Fresh Air, Fresh Eats: Outdoor Dining in Annapolis

Summer in Annapolis means steamed crabs and crushes, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than dining outside. If you’re going out for burgers and beer, oysters and wine, or chicken fingers and apple juice (I mean for the kids, but no judgment if that’s your order), then pull up a chair outside at any of these local restaurants.

On the Pier

Donnelly’s Dockside

Over in Arnold, Donnelly’s offers a friendly atmosphere with a variety of seafood options. Their crab cake sandwich uses jumbo lump crab, which sounds downright decadent. You could also have baked or raw oysters—perfect no matter if you like them Rockefeller-style or topped with hot sauce. You can sit out on their deck or up close to Deep Creek at tables on the pier. They have umbrellas that tilt for sun protection that doesn’t depend on the sun’s cooperation. And their kids’ menu has enough options to keep them happy.

Address: 1050 Deep Creek Avenue, Arnold, MD 21012
Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 11 AM to 9 PM. Friday and Saturday, 11 AM to 10 PM.
Parking: Free parking lot. 

Pleasant Patios

1747 Pub

The historic inn and restaurant Reynolds Tavern has casual drinks and dining in its basement, 1747 Pub. Outside, its charming garden area offers a place to relax for an evening and listen to live music. Order one of their specialties such as bangers and mash or shepherd’s pie with a colonial cocktail. Pets are welcome in the Lower Courtyard. The restaurant requests that children stay seated at their table with adults, so if you’ve got a wanderer, maybe wait until they’re older.

Address: 7 Church Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM to close. No reservations.
Parking: Paid street parking. The nearest garage is Gott’s Court.

Rams Head Tavern

Whether you’re planning to go to a show at Rams Head on Stage, the Tavern is a great date night or family dinner spot. Their patio has a pergola overhead and lush greenery for a cozy feel. It’s a great spot for a burger and hand-cut fries. Or, for an upgrade, you can try their bacon-wrapped scallops. If you want lighter fare, go with the cheese board. And your kiddos (and you, of course) will love an indulgent ice cream sundae. Then enjoy live music at the restaurant, catch a show next door, or take a scenic walk on West Street. 

Address: 33 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 11 AM to midnight. Friday to Saturday, 11 AM to 2 AM. Sunday, 10 AM to midnight.
Parking: Paid street parking. The nearest garage is Gott’s Court.

Rooftops with a View

Metropolitan Kitchen & Lounge

Head up to the Metropolitan rooftop for an evening meal or drinks. The large space feels like it’s three-in-one: You can sit at the bar, cozy up on the couches, or enjoy the view of West Street. Shade sails protect from the sun while string lights warm up a romantic night. 

Is it Tuesday? They have an all-night happy hour. Need a Wednesday pick-me-up? Bottles of wine are half-priced. Feeling hungry on Thursday? Their Met burgers are only $10. And Sundays are “Italian Night” with $12 pastas and $7 for an aperol spritz or espresso martini—perfect for dining al fresco.

Address: 175 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
Hours: Open every day except Monday. The rooftop opens at 4 PM as long as there is no event.
Parking: Paid street parking. The nearest garage is Knighton.

The Choptank

City Dock construction might make for a different view, but Ego Alley still has plenty of sights to dazzle. Visitors can watch beautiful sailboats and yachts floating on Spa Creek and decide which has the best name. There is enough food to share with a large party for anyone who loves steak, shellfish (especially crabs), or one of their fresh catches. Have a classic orange crush or a handcrafted cocktail. Then watch the sunset at the top of Main Street.

Address: 110 Compromise Street, Annapolis, MD 21401
Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 7 AM to 11 PM (kitchen closes at 10 PM). Friday to Saturday, 7 AM to 1 AM (kitchen closes at 11 PM).
Parking: Paid street parking. The nearest garage is Mills Hillman.

Street Level

 And here are a few other restaurants with outdoor dining:

• Boatyard Bar & Grill, Eastport
• Black Market Bakers, Edgewater and Annapolis
• Blackwall Hitch, Eastport
• Bread and Butter Kitchen, Eastport
• Cooper’s Hawk Winery, Annapolis Town Center
• Dinner Under the Stars, various restaurants on West Street
• Full On Craft Eats & Drinks, Annapolis Harbour Centre
• Harper’s Waterfront, Edgewater
• Iron Rooster, Market Space
• Market House, Market Space
• Rumhouse, Eastport
• Severn Inn, near the Naval Academy Bridge
• Vin 909 Winecafé, Eastport

Have your meal with a side of good weather and good people. You can enjoy gazing at the sunset reflecting off the water. Feel the energy of busy crowds and friendly faces walking around the city. Or have a quiet meal in an intimate setting with twinkling lights and fresh air. In Annapolis, you can soak up every moment of these longer days to feed your body and soul.