About
Waterfront views, fresh seafood, juicy burgers, ice-cold drinks, and weekend entertainment make The Cove at Lake Anna a must on your Virginia getaway.
While the food and lake views are stellar, it’s the vibe that keeps folks returning. At the heart of this homey environment is owner Suzie Squiers, who opened The Cove in 2016. In this online article, she describes her decision to open the eatery as a leap of faith. “I wanted to be home with my kids and around family more. I was working so hard for other people, and it just made sense to make the career change. It was more like jumping off a cliff than anything.”
Squier's jump has landed well, with the restaurant being a hub for social events, holiday celebrations, and community service. The family-friendly atmosphere can also be attributed to Suzie’s family chipping in and to her calling her staff“The Cove Family.”
When you visit, you’ll feel this family-first love, where everyone is welcome, smiles are exchanged, and memories are made.
Whether you're vacationing with your boat or have a rental, the restaurant's dock makes it a go-to dining destination. Imagine docking, walking to the lower or upper level, and ordering top-notch food.
The Cove also operates a second concept, Pirates Cove, on the lower level. Here, a stage for live music, cornhole, and a sandy dining area make for an even more low-key visit.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot after visiting nearby Lake Anna State Park, or a bite while boating, you won’t be disappointed at The Cove!
Vibe
Set on the bank overlooking a cove of Lake Anna, this restaurant features two dining areas, both facing the water.
The lower space, known as Pirates Cove, is closest to the docks, making it a first pick for boaters. A sandy area with umbrella-covered tables awaits diners, while the covered bar area is a go-to when the sun is sweltering or at night when live entertainment heats things up.
The upstairs dining area is expansive with wood accents, casual seating, and nautical touches. Like the Pirates Cove, everyone has an unencumbered view of the water. Step out onto the deck, and the views become expansive, making al fresco dining under the teal-colored umbrellas memorable.
From its family-friendly daytime vibe to its adult-centric weekend nights with music, there’s something for every age and interest.
The Cove at Lake Anna: Menu & Drinks
The impressive appetizers could be combined for a tapas-style meal. Case in point are the Cannon Balls, featuring a dollop of mashed potatoes stuffed with bacon, chives, and cheese. These are breaded, then deep-fried to a golden brown and served with chipotle ranch. Combine that with the crab flatbread, fried pickles, and LKA nachos, and you’ll have a feast the whole family will enjoy.
Nothing says American classics like a juicy burger! From the standard to the creative, like the Sandbar Burger with an over-easy egg, bacon, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and red onion, your biggest challenge will be choosing!
The Sandwiches, Cold Wraps, and Tacos add a creative touch to the menu. Speaking of tacos, your choices are blackened mahi-mahi or shrimp in The Cove’s TNT sauce, both of which offer a spicy kick.
An entree with a twist on a comfort food classic is the Blackened Chicken Mac. This dish features diced blackened chicken over cavatappi pasta, tossed in the restaurant’s signature creamy, blended cheese sauce.
A seafood must-try is the Crab Cake Dinner, featuring 2 house-made jumbo lump crab cakes with Cajun remoulade sauce, jasmine rice, and veggies.
Meat lovers will enjoy the 12oz NY strip or the 14oz ribeye, cooked to your liking with your choice of two sides.
On the drink side, the full bar offers cold beer and craft cocktails at the upstairs location or the open setting in Pirates Cove.
All these facts and amenities add up to one conclusion: The Cove at Lake Anna is your dining hotspot.
Local Tips
- Pay with cash to avoid the 3% credit card fee.
- The kids’ menu makes The Cove family-friendly.
- For live music, karaoke, and DJ nights, check the website.
- The Cove is a first-come, first-served restaurant; plan accordingly.
