23 Cant-Miss Best Restaurants in Norfolk Virginia

Norfolk is a waterfront city in the state of Virginia’s southeastern region, and whether a first-timer or local, you need to find out one or two about restaurants in Norfolk, and not only that, but you could also get your cravings satisfied.

Being a melting pot of culture, ideas, and people, Norfolk is an exciting City with an outstanding landscape, infrastructure, and excellent attractions.

Moreso, this city is perfect for satisfying your cravings and diet with budget-friendly cuisines all over the place.

I’m really sure you will love all our dining lists. Norfolk’s culinary scenes are nothing but exceptional, with restaurants and experienced chefs who use organic ingredients.

If you crave high-quality steaks, pizza, fried calamari, fresh salad, Pasta, and the best seafood, you will find top-notch restaurants in Norfolk to serve you the best.

Therefore, I present to you a list of the best restaurants in Norfolk worth visiting.

Best Restaurants in Norfolk, VA

1. No Frill Bar And Grill

One thing you will definitely enjoy while visiting Norfolk is the American style of cooking.

This brings us to this down-home classic American restaurant in Norfolk, No Frill Bar And Grill.

Firstly, No Frill Bar And Grill serves authentic American dishes cooked with passion, prepared with homemade flavors, and served extremely well in a comfortable, friend-gathering setting.

Besides, the tables, homemade fries, brisket, chicken, cold beer, and even seasonal sides, which will make you smile on the inside, make No Frill Bar And Grill different from any other restaurant in Norfolk.

This place is definitely great for lunch with friends, date night with loved ones, or if you just want to treat yourself to a good meal.

Don’t sleep on the funky chicken salad, fried chicken, and BBQ ribs, one of the most surprising, flavorful, and delicious meals to have here.

The seafood specialties like tempura fried soft-shell crab and fried chump are seasoned to perfection and have just the right texture.

By far the best and only place you should visit for a memorable dining experience and also enjoy the best drinks with lovely happy hour while in Norfolk.

You can make a visit Mondays – Saturdays from 11 am to 9 pm and Sundays 11 am – 8 pm.

Address: 806 Spotswood Ave, Norfolk, VA 23517, United States

2. Freemason Abbey Restaurant

Looking for one of the best restaurants in Norfork where you can enjoy the sleek and classy dining experience? Freemason Abbey Restaurant is where you should step into.

It’s an American restaurant located in a 150-year-old renovated church with an elegant yet casual ambiance serving high-class delicacies. It uses fresh local ingredients that are prepared well to satisfy your cravings.

Being a popular restaurant in downtown Norfolk, Freemason Abbey Restaurant has been locals’ favorite for 33 years.

Hence the menu offers fresh seafood, steaks, fried chicken, fried calamari pasta dishes, French onion soup, and award-winning crab soup, amongst others.

Also, Freemason Abbey Restaurant is with tavern ambiance serving liquors and beers; bartenders are very knowledgeable and attentive.

The staff usually offer excellent options for you and always check back many times to ensure you are happy with your meal.

I highly recommend a stop here, don’t miss out on a great opportunity.

Address: 209 W Freemason St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

3. Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant

Let no aspect of Japanese cuisine get overlooked; consider everything: flavor, color, texture, and overall composition.

When you crave the freshest and highest-quality Japanese food, from Sushi to soups and special rolls, Kotobuki should be your next stop.

This family-owned and operated restaurant was opened in 1999 and offers table seating, a sushi bar, and “Japanese room” seating. The rooms, which are placed on a mock, cut-out floor, allow customers to have the feel of traditional Japanese floor seating without sacrificing comfort.

Hands down, the best restaurants in Norfolk, where you can order and dine in their neatly decorated interior dining area.

However, the menu has a ton of options, including Japanese maki, chicken Teriyaki, pork katsu, Miso soup, Taking, and desserts.

You’ll surely enjoy a variety of seafood, toppings, and a long list of specialty sushi rolls.

Speaking of its ingredients, they are always fresh and sourced from homegrown farmers; the food presentation is top-notch.

Also, Kotobuki has a contemporary Café serving signature cocktails.

Address: 721 W 21st St, Norfolk, VA 23517, United States

4. Monastery Restaurant

Actually, Monastery Restaurant has been serving delicious European cuisine for over 25 years.

With the mission of bringing fresh, locally made ingredients, made in extraordinary ways, to downtown Norfolk, the Monastery’s unsuspecting exterior brick and stained glass facade await a genuine European experience.

