Restaurant Information
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23464
⏰ Opening Hours
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ℹ️ About This Restaurant
As you step through the doors of Desmond's Island Soul Grill, you're immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The cozy, casual setting creates a laid-back vibe, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Vibrant island-inspired decor and artwork adorn the walls, transporting you to a tropical oasis right in the heart of Virginia Beach. The trendy, yet comfortable ambiance makes Desmond's a popular gathering spot for the local community and visiting tourists alike.
The menu at Desmond's Island Soul Grill boasts a delightful array of vegan and vegetarian dishes, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to offering healthy and delicious options. Standout items include the mouthwatering Vegan Jerk Chicken, a flavorful blend of plant-based protein and bold Caribbean spices, as well as the Vegan Tacos, featuring a creative combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and house-made sauces. For those with a sweet tooth, the Vegan Banana Pudding is a must-try, earning rave reviews from diners. With a focus on serving comforting, quality food, Desmond's caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone on the menu.
The service at Desmond's Island Soul Grill is consistently praised for its attentiveness and friendliness. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to offer recommendations, ensuring a seamless dining experience. Customers appreciate the efficient and no-contact delivery options, as well as the availability of outdoor seating for those who prefer to dine al fresco. Overall, Desmond's offers exceptional value, with a price range of $10-$20 per meal, making it an accessible and satisfying choice for a casual, vegan-friendly dining experience.
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🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance
Stepping into Desmond's Island Soul Grill is like being transported to a vibrant oasis in the heart of Virginia Beach. The restaurant's decor is a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, with natural wood accents, soft lighting, and vibrant Caribbean-inspired artwork adorning the walls. The overall vibe is one of warmth and comfort, inviting guests to settle in and savor the flavors of the island-inspired cuisine.
The seating arrangements at Desmond's cater to a variety of dining experiences, from cozy two-tops perfect for intimate conversations to larger tables that accommodate groups with ease. The spacious layout and ample natural light create a sense of airiness and openness, while the well-placed sound-dampening elements ensure a peaceful, relaxed ambiance, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal with family and friends.
🌿 Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options - Wide selection of gluten-free entrees, sides, and desserts made with gluten-free ingredients.
- Raw Food Choices - Variety of fresh, uncooked vegan salads, smoothies, and plant-based dishes.
- Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and dishes to accommodate nut allergies and sensitivities.
- Keto-Friendly Items - Vegan, low-carb options like zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, and avocado-based dishes.
⏰ Best Times to Visit
- Weekday lunch - Enjoy a relaxed mid-day meal amidst the casual, cozy atmosphere and sample the restaurant's delectable vegan and vegetarian offerings during the quieter lunch rush.
- Weekend brunch - Indulge in a leisurely brunch experience, featuring the restaurant's popular comfort food dishes and delightful desserts in a family-friendly setting.
- Happy hour - Unwind with a refreshing drink and savor the restaurant's small plates or shared appetizers during the lively, trendy happy hour atmosphere.
⭐ What Makes Us Special
- Veteran-Owned and Women-Owned: Desmond's Island Soul Grill is a Black-owned, veteran-owned, and women-owned restaurant, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of its founders.
- Extensive Vegan and Vegetarian Menu: The restaurant offers a wide range of plant-based dishes, catering to a variety of dietary needs and preferences, including a popular selection of vegan comfort foods.
- Commitment to Sustainability: Desmond's sources ingredients locally and emphasizes environmentally-friendly practices, showcasing its dedication to sustainable and ethical food production.
📍 Local Area & Neighborhood
Desmond's Island Soul Grill is located in the heart of Virginia Beach, a coastal city known for its lively boardwalk, pristine beaches, and vibrant arts scene. The restaurant is nestled in a bustling commercial district, surrounded by a mix of independent boutiques, trendy cafes, and family-friendly attractions. Just a short walk away, visitors can stroll along the iconic Virginia Beach Oceanfront, taking in the sights and sounds of this dynamic seaside community.
Desmond's draws a diverse clientele, catering to both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant's welcoming atmosphere and commitment to plant-based cuisine make it a favorite among health-conscious diners, families, and those seeking a unique culinary experience. With its proximity to the city's thriving LGBTQ+ community and veteran support organizations, Desmond's has also become a hub for inclusivity and community engagement, offering a safe and comfortable space for all to enjoy.
💬 Customer Reviews
"Absolutely phenomenal! Desmond’s is a true culinary gem in the Virginia Beach/Norfolk area—a rare find where flavor, cre..."
"This place is magical! The Rasta pasta was delicious, the guava lazed lentil balls were the best food I’ve ever tasted! ..."
"This place is amazing, the food is so good, full of flavor and you can tell she cooks with love. I went 2 days in a row ..."