What makes an experience worth venturing to Virginia Beach’s oceanfront? The aroma of smooth espresso pairs well with a slice of delectable tiramisu, as the hub of the boardwalk bustles around the peace of a quiet coffee shop. VLove Coffee House, since its opening in the summer of 2022, has been rousing a positive general consensus from natives and visitors alike. Located on the corner of 26th and Atlantic Avenue, VLove has made it their mission to provide “great tasting, quality coffee to occasional drinkers and enthusiasts alike,” according to their website.
VLove is owned by Seda and Samet Yumusak, Turkish natives who met in Virginia Beach. This married couple also conveniently own Pirate’s Paradise Mini Golf and 21st Street Grill within a five block radius. These successful business owners set out to produce a similarly popular spot, with a completely different traditional cafe aesthetic. This shop is unlike any other in the Virginia Beach and Norfolk area.
The storefront is a glass oasis with ample seating. Floor-to-ceiling windows reflect natural light onto the white furniture and flooring, producing a comfortably bright space, perfect for studying or offering respite from blustery winter activities. Ironically, this coffee house is not particularly physically homey, however, the uber friendly baristas provide a welcoming smile and quick service. Its modern interior was definitely curated to be a calm and quiet environment that, most importantly, offers free WiFi.
The food menu at VLove is not extensive. However, they offer an all-day selection of breakfast and lunchtime sandwiches, desserts and locally sourced pastries that cover a range of diets and interests. There is something for everyone. As for drinks, the prices venture into a higher range, they are not significantly more expensive than a grande Starbucks latte, with twice the quality of ingredients and grounds. Additionally, VLove boasts nontraditional and creative flavors such as lavender, almond, strawberry or coconut. Any of their caffeinated drinks can be made hot or iced, and if coffee is not of interest, they do offer tea, lemonade and smoothies.
Whether the stress of finals lures you to off campus study sessions, or upcoming beach trips land you in the vicinity, you should definitely try out Virginia Beach’s newest coffee shop. VLove currently relies on street parking or one of many parking garages on the oceanfront. It is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, until 4 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays.
By Sasha Saxon
ansaxon@vwu.edu