When you meet Daniel Csotai, executive chef at the Hyatt Regency Valencia and mastermind of the gourmet goodness at Vines Restaurant, it's instantly obvious that this man loves what he does. How could he not? His restaurant, a Santa Clarita staple, is experiencing a revitalization that, by no coincidence, comes at the time of a new menu launch that celebrates everything Csotai and the Hyatt brand stand for: sustainability, a nod to local flavor, exquisite service and a twist on beloved classics.

The newest collection of entrees recently released has one delicious commonality: a modern California take. You'll find that fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are the star of the show, with an acknowledgement to SoCal's dietary preferences, including gluten-free options, lower-calorie selections and flavor profiles as diverse as the communities we call home.

Here's what we loved - and what you should try now.
The Grilled Skuna Bay Salmon
With a red-lentil puree, roasted peppers, rhubarb, orange-miso gastriuqe and crispy fennel relish, this dish is impressive to gaze upon and even more of a delight to eat. The fish is sustainable, obviously fresh, flakey and flavorful. Free of added hormones and antibiotics, this healthy dish has a hint of ethnic flair reminiscent of the best Indian cuisine.

Lemon-Herb Grilled Breast of Mary's Chicken
Served alongside roasted garlic and eggplant baba ghanoush and cilantro-lime jasmine rice, the hormone/antibiotic-free grilled chicken dish is another healthy option that leaves you feeling satisfied. The texture of the house-made baba ghanoush is velvety and rich, thanks to just-prepared chickpeas; when savored with a bite of the tender chicken breast, it's perfection.

Steak Frites
Looking for the perfect serving of steak? You've found it in the Tres Majores petite tender steak served alongside house truffle fries and a Roquefort demi glaze bursting with blue cheese. It is sensational in its simplicity.

Southwestern Quinoa Salad
Blackened shrimp, Belgian endive, black beans, roasted corn and peppers, Bermuda onions, tomatoes, avocado and a house-made vinaigrette make this dish a gluten-free, high-protein powerhouse of fabulous flavor. The red quinoa gives a nutty, complex taste that balances beautifully with the slightly-bitter endive and tender shrimp.

When should you dine on Vines new menu? Now is as good of a time as any, but you can pair your authentic, perfectly-seasoned meal with equally flavorful entertainment when you reserve your table during the annual Jazz & Blues Concert Series held in front of Vines on Town Center Drive. The first Friday-night concert is June 16 and the series runs until August 4. Also fun for a Friday night: Vines Prime Rib Buffet, which is an all-inclusive, all-you-can-eat gourmet spread of incredibly-juicy prime rib, salads, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, roasted veggies, a dessert station and much more.
Vines Restaurant & Bar is located within the Hyatt Regency Valencia and is open daily for breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour. Reservations are suggested for concert evenings, special events and holidays. 678-4044