I wanted to love this restaurant...really I did. I was excited to go there. The environment is quirky and the chef is a James Beard semi-finalist (2016). Unfortunately...it was not good. I'm giving a star for the wine and a star for the service. The food was terrible. The skirt steak was actually an old sirloin. Not aged...expired. When we cut into it, it tasted like it had been in the fridge too long. To add insult to injury, it was still blue inside the middle. I hate to say this but the meat tasted like an old spot buy... absolutely awful. We sent it back. The other meal was rock fish...dried out and unseasoned. Plus it was super small...about 1 inch wide by two inches long. I love rock fish and this was the worst I have ever had. I didn't eat much but we felt bad about sending two dishes back given nobody else was in the restaurant. Honestly, I should have. The overly smoked mushy vegetables were absolutely disgusting. Even after washing my hands several times I could still smell the smoke on my hands, even though I never touched it. It seemed like the chef dropped an entire liquid smoke bottle into the vegetables which tasted like they were canned from 2022. Honestly, I should have known better. Nobody was in the restaurant when the Hilton down the street and other restaurants nearby were packed. When we sat down the table was sticky. We sent the dead sirloin back and still spent over 125 dollars and left hungry. Sorry for the awful review...but this was a terrible experience. read more

It does not get better than Syd's FishPig Cafe. I cannot visit Norfolk, without making sure I can squeeze in a meal here! The dining room is cozy, inviting, and entertaining. Between the lively bar, the open kitchen, and the art covering every surface, there is always something to look at and strike up conversation. There's no such thing as a boring meal at Syd's. To start, I love to sample the rotating whiskey barrel. There's always some version of whiskey infused with different flavors that's ready to try. Paired with Syd's crusty bread and salt & pepper butter.... perfect comfort. My favorite dish is the flounder, and I end up licking the plate every time. It is served with a creamy crawfish sauce with out of this world flavors. As much as I want to know how Syd pulls off flavors that are so unique and full of depth, I'm happy knowing that I can always come here for an incredible culinary experience. The menu changes seasonally, depending on the local ingredients. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu, but the pork-o-rama is always a win! I've enjoyed the salads, soups, ettouffe, gumbo, and steaks. Every dish is incredible. Make sure to grab a bottle of Delish Sauce and Not-Hot Sauce on your way out. Syd makes them all himself, including smoking the tomatoes which adds that wonderful je ne sais quoi. I'm a huge fan. I will follow Chef Syd anywhere! read more

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Phenomenal service and food. I love the first Sunday of the month brunch here. Great cocktails. We started with the bread and butter. I had the blackberry corn pancakes and loved them. read more

Fun cafe great food. Love sydney meers. He also does cooking classes. Brunch first Sunday of the month. Go check it out.

Well! I had high hopes for this place. It seems to be a fun and quirky place to have a bite to eat with all the random items scattered around. But unfortunately the food was a major fail. Not sure if they are going down hill lately because another review sounds just like my experience. I got flounder and there was no ounce of seasoning that went in any of the food. My co workers ordered the aged steak and she immediately said it was horrible and not cooked well at all. It had a very wild smell to it too. My other co workers got the catch of the day and couldn't even cut through the fish, it was like rubber. Both my co workers sent their dishes back and the waiter was scared to hear me say my plate was bad so they ended up keeping one plate on the bill even though I wish I could have sent my plate back too. I have never been to a place where everyone's food was horrible and it's too bad because looks like the place has potential. not to mention the long wait to have bad food. read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - Unseasoned fish and shriveled up, overcooked shrimp with tasteless rice - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

What a cute eclectic little bistro along Main St. in Norfolk! It offers a very nice menu with very creative offerings. The fish we had was delicious and super flavorful. The wine choices were wonderful. I especially loved their bread and cheese selections. We asked for chef's choice and they were wonderful! Our server was super friendly and helpful. My only criticism would be that I was dining with a friend who had serious food allergies and her choices were a bit limited. Even with due diligence about her choices, she ending up having an allergic reaction to something that she ate. We still aren't sure what it was, unfortunately. With all of that said, I'd certainly recommend dining here. It offers so much for its customers. read more

