Came across Black Spice restaurant on a random Wednesday night and am so glad I did. Black Spice absolutely delivered on both flavor and presentation. The lemon drop martini was one of the highlights of the night -- smooth, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart without tasting overly sugary. Definitely one of the better lemon drops I've had lately. The Black Spice wings were packed with flavor. Crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and coated with a sauce that had the perfect mix of sweet heat and Caribbean-style seasoning. They were addictive. The lobster egg rolls were another standout. They were crispy, stuffed generously, and paired with a sauce that complemented the seafood really well without overpowering it. The lobster flavor actually came through, which isn't always the case at a lot of places. The cabbage was tender and seasoned with a tasty spice which was delicious. On top of the food, the atmosphere was stylish and energetic with great music and a fun crowd. Perfect spot for date night, brunch, or drinks with friends. Service slowed a little once the restaurant got busy, but overall the experience was worth it. The chef even blessed us with a sampling of a new catfish egg roll he is thinking of putting on the menu, and like everything else it was amazing and worthy of menu placement. Would definitely come back to try more of the menu read more

See all

My friend and I decided to stop by Black Spice for dinner over the weekend. Since neither one of us had been, we couldn't wait to dine in. I called ahead of time and asked if they took walk ins and was told they didn't, so I made reservations for 6pm. With this restaurant being located off Granby St., I figured I'd better find the location first before finding parking. Upon arrival, I almost drove right past it. The only sign they had was a "Black Spice" sign in the window, which was very easy to miss. Thankfully, we found a close parking garage and it was a short walk to the restaurant. We were seated as soon as we walked in and the place was practically empty. Before getting settled, we asked if we could sit at the tables with a booth (for comfortable seating) but was told that those tables were reserved for parties of 3 or more. We understood, but funny enough, there were two (yes, two) ladies sitting at a nearby table with a booth! Insert side eye lol! We started with drinks and appetizers. The drinks were okay but not very strong. We ordered the CrabMac and the Lobster Egg Rolls. The CrabMac was good but the Egg Rolls seemed to miss the mark a bit, for me. I think they would've been better without the cheese. For our entrees, my friend ordered the Salmon and I ordered the Braised Short Ribs. My friend said her Salmon was okay but I wasn't a fan of the Short Ribs. They were covered with a very interesting, bbq sauce that I didn't quite enjoy. I've ordered Short Ribs before but I've never had them with such a thick, bbq sauce. The Mashed Potatoes were garlicky and very tasty and the Sautéed Spinach was so good, I ordered another side of it. Once we finished eating, we asked for the check and my bill came up to $91.80! I just knew they had given me the wrong bill lol! They automatically added 15% Gratuity on the bill without our knowledge. Our server was great so I was going to tip either way, it just would've been nice to be notified ahead of time. Unfortunately, there wasn't anything I ate that would justify spending that much lol! The staff were very nice but I'm sure I won't be returning again. By the way, no one ever came to sit at the table with the booth, so we definitely could've sat there. SMH! read more

See all

Stopped by on a Sunday afternoon for Brunch, and we were seated immediately. It wasn't crowded at all, only about six were seated. Parking can be an issue off or on Granby Street so plan accordingly. Jenny was our server and she seemed a little discombobulated and new to serving. It took her forever to take our order and her attentiveness was lacking. Now to the food, chef Tonya did her thing. The banana-pecan waffles were delicious. The waffles were light and fluffy. The shrimp and grits were scrumptious. The grits were cooked to perfection and not gritty. read more

See all

Today was my second time visiting and I love this place real bad. Drinks are still 10/10. Crab Mac/Cheese still 10/10. Wings still 10/10. This time I also tried an item from the main menu. I got the stuffed chicken breast and it was sooo juicy and flavorful. The service was good and amazing, and I noticed a little update to the wall decor but of course it kept the ambiance at a nice date night vibe. I can't wait to visit again. This a solid spot for Downtown Norfolk and definitely a go-to if you stay downtown. read more

