Neighborhood Bars & Pubs 

CoVa Dining Guide: Welcome to some of our favorites watering holes around the region

As we were working on this annual “Best Of” edition of Coastal Virginia Magazine, we initially had an idea to do a feature and guide focused on local dive bars. While many of us have a genuine appreciation—even an abiding affection—for a good dive bar, we were also aware that the folks behind the scenes at some establishments may take umbrage with that description.  

That got us to thinking about what defines the kind of low-key restaurant, lounge, pub, bar, dive, hole in the wall, hangout or hotspot where, as they famously sang in the theme song for the 1980s hit sitcom Cheers, “everybody knows your name”?  

As we were pondering that question, we learned of the passing of George Wendt, the actor who played the affable Norm Peterson on Cheers for more than a decade, cementing his place in TV history and in the hearts of all those who know the joy of a cold pint and a pep talk from your favorite bartender. 

Norm’s famous greeting from the staff and regulars—”Norm!”— was always followed by a delightfully sarcastic quip about his unapologetic love for the suds. But ultimately Cheers, like any great neighborhood bar and pub, was about the people. People like Norm and the relationships they forged with one another.

And that’s how we landed on the description “Neighborhood Bars & Pubs,” an imaginary Venn Diagram for which includes separate but overlapping terms for these kinds of establishments that embody a wide variety of vibes. The common denominator? Good people and good times.  

Included in this expanded edition of Coastal Virginia Magazine’s CoVa Dining Guide are some honest-to-goodness dive bars, and there is not a darn thing wrong with that. The food will fill you up, the beer is cheap and sometimes that’s all you want or need. 

Others are attractively designed, well maintained, family-friendly establishments serving genuinely tasty, freshly made food, creative cocktails, local craft brews and more. Some have sporty vibes, club vibes, beachy vibes, biker vibes, historic vibes, indie vibes or trendy vibes. 

But they are all “Come as you are,” and leave the pretense at the door. They’re all open at least somewhat late-ish. They’re all local, of course. And they all reflect something about the places where they are located and the people you might meet while you’re there. 

Hope you enjoy and see you at the bar.

—Leona Baker

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AJ Gator’s Sports Bar & Grill

Multiple Locations 

With seven locations spanning Coastal Virginia, AJ Gator’s is your go-to sports bar for great food, nail-biting games and ice-cold beers. AJ Gator’s offers catering services too, so you take the famous AJ Gators Tail to-go or savor filet mignon steak bites and cocktails in one of the restaurant’s indoor and outdoor dining spaces. gatorssportsbar.com 

The Arbor Sub & Pub

Chesapeake  

If you’re in the mood for sammies and suds, The Arbor Sub & Pub in Deep Creek serves up plenty of both in a cozy atmosphere. Between their Arbor Famous Butt BBQ Sandwich with coleslaw and Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce, Taco Tuesdays and Shrimp Nights, you won’t go hungry while you’re catching a game, a race or maybe a cornhole tournament. thearborsub.com

The Back Deck

Virginia Beach  

This dockside bar on Shore Drive offers some of the greatest views in the 757. Pair sunsets with coastal-inspired cocktails, local brews and traditional beach fare. Think signature orange crushes and crab dip or frothy brews and flatbreads. The Back Deck also features rolling garage doors, allowing visitors to enjoy its shoreline vibe all year long. thebackdeckvb.com 

The Barrel Room

Chesapeake   

More akin to a speakeasy than a local pub, The Barrel Room pairs elevated bar bites with classic cocktails infused with fine liquors. Playful duos appear in the form of smoked gouda dip and a Barrel Room Old Fashioned as well seared ahi tuna nachos and a splash of sparkling wine. thebarrelroomva.com 

Baron’s Pub

Multiple Locations 

With historic locations in Downtown Suffolk and Olde Towne Portsmouth, Baron’s Pub has that classic dark wood ambience you crave for a pint and a bite. Whether you are in the home of Mr. Peanut or on High Street, you’ll find plenty to satisfy—from Fried Oysters to Mile High Nachos, Dirty Chips to Shrimp Quesadillas. And of course, “the best burgers…period.” baronspub.com

Beach Pub 

Virginia Beach

Laskin Road has undergone some massive changes, but the comforts of the 47-year-old Beach Pub remain the same. Breakfast is served until 2 p.m., so you can roll right into lunch or stick around for happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. on weeknights. Pub favorites include blackened tuna bites, buffalo fried shrimp and homemade pimento cheese. beachpubvb.com 

