18 October 2024

Norfolk's Best Holiday Attractions

The holiday season is here, and with it brings a whole host of fun activities! Norfolk is known for its unique holiday events, from dazzling light displays to parades on both the streets and water. Here are some unique activities and events to spice up your holiday season.

WinterFest on the Wisconsin 

Celebrate the holidays at Nauticus! This season will shine even brighter as WinterFest on the Wisconsin returns with more than 1 million lights! WinterFest on the Wisconsin is celebrating this season with an all-new holiday movie theme.  A towering 35-foot-tall leg lamp, a larger-than-life Ralphie (complete with his pink bunny suit), two Grinch “takeover” nights, and an elaborate new train display featuring everyone’s favorite elf are just some of the additions that make this season’s WinterFest bigger and brighter than ever! WinterFest opens Nov. 15, 2024 and runs through Jan. 1, 2025.

Downtown Norfolk 

Courtesy of Downtown Norfolk Council

Downtown Norfolk is illuminated for the holiday season! Buildings are decked with holiday lights, big, red bows adorn streetlamps, windows glow with cheery displays (check out VisitNorfolk’s Visitor Center window!), giant Christmas trees tower over passersby in city squares, and festive art lines historic Granby Street.

Garden of Lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden

If you thought the Norfolk Botanical Garden was magical during the daytime, just wait until you see it at night during the holidays. Twinkling lights transform the garden into a holiday wonderful complete with various themes, configurations and even some familiar characters along the way. The magically designed route is sure to please with new lighting features including a spectacular lighting display highlighting our NATO Tower. The path will take you through portions of the Garden for an immersive experience that will lead back to the main parking lot. This year, check out the display between Nov. 8, 2024 and Jan. 5, 2025.

Grand Illumination Parade

Norfolk’s Grand Illumination Parade that takes place every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, bringing thousands of spectators out to the streets of Downtown Norfolk to take in the beauty, magic, and electric holiday spirit to kick off the season. This year, the 38th Annual Grand Illumination Parade takes place in Downtown Norfolk on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 7 p.m. The theme of this year’s parade is “Retro Wonderland,” so get ready to see the streets filled with all things holiday!

Holiday Yule Log Bonfire & Christmas Marketplace

Shop local, visit Santa, and welcome in the holiday season at the 9th Annual Holiday Yule Log Bonfire & Christmas Marketplace on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from noon to 8 p.m. at Town Point Park along the Downtown Waterfront Norfolk. The free event features an expansive shopping experience showcasing local small businesses and artisans, a cozy bonfire, a live ice carving demonstration, seasonal cocktails and warm beverages, plus free Santa Claus visits, all in a beautiful, snowy winter wonderland along the Elizabeth River.

This year, the event also presents even more specialty, family-friendly entertainment. Look for the Santa Express train rides, fun and games with DJ Melody, holiday-themed arts and crafts, meet and greets with Disney princesses and much more. Last year, the event added a Sensory Inclusive Zone, a dedicated area for those wanting a break from the noise, action and crowds. The area will be staffed and be designated for families with special needs.

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11 October 2024

Best Oyster Restaurants in Norfolk

November is officially Virginia Oyster Month and, if we’re honest, there’s nothing like gathering around a plate of freshly-shucked oysters. Virginia is home to eight oyster regions, with results ranging from briny to mild to sweet butter and cream. Of course, many Norfolk restaurants serve oysters from all over, so take the opportunity to discover a new favorite. The most popular option for oysters is raw with a side of cocktail sauce, lemon juice or mignonette. You’ll also find them steamed, fried or served Rockefeller or Romano style. Whatever you’re craving, these Norfolk oyster bars are ideal for shucking and slurping.

A.W. Shucks 

Oysters are a must at this casual raw bar and grill featuring specialty craft beers, wines and cocktails. A locals’ favorite, A.W. Shucks sources oysters from up and down the East Coast. Grab a seat at the raw bar, learn more about the oyster offerings and watch the shucker at work. Enjoy them raw or Romano with fresh greens, bacon and Italian cheeses broiled golden. Get them crispy fried as an appetizer or dinner platter, or stuff ’em in a Po-Boy. Another great option is Shucks’ oyster stew, made to order and loaded with plump Eastern Shore oysters and bacon, served over mashed potatoes.

Byrd & Baldwin Steakhouse

Fine dining at its finest, this Downtown Norfolk steakhouse brings culinary expertise to each meal. Their rotating raw oyster selection comes standard with lemon, cocktail and mignonette. Rockefeller oysters get gussied up with spinach, bacon and parmesan. Know before you go: Reservations are encouraged here, a dress code is required, and the restaurant requests no children under the age of 12.

Captain Groovy’s Raw Bar

This wharf-themed eatery offers regional seafood dishes and casual cuisine with a full bar and patio. Captain Groovy’s proudly serves an array of oysters in many variations. Slurp them raw or steamed for just $1 each all day (minimum of six). You can also get broiled oysters in three exciting variations: Rock with spinach, onion, bacon and provolone; Spanish with chorizo, tomato and queso fresco; or Americana with butter, garlic and parmesan. Extra hungry? Get the Sandy Point oysters served with slaw, fries and remoulade.

Norfolk Seafood Company & Big Easy Oyster Bar

Simply a seafood lover’s heaven, Norfolk Seafood Company & Big Easy Oyster Bar is the quintessential seafood restaurant, complete with excellent food and stellar vibe. Each night, this oyster bar serves up four to seven different types of oysters from the Chesapeake Bay to New England. We recommend the oyster sampler, a shucker’s select assortment of 18 plump and juicy oysters, or the raw bar sampler where you’ll get oysters, snow crab legs, shrimp and crab cocktail. Hot options include fried oysters with Napa cabbage and spicy aioli or Rockefeller with spinach, bacon, parmesan, onion and Pernod.

