Stopped by Leaping Lizard on a rainy Sunday and honestly couldn't have picked a better cozy brunch spot. The weather was gloomy, but the vibes inside were warm, welcoming, and exactly what you want when you're trying to escape the rain for a bit. It has that charming farm-to-table feel, inviting, and full of good energy. Service was quick and genuinely great, especially for a Sunday. Our server was friendly, attentive, and kept things moving without making us feel rushed, which I always appreciate during brunch hours. Drinks came out fast, food followed shortly after, and everything felt smooth and well paced. The menu is full of options that really lean into fresh, seasonal ingredients. You can tell they care about quality of their food. Lots of comfort classics with elevated twists, plus some lighter options if you're not trying to go full brunch coma mode. I ordered the crab cake Benedict, and wow, absolutely the right choice. The crab cake was flavorful, perfectly crisp on the outside, and packed with real crab (not bready filler). The poached eggs were done just right, and the hollandaise was rich but not overpowering. Everything worked together beautifully, and it felt indulgent without being too heavy. My friend had the duck hash and couldn't stop raving about it! Will definitely return in the nicer weather so I can sit outside. They have a whole outdoor area, trails down to the water and ducks! read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

I tried Leaping Lizard Cafe for the first time today.. very cute and cozy restaurant. It kind of reminds me of that scene from Harriet the Spy movie where they're at her nanny's with all the flowers, plants, and wind chimes. We wanted to sit out back but it was a little cool, so we moved onto the porch. It gives an outside feel without being directly in the elements. I had a cup of coffee and the hunting burger that comes with potato salad and fruit. I also added the green salad. I love that everything is so fresh! The fruit is actually an apple slaw that is very unique but also very good! The burger and potato salad were great! This is not the potato salad you might normally think of. It is red potato chunks tossed in a dressing but excellent either way! The green salad was REALLY good but I do have some recommendations.. when the salad comes with a meal, it is listed as "green salad." When ordered alone it is listed as "house side salad" and includes all of the ingredients listed. The salad does contain almond slivers as well as pesto which are both allergens. I think this should be noted under all of the meals that come with green salad. Many people don't even realize how pesto is made, so I would definitely point out it is made with tree nuts. My only other "complaint" would be their straws sit in a plastic container, unwrapped. I noticed when the waitress brought out straws she was touching where you'd sip, an my sister says this has happened every time she's been. On their grounds they have geese and chickens and other birds. There is also a little path that leads to a cute sitting area on the water. I'd love to visit again when it warms up a bit as this restaurant is very relaxing and has a great setting overall! read more

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Woooooooow!!! Just phenomenal! Right as we pulled up I could tell this was a place I was going to love. The homey Cali vibes - eclectic and cool- did not disappoint!! From the wonderful vibe inside to the beautiful menu and plates that were swarming around us at other tables! Trying to order for ourselves but every single person at my table kept saying "oh wow look at the Steak and eggs" or "oh my god look at that Quiche" The plates were beautiful and vibrant!!! We all tried a little piece of each others plates - all four in my party. I got the Hunters burger a mix of Venison and beef with caramelized onions and Gouda and it came with potato salad and apple slaw (I ate this first and wanted more and more a more). My son got the Shrimp and grits - AMAZING!!! My best friend got the Crab cake Benedict over a sweet potato biscuit. To die for!!! Her husband got the Duck hash. I have never tasted duck so tender and flavorful!! Prices are higher end- for me especially!! But they were treating for my son's bday- I have the best friends!! Sandwiches and salads ranging from 14-25$ My burger was 17$ Shrimp and grits 18$ along with the other 2 dishes. Wellllll worth the price. After inhaling our food we went to the bakery - I didn't think it could get any better ---- and it did!!! German chocolate cupcakes, coconut macaroons, chocolate eclairs and a handful of other homemade treats. Probably about 10-13 choices - enough to make it hard to choose. The woman helping us was super friendly and gracious while we all took our time making our choices- the only concern I had was when another woman came from the back kitchen carrying obviously more items for the bakery and was very snippy and unfriendly to my friend and the bakery lady when asked if they have any sweet potato biscuits to sell. Her demeanor and tone was not nice or professional. The rest of the team were beyond perfect!! I will be dreaming about that burger now .... Thanks Leaping Lizard!! read more

