene, Craft is one to watch for unique, modern cuisine and cocktails.
- Brewery Expansion: The craft beverage scene is also booming, with new spots like Aslin Beer and Voodoo Brewing opening their doors, providing excellent casual dining and gathering spots with robust food menus.
Checking out these new venues ensures you are experiencing the absolute latest and greatest of the Virginia Beach food scene.
Iconic Oceanfront Dining and Breathtaking Waterfront Views
No trip to the area is complete without experiencing the classic oceanfront dining Virginia Beach is famous for. These restaurants offer not just incredible food, but also spectacular views of the Atlantic, making them perfect for romantic dinners, celebratory brunches, or a memorable family meal.
The Premier Fine Dining and Rooftop Experiences
For an elevated experience, these venues combine world-class cuisine with unparalleled ambiance and ocean views:
- Orion's Roof: Located high atop the Marriott, this spot is a modern culinary star known for its inventive Asian-fusion cuisine and truly breathtaking, panoramic oceanfront views. It's a prime destination for weekend brunch, lunch, and late-night drinks.
- Becca Restaurant and Garden: Situated within the historic Cavalier Hotel, Becca is consistently ranked as one of Virginia Beach's top-tier dining destinations. It offers sophisticated fine dining in a beautiful setting, complete with an elegant garden.
- Terrapin Restaurant: A long-standing favorite for fine dining, Terrapin is known for its commitment to local sourcing and its refined, contemporary American menu. It's an essential stop for a special occasion.
Casual and Classic Boardwalk Staples
For a more relaxed, toes-in-the-sand vibe, these spots are classics for a reason:
- Waterman's Surfside Grille: A family-owned Virginia Beach institution since 1981, Waterman's is famous for its fresh, local seafood, steaks, and the original "Orange Crush" cocktail. Its oceanfront location is unbeatable.
- Catch 31: Located right in the shadow of the King Neptune statue, Catch 31 is a prime location for outdoor eating with direct views of the boardwalk and ocean.
- Chix Seaside Grille & Bar (formerly Chix on the Beach): A true boardwalk staple, this is a must-visit for its fresh seafood and spectacular location at 7th Street.
- Rudee's Restaurant & Cabana Bar: A long-time local's favorite, Rudee's offers a fun, vibrant atmosphere, especially on their cabana bar deck overlooking Rudee Inlet.
- Tulu Seaside Bar & Grille: Known for its modern coastal vibe, Tulu offers excellent food and a great view, perfect for a relaxed meal near the water.
Local Favorites, Hidden Gems, and Essential Brunch Spots
To truly dine like a local, you need to venture a little off the main boardwalk. These Virginia Beach local favorite restaurants and hidden gems are where the community goes for authentic flavor, great atmosphere, and the freshest ingredients.
The Best of Local and Farm-to-Table
These entities are celebrated for their commitment to locally sourced ingredients and unique, community-focused menus:
- Bay Local Eatery: With multiple locations, Bay Local is a beloved spot serving up locally sourced produce, meats, fish, and seafood. It's a top contender for the "best brunch places with outdoor seating" keyword, offering a vibrant, friendly atmosphere.
- Commune: A pioneer in the farm-to-table movement in Coastal Virginia, Commune’s menu changes with the seasons, focusing on fresh, local ingredients from nearby farms. It's a unique and essential stop for foodies.
- Blue Seafood & Spirits: Consistently ranked among the best, Blue Seafood & Spirits is a local’s choice for incredibly fresh, high-quality seafood in a cozy setting that feels more like a hidden gem than a tourist trap.
- The Atlantic VB (on Pacific): This restaurant prides itself on utilizing local and regional fishermen, crabbers, oystermen, farmers, and producers, making it a true celebration of Chesapeake Bay cuisine.
Hidden Gems and Fine Dining Off the Beaten Path
For those seeking a more secluded or classic dining experience, these spots are highly recommended by Virginia Beach residents:
- Steinhilber's Restaurant: Mentioned as a classic, off-the-beaten-path favorite, Steinhilber's offers a great dining experience in a more traditional setting, perfect for a quiet, memorable meal.
- Zoe's: For a truly romantic and sophisticated evening, Zoe's is a fine dining establishment known for its delicious food and requiring proper attire. It's a destination for those seeking a premium culinary experience away from the boardwalk crowds.
- Doc Taylor's Restaurant: A quirky and fun spot, Doc Taylor's is a local legend, especially popular for its unique atmosphere and hearty breakfast/brunch offerings.
Whether you are looking for a casual seafood takeout spot to enjoy on the beach, a romantic restaurant with a view, or the latest fine dining Virginia Beach has to offer, the city’s culinary scene in 2024 is ready to impress. The sheer variety ensures that every palate and budget can find a perfect meal.
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