Bay Local Eatery

Been eyeballing this place everytime we pass by for awhile. Was a little dissapointed. Service was great but I guess it just wasn’t my style of food? For appetizers we got the tater toy nachos. It was pretty much a tater tot salad. I also ordered the crab balls. Those were pretty good after I peeled away the crazy amount of cheese on them. Wanted to taste the crab meat and not cheese. My partner ordered the vegetarian omelette but requested meat. They did have beef on one of the menu items but it wasn’t an option given to him so he opted for sausage. I ordered the special omelet with oysters. I thought the oysters would be inside the omelet but they were simply placed on top with hollandaise sauce. I really gave 2 stars only for the perfectly cooked eggs and service. I pretty much got really bored with my meal and didn’t finish which is rare. I couldn’t even eat my home fries because they were clearly cooked previously then deepfried again. Not that I would be able to tell being a chef/​cook myself. You definitely get a lot for your buck though. I noticed waitresses clearing off tables with plates of dishes with a lot of food still left on them. We definitely needed to go boxes. Nice attempt but it just wasn’t there for me. Looking around it seems like it would be the spot though for women to come drink and chat on a lunch date. I’m a foody though so the food just wasn’t it for me. We liked the ambiance though. Seems like I could have gotten that kind of food at Dennys and paid less. I probably would have enjoyed and finished all my food more at Dennys though for less.

For starters, my husband and I are about to move and we were talking about the one thing we would miss in Virginia Beach and we both said… Bay Local. I have never had such amazing and fresh seafood in my life. The Parmesan tots are to die for and their omlets are nothing short of divine. I love that they are always introducing new food and drink items to the menu. The one downside (which doesn’t make this place any less amazing) is that they close at 3 SO GET THERE EARLY. And I have saved the best for last… their mimosas. OMG! you HAVE to try a sorbet mimosa. Every single time we go, we always get the mimosas. Amazing restaurant! Classic and unforgettable.

My favorite brunch place as a VB local. The service is incredible, kind, and considerate. The crab cakes are delicious and the Parmesan garlic tots are delicious! Lots of drinks to choose from. The atmosphere is relaxed, clean, and beach theme. Great experience.

Bay Local & Simple Eats are my spots on Shore Dr now. So much better than Citrus it doesn’t deserve further mention.
I can count on Bay to leave me totally satiated every time at a resonable price. Had the Avocado BLT this time and love it. Girlfriend had the Salmon BLT and her friends had the Crab cake Bennie and Croissant Brkfst sandwich. Tater tots & house-​made slaw were on point as always.

With operation hours 7am-​3pm, it may be difficult to stop in during a work day. Fortunately enough, they’re open on weekends (with the same hours).
It looks like a nice, cozy place to have brunch with friends on the weekend.
While visiting Virginia Beach, I decided to stop by for breakfast with my girlfriend. Everything on the menu looked delicious that it took us some time to decide what to order. Eventually, I opted for the Chicken & Waffles with sunny side up eggs and tator tots, while my girlfriend ordered the Big Al with sunny side up eggs and home fries.
We got there around 9 and it wasn’t too busy at that point. Our food came out fairly quick.
What looked to be delicious food turned out to be pretty simple. While the chicken was delicious and savory, the waffle was pretty dry, bland, and even a bit cold. Not the best Chicken & Waffles I’ve ever had, but definitely not the worst. The tator tots were pretty good as well, but still, not the best.
I got to try some of the Big Al and home fries, and for whatever reason, the biscuit in the Big Al was almost as solid as a rock, to the point where my girlfriend couldn’t eat half of it. The Big Al was definitely not as delicious as it looked. The home fries were cold and not good.
All in all, it wasn’t a terrible experience at all. I don’t, however, think I’d make my way back and try out other menu items.

Holy mother of goodness. Came in today for lunch. It was packed! Lots of Mom’s in workout gear drinking mimosas. Drinks looked awesome — wish I could have enjoyed one but alas it was a work day for me. Service was great. Our entrees — Bay Local Benedict and the seafood omelet (I can’t remember the actual name) were fantastic. Loved the interior décor.
The only negative I had was the acoustics. I could barely hear conversation at my table. That was minor and I can’t wait to return!

