The Most Delicious Soul Food in Virginia Beach

Blackeyed Peas

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (91) • $$

"BlackEyed Peas is a soul food restaurant located outside of Lynnhaven Mall by the AMC theater. I went for an Open Mic night they were hosting. The service was extremely slow. This is why they lost a star. I had to ask front desk after 20 minutes for help. Once the server got to us, everything was fine. He rarely checked in on us, my guess because we were there for open mic. I ordered a strawberry lemon drop drink and kids chicken tenders and fries (I wasn't too hungry). The kids chicken tenders were large and 3 was too many; even for my 29 year old self. I wanted to try the Lea h cobbler but will have to test it out at a later date."

Ward's Soul Food Kitchen

★★★★☆ 3.5 (40) • $$

"I have came a few times but this most recent time is where the review is coming from! I always start my soul post talking about my soul food test. You all that follow me know, how i feel about place that call themselves soul food restaurants. This place did ok with the test, i have had better from them. The test consist of Fried wings mac and cheese and collards. SO the wings were cooked well, and they are seasoned. Yes, the meat has flavor. Everything was going GREAT until i go to the Mac. I had to take some points off .the Noodles were mega mushy, its was like i was eating mac cheese pudding. Which doesnt sound that bad, but when its suppose to be mac and cheese we might have a problem. But the collards were on point. Like i said i have been to this place before, and they normally hit. This time it was a 3 out of 5 from me!"

Jones Soul Food Cafe

★★★★★ 4.5 (2)

"Oh my goodness I have no idea where to start. We ordered the fish, the chicken, collard greens Mac and cheese and the yams. EVERY SINGLE THING WAS THE BOMB!The skin on the chicken was super crispy without being overly greasy, it was like eating pork rinds or kettle chips. The fish was flaky, moist and perfectly seasoned without being too salty. The collard greens tasted very fresh and the juices tasted really good on the bread that came with the meal. The Mac and cheese emotionally fulfilled me in ways that I can't describe. And to top it all off the mumbo sauce was superb. Jones Soul Food is the best hole in the wall spot I've been to in Tappahannock PERIOD. Definitely coming back when I'm in the area again."

Queens Cuisine

★★★☆☆ 3 (3)

"EXCELLENT soul food cornerstone items: Mac and cheese, collard greens and fried chicken!! Extensive menu, cooked to order. Definite recommend"

7 Spices Soul Food With A Twist

★★★★☆ 3.8 (32)

"Food doesn't disappointment at all. The food is made to order and staff is friendly. I've ordered to-go and pick-up. Oxtails can be a little more fatty than I like. Wish they gave hot sauce (would be good for the collard greens). However. It hasn't been a bother too me too much since I do not eat there. The inside is a bar type feel with tables and seats. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, but nothing one can't figure out. Will continue to come and support!"

Munchies Southern Soul

★★★★☆ 4.2 (22) • $$

"4 of us decided to make Munchies our supper destination after reading about their story in The Virginian Pilot. It's a new soul food spot that just opened this year. Wow were we impressed!! The location is right off Rt 199 in the Lightfoot area of Williamsburg.. super close to Ford Colony as well (hint hint - market this place to Ford Colony). It's tucked in the middle of a shopping center to the right if you're turning onto Olde Towne Rd from 199. We were there early so the place was all ours. The menu had us falling over ourselves - immediate hunger pains like... All the goodies.. it was so hard choosing. So we ordered waaay too much food 90's R&B hits swayed in the background.. we are not apologizing for singing Toni Braxton at the top of our lungs.. we honestly didn't have a choice. For a starter we picked the Crab Bites. These were just solid crab meat.. 5 crispy bites to an order and each one is a good 2-3 bites. The dipping sauce was a tangy honey mustard aoili (I think) - "the perfect amuse bouche" was uttered at some point. We all got extra sides. Because it was impossible to choose. Here's a summary of the sides: - Mac n Cheese - baked, classic, not gooey, DELICIOUS crust- Collards - mine had a big ole piece of meat in it and I was in heaven. First time trying these with Red Hot and I'll never be the same...- Green Beans - best I've ever had. - Yams - sorry mama, I didn't mean to do that it was was like a reflex - Mashed potatoes - classic, smooth and fluffyFor entrees we got the 2 piece dark chicken, pork chops, and crab cakes.. everything was hot and crispy. Crab cakes were just like the bites - none but lump!! For dessert: banana pudding and cherry cobbler. Listen... ...we were on the floor those desserts were so tasty... And the portions were fabulous.. a whole pint container of each.. we asked to meet the chef that created the desserts. Sheldon came out and we learned that everything we ate was his mom's recipes. He had grown up helping her in the kitchen and is carrying his family's legacy.. how beautiful is that!? Very reasonably priced place also - appetizer and entree with extra sides was around $30. Can't beat that. Please check this place out. I will be back and I may even be inquiring about catering soon!"

