Virginia Beach is a hub of diverse cuisine, and Latin food is no exception. The city is home to an array of Latin restaurants that offer a taste of South and Central American culture.
From traditional dishes to creative fusion cuisine, the options are endless for those seeking a Latin dining experience.
Whether you're in the mood for savory empanadas, juicy grilled meats, or refreshing ceviche, Virginia Beach has something for everyone.
The city's Latin restaurants boast a variety of flavors and styles, from classic Cuban and Mexican dishes to lesser-known Peruvian and Venezuelan cuisine.
Many of these restaurants offer a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, while others provide a more upscale dining experience.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a romantic dinner, you're sure to find a Latin restaurant that fits your needs.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best Latin restaurants in Virginia Beach, highlighting their unique dishes, atmosphere, and overall dining experience.
So grab your appetite and join us as we take a culinary journey through some of Virginia Beach's most delicious Latin restaurants.
1. Gringo's Taqueria
Gringo's Taqueria is a cozy and authentic Latin American restaurant. The food is always fresh and delicious, with generous portions that are sure to satisfy.
The house salsa is a must-try, and the bartender crafts amazing drinks. The service is prompt and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The small space adds to the charm, but it can get crowded quickly, so arrive early. The prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service.
If you're in the mood for some tasty Latin American cuisine, Gringo's Taqueria is a great choice.
2. Pelon's Baja Grill
Pelon's Baja Grill is a casual, counter-serve Latin American restaurant that serves Californian-Mexican meals in a surf-themed space.
The menu offers a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian options, including a vegan chicken option in burritos and veggie nachos.
The food is prepared quickly and is reasonably priced. The fish tacos are a must-try, although the tortillas could be better pre-heated.
The service is friendly and accommodating, even with food allergies. Pelon's Baja Grill is a great spot for a quick bite and has a cool, laid-back vibe.
3. Camino Real
Camino Real is a Latin American restaurant that serves delicious Mexican food. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience.
The outdoor seating option is a nice touch, especially during nice weather. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including vegetarian options, and the portions are generous.
The margaritas are a must-try, with many flavors to choose from. The decor is festive and adds to the overall ambiance of the restaurant.
Prices are reasonable and the service is quick. Camino Real is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for great Mexican food in a fun atmosphere.
4. Side Street Cantina
Side Street Cantina is a vibrant Latin American restaurant that serves delicious Mexican cuisine with a Peruvian twist. The food is fresh and made with good quality ingredients.
The staff is attentive and friendly, providing great service to all customers. The drinks are also fantastic, especially the frozen margaritas.
The restaurant has a funky decor and live music, creating a lively atmosphere. The tableside guacamole and ceviche are must-try dishes, and the pollo fundido and fajitas are also highly recommended.
Prices are fair, and the restaurant is great for both lunch and dinner. Side Street Cantina is a gem worth discovering for anyone looking for authentic Latin American cuisine.
5. The Landing Zone Restaurant & Bar
The Landing Zone Restaurant & Bar is a Latin American restaurant that offers a variety of flavorful dishes.
Customers rave about the fresh and delicious food, as well as the friendly and knowledgeable staff. The portions are large and reasonably priced, making it a great value.
The restaurant has a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of TVs to watch games.
Outdoor seating is also available. Don't miss out on the mango salsa chicken and the Cuban burrito, which are customer favorites.
6. Quemar
Quemar is a Latin American restaurant that offers exceptional veggie dishes and extra flavorful takes on classic Latin American cuisine. The service is outstanding, with staff going above and beyond to make customers feel welcome.
The trendy yet inviting ambiance is complete with live music and dancing. The menu features tapas-sized plates and larger individual or table plates, including a short rib burrito that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
The restaurant is beautifully appointed with suede sofas, table lamps, and Valentine's Day balloon structures. The tortillas are thin, but the dessert, chocolate tres leches cake served with chocolate gelato and fresh strawberry slices, is the star of the meal.
Quemar is a must-visit for anyone looking for an upscale Latin American dining experience with a top-notch tequila bar.
7. Ensenada Mexican Restaurant
Ensenada Mexican Restaurant is a fantastic spot for anyone looking for delicious and affordable Latin American cuisine.
With a great selection of dishes and friendly staff, this restaurant will surely satisfy any cravings for Mexican food. The restaurant has undergone renovations, making the inside brighter and more welcoming.
Complimentary chips and mild salsa are served with every table, and the white sauce is a must-try. The margaritas are also highly recommended.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, Ensenada Mexican Restaurant is definitely a place worth checking out.
8. Criollos: Latin Food
Criollos: Latin Food offers a fantastic dining experience.
With deliciously authentic Latin American cuisine, friendly staff, and a clean, inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking great food and service.
The chuletas and pollo are cooked to perfection, and the salads are crisp and fresh.
The tostones are as big as your hands! Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great Latin American restaurant.
9. La Herradura
La Herradura is a Latin American restaurant that serves up delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine.
The food is fresh and reasonably priced, with lunch and dinner specials available.
The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is inviting. The white salsa/sauce served with chips is a must-try and the margaritas are fantastic.
This is a go-to spot for anyone looking for great Mexican food in the area.
10. El Rincon Tropical
El Rincon Tropical is a lively Pan-Latin restaurant and bar that serves Cuban sandwiches, Puerto Rican eats, and other Latin fare.
The festive digs make for a great atmosphere to enjoy the delicious food and drinks. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the food is authentic and flavorful.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including the red snapper in criolla sauce, pernil with rice and beans, and the Mofongo de mariscos mixto. The Three Milk Dessert is a must-try.
On weekends, there is dancing, adding to the lively vibe of the place. For those who enjoy Puerto Rican food, El Rincon Tropical is a must-visit spot.
11. El Taco Loco Mexican Restaurant
El Taco Loco Mexican Restaurant is a Latin American restaurant that offers a variety of Mexican dishes and drinks. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is perfect for a quick meal or a night out with friends.
The menu includes fajitas, burritos, and seafood soup, but the standouts are the smoked chicken, pork, and beef burritos.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. The table side guacamole is a must-try, and the margaritas are outstanding.
The restaurant is a great option for anyone looking for delicious Mexican food in a relaxed setting.
12. Bahama Breeze
Bahama Breeze is a Latin American restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere and beachy decor.
The food is flavorful and fresh, with generous portions. The signature island drinks are a must-try.
The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant also offers outdoor covered seating and a large indoor-outdoor bar.
Whether you're in the mood for seafood, chicken, or steak, Bahama Breeze has something for everyone.
