Restaurant: Rudees on the Inlet

[Recoil]

Rudee’s on the Inlet: The Perfect Addition to a Relaxing Beach Vacation

If you’re looking for a Virginia Beach seafood restaurant with casual charm and neighborhood feel, look no further than Rudee’s on the Inlet Restaurant and Raw Bar.

From the nautical decor to the tropical signature cocktails, the atmosphere at this 23 year-old waterfront restaurant is decidedly beachy. Rudee’s is an authentic replica of an old Coast Guard station, but you’ll feel like you’re dining at a friend’s summer rental.

The vibe is laid-back and homey, with an obvious emphasis on family and friends. It’s a great venue for groups because you don’t have to worry if the kids are a little too loud (the lively conversation will drown them out), and even the picky eaters among you will find something appealing (the menu is extensive). Go ahead wear the flip flops, the attire here is casual and the service is friendly, knowledgeable and prompt.

The menu offers everything you expect from a good seafood restaurant - fried and broiled platters, steamers and oysters on the half shell, crab cakes, and surf n’ turf combinations. While the focus is undoubtedly on seafood and steak, there’s also a variety of sandwiches, including a Maine lobster roll, and pasta dishes. The blackboard lists daily specials and the fresh catch selections, which, if you’re lucky, includes a fish that pairs well with Rudee’s "as-seen-on the Food Network" crabmeat and Smithfield ham bearnaise sauce. A thoughtful wine list pairs menu selections with complimentary whites and reds, and bottled beer arrives with nice frosty pint glasses.

House specialties, designated by a red anchor, are peppered throughout the menu. For a great appetizer, try the oysters rockefeller. These creamy morsels topped with bacon and green onions are local favorites for good reason.

If you’re a fan of fried seafood, the Fried Platter is a good choice for a main entree. It’s a straightforward offering of wonderfully meaty crab cakes and crisp batter-fried shrimp, oysters and flounder.

Rudee’s on the Inlet serves simply satisfying food in a very pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. An evening here is the perfect addition to a beach vacation, and a great remedy for those locals nostalgic for the coming summer days.

Hours: Daily 11 am - close; Sunday Brunch 10 am - 2 pm

Prices: $6.95-$29.95

Reservations: Not accepted, but call ahead for “preferred seating� in covered porch areas. Recommended.

Seating: Indoor, outdoor (in season)

Attire: Casual

Payment: Visa, Mastercard, American Express

Telephone: 757.425.1777

Address: 227 Mediterranean Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Free valet parking

Review by Meredith Kinsey.

[beachguy_inthongs]

Good choice. I always order a dozen steamed clams and the steak.