Rick’s Cafe in Virginia Beach is a culinary gem that perfectly blends a vibrant coastal atmosphere with an exciting menu designed to satisfy a variety of palates. Known for its lively ambiance and stunning ocean views, the cafe offers more than just a meal—it promises an experience that captures the essence of seaside dining.
Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, classic American dishes, or creative cocktails, Rick’s Cafe menu caters to all tastes while emphasizing quality and freshness.
From breakfast delights to late-night bites, the menu is crafted with care to highlight both traditional favorites and innovative new dishes. The attention to detail in every plate reflects the cafe’s commitment to exceptional dining.
Guests can enjoy everything from perfectly seasoned appetizers to indulgent desserts, with each course prepared using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Rick’s Cafe truly stands out as a go-to destination for food lovers visiting the Virginia Beach area.
Beyond the food, the menu features thoughtfully curated beverages that complement the culinary offerings. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing cocktail, a robust coffee, or a selection of craft beers, Rick’s Cafe provides options to enhance your dining experience.
This combination of delicious food, inviting atmosphere, and attentive service makes it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Rick’s Cafe offers a range of flavorful options designed to kickstart your meal with excitement. These starters reflect a balance between classic comfort foods and bold, inventive recipes.
Each dish is crafted to share, making the appetizers perfect for groups or anyone wanting to sample a variety of tastes. Ingredients are fresh and often locally sourced, enhancing the dishes’ depth and authenticity.
From crispy calamari to savory sliders, the menu appeals to those who appreciate both texture and flavor contrasts.
Some standout appetizers include the famous crab cakes, which are celebrated for their delicate seasoning and golden crust. Another popular choice is the loaded nachos, piled high with cheese, jalapeños, and a homemade salsa that adds just the right amount of heat.
Vegetarian options are also thoughtfully included to accommodate diverse dietary preferences.
Popular Choices
- Crab Cakes: Served with a tangy remoulade sauce, these are a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Loaded Nachos: A perfect blend of melted cheese, fresh jalapeños, and house-made salsa.
- Crispy Calamari: Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, paired with a zesty marinara.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Filled with fresh vegetables and served with a sweet chili dipping sauce.
“Our appetizers set the tone for a memorable meal, combining fresh flavors with creative twists,” says the executive chef.
Signature Entrées
Rick’s Cafe showcases an impressive collection of signature entrées that highlight local seafood, premium meats, and inventive culinary techniques. These dishes form the heart of the menu and are designed to deliver satisfying and memorable dining experiences.
The entrées emphasize freshness and quality, with many items featuring catch-of-the-day seafood sourced right from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Meats are carefully selected for tenderness and flavor, often paired with seasonal sides that complement the main protein beautifully.
The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures every plate looks as good as it tastes.
Whether you prefer a grilled filet mignon or a delicately seared scallop dish, the entrées at Rick’s Cafe offer something special. Each plate is thoughtfully composed to balance flavors, textures, and presentation.
Diners can expect generous portions that leave a lasting impression.
Highlighted Entrées
- Seared Scallops: Served with a citrus beurre blanc and seasonal vegetables.
- Filet Mignon: A tender cut cooked to perfection, accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes.
- Blackened Mahi-Mahi: Spiced and grilled, with a mango salsa that adds sweetness and zest.
- Vegetarian Risotto: Creamy arborio rice with fresh garden vegetables and parmesan.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Price |
| Seared Scallops | Scallops, citrus beurre blanc, seasonal vegetables | $28 |
| Filet Mignon | Beef filet, garlic mashed potatoes, seasonal greens | $34 |
| Blackened Mahi-Mahi | Mahi-Mahi, blackening spices, mango salsa | $26 |
| Vegetarian Risotto | Arborio rice, garden vegetables, parmesan | $22 |
Breakfast and Brunch Offerings
The breakfast and brunch menu at Rick’s Cafe is a celebration of classic favorites elevated by fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations. It attracts both early risers and those looking for a leisurely late-morning meal.
From hearty omelets to light and refreshing fruit bowls, the offerings cater to a range of tastes and dietary needs. The cafe makes a point of sourcing local eggs, breads, and produce, ensuring each dish bursts with flavor and quality.
Many brunch items are also accompanied by house-made sides and sauces that enhance the overall experience.
Whether you’re craving a savory dish or something sweeter, the brunch menu provides satisfying options. The inclusion of coffee and specialty drinks rounds out the meal, making Rick’s a great spot to start the day or enjoy a weekend treat.
Brunch Favorites
- Eggs Benedict: Classic poached eggs over English muffins with hollandaise sauce.
- Pancake Stack: Fluffy pancakes served with fresh berries and maple syrup.
- Avocado Toast: Whole grain bread topped with smashed avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Breakfast Burrito: Filled with eggs, cheese, veggies, and choice of bacon or sausage.
“Our brunch menu is designed to offer comfort and creativity, perfect for any morning mood,” notes the brunch coordinator.
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking health-conscious options or lighter meals, Rick’s Cafe includes a variety of salads and small plates. These dishes emphasize fresh, crisp ingredients and vibrant flavors that refresh the palate.
The salads often feature seasonal produce, house-made dressings, and add-ons like nuts, cheese, or grilled proteins. They offer a balance of nutrition and taste, appealing to guests who want something both satisfying and wholesome.