Super cute décor, I especially love the ceiling. The seating is a little tight, we were awkwardly seated very close to the next table but it wasn’t too bad. I also enjoyed the kick back music choices.
I had the crab cake Bene and it was the perfect size, great price, and delicious. I would definitely order this again. I also ordered some old bay wings to take home to my husband which he really enjoyed. He is quite particular about his wings! Will def be back :)

When I tell you my breakfast this AM was good !!! This was my second time here and they did it again. I had the light tower? An omelette loaded with fresh shrimp and lump crab meat topped with a hollandaise sauce. Delicious. My friend had the Big Al and said it was good as well. Both came with the parmesan tots which were hot and fresh. I will definitely be back. And our waiter Wes so welcoming and friendly. He spoke very highly about the owner and how this business supports the community which is why he works so hard for him. Great young man that Wes.

Back up to 5 stars because my eggs were poached perfectly!!!
We came for an early brunch, since it is always busy at our usual brunch time so I said let’s wake up early and get some food! We came here around 830 and there were plenty of open tables and we sat at the bar since we’ve grown used to it. Ordered some mimosas which were great.
I had the Bay Local bennie, and my boyfriend got the Big Al. It was soooo good. I could eat that all day every day. We also got a couple more bloody marys and a breakfast shot.
There needs to be a Bay Local closer to town center!

Tried my favorite breakfast here for the first time. all my buddies and there wives kept telling me to give it a spin so i did.
i sat at the bar and the young lady there took great care of me.
perfect coffee like i like it — english muffins — it was a good breakfast.
the inside with all the fishing pictures — and the sweat shirts even had one of the fishing boats i owned once on the back — nice… heading back soon.

My friend and I were actually looking for a particular place for breakfast today. After giving up we stumbled on this place. The name suggests they only offer lunch and dinner fare but they do serve breakfast.
I like the atmosphere of the restaurant. A modern beachy feel is very nice. The restroom was very clean and inviting. Our waitress was fun and perky. She knew what my friend was going to say, how awesome is that.
I ordered the bay local bennies. I got their parmesan tater tots as my choice with it. My friend got the light tower and the french toast on the side. It all looked so good when it came out.
The food came out nice and hot off the grill. I loved the flavors of the benedict. The creamy spinach they put on the muffin had a nice balance of flavor. The yolk off the egg was nice and runny which is a good thing cause you always want that in eggs benedict. The hollandaise was nice and smooth, not velvety but still really good. The french toast was good. The only note is i’m not sure the bread they use for the french toast is a perfect fit for it. Still tasty though, so i’m not going to fault it ob that.
They have other things on the menu I want to try. I will most likely come back.

I really thoroughly enjoyed this place. They have a great menu, with diverse range of items and creative combinations. I had the rum french toast and I loved it. Everyone I was with thoroughly enjoyed their food and it was reasonably priced.

I could eat Banging Balls for days! [That’s what SHE said!]
Yes, seriously, I’m sure anyone would. Can’t come here and NOT order this appetizer — «Banging Balls — Crab balls sprinkled with parmesan cheese,
Old Bay, melted mozzarella cheese and bacon crumbles, served
with spicy cajun aioli.»
I love Bay Local because:
1. It’s beautiful inside!!! Can we say SHABBY CHIC heaven?! This place makes me want to go thrifting to buy a bunch of wooden furniture, slab it up with chalk paint, sand it down, and Voila! Ok I digress, but it really is pretty inside. The awesome ceiling, cool lights, décor, and all the pops of my favorite Tiffany Blue color, just superb.
2. The folks working here have been very helpful and nice. This place is always busy, and everyone who has ever helped us, has managed to be nice and efficient, & always giving great recommendations.
3. Most important thing, the FOOD. Delicious! Just delicious! The first time I dined here, my boyfriend and I had the Banging Balls, described above, and these alone are worth returning for. I also had the «Jamaican Dark Rum French Toast — Sliced french bread
soaked in cinnamon, brown sugar, dark rum then grilled
golden brown and served with fresh fruit and choice of
Applewood smoked bacon or smoky sausage link.» I chose bacon of course. It was just a tad tough for my liking, just because I’m used to the traditional «soft» french toast of course. And I know it’s tough because it’s made with French Bread, the only way for it to not be tough is to soak it pretty much forever before cooking. Anyway, it was still delicious! The second time, I totally felt like I won the lottery (haha) when I ordered and received, and bit into my Fried Chicken Bennie — «Lightly breaded pan fried chicken,
topped with Swiss cheese, lightly sautéed spinach and applewood
smoked bacon.» The applewood smoked bacon part was kind of deceiving, because they’re actually just applewood smoked bacon BITS on top of the Bennies. But boy were they just scrumptious! The oozing egg, Hollandaise sauce, melted cheese, tender & juicy chicken mixed altogether in each bite, O M G. YASSSS. hahaha. And I can’t forget the crazy flavorful, crispy on the outside, perf on the inside, Parmesan Tots! Tot (e)s amazing.
Anyway, «I’m a fan» is totally an understatement. I’d come back here again & again — good thing it’s far from me. This place is busy, so expect a wait on the weekends! Grab yourself a couple of Sorbet Mimosas; Happy Brunching!

