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Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels [Edit]
20 E Chestnut St(between State St & Wabash Ave)
Chicago, IL 60611
Neighborhood: Near North Side
(312) 324-4000
- Nearest Transit:
-
Chicago-Red (Red Line)
Clark/division (Red Line)
Chicago-Brown (Brown Line, Purple Line)
- Price Range:
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$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Paid
126 reviews for Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
Review Highlights
"Le Bar is fantastic as long as you can get a seat."
(in 9 reviews)
"This is also a great location for some Michigan Ave."
(in 8 reviews)
"Breakfast at the Cafe des Architectes was great."
(in 3 reviews)
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125 reviews in English
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Review from Jae H.
San Francisco, CA
1/20/2012
Whether it's for business, interviews or something other than play, this is the perfect place for an unexpected stay or required visit into Chicago. If you're coming here on vacation treat yourself to something like the Four Seasons or at least the Park Hyatt.
Nonetheless it's dirt cheap for a passably luxury hotel. The bedsheets were a bit top scratchy for me to believe they were Frette or Pratesi but they were bearable since I only had to stay here for a night. The L'occitane bath products, frette robe and nice fresh slippers were as expected. The bathrooms are fully marble with a separate soaking tub and shower.
Complementary business alcove in the hotel meant that I could print, fax and surf the net just when I needed it.
Room service is a bit slow but they mean well. Thoughtful even as the valet doorman quickly turned on the heat lamps as he saw I was going to smoke in the front. -
Review from Joe G.
Longwood, FL
1/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Very clean - very convenient, modern, and perfect for our trip.
the rooms and bathrooms are on the small size, not cramped but def similar to what you find in Europe. but everything is like new, super clean, and fresh. can't beat the prices or the location.
All the staff is very courteous and helpful. If you stay there you got to hit Pizanos pizza right next door - that place is awesome! -
Review from Tony H.
Schaumburg, IL
1/8/2012
Luxury at a non-luxury price. I booked in advance and received a good deal. We were celebrating my wife's 50th birthday. When we arrived our room had a chocolate mousse and a white chocolate bar with Happy Birthday written in chocolate. She also had a letter thanking her for celebrating her birthday with them.
We didn't eat there but we did go in the bar. We sat by the fireplace and it was very relaxing. One knock was the stocked refrigerator, $5.00 for a can of diet coke...come on!
The room was nice, most notably the bathroom, we had a tough time with the bed as there was no sheets between the comforter and the mattress cover. We did call and get one, must be the french way...
Overall it was a great stay! -
Review from Michael L.
Chicago, IL
2/4/2012
My girlfriend and I were planning on having a night downtown in the city for our anniversary. We live in the city so rarely do we ever stay at any hotels, so of course we turned to Yelp to help us determine a great hotel to stay at. The Yelp reviews gave this place a 4 star rating and the reviews all seemed very positive.
The lobby is extremely fancy, and they assisted us with our bags immediately from the cab. We had very high hopes at this point. When we went to check in they were extremely polite and gave us our room keys for a room on the 17th floor. However, we had paid extra through http://Hotels.com to get a "high level" room so we brought this up to the desk clerk. She said, "Oh, well you booked through a third-party site and they don't always provide the booking details to us but I will see if I can get you a higher room". She then gave us a room on the 25th floor and we proceeded to our room.
The bell boy brought up our bags and showed us to the room very politely. However, after we got to the room we were very disappointed in the view we had. The desk clerk told us we would have a partial view of the lake. That's a definite understatement, we could barely make out just a small part of the lake. We also were not thrilled about the bathroom like we thought we would be. The tub is is very small, and not a soaker tub. The shower is only large enough for a single person with only one spout. Additionally, the wallpaper was pealing at the top. We thought this was supposed to be a luxury hotel not a Motel 6.
We called the front desk to complain about our room and they very politely indicated they could move us up to the top floor on the 32nd floor. We were happy with this but at the same time we wondered why they didn't offer us the 32nd floor from the beginning since we told them we were looking to be high up and that this was a special occasion. The 32nd floor room was much better view-wise and the wallpaper wasn't pealing in the room.
They have lodge-net movies on the tv but ask $16-$20 for most movies which I thought was fairly pricey. A small bottle of water in the mini-fridge is $6. The room was very clean though and the fixtures in the bath were nice.
The bed was soft but wasn't very comfortable. Also, when we looked on their website it showed a spa, just be aware that the Chicago location doesn't have one. We just both felt that for $200 we didn't get much value for our money. I have stayed at many different types of hotels and if this is considered luxury, I am not impressed. -
Review from Tina R.