Many dishes can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
From classic Caesar salads to inventive grain bowls, the lighter fare section is versatile and flavorful. It pairs well with the cafe’s signature beverages, making it easy to enjoy a complete, balanced meal without feeling weighed down.
Salad Selections
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan, croutons, and house Caesar dressing.
- Quinoa Power Bowl: Quinoa, kale, roasted vegetables, and citrus vinaigrette.
- Greek Salad: Mixed greens, olives, feta cheese, cucumbers, and red onion.
- Grilled Chicken Salad: Mixed greens topped with grilled chicken breast and honey mustard dressing.
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Calories |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine, parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing | 350 |
| Quinoa Power Bowl | Quinoa, kale, roasted vegetables, citrus vinaigrette | 420 |
| Greek Salad | Mixed greens, olives, feta, cucumbers, red onion | 380 |
| Grilled Chicken Salad | Mixed greens, grilled chicken, honey mustard dressing | 450 |
Beverages and Cocktails
Rick’s Cafe offers a diverse beverage menu that perfectly complements the food, whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner. The drink options range from carefully crafted cocktails to a selection of wines, beers, and non-alcoholic choices.
The cocktail menu highlights fresh ingredients and innovative recipes, often inspired by coastal flavors and seasonal produce. Bartenders use house-made syrups, fresh herbs, and artisanal spirits to create drinks that are both visually stunning and delicious.
For those preferring non-alcoholic options, there are gourmet coffees, teas, and freshly squeezed juices available.
The beverages are designed to enhance the dining experience, whether by balancing the flavors of a spicy dish or offering a refreshing contrast to richer fare. The wine list includes both local and international selections, curated to satisfy a variety of tastes and budgets.
Signature Cocktails
- Virginia Breeze: Vodka, cranberry juice, lime, and fresh mint.
- Spiced Rum Punch: Rum, tropical fruit juices, and a hint of cinnamon.
- Classic Margarita: Tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec with a salted rim.
- Non-Alcoholic Citrus Fizz: Sparkling water, lemon, lime, and a splash of orange juice.
“Our beverage program is crafted to celebrate fresh flavors and local influences,” explains the head bartender.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Ending your meal at Rick’s Cafe on a sweet note is easy with their tempting dessert menu. Each dessert is thoughtfully prepared to offer a satisfying conclusion that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.
The dessert offerings range from rich chocolate creations to lighter fruit-based treats. Many items are made in-house, using high-quality ingredients to ensure freshness and flavor.
Seasonal specials rotate regularly, allowing guests to enjoy new and exciting sweets throughout the year.
Whether you prefer a warm, gooey brownie or a crisp tart, the dessert menu provides indulgent options that cater to all preferences. Portion sizes are generous, making these treats perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Popular Desserts
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Key Lime Pie: Tart and creamy, with a graham cracker crust and whipped cream topping.
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Fresh fruit atop a buttery pastry shell with custard filling.
- Cheesecake: Classic New York style with a choice of strawberry or chocolate drizzle.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Molten chocolate center with vanilla ice cream | $9 |
| Key Lime Pie | Tart lime custard with graham crust | $7 |
| Seasonal Fruit Tart | Fresh fruit and custard in pastry shell | $8 |
| Cheesecake | Classic cheesecake with fruit or chocolate topping | $8 |
Kids’ Menu and Family-Friendly Options
Rick’s Cafe is committed to providing a welcoming dining experience for families, including a specially curated kids’ menu. This section of the menu offers nutritious and tasty options designed to please younger guests while giving parents peace of mind.
The kids’ selections are thoughtfully portioned and feature familiar flavors to appeal to children without sacrificing quality. Nutritional balance is a priority, with options that incorporate vegetables and lean proteins alongside classic comfort foods.
Additionally, the cafe offers family-friendly dining accommodations, including high chairs and a relaxed environment that encourages a stress-free experience. This makes Rick’s Cafe a popular spot for family outings and celebrations.
Kids’ Favorites
- Chicken Tenders: Crispy, breaded chicken served with a side of apple slices.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, a timeless favorite for kids.
- Mini Cheeseburger: A smaller version of the classic, served with fries.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Melted cheddar on toasted bread, paired with carrot sticks.
“We believe great food should be accessible and enjoyable for guests of all ages,” remarks the restaurant manager.
Conclusion
Rick’s Cafe in Virginia Beach stands out as a premier dining destination, offering a menu that expertly balances coastal influences with creative culinary touches. From mouthwatering appetizers to decadent desserts, every dish showcases the cafe’s dedication to fresh, quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
The diverse menu ensures that each guest, whether a seafood enthusiast, a health-conscious diner, or a family with kids, finds something delightful to enjoy.
What truly sets Rick’s Cafe apart is its ability to create a warm, inviting atmosphere paired with exceptional food and attentive service. The beverage program adds another layer of enjoyment, with handcrafted cocktails and an impressive wine list designed to complement the cuisine.
Whether you’re visiting for a casual breakfast, a lively dinner, or a special occasion, Rick’s Cafe delivers a consistently memorable experience.
In every aspect, from the carefully curated dishes to the welcoming vibe, Rick’s Cafe reflects the spirit of Virginia Beach itself—fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. It is a destination that invites guests to savor each bite and enjoy the moment, making it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
