Looking for a special dining experience on the Naval Academy campus known as the Yard? The Alley is the place to go. Nestled in the beautiful and iconic Naval Academy Club (NAC), The Alley brings the history and flavor of the U.S. Naval Academy to vibrant life. Even before its founding, the space was home to a popular bowling alley that entertained officers when the NAC was an Officer’s Club in the early 1900s. Now its namesake carries on this time-honored tradition, extending the maritime welcome to locals and anyone visiting the Yard. Take a tour with us and experience this USNA treasure, known as one of the most unique restaurants in Annapolis!
Over the years, The Alley has evolved to accommodate the changing tastes of the times. Most recently, it received a large-scale renovation in 2009 that included comfortable club seating and the warm and cozy wood paneling of an upscale club. Gorgeous naval art gives this Annapolis eatery a maritime feel and accentuates the Chesapeake Bay-inspired dishes. It has a fun and quirky side too. When you first walk in, you’re greeted by the “observe foul line” light from the original bowling alley — and you know you’ll have a good time.
Related: Naval Academy Club History from a Fascinating Historian.
Executive Chef Randy Pyren and his team have worked tirelessly to uphold the award-winning tradition of this popular restaurant for the last five plus years, even through the uncertain days of the pandemic. The Alley has become synonymous with high-quality, locally sourced cuisine as delicious as it is beautiful, making it a must-eat destination on the Yard.
The Alley Restaurant is open to the public at certain times, typically Monday through Friday for lunch. It is well worth the visit, and you can find current hours on their website.
Related: The Naval Academy Club.
We encourage you to swing by this USNA restaurant if you’re taking a Naval Academy tour, taking in the sights of Annapolis, or even taking your midshipman out for a bite. It’s an unforgettable experience that captures the magic of Annapolis. For lunch, you can enjoy a panoply of tasty appetizers, from roasted brussel sprouts with pork belly and a Thai chili glaze, to the savory crab pretzel with Chesapeake crab dip and cheddar and Jack cheeses, to mac & cheese with Tasso ham or Alley sliders.
Try a cup of their cream of crab soup for a taste of the sea. There are fresh salads, including grilled Caesar and a Tuscany Cobb salad, which are perfect for the warmer weather. You might enjoy handhelds like the juicy Alley Burger with garlic aioli, bacon and more, or the Beyond Vegetable Burger with roasted red pepper and avocado. Step it up a notch with a Salmon BLT or their famous Maryland crab cake—or try the vegan farro vegetable hash. Then finish it off with a long walk around the Yard! They also offer a buffet at certain times of the year if you’re craving a sampling! Lunch in Annapolis is always a treat. Here’s the current menu for inspiration.
As a member, you will enjoy a dinner menu that features rotating seasonal options. And no true dinner is complete without something a little sweet! Indulge in freshly made dessert and relax at the generously stocked bar, which is open for happy hour and dinner.
Throughout the year, Chef Randy and his team design members-only menus to celebrate special days, like Halloween, the Members’ Holiday event in early December, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter Brunch, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and more; they are accompanied by themed three-course prix fixe selections. A recent Mardi Gras evening menu included three-course options like shrimp-okra hush puppies, blackened chicken, and king cake. A Cinco de Mayo night featured a three-course meal with bay scallop and shrimp ceviche, coffee-crusted flat iron steak, and chocolate plantain brownies, among other delicious choices.
Members have access to other events too. The Alley provides Sunday brunches, Prime Rib Nights, Oktoberfest Nights, and Lobster Night. During the football and basketball seasons, Friday night tailgates help kick off the weekend in style. All year long, The Alley makes each meal memorable.
In addition to being able to enjoy happy hours, dinners, and themed meals, you’ll also receive other great benefits like driving privileges on the Yard, shopping privileges at the Midshipmen Store, and discounts at Navyonline.com.
There's never been a better time to be a part of the NAC. You’ll be helping the midshipmen, since all proceeds from the NAC and The Alley (as well as Naval Academy tours and shopping) go to the Brigade to fund extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more.
For eligibility requirements, menus, and special events, check out our website here.