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Whether you're proud of your hipster lifestyle, you're in denial, or you just love an interesting place for a weekend drink, Norfolk has some quirky spots that fit the bill. From fresh takes on classic cuisine and cocktails to bizarre decor, these businesses present the finest in hipster style with or without restraint. Don't pass on them just because of the stigma; embrace the eclectic things they have to offer. Here are a few hipster locales to visit where you just might love what you find. 1. Tortilla West Located at 508 Orapax Street, Tortilla West serves up some of the area's best hipster-inspired Tex-Mex. If you're looking for a drink after work, a light lunch, or a dinner entree, this establishment has it all. Tuesdays are the famed Taco Tuesday extravaganzas, where you can pick up a taco for a mere 75 cents. For lunch, try a lighter plate, such as the three berry, mango, red pepper, and arugula salad topped with shrimp, steak, or chicken. If you're looking for a nightcap, finish it off with one of Tortilla West's house-made margaritas or a beer from the extensive list. No matter what you choose, you're bound to leave satisfied. Plus, it's a hidden gem, even for the hipster crowd. more 2. The Ten Top Some hipsters live a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. At the Ten Top you have your choice of vegan or veggie dishes as well as a full breadth of meals to satisfy your inner carnivore. The Ten Top features tons of sandwiches and entrees, as well as daily dinner specials and soups du jour. If you opt for a sandwich, you can go with something familiar like the pulled pork or extravagant like the baked caprese. In all, the Ten Top has 16 sandwiches that offer a blissful escape from the generic fare offered by chain restaurants. The Ten Top is open everyday but Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m, and you can find it at 748 Shirley Avenue. 3. Model Citizen at Saint Germain This downtown pop-up bar at 255 Granby Street has quickly become in institution in Norfolk. Open only on Mondays from 7 p.m. to midnight, the Model Citizen has guest bartenders and chefs that craft some of the most original ideas in the city. It's hard to say just what you'll get when you arrive, but expect a handful of new drinks each week. Gifted chefs also prepare a one-time-only menu that will make your taste buds explode with flavor. If you can't decide what to do on a Monday, or you just want to get out of the house on a weekday, the Model Citizen is a welcome retreat. Although there are only three spots on this list, the Norfolk area is home to many of the best hipster hangouts in Virginia and on the East Coast. Don't fear the hipster reputation. Dive in head first, and you'll find that knowing bands before everyone, dressing like a 1950s professor, and loving old-time movies might have its perks. Image Via Pixabay

While many people often say a visit to Paris, a pizza in Rome, or swimming with dolphins are some of the must-do events before you die, don't neglect things in your own backyard. If you're a Virginia resident, you might not even know about the delicious food, beautiful landscapes, and other things that exist in the Old Dominion. Creating a bucket list is a hard thing to do, but make sure you don't skip out on these places throughout Virginia. 1. Yorktown Battlefield Even if you aren't a history buff, there's something remarkable about seeing where your country finally forged its independence. At the Yorktown Battlefield, you'll get to see where so many brave soldiers fought for the right to live free of British oppression. A museum and plaques provide additional information about the battle, and there's something magical about standing right where the Revolutionary War ended. more 2. Breaks Interstate Park The Grand Canyon is almost certainly on your list of things to see, but don't forget about Breaks Interstate Park, also known as the Grand Canyon of the East. Located within the majestic confines of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, this canyon stretches over 5 miles and features stunning views into a 1,600-foot-deep canyon. If you visit in the fall, the area becomes illuminated with vibrant foliage. With more than 25 miles of hiking trails, you'll won't ever have to settle for a subpar view. 3. The Island Creamery If you have a soft spot for ice cream, you simply can't perish from the Earth without trying one of the Island Creamery's 36 flavors. Rated the No. 1 ice cream parlor in the country by Tripadvisor, this shop features classic flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, yet it also has adventurous tastes for the curious. Signature scoops include Marsh Mud, Snickers Cheesecake, and Iced Nirvana. You might have to fight the lines during the summer tourist season, but it's well worth the wait, even if it means you have to hit the gym for an extra hour. Plus, you can enjoy the superb views from Chincoteague Island. 