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The Leaping Lizard is the kind of brunch spot that you makes you glad you didn't decide to make brunch at home! I visited here a few weeks ago with a friend for brunch and we had an excellent experience. Our server was kind and quickly took our order. Our drinks were delicious! For my meal, I selected the duck hash. It was incredible and as a breakfast food lover it's refreshing to try a breakfast item I had never heard of! After we finished our meal, we headed over to the bakery. All the baked goods looked wonderful. I selected a cookie. It was excellent. Overall, I would recommend checking out the Leaping Lizard for a great brunch spot! read more

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Had such a nice lunch here yesterday with my monthly Lunch Ladies. Pot of Gold Mimosa's were good. Crab quiche is always delicious and love that apple salad. One lady ordered fish tacos, French onion soup, and fresh fish... everything was so good. Be sure to visit the bakery next door, so good. read more

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I went here cuz my fiance told me I'd love it. He was right! It was rly lovely to hear the rain hitting the roof. It's very cozy. I like that the tables and chairs are different. The service was pretty fast once seated. We had ~30 min wait but it was also noon on Sunday so prime brunch time. The crab quiche ($18) was yummy and a big slice! I had to visit the bakery after and so yum, I got the hummingbird cupcake and a meringue. read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Crab quiche - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

This review is strictly for their baked goods (dessert menu). I came here to pick up some pastries from the bakery but am told it's closed today. I can order the same from the desserts menu served in the main dining area. I ordered the praline cake and butterscotch toasted pecan cake. Service wasn't as great. I stood there at the entrance for a solid 2 minutes without anyone greeting me or asking if I need to be seated. Then after I ordered, one would think that cutting slices of cake would be quick - not!!! Am hoping the cake slices would make up for the dismal wait. read more

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You're greeted by a happy parking attendant - they actually answer their phone when you call, you can reserve a table in advance, there's a walking trail included in the experience dining here, which is right by the lake, all amazing highlights!!!! The downsides I experienced - There are so many pot holes to drive over in the parking lot,------ once I was seated, service was pretty nonexistent unless I advocated and kept advocating; that was a major disappointment as I love the idea of a farm to table in any aspect- this place has chickens right outside you can see! It might've just been my luck- everyone else seemed well taken care of with like coffee refills etc. we were not given a regular menu, just a drink and a brunch specials, idk if a regular one exists or if you just know you know like a local.... I didn't know... I tried to look up a menu online--- but with kids, that didn't last long- so there I was asking a questions and the server seemed annoyed like yes the kids option it comes with bacon .... I had to ask 2 different people 3 times total for a cup of coffee- yikes. I didn't even get greeted by a server for approx 10 min, so i asked someone and turns out she could take my order-- everyone else got those fly deterrents for their table and we did not, so I grabbed one from a table that finished eating... I have 2 kids and they loved the outside space and fruits as well as the choc chip pancakes, they were a hit! Once arrived, they were crushed by my son and he approved of the bacon. Personally i will not return because it wasnt relaxing trying to get coffee and ask ask ask for napkins and feel like a burden, but the food was delicious and the views were cool and unique to eat next to a chicken coop read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Omelette - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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I came here for brunch on a Sunday and ordered the crab cake Benedict ($16). It came out in about 25 minutes with two poached eggs, a light salad, and fresh fruit. The eggs were cooked perfectly , salad was indeed very light and refreshing with the vinaigrette dressing. The star was the crab cake, it was so delicious. This was my first time having a real Virginia crab cake and it was pleasantly loaded with a good amount of crab to filler. The bisuit, hollandaise , and bacon were all good compliments to the crab cake. Staff were very friendly and the interior had a seaside bay vibe with its decoration. The only issues is finding parking in the small lot during a very busy brunch time. Overall this was a phenomenal brunch experience that I would highly recommend. Food(50%): 8.8 Staff/service(25%):8.5 Value(25%): 9.0 Overall: 8.8/10 read more

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This is easily a local's best brunch spots in Virginia Beach! It is decorated perfectly from inside and out & regardless where you sit there is always such a great vibe. The cafe/coffee bar is amazing. They make a variety of drinks and their lattes are exceptionally delicious. They have tons of flavors and they make The food is fantastic! Really love all of their sandwiches and salads. It is prepared quickly even when they are super busy. Another note, they can get busy! Prepare accordingly especially on weekends. Their pastries sell quickly and they have quite the selection. They have a big menu so there is much to try here! Thank you Leaping Lizard! read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