Saltine

Hilton Norfolk The Main features three restaurants including the seafood-focused Saltine, located at street level. Saltine offers an airy, open environment with garage door windows that open to the main streets of Downtown Norfolk. You can’t miss their raw bar, displaying top-notch seafood options chilled on mounds of ice. Their daily selection of oysters on the half shell rotates, so you’ll always have something fabulous to try. Prefer hot? Their charbroiled oysters are perfectly flavored with sea butter, lemon and parsley. Pro tip: Join for happy hour and get local oysters by the half dozen for just 75 cents an oyster!

Todd Jurich’s Bistro

At this AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant, Chef Todd Jurich prides himself on using fresh ingredients from local farms and oysters from Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Get them iced on the half shell with mignonette and a special chili cocktail or deep fried with lemon and house remoulade. For something a bit heartier, try Todd’s Famous Oyster Stew topped with smoked bacon, potatoes and chives.

But wait; there’s more

Though not officially oyster bars, these Norfolk restaurants feature oysters on their menu in some truly wonderful ways.

Codex

As you scroll through the innovative menu at Codex, you may notice in their appetizers an oyster offering paired with yuzu mignonette. You’ll want to order this. Yuzu, a tart hybrid citrus fruit, adds a complex, bright note which perfectly complements the brininess of oysters.

Four Eleven York

The menu changes with the seasons at this elevated gem of a restaurant in Freemason. One thing that never changes is the restaurant’s standards of quality flavors and ingredients, so if you do happen to see oysters on the menu, know that they’re regionally sourced and prepared in the most fantastic way. For instance, their recent version paired seaside salt wild oysters with gochujang dressing, pickled vegetables and housemade sesame crackers.

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11 October 2024

Norfolk Holiday Bucket List

If you haven’t yet spent a holiday weekend in Norfolk, you’re in for a festive treat. There’s many ways to get in the spirit of the season, whether watching colorful sparkles bounce on the water from a historic battleship, nostalgically gazing at decorations from cobblestone streets or getting cozy by a fire. Plus, we’ve got some local sips to help put you in the jolly spirit as well. Here are 16 ultimate Norfolk holiday bucket list items to get you started.

1. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Freemason District 

Rebuilt shortly after the destruction of the Revolutionary War, Norfolk’s Freemason District features cobblestone streets and beautiful historic homes with colonial architecture. Located along the waterfront, the area’s charm provides a perfect location for a festive stroll after a big family meal.

2. Wave to Santa in the Grand Illumination pArade

Get your Santa sighting in early this year at Norfolk’s Grand Illumination Parade, held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. You’ll have an extra pep in your step with the music from talented marching bands as you watch a creative show of vibrantly colored and brightly lit floats pass by. Stay until the very end to get a glimpse of the big guy in red. This year, the 38th Annual Grand Illumination Parade takes place in Downtown Norfolk on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 7 p.m. get ready to see the streets filled with all things holiday!

3. Get Cozy By a Yule Log BonFire

Shop local, visit Santa, and welcome in the holiday season at the Annual Holiday Yule Log Bonfire & Christmas Marketplace on Saturday, Saturday, December 7, 2024, from noon to 8 p.m. at Town Point Park along the Downtown Waterfront Norfolk. The free event features an expansive shopping experience showcasing local small businesses and artisans, a cozy bonfire, a live ice carving demonstration, seasonal cocktails and warm beverages, plus free Santa Claus visits, all in a beautiful, snowy winter wonderland along the Elizabeth River.

This year, the event also presents even more specialty, family-friendly entertainment. Look for the Santa Express train rides, fun and games with , holiday-themed arts and crafts, meet and greets with Disney princesses and much more.

4. Sip a Grand Illumination Cocktail from Gershwin’s

Located amid the hustle and bustle of Granby Street, also historically known as Norfolk’s “restaurant row,” you’ll find Gershwin’s, a classy piano lounge, lit up by vintage marquee lights. At night, a large Christmas tree glitters from the front windows as performers sing and play jazz music to a captivated audience. Settle in under chandeliers reminiscent of the 1930s and warm up with their signature cocktail, Grand Illumination. Given the same name as Norfolk’s famous holiday parade, the Grand Illumination cocktail is crafted from Maker’s Mark and orange peel smoked tableside with cherry wood.

5. Snuggle up at an outdoor fire pit

Baby, it’s cold outside in Norfolk during the winter! Snuggle up at one of our many outdoor fire pits and grab a snack, cocktail or glass of wine. 

6. See the lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden

Echard Holiday Images

The Dominion Energy Garden of Lights at the Norfolk Botanical Garden was named one of the “best botanical garden holiday light shows in the country” by USA TODAY. Walking through this dazzling display is a magical experience for the whole family. This year, it runs from Nov. 8, 2024 through Jan. 5, 2025.

7. Try the lotta sap IPA at Smartmouth Brewing Co.

@smartmouthbeer, Instagram

Smartmouth Brewing Co.’s Lotta Sap with fresh-cut spruce tips and tons of Lemondrop, Centennial, and Cascade flavors is a local wintertime favorite here in Norfolk. Find it on tap at the brewery’s headquarters, located on the banks of the Elizabeth River. Bring the pup to have some whole-family fun.

8. Finish your shopping Early

Norfolk is a one-stop shop for all your holiday gift-buying needs this season. From the locally-focused Selden Market to Norfolk Premium Outlets and all the small businesses in between, Norfolk has plenty of options.

10. Enjoy Festive Treats at The Birch

Holiday desserts are delicious, but they’re even better when you don’t have to make them for yourself. Norfolk’s Chelsea neighborhood stays abuzz year-round, but the vibe is electric during the holiday season. Delight in The Birch’s cider or mead while you devour a delectable Apple & Peach Cobbler, Virginia peaches and apples soaked in spiced cider, topped with a brown sugar cinnamon walnut crumble and served with house-made gelato. 

11. Admire the giant tree at Townebank Fountain Park

@shailaja_ra0, Instagram

The massive Christmas tree located on the waterfront in Townebank Fountain Park provides a great location to snap cute holiday photos. Afterward, stop by Waterside District next door for yummy food, or walk through the park to Nauticus where you can explore Winterfest.

