Diners' Choice: Good for special occasions restaurants in Norfolk / Virginia Beach

OpenTable

Updated January 05, 2025

Looking for the best special occasion restaurants in Norfolk / Virginia Beach? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Coastal Grill

4.9

4.9 (3908)

$30 and under

Seafood

Virginia Beach

About the restaurant

Classic, consistent, upscale cuisine is offered in a well-appointed, unpretentious setting in this top-notch nosherie. The beautiful bar invites easy conversation and casual dining. Located on the affluent Great Neck corridor in Virginia Beach, just three miles from the Oceanfront, Coastal Grill is as famous for what isn't on the menu as for what actually is. Owner Jerry Bryan with Executive Chef Maureen Cucchiaro and Chef de Cusine Brad Bates at the stove, offer an extensive list of "blackboard specials," always with a nice assortment of freshly caught regional seafood. This locals favorite has received critical acclaim since its inception over 25 years ago, culminating in being voted the Number 1 Restaurant by Hampton Roads Magazine. With amazing food and exemplary service, Coastal Grill is a sure bet for business dinners, special occasions, or simply unwinding after a hard day. Come celebrate with us!

Top review

Darrin

Dined 6 days ago

Absolutely great experience from the moment we arrived. Adam was a great waiter. Attentive throughout the service. Every meal had incredible flavor. Acorn squash were perfect. Will be going back again.

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Chef's Kitchen & Cocktails

4.9

4.9 (340)

$50 and over

American

Norfolk

About the restaurant

At only 65 seats, Chef's has an intimate but edgy ambiance and an eclectic dining experience. Located on Colley Avenue, Chef’s Kitchen & Cocktails offers an upscale but comfortable, quality dining experience.

Please leave children at home and enjoy the atmosphere.
(ADULTS ONLY!)

Top review

Angela

Dined 5 days ago

Everything was 10/10. Thursdays is ladies night with martinis only $8. We got the salmon egg rolls, and calamari for appetizers and filets for our entrees. Blueberry lemon drops were amazing! We’ll definitely be back

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4.8

4.8 (551)

$30 and under

American

Norfolk

About the restaurant

219 Bistro is centrally located in the vibrant downtown district of Norfolk VA. Open Wednesday - Saturday, offering Happy Hour 4pm - 6pm. Join us for the best outdoor dining in downtown Norfolk. Our menu features are sure to please everyone offering innovative appetizers, burgers, tacos and chef inspired entrées.

Top review

Dana

Dined 4 days ago

Great food and atmosphere. Highly recommend their menu.

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Popular dish

GRILLED SALMON

Mannino's Italian Bistro - Kempsville

4.8

4.8 (1330)

$30 and under

Italian

Virginia Beach

About the restaurant

The experienced Culinary team of Chefs John R. Mannino & John M. Mannino (Father & Son Respectively) have partnered with Sommelier Daris Gavin to open New "Olde World Style" Italian Bistros. The goal was to give patrons Great Italian food at a reasonable price point with wine choices to match. We… are sure that the Mannino’s Italian Bistro Family will work with great passion & attention to detail to try and ensure that our guest develop a sense of home and comfort while enjoying their dining experience. John R. spent time at many restaurants both locally (Nicholas’ at the Omni, La Bella Italia, Café Society {Executive Chef}, Bodegas & 456 Fish) and nationally (Lacey’s Restaurant/ Manhattan & East of Athens/ Long Island). John M Mannino is an Honors Graduate of Culinary Institute of America. He was the Executive Chef of Bodega & 4 5 6 Fish prior to opening Mannino's. John M also won the Inaugural 2012 Taste of Hamptonroads Iron Chef competition.

Top review

Ally

Dined on Jan 6, 2025

The setting was quiet and relaxing. Our server was very attentive and the food was fantastic. Even the other staff that assisted were very kind and complimentary towards us. It was my friend’s first time and I definitely think she will be returning with her loved ones, especially on half price bottle Mondays!

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Yiannis Wine and Food

4.8

4.8 (333)

$50 and over

Wine Bar

Virginia Beach

About the restaurant

We have a passion for delicious bites and even better wine. Founded by Ioannis Choutris in 2011, we developed a niche for procuring hard-to-find labels and vintages from around the world. Over time, our drive towards excellence allowed us to grow into a full-service kitchen. We specialize in high-quality cuts from the land and sea, while also maintaining our commitment to finding that perfect wine for any occasion. Featuring chef-crafted specials, unique flavors, and beautiful wines to pair, our staff is sure to impress during your next visit!