This place is incredible! Very eclectic and fun! We pulled in the parking lot on a Saturday at 11:15 and it was packed. A "Parking Shepard" directed us to a spot. We were seated within a few min. All staff we encountered were very nice. The atmosphere is eclectic, beachy, and a laid back vibe. So much to choose from the menu, it was a tough decision. We had great cocktails and very fresh food ( the eggs had to have been from their own chickens outback). Several sitting areas indoors, in the outdoor covered patio, as well as outside near the chicken coop and garden. This location a definite must to experience. Don't forget to check out the in house bakery!! read more

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I went here with my lady friends and we literally shut the restaurant down for the day! The food and service were amazing. I had the tuna melt sans bread and it was delish! Our server was super attentive though the restaurant was packed. She mentioned they just started opening on Mondays and were surprised at the turnout. They have various seating options, indoor and outdoors. We dined inside on the enclosed porch area. The potato salad which accompanied my "sandwich" was super flavorful. I also had a cocktail...can't recall the name though LOL. They have lots of dessert options, including some gluten free goodies! I can't wait to go back!! read more

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This place is a true staple of this area. We had our rehearsal dinner year long, long ago and it has steadily grown since. It's much further for us to go out here to have brunch/dinner so when we do come out here, it's a treat for us. This time we decided to come out for brunch on a Sunday... wooo weee... talk about busy. They've done a good job to contain the madness of parking and work with the space they have. But at a certain point full is just... well.. full... Overall, it wasn't awful, you just know that it gets THAT tight when you're on Shore Drive awaiting to even turn into the driveway. Aside from that, the facility is worth walking. If you go all the way to the back of the property, you'll approach the lake. It's a nice view and provide a bit of serenity within the property. The owners are phenomenal to talk to and are just as passionate as they were over a decade ago. I feel a little honored to be able to say we had our rehearsal dinner here. It's such a winner. The food - can't go wrong. It's always delicious. Always has been. If you're in the area and looking for a great brunch, look no further. I know they have dinner W-F but have yet to try it. Although, I have no doubt that it too would be delicious. Thank you Leaping Lizard for being so awesome! Food Taste: 5 Overall Service: 5 Value of food to cost: 5 Facility: 5 Ambiance: True representation of local place with adorable flair. Repeat customer: yes Dog Friendly: yes - patio read more

Oh, my lord!!! It's crowded... and is always crowded here. But today was especially full. We came in for a little snack and to use the restroom, if I'm being honest. But wow!!! There was only seating at the bar, and so we sat. I had a nice glass of noir, followed by coffee spiked with Frangelico. I'm already on cloud nine when food comes. You can never go wrong with their sweet potato biscuits, they're heaven in a bite or two. And while that would have been satisfying enough, we also got a pimento BLT, which came with a slaw made with apples and raisins (I loved the raisins but he hated them lol). And if that wasn't enough food, we also got a cupcake and a slice of cake. To be honest, the cupcake was pretty good, but the chocolate walnut cake was to die for!!! It was like if a brownie and a cheesecake had a baby and then bam!!! The perfect dessert. Great day at this lovely spot. Be back soon!!! read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Chocolate walnut cake - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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This place was great, from the food to the ambiance and customer service. The food was delicious and actually had taste compared to many of the VA places here. The ambiance was really cute with all the lizard decorations. Cheers for a great meal. read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

This small restaurant has a nice menu. There is more outside/porch dinning than inside. Went to brunch with my girlfriend.., service was fast. The drinks were on the weaker side. I had the duck hash which had a great flavor and the house made sweet potato biscuit was great. read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Duck Hash - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Why aren't you eating here already? Seriously, every word of this review is just delaying your day from getting better. Cozy and charming, chotskies and cookies, nothing about Leaping Lizard is off except the fact that you're still reading this review and not driving there now. Oh, you're in the passenger seat? Fine. But no side quests. Go to Leaping Lizard. Order whatever fits your fancy. Enjoy. Your stomach, your soul, and your significant other will thank you. read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Fried green tomatoes - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