4. Arlington National Cemetery Walking through Arlington National Cemetery is a humbling experience. You can walk among the tombstones of some of the servicemen and women who gave their lives to protect the country they loved, as well as visit more than 30 monuments commemorating their ultimate sacrifice. Other life-changing sights include the graves of John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert and the Tomb of the Unknowns. It's also well worth it to see the Changing of the Guards. With so many sites to visit in Virginia, you might need several lifetimes to see it all. However, with some planning and a bit of motivation, it's definitely possible to see these four places within the course of a few months. They'll stick with you forever, and you'll have no qualms or regrets when your time is up.   Image via Flickr by Ken Lund

Although Toyota doesn't have the same collector's appeal as some of the classic American or European cars, it does have a number of models over the years that are worthy of being put in the discussion. However, the reasoning behind the lack of inclusion into the collector car market isn't necessarily a bad thing. When other automakers were making huge gas-guzzling cars, Toyota was building economical vehicles and working on efficient manufacturing practices. Even with this commitment, it's still churned out its fair share of exotic vehicles. Here are just a few you wished you owned. 1. 1967 "Open-Top" Toyota 2000GT Whether you love the over-the-top gadgets, the villains, the cars, or the women, there's something about James Bond that embodies adventure. In 1967's "You Only Live Twice," Bond, played by Sean Connery, is only seconds from assassination until the famed 2000GT, piloted by the Bond Girl Aki, comes by to save him. She then leads the henchmen on a chase, until they're picked off the road by a helicopter with a giant magnet. Although the 2000GT was available in Japan as a hardtop, the convertible, or open-top, version was never released to the public and only two are still in existence. Aside from fetching a record $1.15 million dollar price at auction, this car is also said to be the most recent Bond, Daniel Craig's, favorite. more 2. 1977 FJ40 Land Cruiser Although the FJ40 was manufactured from 1960 to 1984, the 1977 version receives accolades for its looks and superior off-road capability. The hardest part of finding this one, whether at an auction or through a private seller, is that most are in such poor condition that even a full rehab will never recoup the money for the owner. However, if you can find someone who's willing to do the work you can find one of these models like new, although it'll cost you a pretty penny. Although blue book values peg the value of the FJ40 somewhere between $5,000 and $25,000, many have started to fetch nearly $100,000. With such a premium on the 1977 version of the Land Cruiser, it's still unknown whether it's a fad, but you may want to purchase one now or wait a few years to see if the demand cools. 3. 1992-1998 Supra Mark IV It's almost impossible to narrow the most collectible model of the Supra Mark IV to a single year, so this list includes them all. During this time span, fewer than 8,000 of these models were produced, and many of them never made their way to America. What makes this version special is not only its superior looks, but also its 320-horsepower twin-turbo V6. With this monster under the hood, the Supra ramped up to 60 mph in around 5 seconds, depending on the model year. Prices on this beast vary, but the one from "The Fast and the Furious" sold for $185,000 in 2015. You'll need some serious cash to take one of these Toyotas home with you, but once you get behind the wheel, you'll understand why they're so coveted. So pinch your pennies or cross your fingers that you find a bargain. You'll need luck on your side.   Image via Flickr by Sicnag

Toyota introduced its infotainment system, Entune, in the 2012 Toyota Prius v. Since then, Toyota has continued to improve the system, making it more useful for drivers. It has a lot to offer and comes standard on a number of Toyota vehicles. Basic Features Entune is an integrated telematics and multimedia navigation system that runs through the central display touchscreen. It uses satellite data to offer real-time sports scores, weather, stocks, and traffic information. The system can also pull location data based on satellite positioning to provide local fuel prices, allowing you to find the cheapest station and save money at the pump. To access this data, you must have a current subscription to SirusXM satellite radio. more Smartphone Integration Another major selling point of the Entune system is that if offers smartphone integration. To connect your phone, start by downloading the Entune app from the App Store (iOS), Google Play Store (Android), or Blackberry World. The app is free, but its use requires a cellular data plan. When connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, Entune provides access to various apps and a web browser. You can also stream music through your phone's data connection from music services including XM Satellite