The Bier Garden 

Portsmouth  

It’s hard to miss this Olde Towne landmark and its signature blue and white striped awning, but what’s inside has been just as famous over the last 25 years. Namely, authentic Southern German cuisine—think Bratwurst, Rolladen, Goulash and potato salad—and an extensive and carefully curated beer menu that draws discerning hopheads. biergarden.com 

The Birch 

Norfolk 

Gourmet grilled cheese and craft beer? Say less! Norfolk’s The Birch offers a unique culinary experience in which visitors and residents of the Chelsea neighborhood (including those biking the ERT) can sit back, sip and savor dozens of artisanal pours like beer, mead, cider, wine and low ABV cocktails. Pair your libation with charcuterie Blueberry Hex grilled cheese. thebirchbar.com 

The Boulevard Pub

Newport News  

The new owners of this Warwick Blvd. hangout wanted to breathe new life into a dive bar while “keeping its authentic charm.” A revamped menu is stacked with tasty burgers, bites, Philly cheesesteaks, po boys, smoked meats, crab cakes, salads and more. Enjoy live music, karaoke, DJs, friendly faces, cold drinks and good vibes. theboulevardpub13361.com 

Brickhouse Tavern  

Multiple Locations  

A family-run, Italian-American tavern with locations in Newport News and Williamsburg, college students and regulars alike come for the easy-going atmosphere but also because they specialize in the pies. And who doesn’t love a good late-night pizza with pints? DJs, karaoke and dancing make it a party place for The Tribe on weekends. welcometobrickhouse.com

Bucketheads Beach Grill

Virginia Beach 

Cornhole and tacos? Say no more! Bucketheads Beach Grill is Shore Drive’s go-to spot for great food, great vibes and outdoor fun. Bucketheads is big on celebrations too and is known to ring in popular national food days like National French Fry Day, National Fajita Day and National IPA Day. Check their website for details. bucketheadsbeachgrillva.com 

Casey’s Pub 

Virginia Beach 

Shoot pool, throw darts and play digital bar games at this strip mall dive. Casey’s is also one of the few remaining establishments that allows smoking inside. Find your favorite domestic brew behind the bar or ask the bartender to mix you up a signature pour. Nosh on fries, tenders and more. On Instagram: @caseyspubvb 

Chick’s Oyster Bar

Virginia Beach 

Few places are as synonymous with Shore Drive as Chick’s Oyster Bar. Those Lynnhaven Inlet views, dockside picnic table seating, classic seafood steamers, raw bar, crab cakes, fried flounder, tacos, wings and an ever-expanding crush menu just feel like home. Their footprint has grown over the years, but the vibe is all VB all day. chicksoysterbar.com 

Chix on the Beach

Virginia Beach

Chix on the Beach is one of the Boardwalk’s lauded stops for sips and socializing. Join the bar crowd for shots and cocktails or dine al fresco on the Chix patio. This bar’s menu is loaded with seafood specialties and fresh-off-the-grill eats, plus a selection of deep-fried noshes perfect for late night bar hoppers. chixvb.com 

Colley Cantina 

Norfolk  

Like its namesake street in Ghent, the Cantina is a homing beacon for the hip and hungry with a hankering for a good Cal-Mex, cold cervezas and familiar faces. Cheery surf-inspired decor sets the mood for Cantina nachos, quesadillas, beer battered rockfish tacos, Mexican street corn, vegan options, margaritas and 20+ wine and beer taps. colleycantina.com 

Croc’s 19th Street Bistro

Virginia Beach 

An OG in the ViBe District, Croc’s has long welcomed locals to the bar, party people on Ladies Night, and everybody and their mothers for Sunday Drag Brunch. But, did you know their menu features an extensive wine list, Lebanese and other Mediterranean delights alongside bar bites, burgers, crab cakes, pasta and more? crocs19thstreetbistro.com

Derl’z Restaurant and Pub 

Suffolk 

If you’ve driven past this laid-back landmark on Suffolk’s Pinner Street and gotten a kick out of the name, you’ll probably get a kick out of the friendly fare, pool tables and good people on the inside. Live music, Texas Hold’em, karaoke, 99-cent wings and shrimp and other weekly specials will keep you coming back. derlz.com 

The Dirty Buffalo 

Multiple Locations 

Game Day or not, you can never go wrong with a round of pilsners and basket of wings. Get your hands dirty with the bar’s expansive selection of sauces and dry rubs. Grab your bites to-go or enjoy food and friends at one of The Dirty Buffalo’s four locations in Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach. thedirtybuffalo.com 