Truly one of the most original, flavorful, and charming places in Norfolk! I was as delighted with the food and service as I was with the eclectic art on the walls. Located in Selden Market in downtown Norfolk, it's a can't-miss dining experience, specializing in Southern and Cajun/Creole dining. Don't miss out on their rotating cheese selections, served with house bread of the day, smoky ham, and a delicious and tangy relish. If you like steak, pork, and seafood, you're in luck!! I've tried a few of their seafood offerings and have always been very impressed. I had shrimp and grits this visit: the shrimp were perfectly cooked, the grits were super flavorful, and I could have drank the broth everything sat in with a straw. If you need a dinner that will fill your belly and soul with goodness, Syd and the team at FishPig will oblige! read more

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I'll start with the tl;dr version: come here, get the pork-o-rama, get the gumbo, enjoy the quirky art, savor the food... slowly. It gets better with each bite. The long version: after arriving in Norfolk for a few days away from the Texas heat (in March, ugh), we decided to hit Syd's for an early dinner on a Saturday. It did not disappoint. In fact, we were very impressed by the flavors and unique combinations. We don't like "precious" places. We like authentic, real feeling places where you are served dishes with a unique profile and a slow table turnover atmosphere. Syd's was exactly what we like. We decided on our two dishes because we both wanted to try them. I had the delicious gumbo, my spouse had the pork-o-Rama. The gumbo was perfectly spicy - not too much, the perfect slow burn. The celery and tomatoes in particular were part of what made this such a beautiful dish, along with the two types of sausage, four very large shrimp, tender bits of fish, sweet crawfish tails, and a tasty slice of pork belly. It was great. AND... it took second place against the pork plate. I was instantly jealous of my husband's selection, and I still loved my gumbo. The pork pie is a mysteriously wonderful collaboration between a perfect shortcrust pastry and a somehow sweet and savory pork filling that keeps you wanting more. The handmade sausage patty was so delicious, not fatty, with a great texture and flavor that is not like any other sausage I've had. The pork belly was awesome, but third place behind the pie and patty. The accompanying vegetables were excellent as well, and the sauce was the perfect complement to the pork belly and pie. Now, it's true that the service was slow, but that was fine by us. They even warn you about it in the menu! This is slow food, not mass produced food. We were glad to be left to enjoy each bite, without pressure. read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - Gumbo - the shrimp are buried under the rice - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Intimate ambience & elevated food experience without being fussy. Just go! Alone or with friends, you will enjoy every bit! I can't wait to go back for amazing craft cocktails, friendly service and unique menu. read more

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This is a FANTASTIC place! The made to order, high quality food, the curated cocktails, the engaging, interesting staff, (Syd calls them salestrons) the owner-chef personally preparing the food, and the unique, one of a kind decor-art are just a few reasons to go! Located in up and coming Seldon Market, another interesting place to visit, downtown Norfolk is fantastic and this is a must stop! read more

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Syd's FishPig Cafe is a quirky restaurant that offers an ever-changing menu of seasonal items. We came here for dinner, having made advance reservations. We ordered: +my infamous cheese tray - some of the cheeses and the ham salad were unavailable, but the housemade crackers were delicious, and the relish was a nice topping to the spread +house aged strip - this was meaty and juicy; we weren't really fans of the root veggies, as some were a little undercooked +fish o rama - fish was flaky, delicate, and light Service was friendly and welcoming. We even were greeted by Chef Syd himself, who was super kind! I loved the decor of the place - loved the collections and how it made the eatery cozy and unique. Definitely a option if you're in the area. +rotating seasonal menu +reservations recommended read more

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The food and service is excellent. We had the scallops and rockfish and both were exceptional. As usual Syd provides a great meal which dates back to his Dumbwaiter days! read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - Scallops - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Stopped by here while waiting for an event. Sat at the bar and ordered the Pink Piggie Martini. This was such a delish refreshing drink, I would definitely get this again. It so electic inside just like how his former restaurant Stove was but this place is so much bigger than Stove but still intimate feeling. I look forward to coming here for a date night in the future. read more