10/10 must visit. Don't judge a book by its cover haha. There isn't a ton of seating, but the food is absolutely crazy good! Best Burger I ever had! The portion size for the fries was small, but they were so good and filling I ended up not caring haha. The cocktails were amazingggg. Their special spices are killer. Service was super friendly, a touch slow, but seriously a must stop! read more

See all

I got the lobster pasta which tasted good but it wasn't special. I felt like I could have made it at home. Their drinks were really good though. I got the lemon drop martini which was tart and refreshing. Service was fine but it did take about 20 minutes to get our food read more

I visited this restaurant during restaurant week and loved the food. I decided it would be great to visit with friends for a brunch. We were seated right away when we arrived. The brunch menu had a lot of great options. I went with the shrimp and grits with a side of breakfast potatoes. It was amazing! One of the best shrimp and grits plate I've had. The food is flavorful, fresh, and presented nicely. We finished the meal with some of their bread pudding. Looking forward to my next visit! read more

See all

This plate was $35. Not worth the price at all. The greens tasted liked canned greens. The fish was okay. The service was okay. We were a party of 3 and we all received our plates at different times. The decor was nice, but the lighting was too bright. Overall, honestly I do not recommend. read more

Black Spice - Red snapper Blackberry margarita - Seafood Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Was recommended this place and it has been on our date night bucket list since then. Unfortunately it did not surpass our standards which I did not believe are far too high to reach. The atmosphere is really cute and artistic as there is a mural and a consistent vibe throughout the restaurant. Our service was definitely not the best as we have received being that the hostess was also the bartender, waitress, and working the entire floor by also going in to the kitchen. We ordered : Black Spice Wings - Deliciously seasoned and not overly salty to which I have experienced far more often than not. These are our favorite to what we had ordered. Parmesan Crusted Chicken - This dish was oddly wet upon arrival? It seems as though this dish was prepared and/or frozen ahead of time then baked. Considering the hardened ends of rice that the chicken was stuffed with. Braised Short Ribs - The meat in this was extremely tough to which only having received a fork in a napkin was not helpful in the slightest. The mashed potatoes it was accompanied by were also not seasoned in the slightest. I would like to note that it was incredibly noticeable how we were not put in regards of our waitress as she did not check in on our table once we had received any of our items. As the night went on and the restaurant emptied , the singular waitress seated another couple directly next to us, which would not have been an issue had we received the same type of care as the rest. We also did not receive any type of napkins or silverware until asked , especially once receiving finger foods which I find that very odd. read more

Black Spice - Parmesan Crusted Chicken Braised Short Rib - Seafood Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

This place did not disappoint. For girls night last night me and my homegirl had a great time in this establishment. Cookie our waitress was excellent. We even meet the chef DJ and he was awesome. But the food was great too. We ordered the crab fondue and the lobster eggrolls. Cookies suggested to dip the eggroll in fondue and that was great. For an entree I got the lamb chops and the glaze on them was on point. This is a great lil date night spot . read more

See all

Black Spice is truly a hidden gem in downtown Norfolk. While it's a smaller, more intimate spot, the atmosphere feels welcoming and cozy. The bartender--who also served our table--was fantastic, offering friendly, attentive service that made the experience even better. Their happy hour is a great deal, featuring 50 % off appetizers that are hard to pass up. I ordered the seafood mac and cheese and the wings, and both were absolutely delicious--rich, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. I'll definitely be returning to enjoy more of what this spot has to offer. read more

Black Spice - Crab mac and cheese - Seafood Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Black Spice has been on my list of restaurants to try, so we decided to check it out during Downtown Norfolk restaurant week! Food, drinks, and service were 10/10! We dined off the restaurant week menu and had a 3 course meal. We tried the shrimp toast, curry chicken eggrolls, the rib eye, seafood stuffed salmon, and the lemon blueberry bread pudding. EVERYTHING was amazing! We also had the strawberry thyme margarita and the burnt orange smash (both tequila based), and neither disappointed. The bartender, Tam, knows how to make a drink! Everything came out fresh and fast. The restaurant has a nice, relaxing vibe to it. I took a look at their regular menu and definitely plan to visit again! read more

