I have loved coming to Tommy's for years when I visit the Hampton area. This time did not disappoint. I was in the mood for fish and grits and although they did not have the combo on the menu the waitress instructed me how to order it. I only have two negative comments: 1) I asked for cheese and eggs and they just put the cheese on top of the eggs instead of cooking it together, and 2) I ordered biscuits and they were hard as hockey pucks. I asked the waitress about it and she said different cooks make them different ways so I ordered toast. I have had their biscuits many times before and they were delicious. Whoever the cook was on biscuit duty that day needs to not be chosen for that duty in the future. Overall, my experience was great as usual. All cash business, no credit. I was prepared! read more

Tommy's Restaurant - Fish and chips, hold the chips, add a side of grits. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

I had a very concerning experience at Tommy's. After being seated, the staff informed us that their refrigerator had broken down the previous evening--something that should have been disclosed prior to seating guests. I ordered chicken wings, and when they were served, I noticed visible blood on the bone and meat, suggesting they were either undercooked or not properly handled. This raises serious food safety concerns, especially in light of the earlier refrigeration issue. Shortly after eating, I began experiencing stomach discomfort, which made the situation even more alarming. Food safety is a basic expectation when dining out, and this experience fell well below acceptable standards. I hope management takes immediate steps to address both food handling practices and transparency with customers to prevent this from happening again. read more

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The sausage was incredibly overcooked and so were the scrambled eggs. The place was cash only. I had high hopes but it was difficult to eat. The shrimp and grits were pretty decent but on the salty side. read more

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What a pleasant country style food. All the food was well cooked and seasoned well everything was tasty and seasoned well. There was no wait but it was suggested we come early because it busy. The waitress was accommodating and pleasant. The ambiance wasn't anything special but it was just a basic diner style. The place definitely is a go to if ever in the hampton area. Fyi, its a cash only establishment so please come with cash or use the atm in the diner read more

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This joint has that classic diner vibe: hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, soups, burgers, and comfort food staples. It's definitely a popular spot and an assuring green flag since it's crowded. You can tell it is a local favorite. I went with a breakfast combo: eggs, sausage links, hash browns, pancakes and grits -- that homemade taste you don't get at chains, everything was cooked just right and filling. They also have a dessert case stocked with cakes and pies that are hard to resist. I went with the carrot cake and it was delicious. The restaurant has that old-school charm -- bustling atmosphere, energetic servers who keep the coffee flowing, and plates of food that hit the table fast and hot. Oh and if it's your birthday, everyone gets involved. For generous portions, prices are pretty reasonable. read more

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This was my first time here. Food was pretty good esp the pancakes -- was fluffy and flavorful. The batter/the pancake tasted slightly like funnel cakes lol. Service was good. The inside wasn't too big. They open from 0700-1500 everyday, I believe. I'd recommend going here but get in while you can bc it can get crowded with the compact space. Below I got the Tommy's combination breakfast w/ pancakes. Was definitely worth it. ***It's a CASH ONLY*** place so have those green papers ready, LOL. read more

Tommy's Restaurant - Pancake - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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Tommy's Restaurant - A True Hampton Roads Staple Tommy's is more than just a restaurant -- it's a Hampton Roads institution. This place has been around for as long as I can remember. I've been coming here since I was a little girl, and now I'm almost 60! Over the years, it's changed hands a few times, and if I'm not mistaken, there are new owners again. I love the fresh updates they're making -- new booths, tightened chairs, and an overall cleaner, more refreshed look. One of the best parts about Tommy's is that the new owners are hands-on. They come by your table to check in and make sure everything's to your liking. You'll notice some new faces among the waitstaff, especially more male servers now, which is a nice change. A few of the long-time waitresses are still there too, adding that familiar charm. The food? Always delicious. No matter when you come, there's usually a line -- I'd say 70-80% of the time. But that's because it's that good. Just a heads-up: they only take cash, but there's an ATM in the lobby for your convenience. Tommy's is located on Mercury Boulevard, just two doors down from Krispy Kreme near Big Bethel Road. The ambiance is like a cozy country café -- welcoming and friendly. You'll probably run into someone you know or haven't seen in a while. It really has that hometown, family-friendly vibe. The staff is always helpful, accommodating, and knowledgeable. One suggestion I'd love to see them consider is a shared service model where all waiters and waitresses work together to serve the entire dining room and share tips. I've seen it in other restaurants, and it creates such a smooth experience for the guests. Here are a few things I love about Tommy's: The coffee -- although it can be hit or miss, I personally love it (even if one of my sister-friends doesn't!). The buttered toast -- white or wheat, always served with a nice selection of jellies. The seafood breakfast -- you can order it as a breakfast or lunch meal depending on the sides that you choose. It's big, flavorful, and you'll likely have leftovers. The Tommy's Breakfast -- eggs, your choice of meat, grits or hash browns, and toast or pancakes. The variety -- omelets, steak and eggs, corned beef hash, seafood plates, oatmeal, cereal, and more. Kid-friendly and great for families. They even have a separate back room often used for large gatherings and meetings. If you're from out of town or just haven't been yet, do yourself a favor and stop by. The line moves quickly, and it's worth the wait. Tommy's has something for everyone -- it might just become one of your new favorite spots. Hope to see you there! read more

