Best Restaurants in Hampton (2025)

Phoebus’ signature French‑Creole‑NeoSoul bistro from the Simply Panache team, famous for brunch, beignets, and the Shark Tank‑featured Mango Mango preserves. Featured by Southern Living and a regular on local best-of lists for its community roots and flair.

Chef‑owners Dana and Phillip Epstein bring polished, French‑leaning plates, a serious wine program, and live jazz to historic Phoebus. Named a Top 50 restaurant by Coastal Virginia Magazine and praised for elevating Hampton’s dining scene without losing local soul.

A Fort Monroe waterfront staple for local crab cakes, rockfish, and deckside sunsets. Covered by regional news confirming continued operations during marina changes and consistently praised by travelers for relaxed Chesapeake Bay seafood done right.

Downtown’s creative engine for brick‑oven pizzas, shareable plates, and house cocktails, with weekly chef specials that keep regulars returning. Frequently recommended by Chesapeake Bay Magazine and trusted by locals for its lively, neighborhood feel.

A beloved downtown institution turned restaurant‑bakery with Southern staples—ham biscuits, Brunswick stew, shrimp and grits—plus custom cakes. Spotlighted by Coastal Virginia Magazine and noted by regional writers for blending nostalgia with modern hospitality.

Fourth‑generation, family‑run seafood house attached to a working market—crab cakes, fried oysters, and seasonal blue crabs come straight from the source. Recognized locally for heritage and freshness; hours and restaurant details are clearly listed online.

Family‑owned drive‑in serving car‑side burgers and foot‑longs since 1956, designated a Hampton landmark and celebrated by local media for its staying power. A living slice of Tidewater history where the community still gathers to eat in the car.

Downtown hangout for grass‑fed burgers, smoked meats, and a spirited Sunday brunch. Covered by regional lifestyle media at its debut; locals love the Virginia‑heavy tap list, handmade sauces, and a patio that hums when the weather’s right.

Phoebus favorite for freshly shucked oysters, steamed shrimp, and laid‑back nights. Called out by Southern Living among Hampton’s standout eats, with frequent local buzz for Tuesday oyster deals and a neighborhood crowd.

A local go‑to for tandoori, curries, and cocktails where you choose the heat level. Included in Hampton Restaurant Week 2025 and appreciated by diners for bringing vibrant, contemporary Indian flavors to the Peninsula.

Housed in the 1936 Hampton Armory, this independent brewpub‑distillery pairs Caiseal Beer & Spirits with a full kitchen, live music, and weekend brunch. Endorsed by state and regional tourism sources as a signature Hampton experience.

Old‑school breakfast‑and‑lunch spot where lines move fast and prices stay friendly—catfish and pancakes are local rites. Noted by local news and Visit Hampton, Tommy’s remains a community standby for no‑frills, cooked‑to‑order comfort.