The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is filled with fun for the entire family. From fun shops filled with sky-high tee shirts and every souvenir imaginable to some seriously fine dining experiences, there is a little something for everyone’s taste, palette, and budget. Read below as we rank some of the best places to eat near the boardwalk, give you links to menus (you’re welcome in advance) and where they're located.
1. Catch 31 | 3001 Atlantic Avenue
Catch 31, loved by locals and visitors alike for nearly 20 years, is a staple of the oceanfront culinary scene. Conveniently located in Neptune’s Park and Part of the Hilton Hotel, it’s an easy place to meet up with folks and catch up over drinks, enjoy their incredible raw bar, and savor views of the boardwalk. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this menu has something for everyone’s tastes. Yes, even your pickiest eater can find something to be excited about. '
2. Il Giardino | 910 Atlantic Avenue
Commonly known as Il G’s by locals, this is a staple of the oceanfront and where folks have come for years to satisfy their Italian cravings. As you walk in, guests are instantly transported to Italy with fountains, statues, and lemons as far as the eyes can see and a menu that’s as equally authentic.
3. The Atlantic on Pacific | 3004 Pacific Avenue
Book your vacation rental, and then secure your dinner reservation at The Atlantic on Pacific, a celebration of seafood from the East and West Coast. Typically busy for dinner service, a reservation is highly recommended as this place knows seafood. They pride themselves on supporting local and regional fishermen, crabbers, oystermen, farmers, and more, so you’ll enjoy a farm and ocean-to-table delight. Known for their daily happy hour from 3-6:00 PM, stop in for their scintillating $1 oysters, a specialty cocktail, and see where the night takes you! A quick glance at their menu and you'll instantly see why it's where the locals go for all things seafood.
4. Beachside Social | 2728 Atlantic Avenue
Rainy day got you down? Need a break from the sun? Beachside Social is here to save the day! Built for gaming and socializing, but don’t sleep on their menu! It’s your typical fast-casual fare with some beach-inspired options like their famous tuna bites, the house-made lumpia, or even a pineapple shrimp quesadilla that is lip-smackin’ good.
5. Harvest | 1718 Atlantic Avenue
When you think you can’t possibly stomach one more french fry or chicken tender, make your way to Harvest, a self-proclaimed farm-to-beach restaurant that aims to serve locally sourced and sustainable meats and produce. With an assortment of hearty salads, sandwiches and wraps, and more you’ll leave feeling good and ready to take on the day!
6. The Shack on 8th | 712 Atlantic Avenue
Come to the Shack for the epic atmosphere and bar games enjoyed by locals, and stay for their tasty food and even tastier beverages. The atmosphere can’t be beat with all the fun and expertly arranged furniture. This is not your average bar scene; little ones are welcomed with plenty of kid’s meal options, and there is seriously endless entertainment and tasty food. From brisket to bahn mi to burrito bowls, The Shack on 8th is a can’t-miss afternoon pit-stop.
7. Waterman’s Surfside Grille | 415 Atlantic Avenue
Locals know Waterman’s, an oceanfront institution. Come for the legendary orange crushes, and stay for the divine cuisine. Conveniently located and providing complimentary valet parking, this is a can’t-miss part of your beach vacation; trust us on this. Make time for Waterman’s.
8. Abbey Road Pub and Restaurant | 203 22nd Street
In the mood for a Beatles-themed restaurant on your beach vacation? World-class pub fare, rockin’ tunes, and being in the thick of the sights and sounds of the resort district are just a few of the reasons why this place should be on your must-see list when you’re in town. Their menu has ample gluten-free and vegan options, a robust kids menu, and a wide range of hours, so you can stop in whenever is best for you.
9. Pacifica | 328 Laskin Road
Looking for an eclectic menu featuring hot and cold tapas? Festive drinks and a fun atmosphere? Pacifica is just what you need! They have a terrific party space and accommodate large groups, so if you’re already traveling with an entourage this would be a great place to get the gang together!
No matter where you choose to dine on the boardwalk or anywhere near the oceanfront, you will have a terrific time! Virginia Beach just does food right!
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