Jackie's Restaurant

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (78) • $$

"Enjoyed the food and atmosphere. The service was good. Staff made us feel welcomed. Salmon cakes were delicious."

Grannies Restaurant

★★★★★ 4.7 (3)

"Whoever granny inspired this masterpiece of an establishment THANK YOU! This is real deal SOUL FOOD! This is a place your order for takeout type of restaurant so it's not ideal for dine in. They only put your order in once you arrive and not in advance so placing the order prior to arriving is pointless. I ordered the crab cakes, Mac and cheese, and collard greens and this meal did not disappoint! Meal was made fresh to order and came out fairly quick! I was shocked at how fI ate the food as soon as it came out and finished it in one sitting! I damn near inhaled the meal! Don't walk here RUN!"

Smitty’s Restaurant

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"Please note- Address;4763 Highway 11 north Bethel, NC 27812 This place is a great hole in the wall. Right next to a gas station, very unassuming.We ate breakfast, lunch, and got a to go dinner for later as they open 5:30a - 2pm M-F. Closed Sat/Sun. They had really good chicken tenders they had just made for the gas station hot bar next door. They were good. My hubby got the chicken gizzards- he said they were very good.We will be stopping by again when in the area,"

Croaker's Spot - Richmond

★★★★☆ 3.9 (902) • $$

"We showed up with a party of six right when they opened on Sunday. All of us tried the flight of mimosas, which were very sweet. My partner got the Shrimp and Grits and I got the Fish and grits. It is a lot of food and I felt like it could easily have been split between us. I was underwhelmed with the food.I wish the menu had biscuits and gravy. We would have talked longer but our server asked us to leave behind cause they needed the table, this timing isn't advertised anywhere. There was also no one waiting. They charge an auto tip for the table or 15%. Which was low for most auto tips. I hate being auto tipped. Also, I know the whole table would have tipped more."

Our Peoples Soulful Seafood

★★★★★ 4.5 (128) • $$

"The customer service was excellent and on point. My food was very good and full of flavor. Our waitress and hostess were very accommodating. The atmosphere was really great with the music as well."

Reggae Jamaican kitchen

★★★★☆ 3.7 (3)

"WONDERFUL FOOD!!! Customer service is excellent and extremely knowledgeable. I don't go anywhere to get my Jamaican food."

Lookatdatder BBQ House & Catering

★★★★★ 4.7 (3)

"A hole in the wall! Friendly staff with their own lingo. No place to sit inside to eat but heavy plates of well seasoned and delicious food to go!"

