Discover 9 of the Best Restaurants in Hampton Roads
If you’re visiting Hampton Roads, these are the top dining destinations you won’t want to miss.
In This Article
1. Circa 1918 Kitchen + Bar in Newport News
Established in 2010, Circa 1918 Kitchen + Bar offers New American cuisine in the historic Hilton Village neighborhood in Newport News, VA. Diners can expect a flavorful menu that elevates classic comfort foods, with standout offerings such as the bison meatloaf and lobster ravioli.
2. Freemason Abbey Restaurant in Norfolk
A local favorite that debuted 35 years ago within a renovated church from 1873, Freemason Abbey Restaurant offers a unique dining experience in Norfolk. Come for the historic architecture; stay for the award-winning she-crab soup, fresh-caught seafood and world-class steaks.
3. Ocean Eddies Seafood Restaurant in Virginia Beach
Originally a snack bar, Ocean Eddies Seafood Restaurant has been family-run for generations and is now located on the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier with stunning ocean views while dining. The menu offers a variety of locally sourced seafood dishes, such as fresh oysters harvested from the Lynnhaven River.
4. Orapax Restaurant and Bar in Norfolk
For over 50 years, Orapax Restaurant and Bar has been a Norfolk staple for delightful dishes. While famous for its Greek cuisine, the expansive menu also includes Italian and American options.
5. River Stone Chophouse in Suffolk
River Stone Chophouse in Suffolk features an Arts and Crafts-inspired design style with dramatic lighting and a stone fireplace. For the casual diner, the menu offers elevated pub fare including a half-pound burger, house-cut fries and Philly cheesesteak spring rolls.
6. Steinhilber’s Restaurant in Virginia Beach
One of the oldest family-owned restaurants in the region, Steinhilber’s Restaurant has served the Virginia Beach community since 1939. It offers water views of the Lynnhaven River along with a classic selection of steaks, chicken and homemade desserts, though it is most famous for its jumbo fantail fried shrimp.
7. Handsome Biscuit in Norfolk
Known for its creative sandwiches served on sweet potato biscuits, Handsome Biscuit provides a quick breakfast for those on the go. Operating until 4 p.m. daily, the restaurant serves both early diners and the afternoon lunch crowd.
8. Venture Kitchen & Bar in Hampton
Venture Kitchen & Bar brings an edge to downtown Hampton, pairing inventive plates with a mood-lit, modern aesthetic. It’s the perfect setting for diving into bold flavors and hand-poured craft cocktails. Plus, with curated themed nights – like Martini Mondays and Taco Tuesdays – there’s always a reason to return.
9. Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue in Norfolk
Credited with serving the world’s first waffle cone at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, founder Abe Doumar eventually brought his invention to Norfolk. Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue maintains a nostalgic diner atmosphere, famous for its curb service, handmade milkshakes and North Carolina-style barbecue.
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