Virginia Beach offers a diverse culinary scene, and finding healthy options is easier than ever. This article explores a variety of restaurants that prioritize fresh, quality ingredients, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. From establishments emphasizing locally-sourced seafood and produce to those specializing in vegan and gluten-free options, Virginia Beach ensures a nutritious and delicious dining experience for health-conscious individuals.
Restaurants with a Focus on Fresh, Local Ingredients
Several restaurants in Virginia Beach pride themselves on using locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful dishes. These establishments often highlight the region's seafood and produce, providing a true taste of Virginia.
Commune
Commune embodies the spirit of community and fresh, locally-sourced food. The name itself reflects this philosophy: "Commune" translates to both the smallest territorial division in French and a group of people coming together in English. Customers rave about the fresh, quick, and delicious food, noting that almost everything (except the coffee) is locally sourced. The seasonal menu ensures that only the freshest ingredients are used, and the service is consistently impeccable. The restaurant's ambiance, filled with plants and natural light, adds to the overall positive dining experience. Commune is ideal for breakfast and offers a varied menu with items for family dining.
Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill
Inspired by seaside health trends and farmer’s markets, Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill offers a fresh and healthy alternative to traditional Oceanfront dining. The restaurant combines premium, locally-sourced ingredients with a relaxed, natural environment. Tulu's menu features pressed juices, power bowls, over-sized salads, and regional elements, presenting a bright and innovative take on American fare. The modern bar offers an extensive wine list, Virginia craft beers, and signature cocktails from Virginia Beach’s own Tarnished Truth Distilling Co. The restaurant also boasts an eye-catching patio and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Coastal Grill
Coastal Grill is a seafood restaurant renowned for its consistently high quality, fresh seafood, and excellent service. Customers frequently commend the food for being fresh, well-prepared, and delicious. The restaurant also accommodates customers with food allergies. The menu includes a variety of 'blackboard specials,' indicating a focus on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
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Rockafeller's
Located on Rudee Inlet, Rockafeller's is a landmark seafood restaurant in Virginia Beach. It offers a casual atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh local seafood, steaks, pasta, and sandwiches. Rockafeller's is also committed to sustainability, being one of the first Virginia Green restaurants.
Eurasia
Eurasia is a hidden gem at the Virginia Beach oceanfront, offering farm-to-table cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, driven by the availability of fresh seafood. To complement the food, Eurasia offers local beers on tap and a selection of wines by the glass.
Mizuno Japanese Restaurant
Mizuno Japanese Restaurant, a family-run business since 1996, is located in a seafood hotspot. Chef-owner Wataru Mizuno leverages the restaurant's access to local sources, composing daily specials that feature fresh shrimp, yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, flounder, blue crabs, and oysters. Mizuno's culinary philosophy emphasizes simplicity, using minimal sauces and ingredients to highlight the natural flavors of the seafood.
Restaurants Catering to Specific Dietary Needs
For those with specific dietary requirements, Virginia Beach offers several restaurants with options catering to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Clean Eatz
Clean Eatz, located on Independence Blvd, is a healthy food restaurant that offers a variety of delicious and affordable options. The dine-in cafe menu includes burgers, wraps, flatbreads, meltz, and build-your-own bowls. The restaurant also offers meal plans, Grab ‘N’ Go meals, protein smoothies, healthy snacks, and catering. Most meals are under 500 calories.
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Roots Natural Kitchen
Roots Natural Kitchen focuses on providing tasty, filling, and nutritious bowls in a fast-casual setting. The menu features a variety of grain bowls and salads with customizable options. Roots emphasizes natural ingredients and offers a convenient app for pre-ordering.
Zoes Steak & Seafood
Zoes Steak & Seafood offers a variety of healthy options, including a 'From the Garden' section on their menu, featuring dishes like the 'Kale & Chioggia Beet Salad'. The restaurant also offers a 'Substitute Fries with Vegetables' option on their kid's menu.
Fine Dining with Healthy Options
Even in fine dining establishments, healthy choices are available. These restaurants often use high-quality ingredients and offer lighter fare alongside their more indulgent dishes.
Aldo's Ristorante
Since 1988, Aldo's Ristorante has been an Italian fine dining restaurant and wine bar. It offers locally sourced seafood and produce daily, with some gluten-free options available.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
While known for its USDA Prime steaks, Ruth's Chris Steak House also offers fresh seafood, signature side dishes, and homemade desserts.
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Isle of Capri
Isle of Capri elevates the dining experience with a carefully selected menu of international wines paired with Italian entrees and antipasti.
Casual Dining with a Healthy Twist
For a more relaxed dining experience, several restaurants offer healthy options without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Zeke’s
Zeke’s combines poké, açaí, and craft coffee under one roof. The restaurant is known for its super fresh and tasty ingredients, quick service, and awesome staff. The fish is fresh, flavorful, and the açaí bowls are top-notch.
Additional Dining Options and Experiences
Chef's Kitchen & Cocktails
Chef's Kitchen & Cocktails offers an American cuisine with a price range considered very expensive.
The Tasting Table at Shadowlawn Eats
The Tasting Table at Shadowlawn Eats hosts events like bourbon tasting dinners, featuring a four-course meal and a curated bourbon tasting.
Special Events and Holiday Dining
Many restaurants in Virginia Beach offer special menus and events for holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.
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