Ghent Square may be less than a mile across, but Norfolk locals know this charming historic neighborhood packs a mighty punch when it comes to its food scene. With tree-lined streets, stately row houses, and lively plazas, Ghent Square’s diners move from craft coffee to global bites to hidden sweets—all within a scenic stroll.
Whether you’re seeking a casual breakfast, a fine dining celebration, or an Instagram-worthy pastry, Ghent Square delivers with creativity, character, and community spirit.
Ghent Square’s Culinary Heart: Colonial & Colley Corridor
Some of the best dining spots cluster along Colley Avenue and Colonial Avenue—two of Ghent’s most walkable streets. Here’s where to start your food adventure:
- No Frill Bar & Grill (806 Spotswood Ave at Colonial Ave)
This iconic corner eatery has been a neighborhood standby for decades. The funky, vibrant décor hints at the eclectic comfort food menu. Locals rave about the vast sandwich selection—from Chesapeake Bay Crab Cake BLTs to Greek chicken pitas. Brunch is legendary (don’t miss the lemon poppy seed pancakes). Price range: $$.
- Leone’s Italian (449 E Main St at Colley Ave)
Step into Leone’s for housemade pastas and Neapolitan-style pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. The candle-lit ambiance is ideal for date night or a cozy family dinner. The burrata appetizer and bolognese tagliatelle are menu musts. Price range: $$$.
- Baker’s Crust (330 W 21st St at Colley Ave)
Famed for fresh breads, gourmet sandwiches, and hearty salads, Baker’s Crust hits the spot for lunch or casual dinners. Their tomato basil soup paired with a warm baguette is a Norfolk comfort food classic. Dessert lovers, try the bread pudding! Price range: $$.
Morning Rituals: Coffee and Breakfast Gems
Ghent Square is blessed with some of Norfolk’s best spots to fuel your morning:
- Cure Coffeehouse (503 Botetourt St at Bute St)
A bright, relaxed haven beloved by college students and remote workers, Cure pours exceptional espresso and locally roasted beans. Their avocado toast with poached egg sets the standard for a wholesome start, and vegan pastries rotate daily. Price range: $-$$.
- Elliot’s Fair Grounds Café (806 Baldwin Ave)
Quirky, colorful, and proudly independent since 1993, Fair Grounds is *the* neighborhood spot for a bottomless mug. Sip a fair-trade dark roast while writing in your journal or reading The Pilot. Their bagels and muffins are always fresh. Price range: $.
Sweet Treats: Bakeries and Dessert Havens
For a taste of Ghent’s sweeter side, pop into these neighborhood bakeries and shops:
- La Brioche Bakery (1919 Colley Ave)
This tiny French bakery crafts croissants, macarons, and seasonal fruit tarts that taste straight from Paris. The almond croissant melts in your mouth, and the lemon tartelette is a revelation. Go early for the best selection! Price range: $$.
- Hummingbird Macarons & Desserts (809 Granby St)
Enjoy spectacular, jewel-toned macarons in flavors like pistachio, earl grey, and lavender honey, plus rotating cakes and cookies. Their to-go packaging makes for a perfect gift or picnic treat. Price range: $$.
Taste the World: Global Flavors in Ghent Square
Ghent’s melting pot is on full display with international eateries for every craving:
- Yorgo’s Bageldashery (2123 Colonial Ave)
Not only are the bagels hand-rolled and boiled, but Yorgo’s also offers vegan schmears, deli sandwiches, and Greek specialties. Their lox bagel with capers and red onion is unbeatable. Price range: $.
- Mr. Shawarma (725 W 21st St)
Serving up Lebanese comfort food—think lamb and beef shawarma wraps, tabbouleh, and baklava—Mr. Shawarma is a go-to lunch and late night fuel spot. Can’t-miss: their creamy garlic sauce. Price range: $.
- Basil Thai (298 W 21st St)
This colorful hidden gem cooks up punchy curries, sweet Thai iced tea, and tangy larb salads. The crispy duck and Panang curry are house favorites. Price range: $$.
Food Trucks & Pop-ups: Street Food Surprises
On weekends and at special events, Ghent Square hosts an ever-changing rotation of food trucks—often parked near The Hague, Stockley Gardens, and local breweries. Some local trucks to look for:
- Get Stuffed: Homey stuffed potatoes with endless topping combos
- Capt’n Crabby: Maryland-style crab cakes on-the-go
- Aloha Snacks: Hawaiian-inspired bowls and crispy chicken sandwiches
Check social media or the neighborhood’s Farmers Market calendar for appearances!
Hidden Gems & Local Legends
Beyond the headlines, every real local has a few under-the-radar favorites:
- Doumar’s Cones & BBQ (1919 Monticello Ave, a short walk east)
It’s not technically inside Ghent Square, but too legendary to ignore. Doumar’s invented the waffle cone! Stop in for North Carolina-style barbecue and finish with a fresh ice cream cone—made on a century-old machine.
- Press 626 Café & Wine Bar (626 W Olney Rd)
Tucked into a charming historic house, this romantic neighborhood wine bar offers small plates, gourmet charcuterie, and over 35 wines by the glass. The pressed fig and prosciutto panini is an exquisite bite. Price range: $$$.
- Mermaid Winery (330 W 22nd St)
Virginia’s only urban winery, Mermaid crafts small-batch wines and pairs them with cheese boards, truffle fries, and seasonal fare. Their cozy patio is a lovely spot for happy hour. Price range: $$-$$$.
Why Ghent Square’s Food Scene Stands Out
What truly sets Ghent Square apart isn’t just the diversity of cuisine or the friendly service—it’s the way food creates community here. Many eateries are family-owned, sourcing ingredients locally, and sharing recipes passed through generations. Dog-friendly patios, bike racks, and public art add to the neighborhood’s welcoming, walkable atmosphere.
Strolling Colley, Colonial, and the surrounding blocks in Ghent, you’ll find candle-lit Italian meals, rainbow rows of French tarts, spicy Thai curries, and nostalgic soda fountain treats—sometimes on the same block!
Whether you crave an upscale wine dinner, a casual outdoor lunch, or simply the city’s best cup of cold brew, Ghent Square invites you to eat like a local—and return often.