Plat 99 at The Alexander Debuts New Menu and Stylish Lounge Experience in Downtown Indianapolis

In a city that continues to redefine its culinary identity, the newly reimagined Plat 99 at The Alexander arrives as both a refresh and a statement. With the hotel’s transition into Autograph Collection, the unveiling of its multi-million-dollar renovation feels less like a reopening and more like a cultural reset—one that positions this downtown destination as equally compelling for locals as it is for overnight guests.

From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this isn’t just a hotel—it’s an immersive experience. The Alexander has long blurred the lines between hospitality and art, and that ethos remains central. The property doubles as a contemporary gallery, with works curated by Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. Signature pieces like the striking Madam C.J. Walker portrait composed of thousands of hair combs and Paul Villinski’s soaring vinyl bird installation, “Anthem,” set a tone that’s both thoughtful and visually arresting. The nightly Art Hour, complete with local spirits and guided exploration, reinforces the idea that this is a place meant to be lingered in.

But the true centerpiece of the refresh is the new menu at Plat 99, helmed by Chef Eli Laidlaw. It’s here that the concept of a “social lounge” comes fully to life. The menu is globally inspired yet grounded in Indiana sensibility, offering dishes that feel familiar at first glance but reveal unexpected depth.

We began with the hummus plate, a vibrant and well-balanced starter that immediately set the tone for the evening. Silky and rich, the hummus was elevated by a bright mojo verde that added herbal depth and a subtle punch of acidity. The inclusion of sweet fried plantains alongside crisp cucumbers created a dynamic contrast of textures and flavors, while warm pita tied everything together. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and refreshingly original.

Next came the charred carrots, a standout that proves vegetables can easily steal the spotlight. Cooked to a perfect tenderness with just the right amount of caramelization, the carrots were layered with a bold chili crunch that added heat and texture. The whipped feta ricotta brought a creamy, slightly tangy counterpoint, while pistachios added a nutty finish. Each bite delivered complexity without feeling overworked—thoughtful, balanced, and memorable.

The gyro pork belly bites offered perhaps the most playful take on a familiar favorite. Presented as a deconstructed gyro, the dish invited a bit of interaction, allowing you to build each bite to your liking. The pork belly was crisp on the outside, tender within, and richly flavorful without being overwhelming. Paired with cool, refreshing tzatziki, a bright cucumber salad, and soft pita, the dish struck a satisfying balance between indulgence and freshness. The feta added just the right amount of saltiness to round everything out.

We ended our meal with a few sweet treats off their menu. The Chocolate Malt Cake is a site to be seen. The delectable dessert is served with a cereal crunch, pistachio cream and is as rich and delicious as it sounds. My favorite however was the Banana Chai Tart which consists of roasted banana, chair toffee, a graham crunch and banana chai cream.

The beverage program deserves equal praise. By day, Plat 99 functions as a polished coffee destination, ideal for casual meetings or solo work sessions. By night, it shifts effortlessly into cocktail mode, where the drinks are as artful as the surroundings. Expect inventive combinations that lean into seasonal ingredients and local distillers, reinforcing the lounge’s connection to the broader Indiana community. You won’t go wrong with an Old Fashioned. The presentation alone is worth it.

What makes Plat 99 particularly successful in its new iteration is its versatility. The redesigned seating and layout encourage fluidity—you can just as easily drop in for a quick espresso as you can settle in for an evening of cocktails and conversation. It’s this adaptability that gives the space real staying power, especially in a downtown landscape that often leans more transactional than experiential.

Ultimately, the new Plat 99 isn’t trying to be the loudest or trendiest spot in Indianapolis. Instead, it offers something more enduring: a thoughtfully curated environment where food, drink, art, and community intersect. In doing so, it quietly reestablishes The Alexander as one of the city’s most compelling everyday destinations—one that invites you back not just for a meal, but for the experience as a whole.

To learn more about The Alexander Hotel and Plat 99, visit: https://www.thealexander.com/