Packed House 915 W 21St. Suite B, Norfolk, VA 23517 Hours: Wednesday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
If Ghent is Norfolk’s quirky, hip and artsy little neighborhood, then Packed House is its epicenter. Home to thousands of vintage finds, this 21st Street throwback shop is, well, packed with everything from ‘90s clothing to VHS tapes, antique cameras, posters, lunch boxes, hats and some things that simply defy description.
Owners Morgan Tomasovic and Nick Rayfield spent years doing pop-up markets before opening the shop in August 2023. Nomadic by nature, they soon found that breaking down booths, hauling racks and loading boxes was losing its charm. Needing a home base, they picked a busy spot on 21st between Hampton and Colley, where foot traffic is strong and the potential for walk-in business is high.
Definitively Not a Thrift Store
Before you think, “cool little thrift shop,” think again. Nothing you see in Packed House is random. Morgan and Nick are quick to point out that they don’t take donations and don’t put out inventory just to fill rack space. Every item in the shop has been purchased and chosen intentionally.
If someone brings in a box of odds and ends, it’s evaluated carefully. If it fits, they buy it. If not, they’ll point the seller in the right direction. But the one thing you won’t find at Packed House is a pile of castoffs.
The common thread? At least one of them likes the item and understands what it’s about.
Vintage Threads
In the store’s middle aisle, clothing is organized by size rather than gender. Sure, some cuts may lean traditional, but most pieces are meant to work however (and on whoever) they best fit. You’ll find vintage graphic tees, denim, workwear, vintage jackets and regional pieces rotating in regularly.
To Tomasovic and Rayfield, authenticity is the top priority. You won’t find modern reprints from Target masquerading as old. If it’s a band tee, it’s original. If it says it’s vintage, you can trust that it is.
Records, Books and Analog Finds
Packed House carries roughly 1,000 records at any given time. The owners say this is curated on purpose. Morgan and Nick are collectors themselves and keep the selection manageable rather than turning the shop into a full-scale record store. In fact, they test out each record individually before putting it up for sale.
Books pop up randomly throughout the shop instead of in a single aisle. Spend a few minutes and you’ll come across vintage hardbacks and paperbacks around every corner.
You’ll also find audio equipment, cassette tapes, old lunchboxes, classic laser tag sets and the kind of nostalgic pieces that make you stop mid-aisle and say, “I had one of those.”
Local History on the Racks
Being locals from Virginia Beach, Morgan and Nick have an eye for regional pieces. Vintage Granby High School jackets from the late 1940s and early ’50s have passed through the shop. Some of what’s displayed on the walls isn’t for sale, but if a duplicate surfaces, it may end up being offered to Packed House customers.
Packed House also serves as the physical box office for The Annex, selling paper tickets in-store.
The shop has hosted markets, game nights and live shows, and they’re working to expand that side of the business. The rolling clothes rack in the center of the store was built specifically so the space can be reconfigured for events.
Next door, Vang Go Bistro is bringing new energy to the block. During markets and special events, customers frequently move between the two spaces, making for the ultimate Ghent atmosphere of creative eats and vintage finds. It is, as they say, a vibe.
Take a walk up Granby St. on any given night and you’ll think you’ve wandered into a trendy NYC borough complete with restaurants of every cuisine type and happy foodies enjoying dinner on sidewalks and in cozy parklets/streateries. From the cozy and casual to the upscale and on-trend, Norfolk downtown restaurants have a little bit of something for everyone.
Drive down Church Street any given evening and you’re likely to catch the bright red and blue glow of the Attucks Theatre sign. Proudly hanging over the building, which was constructed and operated completely by African-Americans in the early 20th Century, the sign has seen many famous faces walk under it to take the historic stage at the “Apollo of the South.” Duke Ellington. Louis Armstrong. Cab Calloway. Ruth Brown. B.B. King. The Great Ella Fitzgerald. Just a few of the marquee names who’ve graced the hallowed halls of the Attucks.
Built in 1919 by the Twin City Amusement Corporation, a group that consisted of black doctors, lawyers, pharmacists and businessmen from Norfolk and Portsmouth, the Attucks opened the following year as a major hotspot for live entertainment. For decades, it would serve as a place where African Americans could gather, perform and be entertained with dignity in a time when it was in short supply.
Setting the Course
SevenVenues Event Administrator Denise Christian says that by opening in 1920, Attucks charted the course for other Black theaters to follow. That includes Harlem’s Apollo Theater, which technically opened earlier, but did not feature Black performers until 1934. Christian recalls hearing stories of Duke Ellington, who would perform primetime shows in Downtown Norfolk, and then make a beeline to the Attucks for midnight jam sessions that often lasted until 4 a.m.
Besides being a premier theater for African-American performers, the Attucks also served as a first-run movie theater and was home to several offices and stores, including an ice cream parlor. Remnants of these offices can still be seen throughout the building’s three main levels. Christian says the Attucks housed professionals, supported Black entrepreneurship and was often championed in the Norfolk Journal and Guide, a leading black southern newspaper of the time.
“It was a catalyst for other economic development,” Chrisitan says, adding that the Journal and Guide helped guide African American travelers to spaces where they were welcome.
Bringing Down the Curtain
When the theater originally closed in 1955, the building weathered decades of neglect. It saw retail conversions, roof leaks and plenty of termite damage. Christian joined the restoration effort in 1993. After years of persistence, “we opened in October, 2004,” she says.
During restoration, it was quickly decided that the theater’s massive fire curtain — which depicts Crispus Attucks, an African American long regarded as the first person killed in the Boston Massacre — would be saved. The textile, which is at least 30 feet wide and just as high, weighs 500 pounds and is a stunning visual reminder of the sacrifices African Americans have often made in the name of freedom. Painstaking work was undertaken to encapsulate the curtain’s many asbestos fibers, Christian says.
“The team was careful. They were not trying to make it look like a new curtain, obviously.”
Standing in the dim theater as the curtain lowers, it’s easy to imagine countless opening nights, ovations, curtain calls and classic performances the room has been witness to.
Black Voices & Visions
Today, the Attucks is widening its scope. Through “Black Voices & Visions,” presented in partnership with Norfolk Arts, the theater has embraced visual art alongside performance. The 1,500 square foot gallery features 60 original works of art selected by Joan Rhodes-Copeland, who also runs the Church Street Aspire Gallery. The gallery features Hampton Roads-based artists, and most works are for sale.
“This is the first art exhibit we’ve had in the building,” Christian says. The gallery showcases local African American artists, transforming the historic space into a space that is both intimate and inspiring.
The works will rotate twice per year. Visitors can see the current exhibit through April 3, 2026 by attending any ticketed performance at the Attucks or during Arts at the Attucks events. Learn more about events at the Norfolk Arts website.
March is a time of transitions. It’s when winter gives way to the warmer breezes of spring, and when hockey season becomes baseball season. This March, there’s a lot to do, both indoors and out in Norfolk, Virginia. Here are a few of our favorite events.
Parodies, homages, and entirely new absurdities unfold in a mixed bill of sketches, improv, and games inspired by Austen’s most beloved themes. Expect drawing rooms under pressure, feelings expressed far too late, and at least one story created live onstage that Austen herself would have strong notes about.
At every show, Manilow will celebrate local music educators with the Manilow Music Teacher Award. Created through the Manilow Music Project, a program of the Manilow Fund, the Manilow Music Teacher Award honors educators whose passion and dedication help bring music to life for their students. Nominees will be revealed on January 22nd, the same day voting opens. The teacher receiving the most online votes will be recognized live onstage during Manilow’s concert and will receive a total prize of $10,000 — a $5,000 cash award and $5,000 in “Manilow Bucks” for classroom instrument purchases.