Meanwhile, Monastery Restaurant provides its guests with high-quality European dishes in a relaxed and casual atmosphere, with inventive cocktails, mouthwatering dishes, and savory desserts, which set it apart from other restaurants in Norfolk.

However, homemade varieties like freshly baked Cheese, chicken cordon bleu, steak tartare, Hungarian gypsy pork cutlet, Escargot, and Serbian Goulash are part of its menu.

It likewise offers lunch or dinner on a daily basis; it also offers super drinks from cocktails, brook coffee to hot chocolate, sodas to alcoholic beverages.

This place can be a bit crowded during the weekend, but the quality level makes it worth the wait.

Trust me, Monastery Restaurant in Norfolk never disappoints. The chef always has unique specials for you to try.

Plan a visit to Monastery Restaurant from Tuesdays – Sundays, 5 – 10 pm.

Address: 443 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

5. Saltine

Undoubtedly, Saltine is one of the best restaurants in Norfolk, serving the best coastal Seafood.

It’s a locally owned and operated, fast-casual seafood Restaurant that offers a chic, airy space for diners to savor seasonal shellfish, seafood, and spirits.

Hence, the restaurant’s black distressed millwork, old-world detailing, and mosaic tile floors blend historical authenticity with a modern elegance that flows from the dining space to the bar.

The menu includes She crab soup, shrimp & Grits, Caesar salad, Oyster Rockefeller, and more.

These food are seasoned to perfection with the right texture. Not only are the prices just reasonable, but the portion of food is also good.

Whether you want to dine indoors or outdoors, the restaurant has seating inside and on the patio.

Saltine’s staff is friendly with quick service, giving every guest a calm dining experience.

Address: 100 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

6. Chorizo Mexican Eatery

An excellent place for the best Mexican cuisine and drinks. Or maybe you are just in the mood for Tacos; Chorizo Mexican Eatery is excellent.

Whether you want to dine indoors or outdoors, the restaurant has seating inside and on the patio.

One of the best restaurants in Norfolk to enjoy well-prepared torta. It is expensive, but this is the right spot to appreciate a good specialty meal.

The starters are so good that the ingredients used in making them will make you want them.

Chorizo Mexican Eatery offers a wide selection of signature margaritas and other cocktails.

One thing about the restaurant is the staff. Everyone who works here loves their job. Hence, they can all recommend the perfect pairing for your orders, and they also choose the most delightful party trays for you.

Address: 4820 Hampton Blvd Suite A, Norfolk, VA 23508, United States

7. Green Onion

If you are looking for eye-catching and lip-smacking French food, you should not miss Green Onion.

From its beautiful landscape and rustic design to its clean dining area Green Onion is one of the best restaurants in Norfolk.

It’s a perfect spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner, with an elegant atmosphere for a memorable dining experience.

Speaking of its menu, Green Onion offers french toast, steak and eggs, truffle fries, shrimp and grits, fried calamari, she-crab soup, and the famous all-you-can-eat mussels.

Also, Green Onion has a lovely outdoor patio for guests who want to dine al fresco.

This restaurant truly transforms locally sourced ingredients into magical bites.

You’ll love the setup of this restaurant from start to finish.

Address: 1603 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA 23517, United States

8. Sunset Grill

The list is definitely not complete without mentioning Sunset Grill Restaurant.

With its unique menu, live music, and romantic atmosphere, this award-winning restaurant in Norfolk is the choice of locals.

The service is top-notch, and the food is absolutely amazing; every single drink and bite is perfect, fresh, bursting with flavor, and prepared to perfection.

Speaking of its menu, it offers fresh seafood, fried clam platter, Tacos, fried shrimp, Tuna steak, fish and chips, and more.

Also, the wait staff is perfectly tentative, super friendly, and helpful.

You can get the best of beers, cocktails, and curated wines at the bar.

I highly recommend a stop here; you will never be disappointed whenever you visit this restaurant.

What’s more, this restaurant has outdoor seating on the patio, with a picturesque view of the marina.

Visit Sunset Grill Sunday – Thursday from 11 am to 10 pm; Friday and Saturday, 11 am – 11 pm.

Address: 4027 Bowdens Ferry Rd, Norfolk, VA 23508, United States

9. Bonchon Norfolk

Honestly, if it’s for fresh Asian delicacies, Korean fried chicken, and other traditional eats, then you should find your way to  Bonchon Restaurant in Norfolk.

However, there are many authentic restaurants in Norfolk to enjoy a delicious meal with your family. But trust me, when it comes to Asian fusion dishes, they are no match for this spot.

Aside from the food, the ambiance boasts modern decor and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs prepare the delicacies.

