VIRGINIA BEACH — After weathering time, fire, and hurricanes, Abbey Road Pub & Restaurant looks forward to celebrating its 35th year in Virginia Beach.
In 1982, owner Bill Dillon took the leap from waiter to restaurant owner of the popular fixture at the Oceanfront. After naming his restaurant after The Beatles’ album, Dillon didn’t foresee the impact the band’s legacy would have on his establishment.
Walking into Abbey Road, you are instantly surrounded by John, Paul, George, and Ringo. Albums, pictures, posters, and art line the walls while The Beatles and other rock bands of the era entertain diners from the recently updated sound system.
Musicians and bands such as Woodstock opener Richie Havens, James’ brother Livingston Taylor, and Ronee Blakely packed the place in the early years. Port Folio magazine praised the restaurant in 2008 stating: “Abbey Road is the best acoustic venue in Tidewater, offering the best and the most variety.” Patrons continue to enjoy live acoustic music five nights a week, including an open mic night every Tuesday.
Dillon did make a change after the early years when they had live music seven nights a week.
“From 1982 to 1992 I had time to decide if Abbey Road was going to be a music venue or a restaurant,” said Dillon. “In 1992, I decided on the restaurant first.”
With offerings ranging from customer favorites seafood jambalaya and prime rib, Abbey Road is a buy local, sustainable seafood restaurant. Having gone 100% smoke-free two years before it was required, both inside and on their patio, Dillon said he keeps up with customer wants and needs.
“Three years ago we had nine beers on tap. Now we have 42,” said Dillon. Coined 42 Drafts & Crafts on Tap, Dillon brings in local brews from all over Virginia. For the Bloody Mary connoisseur, Saturdays and Sundays boast a Bloody Mary bar with spices, mixes, pickled okra and green beans.
Food and Drink Offerings at Abbey Road (Courtesy of Abbey Road)
After expanding the building in 1998 when he scraped together everything he had, Dillon doubled the seats, expanded the dining patio area, and took ownership of the parking lot. Even after the power meter caught on fire in 2006, the original floors, booths, and wood were unharmed.
“The smoke did the most damage,” Dillon recalled. “It ruined the ceiling, duct work, it all had to be redone.”
The only hint that a fire even blazed to life eleven years ago shows in the warped album they have posted where the flames originated.
“We hold annual fundraising efforts for the fire department to thank them,” said Dillon. “Proceeds go to the fallen fighters and the honor guard.”
In addition to the support given to the Virginia Beach Fire Department, Dillon says they also hold events to raise money for the Samaritan House and the Virginia Beach SPCA. Showing love for the four-legged Virginia Beach community and their owners, their sidewalk cafe patio is dog-friendly and open year-round.
Serving a full menu until 1 a.m. a block from the beach, the years have been good to Dillon, the staff, and customers at Abbey Road.
To celebrate 35 years, Dillon is rolling back their prices to 1982 with happy hour on all 42 taps until 9 p.m on Sunday, Dec. 17. Live music begins at 3 p.m. with The Tiki Bar Band, followed by The Mike Proffitt Band at 7 p.m.
