Living in Chesapeake means your paycheck disappears faster than fries at a cookout. We’ve seen $18 burgers that couldn’t satisfy a toddler. But when rent’s due and you’re craving something juicy, these spots deliver. They’re the real deals where you can get a killer burger for under $15—whether you want classic cheeseburgers, loaded bacon monsters, or patties bigger than your head, start here.
Clean Eatz
$$ | (757) 698-4485 | WEBSITE
The bison burger from Clean Eatz deserves its own national holiday. And while we probably won’t have time off to honor Sweet Potato Fries With A Perfect Crisp Day any time soon, we’ll settle for heading to this healthy spot in Chesapeake weekly. For something this fresh and this flavorful, $13.75 for the combo is a steal. They also have tons of other options, from an excellent berry berry smoothie to the Hammerhead wrap seasoned with care. Go keto-friendly, always.
Court House Cafe
$ | (757) 482-7077 | WEBSITE
This Chesapeake institution is serving the best prime rib in the entire region. The cuts are ridiculously tender, and the ones that melt in your mouth with a fork should be on the shortlist of every self-respecting comfort food enthusiast. Especially since each plate costs around $35, which is less than a movie night for two. Maybe we should have led with that?
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews
$ | (757) 488-8477 | WEBSITE
This popular burger joint in Chesapeake is a go-to for a casual family meal—the welcoming spot stays open through dinner, so you can swing by for your Quest Lava Burger (which rings in at around $14, but easily satisfies a hearty appetite). But the best value lies in the attentive service. The staff makes you feel like a VIP, remembering regulars and taking extra time with kids, and will easily power you through your inevitable craving for a perfectly cooked burger.
McGrath’s Burger Shack
$ | (757) 389-7476 | WEBSITE
Ask a group of people about their favorite burger in Chesapeake, and you’ll get at least seven different answers. Ask us, and we’ll tell you to beeline to McGrath’s Burger Shack in Great Bridge. The cozy neighborhood spot is home to flavorful burgers with juicy patties and fresh toppings that always include perfectly-cooked meat and all the delicious fixings.
The order: an Irish BBQ burger with that preferred sauce ($10.75), which also leaves room in the budget for a side of those wonderful seasoned steak fries.
Bubba’s 33
$ | (757) 384-4429 | WEBSITE
You know you’re at Bubba’s 33 when the music hits you before you even walk through the door. This vibrant, nostalgic spot is where we go to load up on lasagna with fresh basil and sausage, burgers that hit all the right notes, and a well-balanced menu that keeps everyone happy. The best part is that you can get all that for less than the $20 bill you just found in your winter coat pocket.
Order everything that catches your eye, settle into the lively atmosphere with friends, and let the friendly wait staff make sure your night out is exactly what you needed.
Mister Jim’s
$ | (757) 482-1333 | WEBSITE
Mister Jim’s in Chesapeake has the best sub deal in town. Their $8 grinders are foot-long sized, and come packed with generous layers of ham, salami, and melty provolone cheese, comparable to an Italian grinder. On top of getting a filling and delicious meal that costs less than most fast-casual spots, they also have a $3.99 deal on sides—in case you want to throw in some fries to complete the experience.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
$ | (757) 488-1860 | WEBSITE
Not only can a meal at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill run you less than it costs to fill up half a gas tank, but it’s also reliably classic. Everything at this Chesapeake burger spot is straightforward and familiar, so you can order their signature Blizzard treats, burgers, and soft-serve, and get your fix in just a few minutes—especially if you swing by during off-peak hours when Terrie might be working.
Service can be hit-or-miss, but you’re guaranteed at least a few options for sub-$8 Blizzards, burgers, and fries, though the Oreo Blizzard sometimes disappoints with unmixed ingredients.
Surf Dogs
$ | (757) 819-7124 | WEBSITE
This cozy Chesapeake burger joint has a daily lunch special for $12.95—grab the Cheeseburger in Paradise with onion rings and banana pudding ice cream. Enough on its own, this combo also includes a side of tots, a grilled cheese in paradise for the kids, and a drink. Just make sure you have cash and a few extra bucks for tip.
Dairy Queen (Treat)
$ | (757) 482-5658 | WEBSITE
This ice cream spot in Chesapeake makes some of our favorite frozen treats in the area—the Dairy Queen Superman Blizzard is a colorful, creamy stunner—and it’ll run you about $5 for a medium. And even if you’re this close to starting a low-carb diet as another health resolution, you should still treat yourself to one of these for a quick pick-me-up. Heads-up, there’s no drive-thru.
Hardee’s
$ | (757) 436-3037 | WEBSITE
Next time you find a $10 bill in an old pair of jeans and want to spend it on something worthwhile, head to Hardee’s. The morning chicken biscuit is a standout, part flaky biscuit and part savory fried chicken that’s hot and fresh. This is one of the best breakfasts in Chesapeake, and at $5-ish for a platter with extras like strawberry jam, it’s the best value, too.