We found ourselves in downtown Norfolk and opted for dinner at Gershwin's on Granby Street. Gershwin's continues to deliver a polished dining experience, pairing New Orleans-inspired cuisine with attentive, professional service. It's the kind of establishment that understands both execution and consistency--two qualities that are increasingly rare and always appreciated. The shrimp and grits remains a signature highlight. The Creole sauce offers a restrained heat, balanced by a layered depth of flavor that speaks to careful preparation rather than excess. The shrimp are properly cooked, retaining a delicate snap, while the stone-ground grits provide a well-seasoned, creamy foundation. Each component is thoughtfully prepared, and together they form a cohesive dish that feels both composed and satisfying--an authentic nod to Cajun tradition without unnecessary embellishment. Gershwin's stands as a reliable fixture in the downtown dining scene. For those seeking a refined take on Southern and New Orleans classics, it is well worth the visit--and a strong example of the quality found within Norfolk's local restaurant community. read more

Gershwin's - Menu picture - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

It would be zero stars if possible. And I can honestly say that I've eaten in restaurants across the world and the US, at many different price points and this was hands down the worst culinary experience of my life. If this restaurant was in an area that was even moderately competitive they would have been put out of business. The bar seems adequate but it was almost like they stopped serving food and forgot to tell anyone. I swear I'm not making this up, this actually happened: 1) it took over 2.5 hours for the entrees to come out. One came out so early that by the time the second set came out they were already done. 2) The only appetizer that was ordered that actually came out, arrived after the entree was done. 3) One person's order had to be changed 5x because the waiter kept coming back to say they're out. When his pork chop finally arrived, it was undercooked and not eatable. 4) Nothing was offered in any way as a comp, nor any real apology If you go, be wary. There is no way they were this thoroughly incompetent in every single aspect of the food services industry without practice. read more

Gershwin's was a great experience overall! The food was very good and definitely worth the visit, although it did take a little longer than expected to come out. That said, the drinks more than made up for it, they were amazing, and their bourbon selection is impressive with plenty of options to choose from. We sat at the bar and received great service. The staff was attentive and welcoming, which stood out even more because we felt a bit underdressed, we had stopped in while waiting for a nearby comedy show and were dressed pretty casual. Despite that, they made us feel completely comfortable and right at home. The atmosphere is classy and relaxing, with a piano player adding a really nice touch. It's definitely on the fancier side, and the prices reflect that, but it's a perfect spot if you're looking to unwind, enjoy quality drinks, and have a good conversation with friends. Would definitely come back! read more

Gershwin's - Old fashioned - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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If this place were just drinks I'd give it 4 3/4 stars all day. The problem is the food. It just isn't that good. That's the only problem though. The live music is always good. The service is wonderful. The decor is cool and interesting. And the cocktails are AMAZING. The food is a huge disappointment. So my suggestion is go to one of the other great restaurants on Granby for dinner and then swing into Gershwins after for cocktails and music. read more

While the food and service we had were good, it was very disappointing that over half the items on the menu were not available. How does that happen in a well run restaurant? If one supplier can't meet your needs then you should have a back up. read more

This was definitely a hidden gem and surprise of how layback and relaxed it was this evening walking in we went there for dinner and they did not missed a key with the food,service and entertainment. We booked reservations for dinner and our options were dinning room or music. The main difference is that music you are up close to where the musician is playing and that can definitely add uniqueness to the night. Services was very good and friendly don't feel like you have to dress a certain way here they welcome all style and are server Ava was amazing she was so attentive to make sure we had a good night out and she made some good recommendations for food. Where she did mention that the food was all homemade including like the dressing on salads and croutons. The food options were good and not bad at price it was a range of $24-30 + dollars for entrees and the portions were just a right amount we both got braised meat. I got braised short with mashed potatoes and candied carrots it was balanced of sweet and savory with the braised short rib nicely cooked and full of flavor. They also had live music playing this night they had pianist playing some classics music with some jazz tune to it and that was definitely a good touch to add on the date night and we went on less busy day. Which was nice due to it being more upscale and perfect spot to get some drinks and good bites of food. This is perfect spot for date night if you want to go upscale and enjoy some live entertainment and have a more romantic experience or even just a relaxing night evening. read more

