Off The Hook Restaurant

Chesapeake, VA

Type/ Restaurant
Time/ 2018-Present
Client/ Private
Status/ Construction Drawings


Off the Hook is an award-winning seafood restaurant with two locations in Chesapeake and Norfolk, Virginia. This project centers around a third site, also located in Chesapeake, and is where the current restaurant in Chesapeake will be relocated.  It involves  converting an existing, free standing building into two restaurants with a contemporary look.  One major twist is that both restaurants will be  served by one central kitchen.  The restaurant facing the main road will be a fine dining chop house: which is the main branding theme for Off the Hook. On the other side of the building, close to the canal,  is a more informal dining area that will cater to people from both the land and water seeking to relax and enjoy their next meal.

Some of the challenges of the design include creating a new image for the actual building, and keeping that building design consistent while promoting two different style restaurants.

Off the Hook Sketch
Off the Hook Layout
Off the Hook Mockup

For the exterior design, two glass towers, are created at the corners of each side of the building facing Battlefield Blvd. The towers will represent lanterns at night to create a strong visual presence. The space between the two towers is clad with aluminum siding that has a wood look. The roofs of both towers and the area between them are sloped in different directions to create a dynamic look. The complicated roof of the existing building is simplified and becomes a backdrop for the new towers.

The design creates an outdoor dining experience by allowing for a series of outdoor decks and porches that wrap around part of the building’s perimeter. The interior design of the dining spaces incorporates a family of similar materials that include wood, metal, tile, etc., but each design element differentiates themselves with distinct details and articulations.

The design inside the informal dining section creates a feeling that is more casual and relaxed. The beach-like atmosphere is enhanced by the large windows that provide a panoramic view of the canal, as well as the indoor-outdoor bar separated by a garage door and a stage for music performances. On the opposite side of the building, the formal dining design continues using the family of materials in its own style.   As you walk in, you are given a choice to head left to the space intended for lounging, drinking or even business meetings.  To the right, you can go to the bar that sits inside the beautiful and open two-story bar. Through the lounge, you can access the dining area that holds views of the canal and showcases the vast array of wines to choose from.

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Off the Hook Exterior Mockup
Off the Hook Interior Mockup
Off the Hook Mockup
Off the Hook Mockup
Off the Hook Mockup
Off the Hook Mockup
Off the Hook Mockup
Off the Hook Mockup

Wendy & Pete Carolino

"We wanted to do a new addition, a complete outdoor living space and were not sure where to start. GARC was able to take our vision and turn it into a reality. The time and attention to details, listening to our requests and investment through project completion was beyond impressive. We love our beautiful outdoor living area and it has become the center of many family gatherings!"