This extraordinary production will be performed by Grand Kyiv Ballet, the most renowned Ukrainian ballet company, under the direction of Oleksandr Stoianov, one of Europe’s leading figures in classical dance. Their interpretation brings a new emotional depth and technical brilliance to this timeless masterpiece. Featuring breathtaking choreography, evocative music, and a cast of world-class dancers, Giselle promises to be an unforgettable evening of elegance, passion, and pure artistry.
Bert Kreischer is the ultimate comedy powerhouse, known for his wild stories, larger-than-life personality, and legendary shirtless performances. From Netflix specials to sold-out arena tours and hit podcasts Bertcast and 2 Bears, 1 Cave, Bert keeps audiences laughing nonstop. Don’t miss your chance to see “The Machine” bring the party live on stage!
Come celebrate your favorite TV obsession as we dance to the Heated Rivalry soundtrack, the hottest queer pop anthems, and nostalgic alt hits all night long!
Join us for the 9th Annual UNCF Hampton Roads Mayors’ Masked Ball! The premier fundraising gala and major social event focuses on raising public awareness and large donations to support deserving students across Virginia.
Bringing together individuals, small businesses, corporate sponsors, celebrities, dignitaries, civic leaders, public officials, and alumni who support UNCF’s mission, the evening encourages every attendee to invest in better futures for all.
The 2026 Hampton Roads Pride Brew Tour is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever. They’ve partnered with the best breweries in the region to bring you exclusive discounts and a fantastic way to explore the vibrant craft beer scene while celebrating Pride. The Brew Tour Kicks off at Maker’s Craft Brewery on March 7th with food, drinks, DJ, and a drag show! Pick up your Brew Tour Passport from 4-6PM, then enjoy the fun! The Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck will be here 4-10PM. DJ Bearcub Belladonna goes on from 6-10PM. The drag show, featuring Host Fushia DeVilla, Skarlett Letter, Grey Area, Anna Trocity, and Euthanasia, is from 7:30 to 8:30!
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) enters its 55th year of intercollegiate competition with the 2025-26 academic school year. Located in Norfolk, VA., the MEAC is made up of eight outstanding historically black institutions across the Atlantic coastline: Coppin State University, Delaware State University, Howard University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Morgan State University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina Central University and South Carolina State University. The Norfolk State Spartans and the Howard Bison won the 2023 women’s and men’s titles, respectively and received bids to the NCAA Tournament.
This event is part of the Norfolk Theatre Festival in March-April 2026. Virginia Stage Company presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Lyrics by Tim Rice and Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber This beloved musical reimagines the Biblical story of Joseph, a magical tale packed with adventures, beguiling characters (like the Elvis-inspired Pharoah), and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant score, full of catchy songs from country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) to Caribbean (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.” Directed and Choreographed by Billy Bustamante.
One man’s lifelong love of music fueled a composing career and endowed programs that would nurture artists for generations to come. F. Ludwig Diehn, a successful businessman with degrees in law and chemistry, fulfilled his musical dreams by composing works for orchestra and chamber ensembles that have been performed around the world. He chose Norfolk as his home, and left a legacy to the community whose impact is vast, touching the lives of aspiring artists, students, and audiences alike. Virginia Arts Festival joins Hampton Roads Community Foundation to celebrate Diehn’s life and music in this memorable performance of his works featuring some of the region’s finest musicians.
Join the Party after the Parade at COVA on Saturday, March 14th! Green beer will be flowing all day. Enjoy live music, food, drinks and an Irish good time.
The RnB Block Party will welcome a headlining set from international mixtape DJ and producer DJ Drama. Additional sets will be played by national DJ and host Jae Murphy; RnB Block Party resident DJ, Izzy The DJ; Chris Brown’s tour DJ, DJ Fresh; and Sony Da Goat, DJ Flood, and Malika.
Hermitage Museum & Gardens March 19 – April 4, 2026
Step into What Remains—an immersive, audio-guided journey through a house alive with memory and myth. Guests witness a magical dinner, taste elixirs, and descend into a dark night of the soul, guided by light, sound, and story. Created by ROŪGE—the team behind Dream Clinic, Gretels, and Pride & Prejudice & Dragons—this reimagined Victorian fable rises from the ether, where invention meets possession and the past refuses to stay buried. This event is part of the Norfolk Theatre Festival.
Richman says it best himself: “The music we’re doing now works well in quiet places like theaters and performing art centers. We still don’t use a program or a set list, so we don’t know what we’ll do until we do it. Please do not expect old songs. Many singers my age do a retrospective; this show is not like that. It’s mostly stuff made up in the last 3 and 4 years. Some of the songs presented might be in different languages; this is not to be esoteric or clever, it’s because the different languages help me express different feelings sometimes. One last thing, my idea of a good show has nothing to do with applause. It’s about if all the songs I sang that night were ones that I felt.”
The Chrysler Museum of Art and the Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA) proudly present the 12th annual Wearable Arts Show, a one-of-a-kind runway event celebrating the innovation and ingenuity of more than 50 students. Inspired by the Chrysler Museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, this long-standing collaboration encourages young artists to use museums as sources of inspiration and artistic growth.
In 2026, Virginia Arts Festival proudly welcomes the return of Dance Theatre of Harlem—this time bringing one of the company’s most beloved signature works: Firebird. This legendary production reimagines the classic Russian folk tale of love’s triumph over evil in a lush, Caribbean setting. With John Taras’ masterful choreography, Igor Stravinsky’s iconic score (1945 version) performed live with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and Geoffrey Holder’s dazzling costumes and sets, Firebird is a feast for the senses. First created in 1982, this Dance Theatre of Harlem classic has toured the world and enchanted audiences everywhere. As The New York Times declared: “…it does one thing other versions do not – send its audience into a whooping spell of delirium.”
NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater March 27-29, 2026
This event is part of the Norfolk Theater Festival in March-April 2026. Learn more here. This 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner is a touching comedic drama about a young man named Kenneth and his journey towards new beginnings as he finds the courage to really enter the world for the first time. Primary Trust contains adult content.
The Norfolk Tides, the Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, will kick off their 2026 season with a three-game homestand against the Nashville Sounds on March 27 (6:35 p.m.), March 28 (6:35 p.m.) and March 29 (1:05 p.m.) at Harbor Park.
Be astounded by the world’s most revered composition, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. This cornerstone of Western music takes audiences on a euphoric journey of fate, from tragedy to triumph, from sorrow to joy, and serves as the fitting grand finale of our fifth symphony celebration. Revel in Mozart’s compositional brilliance with his Sinfonia Concertante featuring the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s own Principal Viola Celia Daggy and Principal Second Violin Elizabeth Vonderheide.
Famed Broadway music director and the Festival’s Goode Family Artistic Advisor for Musical Theater and the American Songbook, Rob Fisher cut his musical teeth on Gershwin. The uniquely American music that George and Ira Gershwin created fused classical, Broadway, jazz and Tin Pan Alley to form an exhilarating new kind of music for the 20th century and beyond, conquering stage and screen with enduring classics like “Embraceable You,” “Summertime,” “Love is Here to Stay,” and “Rhapsody in Blue” a favorite for audiences and orchestras. Rob Fisher curated the Carnegie Hall Gershwin Centennial celebrations of Ira’s in 1996 and George’s in 1998. The Gershwin brothers’ timeless songs explore the joys and disappointments of love, brought vividly to life by Ross Lekites (Brigadoon, Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen, Wicked). In this must-hear concert, Fisher gathers Broadway singers and a swinging quartet for a trip down a memory lane of greatness, courtesy of the immortal Gershwin brothers.
David Spade became a household favorite during his tenure as a cast member on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live”. Spade has starred in film and television highlights such as JOE DIRT, GROWN UPS, THE WRONG MISSY, “Rules Of Engagement” and “8 Simples Rules”. For his memorable role as Dennis Finch on “Just Shoot Me”, Spade received nominations for a 1999 Emmy Award, Golden Globe, and American Comedy Award. Spade continues to be a box office draw, touring his stand-up shows nationwide. He can be heard co-hosting the hit podcast “Fly on the Wall”, alongside fellow SNL alumni Dana Carvey, and their spin-off pop culture podcast “Superfly”. Currently, Spade is in production on BUSBOYS, a film he co-wrote, is co-producing and co-starring in alongside Theo Von.
