KILN at Hotel Heron is More than a Hotel Restaurant

Your next great meal in Old Town awaits, and you’ll find it within the stylish Hotel Heron on Prince Street.

KILN is more than a hotel restaurant; it’s a culinary beacon that honors Old Town Alexandria’s rich heritage through open‑hearth cooking and regionally driven menus.

In fact, the whole place is steeped in local lore. KILN’s name pays tribute to Henry Piercy, Alexandria’s first documented potter, whose kiln once stood mere blocks away. Now, the hearth’s glow beckons a new kind of functional artistry. By daylight, the dining space is warm and inviting, and evenings spotlight the open kitchen with a lively atmosphere to draw in the cocktail crowd.

KILN brings fishermen, farmers, and a potter’s past into present-day dining. It’s a quietly proud centerpiece for Hotel Heron and a destination in its own right.

Breakfast is also served daily here, and features dependable classics elevated by regional ingredients. Think: Savory uses of Virginia ham or apple-farm eggs, accompanied by house‑made bread and farm‑fresh produce. (And lunch service is anticipated in the fall!)

But it’s dinner that currently draws foodies to KILN and its curated journey into flame, smoke, and char. Small bites like Olde Salt oysters or Ember-Roasted Sweet Potatoes pair naturally with more complex plates: Confit North Carolina Shrimp, Atlantic Spotted Seatrout, Maryland catfish with crispy potato and smoked butter, or Mosner Farms lamb rack and Shook Farms strip loin for those craving bold shared entrees.

A tempting “Here Today, Gone Tomorrow” section spotlights fleeting finds from local producers like Seylou, Pluma Bakery, Fresh Impact Farms, and Wades Mill, making each visit feel bespoke and fresh… and keeping you coming back to find more.

Pro Tip: For adventurous diners, reservations at the eight‑seat Chef’s Counter unlock a full “At the Counter” tasting, with privileged views of the hearth, close interaction with the kitchen team, and the most coveted dishes delivered directly from flame to plate.