12. View Holiday Decor at The Main

Courtesy of Norfolk Hilton The Main

Marvel at the Hilton Norfolk the Main’s holiday decor as all corners of the hotel will be decked out in Christmas trees, poinsettias and their larger-than-life gingerbread house. This scrumptious holiday gingerbread house is constructed of 10 gallons of syrup, 500 pieces of gumdrops and 100 pounds of butter! Wander the levels of the hotel, grab a brew at the outdoor rooftop restaurant, Grain and you’ll be living the life like Kevin from “Home Alone 2” at the Plaza!

13. Cruise around looking at lights

There’s nothing like seeing our city aglow, and quite frankly, there’s no better view of Norfolk’s illuminated skyline than from the water. Book a holiday cruise with City Cruises Norfolk to experience the festive feel of the holiday season from the beautiful waters of the Elizabeth River. City Cruises features a fabulous dinner buffet along with cocktails available for purchase and a live DJ. You can also book their New Year’s Eve Signature Dinner Cruise to ring in the next year in the best of style.

14. Search for tiny elf doors. No, really.

Magic is around every corner in Downtown Norfolk, as 100 tiny elf doors have appeared all around the city! This seasonal scavenger hunt will take you on a fun journey all throughout Downtown Norfolk. You can find these magical doors near theaters, restaurants, parks and any other places elves may gather throughout Downtown. At WinterFest on the Wisconsin, 15 cheeky elves have also hidden doors with waterfront views!

15. Pay a visit to the Jolly Guy in Red

Santa has arrived to MacArthur Center and is ready for meeting, greeting, picture taking and list making. Bring the whole family, and on select dates, bring your furry family members too for Pet Photos with Santa!

16. Winterfest on the Wisconsin


Experience the enchantment of WinterFest on the Wisconsin this season with over one million dazzling lights, including glowing tunnels and twinkling footbridges. Explore the all-new “Passport to the Holidays” and enjoy live entertainment, a waterfront s’mores station, craft bars, outdoor holiday shopping, and hourly snowfall at Mistletoe Marina. Join in the fun with everyone’s favorite green grouch, a spectacular Santa tree lighting, and a puppet version of a Christmas carol. It’s the perfect family outing or romantic date night for a season of cheer and wonder!

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23 September 2024

Norfolk Cemetery Tours

If you’ve never experienced a cemetery tour, Norfolk is the city in which to start. The historic cemeteries, many filled with beautiful Victorian funerary art, provide a glimpse into the past and insight into some of the notable people who shaped Norfolk into what it is today. The city is home to eight historic municipal cemeteries: Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Grove Cemetery, Elmwood Cemetery, Forest Lawn Cemetery, Hebrew Cemetery, Magnolia Cemetery, Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery and West Point Cemetery. These cemeteries are honored and educational places offering cultural and recreational resources for Norfolk’s community.

The Norfolk Society for Cemetery Conservation (NSCC) offers an array of captivating tours led by NSCC volunteers, knowledgeable historians and experienced storytellers, helping to bring the stories to life. They also host an annual “From Here to Eternity” 5K run through several of the cemeteries to raise funds for conservation efforts (the 2024 event is set for 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 12). Learn more about Norfolk’s cemeteries below, with information from the Norfolk Society for Cemetery Conservation.

Calvary Cemetery

Calvary Cemetery was established in 1877 as a burial ground for Norfolk’s African American citizens.  For nearly a century, most of Norfolk’s African American citizens were buried at Calvary as there were no other options available to African Americans in Norfolk until the mid-1970s. Epitaphs document the lives of every level of African American society from doctors and lawyers to sailors and laborers. Today, Calvary serves as both a place of remembrance and a chronology of the many important contributions of Norfolk’s African American citizens to the history of our great City.  

Cedar Grove Cemetery

Cedar Grove Cemetery was established in 1825 as Norfolk’s first public burial ground. Though it encompasses only 14 acres of land, Cedar Grove is a valuable cultural landscape. Along with many of Norfolk’s founding fathers, there are hundreds of Civil War soldiers and sailors laid to rest at Cedar Grove.  It is also the site of mass burials of Norfolk citizens who were victims of the 1855 yellow fever epidemic. 

Elmwood Cemetery

Elmwood Cemetery, established in 1853, is a Victorian Garden Cemetery and the final resting place for hundreds of Civil War soldiers, many of Norfolk’s founders and Virginia Governor Littleton Waller Tazewell (1774–1860). Elmwood offers several tours throughout the year. For 2024, the NSCC is leading haunted tours on Oct. 18 and 26 at 2 p.m.

Forest Lawn Cemetery

Forest Lawn Cemetery was established in 1906 as the last of eight municipal cemeteries in Norfolk. The Langley Family Burial Ground was included in this purchase and remains a historical point of interest today with interments dating back to the 1700s. Forest Lawn boasts several fraternal and memorial lots including the Seaman’s Friend Society Lot and the U.S. Army’s 111th Field Artillery Batallion and 29th Infantry Division Memorial. Comprised of more than 165 acres of land, Forest Lawn Cemetery is a natural arboretum with over 70 species of trees including crape myrtles, black walnut trees, dogwoods, and magnolias. 

Hebrew Cemetery

Hebrew Cemetery was established in 1850 when prominent Jewish families purchased a rectangular plot fronting Princess Anne Road and extending northeastward.  At some point, the surviving graves from Tidwater’s first Jewish burial ground, Power Point Cemetery in Berkley, were transfered to this land. 

Magnolia Cemetery

Magnolia Cemetery was established in 1860 and was operated by a private cemetery corporation until the City of Norfolk purchased it in 1911.  The cemetery lies in the Berkley section of Norfolk, one of the oldest communities in Virginia. 

Riverside Memorial Park

Riverside Memorial Park was established in 1910 in the Campostella Heights area of Norfolk. The City of Norfolk purchased it in 1971. Riverside covers more than 44 acres and has a unique design, like the spokes of a wheel extending outward from a central circle creating sections shaped like pie slices. Since 1995, over 200 trees have been planted at Riverside as part of an ongoing urban forestry program. Tugboats, industrial cranes and other seafaring structures provide the backdrop to several sections at Riverside Memorial Park reminding those who visit of the importance of the ship repair industry to the City of Norfolk.

