Summer in Downtown Norfolk is a feast for the senses, and nowhere is that more true than in our incredible food scene. It’s the season of sipping cocktails with a skyline view, sharing a meal on a sun-dappled patio, and indulging in the fresh, vibrant flavors that only summer can offer. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just looking for a delicious way to spend an evening, this is your guide to savoring the best tastes of summer.

Rooftop Bars & Dining: A Higher State of Taste

Elevate your evening—literally. These rooftop destinations combine stunning views with fantastic food and drinks for an unforgettable summer experience.

• Grain Rooftop Bar: Perched atop The Main Hotel, Grain offers panoramic views of the Elizabeth River. It's the ultimate spot to watch the sunset with a craft beer from their extensive list or a specialty cocktail in hand. With a fun, sociable vibe and a menu of elevated bar bites, it’s a quintessential Norfolk summer hangout.
• Leone’s Rooftop Dining: Experience a slice of Italy with a view of Granby Street. The rooftop at Leone’s is a charming, sought-after spot for enjoying authentic Italian cuisine al fresco. It's an intimate and romantic setting perfect for savoring a bowl of fresh pasta and a glass of wine under the stars.

Premier Outdoor Dining Patios: Soak Up the Sun & Flavor

When the weather is beautiful, there's no reason to be indoors. These premier patios offer the perfect setting for a breezy lunch, happy hour, or dinner.

• Waterside District: This waterfront hub offers multiple patio options in one place. Grab a table at Blue Moon Taphouse for craft brews and great food right by the water, or enjoy the lively atmosphere at Rocky Mountain Grill. It's a vibrant destination for soaking up the harbor views.
• Saltine: Refined and stylish, Saltine’s patio puts you in the heart of The Main's street-level energy. It's the perfect place to indulge in a tower of impeccably fresh oysters, shellfish, and other seasonal seafood creations from one of Norfolk’s top-rated restaurants.
• Grace O’Malley’s Irish Pub & Restaurant: This sprawling patio on Granby Street is always buzzing. It’s a fantastic, casual spot to gather with friends for a hearty Irish meal, a pint of Guinness, and often, live local music.
• Grilled Cheese Bistro: Gourmet grilled cheese and a side of sunshine? Yes, please. The intimate patio at this local favorite is the ideal spot to enjoy one of their wildly creative sandwiches and a bowl of their signature tomato soup.
• Lamia’s Crepes: Transport yourself to a Parisian sidewalk cafe. This charming crepe shop offers a lovely outdoor seating area where you can watch the world go by while enjoying authentic sweet or savory crepes made right before your eyes.
• Todd Jurich’s Bistro: For an elegant al fresco experience, the patio at Todd Jurich’s Bistro is unparalleled. Synonymous with fine dining in Norfolk, it’s the place to savor an expertly crafted, upscale meal featuring the best seasonal and local ingredients.
• Hair of the Dog: This fun and funky spot boasts a fantastic, dog-friendly patio. It's a go-to for a relaxed brunch, a creative cocktail, or one of their famous Orange Crushes, making it a perfect casual summer destination.
• Tap it Local: With a spacious and lively patio, Tap it Local is a hub for craft beer lovers. Pair a local brew with their delicious pub fare and enjoy the bustling atmosphere right on Granby Street.
• Four Eleven York: Nestled in the historic Freemason district, the courtyard patio at Four Eleven York is a hidden gem. This tranquil, beautifully lit space offers a sophisticated, romantic setting for enjoying their inventive, modern American cuisine.
• Zinnia: Bright, airy, and beautiful, Zinnia's patio feels like a garden oasis. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy their farm-to-table, plant-forward menu for a light and refreshing summer lunch or dinner.
• Benny’s Pizza: Home of the "Virginia Slice," Benny's offers a simple but perfect patio experience: grab a gigantic, delicious slice of pizza and a drink and enjoy some of the best people-watching on Granby Street.
• Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint: Simple and to the point: great burgers, great beer. The lively patio at Jack Brown’s is the place to be for a no-fuss, incredibly satisfying meal in a fun, unpretentious atmosphere.

Cool Summer Treats & Sips: Beat the Heat

When you need to cool down, these sweet treats and refreshing sips are the answer.

• Ice Cream: Beat the heat with a scoop from Blyss or aLatte Cafe, both serving up nostalgic favorites and local charm. Or head to the serene waterfront setting of Pagoda Ice Cream, tucked beside the Oriental Garden, where you’ll find homemade multi-colored scoops, Italian ice, and peaceful garden views—perfect for a cool treat and a photo op.
• Sweet Cravings: Satisfy your sweet tooth with late-night cookies and chilled milk from Insomnia Cookies, or stop by S’mores Amore inside Selden Market for toasted marshmallow magic in every bite. It’s nostalgic, gooey, and totally summer.
• Iced Beverages & Bubble Tea: Cool off with a handcrafted iced latte from your favorite Downtown café, or swing by Potted for a refreshing bubble tea—bonus points if you sign up for their make-your-own class.
• Frozen Cocktails & Crushes: Craving something with a kick? Try a signature Crush at Hair of the Dog or grab a frozen cocktail at Waterside District while soaking in the waterfront views.

Seasonal Food & Events: The Taste of Right Now

Celebrate the peak of summer flavor with these special culinary events and experiences.

• Restaurant Week in Downtown Norfolk (July): Mark your calendars for the most delicious week of the summer! Dozens of downtown's best restaurants will offer special multi-course, fixed-price menus for lunch and dinner. It's the perfect opportunity to try a new place or revisit an old favorite.
• Syd’s Fish Pig Cooking Classes: For a truly unique and hyper-seasonal experience, book a spot at one of Chef Syd's legendary classes. Learn to cook with the absolute best of what the season has to offer in a fun, intimate, and unforgettable setting.
• VA Goods Tastings: Get a taste of the Commonwealth. Shops that specialize in Virginia-made products often host tastings where you can sample local wines, cheeses, peanuts, and other artisanal goods that showcase the incredible bounty of our state.