Radio, iHeartRadio, and Pandora. Another benefit of syncing your phone with the system is that you can then use the voice-activated controls to make calls or do other tasks. It also allows you to personalize the system for your specific needs and access Toyota Safety Connect. This additional system within Entune gives both the driver and passengers access to vehicle safety information, collision information, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle tracking, remote diagnostics, and communications. Navigation Another extra feature that you can add to the Entune Suite is the Scout GPS Link app. It is available on Toyota vehicles model year 2016 and newer and includes Entune Audio Plus. This system uses the data plan through your Android phone or iPhone to provide turn-by-turn directions and map information on the touchscreen display. With this helpful system, you don't have to punch in the address on your phone or try to view the map on a small screen. It's easier to use and see on the display within the dashboard. Siri Eyes Free Distracted driving is very dangerous, and taking your eyes off the road even for a second to glance at your phone can lead to an accident. Siri Eyes Free helps prevent you from looking down at the phone screen because it offers voice-controlled options like sending a text, having one read to you, or making a phone call. This service requires a connected iPhone that is compatible with the system. Once you connect your phone, press the button on the steering wheel with a picture of a phone off the hook. Hold the button until you hear the familiar beep and tell Siri exactly what you need. Entune makes driving safer and more enjoyable with access to all different types of information and tools. Image via Flickr by Brian Bilek

The advent of smartphone technology has brought about a revolution that's changed every aspect of your life. With this sudden influx of convenience, it's only natural that you should think about using your smartphone in even more ways. One of these aspects is driving. With a number of apps, you'll make your drive not only easier, but also less stressful. Here are just a few of the latest apps that will turn your taxing commute into sheer bliss. 1. GasBuddy Have you ever purchased gas only to find another station down the road selling it for a dime cheaper? If so, you aren't alone. Luckily, GasBuddy takes care of this frustrating little problem. Using user-uploaded data, GasBuddy shows a list and map of every gas station in your area. From there, you can sort them by company, proximity, and price. GasBuddy also offers prizes and incentives for users that send their updates, making it a win-win whether you're a contributor or just a user. GasBuddy is a free app, and it's available on both Android and iOS. more 2. Trapster If you have a bit of lead foot, Trapster is a free app that helps you avoid speed traps along your journey. Using your phone's built-in speedometer, it shows you how fast you're going, the actual speed limit, and any places where state troopers and local cops are looking to bust you for speeding. It also has information on red light cameras and speed cameras. For traversing unfamiliar territory, Trapster is a must-have. Currently, it's available for both iOS and Android platforms. 3. greenMeter For drivers willing to fork out the $5.99 for this app, greenMeter is essential in building your driving efficiency. Using an easy-to-read meter, it shows you just how much your acceleration is killing your fuel economy. From there, it shows you your energy cost based on fuel consumption, money, and carbon emissions. This app is only available on iOS-based systems. 4. RepairPal In an ideal world, RepairPal wouldn't have much use, but with some mechanics looking to rip you off, it provides great insight into the world of car repairs. By logging into the app and inputting information about your car, RepairPal provides you with the average cost of the repairs in your area. Once you have a general idea of how much your repair costs, you won't have to worry about getting taken to the cleaners. RepairPal is a free app, and it's available for both Android and iOS. 5. PlugShare PlugShare is perhaps the app of the future when it comes to driving apps, yet it's limited to a small market until electric vehicles become more popular. Even so, PlugShare is a mandatory app for those with an electric car, as it maps more than 40,000 charging stations across the country. If you've ever stressed about your car running out of juice, PlugShare puts your worries to rest. This app is free and available for iOS and Android. Even if you're a bit of a technological laggard, don't get left behind in the driving app world. Instead, download these apps and you'll never get left in the dust. Image via Flickr by JeepersMedia (CC BY 2.0)

