Hyatt’s Good Taste Series Showcases Rising Culinary Talent — and a Local Winner!

The Hyatt Good Taste Series returned this year, bringing together Hyatt chefs at the Park Hyatt in DC’s West End for a spirited culinary competition that highlighted creativity, innovation, and the brand’s food philosophy.

Launched as an internal program, the Good Taste Series has grown into a global showcase of culinary talent, offering participating chefs the opportunity for career development and international recognition. The competition begins at the local level, with winners advancing to regional rounds and, ultimately, to a global final where they may represent Hyatt on an international stage.

For the 2025 competition in DC, six chefs were challenged to craft dishes that reflect Hyatt’s commitment to “Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully Served.” 

This year’s local competition featured two dishes. First, a highlighted menu item from Chef’s home location. And second, a mystery basket challenge, requiring participants to create inventive dishes from a surprise selection of ingredients. The basket included: Monkfish, seaweed, artichoke…

The results highlighted both technical expertise and imaginative presentation, while underscoring Hyatt’s focus on sustainable and mindful sourcing.

Judged on taste, creativity, presentation, and alignment with Hyatt’s culinary philosophy, the dishes reflected the skill and passion found within Hyatt kitchens. [As a judge, K Street Mag’s Kate Michael, had the best job in the room: tasting, evaluating, and appreciating each chef’s hard work.]

Dishes were scored not just on flavor, but also presentation, originality, and alignment with Hyatt’s mindful sourcing ethos. Dishes held both beautifully plated entrées that told stories of heritage and inventive spins on familiar flavors.

First Prize was awarded to Chef Tynajai “Chef Nay” Bernard, Chef de Cuisine of the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill. Next, she’ll be heading to Scottsdale to represent her hotel in the next round!