Tucked into a narrow slice of Granby St., PJay’s Kitchen stands as testament to one man’s passion, curiosity and natural ability to deliver powerful flavors. Over the past year, Owner Phillip James has morphed a small space into a culinary haven, earning coveted five-star Google ratings and a loyal following.
James’ journey to restaurateur diverges from the usual script. Instead of attending culinary school or working as a line cook, James spent seven years in the Army. After that, he spent nearly a decade working as a contractor and DOD employee in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Turkey.
“I lived in Maryland for a while, dipped my toes into the dining scene there,” James recounts. “But then, another deployment, and eventually, I found myself in Norfolk.”
Initially, James’ plan was to open a food truck. But when a small storefront became available, James saw an opportunity. “I didn’t want to go too big,” he says. “This space felt perfect. We opened in January 2024, and last year, we did pretty well.”
The menu at PJay’s is a vibrant mix of street-inspired dishes, carefully chosen to fill a void in the local culinary landscape.
“I wanted to offer something different,” James says. “No fried seafood, no po’boys on the block (of Granby). I looked for what was missing and drew inspiration from there.”
The result is a menu that boasts mouthwatering oxtail, perfectly executed fried seafood baskets, and soon, a lunch menu featuring po’boys and tacos. Rasta pasta and jerk chicken and shrimp are also fan favorites.
“It’s a micro-diner experience,” James says, offering 14 seats inside and 16 outside.
James’s culinary journey is largely self-taught, fueled by a lifelong love of cooking and a desire to learn.
“I grew up with my grandmother, picking up things subconsciously,” he says. “When I joined the Army, I cooked in the barracks. Some of it wasn’t good, but I was trying.”
He credits his mentor, JR Robinson of D.C.’s KitchenCray, with shaping his approach to the business.
“When I started taking this seriously, I reached out to him,” James says. “He’s been instrumental in my growth, teaching me about the business side, understanding margins, and cutting costs without compromising quality.”
Despite the success of PJay’s, James continues to work his corporate job in satellite communications. “We exceeded the goals we set for ourselves,” he says of PJay’s, “but I still have my other job.”
The influence of his mother and grandmother is revealed in every dish. “They’re from a culture known for not measuring ingredients,” James explains. “They just had it honed. I’m trying to figure out if I should write those recipes down.” He also dreams of one day legitimizing his grandmother’s legacy of selling food and alcohol.
Key to PJay’s success is Tamila Spruill, James’s childhood friend and the backbone of the operation. “She’s been here from the beginning,” James says. “She handles things without me even being contacted. She’s consistent, on time, and a thriving force for PJay’s. I appreciate her for coming on this journey with me.”
Each plate James and Spruill serve us tells a story: of hard work, grit, and the unwavering pursuit of flavor. Not convinced? Just take it from those who’ve eaten there. Currently, PJay’s enjoys a coveted 4.9 star rating on Google with more than 476 reviews and counting.
Featuring Tony Award-winning Hit Broadway Musicals, Drama, Comedy, and more!
Norfolk, VA-Virginia Stage Company is thrilled to announce a new season of musicals, thrillers, classics, and a world premiere! The 47th season from Hampton Roads’ leading professional theatre company begins in September at the historic Wells Theatre in Norfolk.
We kick the season off with a bang with Norfolk State University Theatre Company’s All-New Professional Series with our co-production of Ain’t Misbehavin’. The joint is jumpin’ as five actors croon, wail, strut and dance their way through the songs of legendary jazz musician, “Fats” Waller. Get ready for your toes to be tappin’ and your leg shakin’ with Ain’t Misbehavin’ directed by Professor Anthony Mark Stockard. September 3 – 21, 2025.
Audiences will be transported back to a time with a fresh and funny take on a treasured classic, in Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Emma. Emma Woodhouse is a clever, educated and energetic woman who prides herself on her matchmaking abilities. But where Emma goes, screwball comedy follows! October 22 – November 9, 2025.
