Each May, Annapolis gears up to celebrate Commissioning Week at the United States Naval Academy—including yours truly, whose SEAL son graduated a few years ago. It seems like yesterday that family members flew in from San Francisco and Savannah to celebrate his graduation. While many folks rent houses for the week and others stay in hotels or B&Bs, where to meet and eat is an ongoing question for out-of-towners, so here are some suggestions.

Downtown

At the City Dock, McGarvey’s Saloon (8 Market Space) is a personal fave – “the real deal” thanks to owner and local celeb Mike Ashford. Great burgers, eggs Benedict, oyster bar. Middleton Tavern (2 Market Space) is prime time for al fresco dining and people-watching. Best-ever black bean soup, chateaubriand for two, oyster shooters, and live music. Big Cheese Deli (47 Randall St) is an excellent source for a sandwich or two and picnic supplies.

Moving up Main Street, Joss Café (#195) is authentic sushi headquarters where skilled chefs preside at the sushi bar, and a pretty patio beckons. Chick and Ruth’s Delly (#165) starts each day with a salute to the flag and is a legendary landmark for breakfast and stacked sandwiches. Osteria (#177) offers superb Italian fare in an elegant “special occasion” setting. For simple but good French-influenced cooking, discover Café Normandie (#185), a chef-owned charmer with a second-floor “group room.” Red Red Wine Bar (#189b) and Dry 85 (#193b) are for those who appreciate whimsy with their wine or shots of high-end whiskey–tempered with imaginative small plates and intelligent service.

Church Circle, at the top of Main Street, showcases St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, founded in 1692 as the city’s first official house of worship. Reynold’s Tavern (7 Church Circle) boasts a popular patio and two indoor dining rooms serving afternoon tea. From this landmark, we arrive on West Street and a two-block area known as “restaurant row.” Rams Head Tavern (33 West) is known for its spacious outdoor garden (the oldest grape arbor in the city) and for hosting nationally known musical performers. We love the artwork, the casual vibe, and the outdoor patio (and the waffles) at 49 West.

Find fusion cooking and sushi at Tsunami (51 West) and enjoy artisan cocktails and tasty tapas at Level Small Plates Lounge (69 West). Thai fans are happy with Lemongrass (167 West) and looking for authentic Tuscan specialties at Carpaccio (1 Park Place). We’re so glad to have you here – and hope you eat well and sleep sweet.

These are my picks, limited by both geography and space. Consider researching more restaurants in our dining directory!