Tommy's Restaurant - On the new management new chairs, menus and waiters and waitresses - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Food was delicious, even my husband said so, and he's a harder sell! Lol Our waitress was wonderful - Very friendly, attentive, and helpful. The cashier was very friendly, as well. The diner was decorated nicely for the holidays. Overall, a relaxing diner feel, which I love. In the area? Check Them Out! read more

Tommy's Restaurant - Fried Flounder Platter - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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I have eaten here a few times but not since they reopened. This was my boyfriend's first time. He was eager to try it since I was raving so much about the place. The decor is typical of a diner. Reminds me of grandma's kitchen growing up. The kitchen is right there so you can see everything cooked to order. The menu is wonderful and I love the fact you can have breakfast, lunch and or diner food. Tommy's is a cash only establishment. It states that right on the front door. They also have an ATM in the lobby/waiting area. There are table and chairs and they do have a room for a banquet or large event.. Our server was an absolute gem. She was very attentive but not too overbearing. It was so hard to decide what to eat but I ended up choosing the "Breakfast from the grill" - 2 eggs, 2 bacon, 2 sausage and then two sides and french toast. I had no idea that it came with all of that! I'm very picky about my eggs and they were the perfect over medium. I also ordered brown gravy for my hashbrowns. My boyfriend ordered the 2 eggs with 2 country fried bone in pork chops. That also came with 1 side and toast or biscuit. You get very reasonable portions for the price. I would be surprised if someone didn't end up taking home left overs. We went during a weekday. If you go on a weekend I highly suggest you get there when it opens. The line forms out the door and the parking lot will be full. But it is worth the wait! The only reason I give 4 stars instead of 5 is because the floor is sticky but other than that - well exceeds standards. read more

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Been going here for a long time. I overlooked a lot for the quality grits and fast service. I'm used to not being able to use a credit card, and the fact the cooks can't poach an egg. I even knew that the fish they advertised as catfish was actually and Asian fish called swai, not USA catfish. My last straw last week, was being told that the $4 sweet tea I already purchased would cost me an additional $3 to take it to go. They said they just started this policy. I love my sweet tea but not for $7. This was just the nail in the coffin for me for this place and I'll be going to Shortys for the exact same breakfast with actual catfish and no extra to go cup fees. read more

This afternoon I went to Tommy's as i usually do when i come to that side of the water. I always order the catfish breakfast plate. Let me tell you that the hash browns were cold and old tasting. And i ordered scrambled eggs with cheddar cheese and there was no cheese and the eggs were hard and luke warm. The fish was wet and not crispy. Side bacon was not fresh and rubbery. The manager named Anna told me it of her mouth that the oil was not got that's why the fish is like that. Offered to take it off only if she takes my plate away and pay for something different. Never in life would i tell a customer that the oil wasn't hot. Also, the server was decent, but he told me that it's so busy that the child are not caring about what the did looks like right now. Like wth!!! Smdh This was a very horrible experience this time around. read more

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It's really a good place to eat. The day I went is extremely crowded but they manage to find a spot for you. They only take cash. They have a cash machine and it was down. I had to wait for someone to fix it. I guess the crowded room and only cash works for them. I'd like an update to return there. read more

We went on a Sunday for breakfast and had to wait about 30 minutes. Once in, our server acknowledged that service may be a bit slow due to being short-staffed. That ended up not being the case and we received our food in a reasonable amount of time. Everything was absolutely amazing! I got the fried catfish and it was perfectly seasoned. I can't think of anything that was wrong with our meal. read more

Tommy's Restaurant - Catfish with eggs, and grits with cheese - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Everyone was very nice and attentive. They all seemed to like their job. The food was good and freshly prepared. The ambiance was a little overwhelming to me, but that's what you get when you go to a place that serves great food by wonderful people. read more

Tommy's Restaurant - The half fried chicken. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

