7 of The Best Restaurants in Virginia for Crab Cakes

The Ultimate Virginia Crab Cake Tour: A Guide to the 7 Best Spots

While its neighbor to the north often gets the spotlight, Virginia—sharing the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay—boasts its own legendary and deeply beloved crab cake tradition. An actual Virginia crab cake is a culinary masterpiece, featuring sweet, jumbo lump blue crab meat with just enough binder to hold it all together, served broiled or fried to golden perfection. From rustic crab shacks to upscale waterfront grilles, the Old Line State's southern sister offers a delicious journey for any crab cake connoisseur. Here are seven of the best spots to find an exceptional crab cake in Virginia.

1. Waterman's Surfside Grille (Virginia Beach)

• The Crab Cake: A true Virginia Beach icon, the family-owned and operated Waterman's has been serving fresh seafood right on the oceanfront for decades. Their classic broiled crab cakes are a signature item, made with premium lump crab meat and served with a view that's as spectacular as the food.
• The Vibe: The quintessential beach restaurant experience with a bustling, energetic atmosphere and a sprawling oceanfront patio. It's the perfect place to eat after a long day on the sand.
• Location: 415 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

2. Blue Seafood & Spirits (Virginia Beach)

• The Crab Cake: In an intimate, down-to-earth setting, Chef Charles at Blue Seafood & Spirits has earned a massive local following for what many call the best crab cake in Virginia Beach. His recipe focuses on pure, high-quality jumbo lump crab with no filler, allowing the sweet flavor of the crab to shine.
• The Vibe: A cozy and friendly coastal-style restaurant where the focus is on impeccably prepared, flavorful seafood. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular spot.
• Location: 2181 Upton Dr #420, Virginia Beach, VA 23454

3. Margie & Ray's Crabhouse & Restaurant (Virginia Beach)

• The Crab Cake: A Virginia Beach institution since 1964, Margie & Ray's offers a classic, down-home seafood experience. Originally a small country store and tackle shop, it has evolved into a beloved local crabhouse. Their crab cakes are traditional, hearty, and delicious.
• The Vibe: A rustic and casual spot with a cozy, country feel. It's the perfect place for an authentic, no-frills seafood meal.
• Location: 1240 Sandbridge Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456

4. Berret's Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill (Williamsburg)

• The Crab Cake: Located in the heart of historic Colonial Williamsburg, Berret's is an award-winning restaurant celebrated for its fresh regional seafood, and their crab cakes are a highlight. They offer beautifully prepared crab cakes that reflect the best of Chesapeake Bay cuisine.
• The Vibe: An inviting restaurant with both indoor dining and a lovely outdoor grill and patio. The menu also features local Virginia wines and microbrews.
• Location: 199 S Boundary St, Williamsburg, VA 23185

5. Fin Seafood (Newport News)

• The Crab Cake: For a more upscale and modern take, Fin Seafood in Newport News is a top choice. This restaurant focuses on using seasonal, organic ingredients and sustainably sourced proteins, resulting in a refined and exquisitely flavored crab cake.
• The Vibe: A sophisticated dining experience with a beautiful outdoor patio. Fin boasts an extensive wine list featuring over 100 labels, as well as a special wine and tapas menu.
• Location: 3150 William Styron Square N, Newport News, VA 23606

6. The Deadrise (Hampton)

• The Crab Cake: Located in historic Fort Monroe, The Deadrise offers not only delicious seafood but also spectacular, sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay. Their crab cakes are a popular menu item, best enjoyed while watching the ships pass by.
• The Vibe: A popular waterfront seafood restaurant with a casual atmosphere that's a favorite among locals and boaters.
• Location: 100 McNair Dr, Hampton, VA 23651

7. Sugar's Crab Shack (Richmond)

• The Crab Cake: This Richmond spot is a local favorite for its wide range of delicious seafood dishes. Sugar's Crab Shack serves up fantastic crab cakes in a casual, relaxed atmosphere.
• The Vibe: A perfect place for a quick and satisfying bite in the state's capital. The menu also features a variety of classic Southern desserts like lemon pie and cobbler.
• Location: 2224 Chamberlayne Ave, Richmond, VA 23222

Virginia's culinary landscape offers a delicious and authentic crab cake experience that proudly rivals any other. From the bustling oceanfront of Virginia Beach and the historic charm of Williamsburg to the capital city of Richmond, these top-tier restaurants showcase the sweet, succulent flavor of the Chesapeake blue crab at its absolute best.

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