Drayage Brokersin Norfolk, VA

Barbecue: the soul of the culinary South, where the roasting and smoking of meat is a slow and smooth process. Finger-lickin’ fact: Did you know Norfolk is home to some downright delicious barbecue? This list highlights Norfolk’s top barbecue joints where you can go for tender ribs, pulled pork, brisket and all the side dishes you adore. Let’s dig in.

Main image: Redwood Smoke Shack

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Southern wraparound porches will catch your eye when you drive by Bar-Q’s location nestled inside Bold Mariner Brewing Company. Then, your attention will quickly divert to the oversized meat smoker that cooks up some of the tastiest barbecue around. Bar-Q has an à la carte menu, but we highly suggest filling up a platter with their moist brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, spicy jalapeño and cheddar links, classic cornbread and more! Pitmaster Jayme Campbell is a barbecue pro who embraces his creative side on the regular.

Get your favorite barbecue offerings like pulled pork, chicken, brisket and pork ribs, plus some unexpected items like pulled pork nachos, cornbread drizzled with honey and irresistible sliders. Take advantage of their weekly specials (Military Mondays and Taco Tuesdays, for instance) and their extra meaty combos.

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Doumar’s is well known in Norfolk for creating the world’s first waffle cone. They still serve cones made from the original machine, along with a helping of nostalgia via their drive-up diner atmosphere complete with friendly car service. Their secret weapon, however, might just be their pork barbecue sandwiches. Created classically since 1904, these juicy creations are piled high and minced with combinations of slaw, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo. Extra hungry? Go for the double meat. Watch them in City With Bite!

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Located inside a newly restored, 100-year-old building, part warehouse and part single-family home is The Fishin’ Pig restaurant. Original to Farmville, VA, The Fishin’ Pig is a creative collaboration of Memphis-style barbecue (we recommend the brisket) and Southern seafood dishes, like their catfish tacos! What you can expect from the barbecue side of the menu is delicious brisket that tenderly falls apart, ribs that are worth the messy hands and delicious pulled pork and chicken options that are best when topped with extra barbecue sauce, of which they have multiple options to choose from at the table.

Gogi Guys Korean BBQ offers a fresh, creative and respectful interpretation of Korean cuisine. Enjoy the wide variety of fresh meat grilled right at your table. Their all-you-can-eat menu features favorites like beef and pork bulgogi, brisket, ribeye, pork belly, soy garlic pork chop and chicken, garlic shrimp, squid and more.

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This backyard hangout on North Colley is known for their fun and games, including foosball, giant Connect 4, ping pong and more. One thing they don’t play around with, however, is their barbecue, which is smoked right in the backyard. Choose from Hank’s pulled pork, smoked chicken or vegan jackfruit for a tasty BBQ plate or sandwich. Enjoy these same barbecue options sprinkled atop a plate of Totchos, crispy, air-fried tots with Hank’s BBQ sauce, beer cheese, pickled jalapeños and onions. Feeding the whole family? Opt for a BBQ or Brisket Family Pack to enjoy a quart of smoked pulled pork or brisket with all the fixings from the comfort of your own backyard.

The bubblegum pink storefront at Megallons is both welcoming and fitting, as the cozy cafe is loaded with pigs! Here you’ll find delicious barbecue and all the homemade sauces and fixings to pair. Husband and wife restaurateurs Don and Brenda use persimmon wood to smoke the meats to perfection. Hushpuppy fan? It’s been said that Megallons has the best hushpuppies in town. Eat in or take out! Once you try Megallons, you’ll have a new favorite local go-to.

Mojo Bones is where the barbecue is sticky, the pulled pork is juicy, and the sweet tea is extra sweet! Mojo serves up all your barbecue favorites such as slow-smoked brisket and tender, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs. To increase the mojo, they offer more than 40 craft and domestic beers to pair with your favorite barbecue options.

You’ll feel right at home at My Mama’s Kitchen where Owner and Chef Motier “Moe” Stevenson proudly shares his family’s Southern comfort recipes with excited patrons at his East Beach restaurant. The brisket melts in your mouth, the cornbread is fluffy, the sauce is tangy, and the mac and cheese is oh so creamy. Their best barbecue options include baby back ribs, BBQ Sammich and pulled pork or beef brisket, each offered in the form of a sandwich or dinner. Watch them in City With Bite!