Chicago, IL
12/23/2011
Wonderful place to hold a wedding! My husband and I held our ceremony and reception at the Sofitel in September 2011, and we cannot express how grateful we are to them for making our day so wonderful! Especially Rachel, the catering sales manager and our coordinator at the hotel- nothing would have been possible without her constant support and kindness, as well as ability to work smoothly and quickly to accommodate all of our needs. Everything was perfect, from the lovely decor to the exceptional staff to the copious amounts of food. I got fantastic comments from several friends and family about the sincerity and professionalism of the staff, as well as the very very delicious food.
The Sofitel is also a perfect location for all out-of-towners. A block from Michigan Ave, the Hancock Tower, shopping, Gold Coast, tons of restaurants and bars in the area, easy to get to public transportation. The hotel itself is phenomenal- contemporary European decor, lots of open space, fantastic restaurant and bar. The rooms are pretty sizeable and the suites are huge. The bathroom is beautiful, clean and spacious as well (love the Hermes toiletries).
Although a bit pricey for the average stay, it is a perfect location to hold a large event (especially wedding) or for a luxurious weekend away in the heart of Chicago. -
Review from fabrice c.
Chicago, IL
12/11/2011
The restaurant at the Sofitel is simply impeccable (food and services) ,
impeccable!
Fabrice Calmels
http://www.fabricecalm... -
Review from Lindsey F.
Scottsdale, AZ
11/1/2011
During my brief stay in Chicago recently, the Sofitel became the hotel of choice. This hotel is perfectly placed in the heart of the action and just a couple minute walk any which way you turn will get you to great shopping, delicious dining and Chicago exploring. Being just a block from Michigan Avenue, you don't really need to worry about a car or even a taxi to get you around the city.
The hotel itself is incredibly impressive. The architecture looks a little funky on the outside, but once inside you'd never expect it to be so sophisticated, trendy and comfortable. The lobby's spacious and they top it head to toe with beautiful flowers. The staff is friendly, accommodating and makes the experience seamless.
Now let me move on to the rooms. These rooms have everything you could want plus some added touches that offer a sweet surprise. First off, the bathrooms. I walked in to find an individually wrapped loofah waiting for my use in either in the glass shower or individual tub. The bathroom is spacious and immaculately clean. I was also pleased to find individually wrapped koets, Q tips, a shower cap and even nail files as well as L'Occtaine bath products. The bed is heavenly with fluffy pillows, silky sheets and plentiful blankets and a comforter. The room provided a partial view of the lake and of course showed the bustle of the city.
Everything I experienced at the Sofitel was classy, comfortable and enjoyable. I really couldn't have asked for a better experience during my stay.Listed in: Chicago, Hotels From All Around, Traveling All Around, Chicago!
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Review from Liz W.
10/24/2011
Sofitel rocks. You have to like a place that has free orange laden water in the lobby. It's a lovely little bit of happiness.
I visited a very good friend here. I was impressed. Security and staff kind of suck but the place is immaculate and just lovely.
The room was a bit smaller than mine but much hipper and posh. Even the bottled water they stock is the best. The Keurig coffee maker made me so jealous. The seperate shower and tub in the beautiful bathrooms works for me too. All the furniture is comfortable and updated and I just really dug the vibe here.
I would consider a stay here at some point. Well if I were not so happy with the concierges at the Wyndham. My friend was less impressed with his. To me substance always trumps great style.Listed in: Chicago-ish., Hotels and other places to…
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Review from Kathleen C.
Chicago, IL
11/3/2011
So....this is a tough one. I love love this hotel....however, it is pricey, and I mean VERY pricey.
I've actually stayed at the Sofitel twice - my most recent visit was with a work group who all stayed at the property. I was given a room on one of the very upper floors with a fantastic view...so, really, who wouldn't be happy?
My room was gorgeous, perfectly clean and pretty large. My view was of the lake and surrounding skyline and it couldn't have been better (well, unless I had the penthouse!). The bathroom was also beautiful, with a huge tub and separate shower and a really nicely sized sink. It was also spotlessly clean.
All in all, the accommodations are luxurious and well appointed. The location is also hard to complain about as you have easy access all around the city.
My only few small comments...
For us, breakfast was included, but the continental breakfast, at $19 (normal price) is very expensive and the service is exceedingly slow. The pastries are delicious, but I'm not sure if the value is there (less pastry, maybe some fruit???).
