Introduction
Virginia Beach, a vibrant coastal city, beckons with its sandy shores, thrilling attractions, and, of course, its diverse culinary scene. From fresh seafood shacks to upscale waterfront dining, the options seem endless. However, for budget-conscious travelers or savvy locals, the prospect of dining out every day can feel daunting. Fear not! Savoring delicious meals in Virginia Beach doesn’t require emptying your wallet. This comprehensive guide unlocks the secrets to enjoying the local flavors without straining your finances. Prepare to discover a treasure trove of affordable options that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied, both in your stomach and in your bank account. Enjoy Virginia Beach’s culinary scene without emptying your wallet!
Where to Find Budget-Friendly Bites: Categories & Examples
Beyond the bustling tourist areas, a world of affordable culinary delights awaits. Venturing off the beaten path often leads to charming local establishments that offer incredible value for your money. Consider exploring neighborhoods slightly removed from the oceanfront for a more authentic and budget-friendly dining experience.
Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
These are the places the locals frequent, the restaurants that have earned a loyal following through consistent quality and reasonable prices. They may not be the most extravagant, but they offer an undeniable charm and a true taste of Virginia Beach.
The Shack on 8th
Tucked away on 8th Street, this unassuming spot is a haven for taco lovers. Their fish tacos are legendary, bursting with fresh, flaky fish, crisp cabbage, and a tangy sauce that will have you craving more. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a perfect lunch stop or a casual dinner option. Their friendly service adds to the overall charm. For the best cheap food in Virginia Beach, give The Shack on 8th a try!
Taste Unlimited
While technically a small chain, Taste Unlimited has a strong local presence and offers fantastic sandwiches at affordable prices. Their “Norfolk” sandwich is a classic, featuring turkey, Swiss cheese, and their signature “house dressing” on a fresh roll. They also have a selection of soups, salads, and desserts, all at prices that won’t break the bank. Why locals love them is because it is an affordable Virginia Beach staple.
Happy Hour Havens
Happy hour is your secret weapon for enjoying delicious food and drinks at discounted prices. Many restaurants in Virginia Beach offer incredible happy hour deals, often including appetizers, small plates, and drink specials.
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Overlooking the oceanfront, Waterman’s is a popular spot known for its she-crab soup and lively atmosphere. During happy hour, they offer discounted appetizers and drink specials, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day at the beach without spending a fortune. The stunning ocean views are an added bonus. Enjoy an evening here and still enjoy cheap food in Virginia Beach.
Abbey Road Pub & Restaurant
A local favorite, Abbey Road Pub offers a fantastic happy hour menu with discounted appetizers, burgers, and drink specials. Their casual atmosphere and live music make it a great place to relax and enjoy a budget-friendly meal. There is something for everyone.
Chix Seaside Grille
Enjoy an oceanfront view during happy hour at Chix Seaside Grille. They have both drink and food specials that will keep you coming back for more! The food is exceptional and you will not regret choosing them to save money on cheap food in Virginia Beach.
Lunchtime Steals
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-timed lunch break. Many restaurants offer affordable lunch menus with smaller portions and lower prices than their dinner counterparts.
Doc Taylor’s
Housed in a historic building, Doc Taylor’s is a beloved breakfast and lunch spot known for its hearty portions and reasonable prices. Their lunch menu features sandwiches, salads, and burgers, all made with fresh ingredients. The charming atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to grab a quick and affordable lunch. What a great place to get cheap food in Virginia Beach!
Gringo’s Taqueria
Another excellent lunch spot, Gringo’s Taqueria offers a variety of delicious and affordable tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Their fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces make their food incredibly satisfying. It is a very good mexican option for cheap food in Virginia Beach.
Pelon’s Baja Grill
Pelon’s serves tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, and is a staple in Virginia Beach because of it’s quality and price! This is another Mexican option for cheap food in Virginia Beach!
