Chesapeake Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Chesapeake. Your complete guide to dining in Chesapeake.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Chesapeake! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Chesapeake has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Chesapeake's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Chesapeake like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Chesapeake offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Chesapeake.
Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & Marina
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.5 stars from 4487 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 605 2nd St, Chesapeake City, MD 21915, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
La Oficina Steakhouse & Cantina- Chesapeake
Highly rated Steakhouse in Chesapeake with 4.9 stars from 386 reviews.
📍 805 Battlefield Blvd N #101, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
The Stockpot Chesapeake
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.6 stars from 106 reviews.
📍 1296 S Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Biscuit Belly - Chesapeake
Highly rated American in Chesapeake with 4.6 stars from 1157 reviews.
📍 605 Volvo Pkwy suite 100, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Honey and Hooch
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.6 stars from 200 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 500 S Battlefield Blvd #21, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Butcher's Son
Highly rated Steakhouse in Chesapeake with 4.4 stars from 2677 reviews.
📍 500 S Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
Urban Hot Pot
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.8 stars from 487 reviews.
📍 613 Volvo Pkwy #112, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Cutting Edge Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.7 stars from 372 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1434 Sam's Dr #102, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Shawarma Shack VA
Highly rated Mediterranean in Chesapeake with 4.9 stars from 866 reviews.
📍 Shawarma Shack Middle Eastern Street Food, 1437 Sam's Dr #108, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
Pirate's Cove Restaurant
Highly rated Seafood in Chesapeake with 4.3 stars from 2806 reviews.
📍 109 J/K, 109 Gainsborough Square, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Neat Bird Chicken & Whiskey
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.4 stars from 588 reviews.
📍 565 Belaire Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bobby’s Farmhouse Kitchen
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.8 stars from 43 reviews.
📍 1132 Battlefield Blvd N, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Chesapeake.
Harris Teeter
Highly rated Bakery in Chesapeake with 4.5 stars from 962 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 237 Hanbury Rd E, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Kroger Marketplace
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.4 stars from 1716 reviews.
📍 1653 Sentinel Dr, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Super Mart
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.5 stars from 24 reviews.
📍 2133 Chesapeake Dr, Chesapeake, VA 23324, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Beasley's Farm
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.5 stars from 211 reviews.
📍 4001 Indian River Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23325, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Tala Market Meat & Bakery
Highly rated Bakery in Chesapeake with 4.3 stars from 106 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 1406 Battlefield Blvd N, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Grand Mart
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.4 stars from 4556 reviews.
📍 649 Newtown Rd Ste 105, Virginia Beach, VA 23462, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Lion
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.4 stars from 362 reviews.
📍 717 S Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
E Mart
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.5 stars from 835 reviews.
📍 4876 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Chesapeake.
The Nature Bus
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 5 stars from 241 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Norfolk Tour Company
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.8 stars from 55 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Tour Roanoke & Roanoke Food Tours
Highly rated International in Chesapeake with 4.9 stars from 53 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Tinto Wine & Cheese Chesapeake
Highly rated Bar in Chesapeake with 4.6 stars from 72 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Chesapeake.
RoJo Coffee Co.
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.8 stars from 147 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 388 S Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Toastique
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.8 stars from 165 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 535 Belaire Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Pale Horse Coffee - Great Bridge
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.9 stars from 427 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1296 S Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Kawa Coffeehouse
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 5 stars from 46 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 136 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cafe on the Bay
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.8 stars from 273 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 19 Bohemia Ave, Chesapeake City, MD 21915, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Cutting Edge Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.7 stars from 372 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1434 Sam's Dr #102, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Gather Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.5 stars from 621 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2125 Starmount Pkwy #109, Chesapeake, VA 23321, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
KENSLEY'S Açaí & Café
Highly rated Cafe in Chesapeake with 4.9 stars from 167 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 620 Grassfield Pkwy unit 140, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Chesapeake.
Signature Dish
A must-try Chesapeake specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Chesapeake dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Chesapeake with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Chesapeake specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Chesapeake creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Chesapeake classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Chesapeake specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Chesapeake dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Chesapeake with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Chesapeake specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Chesapeake.
Honey and Hooch
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.6 stars from 200 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 500 S Battlefield Blvd #21, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Woody's Raw Bar & Grill
Highly rated Bar in Chesapeake with 4.3 stars from 1824 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 123 Battlefield Blvd N suite h, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Bad Habits
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.4 stars from 685 reviews.
📍 1464 Mt Pleasant Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23322, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Chesapeake Inn Restaurant & Marina
Highly rated Restaurant in Chesapeake with 4.5 stars from 4487 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 605 2nd St, Chesapeake City, MD 21915, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Lockside Bar and Grill
Highly rated American in Chesapeake with 4.1 stars from 1726 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 200 Battlefield Blvd N #13, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
RiffHouse Pub
Highly rated Bar in Chesapeake with 4.4 stars from 452 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2002 Bainbridge Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23324, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Chesapeake's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Chesapeake vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chesapeake is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Chesapeake offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Chesapeake specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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