Second Street American Bistro

Second Street American Bistro

115 Arthur Way, Newport News, VA 23602, United States

+1 757-234-4448

American restaurant, Bar, Bistro
(2284)
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About This Place

Located in the heart of Newport News, VA, Second Street American Bistro masterfully blends the warmth of a classic American restaurant with the vibrant energy of a bar and the cozy charm of a bistro. This is a place where comfort food meets culinary creativity, delivering an experience that is both heartwarming and exciting.

The menu is a celebration of bold, savory flavors and inventive twists on beloved favorites. Imagine sinking your teeth into their crispy, golden Onion Rings—perfectly seasoned and satisfyingly crunchy—or savoring the rich layers of their signature 2nd St's Lasagna, baked to bubbly perfection. For seafood lovers, the Thai Poppin Shrimp and Shrimp and Grits offer a beautifully balanced taste of spice and creaminess that delights the palate. If you crave something more robust, the Grilled Bistro Steak is herb-rubbed and cooked to tender perfection, complemented by a luscious demi-glace and seasonal vegetables.

What sets Second Street apart is its exceptional dedication to accommodating all diners, including those with gluten sensitivities. Their gluten-free offerings stand out with options like the GF Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza featuring pulled chicken confit and applewood smoked bacon on a delicate cauliflower crust, or the savory GF French Onion Soup with rich, caramelized onions and a perfect cheesy finish. The GF Baby Back Ribs, fall-off-the-bone tender and drenched in smoky BBQ sauce, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and vegetable slaw, are an absolute must-try.

The atmosphere here strikes a perfect balance—buzzing enough to feel alive and festive, yet intimate enough to feel like a home away from home. Whether you’re joining for a laid-back brunch or a lively dinner with friends, the inviting ambiance and genuinely friendly service elevate the experience. Reviewers frequently praise the attentive servers who strike the perfect chord between professionalism and warmth, like the unforgettable Chris and Dora who go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome and cared for.

Desserts are no afterthought at Second Street American Bistro. Indulgent choices like the colossal Carrot Cake or the tropical sweetness of the Pineapple Coconut Caramel Crisp offer the perfect finishing touch to a memorable meal. And for those who appreciate a well-crafted drink, their refreshing Sangria and expertly mixed Margaritas round out the bistro experience beautifully.

Customers describe their visits as flawless adventures in flavor and hospitality. One diner shares how the attentive staff made them feel truly valued, never hurried but always present exactly when needed, adding a deeply personal touch to their evening. Another highlights the consistently great food and vibrant atmosphere despite busy, bustling nights. It's clear that Second Street American Bistro isn't just serving meals—they are crafting moments, making every guest feel like part of their energetic yet welcoming community.

For those looking for a dining destination that offers more than just food—a place that delivers authentic American bistro fare with a creative flair, heartfelt service, and an atmosphere buzzing with warmth—Second Street American Bistro is a definitive must-visit in Newport News. Whether you're a local or just passing through, prepare to be delighted by a dining experience that lingers in your memories as much as it does on your taste buds.

Service options
Outdoor seating Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Fireplace Great beer selection Great cocktails Great coffee Great dessert Great tea selection Great wine list Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Happy-hour drinks Happy-hour food Healthy options Private dining room Small plates Spirits Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Quiet Romantic Trendy Upmarket
Crowd
Groups Locals Tourists
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday
    11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • John
    1 month ago

    I very rearly give 5* because lets face it, nobody's perfect. 2nd Street American Bistro earned the 5* tonight. The server was amazing! She let me eat but was right there when I needed her. She was attentive, professional, present, kind and above all treated me like a person and not money in the door. The experience here was flawless! Top it all off, the food was absolutely amazing. Timely served. Prepared masterfully. Temperature was great. It was delicious! I will definitely be back. The experience nade it so you want to come back and try everything on the menu at least once and take your favorite dish home. Job well done!

  • Stephanie Bell
    2 month ago

    It was my first time..the food was great! I would def go again. However, the service was a lil slow due to a large party, so it was understandable. But the atmosphere and food was def worth it. Try it!