Finally able to get out and taste a little bit of freedom again. My son (my new boss) is very demanding so anywhere I go is a treat. Bay local eatery was a treat indeed – one I intend on coming back to!
My Best Friend and I ventured in here and were quickly greeted and seated. The waitress we had although busy was very friendly and made several helpful suggestions with the menu. The Jamaican french toast sounded delicious – but maybe next time. This Unilocaler (me) ordered the crab cake bennie. I was a little reserved about ordering it because people LOVE to go cheap when it comes to crabcakes. You know what I’m talking about, more filler than meat. Well this place got it right. More meat, very little filler. The crab cake bennie was delicious and definitely satisfying. As an appetizer which I forgot to mention earlier we ordered the Crazy Asian bay wings. They were ok, nothing to write home about.
I needed a little relaxing and ordered the pomegranate mimosa – you can’t go wrong with that. It did it’s job :). Overall, this seems like a great spot to catch a nice bite to eat. Very casual and it has a great upbeat vibe to it. I’ll be back so long as the boss man allows.

Crab balls are amazing!
The mimosa with sorbet were good too.
The oyster rockefeller benedict was fantastic. Called the bay local!
Definitely will be back!

Glad this was nearby! My group of friends and I were trying to do brunch at Citrus on Saturday, which unfortunately had an hour long wait. A friend looked this place up and noticed it was on the same block as Citrus so we changed plans and dined here before heading to the beach.
The place offers a variety of brunch options and the portions are huge considering how budget friendly the prices are! Avoid the mistake I made, don’t get the fries, you must get the tater tots! I repeat, GET THE TOTS! I tried my friend’s tater tots and they were seasoned so deliciously that I had such regrets for not getting them as a side instead.
Want to make it a boozy brunch? Recommend ordering a sorbet mimosa to go with your meal.
I ordered the Quattro Frommage omelette, nothing special, just a very cheesy omelette. Stomach was not feeling well that day so I ordered something light and simple. I could see that everything else my friends order was delicious, recommend trying out one of their benedicts if you’re dining here! It’s the best bang for your buck, for both quality and quantity.

Saturday brunch usually isn’t as popular as Sunday brunch — that isn’t the case at Bay Local. Knowing this is one of the brunch hot spots, we attempted to reserve a table for two to try and cut down on our wait time. Unfortunately, they don’t take reservations and we were told there would be a 45 minute wait time. When we arrived, the hostess stated that our wait time was only going to be 25 minutes. Elated that our wait time was cut 20 minutes short, we patiently waited while looking over the menu on one of their few benches outside. 40 minutes later, we were finally seated. A little frustrated about the underestimated wait time, we ordered our mimosas and entrees. The fresh squeezed ruby red and cranberry mimosas were good, but nothing to rave about.
I ordered the Light Tower omelet with Parmesan tater tots while my partner ordered the Fried Chicken Bennie. Both our items came out in a timely manner, except for my tater tots. Our waitress stated that the tots would be out right away, but I was definitely halfway done with my omelet before I could grab her attention about them. She quickly brought them to me afterwards and were definitely worth the wait. Definitely one of the best tater tots I’ve had in my day. My omelet was done very well and had fresh shrimp and crab, but was lacking flavor. The bennie on the other hand was out of this world! Tons of flavor and there’s even some spinach on there to compensate that you just drank alcohol and ate fried chicken before noon. Seriously though, order the Fried Chicken Bennie and the tots and you’re set for the rest of the day.
As for the establishment, the staff was extremely friendly and the décor screams Pinterest (in a good way!). Although there were a few irks in the beginning, Bay Local definitely hits the spot for your bourgie brunch days!

