If you find yourself searching for the best breakfast in Virginia Beach, you’re not alone. I’ve wandered the morning streets here, chilly ocean breeze in my face, the promise of good coffee around every corner. What I discovered is a city that takes its breakfast spread seriously—think fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit, and the crispy edges of hash browns done right. Virginia Beach’s breakfast scene has both classics and surprises, all delivered with local flair.
Some of my most memorable mornings began with the clatter of mugs, the gentle hum of conversation, and the aroma of eggs sizzling on the griddle. From breezy waterfront hideaways to cozy little diners, this city spoils you for choice. Whether you crave a hearty Southern feast or something on the lighter side, the cafés and bistros here know how to start your day with purpose. Get ready; your best breakfast in Virginia Beach is out there, waiting on a sunlit patio or tucked into a busy main street.
1. Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill
+1 757-937-4258
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Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill brings a refreshing twist to the usual Oceanfront breakfast. The natural light, sweeping views of the Atlantic, and open patio instantly set the mood. It’s always buzzing with folks who know a good breakfast sets the tone for the day.
My mornings here start with one of their vibrant power bowls—layers of sweet fruit, crisp granola, and creamy Greek yogurt. The Avocado Toast topped with pickled onions and microgreens is proof that simple doesn’t have to mean boring. You can’t ignore the pressed juices, either; they’re as fresh as the sea breeze.
If you want to ease into the day with fresh, clean flavors, Tulu finds that perfect spot between healthy and hearty. It’s the spot for a leisurely morning that feels like a treat.
2. Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill
+1 757-228-3111
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Arbuckle’s Bar & Grill serves up breakfast with a touch of Old Hollywood charm and a breezy, contemporary twist. The atmosphere hints at glamorous gatherings from the past, but here, it’s all about relaxed mornings and satisfying plates.
I often gravitate toward their South End Omelet—packed with vegetables and gooey cheese—that manages to be both decadent and fresh. The griddle selections, like the thick-cut French toast, are legendary for good reason. Whether you’re waking up slow or fueling up before a beach stroll, there’s something here that fits the mood.
They offer vegan and gluten-free options, keeping everyone at the table happy. Arbuckle’s nails that blend of nostalgia and comfort, making it an easy favorite for a satisfying Virginia Beach breakfast.
3. The Bee & The Biscuit
The Bee & The Biscuit has mastered cozy charm, tucked away in a cottage with a flower-filled porch that makes every breakfast feel like a weekend retreat. The buzz starts early, with locals and visitors flocking for plates heaped with fresh, satisfying fare.
I’ll never forget their Honeybee Biscuit—a pillow-soft biscuit topped with house-made preserves. The Sweet Potato Pancakes are a revelation, soft on the inside and with just the right hint of cinnamon. Their seasonal fruit bowls always feel like a celebration of whatever’s fresh from nearby farms.
Gluten-free and vegan options abound, so everyone gets a seat at the table. The Bee & The Biscuit is where comfort and creativity meet for breakfast worth waiting for.
4. Becca Restaurant & Garden
Becca Restaurant & Garden sits at the heart of The Cavalier, where refined mornings meet lush, garden-filled views. Every detail, from the sunlight on the terrace to the herbs snipped fresh from their garden, feels intentional here. There’s an easy balance of elegance and comfort in every visit.
I always return for their Garden Omelet—fluffy eggs folded with seasonal greens and a sprinkle of local cheese. Their fresh fruit platters and steel-cut oats with berries take simplicity to another level. Brunch in the garden on a slow morning, and it’s easy to forget anything beyond the table.
Vegan and gluten-free breakfasts are never an afterthought. At Becca, the menu celebrates what’s fresh, making every bite taste like spring in Virginia Beach.
5. Bay Local
Bay Local radiates laid-back coastal vibes, with welcoming staff and a menu that wakes up even the sleepiest appetite. The atmosphere is always lively, and regulars know this is where breakfast comfort classics get a playful upgrade.
I can never resist their “Bay Benedict” — a local twist on the traditional, stacked high with perfectly poached eggs, creamy hollandaise, and fresh tomato on a soft biscuit. Their avocado toast bursts with flavor, finished with house-pickled vegetables for a tangy kick.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices are more than an afterthought here. If you find yourself craving big flavors and a neighborhood feel, Bay Local makes breakfast an occasion worth lingering over.
6. Doc Taylor’s Restaurant
Doc Taylor’s Restaurant feels like slipping into an old friend’s beach house—friendly, relaxed, and dotted with local history. The vintage décor and walls covered with stories invite you to linger, coffee in hand, while the buzz of breakfast regulars fills the room.
