Your Guide to Outdoor Dining in Downtown Norfolk 

As the weather warms up, Downtown Norfolk offers everything from breezy rooftop bars to cozy sidewalk patios. Whether you're looking for a romantic waterfront dinner or a casual spot to people-watch, here is your guide to dining under the Norfolk sky. 

 

Elevated Views: Rooftops and Riverfronts 

If you want a side of scenery with your meal, head to the water or look up. These spots offer the best vantage points in the city: 

• Grain Rooftop Bar: Located in the Main. This is the ultimate spot for craft beer, fire pits, and sweeping views of the Elizabeth River. 

• Leone’s Rooftop Dining: Enjoy sophisticated Italian fare with an elevated perspective of the bustling streets below. 

• Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise: For the ultimate "outdoor" experience, take your dinner to the water and enjoy a buffet with a constantly changing skyline view. 

• Waterside District Outdoor Dining: The heart of the waterfront, offering a variety of venues where you can grab a drink and a bite while watching the boats go by. 

Sidewalk Style and Garden Patios 

Experience the charm of Downtown by snagging a table right on the brick-lined streets. It's the perfect way to soak in the city’s energy: 

• Omar’s Carriage House Patio: A local favorite for its historic charm and intimate outdoor seating. 

• Grace O’Malley’s Irish Pub & Restaurant: Bring a bit of the Irish spirit outdoors with their traditional pub fare and sidewalk seating. 

• Four Eleven York: Known for its stunning courtyard, this is the go-to for a refined, garden-style dining experience. 

• Zinnia: A fresh spot to enjoy vibrant dishes in a beautifully curated outdoor setting. 

• Todd Jurich's Bistro: Upscale bistro featuring coastal flavors with outdoor seating. 

• Freemason Abbey:Historic church serving American classics. 

• Luce: Trendy Italian with outdoor seating. 

Casual Bites and Local Favorites 

Sometimes you just want a great meal in the fresh air without the fuss. These Downtown staples offer excellent outdoor setups for a laid-back afternoon: 

• The Grilled Cheese Bistro: Take your gourmet melts outside for a classic Downtown lunch experience. 

• Laima’s Crepes: Perfect for a light, breezy brunch on the sidewalk. 

• Hair of the Dog: The place to be for outdoor brunching and creative comfort food. 

• Jack Brown's: Craft beer, burgers, outdoor seating. 

• Baxter's: Sports lounge with outdoor patio. 

 

Why It Matters 

When we dine outside, we fill the streets with conversation, laughter, and community. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy the coastal breeze, and appreciate the vibrant culinary scene that makes our downtown unique.