The recent opening of The Wildbirch Hotel in early June marks a few milestones for both the city of Anchorage and the state of Alaska. It’s the first JdV by Hyatt-branded property in Alaska, the first lifestyle boutique hotel in Anchorage, and the first lodging establishment to open in the city in 20 years. On-site are 252 guest rooms, two food and beverage outlets (with a third coming this fall), and 5,200 square feet of event space.
“Watching this place come to life has been an honor,” says Haje Thurau, general manager of the hotel, in a prepared statement. “It’s very special to see our overnight guests immerse themselves in the Anchorage lifestyle, engage with locals, and discover what makes our little corner of Alaska such a magical place.”
The two existing culinary destinations at the hotel include Crimson, the signature restaurant, and Canteen Coffee Co., located in the lobby. Crimson is led by Executive Chef La Mont Caldwell and serves up a menu of Alaska staples with a Latin American twist—from arroz con pollo (a rice and chicken dish) and seafood stew to Alaska salmon and carnitas (seasoned pork). Small groups of up to 16 people can dine in Crimson’s private dining room, and al fresco dining also is available on its terrace. The third culinary outlet opening this fall is Undertap, a tasting room serving up locally brewed craft beers.
“We are confident Crimson will make its mark on Anchorage’s buzzing dining scene,” says Gary McCutcheon, the hotel’s director of food and beverage. “Chef La Mont is extremely talented and we’re looking forward to treating our hotel guests to classic Alaska dishes, while surprising and delighting Alaskans with a few twists on old favorites.”
Available meeting spaces at The Wildbirch Hotel include the 2,620-square-foot Kenai River Ballroom for events of up to 225 attendees and the Yukon River Conference Room, best-suited for up to 144 people. Other options on-site for meetings are the Kenai River Terrace, Susitna River Boardroom, Copper River Private Dining Room, Crimson Terrace, and Undertap (available when it opens this fall).