If you're looking for a cozy and cute brunch spot with authentic rustic charm, this place should definitely be on your list. Nestled next to an amazing bakery (perfect for a post-brunch treat), it's the kind of spot that makes you want to linger a little longer. We tried the Duck Hash, French Toast, and the Bacon Cheddar Omelette, and all three dishes delivered on flavor. The Duck Hash was especially standout--perfectly cooked and well-seasoned, it felt like a chef's kiss to comfort food. The French Toast was indulgent without being too sweet, and the Bacon Cheddar Omelette had great flavor, though it leaned a bit thick for my liking. On the drinks side, the Peach Bellini was a highlight--nice and boozy with just the right balance of flavors to make it feel special. A few small notes: there's no dedicated kids' menu, which is fine, but an a la carte option would have been appreciated for some flexibility. Also, we waited a bit to get seated (typical for a Saturday morning), but the friendly staff and laid-back boho chic vibe made it manageable. Overall, it's a spot worth visiting if you enjoy rustic, down-to-earth brunching with a touch of hip sophistication. And don't forget to grab a treat from the bakery next door! read more

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A beautiful family friendly restaurant. With great outdoor seating. The food was amazing, the service was quick, kind and courteous. I had there duck and eggs and went next door to their bakery. The food and desserts were delicious! And don't forgot about the blueberry Mojito They also might have the best chocolate cake in the 757! read more

The food here never misses ! Of course there always a wait here, but it's worth it! Amy and her staff are amazing! Our server Kathy was amazing as well! The vibe continues to be upbeat and family friendly. I tried something new including the cider. Like I said, This place does not miss ! read more

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Leaping Lizard Cafe is a cute little earthy gem. It has a farm to table kind of atmosphere. It was very welcoming the whole staff was super polite and friendly. We received our food in a timely manner. Every thing was delicious I especially enjoyed the pancakes. I observed some of the other dishes as they came out and everything was eye catching I'll definitely come back to try one of their sandwiches. In addition, I noticed a chicken coop and a garden outdoors I thought that was really cool to know they grow at least some ingredients. There is a bakery, outdoor dinning and is pet friendly. read more

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Probably my favorite restaurant in Virginia Beach. Such a unique menu, and always tastes so fresh. The fish tacos are my favorite. If you have a sweet tooth - the bakery is unmatched and even has gluten free options, best gluten free cake around. Really fun vibes in there and all the staff is awesome. Also cool to hang out with the farm ducks and friendly dog. read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Fresh fish and New York strip - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Easily made reservations on Open Table for girls brunch on Saturday. Parking looked a bit sketch, but a nice young gentleman directed us into available spots. Love the whole vibe of this quaint little place! Super nice staff provided us with crazy fast service. The drinks were tasty, but not much alcohol at all. My blueberry mojito just tasted like juice. The breakfast sandwich was good and filling, and my crab cake Benedict was interesting, but too sweet for my taste with that sweet potato biscuit. read more

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This little restaurant was my favorite on a road trip across the USA beginning in California. Care is evident in the decor, definitely the delicious well curated food, drinks. It seems all menu items are reasonably priced, especially since I was told this is a farm to table restaurant. Everything seemed fresh & not a single thing was fried! The owner paints & sells adorable oyster shells. Love this place! I'll be back in June! read more

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We travel with Mae, our pt mix, and sometimes look for dog friendly restaurants. We spoil her, I know. This spot has great food and service and the outdoor seating has chicken coops. Mae loved that. Perfect day for this! We will be back. read more

I had bookmarked this place after a triple d episode. I liked the eclectic atmosphere and friendly staff who quickly told us food is made to order so flexibility is a plus in my opinion . My family was mixed on the menu. Someone in our group ordered plain pancakes and they were kind of undercooked. I got the breakfast burrito and really enjoyed it. My kids got brunch items and seemed satisfied. We went to the bakery next door but my family felt that was a fail. So we're mixed on the feelings about this place. But if i returned to the area i would try it again. read more

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I been to several brunch spots in va beach and this one definitely is the best one I've been to so far. Staff were super friendly and every single staff loved dogs which is a plus. All the dog owners are sat behind the restaurant and thankfully the weather wasn't bad. Every single thing we ordered was really good. You can taste that all the ingredient's used in all their food was top quality and seasoning was on point too. Duck hash was definitely the best I've had, breakfast burrito was good, shrimp and grits one of the better ones I've had, and chocolate chip pancakes best I've had and not overly sweet. Only thing that fell slightly short was the drinks. Definitely had better drinks in other establishments, but the food was on point and will definitely return. read more