West Point Cemetery

Though the Norfolk Common Council authorized the burial of “people of colour” in a Potter’s Field in Norfolk in 1827, it wasn’t until 1873 that another Potter’s Field was established for the exclusive interment of African American citizens. Known briefly as Calvary Cemetery, this burial ground was located at the west point of Elmwood Cemetery. In 1885, with the urging of Norfolk’s first African American Councilman, James E. Fuller, Norfolk City Council changed the name to West Point Cemetery. Councilman Fuller further insisted that a section of the cemetery “…be dedicated as a special place of burial for black Union veterans…”  Thus, Section 20 was “donated to the Directors of the Union Veterans Hall Association for the burial of the members of the Grand Army of the Republic.” 

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18 September 2024

Norfolk, VA Fall Bucket List

Fall (aka sweater weather) has arrived, bringing with it a slew of fantastic events and activities, plus eats and drinks. Arguably one of the best times of year to visit Norfolk, fall means weather that’s just right, sunny days and brisk, cozy evenings and a ramped up festival season. We’ve put together some local favorite activities and recommendations for your ultimate fall bucket list in Norfolk! 

Slurp a Virginia Oyster

Sure, you can enjoy oysters from any coastal town, but have you tried a Virginia oyster? Fall is oyster season, and November is Virginia Oyster Month! Dining at one of Norfolk’s many oyster restaurants will allow you to taste the character of our waters in one quick, complex bite. 

Shop at a Witch Boutique

With crisp fall air comes pumpkins, full moons and all things spooky. So, head to Velvet Witch, a modern, witch boutique in the Freemason neighborhood where the owner is a psychic medium and professional tarot card reader. After your reading, shop the store for all your incense, crystals, candles and magic supplies. Other local options include Aries Apothecary in Riverview and The Crystal Sunflower in Freemason.

Sip a Pumpkin Spice or Fall Flavored Latte

It’s officially pumpkin spice season, but that’s certainly not the only fall flavor around. Check out our coffee guide on where to find the best cup of joe, and explore menus to find your perfect sip of autumn. Go traditional with a PSL, or discover a new favorite flavor like Biscoff, coriander caramel, hickory boysenberry or whiskey brown sugar. Plus, you can get perks as you sip with our Perk Up Pass, offering discounts and rewards at participating coffee shops.

Oktoberfest Beers and Celebrations

Visit one of our breweries and enjoy a seasonal brew! Smartmouth Brewery has the Princess, a Märzen (copper lager) that boasts the perfect union of caramel toffee sweetness with warm, toasty maltiness. This is their version of an Oktoberfest beer that is named for the fair and fertile Princess Elizabeth (she birthed 13 royals) and is the namesake of the river that courses through our region, the Elizabeth River. From Sept. 21 to Oct. 5, 2024, Elation Brewery Company is hosting an Oktoberfest celebration where wearing dirndls and lederhosen are highly encouraged. 

Attend a Farmers Market

Attend one of Norfolk’s seasonal farmers markets to find plenty of fresh fall produce including squashes, pumpkins and fall flavored sweet treats like cinnamon apple scones.    

Fall Flowers and foliage at Norfolk Botanical Garden

Norfolk Botanical Garden is the perfect spot for a stroll with a hot latte to admire fall flowers, which include the popular Chrysanthemum (mums) which can be found in the Matson Garden. Keep in mind that our fall foliage usually does not occur until November, so you can still see green leaves in September and October. Once those leaves start to turn, the experience is nothing short of magical.

Attend a Festival 

Since Norfolk’s temperature is perfect this time of year, it makes for the best time to attend an outdoor waterfront festival. Attend the Town Point Virginia Fall Wine Festival and you’ll find yourself sipping some of Virginia’s finest grapes. That same weekend, you can also peruse paintings, pottery, jewelry and more from artists local, regional and beyond at the Stockley Gardens Fall Arts Festival. Another great option is the NEON Festival celebrating Norfolk’s very own arts district. For more of our fall festivals, click here.

Attend a Football Game or Watch it on the Big Screen

Football season has arrived, and our friends at Old Dominion University and Norfolk State University are just waiting for you to cheer them on! Attend one of their home games to feel the Norfolk spirit, or if you’re looking to cheer on your favorite college or NFL team, head to Waterside District. They broadcast the games on massive screens while selling plenty of wings and beer for you to enjoy.  

Indulge in fall treats

Head to one of our bakeries or restaurants for scrumptious seasonal desserts. You will find everything from traditional apple pie from Stockpot to pumpkin cheesecake brownies from Bar-Q Desserts. If you’re a fanatic ice cream lover all year long, Strawberry Fields creates some amazing fall flavored gelato like brown butter pecan.

Explore the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT)

As cooler temperatures make their debut in Virginia, strolling the ERT is much more enjoyable. Whether you walk, bike, run or picnic along the ERT, relax your day away by listening to the swaying of the fall leaves. For chillier days, don’t forget to treat yourself to a Mermaid City hoodie from our Mermaid Market, conveniently located Downtown.

Join a Haunted Tour of Norfolk

Journey through some of Downtown’s otherworldly histories from ghost stories and real life tragedies to experiments from another dimension. Norfolk Tour Company will guide you through the depths of Norfolk to explore all the spooky charm our city has to offer.

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19 August 2024

5 Reasons to Visit Ocean View in Autumn

There’s almost nothing better than visiting Norfolk’s beaches on a hot summer day—except, perhaps, visiting those same beaches during fall. When the autumn season rolls around, Norfolk’s beachy neighborhood of Ocean View transforms into a blissful experience, minus the scorching temperatures. We invite you to breathe in the brisk, salty air, feel the cool sand beneath your feet and enjoy a stroll with a warm fall beverage in hand. Here are just a few things to celebrate about Ocean View in autumn.

1. The beaches are less crowded—and you can bring your dog.

Ocean View’s sandy beaches meet the beautiful Chesapeake Bay, a perfect setting for a stroll any time of year. Dress in cozy layers to explore more than seven miles of shoreline in a calm and serene setting. Traveling with a four-legged friend? Bring Fido along! Leashed dogs are welcome on Norfolk’s beaches Labor Day through Memorial Day. Free parking is available at Community Beach ParkOcean View Beach Park, and Sarah Constant Beach Park.

