The Red House Tavern will help make a new Hilton Garden Inn in Haymarket more than a welcome place to stay.
Executive Chef Joel Valente hopes to make the tavern a culinary destination. The 120-seat restaurant inside the hotel has a menu featuring country ham croquettes, local Oysters, burgers, mussels, arctic sea bass, and roast beef.
The hotel and Red House Tavern will open Friday, March 18, serving a modern take on classic Virginia dishes.
Executive Chef Valente comes to Haymarket from the famous Inn at Little Washington, about 30 miles away in Washington, Virginia. He’s also worked at several New York City fine-dining restaurants.
“We’re creating a community restaurant and bar with a neighborhood vibe,” said Valente, describing the Red House Tavern’s focus on the fine food traditions of Virginia.
“I love to cook. Food makes me so happy,” said Valente. “If I could have a shack and cook my life away, I would do that. It gives me joy, and I want the food to convey that message.”
The Red House Tavern will elevate traditional dishes that feature local makers and producers in a setting that makes guests feel welcome.
Asked about his favorite forthcoming delight, Valente cites his charcuterie board made in-house with locally sourced meat.
“It’s great food served in a beautiful way made for sharing,” he said. Valente says the restaurant will focus on shareable bites. That includes burgers, Virginia oysters and seafood, and more. Additional menu details will be available soon.
“Inspired by the Mediterranean but with Virginia roots, we’ll have an abundance of great food,” Valente said. “Your palate will be invigorated.” He said the menu will feature about 16 items changed frequently to reflect the seasons and local harvests.
Red House Tavern will be open for dinner daily initially, from 5 to 10 p.m. The bar will feature cocktails and local beer and wine. The restaurant space also will be available for special occasions and events.
The Hilton Garden Inn, at 15001 Washington Street in Haymarket, will also feature the Crossroads Café coffee shop featuring beans roasted locally by the Haymarket Coffee Company and serving house-made baked goods daily.