Gershwin's - Braised lamb shank and short ribs with mashed potatoes,green beans, candied carrots - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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We had an amazing NYE dinner at Gershwin's! We managed to snag one of the last reservations. We were sat in the back where it was a little chilly but honestly, I expect that in the older buildings in Norfolk and always bring a sweater with me. We have a wonderful server, I wish I remembered her name. She was attentive and very helpful when I mentioned I was gluten free. She made sure everything I had was "safe" for me to eat. She warned us that due to the busy night and a small kitchen, the food may come out a bit slow. We were fine with that and didn't see it being a problem at all throughout the night. We started the night off with drinks, I had a whiskey sour (SO GOOD!) and my husband had a smoked old fashioned that she smoked tableside. We also had appetizers, I enjoyed a smoked salmon spread, this does come with toasted bread but I had veggies and my husband had "Red Fish Grill" Fried Oyster and Shrimp which he said was fantastic. They were out of duck that night, so instead my husband ordered the Steak Au Poivre Filet Mignon and had no complaints. I ordered the Glazed Beef Short Rib and it was divine! It included a side of mashed potatoes and candied carrots which were perfect accompaniment. We closed out the night with desert, because of course! I enjoyed a creme brulee that was also fired tableside and my husband had the layered chocolate cake. He enjoyed it and it looked delicious. We had a few more drinks and called it a night! Overall no complaints and we will most definitely be back. I definitely recommend checking this hidden gem out. read more

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I visited Gershwin's during the Norfolk restaurant week. The pairing menu for restaurant week seemed to have something for everyone! Upon arrival I was told that it was a reservation only diner service but I could take a seat at the bar. The bar was empty and I planed to order a few drinks so that worked for me. The bar manager (Madeline) was very attentive and took extra care when creating my smoked woodford old fashioned. Overall I give Gershwins a 5/5 as the 1920s vibe, music and lighting really make it a unique experience. I thought the food was exceptional but you can certainly notice that they could use a few more team members on their staff to make things flow easier. read more

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Man I don't know what to do with this place. The atmosphere is amazing, the live music is always something I want to hear but is perfectly non-intrusive on a conversation or my random thoughts. Servers are unfailingly friendly and engaged. The whiskey selection, epic! The problem is the food. In the last five years, it's gone downhill. Way downhill. Last week I had some dry pork chops. To confirm the awful truth, I came in tonight for gumbo. Next to inedible. So salty and one note. Just high school cafeteria bad. I hate to see a great place I've loved for years hit the skids like this when they still do so many things so well but on a street with great eateries like Luce and Saltine, no one will be paying fine dining prices for food of this quality. read more

Yesterday we were walking downtown and decided to stop in for dinner. Gershwin's has a wonderful ambiance. We particularly enjoyed the live piano music! I ended up having a French 75 to drink. It was great! We ordered the escargot for an appetizer and it was so flavorful! It took a little while to get our food but it was worth a little wait because everything was excellent. For my main course I got the chicken & mushroom ravioli. It was rich in flavor and absolutely delicious! We will definitely be back. I would definitely recommend checking out Gershwin's for an overall wonderful dining experience! read more

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If I could give them 3.5 stars for drinks I would because the food is definitely not worth 4 stars. I made reservations for 5:15p on July 26th during restaurant week. Our entree was lukewarm after waiting over an hour and 30 mins from placing our orders. The flavor of the food was actually good but the presentation and preparedness was way off and disappointing. What was worse than given a gift card to use on your next purchase only to find out it was invalid? Being able to contact management about it! Getting names or email was like a secret which resulted in me sending an unanswered email that was on the restaurant's home page. Would I dine here again? Idk... I am curious to know if I would have the same experience outside of restaurant week, but then again... I'm not confident they would honor the invalid gift card that was given to me. Sigh. P. S. I do love the decor, the Mac/cheese was amazing, and the espresso martini was bomb. That's it! read more

Nice establishment. Staff is rude, both hostess and waiter. Food was tasty, but way over rated for the price paid. The is one of those places that you go to and leave saying "well at least I tried it and now I know" I have no desire to return or recommend to anyone. read more

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This is really a 3.5 but unfortunately that option does not exist. I really enjoyed this place! By far the best spot I've seen in my short 2 weeks in Norfolk. Cocktails were amazing super big shoutout to our bartender (super sweet woman with sister locs) the drinks came at a good rate and I think the prices were fair. The dinner menu sounded great and the price point was perfect! I like the casual dress code although with the beautiful atmosphere people still dressed up. The music was at an acceptable volume and still allowed for conversation. The only reason this didn't hit a 5 in my book was although the food was yummy the time it took to come from the kitchen was a bit too long additionally our food was a bit cold. Not cold in the context of cheap reheated food just cold like the entrees were sitting out and perhaps not under a warming lamp. The venue itself was beautiful though... looked like a scene right out of great gatsby. I could see this being a staple date night restaurant in my future. For entrees we had the braised lamb and chicken and mushroom ravioli. Unfortunately they were all out of the duck confit for us to try but we will certainly be back. Unisex restrooms. Restrooms were a little bit messy but not atrocious. read more