In this moving, inspiring play, Supreme Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey fascinating and often funny moments of her life and its many trials: losing her mother the day before she graduated as valedictorian of her Brooklyn high school … being one of only nine young women studying law at Harvard while also raising a daughter and helping her husband battle cancer … fighting for women’s rights in the 1970s… and taking courageous stands for human rights as a voice of reason amid a splintering and increasingly politicized Supreme Court. An evening with a great and compassionate icon of American justice–an RBG who is not only “notorious” but victorious as she takes a stand for ordinary people facing the many challenges of a changing world.
Psst. Call it a well-kept secret if you like, but Norfolk, Virginia is home to more historic theaters and high-quality stage productions than nearly anywhere else in the Commonwealth. Now, the Norfolk Theatre Festival aims to make that a commonly-known fact.
This year’s festival brings a virtual gumbo pot of artists and productions to the city’s historic theaters and venues, from a classic Broadway musical to a post-modern cabaret diva to tales of justice, a spine-chilling true story of Victorian murder and much more to Mermaid City.
According to organizers, the festival’s aim is to deliver engaging theater, “produced by great local companies performing in beautiful venues that include some of the city’s architecturally and historically significant spaces – as well as spectacular touring Broadway companies.”
Headed up by Virginia Arts Festival, the annual event kicked off in 2019 but was sidelined by the COVID pandemic. In 2024, it made its return with the idea of presenting a variety of performances in Norfolk’s historic venues. The current partnership includes productions from Virginia Arts Festival, Rouge Theatre Reinvented, the Norfolk State University Theatre Company, Core Theatre Ensemble and Broadway in Norfolk (Seven Venues).
Norfolk State University Theater Director Anthony Stockard, who heads up the festival, says, “Norfolk is uniquely situated with the highest concentration of arts organizations. This is unique for any region in America.”
Stockard says, “this is a huge collaborative effort and this year will be the largest in history in terms of participants. We’re really happy to see it growing.”
Among the venues hosting Theatre Festival performances are the historic Wells Theatre, home to Virginia Stage Company productions; the Attucks Theatre, the oldest theater built by African-Americans; Chrysler Hall, home to the annual Broadway in Norfolk shows; the Harrison Opera House, home to the Virginia Opera; the Hermitage Museum & Gardens; the Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater to HBCU Norfolk State University; the Robin Hixon Theater; and the Hunter House Victorian Museum.
In short, a ticket to the Norfolk Theatre Festival is a chance to see some of Virginia’s top performing arts venues in a historic city.
March 20 – 29 The Wells Theatre This beloved musical reimagines the Biblical story of Joseph, a magical tale packed with adventures, beguiling characters (like the Elvis-inspired Pharoah), and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant score, full of catchy songs from country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) to Caribbean (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.”
March 20 – April 4 (Thursdays – Saturdays) The Hermitage Museum & Gardens Step into What Remains—an immersive, audio-guided journey through a house alive with memory and myth. Guests witness a magical dinner, taste elixirs, and descend into a dark night of the soul, guided by light, sound, and story. Created by ROŪGE—the team behind Dream Clinic, Gretels, and Pride & Prejudice & Dragons—this reimagined Victorian fable rises from the ether, where invention meets possession and the past refuses to stay buried.
Primary Trust
March 27 – 29 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner is a touching comedic drama about a young man named Kenneth and his journey towards new beginnings as he finds the courage to really enter the world for the first time. Primary Trust contains adult content.
March 28 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Rob Fisher, piano and music director Patti Murin, vocalist Ross Lekites, vocalist Famed Broadway music director and the Festival’s Goode Family Artistic Advisor for Musical Theater and the American Songbook, Rob Fisher cut his musical teeth on Gershwin. The uniquely American music that George and Ira Gershwin created fused classical, Broadway, jazz and Tin Pan Alley to form an exhilarating new kind of music for the 20th century and beyond, conquering stage and screen with enduring classics like “Embraceable You,” “Summertime,” “Love is Here to Stay,” and “Rhapsody in Blue” a favorite for audiences and orchestras. Rob Fisher curated the Carnegie Hall Gershwin Centennial celebrations of Ira’s in 1996 and George’s in 1998. The Gershwin brothers’ timeless songs explore the joys and disappointments of love, brought vividly to life by Ross Lekites (Brigadoon, Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen, Wicked). In this must-hear concert, Fisher gathers Broadway singers and a swinging quartet for a trip down a memory lane of greatness, courtesy of the immortal Gershwin brothers.
March 29 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Written by Tony Award-winning playwright RUPERT HOLMES Starring Michelle Azar as Ruth Bader Ginsburg Directed by Laley Lippard In this moving, inspiring play, Supreme Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey fascinating and often funny moments of her life and its many trials: losing her mother the day before she graduated as valedictorian of her Brooklyn high school … being one of only nine young women studying law at Harvard while also raising a daughter and helping her husband battle cancer … fighting for women’s rights in the 1970s… and taking courageous stands for human rights as a voice of reason amid a splintering and increasingly politicized Supreme Court. An evening with a great and compassionate icon of American justice–an RBG who is not only “notorious” but victorious as she takes a stand for ordinary people facing the many challenges of a changing world.
March 30 – 31 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center An experience you will never forget, this internationally acclaimed cabaret star draws fans from every continent. As critics note in swooning reviews, “There are not many women who can stun an audience into pin-drop silence with an exquisitely delivered torch song one moment and rock the rafters with laughter the next” (The Evening Standard UK). “The voice alone is glorious in its range and texture. But combine it with carefully chosen songs, superb comic timing, improvisational wit, and some engaging audience participation so cannily conducted that you suspect a degree in psychology, and you have an evening that demonstrates that Meow Meow really is the cat’s whiskers” (The Guardian).
March 31 – April 5 Chrysler Hall Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Norfolk in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
April 8 – 26 The Wells Theatre 1943. Two young Harlemites form a friendship over leftover fried chicken and dirty dishwater. But a long, hot summer of heartbreak, betrayal, and racial uprisings moves them closer to the men they will become and farther from each other. This electrifying world premiere blends sharp humor with raw humanity, revealing the laughter, struggle, and brotherhood that shaped two legends.
40 Whacks: The Nightmare of Lizzie Borden
April 9 – 12 The Hunter House Victorian Museum In the extremely intimate setting of the historic Hunter House Victorian Museum (Norfolk, VA), Core Theatre Ensemble will showcase their award-winning production like never before. The Lizzie Borden murder case captivated the nation over one hundred years ago and is still considered “one of the most dastardly and diabolical crimes that was ever committed.” Andrew and Abby Borden’s bodies were found axed to death in their home in August 1892; their daughter Lizzie was arrested and charged days later. The case was surrounded by a passionately divided public. The opinion of women and the extent of their capabilities fueled an intense debate concerning her guilt or innocence. Lizzie was ultimately acquitted of all charges due to circumstantial evidence, incompetent prosecution, and the pervading delusion that a “woman is incapable of doing so foul a deed.”
April 10 – 11 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Edinburgh Fringe favorite Victoria Melody returns to Virginia Arts Festival after her successful wildly witty tale Major Tom. Who really shapes history? While spending weekends with a historical re-enactment society, award-winning theatre maker and “Fringe legend” (Time Out) Victoria Melody uncovered the story of a group of 17th-century radicals called The Diggers—and began a quest to find the Diggers of today. Blending storytelling and stand-up, this wildly entertaining show celebrates ordinary people still making history.
