10 Best Restaurants in Norfolk VA
As a food lover and Norfolk resident, I have had the pleasure of exploring the city’s culinary scene. From brunch spots to seafood joints, Norfolk has a diverse range of restaurants that cater to all taste buds. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and opinions on the 10 best restaurants in Norfolk VA.
Main Curiosities, Top Statistics, Facts, and Interesting Information about 10 Best Restaurants in Norfolk VA
- Norfolk is home to over 700 restaurants, making it a foodie’s paradise.
- The city’s culinary scene is heavily influenced by its location on the Chesapeake Bay, with many restaurants serving fresh seafood.
- Norfolk has a rich history, and some of its restaurants are housed in historic buildings that date back to the 18th century.
- The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, and many of its restaurants showcase local artists’ work on their walls.
1. Freemason Abbey
Located in a converted church in the historic Freemason District, Freemason Abbey serves American cuisine with Southern flair. Their signature dish is the She Crab Soup, made with sherry and fresh crab meat. I highly recommend trying their Sunday brunch, which features live jazz music and bottomless mimosas.
2. The Grilled Cheese Bistro
If you’re a cheese lover, The Grilled Cheese Bistro is a must-visit. This cozy spot serves up gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches with creative toppings like mac and cheese, bacon jam, and fig spread. I prefer the Grown-Up Grilled Cheese, which features brie, bacon, and caramelized onions.
3. The Ten Top
The Ten Top is a small but mighty restaurant that specializes in locally-sourced ingredients and creative cocktails. Their menu changes frequently, but some standout dishes include the Chicken and Waffles and the Pork Belly Banh Mi. The bartenders are also skilled mixologists and can craft a delicious cocktail to your liking.
4. Terrapin
Terrapin is a fine dining restaurant that serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seafood. The restaurant has won numerous awards for its food, wine list, and service. The menu changes seasonally, but some standout dishes include the Lobster Mac and Cheese and the Seared Scallops.
5. Handsome Biscuit
If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or brunch, Handsome Biscuit is the place to go. This small restaurant serves up massive, buttery biscuits with a variety of fillings like fried chicken, country ham, and pimento cheese. I recommend trying the Hella Fitzgerald biscuit, which features fried chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, and sausage gravy.
6. Codex
Codex is a modern American restaurant that serves up creative dishes in a sleek, industrial setting. The menu changes frequently, but some standout dishes include the Steak Frites and the Pan-Seared Scallops. The cocktails are also top-notch and feature unique ingredients like house-made bitters and infused liquors.
7. The Dirty Buffalo
The Dirty Buffalo is a casual restaurant that specializes in Buffalo-style wings and other comfort foods. The restaurant has won numerous awards for its wings, which come in a variety of flavors and heat levels. I recommend trying the Dirty Wings, which are tossed in a spicy garlic sauce.
8. Commune
Commune is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently, but some standout dishes include the Fried Oyster Po’Boy and the Braised Beef Short Rib. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft beers and natural wines.
9. The Atlantic
The Atlantic is a seafood-focused restaurant that serves up fresh catches from the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. The menu changes daily, but some standout dishes include the Whole Fried Fish and the Lobster Roll. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft cocktails and beer.
10. Luna Maya
Luna Maya is a cozy, family-owned restaurant that serves up authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu features classic dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, as well as unique items like the Oaxacan Tlayuda, which is a large, crispy tortilla topped with black beans, cheese, and your choice of meat.
FAQs
1. What is the best restaurant in Norfolk VA?
This is subjective, as everyone has different taste preferences. However, based on my personal experiences and research, I would recommend Terrapin for fine dining and Freemason Abbey for casual American cuisine with a Southern twist.
2. What is the most popular cuisine in Norfolk VA?
Seafood is a popular cuisine in Norfolk, as the city is located on the Chesapeake Bay and has access to fresh catches. However, the city also has a diverse range of restaurants that serve up cuisines like Mexican, Italian, and Asian.
3. Where can I find the best brunch in Norfolk VA?
There are many great brunch spots in Norfolk, but my personal favorite is Freemason Abbey. Their brunch features live jazz music and bottomless mimosas, and their signature dish is the She Crab Soup.
4. What is the dress code for restaurants in Norfolk VA?
The dress code varies by restaurant, but most casual restaurants do not have a strict dress code. Fine dining restaurants may require business casual attire.