Nothing sharpens an appetite like the salty air rolling off the Atlantic. Virginia Beach turns the simple act of brunch into a sensory event: sunlight spilling over garden patios, laughter tumbling from cozy booths, and plates filled with color and comfort. As someone who spends embarrassing amounts of time chasing the next memorable meal, I’ve discovered this city serves up brunch with almost as much personality as its beaches.
Navigating the best brunch in Virginia Beach isn’t tough; it’s deliciously overwhelming. Whether I’m ducking into Becca’s lush gardens on a lazy Sunday or sharing an over-the-top biscuit at The Bee & The Biscuit, I always find something unexpected, and always halal. If you crave flaky pastries, seafood with a Southern wink, or eggs flipped to perfection, you’re in the right place. Read on for a line-up of the city’s standouts—a guide curated for serious flavor-seekers who want to skip the guesswork and dive right into the good stuff.
Where to find the best brunch in Virginia Beach, VA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Virginia Beach, VA:
- Becca Restaurant & Garden
- The Bee & The Biscuit
- Bay Local
- Doc Taylor’s Restaurant
- Swan Terrace Restaurant
- Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House
- Waterman’s Surfside Grille
- Citrus Breakfast and Lunch
- Sunnyside Cafe & Restaurant
- Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center
1. Becca Restaurant & Garden
Becca Restaurant & Garden feels like a secret garden at the heart of the oceanfront. Stepping into its airy dining room or leafy patio, you’re surrounded by a calm that’s rare right on Atlantic Avenue. I visited for brunch and found myself wishing every weekend could start with fresh garden views and food that matches the scenery.
The menu puts local produce and modern flair on the table. Think colorful fruit parfaits, perfectly seasoned vegetable frittatas, and flaky croissants that taste like someone in the kitchen is obsessed with butter. Their avocado toast, topped with tangy radishes and herbs, is as photogenic as it is satisfying.
Brunch here is designed to linger. If you want a spot that delivers sophistication without stuffiness, Becca makes every meal feel special and undeniably Virginia Beach.
2. The Bee & The Biscuit
Walking into The Bee & The Biscuit feels like visiting a friend’s cozy country home, complete with a flower-filled porch and the hum of happy diners. Once, after a long week, I found myself here and immediately noticed the scent of fresh-baked biscuits and rich coffee that fills the air.
The menu champions Southern comfort with a thoughtful, modern twist. Their giant buttermilk biscuits—tender enough to fall apart—are legendary. I loved the seasonal fruit parfait, layered with house-made granola, and the veggie omelet, packed with colorful local produce.
If you want a brunch that feels both special and familiar, The Bee & The Biscuit hits that sweet spot. It’s the kind of place where the wait is always worth it, and every bite is memories in the making.
3. Bay Local
Bay Local brings a bright, beachy vibe that’s pure Virginia Beach. Its Shore Drive spot is always lively, filled with diners swapping stories over hefty plates. I remember my first brunch here— I was instantly hooked by the retro décor and the scent of coffee that promised a good day ahead.
The star of their menu is the “Bay Benedict”, an elevated take featuring local produce and perfectly poached eggs on a toasted English muffin. Their breakfast potatoes—crispy and seasoned just right—make the perfect sidekick. For something lighter, the seasonal fruit bowl always tastes as if it was picked that morning.
Bay Local’s charm is its mix of classic comfort and creative twists. It’s a brunch experience where every detail feels fresh and thoughtfully done.
4. Doc Taylor’s Restaurant
Doc Taylor’s Restaurant is a charming slice of beach-town history, nestled in an old pink hotel just steps from the boardwalk. The moment I walked in, the walls lined with quirky memorabilia and vintage photos set a welcoming, relaxed tone.
The breakfast menu leans classic but never boring. The veggie omelet, packed with peppers, onions, and spinach, tastes even better paired with their buttery grits. Their pancakes are golden and fluffy—a local favorite for good reason. Every plate here feels hearty and honest, never fussy.
Doc Taylor’s excels at unfussy Southern hospitality. For a brunch with character and a side of local history, this spot never disappoints.
5. Swan Terrace Restaurant
+1 757-366-5777
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Swan Terrace Restaurant offers a touch of refined comfort inside The Founders Inn and Spa. From my first brunch surrounded by the lakeside view, I was struck by the sense of calm—elegant yet unpretentious, with sunlight streaming through tall windows.
The menu blends Southern tradition with creative local flair. Their breakfast buffet is a highlight, featuring fluffy scrambled eggs, grilled seasonal vegetables, and fruit that actually tastes fresh. The biscuit bar is always stocked, letting you choose your own adventure with toppings and jams.
