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The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, A Four Seasons Hotel
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels [Edit]
160 E Pearson StWater Tower Place
(between Michigan Ave & Mies Vander Rohe Way)
Chicago, IL 60611
Neighborhoods: Near North Side, Streeterville
(312) 266-1000
- Nearest Transit:
-
Chicago-Red (Red Line)
Grand-Red (Red Line)
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
63 reviews for The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, A Four Seasons Hotel
Review Highlights
"They provide L'Occitane products in the bathrooms."
(in 3 reviews)
"...one of the most comfortable bed I have ever encountered."
(in 3 reviews)
"And of course, the perfect space for our wedding night."
(in 5 reviews)
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63 reviews in English
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Review from Amanda W.
1/20/2012
I checked out of the hotel at an ungodly hour of the morning and, in my stupor, ended up forgetting my padfolio in the cab when it dropped me off at Yolk (best breakfast ever!). I called the Ritz and they put me in touch with the doorman. He remembered the cab driver and, when that guy pulled up again, he rescued my padfolio and called me to say he had it! Kind of a miracle, no?
I swung by on the way to my interview, got my padfolio, and tipped the doorman $5. Writing this, I feel bad for not giving him more. -
Review from Sharee M.
12/15/2011
Deca Bar is very nice for a jazzy time in Chi!
IJazz Radio has free jazz at the Deca Bar on Friday nights. So you know I had to try it out. Though the bar did not start on time, the place was great, the food was gos food, and the wine was tasty. I tried a new wine line, Dr. Hermann (white); it was sweet, wet, and smooth. The price was a little above what I usually pay for wine ($9), but this was ok. I then tried something on the menu; the pork sliders. This was really good and I enjoyed each bite. I also like that nuts were served with the drinks...thanks for this!
The space is so pretty. The were lots of seating around (comfy too). The sound for the music was also good. I liked that even though this bar is close to the hotel restaurant, you really can not hear them on the other side. Staff was good, service was ok.
My only improvement would be for the hotel to have some professional signage about were the event was taking place. A few staff members did not know that the even is placing place nor its time. To my knowledge, it is open to the public, so we need to be aware of where we are going. Deca Bar was not listed in the ads by IJazz, so that is something all parties can work on.
Other than that, I had a great time here at the Deca Bar and I can still taste those pork sliders...yum! -
Review from Lauren G.
Chicago, IL
12/14/2011
My mother and sister in law attended afternoon tea here last weekend. We had done it before 2 years prior and found it to be one of the better teas offered in the city. Unfortunately, they've changes some things around and we experienced terrible service.
Last time when there was an afternoon tea we were in the section underneath/surround by all the windows with city views. This time, we were told our reservation for tea was in their itty bitty, open and uncharismatic restaurant. Points lost for change of scene and seeing the city. Then, there was no harpist or carolers or anything that represented this quaint holiday tradition. Instead it just sounded like we were in a field house.
All that aside, the service was terrible. Especially considering it's the Ritz...I would think they'd have people kissing your ass left and right. We were 10 mins early for our 4pm reservation, and yet weren't sat until 4:20. This is only after we witnessed the entire 'lobby' (by the fountain) clear out and everyone else sat that had come after us....I actually went up to the host and pointed this out to which he brought us to a table that wasn't set.
The wait staff was horrific throughout the entire experience. We spoke to about 4 different servers, each bringing something different. Our original server that took our order, never came back to get our wine order. We had to flag him down. No one ever came by to check in on us, or worse, refill our wine glasses. We grabbed a bus boy to do so. Then when the check came, it sat for 20 minutes and when still no one had come by to pick it up, we had to flag down yet another waiter to run the card.
Never again Ritz. -
Review from Dylan H.
Chicago, IL
1/27/2012
Absolutely best hotel in Chicago. Wonderful service, wonderful staff, nice atmosphere and good vibe. Of course, the prices are high, but definitely worth it.
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Review from Carol K.
11/10/2011
Service. It is truly what sets apart the Ritz chain of hotels from other hotels.
You see it in the smallest ways. The front desk clerk coming from behind the counter to personally hand you your key. The doorman who runs back to your valet parked car to grab a bag you forgot and then brings it to the meeting room you are in. The staff cleaning the public restrooms who greets you when you enter and says good bye when you leave.
All small gestures . . . .but gestures that don't go unnoticed.
