The parking lot is a bit small and we had to wait in order to park, but I appreciated it very much that they have someone out in the parking lot managing things by having the waiting cars for an organized line. The young lady at the entry point is wonderful and makes everyone feel welcome as she assures them that their table is being prepared as soon as possible. The menu was nicely rounded out between breakfast items and lunch items, plus healthy items as well as big meals for hungry people. It was hard to choose what to order because there were really good options there. If things had stopped there this would have been a five-star place, but the food just didn't deliver for all of us at the table. Meaning, some of us were disappointed with our meals. They were lacking flavor in some cases. As an example, my beet salad had very little dressing on it and the dressing that was on it tasted mostly of just oil. It seemed like a lot of oily lettuce, and I was a bit disappointed. Only two out of 5 of us said they enjoyed their meal. There's a bakery next door, but we didn't order anything from it. Looked good though.

This restaurant is such a unique find—it almost feels like you’re dining at a cozy bed and breakfast or in someone’s backyard. Everyone was so kind, and the space had a fun, eclectic vibe. They even have their own chickens in the backyard, which adds to the charm! The food was pleasantly surprising. I expected more traditional flavors, but everything tasted incredibly fresh and truly homemade—just like they advertise. I’d definitely recommend this spot for a family breakfast or a relaxed late lunch date. 8.5/10.

Leaping Lizard Café on Shore Drive is one of my all-time favorite spots in Virginia Beach for both a relaxed lunch and a charming date night. The atmosphere is inviting and cozy, with a screened in porch outdoor garden setting that captures the essence of coastal Virginia. Their commitment to using locally grown and seasonal ingredients truly sets them apart—many of the vegetables, herbs, and fruits come straight from nearby farms, and it shows in every fresh, flavorful bite. My personal favorites include the Blueberry Basil Mojito, which is refreshingly balanced with a perfect hint of sweetness, and the Crabcake Benedict, a standout brunch dish featuring tender, flavorful crab and perfectly poached eggs. For lunch, you can’t go wrong with any of their soup and salad combinations, but I especially recommend the sweet potato biscuit with Edwards Surry ham paired with their fresh garden greens salad—it’s the ideal mix of comfort and farm-fresh flavor. No visit is complete without dessert. The giant oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are simply irresistible, and the carrot cake—available by special order—is one of the best I’ve ever had. Whether you’re stopping in for brunch, a casual afternoon meal, or a cozy evening out, Leaping Lizard Café delivers a consistently excellent dining experience rooted in local charm and quality ingredients.