Waterman's was an excellent brunch experience and we will definitely be returning soon. The food came out hot, fresh, and absolutely delicious. A special shoutout to our waitress, Nikki, who was amazing. We had several substitutions, sides, and food allergies within our group, and what could have easily turned into incorrect orders was handled perfectly. She got everything right, was attentive, professional, and made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable. It was brunch time and not too busy, which made for a relaxed atmosphere. Highly recommend trying the fried chicken, shrimp and crab omelette, and the home fries. Everything was flavorful and prepared perfectly. Great food, outstanding service, and a wonderful overall experience. Highly recommend! read more

Upon arrival the valet was really cool and they work on tips. They were super friendly and I must say they were truly a dream, respectful of my vehicle and I didnt have a long wait time upon pick either. There was quite a few people here on a Monday night and that was actually really refreshing. I was seated on the covered patio outside which wasn't an issue. It was a bit chilly outside but it was fine where I was but I was happy I had on long sleeves. After being seated my server greeted and told what the fish of the day was, which was rock fish but I settled on the Cajun chicken pasta. I didn't wait long for the food at all, at first I thought that was pretty awesome until I received my pasta and it was drier than the Sahara desert. Then to add insult to injury there was a charge to have sauce added but so be it because there was no amount of swishing around my pasta to spread the sauce to even attempt to be satisfied. The sauce creation took longer than it did to get the actual meal and that's what earned the 3 stars because my meal was certainly cold by the time I received the sauce. Ridiculous. My server via it all did check on me and by no means did I hold it against him at all and still tipped him handsomely. Did I mention this was my first time here on a solo date for self...first impressions huh smh I will have to come back again to see if the service is better on a warmer day. Wasnt impressed by yesterday's meal but the customer service was great with the actual people interaction l had. read more

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The food was wonderful. Soup and crab cakes had the best crabmeat. Fresh, tender and textured perfect as if I shelled it myself. Service was excellent and quick. Restaurant is absolutely beautiful inside with a great view of the boardwalk and beach. Only downside, which is with many beach restaurants, parking. There is public parking a block away. Otherwise you can valet. read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Crab cakes - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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I was very excited to try Waterman's based on other reviews, but it did not live up to what I expected. The best part about waterman's are the drinks especially the crushes. The mozzarella sticks were nice and crispy and were the best part of our meal. When it comes to crab cakes I am very picky. The sauce that comes with the crab cakes compliments them very well. The mashed potatoes are were very basic and I wished they had more flavor. The coleslaw was awful and tasted like they had been made with dirty dish water. We ate there late and they were still very busy. I would definitely come back, but only for the crushes. The service was great, but the food was lack luster. read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Mozzarella sticks - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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This was my husband & my first visit to Waterman's. It was recommended to him by a work colleague. We travel to Va Beach quite frequently & I have to admit, I have not been as attentive as I thought I was when it comes to great places to dine because sadly I did not have this restaurant on my radar. However, after this visit, that error on my part will be remedied. We both absolutely enjoyed our dining experience at Waterman's. The service was impeccable. The decor & ambience was very complimentary to the beachfront vibe.The food was absolutely spectacular. The cocktails we ordered were delightful. They were bright, citrusy & perfectly mixed. We ordered the she crab soup & a Caesar salad as our appetizers. The She Crab Soup was rich & velvety. It had a nice mellow yet flavorful taste of crab. The Caesar salad was nice & fresh & not overpowered with dressing. I ordered the Shrimp Platter as my entree and the shrimp were perfectly cooked. The fries that came with the platter were delicious. The platter also came with Cole Slaw. I am not a Cole slaw fan so I did not really eat it. So I cannot really rate the taste of it. My husband ordered the Crab cakes & although I neglected to get a picture, he said they were delicious. Full of ample amounts of actual crab meat. He ordered the key lime pie as dessert & I did get a taste & it was rich, smooth with a beautiful not overly tart key lime taste. Waterman's is now definitely on our go there whenever we are in Va Beach list. I highly recommend giving a try if you are in the area. read more