Dear Evan Hansen
April 24 – 26 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 6X Tony Award-winning best musical introduces us to Evan, who writes a letter that was never meant to be read. It finds its way into the hands of a grieving mother who thinks her son wrote the letter to Evan before taking his own life. She refuses to believe her son didn’t write the letter, so Evan goes along with it and creates a story that changes everyone’s lives forever. Dear Evan Hansen contains strong profanity, adult situations, conversations about suicide and dark comedy.
A celebration of one of Virginia’s most theater-rich cities! Throughout the year, Norfolk is home to vibrant, creative, engaged and engaging theater, produced by great local companies performing in beautiful venues that include some of the city’s architecturally and historically significant spaces – as well as spectacular touring Broadway companies.
Serving up all of what theater does so well, the 2026 Norfolk Theatre Festival brings moving, funny, thought-provoking, entertaining works to stages throughout Norfolk. Rediscover how theater thrills, transports and moves us. Visit NFKTHEATRE.COM for more details on each performance and for links to buy tickets!
March 20 – 29 The Wells Theatre This beloved musical reimagines the Biblical story of Joseph, a magical tale packed with adventures, beguiling characters (like the Elvis-inspired Pharoah), and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant score, full of catchy songs from country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) to Caribbean (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.”
March 20 – April 4 (Thursdays – Saturdays) The Hermitage Museum & Gardens Step into What Remains—an immersive, audio-guided journey through a house alive with memory and myth. Guests witness a magical dinner, taste elixirs, and descend into a dark night of the soul, guided by light, sound, and story. Created by ROŪGE—the team behind Dream Clinic, Gretels, and Pride & Prejudice & Dragons—this reimagined Victorian fable rises from the ether, where invention meets possession and the past refuses to stay buried.
Primary Trust
March 27 – 29 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner is a touching comedic drama about a young man named Kenneth and his journey towards new beginnings as he finds the courage to really enter the world for the first time. Primary Trust contains adult content.
March 28 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Rob Fisher, piano and music director Patti Murin, vocalist Ross Lekites, vocalist Famed Broadway music director and the Festival’s Goode Family Artistic Advisor for Musical Theater and the American Songbook, Rob Fisher cut his musical teeth on Gershwin. The uniquely American music that George and Ira Gershwin created fused classical, Broadway, jazz and Tin Pan Alley to form an exhilarating new kind of music for the 20th century and beyond, conquering stage and screen with enduring classics like “Embraceable You,” “Summertime,” “Love is Here to Stay,” and “Rhapsody in Blue” a favorite for audiences and orchestras. Rob Fisher curated the Carnegie Hall Gershwin Centennial celebrations of Ira’s in 1996 and George’s in 1998. The Gershwin brothers’ timeless songs explore the joys and disappointments of love, brought vividly to life by Ross Lekites (Brigadoon, Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen, Wicked). In this must-hear concert, Fisher gathers Broadway singers and a swinging quartet for a trip down a memory lane of greatness, courtesy of the immortal Gershwin brothers.
March 29 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Written by Tony Award-winning playwright RUPERT HOLMES Starring Michelle Azar as Ruth Bader Ginsburg Directed by Laley Lippard In this moving, inspiring play, Supreme Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey fascinating and often funny moments of her life and its many trials: losing her mother the day before she graduated as valedictorian of her Brooklyn high school … being one of only nine young women studying law at Harvard while also raising a daughter and helping her husband battle cancer … fighting for women’s rights in the 1970s… and taking courageous stands for human rights as a voice of reason amid a splintering and increasingly politicized Supreme Court. An evening with a great and compassionate icon of American justice–an RBG who is not only “notorious” but victorious as she takes a stand for ordinary people facing the many challenges of a changing world.
March 30 – 31 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center An experience you will never forget, this internationally acclaimed cabaret star draws fans from every continent. As critics note in swooning reviews, “There are not many women who can stun an audience into pin-drop silence with an exquisitely delivered torch song one moment and rock the rafters with laughter the next” (The Evening Standard UK). “The voice alone is glorious in its range and texture. But combine it with carefully chosen songs, superb comic timing, improvisational wit, and some engaging audience participation so cannily conducted that you suspect a degree in psychology, and you have an evening that demonstrates that Meow Meow really is the cat’s whiskers” (The Guardian).
March 31 – April 5 Chrysler Hall Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Norfolk in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
April 8 – 26 The Wells Theatre 1943. Two young Harlemites form a friendship over leftover fried chicken and dirty dishwater. But a long, hot summer of heartbreak, betrayal, and racial uprisings moves them closer to the men they will become and farther from each other. This electrifying world premiere blends sharp humor with raw humanity, revealing the laughter, struggle, and brotherhood that shaped two legends.
40 Whacks: The Nightmare of Lizzie Borden
April 9 – 12 The Hunter House Victorian Museum In the extremely intimate setting of the historic Hunter House Victorian Museum (Norfolk, VA), Core Theatre Ensemble will showcase their award-winning production like never before. The Lizzie Borden murder case captivated the nation over one hundred years ago and is still considered “one of the most dastardly and diabolical crimes that was ever committed.” Andrew and Abby Borden’s bodies were found axed to death in their home in August 1892; their daughter Lizzie was arrested and charged days later. The case was surrounded by a passionately divided public. The opinion of women and the extent of their capabilities fueled an intense debate concerning her guilt or innocence. Lizzie was ultimately acquitted of all charges due to circumstantial evidence, incompetent prosecution, and the pervading delusion that a “woman is incapable of doing so foul a deed.”
April 10 – 11 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Edinburgh Fringe favorite Victoria Melody returns to Virginia Arts Festival after her successful wildly witty tale Major Tom. Who really shapes history? While spending weekends with a historical re-enactment society, award-winning theatre maker and “Fringe legend” (Time Out) Victoria Melody uncovered the story of a group of 17th-century radicals called The Diggers—and began a quest to find the Diggers of today. Blending storytelling and stand-up, this wildly entertaining show celebrates ordinary people still making history.
Dear Evan Hansen
April 24 – 26 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 6X Tony Award-winning best musical introduces us to Evan, who writes a letter that was never meant to be read. It finds its way into the hands of a grieving mother who thinks her son wrote the letter to Evan before taking his own life. She refuses to believe her son didn’t write the letter, so Evan goes along with it and creates a story that changes everyone’s lives forever. Dear Evan Hansen contains strong profanity, adult situations, conversations about suicide and dark comedy.
Supporting women-owned businesses is important, not just during Women’s History Month but throughout the year. It’s crucial for business owners themselves since overall, women who own businesses face greater challenges of gaining fair access to venture capital. But it’s also important for the community. According to data from McKinsey, women reinvest 90 percent of their income into their families and the local community.
Norfolk has a diverse mix of woman-owned businesses that contribute to the vibrancy and success of our city as a whole. This roundup is by no means comprehensive but is a great start for learning about and visiting some successful businesses that make our city stronger and worthy of celebration.
Do you know of a woman-owned business in Norfolk we can feature here? Email us details.
Former mental health worker Starla King opened Inside Scoop in 2025, offering cereal-infused milkshakes, ice-cream waffles, sundaes and more. It’s a mix of nostalgia and creativity that defines Inside Scoop. Inside, colors pulsate and glow from murals by local artists and from cartoon clips playing for kids, and shelves lined with classic cereals. “We wanted it to be bright and happy. Something that made people smile the moment they walk in,” she says.
“I never thought I would do anything to bring it to fruition,” Crystal Sunflower owner Carol Ann Peterson says, “But that’s the thing about dreams. When they don’t leave you, they want to be manifested … and it didn’t leave me.”
The real-life result of this vision is a charming shop among the cobblestones of Botetourt St. near Cure Coffeehouse. Here, customers can align with their higher self “using vibrational sound therapy, nature’s elements and other metaphysical wares to connect deeply” with their intuition while enhancing their wellness journey.
With over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Paula Banatt began her career in 2002 with Professional Hospitality Resources. She contributed to the opening of iconic properties like the Hilton Main in Norfolk and the Cavalier on The Hill in Virginia Beach.
