Hey everyone! Looking for restaurants in Hampton VA? You're in luck! Hampton is a fantastic city with a diverse culinary scene. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, delicious comfort food, or something a little more exotic, you'll find it here. I'm going to walk you through some of the best spots in town, so get ready to discover your next favorite place to eat.

Seafood Sensations

Hampton's location on the Chesapeake Bay means you're never far from some incredibly fresh seafood. Here are a couple of standouts:

The Deadrise

If you're on the hunt for waterfront dining with a laid-back atmosphere, The Deadrise is where it's at. Situated right on the Hampton River, this spot offers stunning views and a menu packed with seafood favorites. Start with the crab dip – it's creamy, flavorful, and served with toasted pita chips that are perfect for scooping. For your main course, you can't go wrong with the Catch of the Day, always prepared fresh and seasoned perfectly. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try the seafood pasta, loaded with shrimp, scallops, and crab in a light, lemon-garlic sauce. Don't forget to pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails; the Deadrise Sunset is a popular choice. What really sets The Deadrise apart is the ambiance. The outdoor seating area is perfect for a sunny afternoon or a warm evening, with live music often playing in the background. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the view, and savor some delicious seafood. Plus, they have a great selection of local craft beers on tap, so you can support local breweries while you dine. Whether you're a local or just visiting, The Deadrise is a must-try for any seafood lover in Hampton. And the best part? The portions are generous, so you definitely get your money's worth. Trust me, you won't leave hungry!

Marker 20

Marker 20 is another Hampton gem known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. This place is a local favorite, and once you try it, you'll understand why. The raw bar is a must-try, featuring oysters, clams, and shrimp, all incredibly fresh. For an entrée, the crab cakes are legendary – they're made with jumbo lump crab meat and have just the right amount of seasoning. If you're not a fan of crab cakes (though I can't imagine why!), the grilled salmon is another excellent choice, cooked to perfection and served with a flavorful glaze. But Marker 20 isn't just about the food; it's also about the experience. The restaurant has a fun, nautical theme, and the staff is always friendly and attentive. They also have a fantastic happy hour, with great deals on drinks and appetizers. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or to kick off a fun night out with friends. And if you're a fan of live music, Marker 20 often hosts local bands, adding to the lively atmosphere. The location is also super convenient, right in the heart of downtown Hampton. So, whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a fun night out, Marker 20 has something for everyone. Just be sure to make a reservation, especially on weekends, as it can get pretty busy. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Comfort Food Classics

Sometimes, you just need a good, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug. Here are a couple of places in Hampton that excel at comfort food:

Fuller's Raw Bar

Don't let the name fool you; Fuller's Raw Bar is more than just a raw bar. While they do have a great selection of oysters and clams, they also serve up some seriously good comfort food. The fried chicken is a standout – crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. Served with mashed potatoes and gravy, it's the ultimate comfort food experience. And if you're in the mood for something else, the burgers are also fantastic, made with fresh ground beef and topped with all your favorite fixings. But what really sets Fuller's apart is the atmosphere. It's a laid-back, unpretentious spot where you can relax and enjoy a good meal. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and you'll often see locals chatting at the bar. It's the kind of place where you feel like you're part of the community. Plus, they have a great selection of beers on tap, including local craft brews. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a place to watch the game, Fuller's is a great choice. And the prices are very reasonable, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Just be sure to check their hours, as they're not open every day. But when they are, it's definitely worth a visit. Trust me, you'll leave feeling full and satisfied!

Venture Kitchen and Bar

Venture Kitchen and Bar is your go-to spot for elevated comfort food with a modern twist. This place takes classic dishes and adds a creative flair that will tantalize your taste buds. Start with the pimento cheese dip, served with house-made crackers – it's creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive. For your main course, the shrimp and grits are a must-try, featuring creamy grits, succulent shrimp, and a spicy andouille sausage gravy. And if you're a fan of mac and cheese, you'll love their version, which is loaded with bacon, cheddar, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. But Venture isn't just about the food; it's also about the atmosphere. The restaurant has a sleek, modern design, with comfortable seating and a lively bar area. They also have a great selection of craft cocktails, so you can sip on something delicious while you dine. And the staff is always friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a special occasion celebration, Venture is a great choice. And the location is super convenient, right in the heart of downtown Hampton. Just be sure to make a reservation, especially on weekends, as it can get pretty busy. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

International Flavors

If you're craving something a little more exotic, Hampton has plenty of options to satisfy your wanderlust:

Mango Mangeaux

Mango Mangeaux brings a taste of New Orleans to Hampton with its vibrant atmosphere and delicious Creole cuisine. This place is a true gem, offering a unique dining experience that you won't find anywhere else. Start with the beignets, light and fluffy pastries dusted with powdered sugar – they're the perfect way to kick off your meal. For your main course, the jambalaya is a must-try, featuring rice, chicken, sausage, and shrimp in a flavorful Creole sauce. And if you're a fan of seafood, the crawfish étouffée is another excellent choice, rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. But Mango Mangeaux isn't just about the food; it's also about the experience. The restaurant has a lively, festive atmosphere, with colorful décor and upbeat music. They also have a great selection of cocktails, including classic New Orleans favorites like the Hurricane and the Sazerac. And the staff is always friendly and welcoming, making you feel like you've been transported to the French Quarter. Whether you're looking for a fun night out, a special occasion celebration, or just a taste of New Orleans, Mango Mangeaux is a great choice. Just be sure to make a reservation, especially on weekends, as it can get pretty busy. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Pho 79

For a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, head to Pho 79. This unassuming spot serves up some of the best pho in town, along with a variety of other Vietnamese specialties. The pho is the star of the show, a flavorful noodle soup with your choice of beef, chicken, or shrimp. The broth is rich and aromatic, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. And if you're in the mood for something else, the spring rolls are also fantastic, filled with fresh vegetables and served with a peanut dipping sauce. But Pho 79 isn't just about the food; it's also about the value. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for a casual lunch or dinner. And the portions are generous, so you definitely get your money's worth. The atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, but the food is the real star. The staff is friendly and efficient, and they're always happy to help you choose from the menu. Whether you're a pho aficionado or just looking to try something new, Pho 79 is a great choice. Just be sure to bring cash, as they don't accept credit cards. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – some of the best restaurants near me in Hampton, VA. From fresh seafood to comforting classics to exotic international flavors, Hampton has something to satisfy every craving. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the local culinary scene. Happy eating, guys!