Ethnic Eats and Global Flavors (Affordable Options)
Exploring different cuisines is a great way to expand your culinary horizons without breaking the bank. Virginia Beach boasts a diverse array of ethnic restaurants offering delicious and affordable options.
Pho 79
This local favorite serves up authentic Vietnamese pho at incredibly reasonable prices. A steaming bowl of flavorful broth, tender noodles, and fresh herbs is the perfect comfort food and a satisfying meal. You can get cheap food in Virginia Beach here, with fresh ingredients.
Yama Seafood
For those craving sushi, Yama Seafood offers a variety of affordable rolls and nigiri. They also have a selection of other Japanese dishes, such as teriyaki and tempura, all at budget-friendly prices.
Jessy’s Taqueria
If you love tacos, you’ll want to come here! They’re authentic, delicious, and the best part is… they’re cheap! You can enjoy cheap food in Virginia Beach at Jessy’s Taqueria and leave full!
Fast Food Done Right (Local Favorites)
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal. Skip the major chains and opt for a local fast-food joint that offers better quality and value for your money.
Ray’s Better Burgers
A local institution, Ray’s Better Burgers serves up juicy, delicious burgers at prices that won’t break the bank. Their fries are also a must-try, and their milkshakes are the perfect sweet treat to complete your meal.
Lynnhaven Fish House
While it might seem odd to include a fish house under the fast food category, Lynnhaven Fish House offers a quick and affordable way to enjoy fresh seafood. Their fried fish sandwiches and clam strips are incredibly popular and are a great alternative to traditional fast food.
Grocery Stores
If you’re looking for cheap food in Virginia Beach, don’t discredit grocery stores. Grocery stores have plenty of options to enjoy on a budget.
Harris Teeter
Harris Teeter sells sandwiches and salads for an affordable price! With all the options they have to choose from, you are sure to get the perfect sandwich or salad.
Whole Foods
Whole Foods has a fantastic salad bar for a reasonable price. A lot of people enjoy stopping here to pick up a salad and eating it at the beach!
Tips for Saving Money on Food in Virginia Beach
Beyond choosing the right restaurants, there are several other strategies you can employ to save money on food in Virginia Beach. A little planning and resourcefulness can go a long way in keeping your dining expenses under control.
One of the most effective ways to save money is to cook your own meals. If you have access to a kitchen in your hotel or vacation rental, consider preparing some of your meals. Grocery stores offer a wide variety of ingredients at affordable prices.
Packing snacks is another simple way to avoid impulse purchases. Bring along granola bars, fruit, or other snacks to satisfy your hunger between meals. This will help you resist the temptation of expensive snacks and drinks at tourist attractions.
Keep an eye out for coupons and discounts. Many restaurants and attractions offer coupons in local newspapers, tourism brochures, and online. A little searching can often uncover significant savings.
Take advantage of free breakfasts offered at many hotels. This is a great way to start your day with a filling meal without spending any extra money.
Consider sharing dishes, especially appetizers or larger entrees. This is a great way to sample different items on the menu without overspending.
Ordering water instead of soda is a simple way to save a few dollars. The cost of beverages can quickly add up, so opting for water can make a noticeable difference in your overall bill.
Visit during the off-season. Restaurants may offer more deals and discounts during the off-season to attract customers.
Check out Groupon for deals on restaurants and attractions. Groupon often features discounted vouchers for local businesses, which can help you save money on dining and entertainment.
Order take-out and have a picnic on the beach. This is a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Virginia Beach while saving money on restaurant meals.
Conclusion
Eating affordably in Virginia Beach is not only possible, but it can also be a fun and rewarding experience. By exploring the options presented in this guide and utilizing the money-saving tips, you can savor the delicious flavors of Virginia Beach without emptying your wallet. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path, try new cuisines, and take advantage of happy hour deals. With a little planning and resourcefulness, you can enjoy a memorable culinary adventure while staying within your budget. So go ahead, explore the taste of Virginia Beach without blowing your budget! Discover the hidden gems, indulge in the local favorites, and create lasting memories without breaking the bank. Bon appétit!