Ring in the holidays with two Christmas classics, A Merry Little Christmas Carol and A Sherlock Carol, both by Mark Shanahan. A Merry Little Christmas Carol is one of Hampton Roads’ most heartfelt holiday traditions. And returning for its 2nd year is A Sherlock Carol, VSC’s newest tradition. In this engaging tale, Moriarty is dead and Sherlock is a haunted man. Will the untimely death of Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge bring the Great Detective out of his self imposed-retirement to solve this Dickens of a Christmas Case? A Merry Little Christmas Carol and A Sherlock Carol run in rep, December 3 – 28, 2025.
In a pulse-pounding thriller, a blind woman is threatened by criminals inside her Greenwich Village apartment in Wait Until Dark by Frederick Knott. Susan soon discovers that her blindness is the key to her escape… if she can stall her tormentors until dark. This edge-of-your-seat drama moves from one moment of suspense to another as it builds towards a heart-stopping conclusion. January 28 – February 15, 2026.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat lends the brilliance of Andrew Lloyd Weber to the season! This musical reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph is packed with magical adventure, beguiling characters and a brilliant score full of catchy songs–a treat to share with family and friends, March 14 -29, 2026.
Capping the new season is the world premiere of Malcom X & Redd Foxx Washing Dishes at Jimmy’s Chicken Shack in Harlem. In 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 new play blends sharp humor with raw humanity, revealing the laughter, struggle, and brotherhood that shaped two legends. April 8 – 26, 2026.
Tickets for the 2025-2026 season are on sale now by subscription only. Subscription options include fixed-seat packages at special savings, which allow patrons to keep the same great seats for every show; or a flexible theatre-on-demand option. Subscription benefits include discounts on every ticket, invitations to special insider events and more. More information can be found at vastage.org/subscribe or by calling the Virginia Stage Company Box Office at (757) 627-1234 Monday through Friday from 10am – 5pm.
April; that most transitional of seasons when the chill gives way to warmth, when rain is a welcome sight and when festival season kicks off in Norfolk. Here’s a look at some of our favorite events slated for April 2025.
It’s last call for Norfolk Admirals action, as the city’s ECHL team takes on Reading Royals at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday, April 9; then a two-game home-stand to close out the season against South Carolina Stingrays at 7:05 p.m. April 11-12. Playoff games would follow throughout April if applicable, but don’t miss your last guaranteed chance to see the on-ice action.
Catch all the NCAA tournament hoops action on 30+ TVs in the Market, a 20×16-foot TV wall and more than 70 other TVs throughout the District so you don’t miss a second of the action. Food and drink specials offered, VIP packages available.
Seamlessly blending illusion, acrobatics, magic, and whimsy, MOMIX sends audiences flying down the rabbit hole in Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, ALICE, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice in Wonderland. “I don’t intend to retell the whole Alice story” Pendleton says, “but to use it as a taking off point for invention.” Join this dazzling company on a mind-bending adventure, as Alice encounters time-honored characters including the undulating Caterpillar, a lobster quadrille, frenzied White Rabbits, a mad Queen of Hearts, and a variety of other surprises. Filled with visual splendor and startling creative movement, Alice reveals that nothing in MOMIX’s world is as it seems!
Critics, fans and fellow comedians agree: Brian Regan is one of the most respected comedians in the country with Vanity Fair calling Brian, “The funniest stand-up alive,” and Entertainment Weekly calling him, “Your favorite comedian’s favorite comedian.” Having built his 30-plus year career on the strength of his material alone, Brian’s non-stop theater tour continuously fills the most beautiful venues across North America, visiting close to 100 cities each year.
Pride & Prejudice & Dragons transports you to the drawing rooms of Jane Austen’s England, where regency balls and courtship blend with quests and dragons. With a roll of the dice, the story unfolds in unexpected ways — will Elizabeth charm Mr. Darcy or leave him behind to battle mythical creatures?
Unleash your inner wild child during our adults-only evening at the Zoo! Trails and exhibits will be open late* and there will be drinks, a DJ, food trucks, and local vendors alongside yard games and a bounce house to enjoy in our Event Field. To celebrate springtime, our education team and community vendors will host plant-themed trivia, scavenger hunts and more for prizes! Event is Ages 21+ and takes place rain or shine.
