Best Restaurants in Newport News (2025)
Circa 1918 Kitchen and Bar
Restaurant · Newport News
A tiny Hilton Village standout where seasonal plates, serious cocktails, and warm service make lingering feel easy. Frequently praised by Coastal Virginia Magazine and OpenTable diners, it’s a go-to for date nights and intimate celebrations.
Fin Seafood
Seafood restaurant · Newport News
Chef Kenny Sloane’s flagship in Port Warwick champions Tidewater seafood with a refined touch. Featured by Coastal Virginia Magazine and loved by OpenTable reviewers, it’s ideal for multi-course splurges or Tuesday tapas on the patio.
Steak & Tonic
Restaurant · Newport News
A City Center steakhouse-meets-speakeasy from the FIN team, known for wagyu, creative starters, and a cocktail program with swagger. Spotlighted by Coastal Virginia Magazine and the City Center directory, it’s lively but still polished.
Harpoon Larry's Fish House & Oyster Bar
Seafood restaurant · Newport News
A 1991-born local institution with an ever-changing raw bar, she-crab soup, and no-frills seafood platters. Called out by Coastal Virginia Magazine as a true Newport News original, it remains a beloved rally point for friends and family.
Thaijindesu Thai and Sushi Bar
Thai restaurant · Newport News
Port Warwick’s serene Thai–Japanese spot where pad thai and creative rolls share the table. Regularly endorsed in regional dining guides, it’s the local move for balanced flavors, a relaxed room, and a patio on the square.
Indulge Bakery & Bistro
Bistro · Newport News
A European-style bakery in Historic Hilton Village serving scratch-made breakfasts, sandwiches, and gorgeous cakes. Highlighted by Visit Newport News and loved by locals for lazy weekend mornings and well-crafted coffee.
Schooners Grill Newport News
Restaurant · Newport News
Near CNU, this locally owned grill blends Greek-leaning pub fare, seafood platters, big salads, and weekend brunch with live music. Coastal Virginia Magazine frequently includes it for its lively atmosphere and broad, well-priced menu.
Crab Shack on the James
Seafood restaurant · Newport News
Casual waterfront seafood with sunset views by the fishing pier. A Newport News classic since the 1990s, it’s noted by Coastal Virginia Magazine and locals alike for steamed platters, crab cakes, and that unmatched river backdrop.
Al Fresco
Italian restaurant · Newport News
A longtime, independently owned Italian dining room known for generous pastas, seafood, and an old-school wine list. Frequently recommended by OpenTable diners and local critics for hospitable service and classic, comforting plates.
Byrd's Restaurant
American restaurant · Newport News
Brunch-minded and Southern at heart, Byrd’s earns steady lines for cinnamon swirl pancakes and the famed Hot Chic fried chicken sandwich. Included in Coastal Virginia Magazine’s city dining roundup, it’s pure neighborhood comfort.
Tanpopo Ramen
Ramen restaurant · Newport News
Small, spirited ramen shop turning out rich tonkotsu, spicy miso, and comforting donburi with anime-splashed charm. Consistently praised in recent local reviews for depth of broths and friendly service.
Saffron
Mediterranean restaurant · Newport News
Warm, family-run spot in Hilton Village where kabobs, Persian stews, and saffron rice take center stage. Recognized by Coastal Virginia Magazine and local guides, it’s beloved for gracious hospitality and many gluten-free options.