Bob Roberts, pitmaster and owner of Redwood Smoke Shack, is a creative thinker who turned his part-time hobby into a full-time profession. Redwood Smoke Shack is a Texas-inspired barbecue joint located in the historic Ghent neighborhood serving up delicious dishes packed with flavor! Customers can become involved in the process by selecting and assembling barbecue meats and sides to make it just the way you like it. Featuring beef brisket, pulled pork and ribs, Redwood is indeed a barbecue lover’s dream. Check out their daily specials for a real treat.

Sam’s is a hidden gem serving up killer subs, like the fan favorite: Black & Blue featuring slow roasted brisket, blackened seasoning, blue cheese, onions, mushrooms, and mayo. Other popular options are The Everything Homemade BBQ, signature brisket slow cooked in Texas-style barbecue sauce and topped with coleslaw, and Sam’s Famous Brisket Chili served with cheese, onions and sour cream. Watch them on City With Bite!

With an abundance of outdoor activities, Norfolk is the perfect destination to enjoy some sunshine. From exploring our gardens to setting sail along the Chesapeake Bay, there is a variety for you to explore. You won’t want to miss these unique ways to get outside!

Gardens

Norfolk is home to plenty of lush green spaces, including the largest botanical garden in Virginia. No matter what time of year you’re visiting, there’s a beautiful assortment of greenery to peruse at these locally loved gardens.

The Hermitage Museum and Gardens offers visitors a dose of history, art and horticulture all in one spot. With the Hermitage sitting right on the Lafayette River, it’s a perfect backdrop for a day spent outdoors! During the warmer months, be sure to check out their Sunsets on the River concert series for an evening of outdoor entertainment including local music, food trucks, art, local craft beer and wine. Best of all, they allow your well-behaved dog to join in on the fun!

The beautiful Norfolk Botanical Garden has over 60 themed gardens on the property, and there is always something to explore. Most blooms can be spotted during the spring and summer months, but make sure to check out their year-round gardens too. The WOW Children’s Garden features world-themed splash fountains, plus a nature walk through Plant Safari habitat gardens.

Trails

Taking the road less traveled is certainly an option. But when there’s well-established trails featuring historic points of interest, restaurants, breweries and wildlife nearby, we say it’s okay to stick to the path. Explore these trails as you get to know more about Norfolk’s past and present!

This self-guided tour marks 400 years of Norfolk and American history. The Cannonball Trail winds along the shoreline of the Elizabeth River and through the districts of Downtown Norfolk. Pay attention to the historic sites noted on this tour for bonus history lessons on this walking trail adventure!

The Elizabeth River Trail (ERT) is a 10.5-mile biking and pedestrian urban trail that will satisfy the highly active. No bike? No problem. Pedego Electric Bikes are available to rent Downtown, so get ready to cruise along as you enjoy some fantastic scenery.

On the Water

Did you know that Norfolk has 144 miles of shoreline? We’re home to the Chesapeake Bay, plus the Elizabeth and Lafayette Rivers, which equals no shortage of water activities, whether you feel like being active, exploring via boat or simply relaxing on the sand.

Did you know that Norfolk has its very own sandy beach? The areas of Ocean View and East Beach are your gateway to beach days, sandcastles, water activities, seafood and gorgeous sunsets. These beaches are perfectly situated on the Chesapeake Bay where warm waters and gentler waves make it ideal for families. Here are ideas for things to do in Ocean View, Norfolk.

There’s arguably no better way to reconnect with nature than by paddling out on a kayak tour to explore the gentle rivers and quiet coves which some of Norfolk’s most beautiful wildlife calls home. Rent a vessel through Norfolk Kayak Tours, embark on a guided journey at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, or BYOK (bring your own kayak) to paddle off from a public launch.

