Hoyt’s American Tavern gives guests the Royal treatment

Hoyt's American Tavern, 71 East Wacker Drive, attached to The Royal Sonesta Chicago, has rolled out an impressive menu packed with innovative taste and style.

Attached to the luxurious Royal Sonesta hotel in River North, this renovated venue unveils massive window seats indoors and a patio perfect for people-watching outdoors.

Now serving breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, the price point of Hoyt's was discovered to be very reasonable for a Downtown Chicago dining venue. The staff was friendly and attentive in conveying what the chefs have cooked up at the Tavern for visiting participants ready to try something new.

Start off with one of the cocktails named after various Windy City locations such as The Riverwalk, a concoction made with Empress Gin, Fever-Tree grapefruit soda and lemon. A pitcher of fruity red sangria will help one wine down after a long day at work or relax with one of the light Indian Pale Ales.

Much more than just “Snacks,” Hoyt's appetizers displayed a wide range of goodness and the Ponzu Tuna Tacos were a smart pick the night of my visit. This mouthwatering app had a Japanese citrus sauce paired with some rare tuna inside a taco that was placed next to an apple and jicama slaw. This unique dish shows the culinary team is smart to think creatively outside of the box.

In the salad department, patrons can't go wrong with the Berries and Balsamic medley containing carrots, goat cheese and blueberry balsamic dressing. Meat can be added to it for an additional charge, but the taste is already packed with a punch without the additional protein.

For entrees, the Harissa Spiced Salmon will hit the spot next to a red quinoa tabbouleh salad and tasty red pepper relish on the side. The Dry Brined Heritage Pork was exactly that and needed more moisture after leaning toward being overcooked, the presentation gains points for the pea puree and roasted decorative radishes placed on the plate.

End the experience with a cup of freshly brewed coffee to assist in digesting the two different desserts. Both the Brownie A La Mode and Blueberry Peach Cobbler were appealing in their own way. The chocolate brownie smothered in vanilla bean ice cream was especially addicting and had me begging for more.

In the past, hotel restaurants have not always received the accolades that they deserve and have faced many challenges with serving tourists as a rotating clientele. Hoyt's American Tavern sounds like the name of a pub but is much more. The well-curated menu and upscale decor of Hoyt's have elevated the overall experience to something that stands apart from typical dining fare found near transient lodgings.

Hop over to Hoyt's to find out for yourself and visit sonesta.com for additional information on what's in store before arrival.