Gershwin's - Bar top area. Bottom right espresso martini 10/10 - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

I've passed this place many times over the years. Fiance decided to make a reservation for Valentines Day. We had a 5:30 reservation and the table the host put us was close to the door. We did NOT like that seat. Thankfully, we voiced our displeasure and were moved slightly further in. The seat wasn't much better but they brought us champagne on the house so I forgave them. This place is know for their cocktails, with good reason. I loved my cocktail and my fiance was impressed by their whiskey list. The food we ordered was good. The only thing we didn't like was their lobster bisque. I'm not sure what region that recipe is from but I've never see lobster bisque like that before. I do intend to return for more cocktails. read more

Gershwin's - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Wow, this place is so nice and such a vibe! We celebrated my sister's birthday here and it's one of her favorite date night spots. We ordered the crab dip and it was delicious! The crab Mac and Cheese was also a 10/10. Drinks and service was on point. I ordered the mushroom ravioli and it was really good. You have to be a mushroom fan though to enjoy it. Our meals were all on point and everyone loved what they ordered. I also loved that there's a live musician playing music inside in the front. I highly recommend visiting this out of all the other places on Granby for dinner! read more

Great Happy Hour experience. The staff was great in finding us a place to sit. Enjoyed and would go it again.

From the moment I walked in I felt very welcome, The staff were not only attentive but also incredibly knowledgeable about the cocktail menu. The best bartender in town; Marcela, took time to offer recommendations and even customized a drink based on my preferences. Definitely coming back with more friends here read more

Gershwin's - Marcela and Akasha best bartenders in the whole state of Virginia. - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

We had a reservation for 4 on Saturday evening. The food was good, but absolutely everything else about the logistics and timing of the of the dining experience were mishandled. We asked for some sort comp on the meal - they gave us 10% off, however they still automatically added on an 18% gratuity. Dine with them at your own peril. read more

One of the best places to eat in Norfolk! Good food, large portions, and the best rum cake in the world. The live piano is beautiful and is worth the price every time. The speciality cocktails are cute and it's a very memorable place. Amazing customer service as well. read more

This piano bar is a must visit when in Virginia. The food was so delectable, the service was absolutely out of this world! We were a bachelorette party of 8 which meant we were running a little late to dinner! Toni and Marcella truly went above and beyond for us to ensure an amazing evening. The ambiance is fit for a night on the town, dress to impress and let Gershwin's do the rest! read more

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Had a date night here recently, and the atmosphere was great for that - dim lighting, fancy chandeliers, and lovely live music. The service was amazing too - our server was wonderful and sweeg, and even other staff not assigned to us were very nice and helpful. The food itself was just less than stellar - flavorless escargot appetizer, mid crab dip, and very sour French onion soup with a bold statement of being the best in the state...not even close. Our favorite things were the mushroom ravioli with a side of grilled chicken, and the chocolate martini I had for dessert. The place is quite small, so make a reservation, especially if going on the weekend. Also parking downtown can be a bear - we ended up paying $15 at a parking lot directly across the street. read more

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I've always heard good things about Gershwin's so I looked forward to the opportunity to try it out for myself. I sat at the bar with one other person. This was on a Sunday evening so it wasn't busy. We were quickly seated and served. There's a pretty good mocktail selection. I asked the waitress which one she preferred and she suggested the Cinderella. It was okay. Nothing particularly special. I'll try something different next time I'm there. However, the crab mac and cheese was on another level! Definitely one of the best restaurant mac and cheeses I've ever had. Perfect flavor and generous with the crab meat. It's on the appetizer menu so I don't wasn't expecting it to be so good. I'll definitely be back for it specifically! read more

Gershwin's - Crab mac and cheese - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Gershwin's has a beautiful atmosphere and beautiful decor- however, the food left me in want of just a tad bit more... I will say that the drinks were fabulous. I just think the food is a bit overpriced for what it is. The short ribs were just.. not what I was expecting... They were out of the lamb that I wanted to try (not anyone's fault, of course)...maybe I'll come back to try it. I liked our server, service was good. read more

Gershwin's - Short Ribs - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Gershwin's is a must visit often destination while in Norfolk Va. Great drinks and food add to the speakeasy's vibe that makes this a popular destination. read more

