Lilia Walewski
Google
When dining out with loved ones and friends, every minute counts. Our group of three found the perfect restaurant for a glorious evening in Virginia Beach: Rockafeller’s Restaurant at Rudee Inlet.
From the moment we pulled into the parking lot every interaction was friendly, warm, and attentive. The friendly valet assured us they don’t charge (tips only). Although we had no reservation (we will next time), the lovely hostess conferred with the owner, who figured out how to meet our request. Would we like two high tables pushed together by a corner with outstanding views on two sides? Absolutely, we said! Staff set the table, and we looked at Rudee Inlet’s docked boats and waterside homes. Devon, our handsome, attentive, and kind server (also tending the bar), asked what we would like for drinks. He smiled and quickly brought three glasses of water. When we asked if we could still order from the Happy Hour menu, he checked and returned with good news. The oysters Rockafeller’s with cheese and spinach—a house specialty—were divine! So were the Brussels Sprouts. Devon returned to take our orders, telling us about the evening’s Chef Specials and his favorite, the grilled salmon with pesto sauce, which was homemade and delicious. I ordered the salmon; my friends ordered the classic crab cakes and the seafood mac and cheese. Our meals arrived promptly, each dish enticingly arranged.
Shortly after, Devon came by to ask about our dishes and whether we needed anything else. We three were thrilled with our choices, and one of us had already decided that the next time our group returned to the area for the weekend, she wanted to come to Rochafeller’s both evenings. Her crab cake dish was that good. Devon smiled.
The elegant and charming lady who’d suggested our seating arrangement stopped by to see how we were doing. Most definitely, we assured her, sharing our commitment to return. We then learn she is the owner. We let her know how much we appreciated the welcoming, friendly, and attentive service everyone provided, especially Devon, and how much the ambiance added to our enjoyment of our delicious meals. Devon pointed out that all the ingredients, like the pesto sauce, are fresh and homemade.
After finishing our meal, we asked about the welcoming waiting area that feels like a well-appointed living room. We learned that it had been designed to be inviting and comfortable for waiting guests. On a wall hung a painting listing Rockafeller’s values: “In this house, we….give hugs, do hard things, are honest, say “Please,” stay positive, always forgive, are respectful, comfort others, count our blessings, never give up, say “Thank you,” have fun and laugh, keep our promises, love unconditionally.”
Ah, yes, we experienced how these values shine through the caring service, fabulous meals, attention to detail, and positive outlook that made our dining out a memorable evening we will cherish and wish to repeat.