In 2017, seeking a fresh direction, she discovered Orangetheory Fitness and quickly fell in love with the program. By October of that year, she took the leap and signed a franchise agreement. In February 2019, she opened the doors to Orangetheory Fitness – Norfolk, where she’s had the pleasure of building a thriving fitness community. When not at the studio, Paula enjoys spending time with her husband and three dogs. She loves playing golf, traveling and exploring the local restaurant scene.
Amy Oliver is the owner of E-Bike Alley in Downtown Norfolk. The store was formerly known as Pedego Bikes Norfolk.
Inspired by a trip to Angel Island, California, Oliver opened the store near the MacArthur Center six years ago. She now offers e-bikes, scooters and one-wheels as well as rentals and tours of Norfolk.
The Best Look
Driven by talent and skill, Bunnie Indira founded The Best Look, LLC in 2017. To better serve her clients, she embarked on a journey to become a licensed esthetician, graduating from The Chrysm Institute of Esthetics in 2020.
Passionate about self-care and empowerment, Bunnie offers services, products, and events designed to help clients find balance in today’s fast-paced world. Her goal is to leave them feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to give their best.
Bunnie is a faith-driven, family-oriented woman who loves hosting uplifting events. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, practicing self-care, and creating meaningful family traditions. Her spa is located at 7938 Halprin Dr. in Norfolk.
At her boutique, A Little Something located in Ghent, Rhett Quattlebaum says, “I am eager to create a space where women can feel inspired to try new things and empowered through their clothing and gift choices.”
She is excited to showcase her favorite trendy accessories, unique gifts and fashion forward items that add flair and personality to any wardrobe and lifestyle.
She adds, “This venture isn’t just about fashion, its about enriching the local community, empowering women through style, and creating a destination that inspires and delights. I’m thrilled about this new chapter and can’t wait to welcome you to A Little Something Boutique.” It’s going to be a fantastic journey filled with style, community and exciting new finds.”
Since 2017, Freeda Steele has operated this Colley Ave.-based cat cafe in Ghent. Catnip Cafe serves as a halfway home for shelter cats in need of socialization and as a springboard for adoption. The residents of the cafe come from two local rescue organizations – Billy the Kidden out of Virginia Beach and Feral Affairs Network in Norfolk. Steele says the rescue groups select the cats that live at Catnip Cafe based on their ability to be sociable and their age, which ranges from six months and up. Read the full feature here.
Angela Tilley, a 26-year Navy veteran, found a love for pottery during a deployment in Iraq. Post-deployment, she started taking classes in Germany to learn the fine techniques of pottery as well as courses that gave her experience with porcelain and Raku (a technique involving heating pieces at 1,800 degrees F and then creating a reduction environment to achieve unexpected surface decoration on pottery).
After her time in Germany, she brought her new talent to Norfolk and opened All Hands Pottery Studio which offers classes for beginners and beyond. Tilley also offers an open studio for skilled pottery makers and students trying to perfect their practice. These classes make for the perfect team bonding activity or a great date night idea!
A Norfolkian female powerhouse, Malia Paasch owns and operates two fabulous establishments in the city. The Birch, her first business, quickly grew into one of the world’s best beer bars. It is an around-the-world beer, cider and mead bar that serves up decadent grilled cheeses.
Her second accomplishment, Four Eleven York Inn and Restaurant, is a boutique inn and fine dining restaurant nestled among the cobblestone streets of Freemason. We highly recommend a night stay in one of their beautifully decorated suites, a meal inside their palate-pleasing dining room or even just stopping by for a house-made cocktail on their outdoor, romantically-decorated patio.
Courtney White, owner and chef, combines her love of Norfolk and food through the beautifully designed and executed Blanca Food + Wine in the heart of Riverview. Courtney started her love with food while cooking in college, and now she brings her talent and passion to our city. This convivial restaurant features a fun, old world focused wine list and thoughtful plates inspired by the rustic cooking of France, Spain and Italy.
The world of wine varieties can be intimidating, but Crystal Palate owner and certified sommelier Crystal Cameron-Schaad helps take the pressure off when choosing a wine for your next date night or dinner party. Her boutique wine store and wine education center is located in Norfolk’s charming East Beach. Walls covered in wine bottles from all over the world lure you in, and Crystal’s knowledge and friendly staff will be sure to spark a newfound passion for wine.
Eleanor’s is your local intersectional feminist bookstore and bottle shop, combined in one welcoming space. The shop (801 Bousch St.) is aimed at amplifying traditionally underrepresented voices and encouraging those seeking to be a more active part of their community by offering opportunities for education and conversation.
Get Well Soon was founded by Virginia Thornton and Zahra Ahmad to cater to a need they saw in themselves and in their community. Both founders suffered anxiety and depression in silence due to major life events such as loss and relocation. After realizing that many of their friends and family experienced similar issues, both Virginia and Zahra made a commitment to creating a fun and welcoming environment for self care and healing. Get Well Soon offers a variety of services, classes, events, and more to help clients achieve healthier minds and bodies.
Anna Lorich Akers is the talented artist, designer and owner of Lorak featuring jewelry handcrafted in the heart of Norfolk. Each piece is visibly recognizable and inspired by Akers’ passion for textiles, ancient Greco Roman and Egyptian artifacts and the clean lines found in Scandinavian design. Akers is a true artisan and will help you find the perfect ring, necklace, bracelet or earrings to give extra sparkle for your special someone.
What started as a stress-relieving hobby mainly enjoyed by family and friends has turned into a uniquely delicious bakery filled with perfected buttery and fluffy pound cakes. While owner and baker Jen Anglin’s classic pound cake is decadent and highly praised, her ambitious flavors will leave you pleasantly surprised. Here you’ll find out-of-the-box flavors like coconut, cinnamon, almond, cookies and cream and even sweet potato. These velvety, mouth-watering cakes are perfect for celebrations or simply to enjoy as a treat!
Having studied at both Howard and Stanford, Sia Alexander holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and has traveled the world, training in herbology, nutrition and spiritual healing in locations like Capetown, Paris, and West Africa. Her fair trade boutique, Pure Lagos, features treasures she sources from her trips to Africa. Shoppers will find anything from brightly colored furniture and dresses to healing crystals and herbs. Read our 2024 profile of Pure Lagos owner Sia Alexander.
Because Norfolk is always evolving and changing, we want to make sure you don’t miss out on all the new talented chefs, baristas, boutique owners or pitmasters opening up businesses. Whether it’s trying an innovative dish or buying a new outfit, we’re always excited to try out the new locally-owned shops and restaurants. Although we cannot list every new entity that joins Norfolk’s culture, we encourage you to follow along with us on social media for more openings and happenings within the city!
The new year has brought a few bright spots to Norfolk, with three new businesses opening in Selden Market in December, and two new Granby St. eateries that are both generating significant buzz.
Avocargo’s menu blends the freshness of plant-based ingredients with select chicken options, offering something satisfying for both vegan and non-vegan customers. Known for bold, health-conscious flavors, Avocargo showcases the versatility of wholesome plant-based cuisine while honoring the rich culinary traditions of Caribbean and Southern cooking. (Selden Market)
Juniper & Jam brings small-batch jams, flaky baked goods, and seasonal, from-scratch lunches to the heart of Downtown Norfolk—all crafted with love, intention, and locally sourced ingredients. (Selden Market)
Popular local brewery offering a creative menu, all made in-house, with German inspired fare to satisfy all beer enthusiasts. Bring the kids. Bring an appetite. 2411 Granby St.
Mercato di Grazia is a true Italian deli and marketplace selling a curated selection of imported goods, handmade sandwiches and more. From the owners of Luce. 245 Granby St.
September 2025
Over the summer, Norfolk restaurateurs have been busy rolling out new options for locals and visitors alike. Here’s a look at a few of the recently-opened businesses in Norfolk, Va.
