Codex Va is an absolute gem for anyone seeking an extraordinary farm-to-table dining experience. This was my very first time trying many of the food items, but I have to say I was thoroughly impressed. From the moment you step into the warm ambiance of the restaurant, you're enveloped in the atmosphere. Bright lights, kind faces and an airy vibe welcomed us to the dining experience.The menu, a masterpiece of creativity and innovation, ensured each plate tells a story of its own. Every dish is a canvas where flavors are harmoniously blended. The chef's attention to detail is evident in every bite, from the vibrant colors to the exquisite presentation.Pairing these delectable dishes with their carefully curated wine list elevates the dining experience. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a beer enthusiast, Codex Va offers something to complement every flavor profile. We might have tried atleast 3-4 of their red wines.But it's not just about the food and drinks; it's the entire experience. The attentive staff adds to the charm, providing impeccable service that makes you feel like a cherished guest. The cozy yet sophisticated ambiance invites you to linger, savoring each moment and every bite.In a world where farm-to-table has become a buzzword, Codex Va stands out as a shining example of what true culinary artistry and passion can achieve.
The experience was not bad, but not as good as I was expecting based on the reviews. The food did taste delicious and the portions were a good size, big even, so worth the value. The drinks were not great as most of it was ice. The atmosphere was okay, it was rather loud in the street, more so than I would have anticipated. They were also out of stock of a lot. Asked about the flounder, out of stock, asked for blue cheese stuffed olives in martini, they had, then when we got the drink they were out of stock so not in the drink, oysters out of stock, port, out of stock. The menu is small so not many options. We did decide to not do the 20% placed fee and give our own tip directly to the server. I would suggest takeout to try the food, but rather underwhelming in terms of service, drinks, atmosphere, and options.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 3
Tyler Hagberg
A cool hip neighborhood restaurant. Food is excellent. Portions are huge. The move might be to get an appetizer, a side, and one entree for two people to share. Menu is is varied. Everything I had was excellent. Vibe is relaxed but serious about the food. Beer list is excellent. Kobros coffee on Sunday brunch. One of Norfolk’s best restaurants, if not the best.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sticky Toffee Pudding, Burger
Patrick Geer
Above average service and cocktails. So many great food options to try and share in a big group as well. Burger and Short Rib dishes were cooked perfectly. Will definitely come back again.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Burger, Roasted Cauliflower
Andrew Leeming
We've been to Codex a couple times, but today was our first time for the Kobros Sunday brunch (a nearby coffee shop that makes top notch lattes).Can't say enough nice things about our experience -Service was friendly and quick, despite the place being full.Ambiance is awesome - beautiful interior with some brisk early spring air coming through the storefront's mesh screen.Kobros' Cascara/Citrus Zest craft latte was a unique delight. The zing from the orange was perfect for spring time. Good with oat or whole milk- we got one of each. Another hit in a long line from the dudes who simply don't miss.For food, I got corned beef hash, a favorite of mine. Codex came through with a great rendition - perfectly fried egg and generous chunks of beef. I'll be thinking about the mustard aioli for some time.Then the coup de grace - Cookie Crisp French Toast. This is an abomination that elicited uncontrollable laughter from my wife. Devilish. Disgusting. 10/10.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nina W
Such a sweet spot ? Came here for dinner before a concert with my friend and we were so pleased with the entire experience. The atmosphere is very intimate, great music, lovely people. The food was phenomenal. Every thing we tried was absolutely delicious. We had the Brussels to share and I had the flounder… chefs kiss ?. Crème Brûlée was amazing! The best I’ve ever had. Non alcoholic beverages were delicious and the bartender is a vibe. Totally recommend for a lovely dinner experience for almost any occasion!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Anitha
What a wonderful hidden gem in downtown Norfolk! Came here for an impromptu birthday dinner and it was very yummy! We had a fabulous waitress, too and service was excellent. We had oysters, frito misto (the tempura lemons are to die for), prosciutto and onion tart, flounder and their special for the night: soft shell crab- so yummy! We ended the night with their olive oil cake with lemon drizzle- can't go wrong here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tart
Max G
I ordered the charcoal chicken breast and a glass of orange wine (Grecanico). The food was excellent. Very very well seasoned, not overly fried or oily. Tasted very herbal and fresh. The wine was almost comparable to a rosé but with a slightly different note and after taste. Overall this place was perfect, honestly don't have anything negative to say. The staff are also very friendly and willing to have conversation. Will definitely return back when I'm in town.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Maxwell Gordon
I ordered the charcoal chicken breast and a glass of orange wine (Grecanico). The food was excellent. Very very well seasoned, not overly fried or oily. Tasted very herbal and fresh. The wine was almost comparable to a rosé but with a slightly different note and after taste. Overall this place was perfect, honestly don't have anything negative to say. The staff are also very friendly and willing to have conversation. Will definitely return back when I'm in town.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Emily Hall
Fantastic meal with family in town. Service was amazing, and food was even better. My two boys had their special for the night- a three course with salad/ spaghetti and meatballs/ cinnamon sugar bread pudding and they raved about it. I had the burger and sticky toffee pudding and both were amazinnggggg! Will be going back!
