Top 12 Restaurants with Outside Seating in Virginia Beach

Nothing says ‘Summer’ like warm evenings and outdoor dining, and Virginia Beach has no shortage of mouthwatering options to choose from. Whether you’re a local resident or considering retiring in this coastal paradise, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by savoring exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking outdoor settings.

As you immerse yourself in this gastronomic journey, picture yourself savoring mouthwatering dishes and the gentle ocean breeze cooling down the sun’s rays while you’re surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

Let’s delve into our list of the top 12 restaurants with outside seating that offer more than just a meal; they offer an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the best of Virginia Beach’s culinary delights and gets you in the best of the best summertime feeling.

Ocean Eddie’s Seafood Restaurant

We thought it would be great to start off this list by highlighting Ocean Eddie’s Seafood Restaurant – an establishment that is owned by one of Atlantic Shore’s very own residents!

Established in 1949 and still family-owned and operated, Eddie’s embodies the timeless charm of the “old beach” atmosphere, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean that were even featured on the famous show “The Bachelor.”

At Ocean Eddie’s, you’ll be treated to warm and friendly service as you indulge in mouthwatering, fresh, locally sourced seafood options prepared to perfection. Their menu boasts an enticing raw bar, an irresistible temptation for seafood enthusiasts. And to complement your dining experience, don’t miss their famous frozen drink specials, crafted with delightful fresh fruits for a refreshing treat.

Ocean Eddie’s Seafood Restaurant is not just a local favorite but a cherished dining destination for visitors seeking an authentic taste of Virginia Beach’s culinary delights. Enjoy a memorable meal with panoramic views, and celebrate the harmonious connection between Atlantic Shores and this exceptional culinary gem.

Catch 31 Fish House & Bar

Nestled at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Catch 31 Fish House & Bar is a seafood haven where culinary delights meet seaside fun.

Located along the infamous Virginia Beach Boardwalk, this restaurant showcases incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean while offering inspired farm-to-table cuisine from some of the top-rated local chefs. Their upscale menu, including a raw bar, hardwood grilled fish, wood-fired baked flatbreads, and more, will treat your taste buds to a brilliant array of flavor profiles.

Whether you dine on their open-air patio, enjoy the view of Neptune Park and the Atlantic Ocean, or savor the cozy ambiance inside, Catch 31 promises an enchanting experience for seafood lovers alike.

Waterman’s Surfside Grille

With a legacy that spans over four decades, Waterman’s Surfside Grille stands as one of the most iconic beachfront restaurants in Virginia Beach.

Family-owned and operated since 1981, Waterman’s has become a staple in the Virginia Beach community. Known for its fresh seafood, tender steaks, and signature cocktails, including the famous ‘Virginia’s Original Orange Crush,’ Waterman’s exudes a captivating charm that draws locals and visitors to its tables.

Their spacious outdoor patio with fire pits and string lights elevates the dining experience, making it a true gem along the boardwalk.

Steinhilber’s Restaurant

Steinhilber’s Restaurant proudly holds the title of Virginia Beach’s oldest family-owned restaurant and has been a beloved foodie destination since 1939. It offers upscale fare and elegant courses that include fantail fried shrimp, ocean scallops, filet mignon, and more. They also have mouthwatering options for vegetarians and vegans to choose from as well!

Recently adorned with a vast outdoor patio featuring fire pits and water views, Steinhilber’s blends elegance with grandeur, so be prepared to savor their renowned fried shrimp and a plethora of coastal delights that will leave you craving more.

Terrapin Restaurant

Terrapin Restaurant is the perfect choice for a taste of contemporary American cuisine crafted with locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients. The food is modern with a classic twist, with seasonal items being introduced frequently to keep their menu fresh and exciting.

Awarded with AAA Four-Diamond status, this oceanfront gem boasts sweeping views of northern Virginia Beach and creates an idyllic outdoor terrace setting for a romantic culinary experience.

Chick’s Oyster Bar

For over 25 years, Chick’s Oyster Bar has been a Virginia Beach favorite for locals and visitors, offering the freshest seafood sourced from the nearby Atlantic waters.