When you're on a long road trip, cruise control can quickly become one of your favorite features of your car. Instead of having to keep your foot on the gas pedal for lengthy stretches of time, you can simply set a speed, and your system will maintain that speed until you tell it to do otherwise. Benefits of Cruise Control Not only does the cruise control system help you keep from getting a sore and tired foot and ankle, but also it can help you avoid getting speeding tickets. When you're out on the open road, it's easy to have a lead foot if there aren't a lot of other cars around. But cruise past a highway patrol officer and you may find yourself getting written up for speeding. When you lock in your speed with cruise control, you won't be as tempted to keep accelerating. more How It Works The actual buttons or knobs used to engage and use cruise control might look different between various vehicles, but the way the system functions is generally the same for all cars and trucks. After you turn on cruise control, you must then press the acceleration or set button to set your current speed as the speed at which you want to keep driving. Most systems also have two separate buttons for increasing and decreasing the speed so that you can go faster or slower without applying the brakes or pressing the gas. You can turn the system off completely to disengage cruise control, or you can tap the brake to start over. How Cruise Control Is Improving Cruise control has been a feature on cars for many years, but in the recent past, automobile manufacturers have been modifying the system to make it safer and more functional. Adaptive cruise control, one of the newest safety features on cars, also adds convenience. These cars include sensing technologies that monitor what is ahead of and around the vehicle on the road. When you engage the adaptive cruise control feature, the system uses the sensing technology to determine how close a car is to your front bumper. Before you can get too close, it automatically slows you down to help you stay a safe distance behind the car ahead. Some systems also have settings for short, medium, or long, allowing you to determine just how close you can get before it engages. Benefits of Adaptive Cruise Control Unlike regular cruise control, which requires you to constantly adjust your speed based on other drivers, adaptive cruise control does a lot of the monitoring for you. When it senses that you are coming up on a car in front of yours too quickly, it slowly applies the brakes to help slow your speed and keep you from getting too close. Give your legs a break, and use cruise control the next time you have a long drive. Image Via Pixabay

Every time you roll up to the gas station, you probably notice there are several gasoline choices for your car. Most often, you'll see regular, mid-grade, and premium, although several other ethanol/gasoline mixes are becoming more popular. The problem with these options is that few people know the difference between the grades of gas and aren't aware of which is right for their car. To make matters easier, here's a guide that will teach you everything you need to know about gas grades and which one is right for you. Regular Regular fuel, also known as 87 octane, is by far the most consumed gasoline grade in the United States. Before diving into this type of gas, you should know what the octane rating means. Very simply, this numerical rating measures a fuel's ability to resist engine knock, which is the product of improper combustion within the engine. The higher the number, the more impervious the engine is to misfiring. Because most cars newer cars don't have a problem with engine knock, regular gasoline is the cheapest way to fuel your car. In fact, most owner's manuals suggest regular as the preferred gasoline, as any higher octane levels don't truly make a difference to your vehicle's performance. more Mid-Grade Drivers used more than 12 billion gallons of gas in 2005, yet only 7 percent of this fuel was mid-grade, or 88, 89, or 90 octane. With that said, it's hard to find an exact reason to use this fuel. Only a handful of cars need mid-grade fuel, and most of these vehicles had a high-displacement eight-cylinder engine. Most users of mid-grade fuel are making a trade-off. If your owner's manual suggests premium gas, you can probably get away with using mid-grade. While you may lose a bit of power or performance when driving, you also stand to save hundreds of dollars at the pump each year. Unless you're a gearhead or a hardcore performance enthusiast, you probably won't even notice the difference. Premium One of the most common misconceptions about premium gasoline, or 91 and 92 octane, is that it provides a boost to performance or cleans your engine. Both of these aspects are erroneous. If you have a car that requires mid-grade or regular fuel, putting premium in the tank doesn't do anything more than waste money at the pump. However, cars that require premium fuel demand it for a reason, and putting in anything but premium can have catastrophic consequences. When you put nonpremium gasoline into a vehicle that requires premium-grade fuel, you'll experience a significant loss in performance. The most obvious sign will be that your car won't accelerate as quickly as it normally does. You may also notice the car shaking or vibrating when idling, as well as hesitating when switching gears. You'll also lose fuel efficiency, which negates the purchase of a cheaper grade of gasoline. When required, don't fill your car with anything less than premium. The next time you're at the pump, use this guide as a valuable resource to help you adopt better gas-buying habits. Your bank account and your car will both thank you. Image Via Pixabay