Bordered almost entirely by water and home to the longest fishing pier in North America, Norfolk is geographically positioned for the ultimate fishing trip. No matter what your choice of fresh catch may be, you’re sure to find it in the nearby Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean or Elizabeth River. Norfolk’s mild climate and wide variety of aquatic life have made the region’s waterways one of the top fishing destinations in the world. Thousands of visitors flock to the area’s shores each year in search of the perfect fishing trip.

With the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay running along its west and north borders, Norfolk is the ideal home for sailing. Still learning? Check out Sail Nauticus and its informative boating excursions. Sign up for a weekend course emphasizing on-the-water instruction and earn a U.S. Sailing Basic Keelboat certification.

Tours on Water

Sometimes it’s nice just to sit back, relax and let someone else be your guide for the day. Here are some tours you can sign up for if you’re looking to learn more about Norfolk’s history, see the city line from a new point of view or perhaps indulge in a scrumptious buffet, cocktails and dancing.

Norfolk’s own tall sailing ship, the American Rover is a three-masted topsail schooner with “tanbark” sails. They offer two-hour narrated harbor tours and sunset cruises April through October embarking from Waterside Marina on the Downtown Norfolk waterfront. Once on board, guests can choose to hoist a sail with the crew, take a turn at the helm or just sit back and enjoy the scenic view. The sunset cruise also features live, acoustical entertainment.

See incredible views of the Norfolk harbor and the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet aboard City Cruises Norfolk. Enjoy delicious new menus and specialty drinks. Then, dance to DJ entertainment or relax on the new rooftop lounge. It all adds up to the perfect Norfolk experience. Cruising year-round from downtown Norfolk, Spirit offers lunch, brunch, dinner, cocktail, moonlit cruises and more.

Experience the most popular way to see the world’s largest naval base and the Port of Virginia. Two-hour cruises depart daily from Nauticus, home of the Battleship Wisconsin, in Downtown Norfolk. Cruise past the vessels that ensure our freedom—destroyers, cruisers, submarines, aircraft carriers and more. A fascinating fact and fun-filled narration is provided.

Tours on Land

There’s plenty to see, do and learn off the water as well! Take a self-guided tour of Norfolk’s incredible public art murals, or join a guided tour to learn more about Norfolk’s history, art, architecture and more!

Experience Norfolk in a whole new light with guided tours from Norfolk Tour Company. Explore Norfolk’s most haunted houses and theatres or enjoy the colors of the murals in the NEON District. Walk the city and learn more about its unique history with a tour through Historic Freemason or the “Underground River: Black History Tour on the ERT.”

With self-guided tours aplenty and even guided tours focused on Norfolk’s NEON District, our city’s burgeoning arts scene provides a platform for a multitude of artists to create public murals on local businesses showcasing Norfolk. Any space, whether on a building wall, a house, a shed or even the sidewalk, can be transformed into a stunning display by local artists whose love for the city is obvious in every scene.

Looking for the perfect Dad date or outing this Father’s Day? We’ve rounded up the best things to do with Dad in Norfolk. Whether you celebrate Dad on Father’s Day or every day, create a lasting memory with him in Norfolk this year.

Hop aboard the Victory Rover for a two-hour narrated harbor cruise where guests experience the sights and sounds of one of the world’s busiest seaports, including the world’s largest naval base. See destroyers, guided missile cruisers, submarines, aircraft carriers and more.

Dad deserves his own boat for Father’s Day, but this is the next best thing. Electrified Marina offers a unique and exciting way to tour Norfolk through battery operated vessels. These allow passengers to experience time on the water in a silent, luxurious and environmentally friendly boat that renters can drive themselves. Electrified Marina even has Father’s Day discounts available, so rent now to reserve Dad a spot in the captain’s seat!

Norfolk’s Ocean View Golf Course is a great way to kick it with Dad. Swing for all 18 holes or just the simple nine on their hybrid Bermuda greens and plush, oak-lined fairways. Once you’re done, treat Dad to some of the city’s best barbeque at Bar-Q, located inside Bold Mariner Brewing Company. Bar-Q has an à la carte menu, but we highly suggest filling up a platter with their tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, and spicy (but not too spicy) jalapeño and cheddar links. Because Bar-Q lives within Bold Mariner, it’s only appropriate to pair the fresh smoked ribs with a Frogman Lager.

