Set among the historic mansions of the city’s Gold Coast, Thompson Chicago embodies the ideals of the Thompson Hotels brand: classic with eye-catching modernism, luxe yet attainable comfort, and inviting public spaces where both travelers and locals meet and mingle.
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In addition to the hotel’s popular Italian restaurant, hip style and superb location, the Thompson provides top-of-the-line service. In this review, we’ll cover our stay here at one of the best luxury offerings in the City of Chicago.
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Style
Thompson Chicago is all about casual luxury. The lobby, by British designer Tara Bernerd, feels like a gentleman’s living room with hefty bookshelves, upholstered seating and a roaring fireplace. Industrial-chic elements – copper chandeliers with dangling filament lights and the black iron staircase – round out the look. The space is so comfortable and inviting, you’ll want to linger here before dinner or drinks.
Rooms
All 247 and suites in the Thompson are just as elegant as the handsome lobby. Our King Room with Lake View was airy and sported a soothing white, gray, and tan color scheme with contemporary accets, like geometric lamps, off-beat art, and a dusty blue velvet couch. The large bathroom was particularly striking, with gleaming white tiled walls, a dark teal ceiling and walk-in shower. Notably, every room has its own ISP address, so you’ll get top-of-the-line WiFi coverage
Facilities
The 24-Hour fitness center at Thompson Chicago is far from the average hotel gym. You’ll find funky murals on the walls, boxing gear, and refreshments in the form of apples, and water with lemon slices. Sadly, there’s no pool or spa to take advantage of.
Food & Drink
Just off the lobby lies Nico Osteria, an authentic Italian restaurant with a focus on fresh, handmade pasta and impeccable seafood in a rustic and elegant setting. Behind the lobby’s central staircase is Salone Nico, a wine bar and cocktail lounge known for its afternoon aperitifs and low-proof cocktails. The wine list features Italian and Greek wines with an emphasis on small producers and older vintages.
TIP: Both venues are Chicago hotspots, so we do recommend you make a reservation.
Service
The service at Thompson Chicago was polished yet friendly. The concierge can score hot restaurant reservations and show tickets. And all the staff were extremely accommodating.
Location
The Thompson lies in the swanky Gold Coast area with loads of designer shops and posh restaurants around. Rush Street nightlife is less than a block away, and Michigan Avenue, Oak Street Beach and the Museum of Contemporary Art are all within short walking distance.
Address: 21 East Bellevue Place, Chicago.
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Bottom Line
Although Thompson Chicago lacks spa and a pool, the luxury hotel makes up for these shortcomings with its hip, stylish vibe, exceptional dining and a superb location to nightlife and attractions. It’s no wonder the Thompson makes it on our list of the best five-star hotels in Chicago.
Thompson Hotels is a Hyatt brand. Join World of Hyatt to earn free award nights at Thompson Chicago.