It’s the thoughtful details and fresh ingredients that make every visit memorable. Swan Terrace feels like it was made for lingering over a long, satisfying brunch in good company.
6. Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House
Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House feels like a classic beach breakfast spot where nostalgia meets towering stacks of pancakes. On my last visit, families filled the colorful booths and the diner buzzed with the scent of fresh batter and maple syrup.
The pancakes here are iconic—golden, fluffy, and generously portioned. The pecan pancakes, with just the right crunch and sweetness, are a must-try. Their Belgian waffles come crisp, light, and ready to pair with strawberries or bananas for a fruit-filled start to the day.
Quick service, a cheerful vibe, and genuine dedication to breakfast favorites put Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House on every local brunch list. If you crave classic comfort, you’ll find it here in every bite.
7. Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Waterman’s Surfside Grille is where brunch feels like a mini beach vacation. I grabbed a seaside table one breezy Sunday, watching the waves while the kitchen sent out plates that showcased what coastal Virginia does best.
The brunch menu revolves around local seafood and vibrant flavors. The veggie omelet—loaded with sautéed peppers, tomatoes, and spinach—was both hearty and fresh. The potato hash, golden and crackling at the edges, is another favorite, perfect for soaking up the morning salt air.
What separates Waterman’s is the view paired with consistently well-prepared dishes. If you want brunch with a side of ocean breeze, this is the place to linger and let time slow down.
8. Citrus Breakfast and Lunch
Citrus Breakfast and Lunch knows how to wake up a morning with bright, inviting flavors and a splash of sunshine. The atmosphere is airy and cheerful, with the kind of energy that makes the day feel warmer even when Virginia Beach is feeling moody. I started my visit with their fresh-squeezed orange juice—it’s the kind of thing you want to sip slowly, just to make it last.
The Citrus Omelet is a standout, packed with bell peppers, spinach, and a blend of cheeses that never overpowers. Their pancakes are golden and feather-light, best enjoyed with seasonal fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup. If you’re after something lighter, their Greek Yogurt Parfait tastes indulgent while feeling wholesome.
Citrus brings creativity to classic brunch staples, proving healthy and hearty don’t have to be opposites.
9. Sunnyside Cafe & Restaurant
Sunnyside Cafe & Restaurant makes every morning feel relaxed and welcoming, the kind of place where the staff remembers your coffee order. My last visit started with the sun streaming in and ended with a stack of perfectly golden pancakes.
Their menu is a celebration of fresh, made-to-order classics. The three-egg omelets let you mix and match veggie fillings, and the fresh fruit bowls are always chilled and ripe. The buttermilk pancakes stand out for their fluffy texture and subtle sweetness.
Sunnyside takes brunch basics and gives them real care, never rushing a good meal. If you’re looking for a spot where comfort, freshness, and variety come together, this is it.
10. Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center
Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center feels like a true local favorite where brunch comes with a view of the water and the promise of fresh catches. Sitting by the dock, I watched boats unload while my brunch landed on the table nearly as fresh as the morning breeze.
The brunch menu centers on light seafood fare and crisp salads. The vegetable omelet, filled with spinach, tomatoes, and herbs, pairs perfectly with their signature home fries. The view adds an extra layer of flavor to every bite.
If you enjoy seafood and laid-back charm, Dockside delivers with a coastal vibe that’s hard to beat. It’s a standout for anyone who wants something light, fresh, and unmistakably Virginia Beach.
More Things to Try in Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is brunch served in Virginia Beach?
Most brunch spots in Virginia Beach start serving between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. and continue until early afternoon, usually 2:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. Some restaurants offer brunch only on weekends, while others run it daily.
Are there vegetarian and vegan brunch options in Virginia Beach?
Absolutely. Many places, including The Bee & The Biscuit, Bay Local, and Commune, offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan plates like veggie omelets, grain bowls, and fresh fruit parfaits.
Do I need a reservation for brunch?
Reservations are recommended, especially at popular spots or during weekends. Some neighborhood cafes and diners operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to check ahead.
Which brunch spots have an ocean view?
Prime spots for a seaside brunch include Waterman’s Surfside Grille, Catch 31, and Dockside Seafood & Fishing Center. These offer beautiful views to pair with your meal.
Are there gluten-free brunch options in Virginia Beach?
Yes, several restaurants like Citrus Breakfast and Lunch, Baker’s Crust, and The Bee & The Biscuit offer gluten-free meals and substitutions upon request.
Is outdoor seating available at Virginia Beach brunch restaurants?
Definitely. Patios and garden seating can be found at Becca Restaurant & Garden, The Bee & The Biscuit, Swan Terrace Restaurant, and Bay Local, especially during warmer months.