Top review

ChristopherVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Yiannis is a restaurant that truly awakens your taste buds. We visited on a Tuesday for their “Burgers and Bourbon” special and were blown away by the Dry Aged Wagyu Burger topped with bacon jam. The flavor was unmatched, and knowing the patties are freshly ground from wagyu chuck—not frozen—made it even better. We had the chance to speak with the owner, Yiannis, who shared his passion for the process, and it’s clear his dedication pays off. The bourbon and wine selection is one of the best we’ve encountered in Virginia Beach. Coming from Northern California, where food and spirits are part of our culture, Yiannis made us feel right at home with his exceptional offerings and warm hospitality.

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Popular dish

Filet Mignon

The Rustic Spoon - Red Mill

4.8

4.8 (154)

$30 and under

Comfort Food

Virginia Beach

About the restaurant

Partners and long-time friends, Ryan Hines and Jay Kulas believe that the most important moments in life are about building relationships and usually involve a great meal. Maintaining a friendship for over fifteen years, the two shared a common approach when it came to opening a restaurant - to create a warm and comfortable atmosphere for friends and family to gather, curate experiences and build meaningful connections. Stripping away the formalities of the typical dining experience, The Rustic Spoon is serving up breakfast, brunch and lunch while focusing on quality local ingredients, family recipes, warm service and a relaxed causal ambiance. Rooted in family, friends and food they offer diners a one of a kind atmosphere to enjoy comfort food recipes with a modern and local twist.

Top review

Penny

Dined on Dec 24, 2024

This has been our go to place since we found it. Never disappoint.

Privilege

4.8

4.8 (99)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Portsmouth

About the restaurant

Privilege Restaurant is an upscale gem, nestled in the heart of Olde Towne Portsmouth that caters to individuals 21 and older only. Our menu fuses the best of steakhouses and seafood, offering a refined culinary experience. Savor handcrafted cocktails that complement our exquisite dishes in our elegant ambiance. Join us for live entertainment on select nights, adding a touch of vibrancy to your evening.

Reserve your spot at Privilege for a night of culinary excellence and indulgence.

Top review

DeShonna

Dined on Jan 5, 2025

Went there for my bday dinner. Food and drinks were amazing. DJ was lit. The whole place is a vibe. If you are making a reservation be very accurate with your count. Overall we had a great time and will be returning.

Byrd and Baldwin Bros. Steakhouse

4.7

4.7 (2043)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Norfolk

About the restaurant

Byrd & Baldwin Bros Steakhouse was conceived and executed with a no-compromise philosophy, rewarding guests with a memorable dining experience. We are a fine dining restaurant offering the finest service and cuisine in Hampton Roads Virginia. Join us for a unique experince and enjoy selections from our award winning wine list and premium spirits selection.

Top review

foodfinder

Dined 4 days ago

Franc was an excellent waiter as well as the rest of the staff.

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Popular dish

She Crab Soup

Popular dish

8oz Cold Water Lobster Tail

Popular dish

New York Style Cheesecake

Waters Edge Winery Norfolk

4.4

4.4 (64)

$50 and over

Winery

Norfolk

About the restaurant

Welcome to Waters Edge Winery of Norfolk! Founded from a deep love for wine, food, and family, our craft winery offers a unique experience. Owned by Jason & Dyan Witt, both passionate about hospitality and quality, we aim to make every visit memorable. Jason's business acumen and global wine knowledge, along with Dyan's marketing expertise, ensure a warm and inviting atmosphere. From our marketplace to bottling parties, we strive for guests to feel like family, learn about wine, and spread joy. Our diverse selection includes popular varietals and rare finds sourced globally from top grape growing regions, such as California, Italy, and France.

Top review

Alberta

Dined 5 days ago

This is such cool place to spend time with friends and family. Our waitress was knowledgeable about items on the menu, so friendly and accommodating. My friend couldn’t eat sesame seed buns so the waitress switched it out a regular bun. She also suggested the almond sparkling wine which was a great choice. The singer that evening sang familiar songs that we could all sing along to which created a fun experience for everyone. Edge Winery is beautifully designed and has a great ambiance. My friends and I will definitely be revisiting this restaurant for the various events and delicious food.

Founders Inn Swan Terrace Grill

4.0

4 (766)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Virginia Beach

About the restaurant

*PLEASE CALL THE RESTAURANT FOR AVAILABILITY IF UNABLE TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATION ONLINE*
Founders Inn Swan Terrace Grill presents an American Grill House menu combining the freshest product from Virginia’s best artisans. Our Award Winning Culinary team expertly creates dishes inspired by the culinary heritage of Virginia and the Eastern Seaboard. Please call for large reservations. *Special events subject to change. Please call to see what's new!*

Top review

Ken

Dined on Dec 25, 2024

Elegant, Many food choices, great service, Third Christmas to take family and friend

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