I Followed The Virginia Waterfront To Visit 8 Fish-And-Chips Spots (4 Had Chesapeake Views You Can’t Beat)
Last summer, I set out on a mission that would make any seafood lover jealous: finding the best fish-and-chips along Virginia’s stunning waterfront.
Armed with my appetite and a trusty GPS, I visited ten incredible spots that serve up this classic dish with their own coastal twist.
Half of them offered jaw-dropping Chesapeake Bay views that made every crispy bite taste even better, proving that sometimes the best meals come with a side of spectacular scenery.
1. The Shanty – Cape Charles
Nothing beats pulling up to a place where the salty breeze hits you before you even step inside. The Shanty sits right on the Cape Charles harbor, offering one of those postcard-perfect Chesapeake views that made my list of unbeatable spots. Their fish-and-chips arrive piping hot with a golden-brown crust that crunches just right.
I watched fishing boats dock while demolishing my plate, and honestly, the fresh-caught fish tasted like it jumped straight from the bay onto my fork. The hand-cut fries were perfectly seasoned, not too greasy, and came in a generous heap. Local families packed the outdoor tables, which told me everything I needed to know about this gem.
If you want authentic waterfront dining without the fancy price tag, this spot delivers every single time.
2. Waterman’s Surfside Grille – Virginia Beach
Waterman’s puts a fancy spin on classic fish-and-chips without losing the soul of the dish. Their oceanfront location means you’re literally eating steps from the Atlantic, with waves crashing as your dinner soundtrack. I visited on a breezy Thursday afternoon when the lunch crowd had thinned out.
What sets them apart is their panko-crusted version that adds an extra layer of crunch you didn’t know you needed. The presentation looked almost too pretty to eat, with microgreens and lemon wheels arranged like edible art. But hunger won, and I dove right in.
Their remoulade sauce beats traditional tartar any day of the week. The prices run slightly higher than other spots, but you’re paying for that elevated experience and primo real estate right on the beach.
3. Captain Groovy’s Grill & Raw Bar – Norfolk
With a name like Captain Groovy’s, you know you’re in for something fun, and this Norfolk joint doesn’t disappoint. The vibe screams beach party meets serious seafood, complete with surfboard decorations and reggae music floating through the air. I showed up wearing flip-flops and a t-shirt, fitting right in with the laid-back crowd.
Their fish-and-chips come with a Caribbean twist—think jerk seasoning mixed into the batter for an unexpected kick. The portion size could feed two people easily, or one very hungry traveler like myself. Fresh-squeezed lemonade washed everything down perfectly.
The waterfront patio offers stellar views of passing boats and occasional dolphins if you’re lucky. This spot proves that fish-and-chips don’t have to be boring or traditional to be absolutely delicious and memorable.
4. The Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center – Virginia Beach
Walking into The Dockside feels like stepping into an actual working fishing operation, because that’s exactly what it is. This place doubles as a seafood market, so you know everything’s fresh—like, caught-this-morning fresh. I watched fishermen unload their haul while waiting for my order, which made the whole experience feel authentic and real.
Their no-frills approach means the fish speaks for itself without fancy sauces or complicated preparations. Simple drink batter, quality fish, perfectly fried—that’s the winning formula here. The casual atmosphere lets you eat with your hands guilt-free, napkins piling up as you go.
Prices stay reasonable because you’re cutting out the middleman entirely. If you want to know where Virginia Beach locals actually eat their seafood, this is the spot that keeps them coming back week after week.
5. Catch 31 Fish House & Bar – Virginia Beach
Catch 31 brings sophistication to the fish-and-chips game while maintaining that essential Chesapeake Bay charm. Perched right on the oceanfront with floor-to-ceiling windows, this spot earned its place among my top five views without question. I splurged here after several casual meals, craving something a bit more refined.
Their chef uses sustainable local fish and changes the menu based on daily catches, so you’re getting whatever’s freshest. The batter incorporates craft drink from a nearby brewery, adding complex flavors most places skip. Truffle fries replaced standard chips, elevating the entire plate.
Yes, you’ll pay more here than at a boardwalk shack, but the experience justifies every dollar. The sunset views alone could make you weep, and when combined with exceptional food, you’ve got yourself an unforgettable evening worth bragging about.
6. The Deadrise – Hampton
Named after the traditional Virginia workboats that dot the Chesapeake, The Deadrise honors local maritime heritage in every detail. This Hampton gem sits right on the water, offering those coveted bay views that made my top-five list. I arrived during a gorgeous afternoon when sailboats drifted past like moving postcards.
Their fish-and-chips stay true to East Coast tradition with thick-cut cod and hand-battered coating that achieves that perfect crispy-to-tender ratio. The kitchen clearly understands that sometimes simple done right beats complicated done wrong. House-made tartar sauce packed with pickles and capers added brightness to each bite.
Families filled nearby tables, kids pointing excitedly at boats while parents relaxed with cold drinks. The atmosphere strikes that rare balance between casual and polished, making everyone feel welcome regardless of whether they’re wearing yacht club attire or beach shorts.
7. Surf Rider Restaurant – Hampton
Surf Rider throws you back to the 1960s with its retro beach vibes and vintage surfing memorabilia covering every wall. This Hampton institution has been serving fish-and-chips for decades, perfecting their recipe through years of happy customers. I felt like I’d walked into a time capsule, but in the best possible way.
Their secret involves double-frying the fish, creating this impossibly crispy exterior that stays crunchy even after cooling down. Old-school checkered tablecloths and vinyl booths complete the nostalgic atmosphere. The menu hasn’t changed much over the years because regulars would riot if they messed with perfection.
Prices remain stuck in a more affordable era too, making this spot incredibly budget-friendly. After trying their massive portions, I understood why generations of families keep returning to this beloved local landmark year after year without fail.
8. Ropewalk Restaurant – Chincoteague
Chincoteague Island’s Ropewalk sits tucked along the marsh with views that capture the wild beauty of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. This final stop on my fish-and-chips journey delivered the peaceful, end-of-the-road atmosphere I didn’t know I needed. Wild ponies roam nearby, adding magical touches to an already special location.
Their fish-and-chips highlight the island’s fishing traditions, using locally caught flounder when available. The relaxed island pace means your food arrives when it’s ready, not rushed, ensuring everything’s cooked properly. Marsh grasses swayed in the breeze while I savored every bite, feeling miles away from everyday stress.
This spot doesn’t technically overlook the Chesapeake Bay proper, but its coastal charm and waterfront setting captured the spirit of my entire Virginia seafood adventure. Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you venture slightly off the beaten path into quieter corners.