Speaking of its menu, the house fried Rice is a fantastic dish you should sample and also includes Tacoyaki, chicken wings, kimchi, pork buns, chicken Tacos, and more.

For appetizers, you should try out seasoned fries or shrimp Rolls; the soups are perfectly cooked.

In addition, this spot has limited options for vegetarians, but the portion size and flavors are impressive.

Also, this trendy diner features colorful, contemporary, and fun counter service; entertaining is not lacking in this restaurant, as there are plenty of TVs to enjoy your favorite sports.

When you crave the freshest Asian meals, make a stop here.

Address: 273 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

10. Grain Restaurant

Do you want to wake up to those taste buds? Then make a stop at  Grain restaurant in Norfolk.

It goes without question that the restaurant offers an unmatched dining experience.

The Grain restaurant serves classic American cuisine with a pub in an elegant atmosphere.

This rooftop restaurant is located on the roof of the  Hilton Norfolk The Main with a gorgeous indoor space with those huge windows that let you have fantastic views of downtown Norfolk as well as the Elizabeth River.

Also, the outdoor patio is superb, with a picturesque view as you dine alfresco.

Whether it’s weekend brunch, lunch, or dinner, Grain is up to the task of making your stop worthwhile with the best meal and a large selection of beers and other drinks.

When you crave the freshest and highest-quality American food, from chicken & waffles to filet mignon to Roasted chicken salad, Grain should be your next stop in Norfolk.

However, their menu is not limited to fried food; there are tons of options, including Bacon Charcuterie, fish and chips, smack Burger, and more.

In addition, Grain offers approximately 100 draft beers, curated wines, and cocktails.

Address: 100 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

11. LeGrand Kitchen

Whether it’s lunchtime deal-making, a romantic date with loved ones, or an opportunity for evening dinner with friends,  LeGrand Kitchen offers the perfect dining experience.

LeGrand Kitchen is among the best restaurants in Norfolk that feature New American fare.

This restaurant is a perfect place to dine, with indoor and outdoor seating.

Aside from that, the ambiance at  LeGrand Kitchen is rustic and outstanding. Also, the kitchen is open and prepares all meals with locally sourced ingredients.

However, this restaurant grills its food on open grills. The locals love the grilled chicken, steak sandwich, key lime pie, Burger, Shrimp & Grits, and fish chop.

Also, the salad and soups are great options, and the Banana pudding is great for dessert.

In addition, LeGrand Kitchen offers signature cocktails, craft beers, and a selection of wines. As you enjoy your dining experience, there’s live music that brightens the mood of every visitor.

Visit LeGrand Kitchen Tuesday through Saturday from 5 – 9 pm.

Address: 4515 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA 23508, United States

12. Hell’s Kitchen

Quality service, menu, and atmosphere; Hell’s Kitchen has it all! The friendly, enthusiastic staff make you feel just like a friend.

When you crave the freshest and highest-quality American cuisine, seafood, and steak, then Hell’s Kitchen in Norfolk should be your next stop.

However, the decor is classy, with fine American cuisine in a casual dining atmosphere.

Hands down, the best restaurants in Norfolk, where you can eat in their extremely clean dining rooms.

Speaking of its menu, seafood is the way to go.

You can order she-crab soup, seafood Nachos, filet mignon,  wings & sauces, steak Nachos, and Tuna bites.

Also, crispy calamari, chicken wings, and chicken quesadillas are top-notch.

The Pan seared scallops and sesame tuna are delicious. You can’t go wrong with their exceptional menu.

Furthermore, Hell’s Kitchen offers beers, craft cocktails, and curated wines that complement the menu so well.

Address: 124 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

13. A World of Good

If you are looking for mouth-watering food, you should not miss A World of Good.

Meanwhile, A World of Good restaurant has provided patrons with the freshest Grilled food and the finest wine list with an international street vibe for over three decades.

The ambiance at A World of Good is rustic, with complete decor indoor dining area.

It’s a perfect spot for Lunch and dinner with quick service and fantastic staff.

Speaking of its menu, A World of Good has an extensive menu that satisfies visitors’ cravings.

From Shrimp and grits to chop cheese sandwiches to felafel to fried Rice, fish Tacos, Asian salads, Hot dog, and others, they are definitely the best in any restaurant in Norfolk.

Furthermore, the restaurant has a wide selection of wine, beers, handcrafted cocktails, and signature desserts.

Overall, this restaurant gives its guests a taste of the exceptional.

Address: 905 E Ocean View Ave, Norfolk, VA 23503, United States

14. Voila!

This restaurant is one of the most popular in Norfolk, serving the best French and Greek dishes.