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Food was great, our server Lilley was excellent, needs more variety of chardonnays by the glass, and could use another playlist. We assumed there would be Gershwins' tunes but there was rickety Ragtime for some reason. Very distracting. read more

I had an amazing night at Gershwin's. I love the decor and the vibe . They had cool jazz playing in the background. I just went in for the Valentine's Day drinks. They had some really fun options to choose from. I chose the Cupid Spritzer one. It was a nice drink , pink, and with a heart shaped strawberry. Service was great, everyone was super nice . Place was clean and organized. The place wasn't too crowded. I really got opportunities for some fun pictures . I recommend this place if you want something different and fun! read more

Gershwin's - Valentine's Day -special cocktail - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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This is such a cute, cozy restaurant. This time was my second time coming here. The food was decent, if a little under seasoned in my opinion. The collard greens that I got with my pork chop were fantastic! Those were the most flavored thing that I got. The Velvet Witch drink was surprisingly tasty! I was skeptical based on the ingredients in it, but it was good. Our service was just ok. She messed up on the three orders of pork chops (I had asked for collard greens instead of green beans and didn't bring the chutney for the other two). read more

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Super cozy bar with a cool vibe. They have live jazz music or piano sometimes. The large long bar is very pretty which is where we have sat a couple times. We only got a drink this time but it was good. They have lots of different bourbons and whiskeys. I have never had food but it looks good. A great place to grab a drink! read more

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Stopped by for drinks after dinner with my boyfriend, and it's honestly the most romantic spot we've been to in a while. The live piano music creates such a great vibe, making you want to stay and enjoy the atmosphere. The service was also top-notch, 10/10. We didn't try the full menu, but we did have the flourless chocolate cake, and can I say-YUM! Definitely need to come back and try the food next time. read more

The vibe of this restaurant was very classy. It's a pretty small restaurant, but perfect for a family dinner or a date. The piano man was playing very nice mellow songs. Mocktail Mojito: Very strong taste of mint than other flavors. Duck A L'Orange: I wish there were more vegetables on there. However, the duck went along really well with the sweet potato. My parents and my boyfriend really loved their dishes as well. We didn't leave a single sauce or crumb. Overall, 8.3 out of 10. read more

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We had a Saturday night reservation month in advance. When we got there, we were told that we could only order appetizers and not dinner they had a party of twenty, but the restaurant was empty elsewhere and could not handle our dinners in time to see our play at Chrysler Hall at 8 They never called told us at any time of this problem ahead of time at this was too late to change to another restaurant The food was awful. The server was good and was the one that informed us of the situation when we sat done to eat dinner read more

Great service and very willing to accommodate special request. The ambiance is set for that quiet date night or an evening with friends. The food is delicious and worth th read more

Taking advantage of the Norfolk Restaurant Week, my wife and I tried Gershwin's. A speakeasy- styled restaurant with a gorgeous old long bar reaching to the ceiling filled with various alcoholic spirits. The ambience is right out of the '40s with a piano player in the front. If you intend to hold a conversation, recommend asking for a table in the back as the piano can be loud due to the small space. Our waitress was very attentive, but also very busy doing bartending when not taking care of us. All the staff are wired, so the kitchen can communicate when the entrees are ready. The deal was $45 each for a three-course meal. My wife ordered the creamy crab bisque, the fried shrimp, and the main course petite filet and shrimp. Her crab bisque was nice and creamy - definite winner. Her shrimp in both courses were perfectly cooked as was the petite filet. The beef was so tender, she didn't need the knife. She thought the asparagus was overcooked, however. Otherwise, a wonderful combo entrée. I had the rustic lamb stew, Cavatappi Au Gratin (Mac & Cheese), and the glazed beef short ribs with mashed potatoes and candied carrots, thinly sliced. The lamb stew was in a beefy broth. So beefy, I couldn't tell the difference between the lamb and normal beef stew. Pass on this selection. The Cavatappi Au Gratin (Mac & Cheese) was very gooey cheesy deliciousness. Unfortunately, Gershwin's had advised the crab mac & cheese as the second course. So, a disappointment there. The glazed beef short ribs were so tender, no need for a knife, lying on a bed of awesome chunky mashed potatoes with very interesting seasoning and the thinly sliced candied carrots on the side that were scrumptiously sweet. This entrée is also a winner. Now the reason for the three stars. One, you are automatically charged an 18% gratuity on your bill whether you liked the service or not. So do not overtip. Save the tip for the piano player. Second, this is European-style dining, meaning slow. We were at our table nearly two hours before the entrees arrived. If you need to be at an event after dinner, skip Gershwin's. But if you like European-style dining and like your cocktails, Gershwin's is definitely for you. Great food, great service and a great atmosphere with two caveats. read more

Really nice piano bar setting. Food was acceptable as well. Nice service nice atmosphere. I would recommend this place.