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Loved the service. We were immediately seated where our waitress was so sweet and lets us know the drinks of the day due to the monster truck on the beach event. She said usually the view is amazing but since there was a monster truck rally getting ready to start we got to see tents and food trucks lol. I loved my meal my cousins and I got the same meal with a few differences but it was very filling. The crab dip was so amazing. I loved how smooth it was and tasty. My meal was the just seafood meal made with lemon, butter white wine and old bay seasoning. Well done! Old bay was not overdone as it can be at some places. I was able to sub items instead of fries I got hush puppies and instead of Cole slaw I got mixed veggies read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Just seafood with jumbo shrimp scampi, scallops and crab meat with lemon, butter white wine and old bay seasoning. Hush puppies - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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This place is amazing! It overlooks the beach so you have an amazing view while you eat. Their seafood were all very fresh and delicious. Their calamari and crab cakes are absolutely amazing and are a must have! read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Just Seafood and fried fish tacos - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Great restaurant for a Family dinner out. She-crab soup was excellent. Apps of calamari were just ok. A little too greasy. Suggest ordering 1/2 rack of ribs for app instead! Rockfish that wife ordered was excellent quality as was my fish tacos. Kids ordered steak and crabcakes as well as blacked tuna. All excellent. Definitely would recommend for a seafood fix. read more

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This place was awesome! Great food, service and atmosphere! We got the broiled platter...just seafood + lobster tail! Also cocktails! Must go. Will not disappoint! read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Ultimate just seafood. Hush puppies. Cole slaw - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

This was recommended and we were happy. I love seafood and he can't eat it......but this was a happy balance. We sat on the covered yet heated patio with a great view of the beach. Tony the server was great with dish recommendation and attentiveness. The crab cake was fried; trying something out of my norm, I get broiled. That crab cake had no flavor, not even Old Bay. It was as if they forgot. I use the calamari sauce, which was delicious. Mashed potatoes (taste like instant mashed potatoes) and broccoli were bland as well. I just made it work because I was starving. Babe had the Cajun Chicken Pasta yup he loved it, devoured it.....said it was so delicious. Didn't even offer a taste of it. Orange Crush drink was 10/10 he had 2 and sucked them down so fast. Calamari was good no flavor without the sauce Hush puppies were cooked perfectly and good She crab soup was amazing!!! Lump crab filled i love that. -----‐------------------------------------- When we first walked in we are politely greeted, to the left small store and to the right a bar area. Then there was a dog on a leash with no sort of vest but told it was a service dog. Instead of seating at the bar we decided patio, to not eat with dog hair floating around our food. Dog allergies are real and people aren't considerate of others. Food: 3 star Service: 5 star Atmosphere: 3 star It was the service for me........ read more

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Waterman's is always a solid choice when I'm in the area. The she-crab soup is incredible, the handmade mozzarella sticks are next level, and they make a really great Old Fashioned. Everything tastes fresh and well executed without feeling over the top. The ambiance really adds to it too. It has that polished, coastal feel that makes it a nicer dining experience, but still feels comfortable and relaxed. It works just as well for a casual night out as it does for a more intentional dinner, and the atmosphere makes it easy to settle in and enjoy your time. What really stands out, though, is the staff. Everyone is genuinely friendly and makes you feel welcome from the minute you walk in. It's one of those places that's just easy to enjoy, whether you're grabbing a drink at the bar or sitting down for a full meal. read more

Pretty good eatery for my first time out in Virginia! Recommended by Steven before his marathon run that next morning. Meal tasted fresh and fine...likely because the nearby bodies of water have lots of fish there. But, the servings were not too filling. I was still hungry even after I finished my plate. Staff seemed a bit rushed when they were taking down orders and checking in with the table when they deemed that it was time for dessert or an alcoholic drink. Had to reiterate that I was taking a bit to look at the menu because I wanted something that Virginia state is known for. Took about 30 minutes to wait for table, which was fitting for Steven and me because it allowed us time to walk around Virginia Beach. Staff notified us that it would take an hour.. anyway, We got to see the next-door boutique, too, which had overpriced items only. I like that this restaurant has a dining inside and outside of building, and both locations managed to keep guests warm enough while they ate and talk. Very loud at this location, so be sure to speak up when you order read more