I keep coming back for the Veggie Omelet — always packed with bell peppers, spinach, and tomatoes, folded into fluffy eggs. Their grits are creamy and just right, ideal on a chilly morning near the oceanfront. The portions here are generous, but the prices never stretch your wallet.
Vegetarian and gluten-free choices keep things inclusive. At Doc Taylor’s, classic Southern breakfast is always within arm’s reach, but with a local story in every bite.
7. Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House
Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House delivers breakfast nostalgia in a setting that’s both family-friendly and packed with character. The log cabin-style décor and mural walls are conversation starters on their own, but it’s the massive griddle aroma wafting outside that pulls you in.
My go-to is the Blueberry Pancakes—fluffy, golden, and bursting with berries, needing only a drizzle of syrup. If you lean more savory, try their vegetable omelets stuffed with fresh peppers and mushrooms. The waffles, crisp outside with a tender bite, get high marks from regulars, too.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options mean nobody gets left out. If you’re after a cheerful spot known for generous plates and warm service, Pocahontas won’t disappoint.
8. Sunnyside Cafe & Restaurant
Sunnyside Cafe & Restaurant brightens up even the cloudiest Virginia Beach mornings with its cheerful energy and fresh, made-to-order menu. The place always feels like a local favorite—where friends linger over coffee and the scent of pancakes seems permanent.
I make a beeline for their Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, which are both light and filling, or their Garden Omelet loaded with spinach, tomatoes, and melty cheese. Their fresh fruit plates look and taste like summer, an easy choice for a lighter start. On busy days, a veggie wrap or breakfast panini travels nicely when you’re headed to the beach.
Gluten-free and health-minded options abound, so you never feel limited. At Sunnyside, breakfast feels welcoming and infinitely adaptable.
9. Citrus Breakfast and Lunch
Citrus Breakfast and Lunch specializes in bright starts and bold flavors, making it a go-to for locals who crave more than the usual eggs and toast. The vibe is fresh and friendly, filled with sunshine-yellow decor and the lively chatter of happy diners.
I find myself drawn back for their Lemon Poppyseed Pancakes—delicate and zesty, with just the right sweetness. For something heartier, the Veggie Sunrise Omelet stands out, packed with local produce and a touch of citrus for a unique finish. The fresh-squeezed juices here wake you up better than any alarm clock.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes are highlights rather than afterthoughts. At Citrus, breakfast is a daily celebration of what’s fresh and flavorful in Virginia Beach.
10. Swan Terrace Restaurant
+1 757-366-5777
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Swan Terrace Restaurant gives breakfast a stately Southern twist inside the Founders Inn and Spa. The dining room, with its Colonial-inspired decor and fireplace, makes every meal feel a bit like a celebration. Out on the lakeside terrace, mornings stretch on with birdsong and sunlight.
I always arrive hungry for the Signature Breakfast Buffet. It’s overflowing with seasonal fruit, crisp potatoes, and fluffy scrambled eggs. Their griddle items have a homemade touch that sets them apart. On weekends, the buffet opens up to include garden-fresh vegetables and extra bakery treats.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections make the spread inviting for all. For those hunting a refined yet approachable take on breakfast, Swan Terrace gets every detail right.
More Things to Try in Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for breakfast in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach has options for every mood, from cozy gems like The Bee & The Biscuit to oceanfront dining at Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill or Bay Local’s laid-back comfort classics.
Are there vegan or gluten-free breakfast choices in Virginia Beach?
Absolutely. Many spots, including Becca Restaurant & Garden and Citrus Breakfast and Lunch, offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free selections alongside their usual menu.
Where can I get breakfast near the Virginia Beach oceanfront?
Check out Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill, Doc Taylor’s Restaurant, and Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House—all within easy reach of the oceanfront and serving morning favorites.
Do local breakfast restaurants in Virginia Beach get crowded on weekends?
Popular places like The Bee & The Biscuit and Bay Local often have waits, especially on weekends. Arriving early or on a weekday usually means a shorter wait.
Are there breakfast spots with outdoor seating?
Yes—many places offer patio or terrace seating. Try Tulu Seaside Bar & Grill, Becca Restaurant & Garden, or Swan Terrace Restaurant for meals with a view.
What’s a unique local breakfast dish I should try?
Look for specialties with a coastal twist, like Bay Local’s signature Benedicts or the sweet potato pancakes at The Bee & The Biscuit. Local, seasonal ingredients shine on many menus.