With a casual and inviting atmosphere, Chick’s is the epitome of waterfront outdoor dining, where you can relish the salty sea air, the warm sun, and some of the finest seafood on the East Coast. Their outdoor bar and patio, set against the backdrop of stunning water views, create an experience that perfectly captures the essence of laidback, coastal living.

Calypso Bar & Grill

Calypso Bar & Grill is a culinary treasure at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, known for serving up fresh seafood and crafting delectable cocktails.

The restaurant’s expansive covered patio – one of the largest ones in the area – offers panoramic oceanfront views that set the stage for a delightful dining experience. As you indulge in their coastal delicacies, be prepared to groove to the rhythm of upbeat live music, adding a dash of entertainment to your seaside soiree.

The Bee and The Biscuit

If you’re looking for a different kind of atmosphere from the typical beachside tiki bars, you’ll love The Bee and The Biscuit.

Nestled in a charming original 1919 cottage in farm country, The Bee and The Biscuit whisks you away on a culinary journey showcasing breakfast and lunch dishes made with sourced produce grown by local farmers. They serve a variety of fresh-made pastries, sandwiches, benedicts, omelets, salads, and seasonal specials that make for a truly unique and delicious dining experience. And don’t forget to quench your thirst with freshly squeezed juices and explore a robust cocktail list that perfectly complements the delightful fare.

Murphy’s Irish Pub

Murphy’s Irish Pub is a paradise for lovers of traditional Irish cuisine and the freshest local seafood.

This authentic Irish Pub is a family-friendly, inviting restaurant along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. One of the favorite local and tourist foodie destinations, you’ll find daily food and drink specials alongside fresh, local seafood and Irish Specialties.

Their outdoor patio and bar, with flat-screen TVs, live Irish entertainment, and a four-sided fireplace, invites you to cozy up with your loved ones.

Hot Tuna

As the sun sets, the festivities begin at Hot Tuna.

This beloved local haunt tantalizes visitors’ senses with delectable seafood and a vibrant atmosphere. This isn’t the most elegant establishment on our list, but Hot Tuna offers a 5-star experience with a surfer-chic dress code. Here you’ll enjoy locally-sourced food staples, such as fresh-caught Ahi Tuna, gourmet gouda burgers, and adventurous, inspired cocktail pairings.

Their outside bar, adorned with fire pit tables, sets the stage for an unforgettable night of enjoyment in a more lowkey, casual environment.

Rudee’s Restaurant and Cabana Bar

Located on the water’s edge, Rudee’s Restaurant and Cabana Bar captures the essence of pure coastal dining, offering breathtaking views and mouthwatering bites.

Their Cabana Bar is the ultimate outdoor haven, where you can relish the sight of boats gliding through Rudee Inlet while savoring delicious food and drinks. Whether you’re dining inside or out, Rudee’s offers an unparalleled culinary journey.

Beach Bully

Beach Bully is a beloved eatery that has been satisfying palates since 1986. Their outdoor picnic benches, set amidst a laid-back ambiance, provide the perfect setting to indulge in their mouthwatering Carolina-style barbecue.

Don’t miss out on their famous Carolina-style pulled pork sandwich, made tangier with a vinegar-based sauce, or their “Beach Bully Sandwich,” sure to tantalize your taste buds. For an authentic BBQ experience, try adding coleslaw directly to your sandwich—their secret to creating the perfect bite!

Esoteric

Nestled within the ViBe Creative District and housed in a historic and charming 1920s-era building, Esoteric is a hidden gem that delights its patrons with its European-influenced fare and locally sourced ingredients.

The enchanting outdoor seating area, adorned with string lights and overlooking an eye-catching garden area, promises an immersive dining experience where you can savor dishes crafted with utmost care and precision.

One unique element of this eatery is that the gardens you overlook provide a lot of the produce and accouterments you’ll find on your plate, adding an authentic and sustainable touch to your dining experience.

Fresh Air and Great Food in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of delectable cuisine complemented by stunning outdoor views. From the mouthwatering seafood delicacies at Catch 31 Fish House & Bar to the inviting charm of The Bee and The Biscuit, each restaurant on this list invites you to indulge in a feast for the senses while enjoying gorgeous outdoor views.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner by the ocean or a lively night of entertainment, these restaurants with outside seating promise a dining experience that transcends mere sustenance. Virginia Beach is ready to delight your palate and captivate your soul under the open skies.