Windy City’s Best Hotel Restaurants
Let’s face it: there’s so much to see, do and eat in Chicago, so if you are visiting on work or just having a staycation, you need a little black book of places to go to at all times. No matter how long you’ve lived here, or how many times you’ve visited, there’s no doubt you probably haven’t made it to every good restaurant, bar or tourist attraction in the city. So, if you are booking a hotel with top restaurants and bars in mind, look no further.
NoMI Kitchen at the Park Hyatt
On the 7th floor of the Park Hyatt, this Magnificent Mile spot with floor to ceiling windows looking out over downtown Chicago offers more than just views. Classic french dishes such as Lobster Beignets and Foie Gras Mousse populate the menu, as do an array of elegant desserts. When you’re done at NoMI Kitchen, head to NoMI lounge for sophisticated drinks with amazing views. And make sure you visit SOON, as the hotel and restaurant is being updated in 2022.
Shanghai Terrace at The Peninsula Chicago
If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that life’s too short. It’s especially too short to have anything less than amazing food. Named the number one “Chinese Restaurant in Chicago" by Zagat Survey, Shanghai Terrace serves not only looks with it’s 1930s supper club décor, but amazing Chinese cuisine with an emphasis on Cantonese and Shanghainese specialties. From traditional Peking Duck with Mandarin pancakes, cucumber, scallion, hoisin and plum sauce to Braised Eggplant Szechuan Style; you’ll fall asleep and wake up thinking about these delectable dishes for weeks to come.
Bar Pendry at The Pendry Chicago
Located in the historic Carbide & Carbon building, walk-ins are always welcome at Bar Pendry, the prime example of a classic Chicago cocktail bar. A double-sided fireplace, leather sofas, and vintage rugs make this 54-person bar intimate and chic. Offering guests classic and seasonal cocktails, an array of beer and wine and upscale eats, you’ll never want to leave! Make sure to check out their afternoon boozy tea on Sundays for high tea with a twist.
Adorn Bar & Restaurant and The Social Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
The Four Seasons opened Adorn in 2020, and then recently also opened The Social Lounge, a reservation-only cocktail lounge offering afternoon tea, lavish food, and champagne and caviar service in the evening. Start your evening with their Lobster and Spaghetti “Joe Beef Style” made with bucatini pasta, bacon lardons, cognac butter & basil, all while sipping on a glass of champagne. You’ll look and feel like a celebrity!
Cira and Cabra at The Hoxton, Chicago
Located in the stunning Hoxton Hotel, Cira is an all-day café and restaurant perfect for lunch with colleagues, brunch with your girlfriends and working from home (not in your own home). Start your work day off with an Italian Sandwich made with mortadella, salami, smoked mozzarella and shredded lettuce from Cira. Then, head up to the rooftop to dine at Cabra for dinner with friends. At Cabra you will find dishes like Mushroom Ceviche with Mushroom Dashi, Seasonal Mushroom Medley and Smoked Soy, all of which draws inspiration from Chef Stephanie Izard’s travels throughout Peru.
Cherry Circle Room at The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
With floor to ceiling dark wood, overstuffed leather chairs, and a fireplace, you’ll feel like you walked straight into one of the Harry Potter films when visiting the Cherry Circle Room. When you enter the space on the second floor of the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, you’ll feel like you are in a different time. If this is your first time at the downtown hot spot, you have to try the mini crock of french onion soup and the Galsini cocktail with gin, Benedictine, passionfruit, honey, and lemon.
Travelle at The Langham, Chicago
Known for their American eats and stunning view of the Chicago River, Travelle is definitely a reason to stay at The Langham. If you’re in the mood for a truly good burger, try their Travelle Burger with Truffle Aioli, Cheddar, Bacon Jam and B&B Pickles and ask for their Asiago Bread with Whipped ‘Nduja Pork Butter, Local Honey and Seasonal Compote to share. You’ll like your meal at Travelle so much, you won’t want to try anywhere else!
By Madison Freeman | Special Coorespondent