Norfolk’s The Bird is the kind of cafe-bar hybrid that makes you cancel every other brunch plan the moment you’ve had your first plate and first sip.
From morning oat lattes to late-night cocktails and fries, this “breakfast classics meet craft drinks” hangout has quickly become the neighborhood’s favorite place to wake up slowly, get a little work done, or slide into a vibey evening with friends. ☕🥂🪶
How The Bird won Norfolk’s hearts
The Bird won locals over by leaning hard into a simple idea: create one space that can be your coffee shop, your brunch spot, and your cocktail lounge, all in the same day.
Guests show up early for cold brew and laptop time, drift into biscuit-and-egg bliss at brunch, then return after dark for espresso martinis and small plates, discovering that this bird really does know how to sing from sunrise to last call. 🐦✨
Word about this Colley Avenue cafe spread fast through Norfolk brunch lovers, ODU students, and neighborhood regulars.
People raved about fresh, flavorful plates like Chicken & Waffles, BYO Omelettes, and candied bacon, along with a drink menu that jumps from spritzers and mimosas to signature cocktails and smooth cold brew, all enjoyed in a bird-themed space full of natural light and easygoing counter service. 🍳🍹
Locals also love that The Bird is truly a neighborhood original—a locally owned business with an identity all its own, designed to feel playful, relaxed, and just a little bit stylish no matter when you stop in. 😍
Food Highlights
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The Bird Burger: Two turkey patties with melted white American cheese, caramelized onions, and “super sauce,” served as one of the stars of the dinner menu.
It’s a favorite for guests who want something hearty but a little lighter than beef. The combination of caramelized onions and house sauce gives it that juicy, sweet-savory richness people rave about. 🍔
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Chicken & Waffles: A golden-brown waffle topped with The Bird’s fried chicken thighs, served with home fries and your choice of hot honey or maple syrup. It satisfies every craving at once—crispy chicken, a soft waffle, and a sweet/spicy drizzle—making it an easy “must-order” for first-timers. 🧇🍗
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Candied Bacon: Thick strips of fatback bacon candied and seasoned, served with either apple cider vinegar or sriracha hot honey.
It’s beloved as both a starter and a side you absolutely don’t want to share, thanks to its sweet, salty, sticky, and slightly spicy profile that pairs beautifully with coffee or cocktails. 🥓🔥
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Breakfast Tacos: Street-style tortillas filled with egg, your choice of bacon or sausage, house corn bean salsa, avocado, and smoked gouda.
These tacos are often singled out as a go-to order thanks to their mix of soft eggs, smoky meat, bright salsa, and gooey cheese, making them a fun, handheld way to experience The Bird’s brunch game. 🌮
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BYO Omelette: A three-egg omelette where you pick your protein, cheese, and three toppings. It lets regulars dial in their perfect combo, from veggie-packed breakfasts to meat-and-cheese feasts, always served alongside some of Norfolk’s most talked-about home fries. 🥚🧀
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Biscuits and Gravy Sammie: Flaky biscuits smothered in rich, meaty gravy, sometimes snapped and posted by happy brunchers. It’s a comfort-food classic that draws in those who want something indulgent and Southern-leaning. 🥣
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Classic Chicken Sandwich: Classic fried chicken on a corn-based bun with arugula, pickled red onion, and house aioli. It’s popular among guests who want crunch, tang, and creamy richness in every bite.
It also shows off the kitchen’s knack for turning a simple fried chicken sandwich into something you remember long after lunch. 🥪
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Avocado Toast & Parfait: Toast points with avocado and house seasoning, or Greek yogurt topped with granola and berries. These lighter options are popular among guests looking for fresh, balanced fare without sacrificing flavor. 🥑🍓
Atmosphere
The Bird feels like a cozy cafe and vibey lounge rolled into one, with bright natural light by day and dimmer, music-filled energy by night.
Inside, you’ll find bird-themed decor, bar seating, small tables, and board games, creating an inviting space where people linger over chess, conversation, and another round of drinks. 🎶
Guests love the counter-service setup—order at the bar, seat yourself inside or out, grab your own water and essentials—because it keeps things relaxed, unfussy, and perfect for working, studying, or just hanging out.
By evening, the mood shifts into a casual cocktail-bar feel, with great music, friendly staff, and a room that’s busy but not overwhelming, making it just as good for a low-key date night as it is for catching up with friends. 🍸
Bottom Line
Visit The Bird for creative brunch plates, a turkey burger worth planning your day around, strong coffee, and fun cocktails.
Go for the chill, work-friendly mornings, stay for the dim, loungey evenings and board games.
Come hungry if you love fried chicken, home fries with a kick, and locally owned charm in every detail. 🐦💛
Address:
The Bird
4314 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA 23508
📞 (757) 937-0570
🕔 Mon 8 AM–2 PM, 5 PM–11 PM; Tue–Wed 8 AM–2 PM; Thu–Fri 8 AM–2 PM, 5 PM–11 PM; Sat–Sun 8 AM–11 PM