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Amazing service. My dad and I came during the off season and although it was quiet, there was a nice ambiance. The food was fresh tasting and delicious! Great spot for a nice family outing read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Crab stuffed fish of the day - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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We come here on our annual trip to VA beach. The ambiance is typical for a seafood house - somewhat loud especially on the covered patio, but it has a view of the beach. I had the fried oysters which were excellent! My partner had the first seafood which is always fresh and a good sized portion. Fries are in a dedicated frier so gluten free for those who need. I was not crazy about the crabcake but my family really likes it (I'm from MD so picky). The seafood Mediterranean pasta was also wonderful and flavorful and fresh. Orange crush is a must! Service was great. read more

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Excellent place to stop off at for lunch and grab a burger or seafood. Family friendly and great view of the ocean. Excellent staff. Never had any issues with any food or person inside the establishment. This is probably one of the most busiest establishments at the oceanfront and is always packed. read more

I was on vacation in VA Beach and Waterman's was recommended to me! It was popping and seems like it is always busy, so I would go early! The good thing is that you can sit at the bar and order food and drinks, so my friend and I went to the outdoor bar and could sit right away, instead of waiting for an hour! We were told we needed to try these specialties-- orange crush cocktail, she crab soup, and crab fries. All of these were so amazing! We also ordered fried shrimp and fried oysters, but felt this was too heavy and not as good as the appetizers. If I were to go back, I would just order several appetizers and share! Sitting at the bar has pros and cons. Pros: no wait, watching the bartenders make the drinks in front of you, and quick service! Cons: bees flying everywhere! They left us alone, but be aware. read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Crab fries, she crab soup, orange crush - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Waterman's Surfside Grill is a lively friendly tasty 40-year-old bar and seafood restaurant. If you time it right, you can get a terrific view of the ocean in their "stadium-tiered" seating. Their reservations policy says it can change, and this day it was for groups of 6 or more, and we were only two. We got there before 7pm on a Sunday this past 4th of July weekend, and they were hopping! We left our car with the free valet (tips accepted on the way out :-), and asked for ocean-view seating, then waited in the lively bar up front, where friendly busy bartenders were flying, keeping up with a hectic scene. Start with their famous orange crushes, strong and sweet, which Waterman says that their earlier establishment introduced to Virginia Beach about a decade ago, and which are something of a fixture around town. Mighty refreshing! We didn't wait long at all, maybe 15 minutes, and were whisked to a corner window table! Plenty of people-watching on the boardwalk, and the ocean put on a splashy show in advance of an offshore storm, which also brought out some creative kites. The two of us shared some apps and plates, (and several more crushes :-), and kept the price quite reasonable for such delicious fresh seafood. Their lightly flash-fried calamari was tender with just enough bite, with zingy banana pepper rings and a rich orange-chipotle dipping sauce that shows off the smokey-sweet flavor of that pepper. The good-size scallops were delicate and juicy and gently-seared with veggies. A very satisfying generous serving of five scallops. Our shared main dish was the perfectly blackened "coldwater" salmon with fresh-cilantro rice and lightly sauteed veggies, a well-prepared taste sensation. All were delicious offerings! Everyone here was friendly and efficient and busy, and the food and drinks were fabulous. A shoutout (and a well-deserved full-dinner tip) to our wonderful attentive server who never flinched at our small party dining lightly and drinking specials at a window table during a busy dinner hour :-). read more

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2025 July Back 1 year later and the food and service was still very good. It was Friday so no happy menu which is a great deal. read more