2. It’s arguably the best season for flavored lattes (and flavored beers) .

Whether you look forward to a traditional pumpkin spice or like to turn things up a notch with maple, butterscotch and caramel, it’s the perfect season to cozy up to a coffee counter and order something hot for a brisk day. Stop by COVA Brewing Co., serving a fantastic lineup of coffees, plus beer, wine, seltzers and ciders on tap. Caffeinate to your heart’s content with one of COVA’s homemade syrups available in fun fall flavors. Speaking of delicious fall beverages, it would be a shame to leave COVA Brewing not having tried their pumpkin spiced latte ale.

3. The fish are probably biting. The views are definitely worth trying.

As the Chesapeake Bay cools off, the striper fishing season heats up! The striped bass season is an anticipated fall gift for Chesapeake Bay fishers. An abundance of Virginia state records for award-winning large striped bass has come from these prime fishing waters, with catches up to 70 pounds! Cast a line from shore, or find a chartered fishing excursion here. Ocean View’s famous Ocean View Fishing Pier, along with their handy tackle shop, will be open for your fishing needs until around Thanksgiving or as long as weather permits.

4. It’s barbecue season.

The smell of savory smoked barbecue wafting through the crisp fall air is something we can’t get enough of this time of year. If you’re in that same frame of mind, head to Bar-Q, located at Bold Mariner Brewing Company, for a platter of something tasty, smoky and irresistible.

5. It’s also seafood season.

Just kidding; it’s always seafood season in Norfolk. But, we do love to talk about Ocean View’s seafood restaurants, including Longboards, Captain Groovy’s Grill and Raw Bar, Stony’s Dockside Bar and Grill and the Ocean View Fishing Pier Restaurant. All of these traditional seafood spots are casual, welcoming and ready to warm you up with a steaming bowl of she crab soup after a chilly fall day.

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07 August 2024

The Best Ways to Spend a Rainy Day in Norfolk

Caught in the rain during your visit to Norfolk? Don’t let a few clouds and sprinkles put a damper on the day. There are tons of indoor activities in Norfolk that are ideal for staying dry and passing the time in a most wonderful way. Here’s a few ways to spend some inside time in Norfolk, no matter the forecast!

Eat some elevated comfort food

Nothing pairs better with rainy days than comfort food. Take a seat at Grilled Cheese Bistro and order one of their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. These sandwiches are the best thing since sliced bread. Their Violet grilled cheese, for instance, features fresh blueberries, applewood bacon, and brie on rustic walnut and bleu cheese sourdough. Insider tip: Enhance your sandwich with an order of fresh tomato soup. Be sure to try other cozy favorites such as StockpotAlkaline and Toast

Unwind at a brewery

@oconnorbrewing, Instagram

Is it pouring outside? It’s pouring inside too—at Norfolk’s beloved breweries, that is. Order yourself a pint (or pour your own if you’re at COVA Brewing Co) and spend the afternoon of sipping and socializing. Many of Norfolk’s breweries also feature board games, live music and food trucks, all proven ways to pass the time in a most enjoyable way.

Go Shopping

Treat yourself to a unique shopping experience at Selden Market. Here you’ll find a mix of local businesses specializing in everything from handmade leather goods and jewelry to self-poured candles, lingerie and items hailing from Virginia. The market also has rotating pop-up shops, so there’s always something new to see. Meanwhile, Norfolk Prime Outlets is great for finding those popular name brands and prices you’ll love. Want to shop ’til you drop? Here’s a roundup of some of Norfolk’s coolest local stores.

Explore Art, Culture and Maritime Discovery

Start the morning at Nauticus, Norfolk’s maritime discovery center, which is also home to the Battleship Wisconsin and Hampton Roads Naval Museum. Then explore over 30,000 original works of art spanning more than 5,000 years at Chrysler Museum of Art. Unleash your inner artist with interactive exhibits and more! Other inside arts and cultural attractions include the Barry Art Museum, d’Art Center, Hermitage Museum & Gardens and the Glass Light Gallery located at the Glass Light Hotel. See more museums here.

Shop For Books

Reading, as they say, is fundamental. Not to mention, fun. If you’re itching to go book shopping and feel the need to add to your ever-growing To Be Read pile, fear not; Norfolk has you covered. From beach reads to serious collectible tomes, these Norfolk, Virginia bookstores and pop-up booksellers will keep you turning pages all year long. See our roundup of bookstores and pop-up booksellers here.

Create A souvenir

While you’re at the Chrysler Museum, be sure to check out the Perry Glass Studio located just steps away from the main building. Let the studio’s trained artists guide you as you create a glass masterpiece of your own. Not ready to play with fire? Paint and decorate your very own mermaid at the Mermaid Factory. The creativity doesn’t stop there. You can paint your own pottery at Color Me Mine, design a beautiful wooden sign for your home or office at Board & Brush or delight in a combination or painting plus wine at Pinot’s Palette.

See a show

Check out our events calendar to see what’s happening while you’re here. On any given day, you could catch a Broadway performance at Chrysler Hall, hear jazz at the Attucks Theatre, enjoy a musical or sporting event at Scope Arena or experience an unforgettable opera at Harrison Opera House. Nothing catching your eye? You can always catch a movie at Norfolk’s beloved Naro Expanded Cinema.

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06 August 2024

Black-Owned Businesses in Norfolk, VA

The city of Norfolk would not be the creative, diverse and vibrant community that it is without the endless contributions made by Black residents and business owners. Some of these Black-owned businesses have become staples, while others have just planted their roots. From scrumptious soul food to self-care sanctuaries, we celebrate these businesses within our city and encourage you to visit their establishments to continue to support and lift them up. Here are a few Black-owned businesses to get you started.

