Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about dining and events at The Alexander.
Dining
What type of cuisine does The Alexander serve?
We serve seasonal New American cuisine with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients from Finger Lakes farms and regional producers. Our menu changes regularly to reflect what's fresh and available.
What are your hours?
We're open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday. Wednesday–Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM. Friday–Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM. We're closed Sunday through Tuesday.
Is there a dress code?
We encourage smart casual attire. Most guests wear business casual or date-night attire. No shorts, tank tops, or athletic wear, please. No formal dress required.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most food allergies. Please note any dietary needs when making your reservation, and your server will guide you through options.
Do you have a children's menu?
We don't have a separate children's menu, but our kitchen is happy to prepare simpler dishes for younger guests. Please let us know when you arrive.
Is The Alexander wheelchair accessible?
Yes. We have an accessible entrance at street level and our main floor is fully accessible with no steps. Accessible restrooms are available on the main floor.
Do you have outdoor seating?
We don't currently offer outdoor seating. Our dining takes place inside the historic mansion.
Can I see the menu before I visit?
Yes. Our current dinner menu and drinks menu are available online. Keep in mind that seasonal items may change.
Do you offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. We always have vegetarian options on the menu and can accommodate vegan diners with advance notice. Our kitchen takes plant-based cooking seriously—these aren't afterthought dishes.
Is The Alexander part of a restaurant group?
Yes. The Alexander is part of the Swan Family of Restaurants, a Rochester hospitality family on Park Avenue and Alexander Street. Sister restaurants include Vern's (Modern Italian), Dorado (Mexican), Leonore's (Pan-Asian), Roux (French Bistro), Bevy (Mediterranean Rotisserie), The Daily Refresher (Gastropub & Craft Cocktails), and Pearson's (Cafe & Market).
Reservations
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. We do accept walk-ins when space is available, but we can't guarantee a table without a reservation.
How do I make a reservation?
The easiest way is through our online reservation system at Tock. You can also call us at (585) 287-6933 during business hours.
How far in advance can I book?
Reservations open 30 days in advance. For special occasions or large groups, we recommend booking as early as possible.
What's your cancellation policy?
We ask for at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or modify your reservation. For parties of 6 or more, a credit card is required to hold the reservation, and late cancellations may incur a fee.
Can I request a specific table?
We're happy to note your preference (window, booth, quieter area, etc.) and will do our best to accommodate, but we can't guarantee specific tables.
What if I'm running late?
Please call us at (585) 287-6933 to let us know. We'll hold your table for 15 minutes past your reservation time. After that, we may need to release it.
Do you take large group reservations?
For parties of 8 or more, we recommend our private dining rooms. For groups of 6–7, we can often accommodate in the main dining room with advance notice. Call us at (585) 287-6933 to discuss.
Private Events
What types of events can you host?
We host weddings, corporate events, rehearsal dinners, birthday celebrations, anniversary dinners, holiday parties, and more. If you have a group and want a private space, we can likely accommodate you.
How many guests can you accommodate?
Our three event spaces accommodate groups from 8 to 150 guests. The Turret Room holds 8–16, The Tonga Room holds 20–45, and the Main Dining Room holds 50–80. Full venue buyout accommodates up to 150.
Do you provide catering?
Yes—all food and beverage for events is provided by our in-house kitchen. This is one of our key differentiators: your guests eat restaurant-quality food prepared by our culinary team, not outside catering.
Can I bring my own caterer?
No. All food and beverage must be provided by The Alexander. This ensures quality control and allows us to provide the best possible experience for your guests.
Can I bring my own cake?
Yes. You're welcome to bring a cake from your preferred bakery for birthdays, weddings, and celebrations. We'll store it, present it at the appropriate time, and handle cutting and plating.
Can I bring outside vendors (photographer, DJ, florist)?
Yes. You're welcome to bring your own photographer, DJ, florist, and other vendors. They must coordinate with our events manager and provide proof of insurance.
Is there a food and beverage minimum?
Yes. Minimums vary by day of week, time of year, and room. We'll provide specific details when you request a proposal.
Do you have AV equipment?
We have a 65" display screen with HDMI connectivity, wireless presentation capability, basic microphone, and WiFi. For more complex AV needs, we can coordinate with local AV partners.
How far in advance should I book?
For weddings and large events, we recommend 6–12 months. For corporate events and smaller celebrations, 4–8 weeks is usually sufficient. Holiday dates book 4–6 months in advance.
How do I inquire about an event?
Fill out our event inquiry form or call (585) 287-6933. We respond to all inquiries within 48 hours.
What's included in the venue rental?
Room rental typically includes tables, chairs, linens, tableware, and basic setup. Specific inclusions depend on your event package and will be detailed in your proposal.
Is there parking for event guests?
Street parking is available on Alexander Street (free after 6 PM). There are also paid lots within 1–2 blocks. Valet service can be arranged for larger events.
Weddings
Can we have our ceremony at The Alexander?
Yes. The Turret Room and Main Dining Room can both be configured for ceremonies. Many couples have their ceremony and reception here.
Do you have a preferred vendor list?
We have partners we love working with—photographers, florists, DJs, officiants—and we're happy to share recommendations. But you're welcome to bring your own vendors.
What's included in wedding packages?
Packages typically include venue rental, event coordination, tables/chairs/linens, in-house catering, bar service, and basic AV. We'll customize a package based on your needs and provide itemized pricing.
Can we do a rehearsal dinner the night before?
Absolutely. We're Rochester's #1 rated rehearsal dinner venue. Many couples host both their rehearsal dinner and reception with us.
Do you offer tastings?
Yes. Once you've signed a contract, we'll schedule a menu tasting so you can sample dishes and finalize your selections.
What's your payment schedule?
Typically: deposit to hold the date, 50% payment 60 days before the event, final payment 2 weeks before the event. We'll outline the exact schedule in your contract.
Getting Here
Where can I park?
Street parking is available on Alexander Street and surrounding blocks. Meters are free after 6 PM and on weekends. There are also paid lots within 1–2 blocks.
Is valet available?
We can arrange valet parking for private events. Please inquire when planning your event.
What's your address?
282 Alexander Street, Rochester, NY 14607. We're in the East End neighborhood, near the intersection of Alexander and East Avenue.
Are you near downtown hotels?
Yes. We're walking distance from several downtown hotels including Hilton Garden Inn (0.3 miles), The Strathallan (0.5 miles), and Hyatt Regency (0.6 miles).
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help. Give us a call or send an email.
Call (585) 287-6933 Email Us