Wedding Rehearsal Venue ....

Hi

I wonder if anyone is able to help advise of a suitable venue in Annapolis/near to Annapolis for a wedding rehearsal buffet on 27th May.

In brief it will be for around 35 guests, with the majority from England/New Zealand. So something with character, nice views, great local food, but not breaking the bank would be perfect! Has anyone got any suggestions/recommendations? I am expecting it to start around 5pm for a few hours (the Brits like a drink!)

Many thanks for your help!

Wedding Rehearsal Venue ....

For the best views and character, I would strongly consider the Chart House or the Severn River Inn. Other options would be Paul%26#39;s on the South River, Yellow Fin, Puser%26#39;s Landing, and Carol%26#39;s Creek.

Wedding Rehearsal Venue ....

Well first, most of the better restaurants located near the waterfront will not be cheap. That is just the nature of the beast. Maybe more folks will be willing to strike a deal with you considering the dire economic conditions.

The previous poster definitely highlighted the major players when it comes down to waterfront dining in the immediate area. I just will add some thoughts and observations since I have dined at almost every establishment mentioned.

Pusser%26#39;s commands a first rate waterfront location, but unfortunately this often means the kitchen doesn%26#39;t have to work that hard and it shows. It is located in the downtown Marriott. (Hotel restaurants can carry a premium price tag too). Many of the dishes are Caribbean influenced and not very good.

Chart House is in Eastport (still considered downtown) and is a chain albeit a good one. Many locals and tourists flock to this perfectly situated eatery to celebrate a variety of special occassions. The soaring windows and ceilings add to the drama and the views are fantastic. Seafood and beef is their primary focus with some creative creations.

Carrol Creek is also in Eastport and directly on the water. They get mixed reviews but lately it seems they have been hitting the mark as they have had better reviews by customers and critics alike. Again, seafood is a big focus here and some of the dishes are quite inventive and delicious.

The Severn Inn, Yellow Tail, and Paul%26#39;s are not in the immediate downtown area, although The Severn Inn is closest right across from the Naval Academy on the Severn River. I would probably stay away from Yellow Tail as it%26#39;s reputation is more for their high end happy hours that cater to the middle-aged white collar crowd rather than for a great place to dine.

The Severn Inn has an unbelievable location, but their high prices and inconsistant food preparation has prevented them from reaching star potential. Have never been to Paul%26#39;s so have no idea of the quality of the restaurant.

Some othe possibilities include: Sam%26#39;s on the waterfront. (very eclectic offerings, a nice waterfront location, and good seafood). They do specialize in special events like yours.

O%26#39;Leary%26#39;s Seafood restaurant is a stone%26#39;s throw from the water but you will not have any views. It is cozy and has an excellent reputation and loyal following. Ditto for Harry Browne%26#39;s on State Circle. Not on the water, but across from the commanding State House. Excellent food, historic building and first rate servers.

Lastly, is Osteria 177 which is on Main Street in downtown Annapolis. Upscale decor, but not stuffy and not on the water. It is Italian but has a strong emphasis on seafood. Is relatively new but developing a strong following with many postive diner reviews.

I do hope you will find something appropriate for your function. I also hope that you can narrow down your list and be able to preview each location before the big day.

';The Severn Inn, Yellow Tail, and Paul%26#39;s are not in the immediate downtown area, although The Severn Inn is closest right across from the Naval Academy on the Severn River. I would probably stay away from Yellow Tail as it%26#39;s reputation is more for their high end happy hours that cater to the middle-aged white collar crowd rather than for a great place to dine.';

When you reference ';Yellow Tail'; are you talking about ';Yellowfin';, or somewhere else?

Great advice! Thanks so much.... will check them out and hopefully find the perfect venue.

Your post reminded me of one of the Today Show weddings....They had one at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club. I haven%26#39;t been there, but it seemed great. It%26#39;s just across the Bay Bridge from Annapolis. You may want to look into it or maybe someone else knows more about it. Best wishes!

The Chesapeake Bay Beach Club is nice. It is across the Bay Bridge, which is about 20 - 30 minutes from Annapolis. The only issue is that for a wedding rehersal dinner, you may hit rush hour traffic, which would be doable on a Wednesday night, but I would avoid if on a Friday.

If you are interested in private venues (not restaurants), there are a couple of other places that you may want to consider. They have a private room at Historic Londontown in Edgewater (about 20 minutes from Annapolis to the south). The complex is waterfront but the room is not. You could also look into the Blue Herron room at Quiet Waters Park (again the park is waterfront), but the room is not.

Sorry, Yellow Fin.