Arrival/Check-In: The Conrad Chicago’s lobby is located on the 20th floor. I arrived early in the morning with my colleague, Carly Allen, hoping to get some work done before our first meeting. Our rooms were not ready when we checked in, but the spacious, multi-level lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows and downtown views provided plenty of comfortable spots to connect to the complimentary Wi‑Fi and catch up on emails. The reception team was warm and efficient, and by the time we returned from our first meeting our rooms were ready and our luggage had been delivered.
Guest Quarters: My Michigan Avenue View guestroom felt fresh and immaculately maintained. From the entryway, the bathroom was immediately to the left—finished in light gray granite and featuring a large vanity with double sinks, abundant lighting options, a generous shower and a separate water closet. Closets lined the right wall, offering ample storage.
In the bedroom area, a comfortable king-sized bed sat between two nightstands and faced a 65-inch HD TV mounted above a sleek credenza. A couch beneath the windows overlooked Michigan Avenue, and a glass-topped table at the end of the couch served as a desk. A separate desk chair provided a comfortable workspace. All guestrooms include Nespresso coffeemakers, in-room movies, Bluetooth A/V connectivity and a full set of glassware.
Services/Amenities: Dining options at the Conrad Chicago are varied and well executed. Il Tavolino, at ground level, operates as a hybrid coffeehouse and Italian café, serving breakfast and lunch. Baptiste & Bottle on the 20th floor offers breakfast and dinner along with a full bar seven days a week, and the rooftop restaurant and bar opens seasonally. All three venues are by chef Richard Sandoval. The hotel also provides 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space, with function rooms that benefit from abundant natural light. Its location steps from Michigan Avenue allows for expansive city views from many parts of the property. Carly and I both appreciated the well-equipped fitness center for our workouts.
Top Takeaways:
◆ The hotel robes at the Conrad Chicago are exceptionally plush and comfortable—among the best I’ve experienced.
◆ Weekend brunch at the lobby-level Baptiste & Bottle is notable. Carly and I enjoyed the unlimited Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar, which featured a wide variety of toppings, seasonings and juices. The skillet cinnamon rolls were a particular highlight and among the best we’ve tasted.
◆ The Conrad Chicago recently reopened at its new Erie Street location. For guests familiar with the former property, the new site is easier to find and more convenient.
◆ Our May visit did not align with the seasonal opening of Noyane, the rooftop restaurant offering contemporary Japanese cuisine, craft cocktails and downtown views. I hope to experience it on a future stay.
Conrad Chicago
101 E. Erie St.
Chicago, IL 60611
tel 312 667 6700
conradchicagohotel.com