The Best Places to Get a Drink in Virginia Beach
Hot summer days, icy winter nights and everything in between– a refreshing drink is a timeless tool for boosting your mood regardless of the time or occasion. Check out the best places to get a drink in Virginia Beach to quench any and every thirst you could possibly have.
Whether you’re looking for a high-end cocktail, a chilled glass of sangria, or even a healthy green smoothie, we’ve handpicked our favorite locations to fill your cup with the Best Drinks in Virginia Beach. There’s a little something for everyone!
Casual Yet Quality Places to Enjoy a Drink
Esoteric
Esoteric might not strike you like a casual place to find a drink. However, it won’t take long after arriving to realize everyone is there for the same reason you are– to have a great time. They’ve got an extensive tap list of dozens of locally brewed beers, as well as a selection of well-priced cocktails to fit the needs of everyone. The seating is fun, the food is delicious and the location is unbeatable. They’ve collaborated with local small businesses like Benevolent Design and North End Bag Co., and are passionate about giving back to the local Virginia Beach scene. With that being said, head on over to Esoteric and grab a seat at the bar. I recommend the Jalapeno Mule.
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
With roots dating back to the ’60s, Waterman’s is a true oceanfront staple. They’re located on the boardwalk just a few blocks down from Catch 31, giving the two restaurants plenty of room for friendly competition. If you’re torn between the two, your best bet is a good ole’ fashioned coin toss. However, Waterman’s is home to one of the best orange crushes in Virginia Beach. “The best on the East Coast,” some might even say. If you find yourself seated at the bar of Waterman’s Surfside Grille, you know what to do. You can’t go wrong with the Original Waterman’s Orange Crush.
The Back Deck
Located on the back deck of Bubba’s Seafood Restaurant, The Back Deck patio provides a stellar view of the water with an incredible opportunity to catch one of Virginia Beach’s amazing sunsets. I could spend a great deal of time talking about the quality of their food, but I’ll save you the trouble and get straight to the point. Do yourself a favor and order a round of Mango Crushes for the table; you’ll be the star of the night.
Bottlecraft Beer Shop & Tasting Room
Bottlecraft is your go-to hub for the most delicious craft beers and artisan wines in town. They’ve set the right vibe for relaxation and socializing, and with a centralized location in the Hilltop shopping center, you won’t have to drive too far regardless of where you are. With board games, clean bathrooms, and endless amounts of beers and wines ready for wholesale, you won’t be leaving Bottlecraft without a 6 pack of your favorite beer. Try the Pale Fire Wasted Words Belgian IPA.
The Best Places To Get Fancy Cocktails in Virginia Beach
The Raleigh Room at the Cavalier
Built in 1927, the Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach is home to plenty of delicious menu options. After a massive $85 million renovation in 2018, The Cavalier now includes a taproom, distillery, social lounge, and restaurant. But don’t worry, they’ve kept all their southern charm! Find a seat in the Cavalier’s Raleigh Room and order yourself a drink from their extensive cocktail menu. If you’re into whiskey, I recommend the Sinatra.
Catch 31 Fish House & Bar
Located only a few steps off the edge of the VA Oceanfront, the Catch 31 Fish House & Bar is home to delicious seafood and top-notch dinner specials. Even better, their cocktails boast the same unmatched quality of their food. Call ahead, secure your reservation, and get ready for a truly incredible dining experience. I recommend the Guava Margarita to get things started.
The Best Places for Drinks and Fun in Virginia Beach
Beach Side Social
Other than the Something In The Water Festival, Beach Side Social might just be the most exciting thing to happen to Virginia Beach in quite a while. Shuffle-boarding might not be a familiar outing for you and your friends, but after you launch your first puck down the lane, you’ll be begging for more. That’s right… Beach Side Social is home to 4 brand new shuffle-boarding lanes, as well as countless board games and high-quality drinks. While you’re waiting for your lane to open up, try a Ginger Smash gin cocktail.
The Shack on 8th
This seasonal, outdoor lounge-bar is home to a wide variety of activities and games; cornhole, bocce ball, massive connect-four, jumbo Jenga, and more. The Shack considers itself more like a retreat than anything else, and you’ll understand why after you take a seat in one of their handmade Nicaraguan swings. Owned by the operators of Waterman’s Surfside Grille, The Shack is home to the same delicious Orange Crush mentioned above. But if you’re looking to change things up, I recommend The Shack Rum Runner.
The Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks in Virginia Beach
The Green Cat
If you’re looking to boost your day with a fine mix of exotic fruits and superfoods, The Green Cat is home to some of the most delicious and unique juices and smoothies in town. Their menu is organic, plant-based, and original, and we guarantee you’ve never seen anything like it. Owner Jackie Welch keeps a tight stock of fair trade goods in The Green Cat’s artisan gift shop and is passionate about creating a sustainable and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. I recommend the Post-Workout super smoothie.
Town Center Cold Pressed
Coffee, juices, smoothies, and more– Town Center Cold Pressed brings the freshest ingredients to the Virginia Beach drink scene. One look inside and you’ll think you’re headed into the style-forefront of the whole state of Virginia. The atmosphere is exciting, the people are friendly, and the drinks are exactly what you need to both start and finish your workday. I recommend their one and only REBOOT Juice.
Zeke’s Beans and Bowls
This small Hawaiian-inspired cafe serves everything from hot tea to poke bowls. They’re funky, eclectic, and somehow classic all at the same time. Zeke’s frequently feature the work of local artists from all over the area and are excited about bringing an authentic Virginia Beach experience to every customer. Try their Fresh Carrot Ginger Juice.
Wine, beer, organic juice, and more– each of the places on our list offer endless options of unbeatable one-of-a-kind drinks. Finish your dinner and head on down to The Back Deck to unwind in front of a beautiful view. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, order a few cocktails at Virginia Beach’s famous Cavalier Hotel. Either way, we guarantee you’ll be satisfied.