We also visited the bar, and there is very little on the beverage menu that is reasonably priced. There are tons of bars in the city where there is a shot at at least getting a wine in the $7 range...not here. Our bar bill for only a few of us was astronomical (and we weren't drinking that much).
The staff was great (aside from the slow server mentioned above).
A great hotel in the city, but find breakfast and drinks elsewhere.Listed in: Travel!
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Review from Harvey H.
Chicago, IL
10/31/2011
Let's just say complete French Luxury.
I stepped into the Sofitel after realizing my apartment probably isn't a safe place to be (after the ransacking and the attack outside of Walmart I figured somebody was after me and it has to have something to do with this envelope). Also, it seems that my review where I talk about the ransacking has been removed from the AMC yelp page. I don't know what's going on, but it's something big.
But, if I need a place to hide out, doing it in luxury is the only way to do it. As I came in through the doors I was greeted by the scent of Le'Occitane (however you spell it) and the sweet sounds of French dip thongs.
The bathroom is almost as big as the room, and I love bathrooms. I think bathrooms are what make hotels and what breaks them. Do you see five stars above this review? I think you do. Guess what that means? A rock star bathroom with views of the lake.
Then the concierge. OO la la, as the French would say. I needed to know some places that were classy but I could lay low. She just came through for me. A concierge like this could make Yelp obsolete (OH NO!)
Still no word from Noelle. I'm have moved beyond being super worried and am now freaking out. I just have no idea what to do and I'm afraid to go to the police. What if it's nothing? What if I'm overreacting? I don't even know what I'd tell the police.
One weird thing about the hotel is that my room phone keeps ringing and and when I pick it up there's just silence on the other end. I've called down about it and the front desk can't seem to do anything.
Finally a call did come through though and it was Noelle's dad. Haven't heard from him in a while! He said to meet at some place called "The Drawing Room" tomorrow at 5pm. It's right near the hotel! The Sofitel is in the heart of Chicago.
Harvey Out -
Review from Kenny O.
10/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Very picturesque hotel found in an enviable location.
The decor speaks class and it's a place to be seen at.
The amenities here are great -- the hotel restaurant is solid and the hotel bar is one of the best I've been to (I still like the one at The Peninsula a lot more).
The Sofitel is definitely near the top on my list of favorite Chicago hotels. -
Review from Liz H.
Austin, TX
8/25/2011
My husband and I and 2 friends stayed at the Sofitel last weekend. We got a special deal - we paid $800 in advance for a standard room for 3 nights. First the negatives about the hotel:
1. We were explicitly told that we were in a no smoking room (no problem for us) but when we got to our room the whole place REEKED of cigarette smoke. [the staff was very responsive when we mentioned this; they offered to move us to another room or put an ionizer in our room to remove the smell. We opted for the ionizer]
2. Virtually no cell phone coverage in the hotel. A lot of the texts we sent to our friends in another room to coordinate dinner and other events didn't go through while we were in the hotel. For this reason alone I wouldn't stay here again.
3. They charge for WiFi. At a "luxury" hotel, that is just inexcusable.
4. A standard room - really the bathroom - isn't really large enough for a couple to get ready for a night out at the same time. Only one sink and one mirror....it was a little challenging to coordinate my husband's shaving with my makeup application. If you stay at this hotel with your significant other I would recommend asking for a room with a larger bathroom and more vanity/mirror space if they have them.
On the positive side, the rooms were clean, the beds were comfortable, sheets were nice, they use L'Occitane products (which I love) in the bathroom, and the A/C got as cold as we wanted it to.
The hotel lobby is beautiful.
The bartenders (Kevin in particular) were great and the food in the hotel restaurant was good and reasonably priced. At dinner on Saturday night the chef came out and talked to us at dinner and even made us a special desert which was complimentary because he didn't feel we received our entrees quickly enough. We thought we got the food in plenty of time and were surprised that the Chef wasn't satisfied and felt that he went above and beyond in making us a delicious and free desert to compensate.
Overall a decent experience but the phone coverage/WiFi issue is a deal breaker for me since there are a lot of luxury hotels in Chicago to choose from. -
Review from G S.
Chicago, IL
9/2/2011
I can't begin to rave enough about this amazing hotel.
The staff does a superb job making sure that all your requests are met beyond your expectations. I made a last minute reservation here, and they made sure everything was taken care of.
They included a 4pm late check out and sent champagne and chocolate covered strawberries as their way of saying thank you for staying there.
Their breakfast was delicious, with the croissants beings warm and flaky and every aspect of the service being wondeful.
I stayed in a junior suite which was spacious, luxuxiour and had stunning views.