See all

I loved everything that came to the table! It is a small restaurant and I believe the person working up front was both waitressing and bartending. With that being said service was a little slow but we weren't in a rush and my party was enjoying the jazz music playing and each other's company. Both the waitress and the chef were cool and made sure to check in anytime they walked by. The chef brought out something they had created and let us try. If they add it to the menu I would definitely order it. We came during happy hour and their lemon drops and appetizers were half off. We ordered lobster egg rolls, wings, crab Mac and the salmon fondue for the table. I ordered the Jerk Snapper for my entree and subbed the plantain mash for regular mashed potatoes. Everything came out hot and the flavors were on point! I took the rest my entree for lunch today and it just as good reheated. I'm definitely going back to try more menu items. The only thing I wish was the egg roll was a little crispier. I think the juiciness of the filling played a big part in that but I still enjoyed it and the sauce that came on the side. I really don't think you can miss by going to Black Spice. read more

See all

Had brunch at this charming little restaurant a few weeks ago. Customer service was great. Food was even better! Will be back again.

Black Spice truly shines in its culinary offerings. We started our meal with the Lobster Egg Rolls which were sweet little bites of heaven. They are packed with succulent lobster meat, perfectly seasoned, and wrapped in a crispy shell. They come with a sweet dipping sauce that perfectly compliments the flavors. For my entree I had the Salmon which was cooked perfectly and served on a bed of the best sweet potatoes I've had this year. Black Spice is a must visit for anyone visiting the Waterside district looking for a delicious experience. read more

See all

This place is definitely a hidden gem! A cozy, friendly spot. I've had the black spice wings, the Parmesan crusted, stuffed chicken breast, the bread, pudding, and I've tasted a piece of a lobster roll and the sweet potato mash. All of it was so good. I definitely recommend this place. Everything is made to order so it may take a little bit longer, but it is definitely worth the wait. read more

The food was absolutely amazing. I had the salmon with collard greens and mashed sweet potatoes. Felt like I was eating at my grandma's house. Absolutely delicious. Salmon was cooked perfectly. The sauce was something I'd never had before but paired perfectly with the salmon, Greens were just the right balance of sweet and salty. Please check this place out. Friendly staff as well. read more

They have been opened for about a year. The first time we tried going there they asked us to come back in 30 minutes because the staff did not show up. So we went somewhere else. Tonight, the bartender was also the entire wait staff, food server, bus person, bar back, and janitor. It took 15 minutes to place our drink and food order. 20 minutes later we got our espresso martini and Diet Coke. Another 20 minutes to get our food. We had to flag down the bartender to get our check, but it came out immediately. The restaurant was really warm and even the bartender was fanning herself along with a couple of customers. The food, however, was very good. My wife ordered the jerk snapper. They were out of snapper and offered salmon instead. It was really good, but the snapper would have been a better fish for the jerk sauce. Not a lot of salmon running in Jamaica. I had the braised short ribs with nothing but positive comments on that. It was flavorful and fall off the bone tender. I picked Black Spice because they had bread pudding on the menu. Unfortunately, they did not have it tonight. I was really disappointed. My recommendation is this. They are obviously having staffing issues. Go for the good food, and be prepared for the slow service. read more

See all

The food and service are always stellar! Ambiance is lovely! Chairs and tables were not as pristine as usual, but they were busy so I will give everyone a pass! Definitely a must to visit in downtown. read more

See all

I enjoyed Black Spice!!! I needed to find a restaurant for a birthday party (40 people) the day before the party. Black Spice saved the day!!! The bar manager, Tam, was amazing. She took time to call me to discuss the party details and even asked if she could do a signature drink for the birthday girl. I was so impressed with the customer service. The signature drink was sangria and it was the bomb!!! The food was amazing and my group of 40 didn't have any complaints! Myra was our server and was so patient. She was incredibly professional. I so loved Myra and Tam. Black Spice saved the day!!! read more