Duck Dive Tavern 

Virginia Beach 

Looking for a low-key Oceanfront experience? At Duck Dive Tavern, enjoy discounted eats during Taco Tuesday and Burger Night, or party with the late-night crowd on Fridays and Saturdays complete with live music and DJ performances. Duck Dive also hosts private events for birthday parties, bachelorette trips and other celebrations. On Instagram: @duckdivebar

Flip Flops VB Grill  

Virginia Beach  

If Guy Fieri deemed this joint worthy of Flavortown, you know it’s worth checking out. Garnering the attention of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives was Flip Flops’ signature BBQ Fish Tacos. The dish is one of several Caribbean-inspired dishes that grace the grill’s menu alongside other tropical bites like a Jamaican Jerk Wrap and Mango Habanero Tuna. flipflopsvb.com 

Footers Sports Pub 

Virginia Beach 

This neighborhood dive is a one-stop-shop for pints, bites and party games. Try your hand at billiards, golden tee and darts while soaking in the sports action broadcasted on 20 flatscreen TV’s. Footers is big on traditional bar bites too, so sink your teeth into beer-battered creations, cheesy tots, sauce-soaked wings and more. fspvb.com 

Green Leafe Cafe & Pub

Williamsburg 

If the 40+ beers, ciders and more on tap at this iconic pub serving William and Mary students, locals and visitors since 1974 doesn’t get you in the door, their “good food, good people” and “bad parking” just might. Serving a mixture of well-made and generously portioned comfort classics, beyond basic bar food and Greek specialties, you won’t go hungry. greenleafe.com

Green Parrot Grille

Virginia Beach  

Green Parrot Grille is one of the beach’s best kept secrets. This Chic’s Beach hole-in-the-wall bar is celebrated for its extended happy hour specials, running from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. seven days a week. The vibe is as laidback as the food is tasty and familiar. Think traditional bar bites with coastal flare. thegreenparrotgrille.com 

Griff’s Restaurant and Sports Lounge

Portsmouth 

A classic Olde Towne hangout, with another location on Portsmouth Blvd., Griff’s has that well-trodden, brick-walled, dimly lit bar vibe, all the basic munchies, wraps, sandwiches, burgers and comfort food entree specials. There are plenty of screens for catching games, pool tables, local music acts and DJ nights. On Facebook: Griff’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge 

Hilton Tavern Brewing

Newport News 

Given Hilton Village is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the U.S., a great little neighborhood bar like Hilton Tavern is a perfect fit. Offering 20+ local taps and a mouthwatering fresh-made menu that includes starters like Tavern Garlic Shrimp, Pork Belly Bites and OMG Totchos, they also feature a steady lineup of live music and open mics. On Facebook:
@hiltontavernbc 

HK on the Bay 

Virginia Beach 

Tucked away in residential Chic’s Beach is a bayside bar specializing in craft cocktails and from-scratch eats. With happy hour specials and half-priced wine nights, HK is ideal for date night, a girls’ outing and everything in between. Savor oysters on the half shell, steaks seared to perfection and a delicious Sunday Brunch spread. hkonthebay.com 

Just George’s Sports Bar

Virginia Beach 

While Captain George’s landmark seafood buffets are well known to visitors and locals, their Virginia Beach location boasts a sporty sidekick. Just George’s Sports Bar is attached to the Hilltop mother ship and features a full menu of fan faves, a killer happy hour, Oysters Rock, Shrimp Cocktail and all your teams on the screens. On Facebook: @justgeorges 

Keagan’s Irish Pub 

Virginia Beach  

Corned beef, beer-battered fish and other Irish staples await at Town Center’s favorite late night pub. Keagan’s features four distinct gathering spaces that cater to music lovers, beer connoisseurs, pool players and traditional pub goers. The Vice Bar, complete with billiards and flat screens, is particularly popular among cigar smokers and sports fans. keagansvb.com 

Krossroads Rock and Country Bar

Virginia Beach  

As casual and cozy as it gets, slip into a booth at this laid-back rock and country bar, located in a VB shopping center, have a beer or cocktail and order up some wings, steamed shrimp or crunchy beef tacos. Weekly specials, music bingo, trivia and sports on the screens mean there is always something rockin’ at Krossroads. On Facebook: Krossroads VB 

Lynnhaven Pub 

Virginia Beach 

Don’t be surprised if when you visit, Lynnhaven Pub offers standing room only. This dive may be small in size, but it’s big on action. Shoot pool or take at shot at pub’s the narrow bar. Wash down classic sharables like towering nachos and barbecue creations with your favorite domestic brew. On Facebook: @lynnhavenpub 