If you're looking for a new car, you usually have a list of features you want. However, there's one you may never have thought about: the drive system. Depending on the vehicle you want, it will come equipped with rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. If those choices seem like gibberish to you, here's a handy guide that will take you through the ins, the outs, the advantages, and the disadvantages of each. Once you understand them, you'll have a better idea of which one is right for you. Rear-Wheel Drive Although rear-wheel drive is becoming less common on new cars, it still provides a number of advantages over other drive systems. While early pickups and SUVs offered this as the sole option, today it's more often found on luxury cars and sports sedans. The reason this works on performance-based vehicles is that it provides better handling due to improved weight distribution. Because the front wheels don't have to do the work, it also allows for a finely tuned sports suspension. The only downfall of rear-wheel drive is that it provides poor traction in adverse weather conditions. more Front-Wheel Drive As the name implies, front-wheel drive is the polar opposite of rear-wheel drive, and excels where rear-wheel drive fails. A majority of cars that have two-wheel drive are front-wheel drive, as it extensively cuts costs for manufacturers. In addition, front-wheel drive gives better traction in rain, snow, or ice, This is because the engine's location is right above the tires, adding the weight needed for better grip. On some vehicles, front-wheel drive may also have supplemental components that direct some of the power to the rear wheels for even more grip. For drivers in a more diverse climate, front-wheel drive is the preferred option. Four-Wheel Drive While four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are often used interchangeably, there is a significant difference. Four-wheel drive vehicles are designed for improved handling in tough terrain, making off-roading far easier. By offering both a low and high gear, four-wheel drive vehicles deliver the power and torque necessary to make it over boulders and steep climbs. Many of these cars also have differentials which allow the axles to turn at different rates, making rough terrain easy to bypass. For the avid off-roader, four-wheel drive is a must, but average drivers will most likely never utilize many of these functions. All-Wheel Drive All-wheel drive is the most modern drive system. It isn't as efficient on off-road conditions as four-wheel drive, but it's definitely an advantage over two-wheel drive during rain or snow. The reason that it works so well is that it diverts power to each tire as needed, meaning you get only as much traction as you need. Not only does this provide adequate handling, but it also maximizes fuel economy. Today, most luxury vehicles come with standard all-wheel drive, while mid-range vehicles offer it as an option. Hopefully, this information makes it easier for you to understand what each of these systems do, and which one suits your needs. Now that you have it all figured out, you can check one more thing off your list.   Image via Flickr by Viktor_U_Cat

There are a number of safety features in newer vehicles designed to help you avoid locking your keys inside. Many have a system that won't allow the doors to lock when the keys are in the ignition. But even with these features, many people still accidentally find themselves outside the car without keys in hand. If you lock your keys in the car, follow these steps to get back on the road. Check Every Door Before you start digging around for tools to break into your car, be sure to check every door on the vehicle. It's possible that one of them is still unlocked, making it easy to climb in and grab the keys. Check the trunk too, because many cars offer access to the cabin through the trunk. Look for a strap or knob that you can pull to release the backseat and create a passageway into the car. But if all doors are locked and you can't get into the trunk, it's time to get resourceful. more Call for Help If you are a member of AAA or have other roadside assistance through your insurance provider, make a quick call to request help. Most roadside assistance providers have access to tools designed for getting into locked cars and can easily unlock the doors without damaging your vehicle. It may take some time for the person to arrive, but it's worth the wait if you don't have any other way to get into your car. Another option is to call a family member or friend who has access to a spare copy of your key. Keep one at home or