VIRGINIA - Traveling and dining out with the whole family calls for restaurants with a welcoming atmosphere, kid-friendly menus, and plenty of entertainment. Fortunately, Virginia is packed with legendary local spots that cater perfectly to families and casual diners. Highlighting some of the most relaxed venues from the 8 Best Must-Try Restaurants in Virginia, here is where you should take the family for your next meal out.
Arcade Games and Pizza by the Beach
If you are spending the day at Sandbridge Beach, loading the family into the car and heading twenty minutes to Pungo Pizza and Ice Cream is a guaranteed win. This location operates as a one-stop shop for family fun. Not only can you order up fresh pizzas, hot sandwiches, and custom cakes, but the restaurant also features an in-house arcade and an ice cream counter. It is the perfect casual stop to keep the kids entertained while enjoying a quality meal.
The Classic Drive-In Experience
Taking the family to Doumar's Cones & Barbecue in Norfolk is like stepping into a time machine. As a family-owned business that has served the Hampton Roads area for over a century, the historic drive-in relies on veteran car hops to deliver meals right to your vehicle. Kids will love the novelty of eating burgers and hot dogs in the car, followed by the iconic ice cream served in their famous, freshly pressed waffle cones.
Community Vibes and Live Entertainment
For a casual breakfast or lunch with a true community feel, the Little Grill Collective in Harrisonburg is unmatched. It is a highly welcoming environment where families can enjoy healthy, home-cooked comfort foods. If you have older kids or teenagers, visiting on a Thursday or Friday night provides great local entertainment, as the restaurant hosts a popular open mic and weekly open stage featuring local performers.
A Virginia Beach Family Tradition
Operating since 1978, The Beach Pub in Virginia Beach defines casual, family-friendly coastal dining. Located conveniently on Atlantic Avenue, this longtime local favorite offers familiar American diner fare in a laid-back pub setting. It is an easy, stress-free environment for families to grab a bite without the inflated prices often found directly on the boardwalk. With televised sporting events and fun community activities like paint nights, it is a welcoming spot for diners of all ages