Located in the Railyard District off Hampton Blvd., Momo Kitchen brings a much-needed taste of Nepal to Norfolk with its signature momos. What is a momo, you ask? It’s a flavored dumpling filled with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices and served with jhol achar sauce. Originating from Nepal’s rich culinary heritage, these dumplings come in various styles—steamed, fried, or kothey—each bursting with warm, earthy spices. Whether stuffed with meat or veggies, every momo is handcrafted and paired with an iconic tomato-chili chutney for that perfect balance of heat and flavor.
Longtime Norfolk institution the Pagoda & Oriental Garden has expanded to offer eight amazing ice cream flavors on its second-story balcony that’s perfect for sunsets and people watching. Enjoy a boozy scoop or a non-alcoholic version from noon to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
Located in the former Streats location on 21st St., Vang Go Bistro brings bold flavors, fresh ingredients and a warm atmosphere together for an unforgettable dining experience. Vang Go Bistro was born from a passion for authentic flavors and a love for community. Blending traditional recipes with contemporary flair, Vang Go is a must-try dining spot.
With several successful locations around Hampton roads and one already on Military Highway, Mediterranean/American diner Ten10 recently added a location on Hampton Blvd. near the Naval base. Enjoy creamy hummus, lamb shawarma, falafels, kabobs and burgers or opt or a Philly cheesesteak. Either way, you can’t go wrong. It was also recently announced that Five Boroughs – a Colley Ave. favorite that’s owned by the same group – will now be branded as Five Boroughs: a Ten10 Experience.
Founded by Norfolk native and artist Amir Driver, the brand had their soft opening in June and celebrated its grand opening later the same month. What began as a personal merch line in 2019 has grown into a bold streetwear label rooted in creative expression and local pride. Expect exclusive shirt pressing, live events, and a fresh vibe right in the heart of Downtown.
Locals were bummed when Hair of the Dog near ODU closed, but it’s time to wipe those tears of sadness away and make room for the tears that come from eating Nashville hot chicken. Situated in the same spot as Hair of the Dog, Nash & Smashed offers fried chicken, Nashville-style sandwiches, smashed burgers and more, using halal, locally-sourced ingredients.
Norfolk native Nathan Ingram began cooking pizza on his Big Green Egg during the pandemic using his own sourdough starter that caught on with friends and neighbors. A few years later, Nathan has quit his corporate IT gig to open Sour Street Pizza at 4035 East Ocean View, Suite 400. It’s right across from Ocean View Beach and 21st Bay St. There are, of course, pizzas, but also meatballs, caesar salads and quite an impressive collection of wines and beers.
Landing Bar and Bistro
Situated inside the DoubleTree Norfolk Hotel at 155 N. Military Highway, the new Landing Bar and Bistro is an American-themes bar and bistro “focused on serving approachable cuisine with a regional touch.” The restaurant’s bar-centric design lets guests relax, conduct business or enjoy a date night. Menu items include breakfast favorites as well as an all-day menu with sandwiches, soups, salads and entrees like ribeye and grilled salmon.
Offering cold-pressed juices, mocktails, smoothies, teas and “more to uplift your health and spirit,” Granvy St. Glow Juice Bar has opened at 727 Granby St. Acai berry bowls and sea moss drinks are also available at the new shopfront.
Owner Czaja Silvasi started out making dinner rolls for family members, but quickly expanded her offerings to local farmers’ markets. Now, she’s opened a brick and mortar location in ICC Building 18 off North Center Drive near Sentara Leigh, selling quiche, pastries, bundt cakes, chicken salad, pimento cheese and other baked goodies. Her store is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The offerings at Norfolk’s Railyard District continue apace with this cafe offering “extraordinarily curated” coffees, teas, cocktails, breakfast dishes and pastries. Tuck into avocado toast, breakfast burritos and sandwiches from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily at 2330 Bowdens Ferry Rd.
With Chef Ford in the kitchen, every dish comes out a work of art at this new spot on Monticello Ave. near the Scope. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, brunch and cocktails, the atmosphere in Avenue is relaxed, with music playing for diners. Try wings, caesar salads, pizzas, stuffed chicken, Korean short ribs and a full bar serving hand-crafted cocktails.
Another addition to the Railyard District is Just Birdies, a multi-sport simulator venue offering a variety of sports experiences, tasty food and great music. Just Birdies features simulators for golf, soccer, basketball, baseball and even Zombie Dodgeball, among others. Just Birdies also has a full kitchen with burgers, dogs, shareables as well as a bar.
With one location already in Virginia Beach, this eatery recently expanded to Norfolk. The New York-style bagel cafe sits on the East end of Main St. near the courthouse and City Hall, serving breakfast and lunch. Bagels are the star here, but there’s plenty else to choose from, including a whole host of sandwiches (Philly Cheesesteak, pastrami, tuna, burgers, etc.) and full breakfast platters in a bright, spacious downtown setting.
November 2024
ILO Bistro
ILO Bistro
Situated in Freemason at 509 Botetourt St. and facing Brambleton, ILO Bistro is in the former Voila! Space. Serving seasonal favorites, local seafood, steaks, pasta, oysters and small plates, ILO is the brainchild of Chef Zack Close, formerly of Glass Light Hotel and a student of famed New York Chef Daniel Boulud. The restaurant is already packed nightly, with space at its bar a particular premium. Learn more at https://ilobistro.com/.
Courtesy Donut Dugout
Donut Dugout
After a protracted effort to open in the former Naci’s Corner Cafe location in Ghent, Donut Dugout is finally selling (and selling out daily!) donuts at 1900 Granby St. near Doumar’s. According to its website, the Donut Dugout “makes our donuts fresh every day. From cake style to light n’ fluffy yeast.” The baseball-themed donut shop is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. until sellout. Learn more on the shop’s Facebook page.
MacArthur General Store
Formerly a longtime downtown pharmacy, MacArthur General Store generally retains the same setup it previously had in is 261 Granby St. spot, with a renewed focus on general household commodities from vitamins to toothpaste and chips and sodas. There is also a section devoted to organically-grown produce. Learn more at https://www.macarthurgeneralstore.com/.
Wands Books
When owner Morgan Wood meets a fellow book lover, he often quips that “we’re cut from the same cloth: buckram.” Indeed, you’ll find many volumes bound in the soft fabric along with paperbacks, hardbacks, manga and more in this new artist loft space at 2501 Fawn St. Flanked by The Annex performing hall and set squarely at the intersections of Lindenwood, Old Hunterville and the Railroad District, the area is home to photography and recording studios, makeup artists and a glass blower. Read our profile of Wands Books.
King’s Philly
If there’s one thing a town can’t have enough of, it’s shops serving up genuine Philly cheesesteaks. Which makes King’s Philly warmly welcomed on the Norfolk dining scene. Serving up classic Philly beef sandwiches, loaded mac and cheese, Korean fried chicken, fried okra and other surprises, King’s is located at 4295 E. Little Creek Rd. Learn more at https://kingsphilly.com/menu-restaurant/.
Honeysuckle Cafe
Good things are sometimes found off the beaten path. That’s exactly the case with Honeysuckle Cafe, tucked away at 813 W. 39th St. behind a 7-Eleven near the ODU portion of Colley Ave. The restaurant places a huge emphasis on community engagement and collaboration, partnering with chefs, artists and artisans to showcase some of the best food Norfolk has to offer. Honeysuckle’s lunch offerings were recently the subject of a very favorable review in the Virginian-Pilot, and its salads, sandwiches wraps and brunch are not to be missed. Learn more at https://honeysucklenfk.com/.