Voila boasts its beautiful landscape tucked away in one of the city’s oldest historic neighborhoods, with eclectic decor and soft lighting.

The Food at Voila is exceptional, with quick service and friendly staff.

Also, the kitchen is open and serves high-class international cuisines, which use fresh local ingredients that are prepared well to satisfy your cravings.

The menu also has different options for guests to enjoy and visit again.

From its lamb chops and scallops to fish Tacos to fried Pickles, French onion soup, Risotto, and Cotelette D’ Agneau.

Also, its sandwiches, burgers, and flatbread appetizers are exceptional.

The inside space is warm and inviting, and the outside patio is spectacular.

What’s more, this restaurant is vegetarian friendly, and it also serves craft brews, cocktails, and Alcohol in its full bar with Tv screens for sports lovers to enjoy their favorite games.

Visit Voila Tuesday through Saturday from 5 – 9 pm.

Address: 509 Botetourt St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

15. 219 Bistro

219 Bistro lets you feel like you are in your hometown restaurant with its special New American cuisine, insane air conditioning, drink specials, and super amazing environment.

No doubt, this is one of the best Bistro restaurants in Norfolk.

The staff is always on point to ensure you have everything you want and satisfy you fully.

Fantastic place to grab a delicious lunch and dinner with its extensive menu. The choices seem endless, and the food is fresh and delicious.

Hence, you will find fish Tacos, Escargot, crazy Bisque, Gnocchi, crab cake, and more.

It also offers a wide selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, and burgers.

Also offer healthy choices and delectable desserts, curated wines, and cocktails.

However, all the meals are homemade, and the staff is amiable, efficient, and attentive.

219 Bistro almost makes you feel like you’re eating outside with those huge windows that let you watch the world go by.

Address: 219 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

16. Stripers Waterside

No doubt, Stripers Waterside is one of the best restaurants in Norfolk.

Located in Waterside District on the banks of the Elizabeth River, Stripers Waterside Serves exquisite, fresh Seafood, pasta, steak, sandwiches, and a selection of pub-style appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

At Stripers Waterside, you can be sure to enjoy the dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seating space,  with Spectacular views of the Elizabeth River.

As for the menu, there are lots of options, from the steak skillet to  Shrimp and grits to salad; Bacon wrapped shrimp, fish Tacos, calamari, slaw, and more.

Hence, it has great entries like the lobster scrambler, fantastic lobster roll, and crabcakes.

Also, the bar is fantastic, with an extensive wine list and craft beer to complement your meal.

To add to this, Stripers Waterside sources its ingredients from homegrown farmers, so everything here is natural and healthy for you and your loved ones.

You can visit Stripers Waterside from 11:30 am to 8 pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

Address: 333 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

17. Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint

You need to make a stop at Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint in downtown Norfolk.

It goes without question that the restaurant offers an unmatched dining experience.

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint was opened in 2008, Located in The Virginia Building Apartments.

This restaurant, with state-of-the-art decor, bar & lounge, boasts a  gorgeous indoor space and outdoor seating.

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint should be your next stop while in Norfolk when you crave the freshest and highest-quality American Burgers and fries.

However, there are tons of options, including Mac & Cheese, Deep fried Oreos, Greg Brady Burger, Sandwiches, and more.

The grilled calamari, grilled chicken skewers, and bacon-wrapped dates are delicious and exceptional.

In addition, Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint offers a wide selection of curated wines, craft beers, and cocktails.

Overall, this Norfolk restaurant is an excellent place for a fancy dinner or lunch.

Address: 131 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

18. Luce Restaurant

This is one of the top Italian restaurants in downtown Norfolk whether you are out with family and friends for lunch or dinner in town.

Luce has been considered one of Norfolk’s Best Italian restaurants for many years.

You will love the rustic design and inviting ambiance at Luce. Also, the kitchen is open and serves high-class Italian classics that use fresh, local ingredients prepared well to satisfy your cravings.

Speaking of its menu, it’s your basic lunch and dinner selection of Mushroom toast, fresh pasta, Salads, Avocados Brushetta, Hunter sausage, and so on.

I recommend Sauteed Calamari, but every meal here is great.

Furthermore, this restaurant offers a wide selection of curated wine, craft beer, and cocktails.

Also, the wait staff are professional and super-friendly

Plan a visit to Luce  Monday – Thursday, 4:45 pm – 12 am; Friday and  Saturday, 4:45 pm – 1 am.

Address: 245 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

19. The Grilled Cheese Bistro

This list is definitely not complete without mentioning The Grilled Cheese Bistro.

