Virginia ABC issues restaurant license to Magnolia & Marlin in Norfolk
Built World Norfolk, VA localLicense issued; Norfolk permit review and opening date still pending
Overview
Virginia's Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) issued a restaurant license to Magnolia & Marlin, a planned wine bar at 4201 Pleasant Ave. in Norfolk, on Sept. 10, 2026. The license permits alcohol sales but does not mean the restaurant is open or fully approved.
The restaurant's website describes it as a Southern-inspired dining room with live music, aimed at the East Beach and Ocean View community. No opening date has been announced. Norfolk requires a Conditional Use Permit for restaurants serving alcohol after 5 p.m.; the application costs about $1,080 and can take three months or more.
Why it matters
The license was granted for the wine bar.
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Related Media
MAGNOLIA & MARLIN - Updated September 2026 - 4201 Pleasant Ave, Norfolk, Virginia - Southern - Restaurant Reviews - Phone Number - Yelp
Magnolia & Marlin Wine Bar Restaurant - Norfolk, VA | OpenTable
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Organizations Involved
Timeline
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ABC license issued
Latest LicensingVirginia ABC issued a restaurant license to Magnolia & Marlin for 4201 Pleasant Ave., Norfolk.
Scenarios
Magnolia & Marlin opens by spring 2027
Discussed by: No formal analysis; typical restaurant openings take 3-6 months after licensing.
If city permits and construction proceed without delays, the wine bar could open within six months. The restaurant would announce an opening date on its website or social media, and begin service.
Opening delayed beyond summer 2027
Discussed by: Possible if city inspections, financing, or construction lag.
If permits stall or the build-out takes longer than expected, the restaurant may not open within a year. Delays could push the opening to late 2027 or indefinitely.
Norfolk CUP review delays opening
Discussed by: Norfolk zoning rules; liquorlicensecost.com guide to Norfolk licensing
Norfolk requires a Conditional Use Permit for restaurants serving alcohol after 5 p.m. The process includes a pre-application meeting, Civic League coordination, and Planning Commission review; it can take three months or more. If Magnolia & Marlin has not started it, the CUP could be the longest remaining hurdle before opening.