14 Waterfront Virginia Eateries Serving Delicious Food With Stunning Views
Last summer, I drove two hours just to eat crab cakes by the water, and honestly, it was worth every mile.
Virginia’s coastline and rivers offer some of the most beautiful dining spots you’ll ever find.
Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or just want to watch the sunset while you eat, these waterfront restaurants deliver both amazing food and views that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.
1. Rudee’s on the Inlet, Virginia Beach
Right where Rudee Inlet meets the ocean, this spot has been feeding hungry beachgoers since forever.
Fresh catches come straight from local fishing boats, so you know your meal was probably swimming that morning.
Grab a table on the deck and watch dolphins play while you devour shrimp by the pound. The sunset views are unreal, especially when paired with their famous she-crab soup.
Pro tip: arrive early on weekends because everyone and their cousin wants a waterside seat here.
2. Rockafeller’s Restaurant, Virginia Beach
Fancy pants alert! Rockafeller’s brings serious elegance to the Virginia Beach dining scene without being stuffy about it. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the marina like a living painting that changes with every hour.
Their oysters Rockefeller (see what they did there?) are legendary for good reason. Date night? Special occasion?
Just feeling bougie? This place has you covered with white tablecloths and water views that make everything taste better. The raw bar alone is worth the visit.
3. Chick’s Oyster Bar, Virginia Beach
Don’t let the casual vibe fool you because Chick’s serves some seriously good seafood. Located right on the water, this no-frills joint focuses on what matters: fresh oysters, cold beer, and amazing views.
Locals pack this place year-round, which tells you everything you need to know.
Their steamed shrimp buckets are perfect for sharing, though you might not want to. Weekend afternoons here feel like a beach party with better food. Cash only, so hit the ATM first!
4. The Porch on Long Creek, Virginia Beach
Imagine your cool aunt’s beach house, but with a full kitchen and liquor license. That’s The Porch in a nutshell.
Perched above Long Creek, this spot serves Southern comfort food with a coastal twist that’ll make your taste buds sing.
Their brunch is absolutely legendary around these parts. Watch kayakers paddle by while you tackle buttermilk pancakes or shrimp and grits.
The creek views are peaceful and pretty, especially when the marsh grass glows golden at sunset. Reservations recommended because word got out.
5. The Back Deck, Virginia Beach
Hidden behind Great Neck Plaza, The Back Deck feels like a secret locals tried to keep but couldn’t. Boats cruise right past your table on the canal, creating the ultimate vacation vibe even if you’re just off work.
Their fish tacos have a cult following for good reason. Live music on weekends turns dinner into a full-on party.
Kids can watch boats while parents enjoy adult beverages and actually relax. It’s casual, fun, and exactly what waterfront dining should be without any pretense.
6. Dockside Seafood & Marina, Virginia Beach
Want to eat where actual fishermen eat? Dockside is your spot. Attached to a working marina, this place screams authenticity from every weathered plank.
The seafood here is so fresh it practically swims to your plate. Paper plates and plastic utensils keep things simple so they can focus on cooking.
Their crab cakes are massive and full of actual crab, not filler nonsense. Watching boats unload their catches while you eat adds a cool behind-the-scenes element. Casual doesn’t even begin to describe it.
7. The Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery, Cape Charles
Cape Charles knows oysters, and The Oyster Farm proves it with every shuck. Right on the Chesapeake Bay, this eatery celebrates local aquaculture with serious dedication and zero snobbishness.
Their oysters come from farms you can literally see from your table, which is pretty darn cool. Try the sampler to taste different varieties because yes, oysters have personalities.
The bay views stretch forever, especially gorgeous during golden hour. Small-town charm meets world-class seafood, and honestly, it’s magical. Bring your appetite and your camera.
8. The Deadrise, Fort Monroe (Hampton)
History buffs and foodies unite! The Deadrise sits inside Fort Monroe, where you can enjoy incredible water views alongside actual American history.
Named after traditional Chesapeake Bay fishing boats, this restaurant honors waterman traditions while serving modern coastal cuisine.
Their menu changes seasonally, featuring whatever’s freshest from local waters and farms. Watch massive ships cruise past on Hampton Roads while you tackle rockfish or oysters.
The fort’s historic buildings provide a unique backdrop you won’t find anywhere else. History has never tasted this good.
9. Water Street Grille, Yorktown
Yorktown’s historic waterfront gets even better with Water Street Grille anchoring the scene. Situated right on the York River, this spot combines colonial charm with contemporary cuisine that actually works.
Their crab bisque is rich enough to make you weep happy tears. Outdoor seating puts you right above the water where you can watch sailboats glide past.
After dinner, stroll the historic streets or catch a sunset over the river. It’s romantic, delicious, and historically significant all at once. George Washington would totally eat here if he could.
10. YROC Coastal Bar & Grill, Gloucester Point
Gloucester Point’s hidden gem sits right where the York River shows off its best angles.
YROC (York River Oyster Company, for the curious) brings coastal vibes and seriously good seafood to this peaceful corner of Virginia.
Their raw bar is stocked with local oysters that taste like the sea in the best way. Sunset views here are absolutely ridiculous, painting the river in oranges and pinks.
The vibe is relaxed but refined, perfect for both flip-flops and date nights. Live music on weekends makes everything even better.
11. Island Shrimp Co. (Rocketts Landing), Richmond
Who says you need the ocean for waterfront dining? Island Shrimp Co. proves the James River holds its own with style.
Located at trendy Rocketts Landing, this spot serves coastal favorites with a Richmond twist. Their shrimp comes prepared about seventeen different ways, all delicious.
River views include the Richmond skyline, creating an urban-meets-nature vibe that’s uniquely cool.
Kayakers and paddleboarders cruise past while you eat, adding entertainment to your meal. It’s proof that great waterfront dining exists inland too.
12. The Boathouse at Sunday Park, Midlothian
Swift Creek Reservoir never looked so good as it does from The Boathouse’s deck. This Midlothian gem combines upscale dining with laid-back lake vibes that somehow work perfectly together.
Their menu goes beyond typical seafood, offering steaks and creative dishes that please every palate. Boat up to the dock or drive in, either way works.
Sunset reflections on the lake create Instagram-worthy moments between every bite. It’s fancy enough for celebrations but casual enough for regular Tuesdays. Lake life never tasted this refined.
13. Ada’s on the River, Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront just got a serious upgrade with Ada’s. Perched on the Potomac River, this spot serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with views that stretch into Maryland and beyond.
Their menu celebrates fresh ingredients and bold flavors that transport you straight to the coast. Watch boats navigate the river while you sip wine and nibble on perfectly prepared seafood.
The setting is romantic without trying too hard, sophisticated yet welcoming. It’s proof that Alexandria’s dining scene rivals any coastal town. Reservations are basically mandatory here.
14. Mallards at the Wharf, Onancock
Eastern Shore charm reaches peak levels at Mallards. Tucked away in tiny Onancock, this waterfront restaurant serves big flavors with small-town hospitality that’ll warm your heart.
Their menu highlights local seafood and seasonal ingredients with creative flair. The harbor views are postcard-perfect, especially when working boats return with the day’s catch.
It’s the kind of place where servers remember your name and everyone feels like family.
Onancock might be off the beaten path, but Mallards makes the trip absolutely worth it. Bring your appetite and your sense of adventure.