Spend the afternoon casting your line on the Ocean View Fishing Pier, the longest free-standing pier in North America. Once you’ve caught enough fish and worked up an appetite, head on over to My Mama’s Kitchen for their mouth-watering Drip Sandwich: fried chicken dipped in their secret drip sauce, topped with house coleslaw, pickles and remoulade on a soft brioche bun. Round out your day for Dad with a refreshing brew from coastal-themed COVA Brewing Company, just down the street.

Explore the Lafayette River by kayak! Norfolk Kayak Rentals, located along Colley Avenue, offers single and tandem kayaks for rent. Paddle along the river and enjoy the waterways of Norfolk. The inlets are packed with sites of stunning architectural homes, majestic birds and magnificent sunsets only obtainable via waterway. Looking for a bite and a brew afterward? Head to Elation Brewery for beer and a wood-fired pizza. The Bakehouse at Elation is housed within the brewery and turns out freshly baked, wood-fired flatbread pizzas.

Dad works hard all year long, so why not give him a chance to relax, soak up the sun and take a little dip in the Chesapeake Bay? The beaches of Ocean View provide calm waters suitable for families with young kids. Plus, there’s plenty of eats, drinks and things to do nearby. See how to spend a day in Ocean View and East Beach.

Break out your bikes, or rent an electric Pedego bike and explore the Elizabeth River Trail, Norfolk’s 10.5-mile-long walk and bikeable pathway that takes you through multiple neighborhoods with waterfront views. Starting out in our thriving Downtown, the trail winds you through a few historic neighborhoods and campuses and ends in the beautiful neighborhood of Lochhaven. The ERT is dotted with breweries Dad will love, like Benchtop and Smartmouth, plus delicious restaurants along the way like Torch, the Birch and Grandiflora. If you’re new to the city, it’s a great look in a day in the life of a Norfolkian.

There is nothing quite as classic as enjoying a hot dog with Dad at a baseball game. Norfolk is home to the Norfolk Tides, a minor league baseball team in the Triple-A International League. As an affiliate team of the Baltimore Orioles, the Norfolk Tides play at Harbor Park on the Elizabeth River in Downtown Norfolk. Throw on your baseball cap and cheer on the Tides this Father’s Day. This year’s Father’s Day features a Pre-Game Catch on the Field. See their full schedule.

Father’s Day Events in Norfolk

June 16–17Nauticus

We’re celebrating Father’s Day with the ultimate weekend line up starting with the Grand Opening of our brand new exhibit, Aquaticus!

Nauticus is celebrating Father’s Day with the ultimate weekend lineup, starting with the grand opening of their brand new exhibit, Aquaticus! Join the fun for $5 tickets all weekend long and explore the depths of the ocean with your imagination as you touch barnacles, explore an underwater cave, and more! Climb aboard a working vessel to take on the role of research lab assistant and discover interesting and surprising details about the waters below.

June 17–18Battleship Wisconsin

Step on the Battleship Wisconsin for a special Battlechip & Sip. For just $3 a ball or $27.50 for 10 balls, you will be able to hit a golf ball off of the fantail! All golf balls are biodegradable.

June 18Hanks’ Filling Station

Make Father’s Day special with dear ole dad. Treat him to Hank’s Bacon & Rib Fest with his favorite smoked meats and tasty bourbons. Each admission ticket will include entry into the tasting event, three tastings (ribs or bacon) and live music. Add-on tastings are available for purchase. All kids 10 and under can eat free (hot dog) with a parent’s paid admission. Hank’s full menu will also be available for counter ordering.

Book a Father’s Day Signature Brunch Cruise or Father’s Day Signature Dinner Cruise aboard the Spirit or a Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Elite! Create memories with your family as you dine and dance on the Elizabeth River with magnificent skyline views for a casual afternoon out with the whole family. Norfolk’s spectacular views are even more impressive from the water while you enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet. You’ll marvel at famed city landmarks, such as ships and submarines, from our cozy, climate-controlled interior, and open-air roof decks. We keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ. Join us for a memorable, one-of-a-kind Father’s Day celebration.