Marker 20 

Hampton  

“Downtown Hampton’s favorite watering hole since 2002,” Marker 20 is the epitome of a feel-good neighborhood bar—from the big wooden booths inside to the cool covered patio, this is the place to be with friends for their legendary Fish & Chips, Tuna Reuben, Big Ass Burger, Shipyard Fridays, Sunday Fundays, live bands and more. marker20.com 

MillCreek Tavern

Hampton 

Blink and you might miss this tiny brick tavern tucked between residences on Mallory Street. But if you like good old-fashioned eats like Mama makes, pull up a chair, grab a beer and hang with the regulars. A large burger menu includes the Honky-Tonk, Greek, Grilled Teriyaki, and Mushroom Swiss. There’s outside seating and pool tables, too. On Facebook: MillCreek Tavern

Mj’s Tavern 

Norfolk

A cornerstone of the LGBTQ+ community for more than a decade, Mj’s offers good food, friendly staff and a welcoming vibe for all. Scratch-made pub classics, soups, salad dressings and desserts in generous portions for a fair price make MJ’s stand out from the crowd. Check out their brunch, karaoke and trivia. The late-night party continues in The Shed. mjstavern.com 

Mona Lisa Restaurant & Bar

Norfolk 

If you like your dive bars with a serving of Hot & Spicy Pizza or Hawaiian Stromboli, Mona Lisa’s on Military Highway just might be your joint. Regulars love to wash down their classic subs, crinkle-cut fries, Baked Ziti or Stuffed Shells with cold brews and cool crushes. Check out their weekly specials, music bingo and live music on the patio. monalisarestaurantbar 

Murphy’s Irish Pub

Virginia Beach

Situated just blocks from the Boardwalk, Murphy’s is a beloved pitstop for locals and out-of-towners alike. Imbibe frothy pints of Guiness and forkfuls of Bangers & Mash all while rocking out to local musicians. With the city’s largest four-sided fireplace and a lively outdoor patio, Murphy’s is the place to be all year long. murphyspubvb.com 

Norfolk Taphouse 

Norfolk 

A Ghent mainstay known for its alternative and local music acts, sizable beer list and eclectic crowd, the Taphouse serves up no-nonsense pub food like burgers, fried mushrooms, tater tots and vegan options along with craft brews. Regulars and showgoers range widely in age, and many can be spotted on their outdoor patio. norfolktaphouse.com  

Old Beach Tavern

Virginia Beach 

Old Beach Tavern is neighborhood bar ideal for casual lunches, after-work libations and game day gatherings. Sink your teeth into mouthwatering handhelds, fresh salads and elevated entrees. Local musicians serenade late-night visitors on Friday and Saturday nights, while karaoke emcees and bingo hosts frequent the tavern on select weekdays. oldbeachtavern.com 

The OV Beach Tavern 

Norfolk 

Kick back and cool off after a day at the beach at this Ocean View hangout where live local bands, music bingo and sports specials mix well with Monday-Friday happy hour featuring $3 beers, wells and OVBT Shooters. Hungry? Start with some Salmon Dip or Tater Tot Nachos, build your own burger, savor the Southwest or Asian Rice Bowl or go big on brunch. theovbeachtavern.com 

Parklane Tavern

Multiple Locations 

With several Virginia locations including the Kempsville area and Peninsula Town Center,  Parklane has classic European tavern vibes, the polish of a national chain and the “everybody knows your name” factor of a local pub. Known for comfort fare like Bangers & Mash and Beef Wellington, they also serve a mean burger, wings, dips, salads and more. parklanetavern.com 

Peck & Pour

Norfolk 

Korean-American fusion is the name of the game at Peck & Pour. Wash down scrumptious rice bowls with local brews or pair Carolina tangy wings with a glass of vino. Enjoy discounted lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and other themed nights and special events on weekends. On Facebook.com: @pecknpour 

Pour Girls

Hampton 

The menu at this proudly woman-owned bar and grill on Queens Way in Hampton is loaded with local seafood, comfort foods, seasonal fare, fresh cocktails, craft beer and wine. Don’t be surprised when your PG Blackened Burger, an 8-ounce Certified Angus Beef patty on a glossy bun with LTO, comes with a side of “Chick Sticks” (fries). Their brunch game is strong and so is their commitment to showcasing live local music. pourgirlsbar.com 

Quirks

Virginia Beach 

Foodies rejoice! This aptly named bar is at the forefront of our region’s fresh and funky culinary scene. Quirk’s eclectic offerings span elevated burrito bowls and locally inspired Naw-Fik dogs to delectable desserts and creative cocktails. The Town Center joint offers indoor and outdoor seating, as well as more flexible dining areas outfitted with swings. quirksvb.com 