Have you ever walked into a place and just immediately know you’re going to love it? If you haven’t, then come to Bay Local Eatery, and you’ll know what I mean.
My good friend and I came here Sunday morning before heading to the beach. I found Bay Local on Unilocal on a Monday. And I have literally been thinking about it and looking forward to going it every day till Sunday. I was lucky enough to find parking right in front of the restaurant. Like other reviewers have said, parking is pretty tight. There is overflow parking at the Mexican Restaurant across the street. We walked into the restaurant and were greeted by the hostess who seated us right away. It was 9 AM in the morning, and the place was already more than half full.
I just have to say, the décor is beautiful. The colors are beautiful, giving this place a great relaxed, yet trendy ambiance. Other tables had smiles on their faces and delicious looking drinks/​food on their table. Everything about this place just made me feel happy. Our waitress was good at what she did and nice. She didn’t linger for too long and was super efficient, which was needed for such a busy morning.
I got a strawberry sorbet mimosa to start off. I liked it, but I couldn’t really taste any strawberry flavor. It was mostly just light sweetness and champagne. There was a scoop of sorbet that just kind of fizzled at the top of the glass. You could get it in a wine glass (a little bit bigger size) or a champagne glass (the smaller size.) You can also jumbo size it and those looked AWESOME. They came in a super large glass with multiple scoops of sorbet and long crazy straws.
I ordered the chicken and waffles with over easy eggs and tots. Food took a little longer than normal to get out but it was well worth the wait. The chicken was cooked perfectly. It was juicy and the outside was crispy with some great spices. The waffle… I like to think of myself as a waffle connoisseur. It was cooked well, light and airy, but still had substance. It was a little plain, could have used some more vanilla, but I still enjoyed it a lot. At other restaurants, if you order chicken and waffles, it doesn’t usually come with a side. But you got eggs as well as potatoes. That’s a pretty good deal in my book.
By 9:15 AM, this place was packed. The waiting area was full of people. One of the things that surprised my friend and I the most was how many younger people as well as families with small kids were there. If you can get that variety of people in a brunch place before 9:30, that’s saying something. It seems more of like a local spot as well. I can’t wait to come back to try more mimosas and that hangover breakfast!

Wow. This place was full packed. I was expecting it was going to be busy due to the weekend holiday. I wanted to try this place so we waited for the table. Upon entering the premises I’ve noticed the eclectic décor and hanging stuff. I kinda like it, I thought its creatively well done. Its looks great and added an impact to the restaurant. The entire place looks amazing. Its neat, clean, and well organized.
For today’s visit, I ordered the Big Al a biscuit stuffed in sausage and bacon topped with gravy served with a sides of two eggs and fries. Thought the entire meal was delicious. The biscuits alone were exquisite, it was seasoned well and perfectly cooked. I didn’t like the gravy much, I thought it was bland and unappetizing.
It was a fantastic visit. I will definitely come back maybe not on the weekend. I didn’t like the super crowded scenario and the freaking loud music. Apart from that, I truly enjoyed the whole experience.

I got a chance to try out this spot after hearing about it from friends. Tucked neatly in a small shopping center across the street from Shorebreak, Bay Local is an eclectic spot which boasts some fantastic food.
I came in on a Monday and was greeted warmly by one of the servers. Given a choice to sit anywhere I picked a spot near the window because the interior seemed dimly lit. Not a bad thing, but I guess since they’re open for only breakfast and lunch they want to use natural lighting.
Kyle was my server during my visit and he was pleasant and cordial. He informed me of their half-​off appetizers which I took advantage of by ordering the loaded hand-​cut bay fries. That app is basically cheese fries which they top with mozzarella, parm and bacon, while they season the fries with Old Bay. The spicy aioli is very good and you can’t go wrong with sour cream. But I barely touched it, not because it wasn’t good but because I wanted to finish the entrée I ordered (I had the app boxed up).
The dish I got was The Hangover and it was plenty of food. It consists of an 8-​oz. New York strip, eggs (served any style — I got them scrambled), a side of fries or parm tots (I got the tots), a pancake and toast (or you can get a biscuit, methinks). It was a lot but I tore through it because I was hungry. It was a fantastic meal and kept me full for most of the day. What made the entrée a total winner is that it also came with an 8-​oz. of Budweiser, which they served inside of a brown paper bag. Fairly creative and a great way to play up the dish’s name.
When I was ready to pay the place began filling up for lunch. I lucked out by beating the rush — thank goodness. Come to think of it, considering where Bay Local is located parking would be an issue. There are maybe 4 or 5 spots directly outside so those will fill up quickly. Shorebreak tows, so just getting here can be a chore. But with its colorful interior, the decent service, the tasty food and the notion that they use only local product makes Bay Local a winner. I look forward to future visits especially if they have half-​off appetizers on Mondays. JV