Relax with Dad as you sail the smooth waters of the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor while enjoying music from the ship’s musician. Enjoy a complimentary Three Sheets to the Wind Ale and Charcuterie Snack Box while under sail! It’s an unforgettable way to celebrate Father’s Day.

Celebrate Dad in style with dinner and a comedy show at Brothers. Experience the perfect Father’s Day celebration where you can treat Dad to an unforgettable evening of laughter, delicious food and live entertainment. Catch one of the two comedy shows featuring the talented Mark Curry from the beloved TV series “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper” while you enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by the skilled chefs at Brothers and get ready to be entertained with a hilarious performance guaranteed to have you laughing throughout the night.

The city of Norfolk would not be the creative, diverse and vibrant community that it is without the endless contributions made by Black residents and business owners. Some of these Black-owned businesses have become staples, while others have just planted their roots. From scrumptious soul food to self-care sanctuaries, we celebrate these businesses within our city and encourage you to visit their establishments to continue to support and lift them up. Here are a few Black-owned businesses to get you started.

The street view of 350 Grace is a sleek and simple black and white facade, but once you open their front door, a vibrant blue, white and brick interior greets you. Their menu is a perfect marriage of traditional Southern comfort food and modern cuisine. Not only is the food delicious and innovative; it is completely gluten- and grain-free. Chef Willie Moats brings extreme talent to the 350 Grace menu with dishes like Black Garlic Molasses Glazed Half Cornish Hen served with maple sweet potatoes, fried okra, tomato marmalade and melted goat cheese. Their cocktail menu favors Southern concoctions like the Salted Grapefruit Bourbon Martini (Jim Beam Black, ruby red grapefruit juice, simple syrup, grapefruit zest), or try an after dinner drink like Mississippi Mud (Goslings Rum, creme de banana, half-and-half and Hennessy). To cap off the meal, indulge in a Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread Brûlée served with fresh blueberry jam.

Southern wraparound porches will catch your eye when you drive by Bar-Q’s location nestled inside Bold Mariner Brewing Company. Then, your attention will quickly divert to the oversized meat smoker that resides in their parking lot, leaving you to wonder just how delicious their barbecue must be. Next, comes the beautiful aromas of freshly smoked meat that will have your mouth watering almost instantly. Bar-Q has an à la carte menu, but we highly suggest filling up a platter with their moist brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, spicy (but not too spicy) jalapeño and cheddar links and classic cornbread. Pitmaster Jayme Campbell is a barbecue pro but embraces his creative side and hosts occasional BBQ Sushi Nights at the brewery.

This upscale chicken joint utilizes a combination of spices from all over the world, plus the best bourbon-infused sauces and brines. They offer everything from a classic two-piece and a biscuit to duck-fried rice.

Shop this streetwear brand with a high fashion aesthetic inside Selden Market. They specialize in ready-to-wear fashion and accessories.

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Norfolk, Brothers is the perfect mix of the traditional dining experience with a contemporary flair. Founded and inspired by NBA referee and Norfolk native Tony Brothers, the restaurant offers a fine dining experience that is vibrant, inviting and entertaining. Brothers boats a broad menu that will entice the most sophisticated and adventurous palate. Kindred spirits are invited to enjoy the finest cut of chops, a variety of fresh seafood and a robust selection of spirits.

Canvas Social Cuisine, located in the heart of Downtown Norfolk serves up comfort food, soul, Caribbean and American inspired dishes.

This Caribbean fusion cafe inside Selden Market brings fresh ingredients inside a neighborhood paradise. Embark on a food tour around the West Indies with every bite, right from the convenience of Downtown Norfolk.

Did you know that Norfolk is home to a black-owned record store? Even though vinyl sales are skyrocketing in the U.S., only a fraction of the country’s 2,500 record stores are Black-owned, according to an article from Insider. At Freshtopia you can browse their vinyl record collection, shop for “fresh” hip-hop-related gear or catch beesus the DJ spinning live on fresh radio.