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I would like to share some beautiful photos of perfectly plated food, but full disclosure- I started scarfing everything down the second the waiter dropped it on the table. We (a party of 6) arrived mid-afternoon on a holiday weekend (the Sunday after the busy July 4 beach celebration) and were promptly seated. It's worth noting here that Waterman's has great tables for slightly larger parties- nice round tables so you can actually face and speak to everyone in the party. You don't feel boxed in or squished next to your neighbor. Our waiter, whose name I wish I'd written down, was absolutely fantastic. He gave us a quick run down on the specials and handed out the lunch menus. I'd prescanned the menu online and was disappointed to see the lunch menu didn't have the "just scallops" dish I'd been craving and he waved off my disappointment and said that they could make anything off the dinner menu as well. Waterman's claims to be the home of the original orange crush drink. If you follow the crush scene, you likely already know there's some controversy over whether it was actually originated in Ocean City or Virginia Beach. I'm no beverage historian, so I won't hazard a guess as to accuracy of that claim but I will say Waterman's ALWAYS has the best crushes. They use actual hand operated citrus crush machines to squeeze out fresh OJ, add triple sec, their own Waterman's distilled crush vodka, and a splash of sprite. The result is refreshing, tasty, and gives a nice kick! The crush I had this day was no exception. Two of my guests were out-of-towners so after indoctrinating them on the necessity of an orange crush, I explained that the crown jewel here for me is the she-crab soup. It's the best on the oceanfront, and if you skip it then you're missing out. All six of us indulged, and all six of us were moaning with pleasure as we did so. My "just scallops" were just perfect! Huge, drenched in butter and seasoning, served alongside rice and veggies, it was my idea of a perfect meal. Note that you get to select two sides, these are my go-tos but you have other options as well including mashed potatoes, fries, hush puppies, and various other items. My husband decided to get the tuna sandwich and absolutely raved about it. It looked to be cooked perfectly, not overdone and not raw. Funny note, he said, "I don't usually love tuna but this is incredible" and I wondered why he ordered tuna if he doesn't usually love it but that orange crush may have gone to his head. We left with our guests feeling spoiled and fat, the way one should after a REALLY good meal! If you want to experience a truly good meal in a really beautiful setting- hit up Waterman's! read more

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Throughly enjoy our lunch. Service and staff was friendly. Definitely can't wait to return and try the crab cakes. read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Seafood mediterranean - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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I came on a Thursday evening and was told they only accept walk in only, no reservations. I arrived at 6:15 to get a table for 7 and was quoted about 1.5 hr wait. While that wait I went to the backside to have an orange crush drink while the wait. It was such a good cocktail and felt refreshing!After about an hour and half they had the table ready. I got the Crab Stuffed Fish of the day ($33) and take came out in about 30 minutes. The crab and fish were phenomenal! The crab was the star of the meal. The vegetables and rice were lacking a bit, but they were just the sides. Staff and service were ok given on busy it was. Food(50%): 8.3 Staff/service(25%): 6.0 Value(25%): 6.0 Overall: 7.2/10 read more

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Staff were helpful and friendly. Our order was delivered quickly. No complaints on food or service.

Updating from my original review of Waterman's when I ordered the "just seafood" platter that was mediocre at best. Decided to give it another try & get something different. This time, I ordered the seafood cajun cream sauce pasta and it was Delicious! Now I see why so many people enjoy this place. Unfortunately, the first time I just didn't order their best entree. Still really enjoyed the ambiance of this ocean view restaurant-- this time with a delicious plate of food! read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Waterman's original pasta Shrimp, scallops, andouille, red bell peppers, onions, & linguine with Cajun cream sauce - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

I'm not often around VA Beach but when I am I have to make a stop at Waterman's. It's been my go-to spot for years now. I love the cajun pastas - both the Waterman's original pasta and the cajun chicken pasta. I've also had a few appetizers (calamari, she crab soup, hushpuppies) and drinks (orange crush, strawberry lemonade, lemon crush) and they have all been great too, though the drinks are a bit smaller than I'd like. The restaurant is usually packed so you may have a wait. They have seating indoors, in their covered patio, and at the bar. read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Cajun Chicken Pasta - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

I appreciate that the bar area seating is open which includes booths for up to 5. I ordered the fried flounder, the fish of the day and it was really good. I wish I received more than 1 piece but it was a good amount for a meal. The broccoli and potatoes were good too. The waitress was very nice and made sure we were happy with our meals. read more

