When it’s time to indulge, Virginia Beach has you covered. This coastal city is packed with cheat-worthy eats, from savory comfort food to decadent desserts. Ready to treat yourself? Here’s your go-to guide for the best cheat meals in town.
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Soak up oceanfront views from the flower-lined patio at Waterman’s Surfside Grille, the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or brunch. Start with bacon-wrapped scallops or buffalo tuna bites, and don’t skip dessert – the Orange Crush cake is a must-try. Of course, no visit here is complete without their iconic Orange Crush cocktail, featuring housemade vodka (from their own distillery), Sprite, and fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Oh! Mochi
Korean comfort food lovers, this one’s for you! Oh! Mochi serves up Korean corn dogs stuffed with either 100% beef or gooey mozzarella and coated in a super crunchy batter before being fried to perfection. For something sweeter, grab one of their mochi donuts – the strawberry shortcake donut pairs perfectly with a refreshing strawberry milk tea or creamy matcha. Before you go, snap a selfie with their neon sign that reads, “Love you so mochi.”
Beachside Social
Diner vibes meet beachy fun at Beachside Social, a 10,000-square-foot space filled with games like floor shuffleboard, giant Jenga, and bocce ball. Pale pink neon signs, indoor palm trees, and chrome bar stools set the scene while you sip a fresh mojito or margarita. Pair it with a plate of crispy tater tots or gooey cheese curds and challenge your friends to a tabletop board game showdown.
De Rican Chef Restaurant
For some Puerto Rican home cooking, head to De Rican Chef Restaurant. This colorful, Latin-inspired space sets the backdrop for indulging in flaky beef empanadas or the Rican Nachos, made with crispy plantain chips and topped with roast pork and vegan chorizo. Don’t miss the Rican Burger, loaded with roasted pork, grilled onions, and a drizzle of cilantro aioli – delicious comfort food with a Latin twist.
Belvedere South
Brunch with a view? Yes, please! Tucked inside the Moxy Hotel, Belvedere South offers a retro diner experience with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean. Classic breakfast favorites like French toast, pancakes, and crispy bacon share the menu with savory options like crab cake omelets. For an up-close dining experience, snag a blue bar stool by the open kitchen and watch the chefs in action.
Chick’s Oyster Bar
Rustic clam shack vibes, live music, and waterside deck seating make Chick’s Oyster Bar a Virginia Beach classic. Start with the crispy fried oyster basket or firecracker shrimp tacos, and don’t miss the sweet potato fries coated in cinnamon and sugar – essentially a dessert masquerading as a side! Top off your meal with their rum raisin bread pudding, served warm and topped with a scoop of ice cream and decadent caramel drizzle.
Virginia Beach Farmers Market
Start your day at the Virginia Beach Farmers Market, where you’ll find fresh treats and local handmade goods. Get in line early at Klassic Doughnuts to snag a warm glazed donut or apple fritter – these Amish-style treats are worth the long wait. Beyond donuts, the market offers fresh ice cream, homemade soaps, and jars of honey and jam, making it easy to snack and shop.
The Pink Dinghy
With its all-pink facade, neon signs, and picnic tables, The Pink Dinghy is as charming as its name suggests. Seasonal menus keep things fresh but expect brunch favorites like chicken biscuits or chilaquiles. Treat yourself to the lamb dumplings or rigatoni for dinner, and sip on the signature Pink Pony Club cocktail, a mix of vodka, raspberry liquor, and hibiscus.
