Because Virginia Beach is located at the sweet spot where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, there's no shortage of breathtaking views. Combine these spectacular vistas with a vibrant and creative culinary culture, and you'll have yourself a vacation to remember.
Whether you prefer a quieter, less-frequented spot like Rudee Inlet, a bayside getaway like Chic's Beach, or prefer to take in the sights, sounds, and ocean views of the boardwalk, these Virginia Beach restaurants offer a variety of gastric delights and incredible Instagram worthy views.
Updated By Gabriel Kirellos, November 6th, 2021: Since Virginia Beach is a unique place to visit with mesmerizing views and beautiful scenery, there are plenty of restaurants to enjoy the picturesque area there. No matter how much is written about the unique eateries of this town, it will not be enough to cover them all. This list has been updated to include more fabulous restaurants in Virginia Beach that boast beautiful sea views and serve the best food in town.
Ocean Views and Vistas That Can’t Be Beat
There is no shortage of restaurants on the boardwalk that offer a winning combination of ocean views and mouth-watering fare. Restaurants like Chix Seaside Grille & Bar are casual and fun. With a ton of outdoor seating, yummy cuisine like Surf & Turf Shrimp Tacos, and delish drinks like a fresh-squeezed shandy, this spot is a happening hangout.
Tulu Seaside Bar & Grille is known for its oceanfront dining—with an open-air restaurant and bar and an outdoor seating area with amazing views of the Atlantic. This hip spot prides itself on serving up healthy, vibrant cuisine. Add an inventive cocktail menu to the mix, and you have yourself a new fave spot for relaxing during happy hour, having a quick bite for lunch, or sitting pretty with a dinner to die for.
The boardwalk is one of the best spots for seafood lovers—after all, what's the point of visiting a coastal town without indulging in the catch of the day? Restaurants like Waterman's Surfside Grille and Mahi Mah's always take fresh fish to the next level with their menus packed with local seafood faves. These spots have the added bonus of being right on the boardwalk, so you can enjoy dinner while still being part of the action—and people watching, of course.
Ocean Eddie's Seafood Restaurant is another local fave located on the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. This seasonal spot offers optimal ocean views.
If you're looking for something a little more upscale for a romantic evening out or a special occasion, there are plenty of choices. Catch 31 Fish House & Bar is one of Virginia beach's more exclusive spots and offers farm-to-table and tide-to-table options. With the freshest produce and the freshest seafood combined with views of the beach, boardwalk, and Neptune Statue, this chic restaurant has it all.
Salacia Prime Seafood & Steaks is your go-to for both land and sea options. Enjoy the best cuts of steak paired with the freshest seafood at this top-notch eatery with seats overlooking the ocean.
Eye-Catching Inlet Locations Meet Delish Dishes
Looking to take a break from the boardwalk but still want to enjoy a meal with a fantastic view? Lucky for you Virginia Beach is home to a ton of spots that overlook the water. One such spot is Rudee Inlet, which is located at the southern tip of Virginia Beach. Known as a spot for fishing, boating, and other water sports, the Inlet also has several restaurants that will satisfy your senses and offer spectacular waterfront views.
Fresh seafood is the way of the day for Virginia Beach eateries, and Big Sam's Raw Bar is no exception. With daily specials and a menu serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this spot is also a popular hangout for the late-night crowd. The view of the Inlet isn't too shabby, either.
Rudee's Restaurant and Cabana Bar is open-air dining at its best. Known for its gliding tables that offer views of the Inlet and nearby marinas, this spot is a prime place for socializing with a laidback, casual vibe.
Elevate your inlet experience with a visit to Rockafeller's Restaurant. Rockafeller's is a winning combination of high-end fare and a casual, low-key environment that serves up seafood that can't be beaten. The restaurant is family-owned and is also known for its relationships with local merchants to secure only the freshest ingredients. This Virginia Beach staple is no slouch in the view department, either. Outstanding views of the marina are on display no matter where you sit at this local fave.
Chill At Chic’s Beach And Enjoy Bay-Side Beauty
Bask in the beauty by the bay when you visit Chic's Beach (also known as Chesapeake Beach). Take time to chill out like a local while noshing on fresh seafood specialties, sipping popular local drinks like an Orange Crush while digging the waterfront views, and getting a break from the hubbub and bustle of the boardwalk. At Chic's beach, there's a variety of restaurants to suit your fancy.
Chick's Oyster Bar is practically a Virginia Beach institution and is a popular hangout among locals and tourists alike. Don't forget to try Chick's Famous Oyster Shooters or sample some steamed crab legs or house oysters from the raw bar. Whatever you choose, you can guarantee it will be fresh and delicious. The Back Deck is another well-known eatery in the Chic's Creek area. Overlooking the Wolfsnare Creek in the Chesapeake Bay, the views are stunning, and the atmosphere is super casual. Join them for Taco Tuesday and soak in those backyard vibes as you sip a cold craft brew.
Dockside Restaurant and Buoy 44 also serve up faves like crab cakes, scallops, and lobster tails in addition to more casual fare like burgers and fries. Seaside dining has never been so good!
For a more upscale dinner at Chic's Beach, you can't go wrong with One Fish Two Fish. Amazing views, paired with fresh, elegant dishes at this fine dining establishment with a cozy atmosphere. Situated in a pier house next to the Wolfsnare Creek, One Fish Two Fish has a reputation for fresh seafood and an impressive wine list.
There is no shortage of excellent restaurants in Virginia Beach where you can find fresh seafood, creative drinks, good company, and gorgeous views. From the vibrant, bustling boardwalk with ocean views to the bayside beauty and the incomparable Inlet, you can be sure to find a spot to eat, drink, and be merry in this beautiful beach community.
Seafood And Sushi Lovers Must Visit This Restaurant In Virginia Beach
For a fantastic rooftop experience, visitors to Virginia Beach must go to Orion's Roof, located in Virginia Beach. The restaurant boasts spectacular views of the sea and serves the most delicious Sushi and seafood in town. Moreover, the staff at Orion's are all friendly, professional, and experienced. Additionally, the wine is a must-try, the atmosphere is cozy, and the restaurant has a huge parking garage. Orion's Roof is located on the 23rd floor in the Marriott hotel in Virginia Beach.