Hampton Roads, VAMediterranean

Orapax has cooked Greek and Mediterranean plates in Norfolk's Chelsea neighborhood since 1966, a family restaurant Coastal Virginia Magazine has counted among the region's restaurants with staying power and awarded for its Greek cooking. The third generation has expanded the menu without losing the moussaka-and-pizza roots. Order the moussaka or a lamb plate with a Greek salad, and a slice of the pizza the regulars still swear by. A durable neighborhood room with a covered patio.

Azar's has run its Lebanese-Mediterranean kitchen in Virginia Beach since 1988, and Coastal Virginia Magazine's awards named the family business for its vegetarian cooking. The Hilltop location keeps a deli-and-market feel with a full sit-down menu. Order a mezze spread of hummus, tabbouleh and stuffed grape leaves, add the chicken tawook, and take home a container of the labneh. A longtime family spot that does the meatless dishes well.

Amber Lantern is a fine-dining Mediterranean room at a secluded marina on Bainbridge Point in Chesapeake, and Coastal Virginia Magazine's waterfront guide highlighted its Elizabeth River views. It is reachable by car, boat or even helicopter, and the setting is half the appeal. Order a Mediterranean-style seafood plate at sunset and a glass of wine on the water, and book ahead for a table by the windows. A destination for a waterfront dinner.