My wife and I finally made it here after living in the area for 2 years. We went for restaurant week and I must say the hype is justified. The Brussel sprouts were some of the best I’ve ever had, the charcoal chicken was so juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The sticky toffee pudding was a perfect way to finish it off. The real star and headliner was my wife’s order of Ricotta Gnudi which was some of the best food I think I’ve ever eaten. We will be back many times!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Carrots
Ally Hemphill
If you haven't been for Wednesday Burger night, you are missing out. Rotating Brussels are our fave app! The cherry lemonade is on the mocktail list but good with and without vodka and you can't go wrong with the cranberry
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Burger
Vy Barto
It was our first time at Codex and it was amazing. We made reservations before a show at Chrysler Hall. When we arrived, the restaurant was empty. We had a 5:30 reservation. But by the time we left, the restaurant was full. We started with the chicken liver tart, Brussels sprouts, and fresh oysters (from Lynnhaven). The tart had a little sweetness to it, which was deliciously different. The oysters were good. And the Brussels sprout in the nuoc chăm sauce was money! It was different than the typical Brussel sprouts you get from everywhere else. 2 of us got the duck breast, and 2 of us got the special pork chop off the night. Both dishes were delicious. All of our plates were cleaned. The pork chop was flavorful; and the duck breast cooked perfectly. We didn’t have dessert as we didn’t want to be late for the show. We would definitely come back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Duck Breast, Tart
Shirley Broom
We had the three course Italian meal a special. It included salad, pasta and dessert. It was great! We sat at the bar. Our service was exceptional which was the bartender for us.
Codex Va is an absolute gem for anyone seeking an extraordinary farm-to-table dining experience. This was my very first time trying many of the food items, but I have to say I was thoroughly impressed. From the moment you step into the warm ambiance of the restaurant, you're enveloped in the atmosphere. Bright lights, kind faces and an airy vibe welcomed us to the dining experience.The menu, a masterpiece of creativity and innovation, ensured each plate tells a story of its own. Every dish is a canvas where flavors are harmoniously blended. The chef's attention to detail is evident in every bite, from the vibrant colors to the exquisite presentation.Pairing these delectable dishes with their carefully curated wine list elevates the dining experience. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a beer enthusiast, Codex Va offers something to complement every flavor profile. We might have tried atleast 3-4 of their red wines.But it's not just about the food and drinks; it's the entire experience. The attentive staff adds to the charm, providing impeccable service that makes you feel like a cherished guest. The cozy yet sophisticated ambiance invites you to linger, savoring each moment and every bite.In a world where farm-to-table has become a buzzword, Codex Va stands out as a shining example of what true culinary artistry and passion can achieve.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Crabcake, Burger, Beet Salad, Ricotta Gnudi
The experience was not bad, but not as good as I was expecting based on the reviews. The food did taste delicious and the portions were a good size, big even, so worth the value. The drinks were not great as most of it was ice. The atmosphere was okay, it was rather loud in the street, more so than I would have anticipated. They were also out of stock of a lot. Asked about the flounder, out of stock, asked for blue cheese stuffed olives in martini, they had, then when we got the drink they were out of stock so not in the drink, oysters out of stock, port, out of stock. The menu is small so not many options. We did decide to not do the 20% placed fee and give our own tip directly to the server. I would suggest takeout to try the food, but rather underwhelming in terms of service, drinks, atmosphere, and options.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 3
A cool hip neighborhood restaurant. Food is excellent. Portions are huge. The move might be to get an appetizer, a side, and one entree for two people to share. Menu is is varied. Everything I had was excellent. Vibe is relaxed but serious about the food. Beer list is excellent. Kobros coffee on Sunday brunch. One of Norfolk’s best restaurants, if not the best.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sticky Toffee Pudding, Burger
Above average service and cocktails. So many great food options to try and share in a big group as well. Burger and Short Rib dishes were cooked perfectly. Will definitely come back again.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Burger, Roasted Cauliflower