I went with two girlfriends Wed night and oh am I so glad we did! Staff were amazing from the friendly cook who obviously has a passion for what she does and she does it VERY well. To the very attentive, efficient and friendly waitress. Nice ambiance, small space so I recommend reservations. The menu is unique but has something for everyone. The food, ohh the food, treat yourself and come here. Far exceeded my expectations, divine taste. I can't wait to go back! read more

The atmosphere is very nice, the staff is nice and accommodating but the food and service were terrible. We received our food cold, my friend whose birthday we were celebrating received her food last. It really is disappointing because we traveled from the other side of the tunnel to come experience and celebrate, but I would say this is more of 2 person restaurant. Not accommodating to parties larger than 4. read more

See all

Wow! A cute little vibey spot off tucked off to the side. Our server/bartender/hostess/everything, Taj, was amazing & really made us feel welcome & comfortable! The food was SO GOOD! Crab mac, wings, braised short rib, & lamb chops. PLEASE get this lamb chops when you go drinks were great, i adore a cute cocktail. Nonetheless, if you're looking for a lowkey date night this is where you should go ! read more

See all

So, Chef Tonya is what makes this place special! She set a vibe for us immediately. And baby, the food is delicious. I enjoyed black spice wings and the crab and Mac!!! My partner had the carne asada fries and it was delicious too. We came, we ate, we enjoyed! read more

Worst service ever!!! Got seated right away but it took 45mins just to bring water. Two young ladies running the entire restaurant and being the bartender. Took 1hr 30mins to bring the food out. We left after 2hrs very disappointing.. Will not be recommending or returning. read more

Beautiful ambiance, nice small restaurant. The bartender/waitress was amazing. She was very personable and accommodating. And the drinks were good!! The food was overpriced and just ok. They didn't have any desserts on a Saturday night. But I would go back to try a different dish read more

See all

This food was unbelievable. The wings are amazing, the lamb chops were super tender, and the grits were the best I've had. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. Nothing but positive things to say! read more

Black Spice - Chipotle Thyme Lamb Chops - Seafood Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Food was delicious! Was so interested in eating it that I forgot to take pictures (sorry) so you'll have to trust me . The short rib was AMAZING & fall off the bone. We also tried a lobster egg roll appetizer....very tasty! Lastly they had a dessert special of Fried Banana Pudding! Traditionally Banana Pudding is not my "go to" dessert but I couldn't stop eating this thing! I was SO yummy & different & perfect! I should also tell you service was excellent. Both the waiter the chef (who came to check on me regarding my lamb chops) were very friendly & accommodating. You can tell they cared about the customer experience. Hats off the Black Spice, the chef(s) & staff. Make your reservation NOW! You won't be disappointed. read more

This food at this restaurant is phenomenal. I don't know where to start. I originally had a reservation for 6pm but due to my flight arriving late I had to rebook. It was incredibly easy to do so. I was scared that I wouldn't be able to! Nonetheless, I came in, was greeted, and chose my seat. Superwoman(who did everything) informed me that it was just her and she'd be with me in a second. I appreciated the heads up. This is not a place that you want to go to if you're expecting fast service or fast food. This food is made with LOVE. Superwoman was very aware of each item on the menu and gave recommendations. The fries were top tier! Like absolutely top tier. The chicken was seasoned to perfection. The pineapple aioli was unique. But let me tell you about this lamb chop, grits, and sautéed spinach dish. I tasted the grits and spinach first and said "DO JESUS" because in my head there was no way this combo was so good together. The grits were like no other. Who gave this chef this recipe??? The lamb chops were so delicious. I was sooooooo incredibly happy. I told Superwoman that I had to leave so that I could "go be greedy in peace". This restaurant was so satisfying to my taste buds and my appreciation for black owned businesses. The chef brought me my dish... it was at that moment that I knew he put everything in it. 10/10 would recommend. They deserve an overflow! read more

