Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls operator at Oceanfront concerned about potential impact to nearby development.
By Sarah Okafor | The Commonwealth Wire
VIRGINIA BEACH — A restaurant owner at Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront is seeking answers about the potential demolition of the nearby Turtle Kay Resort, citing concerns about how such a development could affect his business investment.
Craig Leonard, who opened a Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls location at 7th Street and Atlantic Avenue in 2022, said he chose the location specifically because of the area’s potential for growth and development.
“We wanted to be at this end of the beach,” Leonard said, referring to the northern section of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront tourist district.
The Turtle Kay Resort sits across the street from Leonard’s restaurant location. While details about potential demolition plans remain unclear, the uncertainty has left area business owners questioning what changes may come to the 7th Street corridor.
Leonard’s concerns reflect broader questions about development along Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront, where aging properties often face redevelopment pressure as the city works to modernize its tourism infrastructure.
The Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls location represents Leonard’s investment in what he viewed as a promising section of the Oceanfront. The restaurant specializes in New England-style seafood, targeting both tourists visiting Virginia Beach and local residents.
Virginia Beach has seen significant development activity along its oceanfront in recent years, with several properties undergoing renovation or redevelopment to attract visitors and support the city’s tourism economy.
The 7th Street and Atlantic Avenue intersection sits in the heart of the resort area, making it a key location for both established businesses and potential new developments.
Business owners in the area have expressed interest in understanding the city’s long-term planning goals for the northern Oceanfront section, particularly as property values and development interest continue to increase.
The Turtle Kay Resort’s potential future remains uncertain, with no official announcements from property owners or Virginia Beach city officials about specific demolition plans or timelines.
For Leonard and other area business owners, clarity about neighboring property developments could help inform future business decisions and investments in the Oceanfront district.
Virginia Beach’s tourism industry continues to drive significant economic activity for the Hampton Roads region, making development decisions along the Oceanfront closely watched by both business owners and city officials.
Key Facts
- Craig Leonard opened Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls at 7th Street and Atlantic Avenue in Virginia Beach in 2022
- The Turtle Kay Resort sits across the street from Leonard’s restaurant location
- Leonard chose the location specifically for its development potential in the northern Oceanfront area
- No official announcements have been made about Turtle Kay Resort demolition plans
