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Bar & grill in Port Aransas, Texas
What should I order at Virginia's On the Bay?
What to order
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🥇
Oysters
Frequently praised as fresh, large, and very good, with multiple reviewers specifically saying they loved them or that they were well shucked.
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🥈
Black Drum
Recommended for being tender, moist, flaky, and very flavorful; several reviews singled it out as especially good, including in the sampler basket and as a grilled fish choice.
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Cajun Shrimp Appetizer
Mentioned as lovely and not too spicy, making it a well-liked starter.
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4
Calamari
Called superb, extremely tender, and flavorful, with one reviewer saying it was the best tasting calamari they had ever had.
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5
Seafood Boil
Shared and described as perfect, fresh, and a fun, delicious meal that stood out on a date night.
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6
Key Lime Pie
Mentioned as a dessert option, but the review that described it was negative, so it is not as strongly recommended as the other dishes.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
About Virginia's On the Bay
Open-air restaurant with a view of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway serving seafood & American fare.
Amenities
Service options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Food
- Food at bar
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked
What is Virginia's On the Bay known for?
It is best known for fresh oysters, especially oysters on the half shell, along with mahi mahi, crab cakes, and fried fish. Reviewers also frequently mention the harbor and marina views, which make the seafood meal feel tied to the waterfront setting in Port Aransas.
What dishes are most recommended at Virginia's On the Bay?
Frequently recommended dishes include oysters, mahi mahi special, crab cakes, fried sampler basket with black drum, coconut shrimp platter, and the seafood boil. Reviewers also praise the calamari, tuna dip, shrimp cocktail, and key lime pie, though the pie gets more mixed feedback than the savory dishes.
What is the atmosphere like at Virginia's On the Bay?
The atmosphere is open-air, casual, and relaxed, with water, boat, and bird views from patio seating. It works well for couples on date night, groups, and families, and reviewers describe it as lively enough to be a little loud at times but still comfortable and scenic.
Is Virginia's On the Bay good value?
Yes, many reviewers say the $20 to $30 price range feels fair for fresh seafood and large portions. One group said six people ate for less than $200, and others mention affordable drinks and generous servings like crab legs and sampler plates.
What should I know about wait times at Virginia's On the Bay?
A wait is common, especially during dinner and holidays, and some reviewers report very long waits on busy weekends. Since seating is open-air rather than indoors, it is smart to plan for warm weather and expect the best experience when you are not in a rush.
Is parking available at Virginia's On the Bay?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is Virginia's On the Bay kid-friendly?
Yes, Virginia's On the Bay is good for kids.