See all

I don't know if we went to Black spice on the wrong night but from start to finish, we did not enjoy our time when we first got there, the bartender was the only person that was working that night. It took her 30 minutes to take our drinks order, another 30 minutes to get the drinks And then somehow we were able to order some appetizers because it was still happy hour. It took maybe 45 minutes to get the appetizers, then a guy came to our table said that he was called in to help so it was only one person working that Friday night and that was the bartender. The bartender brought the check to us never asked us about dinner. We paid for our drinks and appetizers and we left so my experience at Black spice was not good. I don't know if they were shorthanded or what was going on, but we should have been notified in the beginning that they was shorthanded and let it be our choice if we wanted to stay. Very disappointing! read more

A group of 5 of us went to Black Spice for dinner prior to a play at the Wells Theater. We were all so impressed. The decor was striking. The menu was quite varied, and our food was absolutely wonderful! The staff couldn't have been more personable. We will definitely visit Black Spice again! read more

Wow this spot was amazing and the food was great. I really like the friendliness of the staff. I was there for happy hour, and atmosphere was chill and friendly. read more

Everything about this place was amazing! Our server and bartender Cookie was super friendly and her service was A1. The atmosphere was incredible along with the food and drinks! We tried the Mussels, Brisket Fries, Stuffed Chicken and Short Ribs and i have not 1 complaint, absolutely delicious. Also you have to try the butter pecan bread pudding and homemade ice cream! Will definitely be back! read more

Everything about this experience was horrible!! Me and my husband ( first timers) bestie ; her husband and daughter stopped in to have dinner after a lovely day at the wine festival! We weren't greeted and was told from a distance they were doing reservations only; even though the restaurant was practically empty all night!!! We opted to sit at bar and eat and have a few cocktails!! We were refused menus by the bartender who stated "she didn't have any menus!! Eventually another young lady came out and when asked, she provided us the menus. We all ordered then waited approximately 1.5 hours for appetizers!! Finally we all decided to just leave, at that point they advised us our food was being plated. We agreed to take the food to go ... big mistake!! Got home and it was disgusting!! not even edible!! I actually left mines on the bar. I'd ordered the salmon with collard greens and sweet potatoes mash. Sweet potatoes were freezing cold salmon no seasoning, and they through spinach on my plate versus the collards without even letting me know. Horrible!! read more

Went during restaurant week and all the food was delicious. The drinks were great and I highly recommend coming to visit a great restaurant in a small atmosphere. read more

Food was amazing, Ms. Jasmine our waitress I highly recommend her she is the best ever. A group of us went for my mom's birthday and we had a great time. Food, drinks, service, appearance was just amazing highly recommend read more

Drinks and food were good. Chef gave out individual shrimp appetizer due to wait for food, which was very kind. Recommend trying this place out! read more

The food was very salty like the wings and the salmon with the greens. The service was very slow despite us being the only table and there was only one waiter maybe they don't have other waiters I really don't know. And my sister needed change back and they cashapp her... but over all the food was good like the chicken fries and the burger/chicken sandwich. I might not go back anymore the the first time wasn't a really bad time! read more

I walked into the establishment and was not greeted by anyone for almost 10 minutes. I came in at 830 and there were several seats available. Someone asked me if I had a reservation and I said no and they informed me that the only seats available were at the bar. A few moments later a couple came in and they were immediately greeted and offered a table. They also did not have a reservation. I then asked the person that I spoke with why they were offered a seat and I wasn't and he said because I was by myself. My friend was meeting so I actually was not alone, at that point he said I could take a table because it wasn't just for 1. It took about 20 minutes to get our menu, another 30 minutes to get a drink and 45 minutes to get our food which was all cold. O got the lobster egg-rolls and the grits and my friend got wings which were small and overcooked. The drinks were not good and I was actually given the wrong drink. We paid over $65 for 2 cocktails that weren't good, 2 appetizers and 2 sides. There was only one server for the entire restaurant and bar. She was very sweet but definitely unable to handle the entire restaurant! The ambiance was cute though. read more