I love this place, my only complaint is that I wish they had suites with two beds so I could bring my sister and mom here! -
Review from Katerina M.
Cincinnati, OH
4/18/2011
I travel almost every month and stay in lots of hotels...
I have stayed at the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower many times. This is a fabulous, trendy and sophisticated place.
Room has all clean lines of modern decor and a feather-bed to die for, it is one of the nicest beds I have ever slept in.
I would not choose to stay anywhere else in Chicago but in Sofitel. -
Review from John I.
6/20/2011
A quick comment on their food....
I was there for an evening of food and drink and was thoroughly impressed. The presentation, freshness and thoughtful selection was excellent. Items ranged from fresh sushi rolls to hand carved sandwiches.
I highly recommend the food at the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, especially in the reception environment.
Best of luck! -
Review from Heather H.
Chicago, IL
4/11/2011
So I was super excited to go to the Sofitel for my fiances surprise birthday weekend in the city. I was very excited to come to The Sofitel because teh pictures looked so very cool. The rooms looked nice and I had a "junior suite"...how could I go wrong??? Oh boy........
I had the crap view, my "junior suite" which was 700 sq ft, yah 500 sq ft was the hallway and bathroom. I think the bathroom was bigger than the sleeping area. With such a large bathroom you would expect the best...right? Wrong!!!!!! Mini tub that was good for nothing, the stand up shower gave me bruises all over my body because every turn I made I knocked into the door knob. Super small stand up...like terribly small...even for one person. The bathroom has shutter doors...thats nice...I went paranoid going to the bathroom. Walls were made of kleenex....you could hear everything. Sofa was so small. The furniture was made for midgets. Worst room ever. I was so not happy. For that much I could have went to Trump Towers and paid the same price.
Bed was ok but nothing to ride home about. Below average room for a downtown room. Dont be misled by the word "suite". Worth time ever. Total waste of what could have been. 700 sq ft my @ss. -
Review from Ben F.
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
6/16/2011
Everything about the Sofitel speaks of luxury and class. The rooms are very clean and the service is fantastic. My wife and I had a great time when we stayed here. They have a great room service package that includes a "movie night." This room service package has fresh popped popcorn, candy, and your choice of soda.
Located just blocks from the John Hancock building it seems like each room has a great view of the city. Everything that is downtown seems within walking distance but if not it is very close to the Red Line which is cheap to ride.
Overall, the Sofitel is an amazing hotel that I would highly recommend. My wife and I enjoyed our stay and will stay again in the future. -
Review from Mitesh P.
2/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
A hotel that's almost perfect except for one important failing - Weak shower pressure.
Pros
1)Comfortable beds. Great linens, nice feather bed on top of the mattress. It feels like you are sleeping on top of a cloud.
2) Really nice decor. Feels more like a 5 star hotel with the colors, quality materials, sued like sofa, leather desk chair, marble bathroom, brass fittings, fine woods, etc.
3) really clean and new. Even the carpet smelled new. This place is pristine.
4) Very friendly staff. The people here are the best.
5) excellent food. The French always bring good dining to hotels. You can be assured of a very nice breakfast here.
Cons
1) Weak shower pressure. It's like showering under a leaking pipe. That's how little water comes out. An important let down for a very nice hotel. I docked 2 stars for this. -
Review from Underhill T.
Middleton, WI
Updated - 5/31/2011
Another wonderful stay at the Sofitel! Everything we remembered from our last stay and more.
Extremely comfortable bed! This becomes more important to us when we travel as we have two young children - we don't get much sleep at our house!
I happened to mention to the woman who was checking us in that we were in town to celebrate my wife's birthday. The following day, we returned from an afternoon on Michigan Avenue to find a birthday cake for my wife in the room - compliments of the hotel. A very nice gesture and a delicious cake too.
This trip we sauntered down to Le Bar for a couple cocktails and a little food. The bartenders were friendly and efficient. The setting was very nice.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/28/2010
Great location!
Clean, modern room. Extremely comfortable bed. Very attentive and pleasant staff.… Read more »
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Review from Carina B.
New York, NY
6/9/2011
I stayed here for one night on business. Very pleasant stay. Nice, clean, spacious room. Comfortable bed. Friendly staff. This is a nice hotel that I would defintiely stay at again.
Very close to Loyola Marymount. Also near N Michigan Ave. Very good shopping and restaurants near by.
Satisfied guest! -
Review from Eric N.
