Virginia Beach is a city that offers a wide range of culinary experiences. From seafood shacks to upscale dining options, there's something for everyone.
But if you're looking for something truly unique, you'll want to explore some of the city's hidden gems.
These restaurants offer a dining experience that goes beyond just great food. They offer something different, whether it's the atmosphere, the menu, or the overall vibe.
These places are perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting.
In this blog post, we'll be exploring some of the best unique restaurants in Virginia Beach. These are the places that offer a dining experience that you won't find anywhere else.
We'll be taking a closer look at what makes these restaurants stand out and why they're worth a visit. So, whether you're a local or just visiting, be sure to add these unique spots to your dining bucket list.
1. Waterman's Surfside Grille
Waterman's Surfside Grille is a landmarked cottage restaurant that serves Chesapeake seafood and grill fare.
The restaurant has a cavernous interior and a nice view of the beach.
The service is attentive, and the food is fresh and of good quality.
The menu offers a good selection of surf and turf dishes, and the drinks are chilled and refreshing. The prices are a bit high, but the restaurant is worth exploring.
2. The Bee and The Biscuit
The Bee and The Biscuit is a unique restaurant that offers delicious southern cuisine. The shrimp and grits are a must-try, and the drinks are awesome.
The environment is top-notch, with an open-air bar and outdoor seating that's perfect for weekend brunch with friends or family. The wait can be long, but there are plenty of things to do while waiting, including playing outdoor games and shopping for jewelry and other items.
Valet parking is available, and the service is excellent. The food is fresh and flavorful, made from scratch, and the biscuits are amazing.
Mimosa flights and fancy coffees are a must-try. The restaurant is a bit on the expensive side, but it's worth it for the atmosphere and quality of the food.
3. Doc Taylor's Restaurant
Doc Taylor's Restaurant is a charming establishment housed in a converted house. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great spot for a quiet meal.
The menu is interesting, and the food is always delicious. The prices are fair, and the portions are generous. The service is friendly, and the staff is attentive.
Doc Taylor's is the quintessential place to have breakfast in Virginia Beach, with an extensive menu that offers something for everyone.
The homemade biscuits and gravy are a must-try, and the Bloody Marys are delicious. The restaurant can get busy, but the wait is worth it.
4. Repeal Bourbon & Burgers
Repeal Bourbon & Burgers is a unique restaurant that offers a Prohibition-era vibe and signature cocktail creations.
The food menu is limited but the burgers are savory and juicy, and the truffle mac & cheese and parmesan french fries are must-try sides.
The selection of bourbon and whiskey is extensive and reasonably priced. The staff is welcoming, knowledgeable, and attentive.
The interior could use an upgrade, but the atmosphere is excellent. This place is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food, drinks, and a unique dining experience.
5. Le Yaca Virginia Beach
Le Yaca Virginia Beach is a unique restaurant that offers traditional French bistro fare. The white tablecloth dining room has a light wood interior that creates a calm and pleasant atmosphere.
The menu has a wonderful balance of choices, within European/French cuisine, and the Chef always has an interesting creation or two to choose from as a "special" for that evening.
The food is delicious and unique, and the presentation is delightful, executed with great care. The wine list has a broad array of types and regions to choose from.
The staff is welcoming, experienced, knowledgeable, professional, and clearly dedicated to providing a total dining experience. Le Yaca Virginia Beach is a fine dining restaurant that is well worth the price.
6. FIREBREW Bar & Grill
FIREBREW Bar & Grill is a unique restaurant that offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. With an open kitchen concept and no microwaves, they serve up high-quality dishes that are sure to impress.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place for a date night or a night out with the family.
The appetizers are a must-try, and they have a great beer and mixed drink list. The owners are on-site and very accommodating, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.
With excellent service and outstanding food, FIREBREW Bar & Grill is a top-notch dining experience.
7. Whiskey Kitchen
Whiskey Kitchen is a semi-upscale bar and restaurant that serves amazing food, beer, cocktails, bourbon, and whiskey.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the service is quick and friendly. The menu features large portions of food ranging from pizza to traditional entrees.
The restaurant has an excellent beer list and a great selection of whiskey served in 2 oz portions. The staff is professional and knowledgeable about the drinks and food.
The acoustics of the layout make it sometimes loud when crowded, but it adds to the lively atmosphere. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, Whiskey Kitchen is definitely worth a visit.
8. 1608 Crafthouse
If you're looking for a unique dining experience, look no further than 1608 Crafthouse.
This unassuming restaurant may not look like much, but the food and beer selection are excellent.
From the perfectly cooked and seasoned dishes to the wide variety of craft beers and spirits, this place is a must-visit for foodies and beer lovers alike.
The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make for a great dining experience. Whether you're looking for a quick meal or a leisurely brunch, 1608 Crafthouse is the perfect spot.