Young entrepreneur Henry Smith started Smashers as a food truck when he was only 17. Now at 20, he’s opened his first brick and mortar location at 1551 Premium Outlets Blvd. in Norfolk. Serving up smashburgers, fries, hot dogs, grilled cheese, milkshakes and chopped cheese sandwiches, Smashers invites burger lovers to “Come Get Smashed” seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Teriyaki and sushi restaurant in Ghent, offering rolls, bento boxes, teriyaki meals, soups, salads and Asian appetizers. Located directly next door to the Naro Expanded Cinema at 1501 Colley Ave. Hours: Monday Closed, Tues.-Thur. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
This 460-seat music venue at 2500 Church Street will host live music and community events. A joint venture between LAVA presents and Young Veterans Brewing Company, the Annex also features a kitchen and bar. Musicians set to perform in fall 2024 include Matthew Logan Vasquez, Kishi Bashi, Red Weather, Frankie Cosmos, Slater and more. See the full lineup.
Owner Danielle Dawley recently opened this 500-square foot showroom of “on trend, high-end consignment furniture and home decor.” Redefinery bills itself as environmentally focused and economically sound. Located at 216 W. 25th Street in a former gym.
The 757’s newest food truck is open every day from 11 a.m. at 3039 E. Ocean View Ave., and stays open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays for late-night cravings. Menu items include street tacos (try the al pastor!), burritos and quesadilla.
Located in MacArthur Mall, 757 Creative ReUse Center is a nonprofit dedicated to “providing accessible and affordable second-hand arts and crafts supplies, while reducing waste and promoting reuse. It also offers several upcoming classes including crocheting, tote bag creation, sewing, quilting and more. See the full schedule.
Located at 1903 Shoop Ave. off Tidewater in the Lafayette-Winona neighborhood, Norfolk Smokehouse and Seafood Company offers homestyle meals with mac and cheese, collards, smoked brisket, meats and seafood. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
Brandon Brinkley brings local’s favorite Norfolk Candle to Selden Market (208 E. Main St.) after operating previously on Granby Street and in pop-up markets. Norfolk Candle is housed in the former location of CLTRE. | Vegan Joint, which will focus on its Virginia Beach location going forward. Brinkley’s shop features sells candles, flags, greeting cards, sweaters, scarves, beanies and a full range of PRIDE collection items.
Pastry lovers breathed a collective sigh of relief when La Brioche finally reopened in its new Colley Ave. digs in late June. The Parisian cafe is known for its hand-made baguettes, croissants, pies and sandwiches, a tradition that will carry on in Ghent after a move from the NEON District this spring.
Right in time for the dog days of summer, Blyss Ice Cream and Deserts opened at 112 Granby St. in early June, serving ice cream cones, cups, sundaes and milkshakes in a variety of flavors. Vegan options available.
Directly next door to Blyss at 116 Granby St. you’ll find Rolled Up, a new eggroll joint serving some seriously unique flavors. At its June opening, the Asian-inspired eatery was crafting the following eggroll flavors:
Plaza del Sol may be gone, but Gran Maya is here to cheer us all up. With a successful restaurant in Virginia Beach, the Mexican eatery is expanding into the Ghent Market Shops at 2200 Colonial Ave. in Ghent (with a tease on its website that it will soon open a location on Big Bethel Road in Hampton). The menu includes traditional favorites such as fajitas, quesadillas, burritos and a visually stunning Pina Rellena made with a half of a pineapple.
Found at 4214 E. Little Creek Rd. near the East Ocean View Dirty Buffalo, Sloppy Sailors serves cheesesteaks, sandwiches, burgers, dogs, sloppy fries, salads, shakes and desert. Learn more here.
May 2024
Potted: Houseplant Cafe
Part cafe, part plant shop, Potted combines two great things under one roof: brewed tea and houseplants. Situated inside Selden Market at 208 E. Main St., Potted is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. except on Tuesdays, when it’s closed. The staff crafts milk, boba and more traditional teas, and also sells loose leaf tea for home brewing. The opposite wall features a small, but carefully curated selection of houseplants. Follow them on Instagram.
508 CraftHouse
Visitors to the Chelsea District have been eagerly awaiting the grand opening of 508 Crafthouse, which happened in late April. With dishes ranging from Oysters Rockefeller and jerked quail to bourbon lamb chops and scallop gnochi, the menu looks extremely promising, as does the weekly Sunday brunch. Located at 508 Orapax St., 508 Crafthouse is open Tuesday through Saturday 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Follow them on Instagram.
District Taco
Fans of this D.C.-based regional taco chain, rejoice! Found at 2700 Hampton Blvd. across from the up-and-coming Railyard project, this taco joint features the familiar setup found at places like Chipotle, Qdoba and Moe’s, but boasts that its dishes are made fresh from scratch daily. See the menu here.
Slow and Steady Bike Goods
Slow and Steady Bike Goods, located at 2406 Colley Ave. in a former bike shop space, is the newcomer to the city’s burgeoning cycling scene. Owners Joey and Fred have set out to create a “unique and inclusive space that serves as a hub for bike enthusiasts and the community. The shop offers everything from basic flat repairs to premium tune-ups with a quick turnaround. They also host several monthly rides, the details of which are posted at their shop and on social media. Follow them on Instagram.
Virginia ABC (RailYard Branch)
One final Railyard update to add this month: Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control has added a new, clean-as-a-whistle location to load up on libations at 1225 W. 25th St. The new Store expands the choices for those living in Ghent, West Ghent, Chelsea and the ODU neighborhoods. It celebrated its grand opening April 15.
Operated by husband and wife partner Gabriele and Nicole Pianezze, Amale Tre Focacceria crafts mouthwatering foccacias, imported meats and cheeses and other Italian delights in Selden Market. Also serving homemade breads, pasts, sauces, deserts and more. You may know the pair from their popular La Cucina di Sophia food truck. A steady stream of customers at their kiosk tells you everything you need to know about the quality of their offerings.
From $20. Get on board for an approximately 50 minute to one hour guided bus tour of Naval Station Norfolk – the world’s largest Naval installation. Our tour guide will provide a “Navy-approved” tour that includes the homes of the 1907 Jamestown Exposition, Chambers Field Air Station, the ships of the fleet and much more.
Camille Sheppard-Parrish has recently moved Crave Bakery from its Edinburgh location to the former Chocollage space at Boush and College in the Historic Freemason District. The bakery serves up coffee, pastries, ice cream and a full breakfast and lunch menu including croissants, toasts, waffles and more. 200 College Place.
Located in the original Brothers restaurant space at 200 E. Plume St. in Downtown Norfolk, Ordinaire serves up a coastal Gullah-inspired menu. Appetizers include fried pickled okra, fried deviled eggs, boiled peanuts and entrees such as shrimp and grits, lamb chops, chicken and collar alfredo and more.
This pop-up art studio and workspace began as a pop-up in Selden Market at 208 E. Main St. The concept is simple: pop in any time for simple free flow crafting like creating bookmarks, bracelets, paintings and more. Sign up for guided workshops by yourself or with a group. Also carries local art, jewelry and more, created by the owner and other talented artists. Now, the store is expanding to a full-fledged storefront.
Slated to open mid-March in the ambitious Railyard at Lambert’s Point project is regional chain Biscuit Belly at 2401 Hampton Blvd. The eatery promises a “brunch menu filled with bold new twists on Southern favorites.”
Also found in the Railyard at Lambert’s Point, StretchLab offers “one-on-one, customized assisted stretching sessions. The stretches are given on our custom designed benches by Flexologists who will customize your stretch to your needs and talk you through your stretches.” Find it at 1225 W. 25th St.
Slated to open in early April 2024, Cooking with Greens is operated by Derak and Anita Green (get it?). What began as a Facebook page has transformed into a storefront in Selden Market where the Greens will sell seasonings, cookbooks, kitchenware and more. 208 E. Main St.
If you’ve spent any time downtown, you’ve likely seen F.R.E.D. roaming the streets, offering Free Rides Every Day to visitors. Downtown Norfolk recently unveiled a new, fancified battery-operated F.R.E.D. unit that transports up to 8 passengers with confort. Call 757-478-7233 to hitch a ride.
