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The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery

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A historic brewpub and distillery in Hampton, VA, offering house-made beers & spirits, American-style bar food, and live entertainment.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

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VIP food and bar line and tables

The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic brewpub and distillery in Hampton, VA, offering house-made beers & spirits, American-style bar food, and live entertainment.

"Experience a super chill atmosphere in a gorgeous building while enjoying live entertainment and delicious brews."

TIP

Wednesday Fun Night

Visit on Wednesdays for cornhole tournaments and live bands for an extra dose of fun.

Weekday Visits for Calm

Consider weekdays for a potentially quieter experience and to avoid crowds or slower service.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Saturday 11:30AM

Cuisine

American Brewpub

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(757) 224-1216

Address

504 N King St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Building & Live Entertainment

Historic Building & Live Entertainment

Experience a vibrant atmosphere in a gorgeous historic building with live bands and entertainment.

Google Review+1
House-Made Brews & Spirits

House-Made Brews & Spirits

Savor a wide selection of delicious house-made beers and unique spirits, including their own brands.

Google Review
American-Style Bar Food Favorites

American-Style Bar Food Favorites

Indulge in phenomenal entrees and outstanding desserts, like the chocolate bread pudding and 'The GOAT' burger.

Google Review+1
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Wednesday Fun Night

Visit on Wednesdays for cornhole tournaments and live bands for an extra dose of fun.

Weekday Visits for Calm

Consider weekdays for a potentially quieter experience and to avoid crowds or slower service.

Unique Cocktail Creations

Try unique cocktails made with their own brand of spirits, like 'The Goat' burger.

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Tips

from all over the internet

Wednesday Fun Night

Visit on Wednesdays for cornhole tournaments and live bands for an extra dose of fun.

Weekday Visits for Calm

Consider weekdays for a potentially quieter experience and to avoid crowds or slower service.

Unique Cocktail Creations

Try unique cocktails made with their own brand of spirits, like 'The Goat' burger.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery is praised for its unique historic venue, live entertainment, and wide selection of house-made beers and spirits. While many enjoy the atmosphere and creative cocktails, some reviews mention slow service, particularly with larger groups, and inconsistent food quality, with occasional complaints about dishes being lukewarm or lacking flavor.

"Good atmosphere. Gouda steak mac and cheese was awesome. It can be very loud when the band is playing. You may need a light to see the menu at night. No smoke inside . Great! A decent size dance floor. There was a DJ when the band went on break, decent! Check it out!"

Mr. Ross

"First time going. I thought the food was good. The grilled cheese rib sandwich was good. I think it could have been better with a sauce to dip in for more flavor, otherwise the rib was tender and cheese was melted perfectly. The service was alright. The server did the best she could with about 20 people, but it did take some time."

Nicole Burnt

"Service was exceptional. sat at the bar. ordered GOAT, mushroom swiss, and Vanguard burgers. All were amazing but the GOAT was a standout with the blueberry jalepeno BBQ sauce. Also had red ale and stout. stout was on the sweeter side with plenty of chocolate and coffee notes. the red ale is balanced and smooth. Enjoyed the caiseal bourbon and the single malt whiskey . Will be back!"

Wisterialayne

What People Like

Historic building with a great atmosphere
Wide selection of house-made beer and spirits
Live music and entertainment

What People Dislike

Slow service during peak times or with large groups
Inconsistent food quality or temperature
Occasional issues with seating arrangements

Frequently Asked Questions

The Vanguard hosts live music, cornhole tournaments on Wednesdays, and is a popular venue for weddings and special occasions.

Browse Norfolk's Top Wedding Venues

Yes, The Vanguard is a brewpub and distillery, brewing its own beer and distilling its own vodka, gin, and whiskey.

Google Review

The 'GOAT' burger, chocolate bread pudding, chicken sandwich, and grilled shrimp salad are frequently mentioned.

Google Review+2

Weekdays may offer a quieter experience, as weekends and event nights can be quite lively and loud.

Google Review

The restaurant is housed in a historic building and is known for its 'super chill' atmosphere with live entertainment.

Google Review+1

While not explicitly stated, large groups might benefit from reservations. For regular dining, consider weekdays for potentially easier seating.

Google Review+1

Mentioned in

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theknot.com

Browse Norfolk's Top Wedding Venues

The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery is a banquet hall and restaurant hosting weddings in Hampton, VA. This stylish brewery is a great choice for a laid-back occasion, with everything needed for a celebr

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The Virginian-Pilot

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The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery, the region’s only brewstillery, occupies the Hampton Armory building near downtown Hampton, minutes from the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel.

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Best Town For A Weekend Getaway in Virginia

If so, the Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery deserves a spot on your itinerary. Sample some delicious brew and learn why it's one of the most popular downtown spots.

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The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Food Guide