by Marlin Bressi

Created on: June 22, 2009   Last Updated: August 13, 2009

Virginia Beach is one of the East Coast's favorite tourist destinations, which means that there is no shortage of family-friendly restaurants. When vacationing in this charming coastal city, here are a few recommendations for family-friendly dining that won't bust your budget.

1. Rockafeller's Restaurant (308 Mediterranean Avenue). A favorite of tourists and locals alike, Rockafeller's has been serving up some of the best and freshest seafood since the restaurant opened its doors in 1989. Located along the waterfront of Rudee Inlet, Rockafeller's specializes in Southern-inspired dishes served in a cozy and casual atmosphere. Although Rockafeller's menu features terrific salads and steaks, the seafood is the real attraction: local fishermen haul their catch to the restaurant daily. Recommended entree: Crab, Shrimp, and Scallop Pasta Alfredo ($17.99).

2. Aldo's Ristorante (1860 Laskin Road). An Italian restaurant may seem like an anomaly in Virginia Beach, but Aldo's has a reputation for being one of the best restaurants in the city. Hey, you can't eat seafood all the time! Even though the lush decor may make Aldo's look too upscale for the entire family, the restaurant has a wonderfully warm atmosphere. Aldo's serves all of your Italian favorites, like fettucine alfredo and linguine with clam sauce, as well as several signature dishes. Recommended entree: Shrimp Gorgonzola with Angel Hair Pasta ($18.99).

3. Icehouse Restaurant (604 Norfolk Avenue). The Icehouse has been a Virginia Beach landmark since 1910. Considering the here-today-gone-tomorrow nature of the restaurant industry, any place that has been pleasing customers for close to a century must be doing something right! The Icehouse features good old-fashioned favorites, from meatloaf to pork chops. Lunch and dinner specials are offered daily. Recommended entree: Prime Rib Stroganoff ($11.99).

4. Mary's Restaurant (616 Virginia Beach Blvd.). Mary's is a no-nonsense, no frills old-school diner. It is also a favorite among locals and one of Virginia Beach's best kept secrets. Avoid the tourist traps and head to Mary's if you're looking for good food, fast service, and great prices. Mary's also has a kid's menu, making it the perfect place to take the whole family for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Recommended entree: Chicken Fried Steak ($6.50).

5. Angelo's By the Sea (3809 Atlantic Avenue). Angelo's is another fine Virginia Beach restaurant specializing in Italian cuisine, and like most authentic Italian restaurants, Angelo's exudes a warm feeling of friendliness and family. Angelo's is the type of place where memories are made, as well as delectable dishes. Recommended entree: Chicken Parmigiana ($12.99).

Whether you are looking for fresh seafood, classic American diner cuisine, or traditional Italian fare, these five restaurants are can't-miss destinations for an unforgettable meal in Virginia City.

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