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What have I been missing? I've lived here for years and never gone to this place! I've been missing out! I went for lunch and had the crab quiche with old bay aioli. So good! The ingredients were so fresh. The food was perfectly cooked and the service was friendly. Immediately adding to my favorites list! read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Menu - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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I stopped by the Leaping Lizard Cafe recently with a friend of mine for breakfast and he was blown away by the food, staff and general atmosphere here. The Leaping Lizard Cafe is located on Shore Drive in the heart of Virginia Beach. I will say right off the bat, this place gets busy so it pays to shop early if you don't want to wait for a table. When it's nice outside, they have outdoor dining. I highly recommend checking it out because it's so beautiful out there. The staff is super friendly and helpful with menu questions and suggestions if you're on the fence about what to order. I really enjoy the eggs Benedict and I've learned over the years to let my server know exactly how I like mine prepared. I like a warm runny center on my eggs. I like the English muffins to be lightly toasted. I find when I communicate how I prefer my order to be, most will honor my request. There are some that ignore my requests and that aggravates me to no end. I couldn't be happier with my experience at the Leaping Lizard Cafe and I highly recommend a visit. read more

Great service. Great ambiance. Food has excellent quality ingredients, however menu choices needs to be improved. Example- I love quiche- however they only offer crab meat quiche. I hate crab meat quiche. I live a good burger- however they only offer a combo meat venison burger. I prefer to eat beef or turkey. Sides with sandwiches are not very good. Cold potato side is very bland . Apple slaw is way too small and way too tart. Turkey BLT needed a more flavorful condiment. Noticed most people ordered salad with salmon on top. May not be back. read more

I really enjoyed a late breakfast at the leaping lizard Cafe. We ordered the quiche and a breakfast burrito and both were of course you can get a drink with that so I guess that makes it brunch! The little side salad and apple slaw put this meal over the top. Great service and a unique atmosphere make this a must stop when I'm in Virginia Beach. read more

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The food presentation is poor and the taste is bland at best. Unappetizing. The atmosphere is great. The service is mediocre. read more

Brunch has no limits at the Leaping Lizard! Tucked away among greenery, this spot serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. It's usually crowded, especially on weekends, so a reservation is a good way to go. Went with three other folks who were all impressed with their meals. The brunch menu has great specialties for those who prefer savory or sweet items. Their baked goods are also great! read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Duck hash with sweet potato biscuit - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

The Best Brunch & Lunch in Hampton Roads!! Can't wait to go there for Dinner! The service is outstanding! Love the hospitality, atmosphere of course the chickens ....hahaha read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

What a great find! We lucked out finding this gem! Farm to table food. Unique decor, inside/outside seating, and a fun vibe. Our breakfast sandwich was awesome and the potato salad and slaw were so good we missed them in the pic! Lol read more

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The food and the service were top notched. Had an amazing dinner with lovely desert. The wait staff were very friendly and knew the menu well. read more

I had to write a review on top of my wife's review. We were both super disappointed and frustrated we had a horrible first experience. I understand that the weekends can be very very busy! I totally understand and am patient, but we waited almost an 1hr and a half to get our food just to get it to go. We sat and waited and watched as people of groups of 5 and 6 got there food... The lady was not even apologetic about the situation and when we asked about our food she just said " The kitchen was backed up" but if that were the case why did other people after us get there food! It was very frustrating if she would have admitted to forgetting to put in our order it would have been fine, i am super disappointed on top of that i paid for something i did not even eat. HORRIBLE SERVICE ON HER BEHALF. The only thing i can say i tried was the coffee and the bloody mary they were great. Sadly i don't think i would come here again. read more

Leaping Lizard Cafe - Coffee and bloody mary. - Cafes Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Nice place. Food was very good and the service was great. Tuna tacos were delicious and they have a bakery that has a wide selection of desserts. read more

If you're looking for a cozy, unique and welcoming atmosphere, you've found it. Perfect for casual brunches and lunches with amazing indoor and outdoor seating. We came on a Saturday around 11:30am and we were seated outside with no wait. Service was great, food was good. I wouldn't say that any of the food blew our socks off, but it felt like a well-done, cozy home cooked meal, which is often exactly what you want. We tried: Blueberry Biscuit Breakfast burrito Crab quiche All good! read more

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Still one of the best spots for lunch in VB. The organic offerings and local produce never fail to please. I moved out of the area and it is still worth a commute from Richmond if I'm going to drive down and meet friends for lunch in Virginia Beach. It's got great ambience and is a reminder of why I like small locally owned places. Plus, their food is not filled with chemical additives or preservatives nor GMO and glycosphate saturated products like every chain restaurant in VB. read more