9. Hearth Wood Fired Cuisine & Craft Beer
Hearth Wood Fired Cuisine & Craft Beer is a warm and sophisticated restaurant that serves New American dinners, wood-fired pizza, craft beer, and cocktails.
The unique flavors of the dishes and the extensive beer list make it hard to choose between all the options.
The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, and the service is excellent. The atmosphere is great for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The desserts are also excellent and worth trying. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, Hearth Wood Fired Cuisine & Craft Beer is definitely worth a visit.
10. Aldo's Ristorante
Aldo's Ristorante is a unique Italian restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience.
The warm and traditional setting is perfect for a fine dining experience or a romantic dinner. The wood-fired pizzas and pastas are delicious and the local fish is always fresh.
The weekend piano bar adds to the ambiance and creates a lively atmosphere.
The attentive service and knowledgeable waitstaff make dining at Aldo's Ristorante an unforgettable experience.
11. Heirloom
Heirloom is a unique restaurant that offers farm-to-table cuisine with innovative dishes, oysters, steak, wines, and cocktails.
The restaurant has a relaxed yet elevated vibe, with a casual elegance that makes it perfect for special occasions. The food is beyond delicious and is presented with passion and detail.
The selection is of a smaller scale, which ensures that each plate is prepared to perfection. The service team is fast, friendly, knowledgeable, and never intrusive.
The atmosphere is hip and chic and intimate, making it a great spot for a night out. The total cost for a meal is reasonable, and the drinks are amazing. Heirloom is highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique dining experience.
12. Steinhilber's Restaurant
Steinhilber's Restaurant is a unique dining experience with a warm and historic ambiance. Set in a non-commercialized area, this restaurant is like a house turned into a dining venue with access to a lake and a large backyard.
The menu offers a beautiful arrangement of dishes, with a focus on seafood and American cuisine.
Cocktails are made to perfection and often use herbs grown in their garden. The service is prompt and attentive, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
The outdoor seating area overlooking the water and side gardens is perfect for watching the sunset. This is a place where you can enjoy a wonderful meal in a laid-back and elegant atmosphere.
13. Il Giardino Ristorante
Il Giardino Ristorante is a unique Italian restaurant with a clubby ambiance.
The restaurant has been providing upscale Italian dining near the beach since 1985. The wood-burning oven adds to the authenticity of the food.
The vast wine selection complements the amazing Italian dishes on the menu.
The service is professional and attentive, making dining at Il Giardino Ristorante a memorable experience.
14. Civil Libation Bistro
Civil Libation Bistro is a unique restaurant that offers top-notch service and creative dishes made with fresh ingredients.
The presentation and flavor of each dish showcase the skill of the chef. The locally brewed draft beer and handmade libations are a must-try.
The atmosphere is trendy and hip, with a covered patio for outdoor seating. The brunch menu could benefit from more options, but the vegan choices are decent.
The staff is friendly and attentive without being obtrusive. It's worth the higher prices for the gastronomic magic that awaits.
15. Commune
Commune is a unique restaurant that prides itself on locally sourced ingredients. The menu is filled with delicious and fresh dishes that are made from scratch.
The atmosphere is rustic and chic, with a backyard garden that provides produce for many of the dishes.
The service is excellent, with knowledgeable staff who are happy to help with any questions.
Commune is a great place for brunch or a casual dinner, with a menu that will satisfy any craving. If you're in the mood for something different, Commune is definitely worth a visit.
16. Esoteric
Esoteric is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a unique dining experience. The modern and minimalist interior creates a relaxed and conversational atmosphere.
The food is nothing short of amazing, with the head chef creating spectacular dishes that are packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.
The beer and wine selection is excellent, and the cocktails are refreshing and delicious. The staff is warm, welcoming, and attentive to every need.
Reservations are recommended for this popular spot, where the pimento cheese and crackers, duck tacos, and steak and Farro bowl are highly recommended. Don't miss out on the oatmeal cookie skillet for dessert, which is simply amazing.
17. Icehouse Restaurant
Icehouse Restaurant is a local mainstay that has been serving American surf 'n' turf since 1910.
This unique restaurant offers a family cooking feel to all the dishes served, even at breakfast. The daily specials are king here, with great deals waiting almost every night of the week.
The prime rib specials on Friday and Saturday night are not to be missed. The food is outstanding and the service is friendly and attentive.
If you're looking for a nice relaxing dinner, Icehouse Restaurant is the perfect place to grab a bite with friends on a Friday night.
18. Tautog's Restaurant
Tautog's Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers a unique dining experience.
The historic cottage provides a cozy and maritime ambiance that perfectly complements the phenomenal menu. With prices around $20 a plate, the food is reasonably priced and delicious.
The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to help. The restaurant is a popular local seafood eatery with porch seating.
If you're ever in town, Tautog's Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