Canvas Social Cuisine

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (97) • $$

"We came here for brunch on a Saturday, and we had a good time. The wait wasn't long. Customer service:Phenomenal. Our waitress was so attentive and amicable. She was very good at making recommendations, checking in with us, and keeping up with refills.Food:My meal was a 10/10. I got the Steak N Eggs. My steak was cooked to my liking and well seasoned. The scrambled eggs were creamy and delicious, and the potatoes were seasoned well.Drink:I got the "pull out," and it was so good. Very strong but good. One drink was more than enough.Atmosphere:They had excellent music playing, and the vibes were incredible. The music wasn't too loud where you couldn't talk. It only got loud when they came out with signs for people's birthdays and celebrations. I will definitely come back. I had an amazing time."

Potheads

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"When you first arrive you might have trouble finding it because it's a good truck but park in the back. I wanted to try this place out because of the FB group 757foodies let me tell you they didn't disappoint. They were extremely kind and nice and gave us a taste of there Hennessy funnel cake which was amazing! I then tried the 6 wing combo with 3 lemon pepper & 3 Hennessy wings you could get it breaded or non breaded but I went for the breaded. All in out these are definitely top 5 in my wing places in VA can't wait to go back and try other flavors. Definitely give this spot a try if you are in the area!"

The Bamboo Room

★★★★☆ 3.7 (15)

"I'm all for new businesses with a chill vibe and this place has it!Well I found out this place is an extension of the Origami Asian Bistro. The bistro has a lounge/club atmosphere about it, while The Bamboo Room is a restaurant that caters to the brunch crowd.Well to my surprise I had never heard about either place until a few Sunday's ago. Somehow I received word through avenues that an event was taking place here on Sunday, February 11th. I was in the area, but I had already eaten breakfast. Seemingly, I figured I'd check it out because I was super curious.I did have a super hard time locating this place. After driving in circles for 10 minutes, I called the contact number and those directions provided were spot on. I believe the address I had was much different than the address that pulls up when searching for this place. Nevertheless, I am here...I pulled up and I saw at least four others walking ahead of me. I figured ok... traffic... this place must be worth checking out.I took a few pictures before heading inside... upcoming events taking place at Origami...I stepped foot inside and was immediately awestruck by the brow raising aromas of their Sunday brunch! Man, I wish I was a little bit hungry just to give them a try. But again, I was super full, but going by the smell alone, five stars!!Well speaking of stars... I subtracted a half of a star because I cannot vouch for the food because I did not try anything. And the other half of the star is because they did not have WINE! WHAT!!!???So yeah, a huge blow...but mimosas were featured... at least two kind (a special juice and orange juice). I tried the special juice mimosa...sensational!I exchanged words with the bartender, Niecey, a waitress, Tiana and someone who seemed to oversee everything, Kam. They all were super friendly and forthcoming about everything. Especially the bartender she gave a me a little background on the restaurant and she enlightened me about Origami. Evidently they had an awesome SuperBowl event...she raved about it.And the young man, Kam, handsome fella, he asked a few times if I was ok... southern hospitality I'd say.Just an awesome vibe all throughout my dining in experience. The bartender even offered those sitting at the bar a sample of an alcoholic shot... it was delicious! I think I saw them offer everyone in the restaurant a shot... great hospitality I'd say. Cheers!Music was played through a speaker or two... nice tunes... those sing along type songs. Well I enjoyed it... anything from 80s music to Beyonce!There was a group present celebrating something and they all seemed to be having a great time!The atmosphere at noonish... the place is about 700 square feet and on this day including myself, the restaurant had about 25 guests during Sunday Brunch.I'm excited to return and try the brunch buffet with another mimosa!I recommend if you are in the area on a Sunday to give them a try. They only feature Sunday brunch right now. I believe.Now the Origami Bistro... I am unsure of the hours. But they have events from time to time...The Bamboo Room has spark a super interest... they are on to something!The Bamboo Room is located same shopping center as Ollies off of Virginia Beach Blvd. in Norfolk. Also in the shopping center you'll see, a Chinese Buffet Restaurant and MP Island Restaurant on the opposite end of the Bamboo Room. There is also plenty of parking. But visiting on a Sunday shouldn't present any issues at all.Have fun and enjoy life :)"

Virginia Street Cafe

★★★☆☆ 3 (28) • $$

"I love eating at the Virginia Street Cafe. The food is always priced affordable and the portions are large for the amount of money that they charge. The menu has a great variety and the bread pudding is one of the best I've ever had. I love their breakfast. On the weekends they have a buffet and It's a extremely great value. Their oysters are cooked perfectly."