  • Lyefree House
    2 month ago

    Came here for brunch and Chris greeted us immediately at the door in the most pleasant and welcoming way! I had to thank him personally! Then our server "Dora" was the best, she made our drinks to our liking, and explained the menu to a T! I will definitely be back and I will share my experience with everyone! Thank yall for a great brunch!! Great customer service and the vibe of the place is cool l, calm and just right! Drinks were great too. Thank you!

  • C.L. Marcolini
    2 month ago

    Loved this restaurant! It was busy...holiday seasons, parties, etc. The food was marvelous, our server Ethan was great, and while we were full from dinner, we took home 3 desserts for later! We had grilled bison meatloaf and shrimp and grits. Both were amazing! Highly recommend!

  • Jennifer Figueroa
    2 month ago

    Went for my spouses birthday and we were seated right away. Everyone was super friendly and we were checked on every time someone walked by. Very pleasant atmosphere! The food was delicious as well! We will definitely be coming back

  • Victoria Davis
    2 month ago

    I have so much respect and admiration for Second Street American Bistro in Newport News, Virginia. This restaurant has always been one of my absolute favorites, and I knew it would be the perfect choice for hosting my birthday brunch in their private dining room. Everything about this place is exceptional—from the warm and professional welcome the moment you walk in, to the stunning atmosphere that shows how much the owners care about their business. The food and drinks are consistently amazing, with seasonal options that showcase true creativity and culinary care. Whether it’s brunch, dinner, or dessert, I’ve never left without being impressed. And beyond the flavors, the customer service is always impeccable. I’m incredibly grateful for their team’s kindness and flexibility during my event—letting me arrive early for setup, answering every question with patience, and accommodating my timing with such grace. The personal touch of the staff coming to meet me, complimenting the room, and making me feel valued really stood out. I had a wonderful time, and the effort and dedication of the entire team didn’t go unnoticed. Second Street isn’t just a restaurant to me; it’s a place where thoughtful hospitality and unforgettable experiences come together. I’ll forever be a loyal customer, deeply appreciative of the hard work they put into making every visit special. Special thanks to Shannon, Scott, Chris and Ethan .

  • Jorge Planas
    3 month ago

    While visiting Newport News, Virginia, I was in the mood for a classic American bistro experience, and after checking a few different sources and reviews, I decided to give this local spot a try — and I’m glad I did. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere had a welcoming and laid-back charm. The dining area was clean, well-kept, and had a cozy, modern vibe with comfortable tables and chairs that made it easy to relax and enjoy the meal. I ordered the shrimp jambalaya, and it definitely hit the spot. The portion was generous, and you could tell the ingredients were fresh. The shrimp were cooked perfectly — tender and flavorful — and the dish had a good level of seasoning, just enough spice to bring out the flavors without overpowering. It had that balance of Southern heartiness with a bistro-style presentation. They also offer a limited but well-curated selection of local draft beers, which was a nice bonus for someone like me who enjoys trying regional brews. Service was another highlight — the staff was attentive, friendly, and everything came out on time without a hitch. Overall, this American Bistro is a solid choice if you’re looking for fresh, flavorful food and great service in a casual yet polished setting. I’d definitely come back.

  • Jeff
    3 month ago

    Tonight's dinner was @secondstnn! It was really tasty! Drink: Drunken Pumpkin Bird Dog Pumpkin Spice Whiskey, Chilled Apple Cider, Lemon juice, and Simple syrup I also had a Devil's Backbone Vienna Lager Apps: Duck Rangoons Corn, Duck Bacon, and Cream Cheese Stuffed Wontons with Sweet Thai Chili Sauce Smoked Gouda Grit Cakes Entrée: Grilled Bison Meatloaf Ground Bison, Beef, and Pork Meatloaf, Mashed Yukon Gold Potatoes, Vegetable du Jour (broccoli), and Demi Glace The drink was fall in a glass. It was so comforting and made me super happy. I highly recommend it. The duck rangoons... these we so duckin' good. They were perfect and wouldn't change a thing. The grit cakes were everything I wanted them to be. The meatloaf was so good and had a great crosshatch. Really good flavor, but simple. The demi-glace finished it perfectly. The atmosphere was great and the service was great as well! Our waiter, Allen, gave us great recommendations and provided great service. Other staff also checked in on us. I have no complaints whatsoever.

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