Grab your lederhosen, practice your best Maria von Trapp impression and get ready to enjoy Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long! Join us in your city for a screening of the smash-hit 1965 movie musical in glorious, full-screen technicolor, complete with onscreen lyrics. Based on the amazing true story of The Trapp Family Singers, The Sound of Music is a cinematic landmark and winner of five Academy Awards®, including Best Picture. Starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, the film features timeless songs by Rodgers & Hammerstein including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” and more.
For the past decade, Flatland Cavalry has built a reputation as “one of the most dynamic presences in country music” (Rolling Stone) with their signature “Easy on the ears, heavy on the heart” sound. In 2024, the sextet celebrated 10 years together with Flatland Forever, an acclaimed album that pays tribute to their journey, revisiting fan favorites while introducing new songs that showcase how far they’ve come.
Led by nine-time GRAMMY winner (with an astonishing 32 nominations!) and winner of the Pulitzer Prize and National Medal of the Arts Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra is the emblem of jazz for the United States and the world – and a swingin’ great time for audiences. With veteran and virtuoso musicians bound by years of performing and touring together and an abiding love and respect for the art form, this legendary band is “an immense and perfectly balanced engine,” says the Guardian, UK.
Nauticis celebrates 81 years of history aboard the mighty Battleship Wisconsin. Enjoy special activities, exclusive tours, and hands-on experiences in honor of this iconic vessel. Tours, talks and ice cream and a chess workshop will be offered.
Try some of the best beer & wine in town, all at Waterside District, for a Veteran’s Day Weekend celebration like no other. Enjoy specially curated exhibitors, including top breweries and wineries, as they share with you some of the best craft beers, wines, and more. All tickets include unlimited sampling of over 40 beers, multiple food trucks, live music including karaoke, DJs, and more.
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival. Composer and violinist Jessie Montgomery has won accolades across the U.S. and around the world, creating vibrant works that engage audiences and are defining a new classical canon. As she completes her residency as the Virginia Arts Festival Composer in Residence, Montgomery will curate and perform in a program that includes her own chamber music and works by her contemporaries. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear this important composer’s engaging works!
Co-presented with Tidewater Classical Guitar and Virginia Arts Festival. With a repertoire that ranges from Bach to bluegrass, this dazzlingly gifted ensemble plays to sold-out houses around the world, bringing “unrivaled joy, technical élan, and a questing spirit” (Los Angeles Times) to every performance. Their musical appetites encompass music from every age and nearly every corner of the earth, and “the effect is astonishing. If it’s true that variety is the very spice of life, it follows that the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet is a habañero chili pepper” (The Berkshire Edge).
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival. Known globally for his mastery of the tabla—“the drum with a thousand voices”—Zakir Hussain has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Yo-Yo Ma, Béla Fleck, Van Morrison, and George Harrison. For this Festival return engagement, Hussain has gathered a dream team of percussionists representing music and cultures from around the world, including Indian sarangi player Sabir Khan; Colombian-born jazz master Tupac Mantilla; balafon, barra, djembe, and conga player Melissa Hié, and master of the dholak and tabla, Navin Sharma. A global journey in sound!
Climb aboard the Virginia Zoo Express and take a *photo with the Easter Bunny! Easter train rides will be offered on April 19th from 11am-2pm. Also enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt at the train station at 12pm; eggs will include candies, train punch cards, and coupons for the Virginia Zoo Gift Shop! We encourage guests to sign up for the Easter Egg Hunt at the train station before 12pm.
For centuries, the cry “Tattoo” echoed throughout Europe — first a call by to innkeepers to “Turn off the taps!” — and then as the name for a grand display of military bands and drill teams. The legendary Tattoos of Edinburgh and Nova Scotia are now rivaled by the largest Tattoo in the U.S. — our own Virginia International Tattoo. Mounting a mighty spectacle that changes every year, the Virginia International Tattoo summons more than 1,000 performers including fife and drum corps, bagpipers, military bands, precision drill teams, and performing ensembles ranging from step dancers to motorcycle stunt drivers.
The only parade in the U.S. to honor NATO features over 100 parade units including U.S. and international bands, military units, community groups and floats representing ever NATO Member Nation! The Parade is free and open to the public, but reserved seating is available for purchase.
The NoCo (North Colley) Spring Wine Fest gives you the opportunity to taste and order wines for all of your Spring and Summer festivities. With 40 different wines spanning the globe, you will not find more selections to impress your family and friends this season. Wine professionals will complete the experience by offering expert recommendations.