350 Grace

The street view of 350 Grace is a sleek and simple black and white facade, but once you open their front door, a vibrant blue, white and brick interior greets you. Their menu is a perfect marriage of traditional Southern comfort food and modern cuisine. Not only is the food delicious and innovative; it is completely gluten- and grain-free. Chef Willie Moats brings extreme talent to the 350 Grace menu with dishes like Black Garlic Molasses Glazed Half Cornish Hen  served with maple sweet potatoes, fried okra, tomato marmalade and melted goat cheese. Their cocktail menu favors Southern concoctions like the Salted Grapefruit Bourbon Martini (Jim Beam Black, ruby red grapefruit juice, simple syrup, grapefruit zest), or try an after dinner drink like Mississippi Mud (Goslings Rum, creme de banana, half-and-half and Hennessy). To cap off the meal, indulge in a Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread Brûlée served with fresh blueberry jam.

Bar-Q 

@bar_q, Instagram

Southern wraparound porches will catch your eye when you drive by Bar-Q’s location nestled inside Bold Mariner Brewing Company. Then, your attention will quickly divert to the oversized meat smoker that resides in their parking lot, leaving you to wonder just how delicious their barbecue must be. Next, comes the beautiful aromas of freshly smoked meat that will have your mouth watering almost instantly. Bar-Q has an à la carte menu, but we highly suggest filling up a platter with their moist brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, spicy (but not too spicy) jalapeño and cheddar links and classic cornbread. Pitmaster Jayme Campbell is a barbecue pro but embraces his creative side and hosts occasional BBQ Sushi Nights at the brewery. 

Brothers

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Norfolk, Brothers is the perfect mix of the traditional dining experience with a contemporary flair. Founded and inspired by NBA referee and Norfolk native Tony Brothers, the restaurant offers a fine dining experience that is vibrant, inviting and entertaining. Brothers boats a broad menu that will entice the most sophisticated and adventurous palate. Kindred spirits are invited to enjoy the finest cut of chops, a variety of fresh seafood and a robust selection of spirits.

BLYSS Ice Cream and Desserts

BLYSS owner Bria Suggs

Bria Suggs is not only a veteran of the ice cream business, but of the armed forces, as well. An eight-year Air Force vet who grew up in Coastal Virginia and was stationed at Langley Air Force Base, she previously worked at Dairy Queen and went on to start her own frozen treat truck called Shake It Up Shakes. Today, she owns and operates BLYSS Ice Cream and Desserts at 112 Granby St. Read our profile on her here.

Canvas Social Cuisine

Canvas Social Cuisine, located in the heart of Downtown Norfolk serves up comfort food, soul, Caribbean and American inspired dishes.

Cork And Kettle

In his 22 years as a business attorney, Earnhart Spencer has helped countless entrepreneurs purchase, sell and operate their dream shops. This knowledge has proven invaluable as he ventures into his own dream in the form of Cork & Kettle, a wine and tea bar in Downtown Norfolk. Cork & Kettle marries two of Spencer’s passions with 36 teas and 36 wines to purchase, and 16 of each for in-store enjoyment. Read our feature on Cork & Kettle here.

Freshtopia

@freshtopiava, Instagram

Did you know that Norfolk is home to a black-owned record store? Even though vinyl sales are skyrocketing in the U.S., only a fraction of the country’s 2,500 record stores are Black-owned, according to an article from Insider. At Freshtopia you can browse their vinyl record collection, shop for “fresh” hip-hop-related gear or catch beesus the DJ spinning live on fresh radio.

Get Well Soon 

@getwellsoon, Instagram 

Get Well Soon founders Virginia Thornton and Zahra Ahmad have created a self-care sanctuary to cater to a need they saw in themselves and in their community: suffering anxiety and depression in silence. Get Well Soon offers guided meditation, yoga, massages, facials, brow and lash services, an infrared sauna and a merchandise shop. This fun and welcoming environment is ideal for achieving healthier minds and bodies.

Jikoni Cafe

This all-vegan restaurant located in Park Place brings alternative options to meet without compromising the flavor. The secret is Jikoni Kush, a non-hybrid grain hailing from the tropics of Africa. Try their vegetable pasta mixed with Jikoni Kush, tomatoes, mushrooms, mixed bell peppers, onions and avocados, smothered in Jibini (Alfredo mixed with spicy Jamaican jerk sauce and topped with potatoes). Looking for something sweet? Try a vegan smoothies made with almond milk, organic agave and cashews for added creaminess. This cafe shares its location The House of Consciousness bookshop, promising that if guests arrive with an empty stomach and open mind, they’ll send them back full.

Less Than

@golessthan, Instagram

Owner Chris Simmonds launched this zero waste + refill shop in multiple cities throughout the region, including Norfolk. His Ghent shop features sustainable alternatives to everyday items that are healthier for you and our planet. Look for eco-friendly products made from natural ingredients that are free from harsh, synthetic chemicals and stem from makers who are environmentally aware. Household items like soap, lotion and deodorant are sold in recycled, recyclable, compostable or biodegradable packaging—or without packaging at all. While you’re there, peruse the vast, curated selection of nonalcoholic beverages at Ceremony, a section of the store within Less Than.

Pure Lagos

Pure Lagos is an Afropolitan Boutique and Art Gallery. African art pieces decorate the walls while African jewelry, clothing and accessories are featured throughout the store. Owner Sia Alexander not only sources all of these goods from Africa herself but prides herself on being a Fair Trade boutique. With a degree in Human Psychology and incredible knowledge in herbology, nutrition, yoga and spiritual healing gained from time spent in Paris, Capetown and West Africa, Sia offers African holistic health consultations to assist with deep healing. Find Pure Lagos at 251 W. Bute St.

Shark City Naturals

@sharkcity.naturals, Instagram

Shark City Naturals is a family-owned and operated, all-natural cosmetics company. The products were initially created to combat adverse reactions from products made with unknown substances but quickly evolved into a business providing a variety of beauty products made with wholesome ingredients.

Stark and Legum

Established in 1924, Stark and Legum, a haberdashery, is a Granby Street landmark offering customers the finest selection of men’s clothing, including designer suits, shoes and hats. Their talented and knowledgeable staff will help choose the best apparel and accessories for any occasion.