Get Well Soon founders Virginia Thornton and Zahra Ahmad have created a self-care sanctuary to cater to a need they saw in themselves and in their community: suffering anxiety and depression in silence. Get Well Soon offers guided meditation, yoga, massages, facials, brow and lash services, an infrared sauna and a merchandise shop. This fun and welcoming environment is ideal for achieving healthier minds and bodies.

There is something truly elegant about a macaron with its delicate, almond meringue discs and decadent fillings in all flavors. Kisha Moore, owner of Hummingbird Macarons, fanned the flames of our macaron obsession since opening her sweet shop in the NEON Arts District. Kisha’s creativity is appreciated through her fun macaron flavors including peach habanero, sea salt caramel and South Pacific (an infusion of Thai basil, blood orange and calamansi juices). While macarons are her speciality, keep a lookout for her lemon meringues, chocolatey Vegan cookies and funfetti cakes.

This all-vegan restaurant located in Park Place brings alternative options to meet without compromising the flavor. The secret is Jikoni Kush, a non-hybrid grain hailing from the tropics of Africa. Try their vegetable pasta mixed with Jikoni Kush, tomatoes, mushrooms, mixed bell peppers, onions and avocados, smothered in Jibini (Alfredo mixed with spicy Jamaican jerk sauce and topped with potatoes). Looking for something sweet? Try a vegan smoothies made with almond milk, organic agave and cashews for added creaminess. This cafe shares its location The House of Consciousness bookshop, promising that if guests arrive with an empty stomach and open mind, they’ll send them back full.

Owner Chris Simmonds launched this zero waste + refill shop in multiple cities throughout the region, including Norfolk. His Ghent shop features sustainable alternatives to everyday items that are healthier for you and our planet. Look for eco-friendly products made from natural ingredients that are free from harsh, synthetic chemicals and stem from makers who are environmentally aware. Household items like soap, lotion and deodorant are sold in recycled, recyclable, compostable or biodegradable packaging—or without packaging at all. While you’re there, peruse the vast, curated selection of nonalcoholic beverages at Ceremony, a section of the store within Less Than.

Real food, real good! That’s the motto at My Mama’s Kitchen where Owner and Chef Motier “Moe” Stevenson proudly shares his family’s Southern comfort recipes with excited patrons at his East Beach restaurant. There are many must-try menu items, including Mama’s Wings, shrimp or catfish po’ boys, The “Drip” Sandwich, fries and cornbread. Brunch is served on weekends, and dessert is a must, especially if you’re getting the Strawberry Smash.

Curated by Nicole Dortch, Petit a Petit (French for little by little) is a full-service luxury lingerie boutique offering bra fitting appointments, virtual shopping, fashion events, gift registry, studio services and more. The company carries bras to fit sizes A–) and styles for bridal, lingerie, hosiery, lounge and sleepwear, maternity, post-surgery solutions and men’s underwear. Owner Nicole Dortch aims to empower and mentor young women to be successful in life, promising positivity, financial literacy and change.

Experience an elevated dining experience on Granby Street with Prime 255, located in the heart of Downtown Norfolk. The restaurant combines a luxury atmosphere with craft cocktails and culinary delights.

Pure Lagos is an Afropolitan Boutique and Art Gallery. African art pieces decorate the walls while African jewelry, clothing and accessories are featured throughout the store. Owner Sia Alexander not only sources all of these goods from Africa herself but prides herself on being a Fair Trade boutique. With a degree in Human Psychology and incredible knowledge in herbology, nutrition, yoga and spiritual healing gained from time spent in Paris, Capetown and West Africa, Sia offers African holistic health consultations to assist with deep healing.

Shark City Naturals is a family-owned and operated, all-natural cosmetics company. The products were initially created to combat adverse reactions from products made with unknown substances but quickly evolved into a business providing a variety of beauty products made with wholesome ingredients.

Established in 1924, Stark and Legum, a haberdashery, is a Granby Street landmark offering customers the finest selection of men’s clothing, including designer suits, shoes and hats. Their talented and knowledgeable staff will help choose the best apparel and accessories for any occasion.