work or give one to a friend who lives in your area so he or she can bail you out if you lock your keys in the car. Inflate the Area If you're a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional, you might have access to a blood pressure cuff. If not, it may be worth investing in a small inflatable device and keeping it in your purse or briefcase, since it allows you to get into the car without causing any damage. Simply slide the deflated cuff or inflatable through the gap near the window. As you slowly inflate it, it will create a gap that pushes the door away from the frame. From there, use a coat hanger or other long, skinny item to press the unlock button and open the door. Prevention First To prevent locking your keys in the car, make a habit of always checking for them before you press the lock button. If your car has a fob that locks the doors from the outside, only use that to lock the car so you know that you have it in hand. The odds are good that you will most likely lock your keys in your car at some point during your lifetime. But it doesn't have to ruin your whole day, especially if you have the tools available to get them back out. Image via Flickr by JoshBerglund19

Toyota is phasing out its Scion vehicles, but the sporty, sleek FR-S is getting a brand new name and is staying around for interested buyers. The 2017 Toyota GT is a flashy car that is attracting a lot of attention. Exterior Restyling It may look familiar to fans of the Scion model, but the Toyota GT, also known as the Toyota 86, has a few new features to show off. Toyota showcased the vehicle at the New York Auto Show earlier this year. It includes new exterior features like updated LED turn signals and headlamps, a modified bumper, and a grille that aligns with other vehicles in the Toyota lineup. On the rear of the car, you will notice a brand new look that includes a differently shaped bumper and LED tail lamps to complement the other LED lighting aspects on the front. The headlamps also incorporate the "86" logos, near the fenders, and a number of other elements throughout the interior and exterior stylings tie in the "86" theme. more Improved Handling No sports car is complete without improved driving features that make it more fun to take out on the road. The 2017 Toyota GT will have a four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine beneath its hood that is capable of producing 196 pound-feet of torque and 205 horsepower. This marks a slight increase in both categories over the previous output capability from the engine that was in the Scion. Toyota will pair this engine with a six-speed manual transmission as a standard feature, or buyers can choose to upgrade to a six-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission includes paddle shifters on the steering wheel. This car will also showcase an improved chassis and shock absorbers to provide a better transient response when out on the road. Sleek Interior Toyota designers also made some major improvements to the inside of the vehicle. "Grandlux" materials help create a soft and comfortable interior, which is quite an upgrade from the previously used plastics. The seats in the car also have a more stylish and softer feel, complemented by silver stitching. The steering wheel hub also shows off the name of the vehicle, 86. Showcase in Formula Drift Toyota also announced that it would feature the new 86 model in Formula Drift with drivers Ryan Tuerck and Ken Gushi defending Toyota's title in the 2015 Manufacturers' Championship. The event will also showcase the new features of the 2017 Toyota 86, with series champion Frederic Aasbo also appearing at Formula Drift. Interested buyers should expect to see this stylish new vehicle on dealership lots by fall 2016, so keep an eye out if you're looking to buy a new sports car. This 2017 Toyota 86 is a great option among those who want to drive something different but love the reliability and functionality of cars within the Toyota lineup. Be sure to make a plan to take one out for a test drive as soon as it becomes available in your area. Image via Flickr by Iawo

Although the James River and the Chesapeake Bay provide spectacular scenic views throughout Norfolk, they also offer a bountiful collection of seafood. With so many fishermen in the area, it's no surprise this city is home to several of the best seafood restaurants along the East Coast. The next time you have the hankering for some great ocean fare, try one of these restaurants near Norfolk. 1. 