Studio Kuumba

Pop-up art studio and workspace. 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.

Yendidi Restaurant

@yendidirestaurant, Instagram

With a mission to share the true taste of West Africa cuisines with our region in an authentic, fresh and contemporary way, Yendidi is a cultural gem in our city. Start with an Afro Pie, a flaky, buttery pie filled with vegetables and a choice of beef, fish or chicken. Opt for a Ghana salad as a lighter option, or dive into a combination platter like Black Beans Jolly Burrito. With a tantalizing selection of soups and stews, plus meat, poultry, seafood and vegan options, there’s something to excite everyone’s taste buds at Yendidi.

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05 August 2024

Norfolk’s Top Barbecue Joints

Barbecue: the soul of the culinary South, where the roasting and smoking of meat is a slow and smooth process. Finger-lickin’ fact: Did you know Norfolk is home to some downright delicious barbecue? This list highlights Norfolk’s top barbecue joints where you can go for tender ribs, pulled pork, brisket and all the side dishes you adore. Let’s dig in.

Main image: Redwood Smoke Shack

Bar-Q  

Southern wraparound porches will catch your eye when you drive by Bar-Q’s location nestled inside Bold Mariner Brewing Company. Then, your attention will quickly divert to the oversized meat smoker that cooks up some of the tastiest barbecue around. Bar-Q has an à la carte menu, but we highly suggest filling up a platter with their moist brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, spicy jalapeño and cheddar links, classic cornbread and more! Pitmaster Jayme Campbell is a barbecue pro who embraces his creative side on the regular.

Blue Ribbon Brews & BBQ

Get your favorite barbecue offerings like pulled pork, chicken, brisket and pork ribs, plus some unexpected items like pulled pork nachos, cornbread drizzled with honey and irresistible sliders. Take advantage of their weekly specials (Military Mondays and Taco Tuesdays, for instance) and their extra meaty combos.

Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue

Doumar’s is well known in Norfolk for creating the world’s first waffle cone. They still serve cones made from the original machine, along with a helping of nostalgia via their drive-up diner atmosphere complete with friendly car service. Their secret weapon, however, might just be their pork barbecue sandwiches. Created classically since 1904, these juicy creations are piled high and minced with combinations of slaw, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo. Extra hungry? Go for the double meat. Watch them in City With Bite!

The Fishin’ Pig

Located inside a newly restored, 100-year-old building, part warehouse and part single-family home is The Fishin’ Pig restaurant. Original to Farmville, VA, The Fishin’ Pig is a creative collaboration of Memphis-style barbecue (we recommend the brisket) and Southern seafood dishes, like their catfish tacos! What you can expect from the barbecue side of the menu is delicious brisket that tenderly falls apart, ribs that are worth the messy hands and delicious pulled pork and chicken options that are best when topped with extra barbecue sauce, of which they have multiple options to choose from at the table.

GOgi Guys Korean BBQ

Gogi Guys Korean BBQ offers a fresh, creative and respectful interpretation of Korean cuisine. Enjoy the wide variety of fresh meat grilled right at your table. Their all-you-can-eat menu features favorites like beef and pork bulgogi, brisket, ribeye, pork belly, soy garlic pork chop and chicken, garlic shrimp, squid and more.

Hank’s Filling Station

This backyard hangout on North Colley is known for their fun and games, including foosball, giant Connect 4, ping pong and more. One thing they don’t play around with, however, is their barbecue, which is smoked right in the backyard. Choose from Hank’s pulled pork, smoked chicken or vegan jackfruit for a tasty BBQ plate or sandwich. Enjoy these same barbecue options sprinkled atop a plate of Totchos, crispy, air-fried tots with Hank’s BBQ sauce, beer cheese, pickled jalapeños and onions. Feeding the whole family? Opt for a BBQ or Brisket Family Pack to enjoy a quart of smoked pulled pork or brisket with all the fixings from the comfort of your own backyard.

Mojo Bones

Mojo Bones is where the barbecue is sticky, the pulled pork is juicy, and the sweet tea is extra sweet! Mojo serves up all your barbecue favorites such as slow-smoked brisket and tender, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs. To increase the mojo, they offer more than 40 craft and domestic beers to pair with your favorite barbecue options.

RedWood Smoke Shack

Bob Roberts, pitmaster and owner of Redwood Smoke Shack, is a creative thinker who turned his part-time hobby into a full-time profession. Redwood Smoke Shack is a Texas-inspired barbecue joint located in the historic Ghent neighborhood serving up delicious dishes packed with flavor! Customers can become involved in the process by selecting and assembling barbecue meats and sides to make it just the way you like it. Featuring beef brisket, pulled pork and ribs, Redwood is indeed a barbecue lover’s dream. Check out their daily specials for a real treat.

Sam’s Texas Sub Shop

Update August 2024: Better hurry in fast, as sadly, Sam’s has announced it will close by the end of the month.

Sam’s is a hidden gem serving up killer subs, like the fan favorite: Black & Blue featuring slow roasted brisket, blackened seasoning, blue cheese, onions, mushrooms, and mayo. Other popular options are The Everything Homemade BBQ, signature brisket slow cooked in Texas-style barbecue sauce and topped with coleslaw, and Sam’s Famous Brisket Chili served with cheese, onions and sour cream. Watch them on City With Bite!

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16 July 2024

The Best International Cuisine in Norfolk, VA (According to the Locals)

You will quickly find that Norfolk is a melting pot of cultures originating from its Naval base and large shipping port; resulting in lots of authentic international cuisine. With more independently owned restaurants per capita than almost any city in the US, it is difficult to highlight all the amazing international foods we have to offer so here are some local favorites to help get you started! 

La Brioche

Recently relocated to the heart of Norfolk’s Ghent District, La Brioche has quickly grown into a favorite French café among locals and visitors alike. Before moving to Norfolk from France, the bakery’s owner, Jacqueline, would consistently visit her sister in the 757 and ask, “where can I get a good croissant?” The simple question eventually sparked the idea for her and her husband to open a bakery of their own in Norfolk. Now the aroma of freshly baked bread will hit you as you open the front door while the owner’s personalities are overly welcoming. Find freshly baked croissants, chocolate and almond flavored eclairs, daily sandwich options and of course, classic warm baguettes to go. 