Award-winning journalist Bob Woodruff has covered the most influential stories and breaking news around the globe for more than 30 years. He has reported from the White House to war zones and conflicts, from some of the planet’s most remote areas to some of the most prominent events. Bob and Lee founded the Bob Woodruff Foundation to assist post-9/11 injured service members, veterans, and their families heal from the physical and silent wounds of war. To date, the non-profit foundation has invested more than $20 million, funding and shaping innovative programs across the country that are helping veterans successfully integrate back into their communities.
April 29, 2025 Christ and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
Co-presented with Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and Virginia Arts Festival. Dubbed “the rock stars of Renaissance vocal music” by The New York Times and “one of the UK’s greatest cultural exports” by BBC Radio 3, this legendary ensemble has perhaps done more than any other group to establish sacred vocal music of the Renaissance as one of the great repertoires of Western classical music. Norfolk’s historic Christ & St. Luke’s Church makes the perfect setting for their beautiful sound, which summons the echoes of the past and reveals new delights in works by contemporary composers.
Norfolk’s Perry Glass Studio, part of the Chrysler Museum of Art, is ready to show the world its highly anticipated expansion, a $30 million project that triples its size and significantly enhances its capabilities. The newly renovated 32,000 square-foot space at 245 Grace St. in Downtown Norfolk will help elevate the studio’s position as a premier glass art destination and expand opportunities for both local and visiting artists as well as the community.
The recent expansion, roughly six years in the making, helps the studio deal with previous capacity constraints while allowing for a broader range of programming, said Ashley Grove Mars, Director of Communications for the Chrysler Museum.
“We were really getting to capacity with our partner classes,” said Mars. “This expansion allows us to welcome more students, visiting artists and offer diverse educational experiences.”
First impressions are everything, and visitors to the Perry Glass Studio will be wowed by the state-of-the-art hot shop and theater, now capable of seating 200, equipped with cutting-edge lighting, sound, and monitor systems. The new facility also features dedicated classrooms, metal, mold and wood shops, along with a catering kitchen, creating a one-stop artistic hub.
Planners have worked hard to continue the Perry’s commitment to accessibility with free daily noon demonstrations, allowing anyone to get an up-close look at the intense process of glassblowing. The expansion was also undertaken to draw a wider range of artists, with rental spaces and specialized equipment available for independent projects and visiting professionals.
To celebrate, the Chrysler Museum is hosting a grand opening weekend, March 29-30, 2025, offering a blend of artistic showcase and community engagement.
Saturday, March 29th: “Glass & Glitz: Grand Gathering and Auction,” is a ticketed gala ($129 per person) featuring live glass blowing demonstrations by renowned artists Dante Marioni and Corey Pemberton, alongside musical performances by Kishi Bashi and BJ Griffin. It promises to be a night of artistic spectacle and celebration.
Sunday, March 30th: “El Día de los Niños,” is a free, family-friendly festival from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This vibrant block party will feature live performances, hands-on glass-making demonstrations, an art carnival and activities inspired by the “Oaxaca Central: Contemporary Mexican Printmaking” exhibition at the neighboring Chrysler Museum. Visitors will enjoy performances by the De La Torre brothers, Einar and Jamex, who are visiting artists from Oaxaca, Mexico.
Designed to get visitors into the fun, the “Oaxaca Central Passport” program invites the community to explore local creative experiences. Participants can collect stamps at various events and partner locations, redeeming them for rewards like tickets to “Ignite: Ink” or limited-edition prints.
Designed by Norfolk-based WPA Architects, the expansion includes an inviting outdoor terrace, providing additional workspace during pleasant weather. The new entrance, now facing the museum, enhances accessibility and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Already open to the public, the Perry Glass Studio will continue to offer ongoing hot glass classes, studio sales and ever-popular “Glass After Dark” events, ensuring it remains a top cultural destination in Norfolk.
Several years ago, Carol Ann Peterson, owner of The Crystal Sunflower in the Freemason District, was in deep meditation when a vision came to her.
A civilian geologist with the federal government by day, Peterson had a “dream” about what she wanted to manifest into her life at the start of 2009.