Chicago, IL
10/11/2011
This hotel is as good as it gets. Stayed there on a "staycation" on our anniversary, and everything about it was perfect. The room was comfortable, the lobby was outstanding, and the brunch was probably the best I've ever had anywhere in Chicago. The bar is classy with good staff, and the hotel staff was attentive but not overbearing. Not much else to say because everything was perfect. Book in advance, and you can get a decent price on the rooms. 5 stars without hesitation.
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Review from dea a.
1/8/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I LOVE Sofitel.
By far my favorite hotel chain to ever exist. They are known for their fantastic feathery beds and their always amazing bathrooms. I've been to the Sofitel in Ghent, Mo'orea and Montreal -- and after my visit to the one in Chicago, I'm still a die-hard Sofitel fan.
I came here after Thanksgiving for just a night to wind down, shop and eat. I love that the Mag Mile is just a block away. Seriously, you cannot get a better location.
I am a little disappointed with the less than stellar bathroom that I've grown used to. And the service was just not up to par at the front desk. And it took forever to get the car from valet. I was downright insulted by my service at the Des Artes cafe that's within the hotel, but that's for another review.
Overall, we got a steal. Nice view, great room, fantastic feathery bed, and one of the best locations in the loop! -
Review from Debra S.
Cook, IL
7/7/2011
I had guests stay here when they were visiting our company on business. My experience booking the room, communicating with the reservation staff on a mis bill situation and correction, and dealing with Management on the same issue was nothing short of comical... And not in a good way. The customer service from various areas was embarrassingly bad. When I escalated my misbill situation to the Manager of the hotel when the reservation manager didn't return my calls, he, quite literally, laughed at me on the phone.
I clocked 6 phone calls and no returned calls before my situation was resolved. I will never book guests here again. The are too many great hotels in the area that actually appreciate my business.
On the positive side, the rooms are nice, elegant, and clean. That is the ONLY reason for any stars. -
Review from Cameron B.
Houston, TX
10/26/2010
I have stayed here a few times while traveling on business. The rooms are so comfortable and luxurious! With the closet and drawer space that I can actually use and the fluffy white bedding, I always feel comfortable here and sleep well through the night.
My only small complaint is I wish the food was better. I ordered room service on time and got a steak salad, which was fabulous, however being a "French" menu there wasn't much else on the menu that I cared to try. Being a Texas girl all French food just seems bland to me. -
Review from Jack S.
Columbia, MO
9/7/2011
This is everything a classy and sophisticated modern urban hotel should be. Top notch staff that were very knowledgable, the most comfortable bed I've experienced in a hotel, and a true posh feeling throughout the entire place. It has a French flare, but not to worry, it's not the douchy French type.
Le Bar was excellent, and served really great cocktails. If you are visiting Chi-town with a significant other, this hotel should be a top pick. The value for this hotel was also outstanding, as I received a rate that left me feeling financially intact to actually enjoy my trip in the city and not blow everything on such a nice room.
Location is brilliant, and within walking distance of the best shops and surrounded by some really great restaurants. Cheers to the Sofitel, or whatever the heck the French would say. -
Review from Tio S.
La Grange, IL
7/22/2011
Awesome hotel. Stayed here with my wife for our wedding anniversary. Very good value for the price, in a great location. The hotel itself is very clean, lobby has tons of fresh cut flowers (my wife loved that). Service at the bar on a Saturday wasn't great, but they did have some good, strong cocktails. I had a corporate rate of $155/night, which is an awesome rate considering what you get. For the price and location, you can't go wrong. I'll be back again.
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Review from Raquel D.
10/11/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Went to the Wedding Salon Event here and it was fab! This hotel is Swaaaanky! But not pretentious. Everyone is so nice and kind and the staff treats everyone with respect. Loves it.
And it's also gorgeous with good food and a nice bar. It's spacious and has a European, boutique flair. I love this hotel - it was my 2nd choice for a wedding and everytime I come here, I feel a linger of regret... -
Review from Jaycee C.
Tustin, CA
8/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Loved it! Good location and rooms are really nice.
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Review from Dakota F.
Indianapolis, IN
8/15/2010
The Sofitel is a gorgeous hotel with a welcoming door staff and amazing bar.
I met a friend here for drinks and it was gorgeous. The decor is nice and the dim lighting is cool. The bartender was super friendly and told me all about the drink specials and what I ordered. Really friendly to my boyfriend too; just a nice guy all around.
The cool thing about this place was that I looked around the bar and saw all sorts of people. Old men and their golddigging girlfriends, young guys, business women, and cool hip cats like myself.
I really liked this place. Would recommend it for dranks. -
Review from Michael F.
