Virginia Beach might be known for sunbathers and surfers, but locals know the real thrill comes wrapped in a warm tortilla. My most memorable afternoon in this beach city wasn’t spent fighting the tide—it was spent tasting my way from one buzzing taco spot to another, never more than a few steps from the ocean breeze. From tiny cantinas to sprawling seafood grills, it’s a scene packed with surprises, personality, and flavors that go way beyond the basics.
Finding the best tacos in Virginia Beach isn’t a challenge—it’s an adventure, and every spot tells a different story. Whether you’re after boldly spiced fish tacos, classic carnitas, or a creative twist you can’t find anywhere else, this list cuts through the tourist traps to the real local favorites. Ready to discover where true taco devotion lies? These picks are for those hungry for both the taste and the soul of the city.
Where to find the best tacos in Virginia Beach, VA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Virginia Beach, VA:
- Tortugas Cafe and Tiki Bar
- Hot Tuna
- ShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouse
- Firebrew Bar & Grill
- Bay Local
- Waterman’s Surfside Grille
- Mahi’s Seafood and Sushi
- Tacos-n-tequila
- Whiskey Kitchen Circa 2014
- Catch 31
1. Tortugas Cafe and Tiki Bar
Tortugas Cafe and Tiki Bar feels like a mini-vacation in the heart of Virginia Beach. Tucked away on the Ocean Beach Club pool level, its breezy, casual vibe makes it easy to lose track of time. Here, sunsets come paired with unbeatable ocean views and a soundtrack of laughter from happy crowds.
The star at Tortugas is the taco line-up, built around fresh ingredients and creative twists. Their mahi-mahi tacos burst with flavor, and the vegetarian options don’t just phone it in—they’re crafted with just as much care. I still remember the zesty crunch from my first bite, a perfect balance between savor and spice.
Settle in at a table overlooking the waves. Order the mahi-mahi tacos with house slaw and avocado sauce for a true taste of their style.
2. Hot Tuna
Hot Tuna brings an energetic, modern vibe to Virginia Beach’s taco scene. Its lively atmosphere always draws a crowd, yet it never feels rushed. Here, the kitchen shines by sourcing local seafood and bringing a creative spark to coastal classics.
The tacos reflect the freshness of the bay, always crisp and satisfying. I have vivid memories of the blackened fish tacos—light, flaky fillets with a tangy slaw and just enough bite. Each taco tastes like Virginia Beach distilled onto a plate, where every flavor feels intentional.
If you’re looking to sample the region’s best, try their signature fish tacos. They’re a standout, packed with bold, local character that mirrors Hot Tuna’s own style.
3. ShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouse
ShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouse blends the casual fun of a sports bar with a strong focus on fresh-made comfort food. Vibrant crowds, dozens of taps, and constant sports action create a lively, neighborly vibe. Even as a pizza haven, ShoreBreak sneaks in some surprisingly stellar tacos that locals quietly rave about.
During a game night visit, I was convinced to step away from the pizza and try their blackened shrimp tacos—best decision ever. Each taco offers a burst of sweet heat, balanced by creamy slaw and a squeeze of lime. It’s a flavor story that shows their commitment to variety and bold, satisfying bites.
If you want something different from your sports bar go-to, their shrimp tacos are a must-try. They’re unexpected, fresh, and full of ShoreBreak’s cheeky spirit.
4. Firebrew Bar & Grill
Firebrew Bar & Grill is the kind of spot where you instantly feel at home. With open-flame cooking front and center, this veteran-owned local favorite always smells like something good is on the way. Tap into their self-serve wine station for a bit of fun, or stick to the rotating local beers while you wait for your meal.
The tacos here are a revelation—think grilled shrimp or blackened fish, straight off the flame, tucked into soft tortillas. My experience started with a hesitation and ended with a “Why didn’t I try these sooner?” Fresh toppings, lively sauces, and the warmth of the grill run through every bite.
Order the fire-grilled shrimp tacos with chipotle crema to experience Firebrew’s signature style. They strike the right balance between smoky and bright flavors.
5. Bay Local
Bay Local is a staple among Virginia Beach locals who know where to find a perfect brunch or lunch. This cheerful spot radiates a breezy charm and a creative energy that feels contagious. Whenever I’ve needed a pick-me-up, Bay Local’s sunny dining room and fresh, inventive menu always do the trick.
Their tacos take a different approach, often with a Southern twist that fits the vibe perfectly. I’m a repeat offender for their breakfast tacos, which come loaded with fluffy eggs, crispy potatoes, and a zingy salsa that wakes up your taste buds. Bay Local makes every taco feel like comfort food with a side of fun.
Don’t leave without trying the breakfast tacos. They reflect Bay Local’s knack for making every meal memorable and bright.
6. Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Waterman’s Surfside Grille is as close to oceanside dining bliss as you’ll find in Virginia Beach. Family-owned since 1981, the vibe here is welcoming, and the ocean views are practically a main course themselves. Sitting out on the patio brings the sound of the surf right to your table.
Seafood is the clear star of the menu, especially when it comes to their tacos. I couldn’t resist the grilled fish tacos, packed with fresh, flakey catch-of-the-day and topped with crisp slaw and bright citrus. Every bite balances the flavors of the coast—clean, light, and deeply satisfying.
If ocean to table is your taco dream, Waterman’s delivers it with style. Go for the grilled fish tacos to experience this local legend’s signature flair.
7. Mahi’s Seafood and Sushi
Mahi’s Seafood and Sushi has that rare balance of laid-back surfside hangout and refined seafood spot. You can hear the waves from the patio while digging into a plate that looks as good as it tastes. The staff treats everyone like a regular, which might explain why locals keep coming back.
Tacos at Mahi’s go beyond the typical, with fresh local fish as the centerpiece. My best pick: the grilled shrimp tacos, perfectly seared and matched with crisp veggies and a bright sauce. Each bite captures everything people love about the ocean and the kitchen’s careful touch.
Start with the shrimp or fish tacos. They’re a showcase of what Mahi’s does best—fresh, flavorful, and always on point.
8. Tacos-n-tequila
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Tacos-n-tequila sets itself apart with its prime beachfront spot and a menu that’s pure coastal fun. Sitting poolside with the ocean in view, it’s easy to feel like you’ve landed at a seaside fiesta. The vibe is bright, casual, and packed with the energy you’d expect from a true taco shack.
The taco selection is as creative as it is satisfying. I still remember my first order of the grilled fish tacos—light, flaky, and stacked with crisp slaw and homemade salsa. Even the vegetarian tacos get the full, fresh treatment, never feeling like an afterthought.
For the full experience, go for the grilled fish or veggie tacos. Each dish highlights Tacos-n-tequila’s playful approach to flavor and their commitment to fresh, vibrant ingredients.
9. Whiskey Kitchen Circa 2014
Whiskey Kitchen Circa 2014 brings together smart comfort food and modern style in one lively space. The relaxed, neighborhood atmosphere makes it easy to settle in, and everything on the menu seems thoughtfully put together. It’s the sort of place where inventive twists meet well-loved classics.
Their tacos pack big flavors, with grilled seafood and plant-based options treating each ingredient as the star. One visit, I tried the grilled shrimp tacos—juicy, lightly seasoned, and paired with crisp, colorful toppings. Even the slaw tasted like it had just been made, keeping the dish light but full of punch.
If you’re in the mood for bold but balanced tacos, order the shrimp or veggie tacos. They perfectly show off Whiskey Kitchen’s knack for updated classics with genuine local flair.
10. Catch 31
Catch 31 masters the art of oceanfront dining with sweeping views and a buzz that never seems to fade. The open-air fire pit patio is a local favorite, but the real draw for me has always been what comes out of the kitchen. Each dish feels like it’s crafted with a sense of place—fresh, bright, and unmistakably coastal.
Tacos at Catch 31 are all about bringing out the natural flavors of the sea. When I bit into their blackened fish tacos, it was clear they value both simplicity and quality. Fresh fish, crunchy slaw, and a drizzle of sauce created a balanced, memorable bite. Catch 31’s seafood tacos really showcase why Virginia Beach gets excited about its local catch.
Order the blackened fish tacos. They’re light, perfectly seasoned, and embody what Catch 31 does best: keep it local and delicious.
More Things to Try in Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tacos to try in Virginia Beach?
The standout tacos in Virginia Beach often include grilled fish tacos, shrimp tacos, and inventive vegetarian options. Many spots source local seafood, so the flavors are fresh and distinct.
Are there vegetarian or vegan tacos available in Virginia Beach?
Yes, most top taco spots offer vegetarian and vegan taco choices featuring beans, veggies, avocado, and creative salsas. Places like Bay Local, Mahi’s, and Tacos-n-tequila do these especially well.
Which restaurants serve gluten-free tacos?
Several Virginia Beach restaurants offer gluten-free taco shells and fillings. Always check with your server, but ShoreBreak Pizza & TapHouse, Hot Tuna, and Firebrew Bar & Grill are reliable picks.
Is there good oceanfront or outdoor taco dining?
Absolutely. Waterman’s Surfside Grille, Catch 31, and Tacos-n-tequila all boast ocean views or patios where you can enjoy tacos with a fresh breeze.
Do I need a reservation for popular taco spots?
During peak times or weekends, it’s smart to reserve ahead, especially for waterfront favorites like Catch 31 and Waterman’s. At casual spots, walk-ins usually work but a quick call can save your spot.
