14 Coastal Virginia Restaurants Offering Great Food With Chesapeake Views

Along Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay, waterfront restaurants bring together fresh flavors and stunning views in one place.

Seafood pulled straight from local waters, classic coastal dishes, and welcoming atmospheres make every meal feel special. These spots turn simple dinners into experiences worth savoring with friends, family, or someone new.

1. The Shanty – Cape Charles, VA

Nestled on the harbor in charming Cape Charles, The Shanty captures the essence of coastal dining with its rustic-chic atmosphere. Fresh seafood arrives daily from local watermen.

Visitors rave about the crab cakes and oyster platters while enjoying stunning sunset views across the bay. The outdoor deck provides the perfect setting for sipping signature cocktails as boats glide by.

2. Bubba’s Seafood Restaurant – Virginia Beach, VA

Family-owned since 1987, Bubba’s sits directly on Lynnhaven Inlet where fishing boats deliver their daily catch. The no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus where it belongs – on incredibly fresh seafood.

Grab a seat on the sprawling deck and watch dolphins play while savoring their famous she-crab soup. When evening falls, the twinkling lights and gentle water sounds create an enchanting dining backdrop.

3. Waterman’s Surfside Grille – Virginia Beach, VA

Perched at the edge of the Virginia Beach boardwalk, Waterman’s offers front-row seats to the Atlantic’s majesty. Their commitment to sustainable seafood means guilt-free indulgence in ocean-fresh delicacies.

Orange Crush cocktails have achieved legendary status among locals and visitors alike. The panoramic oceanfront patio creates the perfect atmosphere for people-watching while enjoying specialties like the crab-stuffed flounder.

4. Big Sam’s Inlet Café – Virginia Beach, VA

Hidden away from tourist crowds, Big Sam’s authentic local vibe makes you feel like you’ve discovered a secret fishing club. Boats dock directly at the restaurant after delivering the day’s catch.

The unpretentious atmosphere welcomes everyone from fishermen to families. Feast on enormous portions of freshly caught seafood while watching boats navigate Rudee Inlet, creating a dining experience that captures Virginia Beach’s genuine maritime spirit.

5. Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center – Virginia Beach, VA

Authenticity reigns at this working marina restaurant where “boat-to-plate” isn’t just marketing – it’s literally how they operate. Watch fishermen unload their catches while you wait for your meal.

The market-style setup lets you select your seafood before it’s prepared. Outdoor seating along Lynnhaven Inlet provides peaceful water views where osprey and herons often make appearances, adding natural entertainment to your fresh-caught feast.

6. Blue Pete’s Restaurant – Pungo, VA

Tucked deep in Pungo’s back country, Blue Pete’s feels like a delightful secret. This rustic gem sits directly on the water, surrounded by marshlands and the quiet beauty of rural Virginia Beach.

Wooden docks allow guests to arrive by boat, creating a genuine backwater experience. Their blackened tuna and homemade hush puppies have achieved legendary status among locals, best enjoyed while watching the sunset paint the marshes gold.

7. Chick’s Oyster Bar – Virginia Beach, VA

Boaters flock to Chick’s docks for the lively atmosphere and spectacular Lynnhaven River views. The sprawling outdoor deck becomes the heart of Virginia Beach’s waterfront social scene during summer months.

Raw oysters harvested from nearby waters shine as the menu’s star. Sunset brings a magical glow to the water while live music creates the perfect soundtrack for enjoying their famous crushes and seafood platters.

8. The Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery – Cape Charles, VA

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, The Oyster Farm offers unparalleled panoramic water views. Their signature oysters are harvested from on-site beds, delivering incredible freshness.

The elegant dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows that frame spectacular sunsets. Savor their seafood risotto while watching boats and dolphins pass by, creating a tranquil dining experience that perfectly captures Eastern Shore charm.

9. Captain Groovy’s Grill & Raw Bar – Norfolk, VA

Colorful and quirky, Captain Groovy’s brings laid-back beach vibes to Norfolk’s Willoughby Bay. The funky nautical decor creates an atmosphere that’s equal parts neighborhood hangout and seafood shrine.

The outdoor deck provides sweeping water views where military ships occasionally pass by. Their famous fish tacos pair perfectly with local craft beers, creating a casual yet memorable dining experience that captures Norfolk’s unique maritime character.

10. The Porch On Long Creek – Virginia Beach, VA

Casual coastal charm meets panoramic water views at this lively spot perched along Long Creek. The wrap-around deck offers front-row seating for watching boats glide toward the Chesapeake Bay while you dig into fresh seafood platters and crisp salads.

Known for its relaxed vibe and local craft cocktails, The Porch delivers the perfect balance of good food, breezy air, and waterfront scenery.

11. Amber Lantern – Chesapeake, VA

Perched above a quiet marina on the Elizabeth River, Amber Lantern pairs classic seafood dishes with an elegant yet comfortable dining room.

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sunset views over the water while guests enjoy specialties like crab-stuffed flounder and fresh-caught fish prepared simply. Whether you arrive by car or boat, the warm service and riverfront setting make every meal feel like a peaceful escape.

12. Surf Rider Restaurant – Hampton, VA

Family recipes dating back generations make Surf Rider a beloved local institution along the James River. Their crab cakes contain virtually no filler – just sweet, local blue crab and subtle seasonings.

The waterfront deck provides peaceful views where river meets bay. Homemade pies cap off meals with sweet Southern comfort, creating a dining experience that balances traditional Chesapeake cooking with stunning water vistas.

13. The Deadrise – Hampton, VA

Named after the iconic Chesapeake Bay workboat, The Deadrise captures authentic maritime heritage while offering modern culinary flair. The industrial-chic space sits directly on Old Point Comfort Marina.

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of Hampton Roads Harbor where massive ships pass by. Their seafood mac and cheese has developed a cult following among locals, best enjoyed with craft cocktails while watching the sunset paint Fort Monroe’s historic walls.

14. The Back Deck – Virginia Beach, VA

Tranquility defines the experience at The Back Deck, where tables sit directly over the calm waters of Long Creek. Arrive by boat or car to this hidden gem tucked behind Dockside Seafood Market.

The relaxed atmosphere encourages lingering over fresh catches and cold drinks. Watch paddle boarders and kayakers glide by as osprey dive for fish, creating a peaceful dining backdrop that feels worlds away from Virginia Beach’s tourist areas.