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The Virginia Beach Restaurant Association (VBRA) is the only organization in Hampton Roads dedicated solely to supporting and promoting the restaurant industry. We represent more than 120 restaurants of every style—from local favorites to fine dining destinations—working together to strengthen our city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Our mission is to support, connect, and celebrate the Virginia Beach restaurant community through advocacy, education, marketing, and events that showcase the power of food to bring people together.
Founded in the early 1980s and officially recognized as a nonprofit business league in 2001, VBRA has grown from a small group of restaurateurs into a powerful voice for our industry. For nearly 25 years, we’ve been known for initiatives like Virginia Beach Restaurant Week, advocacy at the city and state level, and innovative community programs.
Restaurants are more than places to eat—they’re job creators, cultural ambassadors, and vital to Virginia Beach’s tourism economy. From teens starting their first jobs to seasoned hospitality professionals, our industry supports thousands of families and strengthens the community we all call home.
President – Debbie Lou Tucker Hague, Ocean Eddies
Vice President – Bill Gambrell, Doc Taylor’s & Tautog’s
Treasurer – Colt Leonard, Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
Secretary – open
Immediate Past President – Michael Mauch
Jonathon Almodovar, Shorebreak- Pungo
Elizabeth “BJ” Baumann, Rockafeller’s
Bill Dillon, Abbey Road
Emily Haak, Hot Tuna & Shorebreak-Shore Drive
Bob Hughes, Chop’s
Stephen Lippert, Mission BBQ
Mike Standing, Waterman’s Surfside Grill
Va Tang, Thai Arroy
Martha P. Davenport, Executive Director
Patrick Evans-Hylton, VBRA Culinary Engagement & Legacy Manager
Whether you’re a restaurant looking for support, a business partner seeking connections, or a diner who loves discovering new flavors—VBRA invites you to be part of our story.
For media inquiries, please contact Martha Davenport at director@dineinvb.com
