How to Eat Your Way Through Cape Charles
There are so many different ways to explore Cape Charles — and one of our favorites is driven by the tastebuds.
This small town offers an impressively robust culinary landscape, with unique flavors that you’ll find only on our little slice of the Eastern Shore. Stick with us, and we’ll show you how to get to know Cape Charles through some of its most delectable food.
Start the Day with Something Sweet. A busy day at the beach requires proper fuel, so treat yourself to an indulgent pastry from one of our bakeries — or sit down to a full breakfast. Mason Avenue Bakery, and Coastal Baking Co. have been known to see lines out the door as happy customers wait patiently to get their fix of scones, sticky buns, and muffins.
For a sit-down experience, grab a seat on the patio at the Cape Charles Coffee House for pancakes and prime people-watching, or head to Rayfield’s Pharmacy for a budget-friendly breakfast with the locals. Don’t miss out on the latest addition to the Cape Charles breakfast and lunch scene – The Northampton Hotel – offering homemade specialties on the porch or inside! Attached to the lobby of the Hotel Cape Charles, Sonny’s is a newer addition to the local scene that offers specialty lattes, breakfast sandwiches, and more filling plates ranging from the virtuous (avocado toast) to the indulgent (like the banana pudding waffle).
Don’t Skimp on Lunch. How does a picnic on the beach sound? Or maybe a leisurely lunch overlooking the water is more your style? These are just a few of the tough choices you’ll be faced with when midday arrives on the Eastern Shore. The Shanty is a top-rated local spot for lunch (and dinner, for that matter) thanks to one of the best views in town and an extensive menu spotlighting local seafood (think blue crab dip and fried local oyster baskets). Stop by Kelly’s Gingernut Pub for classic Irish cuisine in a cozy setting, or return to any of our recommended breakfast spots for equally enjoyable lunchtime fare. Both Cape Charles Coffee House and Rayfield’s Pharmacy switch over to their lunch menus midday with classic options like wraps, sandwiches, and burgers. If you are looking for award-winning sandwiches? Head over to Cravings for amazing sandwiches! Right on the edge of town, Cape Charles Brewing Company serves lunch daily in their spacious tasting room or out on the expansive lawn — the Brew Daddy Burger, topped with bacon, caramelized onions, and dripping with beer cheese, is legendary.
A Dinner to Remember. For authentic Italian cuisine and a romantic vibe, visit Ambrogia Caffe & Enoteca. Or wrap up your day with a view of the water — The Shanty, Hook @ Harvey, and The Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery are all waterfront spots known for their fresh seafood and sunset views. Head over to Aj’s Bar and Grill for the ultimate elevated sports bar cuisine! Voted the best burger on the Eastern Shore by the Local’s Choice 2024! If you’re craving some homestyle classics, visit Salt and Sand. The entire family will thank you! Or order some pizza from Deadrise Italian Kitchen to-go and take your pizza party right to the beach!
In the warmer months, a cone from Brown Dog Ice Cream, Chases, Rayfields, or frozen custard from Cowlicks Creamery is the ideal way to cap off a day of dining out on the Cape Charles.