“I saw this beautiful apothecary Harry Potter-style store and I thought, ‘well, that would be rather interesting.’”
Getting Metaphysical on Freemason
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.
What began as a small outpost along Bute St. expanded during the height of COVID offering tarot readings, herbs, teas, candles, journals, books, crystals and other tools for those seeking higher meaning in their lives.
“I never thought I would do anything to bring it to fruition,” 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.”
Inside, the store is divided into four sections: water (teas, aromatherapy, essential oils), fire (candles) earth (crystals and minerals) and air (incense). Interspersed among these sections are handmade journals, banned books and home decor. The shop may be small, but the sections are packed with enough treasures to encourage repeat visits.
Peterson, whose day job involves managing petroleum compliance for the entire Mid-Atlantic region, says living between two worlds is just fine with her.
“It’s a good balance. I’m between the science side and the ‘woo woo’ side,” she says. “Science is catching up to the things we know are beneficial like meditation, journaling and self-care.”
Visitors can enjoy regular events such as readings, incense making, vision board creation and sound bath meditations, and the shop is open to everyone – not just those of the New Age bent, Peterson emphasizes.
“I love to see people bringing their children here and we’re starting to see more men come in here. We are learning that men need healing, too,” she says. “This place is for people who need to connect with themselves and their spirituality. It’s really an all-inclusive store and we try to make everyone feel welcome.”
The Crystal Sunflower is at 507 ½ Botetourt St. and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Follow the shop on Instagram.
NORFOLK, Va. – The Norfolk Tides begin their baseball season on March 28, and fans heading to games this season should plan their travel ahead of time.
With limited parking available due to casino construction, Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) encourages fans to take the Tide light rail and Elizabeth River Ferry to get to Harbor Park.
HRT, the City of Norfolk and the Norfolk Tides are teaming up again this season to provide free rides on The Tide light rail for every home game this season. Complimentary rides are available two hours before and after each game. Fans can show their ticket for that day’s game for a free ride on light rail to and from the stadium.
New this season, fans coming from the western portions of Hampton Roads can take the ferry from North Landing in Portsmouth for free to and from the Harbor Park Landing for every game. Free rides are available only to the Harbor Park Landing, not to Waterside Landing.
Ferry service runs every 30 minutes beginning one hour before game time until one hour after the game ends. Parking for the ferry in Portsmouth is free at city garages after 5 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends. The closest parking to North Landing may be found at the Harbor Court, Water Street, and Middle Street parking garages.
There are new parking options in Norfolk for those driving to the games. This year, MacArthur South Garage will be free for game patrons. The garage is just two light rail stops, or a roughly 15-minute walk, from Harbor Park. Fans parking at the garage can catch The Tide at MacArthur Station for the free light rail ride to the stadium.
Dominion Tower Garage, a privately owned parking facility, also will offer game-day parking for $6. Those parking at Dominion Tower can either walk up the Elizabeth River Trail to the stadium or take The Tide at Civic Plaza for a short ride to Harbor Park.
When leaving the stadium, fans using light rail are urged to be patient and observe lines that will be set up outside the stadium, near the main entrance. One line will be for eastbound Tide light rail traffic in the direction of Newtown Road with the other for westbound travel toward EVMC/Fort Norfolk Station.
HRT reminds fans to be safe around tracks. Use designated crosswalks and sidewalks to reach the station and never stand on or near the tracks.
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.
“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 Ghent shop 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.
Lindsay Sims started Maison Soleil as a fair trade boutique aimed at bringing people together and empowering women. Here you’ll find ethical and sustainable fashion benefiting the women who created the pieces. You can also shop for home decor, coffee, candles, garden and plant accessories, books and journals, gifts, greeting cards and more.
For 14 years, Becky Cohen found passion in designing floral arrangements and sharing her obsession with plants through a floral design studio and flower farm. Now, she’s able to combine her passion for plants with her love of beautifully crafted goods into one Norfolk-based lifestyle shop, Nine Twenty-Two. Here you’ll find gorgeous planters and accessories; home goods like serving platters, bowls and boards; a specialized line of wellness and beauty products, baby items and more. Plus, they offer workshops throughout the year aimed at adding inspiration to the places we live and love.
