The Alden

Yes, The Alden is an excellent pick for a date night. Guests repeatedly describe it as intimate and special-occasion friendly, with attentive service, thoughtful wine pairings and chef visits that make evenings feel personal. Expect refined, seasonal American dishes and a warm, convivial atmosphere that suits anniversaries, Valentine’s dinners and celebrations. Plan for an evening reservation and consider the chef’s counter or a quieter weekday seating for the most intimate experience.

Portions vary by how you dine. Guests say the tasting menus are multi-course with smaller, artfully composed plates meant to be savored, while a la carte items and three-course prix fixe options are described as generous or ‘spot on’ by many. A few guests found some individual a la carte entrées smaller or expected more for the price, so if you’re particularly hungry consider sharing plates or ordering an extra course.

The Alden serves lunch on Thursdays and Fridays and offers dinner most evenings. Current posted hours are: Lunch, Thu & Fri 12:00 pm–2:00 pm. Dinner, Wed, Thu & Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm; Fri & Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm. Because the kitchen runs seasonal and special menus, it’s a good idea to check current hours or call before you go, especially around holidays or special events.

Families do dine here, and guests often celebrate birthdays with children, so The Alden is family-friendly in practice. Many guests mentioned bringing kids and toddlers and enjoying celebratory meals. Seating options include main dining tables and the Chef’s Counter (which is more intimate and best for adults or older kids). Tables can be close together, so if you need accessible seating or extra space, call ahead to discuss accommodations, accessibility specifics aren’t detailed online.

The best time depends on the vibe you want. For a quieter, more relaxed dinner choose an earlier seating or midweek (Wed or Thu); many guests praised calm weekday dinners. If you want a lively, celebratory energy, Friday and Saturday nights, and holiday evenings like Valentine’s Day or NYE, are busier and more festive. Lunch service is offered Thu–Fri for a daytime option with lighter crowds. Reservations are recommended for peak nights and tasting menus.

The Alden offers a few distinct seating experiences: a main dining room with table seating and a bar area, plus the Chef’s Counter, an intimate counter seat where you can watch the kitchen and enjoy a seven-course tasting. Guests also reference open-kitchen seating and bar/counter views that make dining interactive. The restaurant accepts private parties, so off‑room or group arrangements are possible with advance planning.

The Alden’s ambience is warm, convivial and contemporary, a fine‑dining feel without pretension. Guests praise attentive, knowledgeable staff, the open kitchen and the chef’s personal touches that create a welcoming, celebratory mood. It can get livelier and a bit noisy later in the evening, while weekday and early dinner seatings are described as more relaxed. Overall it’s ideal for food-focused dates and special occasions.

Business casual. Guests typically come dressed nicely for a special evening, polished but not overly formal. Since The Alden markets itself as a Michelin‑recommended, chef‑driven restaurant with a warm, convivial atmosphere, business casual attire fits both dinner dates and celebratory meals.

Yes, The Alden regularly accommodates special requests when contacted ahead of time. Guests report the kitchen and staff handled dietary needs (vegan, celiac) and celebration requests (birthday desserts and handwritten cards) with thoughtful care. If you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or are planning a celebration or private event, call the restaurant when you book so the team can prepare and personalize your visit.

The Alden is busiest on Friday and Saturday nights and during special occasions/holidays (Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve, holiday brunches), when guests report lively, packed service. Quieter times include weekday dinners (especially Wed/Thu) and lunchtime service on Thu–Fri. Guests also note that evenings can get louder later, so an earlier reservation will feel more relaxed.

For a quieter, more intimate experience choose midweek, Wednesday or Thursday evening, or Sunday dinner when the pace is calmer. If you prefer a livelier vibe or special-event menus, Friday and Saturday are busiest and most festive. Lunch on Thursday or Friday is a great daytime option for a lighter, less crowded visit. Reservations help secure your preferred day and time.

Yes, The Alden accepts private parties and large groups. The restaurant-provided information notes private‑party capability, and guests have celebrated birthdays and special events there with personalized service. If you’re planning a private event, contact the restaurant directly to discuss space, menu options (including tasting menus) and any special arrangements.

Yes, The Alden operates special holiday services on at least some occasions. Guests mention holiday offerings such as New Year’s Eve prix fixe dinners, Valentine’s Day menus and Easter brunch, so the restaurant does open for select holidays and special events. Because holiday schedules vary, call ahead or check the restaurant’s announcements for exact hours and special menus.

The Alden is rated 4.7 stars by 272 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.