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Chose this to get out of the cold, menu seemed interesting, went in with very little expectations. Was completely Wow'd! Ordered the seafood app (this immediately sent my expectations up) the flavors were well balanced and thought out. Our group ordered the etouffe, pork o Rama, and flounder. It was FANTASTIC! All of it! My crazy husband Decided I needed dessert for my birthday, Again! Wow. read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Amazing food and atmosphere. Unique picks of fish, very fresh, cooked to perfection. Top quality but still relaxed and quirky environment. Just wonderful read more

Boy was I in another world. Syd's was a wild place. I swear I kept looking around and my face looked like an :o while I looked at every art piece. Aesthetics aside it is a very eclectic but tasty Louisiana style food. It was a quiet dinner considering it was the parade weekend , but that made it great. I had the flounder with crawfish, which was spicy and creamy but also amazing. My wife got the Bowl, which was a trifecta of shrimp, flounder, and pork. Savory and worth. I'd go again to try the etoufee, as it looks really good. Awesome service and chill waiter. read more

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Oh my word! What a gem we stumbled upon for an early bite last weekend. This is absolutely authentic gulf coastal dining. I am a big fan of New Orleans and the gulf coast style food and this place has it on lock down. Very casual, come as you are but the chef is ON POINT. Thank you for an excellent meal with great service. read more

The atmosphere is really good, their staff are friendly. I love the spicy taste of The Bowl, their fish is depending on market supply, you may have different fish in your dish. I love their food. read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - Visitin Fish - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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I really look for two things when eating out. I look for places where my dish will not be some variation of something else I've had 1000 times, and I look for whether it's done well. This place scores high marks on both accounts. I had the pork-o-Rama on the suggestion of my server. Everything was great and cooked expertly. I can't remember the name of an almost pot pie type item that was just amazing. Can't even put into words. Definitely worth it. read more

Incredible food and incredible atmosphere. My partner and I both lived in the Deep South and this rivals any place we went to on the gulf coast. Could not recommend more. Our server was clearly busy, but we never felt forgotten, and she was a true professional. We will be returning! read more

Appetizers were good - after adding salt, pepper and a squirt of lemon. Main entrees were not good - Fish dish had a strong order and tasted tainted. Waitress was not pleasant. I do not plan to revisit. read more

Sydney is a master at what he does! His food is delicious and his desserts are never too sweet! Decor and vibe of the restaurant is so fun and eclectic! It's quiet. I've never had a bad time here!!! Syd also does cooking classes!!! Would HIGHLY recommend! read more

The drinks. The food. The atmosphere. I have been a handful of times and love it more each time. read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - Bourbon and champagne fancy cocktail. Cannot recall the name but the combination is not to be slept on - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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We were at the Hilton next door a week and regretted that we didn't get here until our last free night. Absolutely the best meal we had in Norfolk and also in months! Yea started with a tasty salad and I had the shrimp and grits. The S&G was different from any other I've ever had. More liquid, but full of cheesy flavor. I had the flounder etouffé. The flounder was crispy on the outside and perfectly prepared. It sat on a bed of sautéed onion, peppers and celery with a spicy tomato sauce and three beautiful shrimp. The Pork o Rama was a sausage patty, lean pork belly and a pork meatloaf in a buttery pie crust. On the sides of the plate were Syd's special sauce and homemade ketchup. It was fantastic! We shared the cobbler in the same delicious pie crust. I wish we had a place like this in Southern California. We'd be there every week! read more

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Amazing food. We were in from out of town. Loved it. We had to come back a second time.

First and foremost, this place passes the vibe check 100%! I loved the New Orleans, deep South feel you get when you walk in. The variety of Kasian dishes was also great because not everyone in our party was a huge seafood eater. They were also some very eclectic drinks offered, which made it even more fun. My only critique, and this is probably just because of my own personal preference, is that the dishes could've used a smidge more salt then what they came with. Otherwise read more

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Myself and a fellow yelper decided to run it in here for a quick drink as we waited for our Yelp event to begin. We were greeted by the wonderful barista. We also got to meet the cook and who I am assuming is Syd. My fellow yelper had been to another restaurant I believe they owned. The drink I had had a sprig of orange and it was delicious and strong. The price was a little high but it did the job and I knew why the price was what it was. The ambience was definitely eclectic. And pretty cool. I wouldn't have expected anything less. If I'm in the area I will check it out again. read more