Club Allure 30/30

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (13) • $$

"This is a pretty cool venue! Babe and I visited twice before I decided to write my review!So this latest visit was on a Friday night about 6pm. It was super chill around this time and this was probably because they just opened their doors for happy hour and the live band. We were able to get a booth seat right near the stage where the local band (Ramonta and friends) were performing. Oh how I could forget...the entry fee... FREE!!!! Let's see...not too crowded, FREE entry, FREE buffet, happy hour drink specials...oh yeah, I am loving this so far.I am not sure how long this club/lounge has been in existence, but I was completely unaware of its existence prior to coming. I can remember driving by some years ago and noticed this was a restaurant once before. But now, they have made great use of the space.So you walk up to the door...security is waiting to check ID and your purse ladies. Not sure if it ever gets slammed, but the two times I have visited there has been no wait in line. So I visited once before on a Wednesday night about 10 pm and again a few Fridays ago just as the club opened. Nevertheless, we walked in and straight ahead is the bar and kitchen area. There is seating located on the right and left side of the club. The right side, I would consider your low key area, so if you want to check out things sit here. But over here, you can't see the dance floor area. Therefore, you may need to get up and roam to check out the whole scene.The left side, where the stage is located, you have about 10 booth seats. These booths also surround the dance floor that's a pretty decent size. You can also view the parking lot from this area...window seating if you will. The DJ booth is located over here too.You can also catch the game on one of their many TVs in the spot.Now if this spot fills quickly it will be standing room only and that could be an issue because it's not super spacey, but just enough space to chill, eat, and dance.Capacity maybe about 150 comfortably.Oh the food...it was tasty. Before I found out they offered a happy hour buffet, we had already ordered food. But it was crazy because about 5 items I ordered previously were unavailable...huh??? What do you mean, you don't have ANYTHING I am ordering...sheeeeesh!!! But they had plenty of fried chicken though - aye yi yi!!!Oh well, we ordered fried drumettes and fried shrimp.So yeah I mentioned how not busy they were and how they JUST OPENED the doors on that Friday evening...so the kitchen clearly wasn't ready to serve. It took 45 mins to get a order of two wing baskets and a basket of shrimp...fries sold separately.Whew... despite the severe wait time, I look forward to returning. I can't knock a club for not having food ready. Now if it was restaurant and nothing more, oh we would have left E-ME-JET-LEE!!!!I am not a club hopper at this age, but back in the day.......owwww, this would have been my lay low spot!!! Not too turnt* not too live, but just enough vibe and drink and get your two step on and leave feeling niiiiice!So yeah, a nice, chill spot with live music and a poppin DJ, I'm with it every now and then. As a result, this place foots the bill - SOLID.Not sure of the age requirements, but I'm guessing 25 and up...but mature crowd indeed - those I partied with on both nights were A OK!!!Private parking lot - Drinks Good - Waitstaff Friendly - I'd recommend you visit here if you enjoy urban music, hip hop, RnB - similar genres.Have fun :)"

Charm And Manners

★★★★☆ 4.1 (9)

"The best soul food restaurant in the area. Awesome customer service and VERY GOOD food. I have eaten here so many times. Love the atmosphere and the waitresses are always on point. This place is much better than The District which we did for Valentines Day. I tell anybody check out Charm and Manners. You won't be disappointed."