Columbus, GA
11/1/2010
Stayed here last January. It was a very nice place with typical conveniences for an upscale hotel. I don't normally stay at places without using a military discount, but I figured I would try it out.
The bed was great. The only problem I have is that the only thing that really stood out to me was the help I got from the Concierge. I came in somewhat late on a Friday night and was looking for a good yoga studio for the next morning. She was very polite and pulled up a few different studios in the area, printed off schedules and had them under my door by the time I got out of the shower.
I had a great time, but next time I'm in town, I think I'll try something different. -
Review from Lester R.
Cupertino, CA
6/9/2010
Average $300.00 per night midweek but someone else was paying. I am a kept man.
Pluses-
Here for 3 nights on business as I was bumped from the Park Hyatt nearby. Staff professionally friendly and pronounced my German last name correctly 5 times out of 6 which is a new record. Enjoyed the Evian water with the turndown service. Furnishings upscale minimalist. Bathroom feels semi spa'ish, bed very comfortable and desk area easy to work at.
Minuses-
Doormen and or bellhops a little spotty on the entrance door opening but it has to be hard with doors on each side of a revolving door. When ordering a room service hamburger remember the French think Medium Rare is Rare
I would like to be able to afford to come back to Chicago for fun and stay here again. -
Review from Aurore L.
5/26/2009
**** I changed it to a 5-star experience because for the price I paid ($172) that was really a fantastic deal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!***
A little taste of France in Chicago...........that is why I chose the Sofitel for our stay-cation.
I am glad I did. Oh oui!!
Sofitel in my mind is a compound word between sophisticate (SOFI) and hotel (just in case you were wondering it works in French too. You are quite welcome). This one totally fits the bill even if at first the somewhat tortured architecture may you have thinking otherwise. The lobby is very modern and sleek, very open and airy but dark at the same time. It is indeed very possible..........black floors and minimum lighting but tall mirrors, lots of plants and thick, warm-colored rugs.
Beautiful.
The lovely lady at the desk welcomed us with a vibrant "Bonjour!", checked our reservation and announced us that we had a room on the 32nd floor.........
Jackpot!!!!
Our "luxury" bedroom on the last floor had a north-east orientation with views of the lake, the city and the intimate interiors of some gorgeous condos (I was good though and didn't peep out too much. Word). It was very quiet and impeccably clean.
The room itself was on a smaller side and the decoration was minimalist, subdued but tasteful.
BUT.
LADIES.
THE BATHROOM!!!
Almost as big as the room itself, with a tub, a separate shower and beige marble floors and counter-tops.........exquisite surprise.
"Les avantages":
- L'Occitane bath products; verbena scented. Lots of them. Like, tons.
- a nice hair-dryer WITH a diffuser. Detail maybe but it is all about them, right?
- plush towels, bathrobes and comfy slippers. Yes, yes, yes.
- nice wooden double door in the bathroom. You feel like a star when you get out of there, either all dressed up or in a towel. Loved the feeling!
- a close-up mirror to make me realize how badly I need an eyebrow wax.
- a Bose alarm clock that we happily didn't use
- a nice flat-screen TV with all the channels you want. I think.
- big, very fluffy pilows - just the way I like them.
- a CS AND a France magazines in which we learned all about the old-fashioned French aperitifs.........seriously interesting and incredibly frustrating since it just made us want to leave right away.
- late check-out on demand. Not a problem.
- the views. Again.
"Les inconvenients":
- the bed was not the most comfortable.......I slept like a baby but if you don't like soft mattresses, you will have a hard time.
- only one armchair......hmmm....
You need to do this.
Even in the city - a true escape from your ordinary life.
Je ne regrette rien.Listed in: City Central, French connection, Rooms with a view
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Review from Erin P.
Chicago, IL
6/18/2009
Happy graduation to me! What better than to celebrate my accomplishment than by spending the weekend at a nice hotel and eating at a fabulous restaurant? Through Perfect Escapes (I know corny right?) I got a deal on a room here with the option (if available) to check in extremely early and check out extremely late! Although we stayed one night, with the early in and late out it felt like we were there the whole weekend! I opted to pay the extra $20 for the "upper level" room and it was worth it. We were on the 29th floor, out of 32 and the view was amazing- even as a Chicago resident I loved looking out the window at the skyline.
The bed was amazing- so comfortable, fluffy and wonderful. I could have stayed in it for days. The bathroom was beautiful with a separate tub and standalone shower and lots of l'occitane amenities for your using. I also enjoyed the huge flat screen TV and small sitting area in the room. Throughout our stay we called to have for champagne flutes, wine glasses and a wine opener sent up. Each time the service was fast, nice and attentive when they arrived. Breakfast room service was also fabulous. Great French pastries and chive and lime cream cheese to go with my bagel and lox? More please!