456 Fish If you're looking to get away from the traditional menu items offered at most seafood restaurants, give 456 Fish a try. Winner of the Best of Norfolk for its creative seafood concoctions, 456 Fish isn't your average eatery. When you get to your table, start with an appetizer such as fried calamari, sesame seared tuna sashimi, or if you can't decide, the chef's sampler. Main dishes include crab-stuffed jumbo flounder, skillet-seared Atlantic salmon, or cashew-encrusted mahi-mahi. The best part here is that no matter what you choose, it's delicious. Prices range from about $11 to $30 per person, making it affordable to boot. more 2. Captain Groovy's Grill & Raw Bar For the more laid-back experience, Captain Groovy's is a wharf-themed bar that provides casual seafood cuisine along with a bar and spacious patio. When it's nice out, dine on the patio for an unforgettable experience. On the menu, you'll find some seafood classics such as fish tacos, crab cakes, and fried shrimp, in addition to a number of seafood sandwiches. One item you don't want to miss is the Captain's Grand Burrito, which is a spinach tortilla stuffed with fresh tuna, onions, peppers, rice, beans, pepper jack cheese, salsa, and sour cream. For only $15, you may go into a food coma, but it's well worth the price. Other menu items range from about $10 to $25. 3. Freemason Abbey Restaurant Housed in a church built in 1873, Freemason Abbey Restaurant is one of the most interesting restaurant venues in Norfolk, if not the entire East Coast. Once you're seated, you'll enjoy looking at the stained glass and other decor that remains true to the building's original purpose. Each day, the restaurant features a catch of the day, which is freshly caught from the Chesapeake Bay. If you're looking for a three-course meal, start your journey with the famous She Crab Soup, which is a blend of lump crab meat and sherry. After you've gulped down every last drop of the soup, try the broiled seafood platter, which contains shrimp, scallops, mahi-mahi, and crab cakes, all garnished with rice and steamed asparagus. At that point, you probably won't have much room left in the tank, but if you want to push the issue, you simply have to try one of their delectable cheesecakes. Prices range from $10 for appetizers to $30 for entrées. Deciding on a single place for your seafood excursion is indeed a tall order, but if you can't focus on one selection, mark off a weekend or a few weekdays to start a full-out seafood tour. The only thing that may suffer is your waistline. Image Via Pixabay

You may think of Chesapeake, Virginia, primarily for things like water sports and seafood. It's certainly known for those things, but it has an appealing and growing wine industry. Whether you already have a well-developed understanding of excellent wine or want to start introducing your taste buds to great local wines, there are plenty of ways to do so in the area. General's Ridge Vineyard Located in Hague on an estate that boasts over a century of history, General's Ridge Vineyard features three tasting rooms. Furthermore, the staff is very knowledgeable about the wines they stock, so it's a good place to go if you're looking for a gift for someone who loves wine, or you want some ideas for beverages to put in your wine cooler. Many of the wines manufactured at this venue are award-winning. If you find one you really love, consider signing up for the Executive Wine Club, which gives you discounts on future purchases. more 2016 Chesapeake Virginia Wine Festival Taking place this year on October 8 at Chesapeake City Park, the 2016 Chesapeake Virginia Wine Festival offers unlimited tastings from over 20 state wineries. Sip your favorite selections by listening to live music, and be sure to check out the merchandise and food vendors, too. If you'd like to go to the festival with seven or more of your friends, festival organizers allow advance table registrations for parties of eight or more. Pungo Ridge Winery Located in Virginia Beach, this winery opened a tasting room in 2011 after creating 50 cases of blackberry wine. After that, the establishment stuck with the fruity theme and still focuses on making wines with local fruits. Pungo Ridge Winery is perpetually popular and had to close until June 4 due to extraordinary demand. If you'd like to plan a trip there once operations resume, keep in mind there's a $5 tasting fee, and each glass of wine is $7. Furthermore, if you'd like to get a souvenir wine glass to remember your tasting forever, it's also $7. Ingleside Vineyards One of the oldest wineries in the state, Ingleside Vineyards is a Colonial Beach establishment with a European-style courtyard where you can sit and sip wine while mingling with others or enjoying special events such as concerts. Furthermore, guests report the staff is very well-informed about the wines offered, and adds personal touches to each tasting session to make it interesting and interactive. Good Luck Cellars This Kilmarnock business entices visitors to drink wine in a laid-back setting on Fridays by giving them the chance to bring their own dinners and pair them with wines on the property's porch. Some of the products from this winery come from grapes that aren't widely grown in Virginia, allowing you to have somewhat of an exotic tasting experience here if desired. This list offers just a sampling of some standout establishments that are involved in the area's wine industry. Consider planning a trip to one or more of these businesses soon, so you can start or expand your list of places nearby to get wonderful wines. Photo by acme | Licensed under cc BY 2.0