Lv's Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.3 (20)

"I've been driving pass LV's for years but never had the guts to stop in. After seeing a few reviews on here I decided to try them out! I am so glad I did. My dad and I visited for Sunday dinner. I was REALLY craving some good soul food and Southern Comfort was closed. LV's opened at 4 so I did have to wait until then. When we walked into the restaurant I was expecting it to be sit-in like most restaurants are now. But they are only doing to-go orders. My dad ordered the 6 Whole chicken wings and I ordered the smothered pork chops. Unfortunately there was an hour wait for Mac n cheese, I wasn't willing to wait so I didn't try it out. But I will next time. The pork chop was delicious, I looovez the gravy! The chicken wings were also delicious. Next time I think I'll order the wings and Mac n cheese. I will definitely be returning when I need my soul food fix!"

Truth Soulfood Restaurant and Lounge

★★★★☆ 3.7 (17)

"So yummy. Ordered a seafood platter. Everything in my tray was seasoned to perfection. A crab cake, pc of fish, 6 fried shrimp, and I got fries and cabbage for the sides. All for 15 dollars and a drink. Can't beat that price at all. Very flavorful. The crab cake was all crab no filler which is a plus. Came with a roll as well. And let me tell you that roll was buttered up so good. Everything was delicious down to the tarter sauce. Alot of places tarter tastes mayonnaisey but at this place that was not the case. I very much recommend the restaurant. Staff was pleasant as well. So glad this place didn't let me down as I drove from Richmond to find a decent eating."

Jhood's Smokin’ Soul Food

★★★★★ 4.8 (4)

"These pork ribs were incredible! They were cooked and smoked to PERFECTION. I saw this food truck parked at a barbershop in Hampton and took a chance! The name and the colors are what really go my attention. I'm so glad I gave it a try. The service was excellent and I was quickly served. My food was hot and fresh. The staff are polite and efficient. Thank you for a great first experience with your eatery. Keep up the excellent work. I wish you all the best!!!!"

PO Folks Southern Cuisine

★★★☆☆ 3 (2)

"Service was great with lots of options. Staff was patient and extremely friendly. Food was hot and fresh! Very good truck."

Tae’s Soul Food Restaurant

★★★★★ 4.7 (3)

"Always happy to have a new restaurant in our little town so when I saw on FB that Tae's had opened in town we had to check it out. The building has no signage on the exterior so we almost missed it. It is a very cute building. The food was good. It was good soul food. I really liked the pasta salad and the collards. We tried the chicken and fish and it was all very good. The wait staff was extremely friendly and made sure we had everything we needed. We look forward to going back. They are open for breakfast too and menu looked delish."

A Taste of Everything

★★★★☆ 4.4 (17)

"My supervisor ordered a few entrees from here So we got to try the wings and the pork chops The yams and the green beans The wings were tasty and not too dry the pork chop was a little overcooked it may have been prepared ahead of time and just reheated for our meal. The yams were delicious the green beans are a little salty for my liking I love the decorative selfie wall and the location It is right across from the Nansemond Brewery which serves amazing beers but does not have a regular food menu. Having a southern food spot within walking did is a blessing The staff seemed very nice and on point Hoping this becomes a staple for Main Street So far so good"

Coopers Restaurant and Lounge

★★★★☆ 4.1 (32) • $$

"Service was not professional but was a nice person, not the cleanest place. The food taste good but not good enough for us to come back. I love the gospel but they could've mixed it up with some line dancing music on a Friday."

Shrimps

★★★★☆ 3.9 (109) • $$

"Second time trying this spot off the strength that it's local and black owned. It's honestly missing something for my personal liking. Called in my order over the phone, whoever answered didn't come off pleasant. Upon entering the restaurant, my food wasn't ready yet which was no problem I didn't mind waiting but the cashier gave me cold vibes and the impression that I was bothering them when I asked for extra sauce/receipt etc. As for the food, it's not something I'd want to eat again. I thought since it was a new restaurant, when I initially tried, they were getting their kinks out but years later it's still not great. The crab cake isn't real lump crab meat, it's more of a breaded type patty which gives budget. The bread was burnt but I did enjoy the side of yams. Definitely sweet and savory. I wish it was a better experience for me but this was another time they just did not deliver. Welp! The search continues for good soul food in Richmond. Doesn't land here for sure."