Roger Brown’s Restaurant and Sports Bar

Portsmouth   

A fixture on High Street, Roger Brown’s has been welcoming sports fans, regulars and visitors for two decades. With four large screens and 23 televisions, you know your game is always on at this namesake of the locally born and raised NFL standout. Serving quality seafood, steaks and more, their spacious interior and deck are great for large parties. rogerbrowns.com 

Rudee’s Restaurant & Cabana Bar

Virginia Beach 

Welcome to Rudee Inlet’s premier dining destination. Gather around seasonal firepits or kick back with a Docktail in one of the Cabana Deck’s gliding tables. Happy Hour is served daily at the bars, while the dining room features early bird specials that tease menu favorites like fresh catches and the famous Shrimp Dinner. rudees.com 

Scotty Quixx

Virginia Beach 

Whether you drink East or dine West, you can’t go wrong when visiting either of Scotty Quixx’s two locations. The no-frills sports bar is a locals’ favorite. Tuesday Trivia and Thursday Bingo are the main events at Scotty Quixx East, while the West bar, outfitted with 30 flat screen TVs, is touted as a sports lover’s paradise. scottyquixxeast.com / Facebook @ScottyQuixxWest 

Shorebreak Pizza & Taphouse

Virginia Beach 

Have a hankering for pies and pints? Look no further than Shorebreak Pizza & Taphouse. For over two decades, the eatery has dished out award-winning eats for visitors and locals alike. Both the Shore Drive and Pungo location are home to hand-tossed pizzas, towering burgers, ice cold brews, outdoor spaces and more. shorebreakvb.com 

South Beach Grill

Virginia Beach 

This legendary Norfolk Avenue dive is a locals’ hangout by day and lively concert venue by night. Gracing the South Beach stage is a steady rotation of local and regional artists, rock bands and acoustic performers. Pop in for a pint or sit down for some Oysters Rockefeller, Southwest Eggrolls, Jumbo Wings or the Grill’s signature prime rib. southbeachgrillvb.com 

Sportsmans Grill

Williamsburg 

Located a mile from Busch Gardens, Sportsmans is a longtime locals’ favorite for good-quality food, drinks, game day festivities and a casual family atmosphere. All your favorite wings, nachos, burgers, dogs and seafood baskets are here plus salads and dinner entrees like Surf & Turf and Prime Rib. Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. sportsmansgrille.net 

Stillwater Tavern

Hampton  

Two blocks from the Downtown Hampton waterfront, Stillwater is a mellow sports bar and grill, which serves fresh seafood, juicy burgers, tasty appetizers and Southern classics. Music, pool tables, pinball, paint nights, tavern trivia, karaoke and other special events bring regulars to the party. They also have indoor-outdoor seating and a kids’ menu. stillwatertavern.com

The Tail Gate Sports Pub 

Virginia Beach 

This Town Center dive is a popular watering hole for trivia whizzes and sports aficionados. The sports bar boasts a dozen flat screen TVs across its indoor and outdoor dining spaces. To relish a true tailgate experience, snag a seat in one of the bar’s booths situated in a defunct truck bed. thetailgatevb.com 

Twisted Pig Ale & Smokehouse

Portsmouth 

Who says your favorite barbecue joint can’t also be your go-to on Friday night? Located in Historic Port Norfolk, the Twisted Pig’s pulled pork, smoked chicken and beef brisket are as juicy as their happy hours. If you’re hella hungry, try the Loaded Mac N’ Cheese Crock of Pig’s Quesadilla. Pool tables, live music and a cozy bar are all in the sauce. twistedoink.com 

Yorktown Pub  

Yorktown 

Situated a stone’s throw from Yorktown Beach is a local pub serving traditional bar bites and refreshing cocktails. The pub invites diners to sit back, relax and indulge in its selection of seafood offerings, fried starters and rotating taps. Yorktown Pub is chock-full of funky memorabilia too, so keep an eye out for unique finds! yorktownpub.com 

A Note About the CoVa Dining Guide 

Oh, how we love a great local neighborhood pub and yes, even a good old-fashioned dive bar! And we would be happy as a barfly with a cold beer to include them all here. However, print space is limited, friends, so please note this is a partial list compiled by Coastal Virginia Magazine staff and contributors. Among the factors taken into consideration for inclusion in this edition featuring Neighborhood Bars and Pubs: overall size, general vibe, location, clientele and hours of service. 

Look for more listings in future CoVa Dining Guides.