Chesapeake’s seafood scene is a sprawling ocean of options, making it daunting to navigate where to cast your line for the freshest catch. But we’ve done the legwork for you. Whether you’re craving buttery lobster rolls or hoping to discover the area’s best oyster bar, this guide will help you reel in the perfect meal.
Red Bones Raw Bar Seafood Grille
$ | (757) 436-4200 | WEBSITE
You can come to Red Bones for their fantastic seafood (most tables have a view of the lively bar area), or you can focus on the other dishes—like the crab bisque, oysters, or the blackened shrimp lunch special, which is one of the best in Chesapeake. As far as seafood grilles go, this affordable place is pretty festive.
You’ll be enjoying your fresh seafood to a fun atmosphere, surrounded by other travelers on their way to the Outer Banks grabbing quick bites and people that clearly just came from the Norfolk airport.
Pirate’s Cove Restaurant
$$ | (757) 549-7272 | WEBSITE
This seafood spot is bright and inviting, with a cozy, laid-back atmosphere that feels like a quaint seaside town. Everything that comes out of the kitchen is generously portioned and delicious. We like the peel and eat shrimp, but don’t overlook the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crab legs or hushpuppies, and breaking up the seafood feast with some fried onion rings is a good idea.
Pirate’s Cove works for a family gathering since the staff are warm and welcoming, but it’s great for a casual meal, too. No matter why you’re here, it’s an easy place to have a good time. And in case you want to recreate the experience at home, they offer takeout from their unassuming corner location.
Captain J Seafood
$ | (757) 494-1500 | WEBSITE
This is the Chesapeake follow-up to Captain’s Catch and Bay Breeze. Like everything in the fried seafood scene, Captain J Seafood is a straightforward spot with satisfying food. Here, you’ll find classic fried seafood done right—like the shrimp that’s a particular highlight. Of course, everything comes in generous portions at reasonable prices.
Also worth noting is that the service is quick and the seafood is usually hot and fresh, though the bathroom isn’t easily accessible and parking may be limited during peak hours. Overall, Captain J Seafood is a good option for those looking for a simple, satisfying meal.
Carrabba’s Italian grill
$$ | (757) 382-0337 | WEBSITE
Chesapeake has more Italian restaurants than any other city in Virginia. Our last count was thirteen, and they’re all operating within a few miles from each other. And, despite our trust issues with chain restaurants, they’re all really good. Carrabba’s Italian Grill is another one of those restaurants.
They have things like the Shrimp Damian, which is served quickly and is delicious, a variety of vegetarian options that are thoughtfully prepared, and incredible service from friendly staff like Kristina and Kiki. Most dishes range from $15-$30, and it works for a casual family meal. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making diners feel as if they are eating with family, though the service can be inconsistent at times.
Still, many have had positive experiences thanks to attentive staff members who go the extra mile to make guests feel special.
The Twisted Crab – Greenbrier Mall
$$ | (757) 452-5956 | WEBSITE
Even by Chesapeake seafood standards, this place is a scene. The good news is that The Twisted Crab is a scene that comes with fantastic food. It’s always lively, but the space is spacious and clean, and there’s indoor and outdoor seating that’s perfect for hanging out over drinks (even during a casual meal).
And as with its vibrant Cajun-style atmosphere, a lot of things on the seafood menu are meant to be shared, like the generous seafood boil specials with snow crab legs, shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes.
The Butcher’s Son
$$$ | (757) 410-5466 | WEBSITE
The Butcher’s Son is in Chesapeake, and from the same team as the city’s top seafood spots. This means they have a cozy, intimate dining room perfect for date nights. Or you could sit near the bar, where it’s softly lit and full of comfortable seating. The menu has a lot of dishes you’ll find at their other restaurants. They serve high-quality cuisine like she crab soup, tender steaks, spring rolls, and a very good fillet mignon.
This place works well for a special occasion, or anytime you want an early bird steak dinner special with excellent service.
China Chef
$ | (757) 436-9585 | WEBSITE
This is one of the only spots in the Greenbrier area that specializes in authentic Chinese takeout – crispy egg rolls, flavorful lo mein, and tender ribs. China Chef has a few different varieties to choose from (for example General Tso chicken that’s perfectly crispy), and we like them all. Be prepared, though—this trusted establishment gets very busy. So definitely plan on ordering ahead.
Red Lobster
$$ | (757) 465-0627 | WEBSITE
This popular seafood restaurant is a familiar destination for those seeking comforting classics and nostalgic dining. The place offers a range of dishes, from the all-you-can-eat shrimp to perfectly cooked steak. All the meals come with reliable presentation, and you’ll find satisfying options like the shrimp promo and steak entrees. When the service is exceptional, such as with staff like Kendal or Jayden, guests feel treated with attentive care.
The restaurant remains a welcoming spot for seafood enthusiasts, especially for those who enjoy good service and a familiar atmosphere.
Surf Rider
$$ | (757) 966-5840 | WEBSITE
Surf Rider in Chesapeake is always humming with activity, and everyone from families to solo diners. And the atmosphere is spot-on—decorated with nautical touches and a very crisp, clean feel. Plus, it’s roughly the size of a cozy seaside shack but with way better service. This seafood spot has excellent management, and while the menu isn’t going to surprise you with wild innovation (it’s mainly fried shrimp, crab cakes, and a handful of classics like pasta with chicken) it is delicious.
The fried shrimp can only be described as “perfect”, the crab cakes are the best in the area, and the onion rings stay crispy even while sitting alongside a hearty hamburger steak. The she-crab soup is a must-try, and desserts round things out nicely. Parking can be tight, but the staff is on point—quick and friendly—making it a refreshing experience worth the visit.
Pier 88
$$ | (757) 290-0040 | WEBSITE
OK this one might take some planning since Pier 88 gets booked up quickly. And for good reason, this spot has some of the best seafood in Chesapeake. Every dish here is fantastic, in particular the crab cakes, which are a menu staple. But the non-seafood is great, too (try the clam chowder or the grilled chicken), and what makes this place even better is that you can buy their fresh fish, sauces, and pantry items to take home.
Eddie’s Chesapeake Bay Crabhouse & More
$$ | (757) 543-7009 | WEBSITE
Lunch at Eddie’s Chesapeake Bay Crabhouse & More might make you forget that we live in a city that necessitates owning a floor-length puffer coat. This hometown seafood favorite is filled with nautical decor and family photos, and the menu focuses on food from the Chesapeake Bay. You’ll find dishes like fried crabs with their crispy and flavorful batter, whiting that’s consistently meaty and juicy, and the crab balls, which include your choice of sides and are perfect for two people to share.
(food Truck) Prime 757: Craft Meat and Seafood
$ | (757) 652-3390 | WEBSITE
Prime 757: Craft Meat and Seafood is the food truck that’s been making waves across Chesapeake. And while the seafood here is excellent (with dishes like the crab cake sandwich and spicy maple wings) the main reason to track this truck down is for the outstanding lobster roll special. The roll is packed with sweet, tender lobster meat, giving it a luxurious texture and incredible freshness. The buttered bun is soft and the truffle fries on the side are plentiful.
In other words, even if the brewery line is long at least this will be good.
Great Wall Chinese Restaurant
$ | (757) 686-9566 | WEBSITE
When you need a sure thing, Great Wall. You can never go wrong here, and we encourage you to stop by Great Wall every now and then to remind yourself how reliably satisfying it is. New specials keep things fresh and interesting, but it’s the staples like the orange chicken made with real orange and the chicken lo mein that we’ll always come back for.