Sanctuary

4.3 (129 reviews )
$$
American restaurant
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in
+(8)

About Sanctuary

Sanctuary, located in Norfolk, VA, offers a unique taco experience with a divey, hipster vibe perfect for a casual night out. Their menu includes a variety of tacos, such as the Sanctuary Shell Taco and Taco Bowl, with many vegetarian options available. While the food may not be traditional Mexican, it's fresh and customizable, allowing customers to choose their protein and toppings. The atmosphere is laid-back, with friendly staff and a great selection of drinks, making it a go-to spot for affordable tacos and a quick drink. Overall, Sanctuary provides a fun and cozy setting for enjoying tasty tacos and a relaxed evening out.

Reviews (129) 4.3

  • Rebecca C.
    Dec 5,2024

    Location: This spot is in a good location for people who have children. I wouldn't recommend this place during the winter because indoor seating is limited. However, there's a playground just outside that can be utilized during the summer. Vibes: The Sanctuary definitely has its own vibe. It's very baresque, and there are a variety of alcoholic drinks you can choose from. It's dark inside with list of canvas art, that all have a similar look. It's not very busy during the day especially in the winter, so you can get away with eating inside. Food: As far as food goes, this place wasn't expensive at all. I ordered a taco bowl which was filling. I will say it's bar food and not anything compared to a Mexican restaurant taco. However, you're given a menu which you can choose what you want in your taco or bowl. This can be protein and toppings. The food was fresh, and that made it feel light and nutritious. It was missing some flavor was a little lackluster for seasoning. The hot sauce at the table were good, but not a personal favorite. Overall: This place had cheap food and alcohol. It will fill you up, and you can enjoy yourself and have a quick drink if you have kids. I would not come back, but it was a nice experience to try.

  • Starlite C.
    Oct 26,2024

    After a full day at the Stockley Gardens art festival, we stopped by Sanctuary in downtown Norfolk for some tacos, hoping to wrap up the day with a good snack. The place has a dive bar feel, which, while charming in its own way, wasn't exactly buzzing with the post-festival crowd--we were pretty much the only people there. It felt like a spot more geared toward the late-night scene than a place to grab bites after an art festival. As for the tacos, they were... fine, but definitely not the standout we'd hoped for. They reminded me of classic "white people taco night" tacos--simple, straightforward, and lacking the bold flavors you'd expect. The real highlight, though, was their selection of hot sauces, which took the tacos up a notch and made them worth it. Without those sauces, the flavors would've fallen pretty flat, so definitely check out their sauce options if you go. The staff, however, were truly excellent--attentive, friendly, and quick to make us feel welcome, even in the quieter afternoon setting. We also lucked out with the outdoor seating, which was perfect for enjoying the fall day and the lingering Indian summer. Between the attentive service and relaxed outdoor space, it was a pleasant spot to unwind, even if the food didn't quite steal the show.

  • Haley D.
    Oct 18,2024

    Lets TACO about it! (Like what I did there? ) I love Sanctuary and if it was appropriate, I would eat here every day! They have reasonably priced street tacos and great drinks. The vibe of the establishment is amazing! The workers are very nice and great to talk to. They get you your food extremely fast. I need to catch them on a day where they have the shrimp tacos but my favorite is the pulled chicken. 1000000/10 recommend.

  • Kristen T.
    Jul 3,2024

    Highly recommended if you're a taco fan! $4 tacos!? And they're super stuffed! I recommend the BBQ chicken tacos and make sure u add Cole slaw or at least get the slaw as a side... so good! Sanctuary is a local bar.. definitely gives neighborhood bar vibes. This is a small establishment but there is indoor and outdoor seating! The staff is super nice and attentive. There was a good mix of people here - all ages and race. I love a good culture mix wherever I go! I could come here alone after a long day for some me time or a group and enjoy myself either way. Good vibes! Will definitely be back!

  • Dan C.
    Jun 26,2024

    Very enjoyable grunge bar and taco stop this Tuesday for lunch and beers. We sat at the long and narrow bar. There are benches and parking out back. I went with two ground beef tacos and my wife had two taco bowls, one bean and one ground beef. Food was average, but I thoroughly enjoyed the vibe, the music and the four wide screen TVs, showing silent YouTube videos. My wife was not as impressed as I was with the venue, but this is my review and, hence, my rating. BTW: service was attentive and friendly.

  • Terrel W.
    Apr 8,2024

    If you're looking for some good service and most importantly tacos in a Tuesday. Sanctuary is the spot to go. I can only imagine what it's like here once the summer begins to hit. It's off the cut of Granby street. If you blink you will miss it. Definitely put in your gps so you don't miss it. Service was fast and the food and margarita were flavorful. I will definitely be back.

  • Geoff S.
    Mar 1,2024

    Hands down, no contest, the best dive in the city. On any given day at Sanctuary, you'll find an eclectic congregation of seasoned alcoholics, businessmen, navy folks, hipster weirdos and moms/dads out for a quick drink. The staff here is top notch and the vibes are always immaculate. I've since moved to California and I think about this bar at least three times a week. If you're looking to be a regular somewhere, this is the place to be. Grab some barbecue pork tacos and a few margs. Catch a movie, or chat with your bartender. Take a deep breath. You're home.

  • Sarena G.
    Oct 25,2023

    For a hole in the wall taco restaurant that I've never been to, I give it 5 stars! The owner is extremely involved with people dining in. He introduced himself and made sure we were happy and well taken care of. The vibe was chill, the bar tender was a sweet girl. Drinks were good. Their happy hour runs late wooohoooo! Until 8pm every day. We had the tacos and they were super yummy. The ONLY food they have is tacos. If you don't like that then this place isn't for you, but I love tacos and my boyfriend does too, so this was a great place for us. Cool vibes with great artwork, which I believe the owner does himself. Right in the middle of neon district. This place is HIDDEN. But I loved it. Easy and quick. There is a nice sized parking lot and friendly faces. Going to have a Halloween party and we will be attending woohoo! :)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are some popular dishes at Sanctuary?

    Sanctuary is known for its tacos, especially the BBQ chicken and pulled chicken tacos, which are highly recommended by regulars.

  • Are reservations required or can I walk in?

    Walk-ins are welcome at Sanctuary, making it easy to stop by for a quick bite or a drink without a reservation.

  • What dining options are available at Sanctuary?

    You can enjoy dine-in, takeout, or outdoor seating at Sanctuary, perfect for any dining preference.

  • What is the atmosphere like at Sanctuary?

    The vibe is casual and trendy, with a dive bar feel, making it a great spot to unwind, especially during happy hour.

  • Is there parking available at the restaurant?

    Yes, there is free parking available both in a lot and on the street, making it convenient for visitors.

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