Virginia Beach is home to a wealth of delectable seafood and coastal cuisine, with iconic dishes ranging from the salty Lynnhaven Oyster to classic She-Crab Soup. For centuries this region has enticed eaters with fresh, creatively prepared local gourmet delights. Marveling visitors from far and wide, every neighborhood boasts its spring and summer bounty as chefs put their unique spin on Virginia Beach's too-good-to-something-be-missed regional delicacies.
Virginia Beach is renowned for its iconic coastal cuisine, which showcases the region's abundance of fresh, seasonal, and simply prepared ingredients. From salty brackish waters teeming with an array of sea life to sandy soil ideal for growing edible treasures, to beach cocktails flowing like the mighty Lynnhaven River, Virginia Beach has something to offer everyone. Whether it's exploring the diversity of the culinary scene, or just playing the hits, there are a variety of iconic dishes that every visitor must try.
Tasting the Legendary Lynnhaven Oyster
The Lynnhaven Oyster has been a local legend for centuries, with its impressive size and salinity even having the attention of English aristocracy. Captain John Smith famously described the oysters in the area as being abundant enough to cover the ground like stones. Though their numbers have dwindled since then, the local oyster population is on the rise and thriving once again. Those looking to sample these delightful bivalves can join a boat tour with Pleasure House Oysters, or find them at well-loved restaurants such as Atlantic on Pacific, Tautog's Restaurant, and Catch 31. This delicacy has earned its legendary status!
Margie & Ray's Seafood, Crab & Raw Bar: A Local Favorite
Virginia Beach is renowned for its delicious coastal cuisine, and She-Crab Soup is a classic dish that stands out. Every year, visitors and locals alike flock to the Annual She-Crab Soup Festival to celebrate this beloved dish. Furthermore, many restaurants in the area proudly feature She-Crab Soup on their menu as an homage to local tradition. One such restaurant is Margie & Ray’s Seafood, Crab & Raw Bar in Sandbridge, which has been serving up its signature soup since 1964. Not only is it a favorite among locals, but it was voted the best She-Crab Soup in Tidewater multiple times.
The Birthplace of Orange Crushes
Virginia Beach is renowned for its delicious Orange Crushes, a concoction of freshly squeezed orange juice, triple sec, and Sprite. This perfect summer drink originated at Waterman's Surfside Grille and can now be found on menus all across the city. From Chix Seaside Grille and Bar to The Shack on the 8th, it's hard to resist the refreshingly fruity and inviting taste of Orange Crushes - an ideal way to cool off during the hot summer months!
Enjoying Soft Shell Crabs
Delicious soft-shell crabs are a popular culinary staple in the Chesapeake Bay. Starting in mid-April or early May and lasting until September, these blue crabs molt their hard shells after the first full moon of May, giving locals five months to savor this delightful treat. Whether lightly fried or topping a spicy bloody Mary like at Bay Local Eatery, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy this local delicacy.
A Unique Rural Setting
Visitors to Pungo can experience a unique rural setting that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Oceanfront. With 8,000 acres of farmland, visitors can explore the windswept dunes and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the area. Locals and travelers alike can take part in the Pungo experience by picking fresh and local favorites, such as strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries, from one of the many roadside stands.
Virginia Beach is a coastal city full of vibrant culture and historic cuisine enjoyed by both tourists and locals alike. From such favorites as the iconic Lynnhaven oyster to the favorite classic She-Crab Soup, there are plenty of flavorful dishes to be found. With its many local restaurants that skillfully showcase immense ocean flavors, it's easy to see why Virginia Beach keeps drawing in hungry foodies and travelers year after year. Enjoying its tantalizing seafood creations and down-home flavor is a delicious way to experience the romantic charms of this East Coast town.
[button link="https://www.visitvirginiabeach.com/blog/post/iconic-virginia-beach-flavors-you-have-to-try/" newwindow="yes"]Discover Virginia Beach's Iconic Cuisine[/button]