We've been to Codex a couple times, but today was our first time for the Kobros Sunday brunch (a nearby coffee shop that makes top notch lattes).Can't say enough nice things about our experience -Service was friendly and quick, despite the place being full.Ambiance is awesome - beautiful interior with some brisk early spring air coming through the storefront's mesh screen.Kobros' Cascara/Citrus Zest craft latte was a unique delight. The zing from the orange was perfect for spring time. Good with oat or whole milk- we got one of each. Another hit in a long line from the dudes who simply don't miss.For food, I got corned beef hash, a favorite of mine. Codex came through with a great rendition - perfectly fried egg and generous chunks of beef. I'll be thinking about the mustard aioli for some time.Then the coup de grace - Cookie Crisp French Toast. This is an abomination that elicited uncontrollable laughter from my wife. Devilish. Disgusting. 10/10.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Such a sweet spot ? Came here for dinner before a concert with my friend and we were so pleased with the entire experience. The atmosphere is very intimate, great music, lovely people. The food was phenomenal. Every thing we tried was absolutely delicious. We had the Brussels to share and I had the flounder… chefs kiss ?. Crème Brûlée was amazing! The best I’ve ever had. Non alcoholic beverages were delicious and the bartender is a vibe. Totally recommend for a lovely dinner experience for almost any occasion!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
What a wonderful hidden gem in downtown Norfolk! Came here for an impromptu birthday dinner and it was very yummy! We had a fabulous waitress, too and service was excellent. We had oysters, frito misto (the tempura lemons are to die for), prosciutto and onion tart, flounder and their special for the night: soft shell crab- so yummy! We ended the night with their olive oil cake with lemon drizzle- can't go wrong here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tart
I ordered the charcoal chicken breast and a glass of orange wine (Grecanico). The food was excellent. Very very well seasoned, not overly fried or oily. Tasted very herbal and fresh. The wine was almost comparable to a rosé but with a slightly different note and after taste. Overall this place was perfect, honestly don't have anything negative to say. The staff are also very friendly and willing to have conversation. Will definitely return back when I'm in town.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I ordered the charcoal chicken breast and a glass of orange wine (Grecanico). The food was excellent. Very very well seasoned, not overly fried or oily. Tasted very herbal and fresh. The wine was almost comparable to a rosé but with a slightly different note and after taste. Overall this place was perfect, honestly don't have anything negative to say. The staff are also very friendly and willing to have conversation. Will definitely return back when I'm in town.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Fantastic meal with family in town. Service was amazing, and food was even better. My two boys had their special for the night- a three course with salad/ spaghetti and meatballs/ cinnamon sugar bread pudding and they raved about it. I had the burger and sticky toffee pudding and both were amazinnggggg! Will be going back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cinnamon Toast Crunch Bread Pudding, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Hamburger, Burger
Restaurantji Recommends
The sticky toffee pudding is
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
My wife and I finally made it here after living in the area for 2 years. We went for restaurant week and I must say the hype is justified. The Brussel sprouts were some of the best I’ve ever had, the charcoal chicken was so juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The sticky toffee pudding was a perfect way to finish it off. The real star and headliner was my wife’s order of Ricotta Gnudi which was some of the best food I think I’ve ever eaten. We will be back many times!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Carrots
If you haven't been for Wednesday Burger night, you are missing out. Rotating Brussels are our fave app! The cherry lemonade is on the mocktail list but good with and without vodka and you can't go wrong with the cranberry
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Burger
It was our first time at Codex and it was amazing. We made reservations before a show at Chrysler Hall. When we arrived, the restaurant was empty. We had a 5:30 reservation. But by the time we left, the restaurant was full. We started with the chicken liver tart, Brussels sprouts, and fresh oysters (from Lynnhaven). The tart had a little sweetness to it, which was deliciously different. The oysters were good. And the Brussels sprout in the nuoc chăm sauce was money! It was different than the typical Brussel sprouts you get from everywhere else. 2 of us got the duck breast, and 2 of us got the special pork chop off the night. Both dishes were delicious. All of our plates were cleaned. The pork chop was flavorful; and the duck breast cooked perfectly. We didn’t have dessert as we didn’t want to be late for the show. We would definitely come back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Duck Breast, Tart
We had the three course Italian meal a special. It included salad, pasta and dessert. It was great! We sat at the bar. Our service was exceptional which was the bartender for us.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5