Grain

Sky-High Vibes in the Heart of Downtown Norfolk

Grain is a stylish rooftop restaurant and bar perched atop The Main in downtown Norfolk. Just a short walk from the area’s major concert venues, it serves up elevated American cuisine in a trendy, open-air setting with sweeping city views. Known for its laid-back yet energetic vibe, Grain blends industrial-chic design with cozy lounge seating and a standout craft beer selection from its self-serve taps.

Why Concert-goers love it

Concert-goers love Grain for its unbeatable proximity to downtown music venues—you can grab dinner and drinks here and still make it to the show with time to spare. The atmosphere is lively without being too loud, making it ideal for both pre-show excitement and post-concert wind-downs. Service is typically quick and friendly, especially at the bar, and the rooftop setting offers a fun, celebratory vibe, rain or shine.

Who this Restaurant is great for

• Groups of friends looking for a social rooftop hangout
• Solo travelers grabbing a bite before catching their favorite artist
• Couples wanting a romantic view with craft cocktails
• Fans who want to keep the pre-show energy going
• Budget-conscious music fans who appreciate happy hour specials and shareable plates

What People Say

Diners rave about the rooftop ambiance and scenic views of the Elizabeth River and downtown skyline. The food wins praise for being consistently good with crowd-pleasers like flatbreads, burgers, and creative small plates. Many reviewers highlight the extensive beer selection and say it’s one of the best spots in Norfolk for casual drinks and people-watching. The live music nights and laid-back vibe also get high marks.

Areas for Improvement

While the rooftop setting is a major draw, it can get crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends or when there’s a big concert in town. Some guests note that the service can occasionally be a bit slow when it’s packed, and the indoor seating doesn’t quite match the rooftop's atmosphere.

The Bottom Line

For concert-goers seeking great food, skyline views, and a lively vibe just steps from Norfolk’s music venues, Grain hits all the right notes.