Bowmans Soul in the Wall

★★★★☆ 3.6 (122) • $$

"Served by Quay and she provided great service and recommendations to get.I got the 4 whole wings (crack) w/ fresh collards And also got the Succulent pig feet w/ green string beans and sweet potatoes casserole Will definitely be back again"

Get lit Catering

★★★★☆ 4 (7)

"Just wanted something light so my wife ordered lemon pepper chicken wing snack and I ordered a pulled pork snack. We enjoyed them both."

Thee Soulfood Kitchen

★★★★☆ 3.5 (25)

"my wife and I went to Thee Soul Food Kitchen to enjoy the live band and the food. met our expectations due to it was our first time going the food was really good wish they would've kept the chicken and fish hot because they were cold, but the rest of the food was hot. I would like to make a suggestion for the price you could add a couple of deserts to the buffet maybe cake and pie.... overall good vibe but need to be advertised more!! people missing out"

Family Secrets Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4 (198) • $$

"The food was great!! When I say great, I mean GREAT! I really didn't want to leave this review because I didn't want to spread the word about this gem of a place. However, someone needs to enjoy the deliciousness that me and my family did this Sunday. We went after church and it was packed! Service was slow but I understood it. The staff was friendly, attentive and just all around great. It really felt like you were at a large family dinner. Ooohh! The cornbread!!!! I'm not even a cornbread eater and after sampling my husband's piece I ordered my own. Nice vibe, great music, definitely going back soon, maybe this weekend."

Marylous Soul Dining Experience

★★★★☆ 3.6 (27)

"So I really want to write a review about Mary Lou's. The food was really good. The atmosphere was really cute and our waiter was really nice. it seemed like a really friendly restaurant bar with a space that look like it could be great for event space! Dinner was lovely!"

Daily Menu Restaurant

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (50)

"I love this place!! I always go for the vibes. If you're looking for a laid back spot that plays great music, and has good food & drinks, this is it! I was pleasantly surprised by the extensive options available for vegans/vegetarians. I have tried every plant based option on the menu from the vegan burger, plant based brunch wrap, beyond meat tacos, mushroom tacos, and my ultimate favorite, the fried oyster mushroom "chicken" sandwich. That alone is worth a visit. Seriously, it gets a 10/10! Service is great, but it can get a little busy during peek times like weekends, so I tend to visit during weekdays/happy hour and definitely on Sundays for brunch. Vegan girlies, this is a safe place ."

Ellens Homestyle & BBQ Express, llc

★★★★☆ 4.1 (53) • $$

"If you're looking for soul food that feels like a warm hug, Ellen's Homestyle & BBQ LLC is the place to go! I ordered the collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and three fried pork chops, and every bite was absolutely delicious.I didn't eat inside it was a to go order. The collard greens were seasoned to perfection. The mac and cheese was creamy, cheesy, and baked to a golden perfection--comfort food at its finest. And those fried pork chops? Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. They were fried just right, without being greasy.The portions were generous, and the food tasted homemade, like it was crafted with love and attention to detail. The staff was friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better.Ellen's Homestyle & BBQ LLC is now my go-to spot for real homestyle soul food cooking. Highly recommend it for anyone craving a soul food feast!"

Fat Ducks Seafood & Soul Food Express

★★★★☆ 3.9 (29)

"Went last Sunday. Couldn't wait to try it. I got the whiting fish dinner with Mac & Cheese and string beans. My sister got the same accept with Collard greens. And and order of onion rings. I must say we were pleased. Quite tasty. We sampled the crab salad . It's a good stop by for some good food at a great price. If you buy over $10. There's points to work towards a discount dinner. That's a plus. No one thought of that. A+!!! See you soon"