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.
When you’re short on time, exploring Norfolk via the Elizabeth River Trail is an efficient and scenic way to get the lay of the land. Add in an Ebike and you can explore the best parts of it in under three hours, regardless of your experience on two wheels, says E-Bike Alley owner Amy Oliver.
Oliver’s expansive City Hall Ave. storefront is packed with a variety of electric bikes – both for sale and rental – and it’s the perfect starting point for a day of getting up close and personal with Norfolk’s nautical charms (without getting wet).
Since 2019, Oliver has operated the store, which was originally called Pedego Bikes Norfolk, and has expanded to include models from Urtopia, Segway, Jack Rabbit and includes scooters, one wheels, electric trikes and much more.
It all started with a trip to California, where Oliver and her family rented e-bikes to explore Angel Island.
“I thought, ‘wow, this is really cool,’” she says. “I said, ‘this might work here in Hampton Roads.”
Six years later, she has expanded beyond Norfolk into a new location in Williamsburg, offering scenic tours of wine country and the historic city. Both locations offer half- and full-day rentals, sales and full service, even for those who purchased their e-bikes elsewhere.
Sales and Service
In that time, the industry has seen up and down cycles, but Oliver has stayed true to her principle of offering quality service and helpful, hands-on tutorials for riders with no experience up to the most discerning e-bike shoppers.
While the typical e-bike consumer has trended toward those over 50 with disposable income and lots of time to travel, this is changing, Oliver says.
“The demographic is shifting. I recently went to a Segway conference and I saw lots of kids who are getting into it.”
E-bikes come in three classes, Oliver explains. Class One includes bikes with pedal assist only (think of it like having the wind at your back). Class two includes pedal assist plus a throttle and can take you up to 20 mph. With class three, the bike comes with pedal assist, throttle and can clock up to 28 mph.
Whatever your experience level, Oliver’s team can help you get up to speed in no time. Her rentals come with a quick session on how to operate the bike, along with tips on using the built-in GPS and two-way bluetooth communicator helmets. She provides handy maps of the ERT so visitors short on time can hit the city’s highlights.
Half-day rentals for e-bikes costs $50 per person; full-day (up to seven hours) costs $75 per person. The store will extend its operating hours until 6 p.m. starting in early March, 2025.
Norfolk experiences four true seasons, and it’s universally agreed that spring is one of its most enchanting. The city blooms as cool days give way to warmer coastal breezes and the earth awakens from its slumber. Soft pastel colors surround visitors who are free to dig into outdoor dining at local eateries and take leisurely walks along the Elizabeth River.
Day One
Norfolk Botanical Garden
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Apelu Island Cafe, a charming spot in Norfolk known for its cozy atmosphere and delightful morning treats. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee paired with a delicious pastry to kickstart your morning. After your refreshing breakfast, head over to the Norfolk Botanical Garden. In spring, the garden is a vibrant display of blooming flowers, perfect for a peaceful morning stroll through its various themed gardens. After Memorial Day, enhance your experience with a relaxing boat tour, offering a unique perspective of the gardens.
Afternoon
Rent a bike from Pedego Electric Bike Rentals and enjoy a scenic ride along the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT). This picturesque path offers beautiful waterfront views and a relaxing ride through some of Norfolk’s most charming areas.
Scenery along the Elizabeth River Trail
As you make your way along the ERT, stop for lunch at Orapax in the Ghent District. Known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine,the perfect place to refuel after your bike ride. If you’re feeling thirsty, end your ride at Smartmouth BrewingCompany for a refreshing beer or cider. This local favorite offers a great selection of craft beers, providing the perfect conclusion to your active and enjoyable afternoon.
Night
Begin your evening with rooftop views at Grain, enjoy the spring weather and stunning sights of the city while also having a delicious meal. After dinner, head over to Harbor Park for a Norfolk Tides game. Starting in April, you can catch exciting baseball action and even enjoy one of their themed nights, adding a fun twist to your evening. This lively atmosphere is a perfect way to end your day in Norfolk.