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There are many words that I could use to describe the food, but the best I can think of is PHENOMENAL! The service, vibes, conversation and people are wonderful here! We loved our waitress and her selections for the cheese plate appetizer and our entrees were right in point!! We will absolutely be back! read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - Étouffée - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Hands down our favorite restaurant. You'll never find a better shrimp and grits. Syd, the owner, is so creative and talented with his dishes, and is so personable and kind every time we go. Every entree, appetize, dessert or cocktail is made to such high quality perfect; we've never tried something here that we haven't liked. This quirky, cute place will blow you away. read more

If you like raw and no flavor this is your place! My fish was definitely undercooked, the waitress asked if I wanted to get it cooked for longer but I said no. She kept talking to me in a very patronizing manner and I was ready to get out of there. She asked me if i ever had sushi. This fish does not do well undercooked because is super chewy. The veggies didn't taste of anything. Very disappointed. read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Stopped in on a Saturday shortly after opening for a cocktail with my husband before our dinner reservation elsewhere. I had passed this restaurant many times and was excited to go inside. We were greeted by the woman bartender whom was less than friendly. Upon telling her we were interested in a cocktail she started they started at $15 and up. Obviously based on the location downtown and menu, that was expected. She gave us a menu anyway and told us about the cooking classes and house made sauces. My husband ordered a beer and myself the piggy martini. Bartender stated they were a wine bar that specialized in pairing wine with foods.. it felt like she was not interested in serving us or making me a cocktail. read more

What a great eclectic hole in the wall with fantastic food and service. Would be a five, but ran into some difficulty when they gave us the wrong main dish. I don't discount the fact that they had a large group come in, slamming the kitchen. They made it right though. We will be back! Thank you. read more

This place served gourmet food at a reasonable price in a quirky, casual setting. I had the large flounder that was served with a moderately spicy sauce and my wife had the shrimp and grits. Both were excellent!! We also shared an outstanding salad with homemade dressing. The waiter was friendly and knowledgeable. Best meal I've had in a long time! read more

Syd's Fishpig is a hidden treasure. I stayed at the Marriott across the street several times and walked right by. I am so glad I finally came in. It blew my mind - imagine all of your Granny's treasured recipes taken to another level. You can taste Chef Sid's passion in every bite. Just about everything is house made from the light and airey sour dough to the sublime pastries. I tried pork O Rama - was stocked with meat pies, sausages, hams and grits. Again all home made! I was stuffed but after tasting the melt in your mouth pork pie - I had to have dessert. I am so glad I did - the Sextuplet dessert was just heavenly. The three types of chocolate interpolated like a symphony on my palate. Not too sweet but with a complex deep rich flavor. Paired with chantilly cream it was the perfect end to a glorious meal! The only thing better than the meal was the service by Mr. Jimmy. Made me feel like a VIP and was so knowledgeable. He truly was my culinary guide on this amazing adventure. The decor was fun and interesting- just like the food! Will definitely be back! read more

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Holy cow, this place is fantastic. If you're a foodie in Hampton Roads, this is a must visit. Interesting dishes, very fresh, exceptional flavors. From the sourdough and butter, to the varied cheese plate, the salad (WTF), and the flounder- talk about dialing it in! read more

What a find! The food was fantastic. I had shrimp and grits. Sat at the bar and chatted with the friendly bartender. The drinks were outstanding, just like the service. The atmosphere is very cool. Very authentic. Check it out. read more

As we were walking to another place for dinner, we stopped to check our directions and looked up and were drawn in by the interesting look of the place. We stepped in and were not disappointed! Great service! Syd was an awesome host, definitely worth giving it a go! read more

Delicious! Absolutely delicious! Staff was wonderful and recommended wine that was perfect for our meals. Well done!

we're so glad syd is back!!! our meal was outstanding. for appetizers we had the tuna and the shrimp and hush puppies. our main course was the halibut for me and the etouffee for my husband. both were flavorful and cooked to perfection. steaming hot and served beautifully. the coconut pie was the perfect ending. so happy to have a syd inspired restaurant again! read more

A fabulous and quirky spot not to be overlooked. Their drinks are phenomenal and the staff is beyond wonderful. We got drinks and will be back for their food. read more

Syd's FishPig Cafe - Pink piggie martini and sunrise on the bay martini - New American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia