Suffolk, Virginia, is a city where the flavors of the Tidewater region meet a spirit of Southern hospitality and culinary innovation.
Its food scene is a vibrant reflection of the region’s coastal bounty, creative chefs, and a community that loves to gather around a good meal.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these five beloved restaurants offer a journey through the flavors and stories that make Suffolk a true culinary destination.
Harper’s Table
Established in 2012, Harper’s Table has become a cornerstone of Suffolk’s dining landscape.
Chef-owner Harper Bradshaw, who honed his skills at the renowned James Beard House, brings a refined touch to Southern cuisine.
The restaurant’s interior pays homage to Suffolk’s heritage, featuring pinewood trim reclaimed from the historic Suffolk Peanut Company warehouse.
Signature dishes include pork belly biscuits, Chesapeake Bay flounder with stone-ground grits, and sweet onion hushpuppies.
Each plate reflects a commitment to local sourcing and culinary craftsmanship.
The ambiance is both rustic and sophisticated, creating an inviting space for diners seeking an elevated Southern dining experience.
Locals consistently praise Harper’s Table for its exceptional service, innovative menu, and the way it blends tradition with creativity.
The Plaid Turnip
Quirky and charming, The Plaid Turnip offers a delightful fusion of New American cuisine and Tidewater comfort food.
Owner Ed Beardsley envisioned a space where eclectic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere converge.
The restaurant’s interior features exposed brick, mismatched colors, and chalkboard menus, creating a cozy and inviting environment.
The menu boasts an array of dishes that cater to diverse tastes: giant cinnamon rolls, crab Benedict, fresh omelets, fried green tomato BLTs, towering cheeseburgers, and seasonal soups.
The Plaid Turnip’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures a memorable dining experience. Locals appreciate the restaurant’s unique character, consistently delicious fare, and the sense of community it fosters.
Baron’s Pub
A true community anchor, Baron’s Pub offers a blend of pub-grub staples and local seafood favorites.
The rustic and cozy atmosphere makes it a popular spot for watching the game, enjoying live music, or simply relaxing with friends and family.
Signature dishes include smoky half-rack ribs, smoked chicken sandwiches, and the unique peanut-crusted pork chop—a true Suffolk original.
The menu also features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and daily specials. Locals highlight the welcoming environment, consistently good food, and the friendly setting that makes Baron’s Pub a beloved spot among Suffolk residents.
Sushi Aka
For those seeking a departure from traditional Southern fare, Sushi Aka offers a refreshing alternative.
Chef-owner Michael Hart, who trained under Iron Chef Morimoto, brings a wealth of experience and creativity to this casual Asian restaurant.
After honing his skills in Philadelphia, Hart returned to Suffolk to reopen Sushi Aka near its original location in 2017.
The menu features a variety of sushi rolls crafted with local flounder and blue crab, as well as classics like spicy tuna, plump nigiri, seaweed salad, and tempura soft-shell crab.
For those less inclined toward seafood, the menu also includes yakitori, ramen, and teriyaki plates.
The bright and polished ambiance, combined with the innovative menu, has garnered positive reviews from locals, who praise the freshness and flavors.
Decoy’s Seafood
Set on the edge of marshland with wraparound porches and river breezes, Decoy’s Seafood offers a true Tidewater seafood experience.
The restaurant’s stunning views of Bennett’s Creek, combined with its delightful seafood offerings, make it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
The menu features fresh fish, crabs, and shrimp, along with steaks, sandwiches, soups, and baskets.
Specialty drinks and craft brew selections complement the expanded menu.
Live music weekly by the area’s best artists and old friends of Bennett’s Creek Marina entertain guests at both the Blind Duck Tiki Bar and the main bar at Decoy’s.
Locals praise the restaurant’s ambiance, seafood offerings, and the combination of quality cuisine and a picturesque setting.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!