Day Two
Morning
Start your morning at Cure Coffeehouse, a cozy spot perfect for enjoying quality coffee and a bite from their vast food menu while relaxing in their outdoor seating. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming Freemason District, admiring the gorgeous cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
Farmers market
Wander over to The Pagoda and Japanese Garden, then check out the Norfolk Farmers Market at Monticello or explore other local markets in East Beach, the Railyard District and Ghent for fresh produce and unique finds. This is a great way to experience the local culture and support local vendors.
Afternoon
For the afternoon, grab a bite to eat at TASTE, where you can enjoy salads, wraps, sandwiches, and more. If you need an afternoon pick-me-up, head around the corner to Kobros Coffee Co. to try one of their experimental rotating seasonal coffees.
Signs of Spring in Norfolk
Then, visit the Virginia Zoo to see 700 different types of animals from North America, Africa, and Asia. You can check out the electric train or just stroll the grounds while viewing the various exhibits during the gorgeous spring weather.
Night
Finish the day with a photoshoot at the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, it is the perfect spot for capturing photos during golden hour or even just seeing a gorgeous sunset. For dinner, head over to Grandiflora Winegarden in the Chelsea District, where you can try their wines and eclectic food. You can sit inside the charming historic house or outside in their garden, surrounded by gorgeous flowers and trees. Afterward, head over to the Railroad District to grab a nightcap at Only You Lounge inside the Veil Brewing Co. Enjoy drinks and dessert while listening to one of their vinyl DJs, making for a perfect end to your day.
Located just north of Downtown and southeast of Ghent, the NEON District (short for New Energy of Norfolk) is making a name for itself as a vibrant arts district. Museums, public murals, and local businesses add to the appeal of this neighborhood, making it perfect for a day of exploring your creative side.
The Arts
The city’s best kept secret is probably the jaw-dropping collection of more than 30,000 works of art and artifacts at the Chrysler Museum of Art. With a range of art spanning centuries and a fast collection of glass art, this museum inspires a sense of wonder just walking in the door. Learn more about the beauty and skill that comes with glass art blowing at the Perry Glass Studio, part of the Chrysler Museum of Art, a separate building across the street that has undergone a massive expansion inviting visitors to blow their own glass pieces or watch the master at work as they create more complex pieces.
Chrysler Museum of Art
Watch artists at work in D’Art Center, where local artists rent out studio space they can both work and sell their art in. You’ll also find additional artwork for sale in the main gallery from various artists. Get a taste of Norfolk’s performing arts with an opera show at the Harrison Opera House. Be sure to check their events calendar for free lawn shows as well.
Harrison Opera House
For more performing arts, enjoy the stage works put on by the Hurrah Players, who call NEON home, or grab a seat for some chuckles at the Push Comedy Theater. In October, the annual NEON Festival takes place over two nights and celebrates the creative passion that drives the NEON District.
Public Art
Throughout this artistic neighborhood, you’ll find vibrant murals popping up in corners and alleys. With over 60 large-scale murals scattered around the neighborhood, these beautiful public art pieces add to the overall artistic vibe of the neighborhood. To learn more about the meaning behind the murals and the artists that painted them, Norfolk Tour Company offers walking tours of the neighborhood with an expert guide.
Dining in NEON
“Funky” is a good term to describe the vibe in NEON, and this extends to the neighborhood’s eateries. Fuel up on poké and pitas at Zeke’s Beans and Bowls or relax with a light dish at the Chrysler Museum’s Zinnia Cafe.
Celebrating NEON in October
Dynamic, spirited and community-focused, the annual NEON Festival takes place over a pair of nights each October. The event showcases the district’s creative energy through a variety of performances, exhibitions and interactive experiences.
NEON Festival
The streets are closed down to vehicle traffic, allowing visitors to safely explore the festival’s multiple venues, including the recently-opened new portions of Chrysler Museum’s Perry Glass Studio. During the fest, visitors can enjoy performances from several genres, from indie to rock to hip-hop, along with visual arts including painting, sculpture and installation art. There’s also street art – of both the temporary and the permanent variety, such as the dozens of murals that adorn the walls around the NEON District. Food and drink are served up from local vendors, including breweries and food trucks. Family-friendly activities include crafts and games for the entire family.
The NEON Festival is a testament to the district’s commitment to fostering creativity and community. It’s a can’t-miss annual event for anyone who appreciates art, music and good times.
