Soho House Chicago
"How did it strike you on arrival?Soho House members and the public can book rooms at this buzzy hotel and social club, which is as popular with locals as it is with travelers. By day, creatives clacking away on Macs in the airy lobby of a former factory. By evening, frosty cocktails replace laptops. An innovative hub at all hours. What’s the crowd like?Creatives, a.k.a. non-slacker hipsters. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.You wish your apartment looked like this: an exposed-brick-walled loft space with high ceilings, wood floors, oriental rugs, armchairs you can sink into, and big windows with views. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Top notch. You will sleep well here (you will even nap well if you get one of the larger rooms with the deep couches). How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?A credenza has all you need for a little soiree: cocktail set with crystal decanter and rocks glasses, and a wireless speaker. On the bathroom vanity, you’ll find a collection of travel-sized Soho Skin products, Soho House’s active skincare line inspired by their members. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms are excellent all around but get better as the room gets bigger, topping out in the "big bedrooms" with a freestanding soaking tub, as well as a walk-in rainforest shower. Everyone gets Soho House's collectible Cowshed spa products to lather up with. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Strong Wi-Fi and included. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.While the general public can visit the ground floor restaurants and bars, the entire "House" includes a vast private lounge; the circular Club Bar, a tricked-out gym with a full boxing ring; and a rooftop pool with an attached restaurant accessible to members and hotel guests only. Cowshed spa is a soothing respite from all the scene. Public restaurants are every bit as good as the private ones, especially the bustling Fox Bar and hip lobby bar and restaurant The Allis. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The insider status conferred by a stay here is worth the price of admission. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Entry-level rooms are super reasonable, given the access to resort-style amenities." - Elaine Glusac