I could not have imagined a better place to spend my weekend.Listed in: Hotels Where I Wanted to Move…
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Review from Gabi M.
8/4/2008
Staying at Sofitel Chicago was a definite treat for me... it was kind of a bummer that I was staying alone since this is the kind of place you want your significant other to enjoy with you!
Since we booked approximately 2 months in advance, we were able to secure pretty good rates online. (That is, if you consider $255 a night good... which for this hotel in the prime time Chicago Summer, really is a deal!) I really did feel like a VIP staying here - it was high end everything and gorgeous! Best location too!
The rooms were lavish, and I slept like a baby both nights in the huge king size bed... the sheets were soft, pillows just right, and I felt soooo comfy! I used the workout room one of the mornings - although a bit small, it has great equipment and was just enough to get in a good cardio / weight session before my busy day in Chi-town!
The only negative I will say is that I came in after a day of travel in my very casual clothes and with a backpack and I felt like I was getting some looks (as if I didn't belong)... I hate that! Also, the front desk people were friendly but it was kind of a fake friendly if you know what i mean. I thought that internet was included in my room rate because on my confirmation it said 'high speed internet' but they said it was just on the confirmation to say that it was available (for an additional cost). Oh well - they got me there!
I would for sure return to Sofitel Chicago Water Tower or any Sofitel for that matter... actually, I hope the rates don't go too high so I can afford to stay at another Sofitel in the future!Listed in: Home Away From Home...
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Review from Denton J.
Chicago, IL
12/14/2006
Having been to Le Bar at the Hotel Sofitel several time, I have to say it's one of my favorite places to get a drink in the area.
I really enjoy the modern elegance and decor of the lobby. Clean lines, warm colors and contrasting woods and metals make it a pleasure on the eyes.
The dark bar has wonderful mood lighting, and I especially enjoy the small lights--like stars--in the ceiling. The music is loud enough to enjoy when you desire, but low enough to not interfere with conversation.
The drink selection is robust enough to find something satisfactory. I think we've only ever ordered the cheese plate, when it comes to food, but it was certainly enjoyable. However, when you have a table and order drinks, they always bring out a little dish of olives and crackers which is often enough for us.
All around, one of the better places for drink in the area. -
Review from Caroline A.
Chicago, IL
8/6/2007
This might be my second favorite hotel in Chicago.
We had a romantic weekend getaway at the Sofitel, and I was pretty impressed. Most everything about this hotel is pleasant.
The lobby smells SO good. Coming in from a hot and muggy afternoon, the cool floral breeze immediately puts you into "sexy" good mood. Design is very contemporary. Almost too contemporary for my taste, but very well done.
The room was much larger than I thought. Very simple design, soft comfortable bed, and uber luxurious Frette bed linens. The bathroom reminded me of a mini Peninsula bathroom. It had a nice shower (too small though), soaking bath (too shallow) and a phone next to the toilet (with a speaker button and a mute button). Those Frenchies are such smart cookies! I love the French bath products (can't remember the name), but it was an oatmeal scent that was subtle and clean smelling. Frette towels and bathrobes of course ;)
We ordered room service twice. Once for brunch. I had a yummy raisin brioche french toast. It was very good, but not the best. BF had the crab cake benedict. It came out to be very small. Almost the size of a silver dollar. But it was pretty good. We also got some soft pretzels and jelly beans for our movie night. Note: the pretzels are not soft. They are almost the freeze and toast variety that come out being hard as a rock if you don't eat them right away.
Overall, the stay was very nice. Now if they can only have free wifi.
PS. NO cell coverage in the hotel!Listed in: Chicago Hospitality
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Review from Carrie S.
3/15/2010
Hotel conferences are generally awful from the food and accomodations. Everyone knows the experience of uncomfortable chairs, frigid rooms, and lackluster food. The Sofitel Chicago Water Tower defies these descriptions. Last week, I attended an International Women's Day conference here and was throughly impressed with the hotel.
My excellent day started with valets opening the door onto the gorgeous hotel. Walking in their posh lobby, I got that "oh ah" feeling from its modern decor. I walked up a white frosted staircase to the conference rooms. The Sofitel's bathrooms are throughly modern too. It reminded me of a women's lounge with sinks and seating separate from the toilets.
