There's something deliciously seventeen about drinking in "The Alley." Of course, real seventeen year olds can't get in. This place is legit, but the vibe is very Lloyd Dobler in a gas station parking lot asking a bunch of punk kids why he just can't win with women. (Don't worry Lloyd none of us really have that figured out and most of us who seem to be doing it successfully are really just faking it.)
The crowd here varies but I have always felt welcome. Drinks are ok. Sometimes they're great but it depends on who's tending bar. The good thing is they're fairly cheap. As a music venue I give it high five. It's dirty and dark with a one foot high stage that's obviously meant for performance but not so far removed as to make you feel like you're not connected to what's going on. The sound is ok. It depends on the show really but I've always had a good time and that counts for a lot.
I like the pictures on the ceiling. They're fun to try to decipher when you're setting yourself on spin cycle. The pool tables are usually full so I can't really vouch for them other than to say that they're popular. All in all, it's a decent place to pummel yourself in the face with your beverage of choice.