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Came here with a party of 10 (6 adults and 4 kids) and we were seated immediately. The place looked busy from the outside and we thought we'd have to wait long for a table. Many patrons opted to eat at their "indoor/outdoor" space to enjoy the chilly April weather and we were seated in a section that was quiet enough where we were disturbing other patrons or vice versa with 4 kids! The menu was extensive and offered the typical foods you'd find along a beach side restaurant (i.e.: burgers, friends, wraps, salads, etc.). I loved that the menu was extensive and offered something for everyone. I ordered the tropical chicken burger which was SO good that I wish I didn't share the other half with my husband. We tend to each other something different and split the dish so we can try different dishes. He ordered the pulled pork sandwich, which was disappointing. Salty and kind of dry and was just meh after shoving that tropical chicken in my mouth. Other dishes that were ordered was a fish tacos, buffalo bites, and a lot of drinks during their happy hour. Our waitress was amazing. With 10 people asking for different things at different times, she was really on top of us and made sure we didn't wait too long for whatever we asked for. She even gave us souvenir plastic cups that our drinks came in which was nice. If I ever came back to VB, this is definitely one place I would come back to! read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Tropical chicken sandwich - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

The 3 stars are for the waiter. He did an amazing job. I wish I got his name. Not much parking available, but the restaurant has valet that was very convenient. The atmosphere was lively and almost every seat had a view of the beach/water. The just seafood dish was just ok... jumbo shrimp wasn't jumbo, scallops were a little under cooked and not much lump to the lump crab meat... it tasted more like butter than anything else. Also, wasn't that impressed with the orange crush... maybe another flavor. This place came highly recommended... so I may have had a unique one-off bad experience. The service and atmosphere (and reputation) would bring me back for a second try if/when I'm back in the area. read more

Whenever my dad comes to visit, waterman's is at the top of his list for places to eat. From the views of the ocean, to the freshly squeezed orange crushes -- they don't disappoint. We came here for dinner on a Tuesday. It was relatively busy, but we didn't have to wait for a table inside. To start, we had a round of orange crushes, waterman's signature drink. There's only a few places that can nail this cocktail, and they sure do! We ordered the mussels in the white wine sauce for an appetizer. It came with warm pita bread which was perfect for dipping in the wine sauce. 10/10. For dinner, I ordered the crab cake sandwich (broiled) with fries. It was exactly what I was in the mood for, and didn't feel too heavy. My dad got the crab stuffed fish of the day, which was flounder. It came with rice and grilled veggies. He was so satisfied with his decision, and of course I had to take a bite! Delicious. Our waitress was very kind and professional. She told us her favorite menu items and was great with recommendations. Can't wait to come back this summer. read more

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Let me first start off by saying that the staff at Waterman's are so nice. My family and I dined at the restaurant on November 10, 2025, and were greeted by the hostess who immediately took us to a table with a nice view of the ocean. Our waiter immediately came over and shared drink recommendations and specials. We were in luck because all app's were half off on Monday's. We started with crab dip, tuna bites and the calamari. All were delicious and cooked perfectly. For entrees we ordered the mussels with thai red curry sauce and seafood platters. The food was awesome and came out fast. This place is very popular so I recommend using their reservations portal during the week as they release a limited number of reservations. Otherwise it's first come, first serve, especially on weekends. If you haven't been to Waterman's don't walk...run!! It's sooo good! read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Mussels with thai red curry sauce. - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Saturday night last minute dinner. We drove into the parking lot, valet quickly. Put our name in for a 30 minute wait, we were able to grab 2 seats in the bar. This is a busy place on weekends. I don't do research albeit, I'm grateful we came by. The blackened Greek salad, I would've said dressing on the side because it was overpowering with the pickled dressing. Great service! Great food at the bar! To our servers tonight, Thank You! read more