I always love little hometown soul food restaurants. This one does it to the maximum. The food is absolutely delicious. It is well cooked and it is served with a smile. Even though there was a line when we got here, we got in quickly, we were seated and assured that we would have our food soon --they ain't never lied!! Tommy's Restaurant is one of my favorites and I hope it's here for years to come. I have no complaints! read more

Sheeeeit! First off I want to give a shout out to my waitress Tiffany who was on point from the time we sat. (Sit on the right side to be served by her ) she was very nice, quick, efficient, fast, friendly and very attentive. And because my adhd forgot who made those waffles...just know he had chef bars . Service was fast and easy to order and the food was affordable. I highly recommend this place for anyone who is looking for a good breakfast. read more

Tommy's is a local classic! Highly recommend with the caveat that they only take cash! However the menu prices are so reasonable. The food here is always seasoned very well. I got the catfish and it hit every spot! Our server was Jasmine and she was amazing. Very attentive even though they were very busy! The atmosphere is chatty but cozy. People of all walks of life love to go to Tommy's and if you don't get there early there may be a line outside the door check them out if you're ever in Hampton! read more

Tommy's Restaurant - Fried Catfish with grits and eggs - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

I used to work here, and been coming here for almost 20 years. This place has been a staple in the community and has always been a great value with great service and amazing quick food. Like a hole in the wall but better. They always have a line, but it moves pretty quickly overall. oh and they are cash only, but do have an atm on site. i never used it, but im sure it has an outrageous fee.. I rank my decisions to eat somewhere again as: 1 star - if someone else buys it I won't eat it, I would rather go hungry. 2 star - if I'm hungry, no other options are open and someone buys it - I would consider eating it 3 star - I'm ok with eating it as long as someone else pays 4 star - I will eat again and pay for it and be a semi-regular customer 5 star - I will travel for good food and pay good money and be back on a regular basis and maybe even pay for yours just so we can go read more

Often dine in with my staff/ colleagues for am briefs. This particular morning decided to dine in alone and go over some contracts/ business on conference call while having my breakfast ! Time : 11ish a.m. No line no wait , however simply requested a table that seats four for privacy , then told where I could be seated because 4 seating is for four people. I then stated I will not be long again plenty of seating availability. Then was told you can sit there. Being a business owner, please be present ! Myself and staff will no longer be dining there. Food outstanding staff need to protect the business. Simple / reasonable requests with compliance goes a long way !! Single dining less time and gracious tip along with referrals can be lucrative.. Tip for today ! If there is no patrons there's no revenue !! Tommy "True Story " read more

What can I say? Stopped here for breakfast the other day. My eggs were runny, the hash browns were raw, the bacon was dripping with grease and I asked for dry toast and got buttered. Why the three stars? The service was phenomenal, plus where can you get a full breakfast with juice for $8.99?? read more

Tommy's Restaurant - not good! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

Very good food! Fast service. Reasonably priced. Large portions. Warm and Family friendly.

During a weekend trip to Newport News Tommy's was highly recommended by a few locals. I was looking for a country style breakfast with all of the fixing. This place was jammed packed and very nostalgic. It's like stepping back into the 90's. Expect to wait to be seated 15-20 and bring cash. They don't accept cards and they have a free ATM located inside the restaurant. I ordered corned beef hash, eggs, and toast. My husband ordered pancakes, bacon and eggs. It didn't wow me! The food didn't taste any different from what I cook at home. The workers were very pleasant and attentive for saying how packed it was. read more

I have in the past gone to this restaurant many times. I will NEVER be back to Tommy's. Today I had someone pick me up some food to-go it was the fish breakfast and there was a hair embedded in the batter of the fish. I had already eaten the eggs and grits and started to eat the fish. The hair couldn't even be pulled out of the breading. I asked for my money back and to be honest I would have been fine with half because I had eatten the eagg and grits. The owner first said that he couldn't see the hair. Then it was they don't give refunds after food has left the store. Then it was how did he know it wasn't my hair? I have naturally curly brown hair and this hair was black and straight. He was rude and told me to call the police because he was not giving me my money back. Kindness goes a long way and that man is not kind. There is no way for me to fry my own hair into food that came from their restaurant. I looked back on the line and not one person back there or the waitresses who were going behind the line had on a hair net. He wouldn't give the box back to me to take a picture or I would have taken one. I didn't think to take one before because I didn't know about the no refund policy especially because their was a hair in my food. read more

Great food, great service, frienly people. Never have to wait long to get your food, and refills! Highly recomend Sammy's Restaurant. Wish there was one in the Dembigh area. read more

Local Southern Cooking at its finest. A local favorite. Grits, corned beef hash, Fried Catfish. read more

Phenomenal breakfast diner. Get there early on a Saturday morning. It's good so they get packed quickly!