The most noteworthy part of my conference here is the food. It's one of the best hotel breakfast and lunches I've ever had. The breakfast consisted of a number of pastries and fruit. My chocolate croissant was light and flaky. It helped hold me over until their amazing lunch. For my lunch, I had a steak tenderloin sandwich and croque monsieurs with a frisee salad. These sandwiches were so tasty and far beyond the typical sandwiches spread I've experienced at other conferences. They served the most delicious iced tea as well. I want that iced tea everyday, it was so refreshing and tasty.
The dessert assortment ranged from walnut brownies to lemon bars. I was a little disappointed in the desserts being a little too nut heavy (adults have nut allergies too). I told this to my event planner coworker. Despite this, I ate a lemon bar and a raspberry bar. Both of them were delicious.
The Sofitel is a nice departure from the typical, old school hotel. There's no heavy, lush carpeting and dark wooded interiors here. Instead, it's light, airy, and oh so modern. For conference food, the Sofitel wins! I'd gladly sit through lectures and panels for a chance to enjoy some of their delicious fare and modern decor. -
Review from Scott L.
Carson City, NV
6/26/2011 1 photo
Outstanding. The service is top notch, the lobby is great as are most of the public spaces. A spacious room and comfortable bed. For Chicago locations one of the best in terms of nearby food: try ING Cafe, Tempo, El Souk, Johnny's Grill. All are within 1/2 mile or so.
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Review from Jason L.
2/8/2008
My most recent trip to Chicago officially confirmed for me that "boutique" hotels are overrated. Sofitel's French influence is initially charming and staff is very friendly. But countless details are lost in the attempt to create a posh experience.
For example, the TV remote control still didn't work after I called the front desk and a maintenance person came to fix it. Their cable TV doesn't have Bravo so I missed Project Runway! Ugh! ;) I couldn't get any cell phone reception (Cingular/ATT) inside the building my entire three day stay, and the electricity blew out once in the middle of the night just in my room of course. I'd never had that happen before anywhere.
They take "aroma therapy" too far. The lobby wreaks of some kind of spice, and the soaps in the bathrooms are very stinky. So if that bothers you like it does me, bring your own toiletries and hold your nose as you walk through the lobby.
I had a big issue with the bathrooms. I was staying at the hotel for a conference with 30 people from my company and was sharing a room with a person I had met once or twice. The bathroom door in our room was a double door type. Like I want my bathing experience in an upscale hotel to be like walking into a country-western saloon! There is also a quarter inch gap between the saloon bathroom door panels and you can see straight to the toilet even when they are fully closed. Additionally if you leave one of the panels open at more than a 45 degree angle, it jams into the main door of the hotel room and you can't get in or out. And although the shower and counter tops are a very nice granite, they felt it was an unnecessary expense to install a privacy fan. I call it a courtesy fan because it works both ways, but every hotel bathroom should have one.
On par with many mediocre hotels, after staying more than two nights you begin to notice how "dried out" you are. The air system in the rooms constantly blows wind and even more so than most hotels I felt like my sinuses were stranded in the desert and my skin was a wreck after a very short stay. The pillow-top bed was too squishy, there was only a comforter, no top sheet (!?) and the pillows themselves were tiny and had no shape.
I know I'm a picky customer so take this review with a grain of salt. It's a pretty building full of pretty people. But attention to basic amenities left me yearning for a Best Western where at least I know I can walk in and immediately "relax" because it's a "hotel". -
Review from Kat C.
Mountain View, CA
8/31/2006
I hear Sofitel and i immediately think Motel 6.
Sofitel Chicago Water Tower is no Motel 6. The doormen here are beyond helpful. The cafe & lobby bar are great spots to pick up a complimentary coffee or pre happy hour greyhound. And the staff's more than ready to accommodate. The hotel screwed up our reservation, and provided us w/ room service. Now normally room service can equate mediocre food that arrives lukewarm. Not at SCWT! We tried just about everything on the Brunch menu, and every dish was delicious and served hot! Points were definitely scored here.
The Executive Suite's spacious and homey. The pull out sofa bed is the best pull out i have ever laid my back on. They even send an attendant to set up the pullout for you, complete w/ real sheets and a down mattress pad. The bathroom's gigantic, big enough to hold a party if you wanted.
2 blocks from Michigan Ave., you got H&M steps away in case you want to pick up a disposable outfit, an Adidas Originals store if youre dying for some shelltops, and to your tummy & liver's content, a bounty of bars & eats in the Gold Coast district.
Basically, it's a top notch hotel, where the noses aren't turned up.Listed in: Fei Mao's Watering Holes
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