Gershwin's | Norfolk , VA 332 Granby Street , Norfolk , VA 23510 Looking for a new date night spot ? Check out Gershwin's in Norfolk , VA ! Pricing : $$-$$$ (Can get pricey) It feels like you stepped into the 1930's when you walk in. From the decor , the way the wait staff are dressed and the live music (weds-Saturday) The host was also our waiter and bartender. He was very attentive and super friendly ! It was first time here and he was patient and offered plenty of suggestions ! I ordered a Smoked old fashion with Cherry wood. This drink isn't for someone that likes sweet / fruity flavors. It's tart (in my opinion ) ... and I am a sweet / fruity drink person lol . 5/10 ($14) Small plate Appetizer : We ordered the Jumbo Fried shrimp with cocktail and a special aïoli sauce 10/10!!!! $15 Small plate appetizer : Crab Mac & Cheese $12 9/10 Big Entree : Big Plates Country CarbonaraHouse-Made Linguine, Crispy Prosciutto, Sugar Snap Peas, Parmesan $34 (The shrimp was a $12 up charge making it $34) 7.5/10 Dessert : S'mores . We later found out it was a vegan s'more. It was okay. I was hoping for more of a warm s'more . Only the top was warm and the texture was different . 5/10 Overall all, I enjoyed going here and experiencing the upscale bistro. It's different but can be pricey!!! read more

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We certainly enjoyed ourselves at this lovely speakeasy styled restaurant! Very good menu and cocktails. I enjoyed the short ribs while my husband had duck confit. The atmosphere and music were great! I would've given 5 stars, but I don't care for the gratuity being added automatically which so many restaurants are doing now :-( read more

Gershwin's - the bar is gorgeous and the extensive cocktail menu is creative and delicious - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

I had a wonderful meal at Gershwin's. The ambiance is what I imagine a piano bar from the 1940s would be like; dark, with a grandiose bar featuring rows and rows of liquor stacked to the ceiling (I heard it's the best selection in Norfolk), and live piano music adding to the scene. The service was impeccable, with the lovely Marcella serving as mixologist. I had an excellent Old Fashion with Basil Hayden at Marcella's recommendation - it was not too sweet, just the way I like it. The food was excellent. I had the Caesar salad, and, as one who makes my own Caesar dressing, I could tell this was homemade with fresh anchovies. I also had the gumbo and it was amazing as well. The shrimp was fresh and cooked perfectly, the soup mildly spicy but not overpowering and complex. Some of the best gumbo I've had. Overall I was very impressed and would highly recommend. read more

This is a gem! Beautiful classic atmosphere with a piano. Went for happy hour and ended up eating dinner as well. Bartender BJ was amazing and very attentive to the entire bar on his own. Recommended the Toddsmopolitan cocktail which was great and refreshing. Also tried the Georgia Peach, equally good. Appetizer I had the mussels(YUM) and ended up getting the ribeye which was so tender and delicious. Also loved the smashed potatoes that came with. Very good experience and a nice restaurant with an intimate feel. Will definitely visit again. They had some cool drink experience that I witnesses also. Check the menu for those! read more

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If I could give negative stars I would. We were here for business and I never do reviews. Two of their three chefs were "out" during their opening at 5:00. We waited 30 mins for drinks, 1 hour for appetizers and they were wrong and had to be sent back. Correct appetizers at 1:15 mark. Main course arrived at 1:30 mark... Food was cold and over seasoned with salt. Throw on a mandatory 18% tip when I normally tip 20% and this was the worst dinner we've had in months on the road. This isn't even the quality of a Wendy's stay away. Manager never came to the table, no apology and three tables waited over an hour for apps. Skip this read more

Gershwin's - Receipt - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

I have been to Gershwin's before and was excited to bring my husband to celebrate our anniversary. They offered us complimentary champagne and had special heart shaped napkin holders which was a special touch. The waiter and bar was fantastic. Food service took way too long. We chose food from the show menu and were there at 5:20pm. We didn't receive our entree till 7:25. Food was good but we had to eat it so fast in order to make our show. Very disappointed since I really like this restaurant. read more