Chincoteague is for Food Lovers
Back in August, Brady and I were craving a weekend at the beach.
We needed a break from alarm clocks and deadlines and our busy, all-consuming lives as twenty-somethings. We needed a change of pace, so we decided to mix it up. Instead of booking a room in a high-energy beach town, like we usually do, we reserved a campsite.
A relaxing weekend spent outdoors in the summer sun sounded like the perfect alternative. We said no to our favorite boardwalk that stretches for miles and the "no vacancy" high rises that populate the town. But, to four folding chairs around a campfire on Chincoteague Island, we said yes.
Joined by another couple and their rescue dog, Lita, we packed all of the camping essentials -- mostly hot dogs, s'mores and beer. With a full cooler, two tents and a bundle of blankets packed in the trunk, we were excited when we arrived at our KOA three hours later. But as we drove past an unexpected cluster of cute restaurants, I realized...
If Virginia is for lovers, then Chincoteague must be for food lovers.
As you may know from How to Plan Your Next Adventure Using Instagram, I'm usually one to do my research before exploring a new destination! But I truly had no idea that the island is such a foodie's paradise. Prepared with food to throw over the fire, none of us expected to be welcomed by a gourmet taco stand, a made-to-order donut truck or a beachy barbecue shack.
Where to Eat
Bettye's Burgers
Bettye's is an obvious stop for burgers, but before we headed back to the campsite for the night, Kayleigh ordered the Apple Bettye with french vanilla ice-cream for dessert. I stole a bite and had zero complaints -- except for not ordering one for myself.
Location: 6700 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague Island, VA
Pico Taqueria
Despite having so many options, it's not that surprising we chose to try Pico Taqueria for dinner. Tacos tend to be the unanimous decision among our friends. And to anyone who thinks that gourmet tacos and camping don't go together -- you're wrong!
The laid-back, environment had hammocks for lounging, plus bocce, corn hole and frisbees for tossing. The boys loved having a few backyard games to play while we shared chips + salsa, and waited for our food to be ready.
Pico Taqueria's motto is "you can put anything in a taco." But I, of course, ordered their most basic option and loved it. Appropriately named, the "Chincoteague Classic" had flavorful chicken, lettuce, pico de gallo, cotija cheese + creme fraiche. Kayleigh raved about the Mexican Street Corn, while the boys were a bit more adventurous and tried the soft-shell crab taco.
Location: 6382 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague, VA
Sandy Pony Donuts
So many combinations of flavored glazes and toppings! It took me entirely too long to decide on which donut I wanted because while my heart said, "I'll try one of each," my head said "you can only order one, choose wisely." Ultimately, I decided on the "Surfer Dude," a warm donut with honey glaze, cinnamon sugar and mini chocolate chips. My thoughts? 10/10. Few things in life are better than hot, fresh donuts.
Location: 6758 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague Island, VA
The Farmer's Daughter
Just as the name suggests, this is your stop for farm-fresh food straight from the shore. Although we didn't have time to try the cuisine, we were told the waffle fries and the shrimp po boy can't be beat!
Location: 6700 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague Island, VA
Woody's Beach BBQ
Next time I'm in Chincoteague, I want to eat at Woody's! The tropical themed dive is the perfect spot to have a cold one after a long day at the beach with friends. Plus, I love good BBQ.
And don't forget your camera! With details like a retro VW bus, hanging Hawaiian shirts and colorful adirondack chairs, you'll want to snap a photo -- or 10.
Location: 6700 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague Island, VA
Island Creamery
This local favorite serves small batch, handmade ice-cream. And tourists love it, too - so much that it's rated as Trip Advisor's #1 Ice Cream Parlor in the US!
Location: 6243 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague, VA
Have you ever been to Chincoteague? Which foodie destination would you choose?