Arrival/Check-In: The Conrad Chicago’s lobby is on the 20th floor; I arrived early in the morning with my colleague, Carly Allen. As we made our way up to the lobby, we both hoped for some time to work before dashing to our first meeting. Unfortunately, our rooms weren’t ready, but the spacious, multilevel lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows boasting views of downtown Chicago offered plenty of comfortable areas to connect to the complimentary WiFi and answer emails. The reception staff was warm and welcoming; and by the time we returned from our first meeting, our rooms were ready and our bags were already waiting.

Guest Quarters: My Michigan Avenue View guestroom felt new and untouched — almost pristine. From the entryway, the bathroom, outfitted in light gray granite and boasting a huge vanity, double sinks, tons of lighting options, a large shower and a separate water closet, was to the left, with closets lining the right wall.

In the bedroom area, the king-sized bed (quite comfortable, might I add) was flanked by two nightstands and situated across from the 65-inch HD TV and credenza. A couch sat underneath the windows overlooking Michigan Avenue, with a glass-topped table that doubled as the desk perched at the end. A desk chair sat opposite.

All the guestrooms feature Nespresso coffeemakers, in-room movies, Bluetooth A/V technology and a full glassware set.

Services/Amenities: Il Tavolino, at ground level, is a hybrid coffeehouse/Italian café, serving breakfast and lunch. On the 20th floor, Baptiste & Bottle serves breakfast and dinner and a full bar seven days a week. A rooftop restaurant and bar is open seasonally. Each of the three restaurants is by Richard Sandoval. Conrad Chicago offers 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space, with natural light a highlight of the function rooms. The hotel’s location just steps from Michigan Avenue also lends itself to 360-degree city views from around the property. Carly and I both enjoyed workouts in the well-equipped fitness center.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ The hotel robes at Conrad Chicago are, without a doubt, the most sumptuous and comfortable of any hotel robe I’ve ever worn.

◆ Weekend brunch at the lobby-level Baptiste & Bottle is a must — Carly and I enjoyed the unlimited Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar, which boasted myriad toppings, seasonings and juices, and we both agreed the skillet cinnamon rolls were some of the best we’d ever tasted.

◆ The Conrad Chicago recently reopened in its new location on Erie Street. For those who remember the former property, you’ll agree the new location is much more convenient and easy to find.

◆ Our May visit did not coincide with the seasonal opening of Noyane, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant serving contemporary Japanese cuisine, craft cocktails and views of downtown Chicago, but I hope to visit the outpost on a future visit.

Conrad Chicago

101 E. Erie St.
Chicago, IL 60611
tel 312 667 6700
conradchicagohotel.com