@_nomarama_, Instagram

Mr. Shawarma

Served cafeteria-style, Mr. Shawarma is arguably the best Middle Eastern street food in the area, offering fresh falafel, warm pita bread and flavored hummus including spicy Jalapeno Cilantro and Habanero Chili. You can also choose classic sauces to top your meal like Garlic Sauce, Tahini dressing and Amba Sauce (a pickled mango sauce with a mildly, spicy kick) to enhance the flavor palate and bring an extra richness to your dish. Not sure how to create the best tasting pita or bowl? Ask one of their friendly staff members for recommendations and they will be happy to help!

Yummy Wok

For many, Christmas dinner means ham or roast beef, gently carved at the family dinner table while festive trimmings adorn the table. For others, Yummy Wok is THE go-to place for a holiday meal, or any time of year, for that matter. Tucked away on Brandon Ave. just off Colley Ave. in the ever-walkable Ghent neighborhood, Yummy Wok serves up authentic (and delicious) Chinese fare such as Wonton soup, fried rice, chop suey, chow mein, lo mein and an endless list of meat dishes most days from lunch until 10 p.m. (10:30 p.m. on weekends.)

French Bakery & Delicatessen

This Lebanese deli and bakery has been family-owned-and-operated for the past 111 years serving traditional classic deli sandwiches that pair with some of the sweetest dessert treats. You will find owner, George Habid Jr., behind the counter keeping his family tradition alive by pouring his heart and soul into each customer’s order including their most known, melt-in-your-mouth, pastrami sandwiches. Each one is made with homemade french bread that is baked in the original stone oven. Inside you will find what feels like a simpler time with black-and-white family photos personalizing the walls, a retro Coca-Cola refrigerator and glass display cases showing off dozens of sweet treats. Local tip: the orange donuts are to die for and sell out quickly each day, so get there early!

Luce

Luce’s intimate setting that is paired with a contemporary twist on authentic Italian food makes it the ideal place for a romantic evening downtown. Their food profiles are exquisite, taking inspiration from both the northern and southern regions of Italy. Some of their favorites include Mushroom Toast (Portobello, white and cremini mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, truffle oil, porcini dust and Madera), Wild Boar Ragu (Ground Cinghiale ragu over our house made tagliatelle pasta topped with roasted pulled Cinghiale with rosemary infused oil) and of course, all the divine desserts. Their dessert menu is ever changing but to put it simply, it’s molto buono!

Crudo Nudo

At Crudo Nudo, you will find yourself asking, “should I nibble on a classic Catalan tapa (spinach, raisins and pine nuts), or dig into a plate full of Charred Spanish Octopus?” Lucky for you, Chef-owner, Eric Nelson has “A Taste of Spain” option on the menu that highlights the best tapas for sampling. Eric has always loved the simplistic flavor profiles of Spanish cuisine and wanted to share the culture’s food with his Norfolk community. You’ll find cod prepared several ways on the menu since this is Eric and his wife’s fish dish from their honeymoon in Spain. Don’t forget to quench your thirst with Spanish wines and chilled cervezas and to please your sweet tooth with espressos and crème de Catalan.

@heatheraee, Instagram

Grace O’Malleys Irish Pub

Norfolk’s only Irish pub, Grace O’Malley’s is centrally located in the heart of downtown and arguably the most authentic international restaurant in the city. Everything in the pub was shipped directly from Ireland; the mahogany woodwork, the light fixtures and even the tile. The owners were determined to give customers a true Irish experience and exceeded expectations with their imported atmosphere, authentic menu and live Irish performers of Gaelic song and dance – you truly feel like you’re in Ireland. Devour traditional dishes like Shepherd’s Pie, made with homemade Guinness brown gravy or their Corned Beef Irish Sub, made with their signature Paddy Old Irish Whiskey sauce. Pair your meal with Guinness and before you know it you’ll be saying, “Top o’ the mornin’ to ya!” 

Monastery Restaurant

This Czechoslovakian restaurant has lived on Granby Street for over 30 years, making it one of Norfolk’s oldest and most beloved restaurants. Its brick exterior and stained glass facade blend beautifully into Granby Street’s historic esthetic. Once you locate the restaurant, open the rustic wooden door and you will immediately feel like you stepped into a traditional European dining room. With its dark wooden modelings, dimmed chandeliers, wooden antique chairs, deep red table cloths paired with fresh smells of homemade goulash and owners Adolf and Anna welcoming you into their beloved establishment, you will no longer need to jump on a plane to get a taste of Eastern Europe. Their menu items are tantalizing, and classic dishes await like their La Raclette Valaisienne appetizer (crisped Raclette cheese served on a sizzling plate with lyonnaise potatoes, capers and thinly sliced pickles), Wiener Schnitzel, Cassoulet Maison (a rich, slow-cooked navy bean casserole containing beef, artisan ham and homemade smoked sausage which gives it a rich smoky flavor). End your meal with a sweet bite, a warm Palacinki which comes stuffed with seasonal fruit and cottage cheese.

Tamarind

Tucked among shopping malls in our Military Highway neighborhood, Tamarind is an unpretentious restaurant serving up the most authentic – and only – Indian street food in the area – Chaat. Chaat is an assorted savory snack typically served at every roadside track, from big outlets to small carts in India, Pakistan and rest of South Asia. Their menu may be intimidating to those who have never dipped their taste buds into Indian street food before, but rest assured, this family-owned and operated restaurant will guide you through any hesitations and answer any questions you may have. Try dishes like their Samosa, a crispy pastry stuffed with cumin potato, peas, coriander and served with tamarind and mint chutney, Gobi Manchurian, cauliflower coated in a Manchurian sauce which is made from scratch, or settle for a classic Curry Chicken with Rice. And while an Indian restaurant’s curry spiced air sparks memories of flavorsome meals, it’s their scrumptious homemade cuisine they purposely brought to Norfolk that will keep you coming back for more.

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