Virginia Beach is a giant sandbox for dogs to play in. So, whether you’re joining the large tourist crowds who arrive for beach season, or a local taking advantage of the Atlantic Ocean in your backyard, it’s a place where dogs have plenty of freedom to roam.

Plan a beach day with your pet at Virginia Beach by visiting the off-leash dog beach and strolling down the Virginia Beach boardwalk. There are many pet-friendly restaurants to grab something to eat—just make sure to wait 20 minutes before splashing back into the water!

204 Pizza

Although the beach-combing crowds at Virginia Beach thin out after the summer season, 204 Pizza is a year-round pizza spot you can always count on—especially since it’s open as late as 2 AM! So, for the pets without a bedtime and the pet parents with late-night pizza cravings, head down 22nd street till you’re nearly at the oceanfront, and the scent of freshly-baked slices will halt you before reaching the water.

Established in 2010, 204 Pizza is a family-owned shop that welcomes the humans and pets of the community. The neon “hot pizza” sign is the only sign you need to grab a seat on the covered patio and enjoy its NY-style pizza served by the slice. This cozy space has picnic-style tables and is filled with the aroma of specialty pizzas hot out of the oven.

One bite, and you’ll fall in love with the crispy, thin crust loaded with your favorite toppings. Pepperoni and Margherita are popular slices, although it has cheese for those with simple tastes and deluxe pizza for those who want to load up on the flavor.

If one (or two) slices aren’t enough to satisfy your cravings, don’t be shy about pigging out on an entire pie.

Amenities and More: Vegan Options, Accepts Credit Cards, Wheelchair Accessible

Address: 204 22nd St., Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Smartmouth Brewing Company

They say, “closed mouths don’t get fed.” But those who choose Smartmouth Brewing Company are wise beyond their years. Just a short walk from Neptune’s Park, it’s an excellent stop after snapping photos of your pet in front of the 34-foot-tall King Neptune statue.

Smartmouth Brewing Company is a former post office building now delivering amazing food and beer flavors. It features a large chalkboard filled with year-round brews or limited runs you’re wise to get your hands on before it runs out. Your servers will gladly share the best recommendation to pair with its popular menu items ranging from crab cakes to po’boys to wood-fired pizza.

Pets are allowed on the restaurant’s outdoor patio. Let your food digest while playing a few table games, but watch your dog’s head from the toppling Jenga blocks falling to the ground. The restaurant also hosts pet-friendly movie nights in its large parking lot, complete with a large projection screen and free popcorn.

Amenities and More: Takes Reservations, Accepts Apple Pay, Accepts Credit Cards, Happy Hour Specials, Wheelchair Accessible, Offers Military Discounts

Address: 313 32nd St., Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Harvest

Your dog will ‘roof, roof’ for the rooftop patio at Harvest. Enjoy views stretching to the Atlantic Ocean while dining around the clock with your pet. So, whether you come for an early breakfast before exploring the adjacent ViBe district or a post-beach dinner, there’s something on the menu for everyone.

Harvest is a featured stop for pet owners trekking the Coastal Virginia Coffee Trail. But save the lattes for the cooler seasons and opt for a refreshing smoothie during the summer sun. It creates a fun atmosphere for those dining in with music played over the speakers.

Scan the QR code at Harvest to scroll through all your favorite traditional American eats and dishes inspired by Virginia Beach. It has signature sandwiches like the Boardwalk, King Neptune, and Beach Burrito sandwich. Also, try unique fusion dishes like the Hawaiian Crunchy French Toast with a mimosa flight when brunching with your pet.

Amenities and More: Women-Owned, Wheelchair Accessible, Many Vegetarian Options, Accepts Credit Cards

Address: 1718 Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Aloha Snacks

Aloha Snacks

Let’s be honest—Virginia Beach isn’t quite Hawaii, but eating at Aloha Snacks is as close as you’ll get. This pet-friendly restaurant excels at bringing a genuine Hawaiian vibe to Virginia. Hawaii has never felt closer, from the fresh tropical tastes of its popular poke bowls to the Hawaiian-inspired decor.

Since opening in 2017, Aloha Snacks has achieved the spotlight with its chef featured on the Food Network. There’s always something new to try, with the menu updated every season. Get yourself a star-studded meal prepared by these same hands since each bowl is made-to-order, along with other Hawaiian and Asian cuisines. Mix up your poke bowl with colorful ingredients ranging from soy-cured tuna for seafood tastes or pile on the greens with the Farmer’s bowl. Other popular dishes include sushi, salad, and fusion burgers.

Aloha Snacks has an outdoor patio that allows pets. Their paws will stay warm with the Tiki-torch-style heat lamps or escape the heat beneath the oversized umbrellas. It’s a casual space, so you’ll be ok to keep on your beach flip-flops!

Amenities and More: Offers Military Discount, Accepts Android Pay, Vegan Options, Happy Hour Specials

Address: 501 Laskin Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Warriors Taphouse

Break away from the tourist-filled restaurants lining the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and head south to a place where even your pet can feel more comfortable. Warriors Taphouse was established to support wartime veterans. It even puts its money where its mouth is by dedicating a portion of its revenue to support its cause.

Warriors Taphouse is a military-themed restaurant with walls lined with wartime memorabilia and the American flag waving proudly outside. Recruit your pet to join you for a meal on the dog-friendly patio and enjoy its range of food made from locally-sourced ingredients.

