Fuller's Raw Bar
If you ever find yourself cruising through Hampton, VA and craving some seriously satisfying seafood, Fuller's Raw Bar is one of those spots you’ll want to drop a pin on. Located right on 38 E Mellen St, this casual neighborhood joint knows how to serve up the kind of food that hits the spot—especially when you're in the mood for oysters or something hot off the steamer.
The vibe? Think divey in the best way. It's laid-back, got a little buzz from the moderate noise, and perfect for groups just looking to hang out, laugh loud, and dive into a pile of crab legs or a plate of golden, crispy fish and chips. They’ve got outdoor seating too, so when the weather plays nice, you can enjoy your seafood fix under open skies.
Let’s talk eats. Fuller's Raw Bar is known for its no-frills, flavor-packed dishes. The steamed shrimp are always fresh, and the raw oysters? Ice-cold and slurp-worthy. If you’re more into fried favorites, the fried oysters deliver that crunch factor while still keeping the juicy bite inside. And yeah, the crab legs—they're a must-try, especially when paired with their happy hour deals.
What makes this place stand out is how easy it is to settle in and just enjoy. No need to dress up or act fancy. It’s the kind of spot where the staff remembers your name if you come by often enough, and where a round of drinks and a mountain of seafood doesn’t break the bank.
Whether you're kicking back after work or just rolling through town on a chill day, Fuller's Raw Bar has that local gem energy that keeps people coming back for more.
Reviews
Like oysters as much as I do? If so, Fuller's is definitely the place for you. Raw, steamed, fried, Fuller's offers oysters from various surrounding bodies of water. I have had the steamed shrimp as well, which are tender, large, and tasty. Service is always quick and attentive. When in the Phoebus section of Hampton, check out Fuller's!!!
All-around a great restaurant in the Phoebus area of Hampton! Stopped in late afternoon on a Saturday before the dinner rush, but it's not an overly large restaurant and because the food is so good I can see it getting crowded! Very nice server who made sure we were taken care of. Food: I split the shrimp and mussels boil and it was delicious! So good and plenty of food for two! We even took some home. Can't wait to go back and try it more of their menu!
Everything was amazing--the food, the service, the atmosphere... I came with a group of friends (four of us total). Our server, Stephanie, was so fun. We started with the Monday shrimp+beer special, and the shrimp was the best we've had on our tour of the mid Atlantic coast so far. Stephanie also immediately recommended one of the daily specials (shrimp curry) which was indeed absolutely delicious. We also had grilled swordfish and scallop fried rice (both specials) and all of it was so good. We finished the meal by trying each of the desserts. Absolute do NOT skip the pineapple upside down cake. It is literally one of the best desserts we've ever had. We loved the food and the experience here! We're from Texas and Indiana but we would definitely come back.
I visited on a Sunday afternoon. I was initially worried it would be packed but thankfully they had seating available. The environment is causal but would also be a cute date night spot if you were feeling like dressing up. Rebecca F was super attentive & friendly. For drinks: I was debating on ordering the Lavender 75 or the Sal De Gusano. I went with the bartender's recommendation & ordered the Lavender 75. So grateful I did! It was tasty, the lavender flavor tasted natural & was not over powering. It was beautifully garnished with a lemon peel. For starters: I ordered a side Caesar salad. The salad was fresh & overall good but a little over-dressed, in my opinion. For meal: I ordered the Fish & Chips! They were buttery, flaky, & moist. Highly recommend the Lavender 75. I'll be back again for the drink & to try more of the menu!
This is a perfect seafood restaurant to go to before or after an event at the American Theatre near Hampton University. I had the shrimp basket, and an bananas & cream ice cream sandwich bar, all was delicious. Their oysters basket is also delicious and has French fries with it. I sat at the bar since I was alone and didn't need a table for which there was a line wait.