The Alley Light is one of Charlottesville's best kept secrets, tucked away in an alley off the side streets of the historic Downtown Mall, identifiable only by a hanging light above its entrance (and of course its listing on Google!) With classic French cuisine, adventurous craft cocktails, and a casual, elegant atmosphere, Alley Light's allure is sure to set the stage for a night you’ll never forget. On Valentine’s Day, stop by at 5:30PM, 6PM, 6:15PM, 8:15PM, 8:30PM, or 9PM for a 4-course meal, $115 per person!. Reservations to this special seating can be made via phone,

The Alley Light is conveniently located in Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall, and it features classic French shared plates. Small plates include Artichoke Gratin with bacon, carrot, and parmesan; Anchovy Toast with parsley butter and country bread; Marinated Calamari; House Made Seafood Board; Tuna Carpaccio; and Veal, Foie Gras, and Sweetbread Terrine. The Alley Light also features additional weekly specials that can be found on their website.

Enjoy the best Mule in town at the Alley Light, known for signature cocktails that use homemade ingredients. A delicious combination of Reyka vodka, house ginger beer, and house bitters, this amazing cocktail is served in a chilled copper mug, making it seem like the perfect drink for an adult Harry Potter. Drinking the Mary Lou Mule is easy, but finding the restaurant can be a bit of a challenge, since there is no sign.

Tucked away in a quaint alley, blending seamlessly with the charming backdrop of Downtown Charlottesville, you’ll find the jewel that is The Alley Light. The aura of this place is beautifully paradoxical — an easy-to-miss gem that lights up your night with an unforgettable cocktail experience. Exquisite Ambiance: Step inside and instantly be transported to a vintage Parisian loft, with a dash of modern American vibe.

Kenney grew up in central Virginia so we’ll be visiting some classic C-Ville spots that have been around for decades, but we’ll also take you to some new favorites, like The Alley Light, just off the city’s downtown pedestrian mall. Our Weekend Getaway newsletters are always reserved for our paid subscribers, and we’ll be talking about all of our favorite places to eat and drink around town.

Billed as a speakeasy, the Alley Light is only an option for the visitor who’s willing to follow you down a dark alley. If they’re willing to take the leap, though, they’re in for a real treat- the high-end, loungey, serious-cocktail joint is excellent for people who are bored with garden variety cocktails, have an adventurous side, or are really hard to please.

Description: Hidden away in an alley, this speakeasy-style restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience. The Alley Light serves a variety of French-inspired small plates and fun cocktails in an elegant setting. The ever-changing menu features seasonal fresh ingredients and expertly crafted dishes that are perfect for sharing.

Or walk around the downtown mall and stop in Alley Light, a French speak-easy bistro complete with candlelight and a nightly rotating menu. Go to Tavola for handmade pasta in Belmont, a residential-area-turned-restaurant-region. Next door is the Local, a farm-to-table restaurant with string lights and a woodsy atmosphere.

Hidden in a small alley on 2nd Street is a fine dining Charlottesville restaurant with a cool bar and a speakeasy vibe. The Alley Light offers an upscale but accessible menu of small plates and shared boards, perfect for a group or date night out. The Bone Marrow with escargots is a dramatic and delicious plate to share.

After a long day of tasting and drinking, head to Belmont-based Tavola – arguably the best restaurant in town. Delicious homemade pasta and authentic Italian fare (don’t skip the eggplant parmigiana). Post dinner, grab a late night bottle at Crush Pad, Charlottesville’s best wine bar/shop, located on the Downtown Mall.

Our journey continues to the Alley Light, a sophisticated cocktail lounge imbued with the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Known for its French-inspired menu, Alley Light also plays host to an enriching jazz scene, winning over even the most discerning jazz enthusiast. At Alley Light, you can enjoy:

If you’re seeking a romantic, intimate experience, this speakeasy-style restaurant is a must. The Alley Light offers a very sophisticated small-plate menu with French-inspired dishes like duck liver mousse, beef tartare, and other seasonal favorites. Enjoy award-winning cocktails and French wines.

108 2nd St SW, Charlottesville, VA 22902 Website | Facebook | Instagram | Photo: The Alley Light FB. Tucked away in the side streets of Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall, The Alley Light offers classic French shared plates, craft cocktails and small grower wines in a casually elegant atmosphere.

In 2016, Executive Chef Brian Jones left his post at Petit Pois Restaurant to fill the same post at the newly minted Timberwood Taphouse in 5th Street Station. After launching Timberwood Taphouse, Chef Brian left to fill the executive chef position at The Alley Light.

Your dinner reservations at The Alley Light aren’t until 6 p.m., so you have plenty of time. Besides, the eatery sits just a few blocks over down a short, harmless alley. Look for the, well, alley light above a nondescript door and it’ll lead you to the dining room.

The Alley Light (108 2nd Street SW) - If you like speakeasy vibes, you have to try The Alley Light. It's Charlottesville's own speakeasy bar!. I have to be honest, the vibe wasn't my personal favorite (dark and small), but a lot of my friends love this place.

The dim lighting, cozy corners, and classic French small plates encourage sharing and lingering over each course. Pair their signature duck confit with a cocktail from their exceptional bar menu for a night that feels as indulgent as it is intimate.

Drinks mixed by bartender extraordinaire Micah LeMon are a Charlottesville experience not to be missed. He’s not just a mixologist; he’s a published author of a book on bartending and an undeniable expert who’s made craft cocktails a science.

In the downtown mall, you’ll find this cute restaurant that feels like a cozy bar and serves delicious food. It’s tucked away and sort of hidden. There is a huge cocktail menu and a menu of small plates to share with friends.

But a local’s secret: check out The Alley Light and Lost Saint speakeasy bars. These cozy spots have an intimate atmosphere with incredible drinks. Try the dealer’s choice at Alley Light if you want a surprise craft cocktail.

The Alley Light is tucked away in an actual alley on the historic Downtown Mall. If you haven’t been before, you are likely to walk by it several times before you find the door. I promise it is worth the struggle!

The Alley Light | 108 2nd St. SW – Tucked away in a side street of The Downtown Mall, the Alley Light offers classic French shared plates, craft cocktails and small grower wines in a casually elegant setting.

Beloved Beverage: Any of the handcrafted cocktails at The Alley Light, a speakeasy-esque bar and restaurant tucked away among the side streets of downtown Charlottesville .

One recent evening, an Alley Light patron joshed Micah LeMon about his repeat wins as best bartender. “Isn’t it about time to pass the torch?. ” he humbly offered.

- Rating: 4.3/5 (295 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 108 2nd St. Southwest Charlottesville, Virginia - Categories: seafood, french- Read more on Yelp