Virginia’s Eastern Shore has no shortage of scenic beauty, and there are few better places to savor it than the region’s al fresco restaurants. From Cape Charles to Chincoteague, read on for some of the best places to dine and drink outdoors.
The Shanty, Cape Charles: Situated right on the harbor in a storybook-sweet beach town, this locally beloved restaurant serves up fresh seafood and bold cocktails. Time your visit around sunset for breathtaking views. ShantySeafood.com
Island House Restaurant and Marina, Wachapreague: Oysters, clams, and other seafood plucked from local waters are on the menu at this rustic spot with a sprawling deck overlooking the marsh and barrier islands. TheIslandHouseRestaurant.com
Mallards at the Wharf, Onancock: Home to musical chef Johnny Mo, this wharf-front eatery at the head of Onancock Creek is renowned for its ultra-fresh crab cakes, sweet potato biscuits with braised pork, and orange crush cocktails. EatAtMallards.com
Mallards at the Wharf is famous for its braised pork on sweet potato biscuit with chipotle aioli. Photo by Mallards at the Wharf
The Village Restaurant, Chincoteague: Fresh and local seafood are the stars at this family-run spot on Eel Creek—from shrimp to flounder to clams and oysters—all served with a side of tranquil water views. VillageRestaurantChincoteague.com
This article originally appeared in the Best of Virginia 2025 issue.
