Authenticity Awaits at Rockafeller’s Restaurant: Where the Visitors Go and the Locals Stay
Owner BJ Baumann shares the importance of community and culinary excellence at seasoned Oceanfront eatery
Diners are in for a truly authentic experience at Rockafeller’s Restaurant, where they are dining on the water in the heart of the marina district at Rudee Inlet with stellar views and get to witness the hustle of local fishermen. The restaurant’s location is a prime spot to catch the boats docking and delivering delectables just right below the restaurant.
Family-owned and -operated, Rockafeller’s welcomes locals and visitors alike to an unforgettable waterside culinary experience just steps away from the Virginia Beach resort area. Unparalleled views of Rudee Inlet can be enjoyed no matter where you’re sitting and the cuisine delights the palate with fresh catches, award-winning oysters, antibiotic-free salmon renowned by Rockafeller’s diners as the “best salmon in the world,” and classic bites like She-Crab Soup, Crab Cakes and of course, Oysters Rockafeller.
Operations began in 1989 when her late husband, Frank Baumann, opened the doors to what would ultimately become a Virginia Beach icon. Steering the ship for over two decades now, Baumann and her staff have established a loyal customer base and designed a menu worthy of numerous awards and recognitions by culinary experts, including the National Restaurant Association Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year and the Best Oyster Award by Virginia Living for multiple years in a row. They also take great pride in the relationship they share in the community and the work they accomplish within the ecosystem.
“We were one of the first fully certified Green restaurants in the state [and] one of the first two [businesses] to start the Oyster Recycling Program with Lynnhaven River Now. We’ve been doing that for [over] 25 years,” says Baumann. Rockafeller’s also participates in the Virginia Aquarium’s Sensible Seafood Program and partners with a host of local purveyors to obtain regionally sourced seafood, local produce, craft beer and more.
The Rockafeller’s team continues to cater to the tastebuds of guests by experimenting with trending dishes to complement the restaurant’s selection of She-Crab Soup, Crab Cakes, Oysters Rockafeller and other classic bites.
With such an emphasis on community and culinary excellence, Rockafeller’s Restaurant is a force to be reckoned with that you don’t want to miss out on during your stay.
“You’re going to find absolutely great views, absolutely great customer service and absolutely great food,” reminds Baumann. So cut away from the resort area for an evening of delectable plates, handcrafted libations and a glimpse of the local life at Rockafeller’s Restaurant.
Wanna Go?
308 Mediterranean Ave, On Rudee Inlet.
Virginia Beach
757-422-5654
rockafellers.com