Been here probably 100 times, a go to breakfast place where food comes fast and is always consistent. Went yesterday after noon because I have seen too many eating fish with their breakfast. Not a fan for breakfast but ordered lunch flounder and clam strip. Fries and peas. Hush puppies also came with. Soo much food! Everything prepared well. Clams were perfectly cooked and large size. Flounder was a big fillet. Now I know why I see woman eating fish for breakfast. read more

I love the ambiance. Extremely relaxing, clean, family friendly inviting diner. They have a great variety of menu options for food. We didn't experience a long wait maybe 10 minutes but it was worth it. Let me tell you the grits, sweet potato pancakes, hotcakes, steak, French toast, fried cod are delicious. But don't limit yourself that too because this menu has everything. Even the butter toast they offer for the table is good. Awesome customer service. The young lady was amazing. Prompt, efficient and attentive. Must try spot and it will be your new breakfast spot. Prices are extremely reasonable. read more

Looks are sometimes deceiving... Stopped by here at lunchtime on a whim; we were going somewhere else nearby but Tommy's had a full parking lot. Walked in and place was full, one group ahead of us. Looking around, place seemed a little worn, not particularly cleaned or polished. However wait staff was friendly, quick and efficient. Menu had plenty of options, with emphasis on breakfast/brunch items. Wife had traditional 2 eggs, hash browns, bacon and pancakes while I had a gyro omelette. Service was prompt, food was excellent and prices were reasonable. Overall, place kind of reminds me of a traditional diner crossed with an ihop, but without the chain franchise aspect. All-in-all, a great value and we'll be back. read more

Cross between an IHOP and a Mom and Pop diner without the franchise. Fast service and good food at reasonable prices. Place was packed yet the servers were hopping and smiling. I got the Tommy's combo breakfast of two pancakes, bacon, hash browns, two eggs done over medium, and fried apples. Hubs had the healthier choice of gyro omelette. Yummy. Will be back. Btw they only take cash. read more

Tommy's Restaurant - Tommy's breakfast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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Tommy's is always a vibe and fast with great customer service. I love the catfish, eggs are always scrambled hard with cheese perfectly i just can't get enough. I love when I'm on this side!! read more

Tommy's gives you the best band for your buck! The sweet potato pancakes as well as the plain pancakes were amazing. Thank you for Overall great breakfast and great value! read more

Tommy's is a staple in the Newport News community. Anytime I go there is always a long line of people waiting to be seated and they're willing to wait because it's worth it. The food feels and tastes like family cooked jt and the the service is kind and genuine. This establishment is traditional and only accepts cash so be prepared to have some on hand or use the atm. read more

Tommy's Restaurant - Sweet Potato Short Stack - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Hampton, Virginia

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The best fried catfish I've ever had. I come here for their fried catfish and have been coming here for years to get it. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked, and delicious. I eat with grits and eggs. Seriously a dangerous combo. read more

Tommy's food is incredible. It is always crowded because its just that good. I know they like to keep it simple but if they added a virtual waitlist or a number system so you don't have to stay crammed in the narrow hallway while you wait it would be an even better experience. Lastly, please, please, please take credit!! You can add the fee to the bill, if need be, but cash is no longer convenient. I will always come for the food but nothing wrong with taking my experience up a notch! read more

Food wasn't something to write home about and it was just as hot inside as it was outside, service was great

Perfect home cooked breakfast spot. The food and customer service is awesome. However I'm giving 4 stars. The coffee is disgusting this was my second visit, so I know it's not how the coffee was made. And it's 2024 c'mon w the "cash only". No one wants to pay you in ATM FEES. Just get w the times please read more

They need to update and start taking different forms of payment. Also a remodel wouldn't hurt or even picking up the phone or online ordering would be great. I love their food but I seriously recommend these changes. read more

I took my child to Tommy's for their first experience there. I have always loved this place. They ordered breakfast after a short wait to get seated. The main entree came out without the side items or bread. My child ate all the meal and thought the hasbrowns were undercooked. The waitress finally brought out the fried apples which neither of us could eat. They had a funny taste. And after a little while the bread finally arrived. We were rushed to give our order, the meal came out in bits and my child never wants to go back. Now I had a lunch meal and it was very good, but I doubt I will take my child there ever again. read more

Tommy's is truly a great restaurant for taste, simplicity, and affordability! You get a wide variety menu, decent portion sizes, good flavor, cleanly, affordable, and great hospitality by staff. The ambiance of the restaurant is quite an old southern feel (most similar comparison Cracker Barrel) with a bit of a tighter spacing but nothing to deter you from going! It's always popping on the weekends so make sure you plan ahead! read more