Browse the menu like an army general selecting the optimal dish to combat your hunger. Bite-sized bits from the chili steak salad lead off the battle as an appetizer, but the fight is far from over. Warriors Taphouse sends in the big guns with its signature Warrior craft burger before dropping crispy house fries in your belly. Wash away the battlefield with your choice of 50 craft beers on tap, and don’t be too proud to call in foreign support by trying one of its 20 imported beers.

Amenities and More: Takes Reservations, Accepts Credit Cards, Vegan Options, Live Music, Wheelchair Accessible, Offers Military Discounts

Address: 1630 General Booth Blvd Ste 100, Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Barrel 17

Barrel 17

It’s burger night, and you’re on pet duty for the day. Where do you go? Barrel 17! Its award-winning burgers are the best in town. So, stop by this casual pet-friendly restaurant and sink your canine teeth into one of its specialty burgers.

Barrel 17 is in the heart of the ViBe Creative District, and the area’s creativity spills over into the restaurant. From the giant ‘wave’ mural greeting you when pulling into the parking lot to the artisan-style burgers, it’s an excellent prelude to exploring more of the colorful district once you’ve finished eating.

There’s a reason why Barrel 17 is a favorite for local pet owners. Meet the neighborhood dogs on the outdoor patio and let the scent of a delicious burger make their tongue hang out of their mouth. From your first bite to the last, your mouth will be filled with sensational flavors. Its specialty burger favorites include the Jammin Goat Burger, Whiskey Burger, or the Shroom burger.

Amenities and More: Takes Reservations, Vegan Options, Full Bar, Happy Hour Specials, Wheelchair Accessible, Waiter Service

Address: 1706 Mediterranean Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Citrus

Citrus

Citrus takes the crown for best brunch in Virginia Beach, a title it’s claimed for the past decade. It’s open from 7 AM – 3 PM and always buzzing during peak brunch hours, with pets joining in the patio fun.

The large patio at Citrus is pet-friendly and has plenty of space for larger groups. It has comfy lounge couches for snapping brunch pictures with your pet, then relocate to the umbrella-shaded tables when it’s time to eat.

The Citrus brunch menu pairs contemporary breakfast with tasty mimosas for a well-balanced meal. Experiment with its unique brunch creations like the soft shell crab Benedict, served in the shape of a crab; bite-sized slices of mango almond croissant French toast full of exciting flavors and textures in each bite; or a seafood omelet reminding you that the ocean is just a short distance away.

At Citrus, pets don’t just sit around waiting for you to finish eating. Instead, it provides a tray piled with pet food so your dog won’t have to bug you for a bite.

Amenities and More: Many Vegetarian Options, Waiter Service, Full Bar, Accepts Android Pay, Accepts Credit Cards, Happy Hour Specials

Address: 357 N Great Neck Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Taste of Brazil

The local 2016 International Food Festival put the Taste of Brazil on the map for many pet owners who were excited to see the food truck establish its temporary storefront location just a couple of years later. With a Brazilian food-loving customer base, it’s always looking forward to converting the next fans.

The Taste of Brazil creates an authentic Brazilian dining experience right in Virginia Beach. It’s a mobile location providing pet-friendly outdoor seating. Small tables are set beneath a banner of hanging Brazilian flags reminiscent of street-side dining in São Paulo. Close your eyes when you start eating, and you’ll feel like you’re actually there. The food truck can be found at many local events and festivals.

Brazilian street food favorites like crispy empanadas and pad de queijo are great for bite-sized eats. For more hearty meals, it has options like the steak plate, Prato de frango, and feijoada, Or go with something more familiar like the Brazilian burger and chicken Philly.

If you haven’t stuffed yourself too much, the flan and churro desserts are a must-try.

Amenities and More: Accepts Credit Cards

Address: Virginia Beach

The Shack on 8th

You can always find a fun atmosphere to hang out and eat with your pet at The Shack. This restaurant has one of the best dog-friendly dining spaces, with an entire patio dedicated to dining and entertainment. It’s an oasis nestled perfectly between Lake Holly and the Atlantic Ocean that brings a backyard cookout to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

Once your paws hit the grassy turf, the party begins. Play jumbo yard games like corn hole and shuffleboard while enjoying sets by live DJs hosted on select days. During the day, whirling fans cool you down, while the cozy fire pit warms you up in the evening. It stays open as late as 2 AM, so stay energized with great food options.

The Shack serves a range of food types, so there’s something for everyone—seafood, tacos, sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, etc. In addition, it’s known for its signature Crush drinks made with unique flavors like coconut lime, orange, and blueberry.

Amenities and More: Waiter Service, Happy Hour Specials, Many Vegetarian Options, Heated Outdoor Seating

Address: 712 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Calypso Bar & Grill

You can spot the tops of the blue awnings of the Calypso Bar & Grill right from the Virginia Beach boardwalk. With the largest covered patio on the oceanfront, it’s a place for you and your pet to feel like one of the locals—even if you’re just visiting.

Calypso Bar & Grill is a year-round restaurant with every seat in the house offering ocean views. The outdoor patio has the best seats where your pet is welcome and also gives you a front-row seat to the live music played daily during the peak beach season. Grab a drink and vibe to the tunes while you wait to dig into your meal.

Enjoy seafood and contemporary American dishes found on the menu. Calypso Bar & Grill is famous for its sweet heat wings ordered by-the-wing, so get as many as your stomach can handle! Seafood favorites include the creamy She Crab soup, hiding chunks of fresh crab meat, or fish tacos loaded up with fresh ingredients.

Amenities and More: Takes Reservations, Vegan Options, Live Music, Happy Hour Specials, Wheelchair Accessible, Waiter Service

Address: 1101 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451