The Grilled Cheese Bistro will surely please all who take in the venue with an extensive menu, a great selection of beers, domestic and fast casual, and a counter-service style.

However, their prices are reasonable; the services from the beautiful-looking staff are exceptional.

The wide open seating plan mainly concerns the bar area, so you are constantly bombarded by those watching the games on the 10+ flat-screen TVs filling the bar area.

Also, they have outdoor seating. And the restrooms are very clean and well kept.

Hence, their menu has a lot of variety, including grilled cheese sandwiches, french fries, Buffalo chicken, lobster Mac & cheese, fried pickles, Arnold Palmer, Caprese sandwiches,  and more.

They also have some tasty cocktails and a good variety of wines in addition to the several beer options on tap.

Bottom line, The Grilled Cheese Bistro has achieved tremendous success over the years, making it one of the best restaurants in Norfolk as well as in the States.

Address: 345 Granby St, Suite A, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

20. The Ten Top

This restaurant is among the best American restaurants in Norfolk, serving fresh salad and sandwiches, and it’s not relaxing in serving its customers the best delicacies.

The food at The Ten Top is exceptional, with quick service and friendly staff.

Also, the menu is outstanding, and there’s something for everyone, including vegetarians.

Every set had beautiful decor with a comfortable atmosphere.

The pasta salad, Bacon Date, chicken wrap, pimento cheese sandwich, Roasted salmon, and entrees are a die-for, and the tuna melt Grilled Dumplings are highly recommended.

All the food at The Ten Top is seasoned to perfection and has just the right texture. Not to mention that the prices are just reasonable and the portions are good.

Make a visit to The Ten Top Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm.

Address: 748 Shirley Ave, Norfolk, VA 23517, United States

21. Grace O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Restaurant

If you are craving authentic, hand-crafted Irish food, Grace O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Restaurant is the place to be.

No doubt, this award-winning Irish pub is one of the best restaurants in Norfolk.

The ambiance at Grace O’Malley’s is rustic with simplicity and modern touch.

However, the menu has a ton of options, including Dublin poutine, fish & chips, scotch eggs, shepherd’s pie, and sausage Rolls, so everyone can always find something they would enjoy.

Irish Bacon & cabbage is crunchy and hit so well.

Speaking of their ingredients, they are always fresh, and the food presentation is top-notch and not to be compared to.

You can never be disappointed when visiting Grace O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Restaurant.

Visit Grace O’Malley’s Sundays – Thursdays, 11 am – 12 am; Fridays and Saturdays, 11 am – 2 am.

Address: 211 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

22. Granby Street Pizza

You need to know why the locals choose Granby Street Pizza as their favorite pizza restaurant in Norfolk.

Absolutely the best pizza in Norfolk that uses the best ingredients, which are freshly made.

The ambiance of Granby Street Pizza Restaurant is like no other restaurant in Norfolk; located in a great place that is easily accessible and simply decorated with pieces from local artists.

Meanwhile, you are going to enjoy Granby Street Pizza sauces that are made from scratch, Pizza, meatballs, salads, and more. You can even build your own pizza.

When you order pasta, it comes out with pasta on a plate and a gravy boat of sauce, so you can pour your own.

Don’t miss an opportunity to have great pizza any time you are in Norfolk.

Address: 235 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

23. Leone’s Italian

If you want an upscale atmosphere with a laid-back vibe and some of the best Italian restaurants in Norfolk, look no further than Leone’s Italian. Simply outstanding and so tasty.

First, the ambiance is excellent, dimly lit with colored lighting but with elegant and comfy furniture.

Their extensive menu includes chicken parmigiana, Tiramisu, Bruschetta, Antipasto misto, calamari fritti, and Pizza.

The restaurant has a lovely outdoor patio for guests who want to dine alfresco.

Also, the service is excellent. They always make you feel welcome and essential from your first interaction to your last. An unneeded and unexpected gesture that just explains their excellence.

The Caesar salad and chicken marsala taste perfect; they actually spice well and use the right ingredients to bring richness and flavor.

I highly recommend this place; you will be glad you stop by.

Plan a visit to Leone’s Italian Monday- Thursday from 4 – 9 pm, Friday & Saturday from 4 – 10 pm, and Sunday from 4 – 8:30 pm.

Address: 455 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States

Final Remarks

While Norfolk, Virginia, has many restaurants, you can find exactly what you are looking for with this list.

Whether you want Mexican dishes, pizza, Sushi, Pho, chicken wings, or Italian dishes and of course seafood.

These dining cuisines will give you a memorable experience with your family and loved ones.

Boun Appetito!