Like F.R.E.D., Victory Rover has been a downtown staple for many years, but it’s worth noting that March 2024 marked the return of these ever-popular naval base harbor cruises at the Waterside. As things heat up, don’t miss the chance to see Mermaid City from a different vantage point – aboard a 149-passenger ship.
As part of its “Love is in the Air” campaign, Norfolk International Airport recently unveiled its newest LOVEwork sign that features an Augmented Reality (AR) experience for those who scan the QR code. Check it out; it’s pretty neat!
If there’s one thing February in Norfolk is known for, it’s the abundance of live stage performances offered up this time of year. From “Chicago” to “Shucked” to a thriller at Wells Theatre, there’s a lot of playbills to collect this month. And there’s even a pair of classic movies accompanied by live orchestras. Here’s a look at some of our favorites.
When the dangerously handsome Johnny Blood’s life is on the line, he must put his fate into the hands of a colorful cast of characters including a mysterious sheriff, an eccentric priest, a narcissistic governor, a saloon girl gone good, and a nun out of the habit. Together, they face uncharted territory as laws are broken and hearts are won. Before the sun sets, will they be able to rise up and pull off the greatest act yet, or will Johnny be left hanging?
Virginia Stage Company presents Wait Until Dark By Frederick Knott Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher. In a 1944 Greenwich Village apartment, a blind woman is threatened by criminals in search of a very “special” doll. As the climax builds, Susan discovers that her blindness just might be the key to her escape, if she can manage to stall her tormentors until dark. This masterfully constructed thriller moves from one moment of suspense to another as it builds toward a heart-stopping finale. Directed by Mark Shanahan.
When the smoke clears, only truth is left standing. Set in Richmond, VA, Intelligence is inspired by a gripping true story of espionage, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom. In the shadows of the Civil War, Mary Jane Bowser, an enslaved woman turned operative, joins a Union spy ring, unveiling secrets about the Confederacy and her own identity. Packed with riveting drama, powerful music and dynamic dance, Intelligence will keep you on the edge of your seat.
SHUCKED is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the Grammy® Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”), and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater.
Virginia Arts Festival presents Attucks Jazz Series René Marie vocalist. GRAMMY Award-nominated vocalist René Marie returns to the Attucks Jazz Club, enchanting fans with her unique style that incorporates folk, R&B, country and classical elements. Warrenton, Virginia-born, Marie’s music is deeply personal and artistically superb.
When Niko Moon first emerged with his triple-platinum smash “GOOD TIME,” the Texas-born singer/songwriter lit up the country scene with his larger-than-life energy and heartfelt message of radical positivity. On his latest LP AMERICAN PALM, the Nashville-based artist takes that mission to a whole new level and immerses the audience in the idyllic landscape that never fails to lift his spirits: the sun-soaked serenity and mind-blowing splendor of the beach.
Fans can expect an unforgettable evening headlined by Keith Sweat, the award-winning pioneer of New Jack Swing whose career spans more than three decades and includes over 25 million records sold along with Billboard chart-topping hits such as “Twisted” and “Nobody.”
Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer-songwriter Joe, known for “I Wanna Know” and “All the Things (Your Man Won’t Do),” will add his smooth sound to the mix, while Dru Hill, the multi-platinum group behind chart-topping hits including “In My Bed” and “Never Make a Promise,” will bring their signature sound. Multi-platinum star and Grammy-nominated Ginuwine rounds out the show with enduring favorites such as “Pony,” “Differences,” and “So Anxious.”
The great Peter Falk narrates this romantic tale of the beautiful maiden, Buttercup, and her one true love, a young farm hand named Westley. After he’s captured by a ruthless pirate and presumed dead, Buttercup’s unhappy marriage to the horrible Prince Humperdinck seems inevitable. But before the wedding can take place, she’s kidnapped by three outlaws and it’s up to a mysterious Man in Black to come to her rescue…
Now for the first time, composer Mark Knopfler’s unforgettable score has been specially arranged for symphony orchestra. Missing this cinematic concert experience would be inconceivable!
A pair of games sees the Greensboro Gargoyles visiting the Norfolk Admirals at Scope Arena on Valentine’s weekend. The Saturday game begins at 7:05 p.m. and the Sunday afternoon game has a puck drop at 3:05 p.m.
Illustration of Stickman Kids Showing their Gifts for Valentines Day from Balloons to Cake, Chocolates, Flowers and Card
It’s the sweetest time of year, and we’re here to make sure you know the ins and outs of celebrating Valentine’s Day in Norfolk! From bird watching and a trip to the zoo to dinner and cruises, there are plenty of events to celebrate the day of hearts with your Valentine or Galentine group! See our full rundown of Valentine’s Day 2026 in Norfolk, Virginia.
Chelsea Handler is a comedian, television host, and seven-time New York Times best-selling author whose humor and candor have established her as one of the most celebrated voices in entertainment and pop culture. After a strong seven-year run as the host of E!’s top-rated Chelsea Lately, a tenure in which she was the only female late-night talk show host on-air, she launched her documentary series Chelsea Does, followed by her talk show Chelsea on Netflix in 2016. She has penned seven New York Times best-selling books, six of which have reached #1, including her seventh and most recent book I’ll Have What She’s Having, published February 2025.
Remember putting on an album and listening from start to finish? Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony recreates Pink Floyd’s iconic album “The Wall” live in its entirety; note for note, sound for sound.
Over the past ten years, the Black Jacket Symphony has performed over 40 classic rock albums, bringing an incredible night of entertainment to over a million music lovers across the US. The group of hand-picked musicians changes based upon the album being performed—and no sonic detail is overlooked, with the musicians doing whatever it takes to reproduce the album. It’s a full night of rock and roll magic—plus a visual experience unlike any other. Fans across the country flock to their shows—and once you see one, you won’t miss another!
Ballet Virginia, Coastal Virginia’s ballet company, presents contemporary and classical works by Artistic Director Lydia Roberts Coco, with a focus on hope and unity. Ms. Coco, a former principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, will tap into the diverse cultural roots of the Hampton Roads community. Join us for inspiring dance with soulful music featuring our company, BVII, exciting guest artists, and a world premiere!
CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen.
In the whirlwind of Chicago’s Jazz Age, two of the Cook County Jail’s most notorious murderesses—vaudeville star Velma Kelly and chorus girl Roxie Hart—become fierce rivals as they compete for headlines amidst a media frenzy.
Broadway’s longest-running musical has been razzle-dazzling audiences for over 29 years, and after more than 10,000 performances, 6 Tony Awards®, 2 Olivier Awards, and a Grammy®, we’re just getting started.
Considered Europe’s best, this storied big band has a rich history of powerhouse performances and a superstar roster of past guest artists including Miles Davis, Stan Getz, Joe Henderson and more. In their Virginia Arts Festival debut performance, they are joined by one of today’s most sought-after and style-setting jazz vocalists, the always-thrilling Cécile McLorin Salvant. “Rightly considered one of the greatest jazz singers of her generation” (Rolling Stone), Salvant is a three-time Grammy-winning vocalist, composer, and fearless storyteller known for her electrifying interpretations and genre-defying artistry. Mark your calendar for an unforgettable night of jazz!
Introducing the Harry Potter™ Film Concert Series. For the first time ever, audiences can relive the magic of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban™ set to the music of a live symphony orchestra performing John Williams’ unforgettable score.
Curated by ConcernedApe, Symphony of Seasons features a 35-piece orchestra performing the most memorable music from the game, and a screen above the stage playing gameplay footage plus original content created exclusively for this tour.
Concert-goers can look forward to hearing the game’s most cherished songs as they watch their farm grow throughout the seasons and explore some of the valley’s most memorable locations, from Pelican Town to the Skull Cavern, Ginger Island to Calico Desert, the Submarine to the Wizard’s Tower and much more.
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