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I was recently on vacation in Virginia Beach and my friend brought me here for a week night dinner. Crab dip appetizer, fried seafood platter were delicious. Fresh seafood. Fish of the day. Each had its own special breading. It is perfect. Our server was helpful and pleasant. We sat in the covered outside patio on a lovely warm evening and watched people on the walkway. I highly recommend this restaurant for a great evening out. read more

This is a great seaside restaurant located right nest to the southern end of the boardwalk. It's tastefully decorated and the staff is prompt and helpful. The seafood is sooo fresh and delicious. Definitely somewhere you want to go if you are in town. There are long lines so be prepared to wait. Parking is also at a premium so plan accordingly. read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Catch of the day Flounder in peppercorns Parmesan sauce. - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Waterman's is located on the oceanfront in Virginia Beach. We were seated immediately and received good service. The she crab soup was bland and had pieces of crabmeat in it not lump. The broiled seafood platter was good, it just needed a little more seasoning but the cocktail sauce made up for it lol. The prices were comparable to the portions. The coleslaw was a little bland as well but I added malt vinegar to spice it up. The key lime pie was delicious. read more

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12 oz boneless rib eye was delicious. All my friends enjoyed their food as well. I had a not pictured blueberry lemonade which was absolutely tasty. Service was great and being on the water gives such a good vibe overall as the inside. read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - 12oz boneless ribeye with mashed potatoes and waited vegetables - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Had three days to visit the Hampton Roads area...and headed over to Virginia Beach for a seafood lunch -- and mid Atlantic crab was a must eat for me! Had lunch with a crab cake, fries and a side of broccoli salad...my wife had the She Crab soup. The tables were on a lovely patio with a view of the Atlantic boardwalk...overall this was a great lunch for ambiance, service and food. She crab soup (I had a few bites!) was delicious...as were the crab cakes! Great spot and we would both come back! read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Crab cake lunch!! - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

Visited this business January 2026 the broiled Rock Fish with the sauce was very good! The best dish on the menu is the seafood BISQUE!! The absolute best Bisque you could ever have! Fresh ,filled with seafood! I loved it so much I paid the 50.00 for the large and small to travel back to Philadelphia with me! My Fiancé had the fried platter. It was average a little dry. The staff were very professional and attentive. Hands down try the broiled dishes and the BISQUE!! You will have the best experience !! The place was comfortable we sat at a table in the back that was enclosed due to the season. Nice view of the beach ! I would most definitely go back for the SEAFOOD BISQUE!! It is undeniably the best you will ever have!! read more

This place is amazing! We went during the week in the evening and it was busy but we were immediately sat on the covered patio. We had two kids and needed two high chairs. One of the straps were broken but they quickly found another high chair to replace it. Tony was our waiter and he was great. Very quick and friendly. The food was good as always. My wife loved the orange crush and I had a few local beers that were delicious. Waterman's is a must go when you're visiting VA beach! read more

Everything was perfect! One recommendation is putting the sides on the menu! The server Sierra was absolutely perfect! I love shrimp and hush puppies! read more

Visiting Virginia from New Jersey, what a catch. This place had it all. From the nice beach vibes, to the food and the amazing service. Right on the boardwalk we just shared a bunch of appetizers (family of 4) and everything came out quick and delicious. Our server was always on point and never let us run dry on drinks or anything else. Amazing experience on a late lunch by the beach. Recommend it 100% read more

Waterman's Surfside Grille - Crab dip, fried calamari, stuffed fries, salad, boiled shrimp & bacon wrapped scallops - Bars Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

We sat at the bar for dinner. Chris was our bartender. He did an excellent job, He greeted us and made sure we had everything we needed. The three bartenders worked well together and kept our drinks full. Drinks: We both had the coconut lime crush. They were delicious a perfect summer time drink. Food: I had the Guinness burger and fries. The burger was good but the aioli that comes with it was bland. My wife had the stuffed fish of the day. It was flounder today. It was excellent and so were the vegetables that came with it. The atmosphere was nice. It's right on the beach and the bar area has 6 TVs. I would highly recommend this place especially for their Crush drinks and sleds Food. read more

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