Now Open: Tavern 64 Regional Kitchen

The Hyatt Regency Reston unveiled its new restaurant, Tavern 64 Regional Kitchen, on Tuesday. Gone is Market Street Bar & Grill and the typical hotel fare. It its place is a new concept - homey, regional fare and an ambitious bar.

Tavern 64 is all about Virginia and the surroundings. Food is primarily regionally sourced, sustainable and seasonal - and many of the liquors are from small-batch distillers in the area. Also, Tavern 64 hopes to make the spot as much a destination for Restonians as hotel guests.

Much of the opening night crowd was indeed locals eager to check out the new place, which was given a to-the-studs remodel after Market Street closed in March. The interior (there is also a 40-seat patio) has an open kitchen and many communal tables, giving patrons the feeling of being at someone's nice house.

Food is homestyle with a twist too. I had the rockfish (from Maryland and with a chili-honey sauce and yummy jalapeno cheese grits/$22) as well as a side of Brussels sprouts roasted with a bit of Parmesan ($4). There are lots of small plates available ($7-10). Lunch entrees are in the $10-16 range.

Interesting breakfast offerings include a chocolate waffle ($12) and vegan hash ($12), and young guests will find plenty on a reasonably-priced but hotel-sophisticated kids menu.

Ross Virando, hotel food and beverage director, is especially proud of the bar. Patrons are encouraged to try Tavern 64's signature cocktails (I had the French 75, a mixture of gin, sparkling wine, lemon and sugar in an old-school champagne glass), or at least sample their favorite drink with a new brand of liquor and a hit of gourmet syrup.

"No place in the area has this gin selection. We don't have Tanqueray or the usual suspects," said Virando.

Instead, there is, among other gins, Death's Door, a botanical blend from Wisconsin and Sunset Hills, from the Smith Bowman Distillery - formerly of Reston now of Fredericksburg.

Beers are similarly curated. On tap are selections from DC Brau (DC) and Lost Rhino (Loudoun), among others. There are no bottled beers - just cans, which Virando says helps beer hold its quality - with everything from Pabst Blue Ribbon to Tecate.

Tavern 64 Regional Kitchen at the Hyatt Regency Reston is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Gluten-free, vegan and kids items available. Reservations accepted: (703) 925-8250.

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