Virginia Beach is a world-famous tourist destination, known for its sprawling oceanfront, lively boardwalk, and a dining scene that often caters to the summer crowds.
While the restaurants lining Atlantic Avenue are plentiful, the city’s most authentic and exciting culinary experiences are often found away from the tourist-heavy areas, tucked into neighborhood strip malls and local-centric districts.
To truly eat like a local in Virginia Beach, you need to explore the inland neighborhoods and hidden gems that residents cherish.
From authentic ethnic eateries to legendary seafood dives, these spots offer a taste of the real VB. Here are five underrated restaurants that prove there’s more to the city’s food scene than the oceanfront.
1. The Bee & the Biscuit
Located in a charming, restored 1919 cottage in the rural Pungo area, The Bee & the Biscuit is a brunch destination worth the drive.
This spot is a local obsession, and for good reason. The menu is a celebration of Southern comfort, with everything made from scratch.
The main event is the massive, fluffy buttermilk biscuits, which serve as the base for creative benedicts or come stuffed with fried chicken.
The atmosphere is rustic yet elegant, making it a perfect escape from the bustle of the city. Be prepared for a wait, but know that it’s an integral part of this beloved local experience.
2. Le Yaca
For a taste of classic, elegant French country cooking, locals in the know head to Le Yaca. While it has a sister location in Williamsburg, the Virginia Beach restaurant offers a refined yet surprisingly unstuffy dining experience.
The star of the menu for decades has been the Marquise au Chocolat, a legendary dessert, but the savory dishes are equally masterful.
The fixed-price menu is an incredible value, featuring classics like French onion soup and perfectly executed entrees like pan-seared scallops or filet mignon. It’s a touch of old-world class hidden in a modern shopping center.
3. Repeal Bourbons and Burgers
Tucked away in a small space off the beaten path, Repeal is a haven for lovers of gourmet burgers and fine whiskey. This Prohibition-themed speakeasy offers a dark, intimate atmosphere and a simple but brilliantly executed menu.
The burgers are the main draw, made with a custom blend of beef and served on brioche buns with inventive toppings.
Paired with hand-cut fries and one of the dozens of bourbons from their extensive list, it’s a simple meal elevated to an art form. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a serious conversation over even more serious food and drink.
4. Mizuno’s Japanese Restaurant
Long before sushi became mainstream, Mizuno’s was serving authentic Japanese cuisine to a devoted local following.
This family-owned institution is known for its incredible freshness and traditional approach.
While the hibachi tables are a popular choice for groups, the real magic happens at the sushi bar, where the chefs craft beautiful and delicious nigiri and sashimi. It’s a calm, welcoming spot that prioritizes quality over trends, making it a reliable and beloved fixture in the local dining scene.
5. Gringo’s Taqueria
Located at the Oceanfront but with a decidedly local vibe, Gringo’s is the go-to for inventive, flavorful fish tacos.
This casual, vibrant spot serves up Baja-style tacos with a creative twist. The “UFO” taco, with your choice of protein smothered in queso and toppings on a crispy tortilla, is a cult favorite.
Their signature white sauce is legendary, and the fresh-squeezed margaritas provide the perfect complement. It’s a laid-back, surf-inspired joint that captures the authentic, fun-loving spirit of Virginia Beach.
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