As a self-proclaimed candle hoarder, Erica Parham sought a way to avoid her frequent migraines, which a doctor attributed to toxins in most candles. She began experimenting by creating her own nontoxic versions. The migraines disappeared, the candles became a hit, and Erica left her nursing career to launch Sugar & Grace. Here you’ll find soy candles, room sprays, wax melts and candle accessories such as wax warmers, wick trimmers and more. Parham has also curated a selection of home goods, houseplants, cut flowers and body care items from around the world. Treat yourself to a candle (or several) at her shop in Selden Market.

With a mission to share the true taste of West Africa cuisines with our region in an authentic, fresh and contemporary way, Yendidi is a cultural gem in our city. Start with an Afro Pie, a flaky, buttery pie filled with vegetables and a choice of beef, fish or chicken. Opt for a Ghana salad as a lighter option, or dive into a combination platter like Black Beans Jolly Burrito. With a tantalizing selection of soups and stews, plus meat, poultry, seafood and vegan options, there’s something to excite everyone’s taste buds at Yendidi.

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Downtown Norfolk is home to some fantastic hotels, including some with unique attributes that make this city and stay one-of-a-kind. From plush mattresses fit for a queen to art galleries and rooftop beer gardens, our Downtown hotels have so many distinctive amenities and features to offer. Below, you will find the most unique hotels in Norfolk.

Four Eleven York is the only boutique inn in the city, located among the cobblestone streets of Freemason, which is the oldest and most historic neighborhood in Norfolk. The exterior is that of an 1890s building while the inside has been renovated for modern rustic aesthetic. Their suites are named after prominent landmarks or neighborhoods within the city and are each unique in their design. You’ll find rain showers and heated bathroom floors throughout. Their Magnolia Suite has a special Paramount Sleep Mattress called Hypnos, which is the exclusive supplier of mattresses for the residences of the royal family! While their rich hospitality and comfy beds may make you fall in love with the inn, it’s their top-tier restaurant that will keep you coming back for more. We highly recommend their seasonally focused dinners as well as their brunches which often feature mini doughnuts.

Located in the heart of Downtown Norfolk, Hilton Norfolk The Main has become a hub for beer lovers, sophisticated Italian palates and those who love to slurp down a local oyster. The Main is home to three pillar restaurants, Grain, Norfolk’s only rooftop beer garden, Varia, an Italian Trattoria with a secret dining room and Saltine, a beloved seafood restaurant with a large outdoor patio. Now, aside from their multi-restaurant offerings, The Main is the only hotel that offers birds-eye views down historic Granby Street, the Battleship Wisconsin and the Elizabeth River. Another unique feature, the Main is home to multiple contemporary art pieces that are scattered throughout. Local tip: Ask the front desk or a greeter for a paper guide to their art pieces.

The Waterside Marriott multi-floor building stands tall and proud along our waterfront skyline and completed a beautiful renovation in July 2020. They have an iconic sixth floor outdoor terrace that has stunning views of our neighboring city, Portsmouth, as well as beautiful views of the Elizabeth River. This terrace is the ideal location for a Norfolk wedding, meeting or just a place to sit back and enjoy a cocktail.

This Sheraton hotel has become an icon in our Norfolk skyline and is the only hotel Downtown to be located directly on the Elizabeth River. Running next to the hotel is the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT), a 10.5-mile pedestrian and bike/scooter-friendly trail marked with historic sites, breweries, scenic water views and delicious restaurants. If you are not familiar with our city, it’s a great way to explore several neighborhoods and live like a Norfolkian.

The Glass Light Hotel and Gallery is a boutique hotel and art gallery housed in a building reimagined from its 1912 heritage and boasts 113 masterfully detailed guest rooms and suites. Exceptional works of glass art by world renowned artists such as Peter Bremers and Lino Tagliapietra are featured throughout. Intimate meeting and event spaces are seamlessly connected to the gallery, allowing inspiration and creativity from their users. Onsite, the Perry Glass Art Collection features beautiful glass pieces from local and internationally renowned artists. The private collection encompasses two floors of over 65 glass art pieces from world renowned artists. The gallery is free and open to the public.