The rooms are not as opulent as they might have once seemed as other chains have picked up their game but they are nice. Oh sure, the rooms are over sized, and have a bed with the best pillows, linens and duvets but they don't feel "over the top" as I used to think Ritz hotels were.
The bathrooms are adorned with marble and feature L'Occitane products which are always appreciated. And the deep tub is always welcome in a world of hotel rooms that is quickly becoming a "shower nation".
Internet is free and there is a small mini bar in the room. What was missing for me, though, was coffee in the room. I know I could call and have a pot delivered to me, but i just wanted to slurp down a cup without all the hassle of getting dressed, etc.
Many of the meeting rooms have terrific views of the lake and of the city. Even the staff that work the private banquet functions are super friendly and nice, helping to do whatever you need even before you know that you need it.
So I'll end as I began. At the Ritz, it's all about the service. And while that model has been copied by many of the high end resorts that I have the privilege to visit, it is still evident in everything that they do here. And that is much appreciated by this "road weary" traveler!Listed in: Now I lay me down to sleep (in…
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Review from carlos a.
WOW.
Best hotel I've ever stayed at.
I tend to like modern / minimalist hotels and while the Ritz wasn't that it struck a nice balance between old elegance and modern.
The service was PHENOMENAL. The staff were what tipped the scale. Everyone was friendly and helpful. They help elevators open for you. Loved turn down service. Concierge was friendly when I asked for advice on places to eat. Facilities were great (nice pool and lobby). Location was convenient. The views facing lake Michigan were awesome. Loved that you could get your shoes shines for free by leaving them in a bag.
My girlfriend joked that if they could legally walk you to the bathroom and hold your hand they would. It was a joke but exemplary of the extent to which they value customer service.
Everything just came together. Very impressed.
Video: View from our room: http://www.flickr.com/...
Also, was very happy with the free wireless ( wifi ). It was slow but if that bothers you it is only $10 a day for faster wireless. -
Review from Parisa A.
9/22/2011
Not my favorite. This hotel is old and is starting to show its age.
Minus one star because it doesn't feel completely clean to me, though I can't quite describe why.
Minus another star because there's no coffee in the lobby in the mornings and the walk to Michigan Avenue, though only half a block, feels really long for some reason.
Picky, I know, but I just don't see why one would stay here when the Four Seasons on Delaware is so much better. -
Review from Lindsey F.
Scottsdale, AZ
6/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
It would be a sin to give this Ritz anything but five stars. Everything is flawless there. It's almost too flawless. From the valet's perfectly tailored clothing to the decor with not a smidgen of dirt to be found anywhere, this Ritz puts on the Ritz in their own hotel.
I must admit, I felt a little grungy when I was a guest here at the Ritz and I'm far from a grungy person. But even wearing sundresses and pants with nice tops didn't seem to be quite elegant enough for the Ritz. Had I known, I would have packed my pearls and worn tailored dresses the whole time. That's what everyone else was wearing at least. The men were in suits or should I say, "casual suits" during the day and the women were in the same. We were about 30 years younger than any other guest at the Ritz so maybe that's why we got so many looks. But attitudes and guest attire aside, this hotel is spectacular.
The lobby is on the 12th floor of the Water Tower so don't let the street entrance fool you. That's just a precursor to the glory. You exit the first group of elevators and enter a majestic setting of floor to ceiling windows and a huge lobby, lounge and restaurant overlooking the city of Chicago with the first view being of the Hancock building. Plus, don't forget about the Roman-like fountain placed perfectly in the center of the lobby.
The rooms are just as magical as the lobby. Everything is clean. Everything is quiet. I didn't hear one peep from one guest or staffer my entire stay. It's like you enter into your own little royal world when you stay in a room at the Ritz.
Some highlights include:
- The beds. Oh heaven...the beds. I could have slept my way through vacation but the city of Chicago deserves more from me.
- The bath products. They provide L'Occitane products in the bathrooms. Splendid.
- The service. Completely perfect and professional from the minute of check-in to check out and this includes the run in with the maids and the valet giving me an umbrella when it started to rain.
Some tips: If you are looking for five star service, in a five star setting, in the heart of Chicago, you can't do much better than the Ritz. Be sure to find time to sit in the lounge/bar area overlooking the city for a drink and if you are there on Sunday and have the time and funds, enjoy the Sunday brunch. I didn't eat it, but the smells and appearance told me it's worth every penny!
So goodbye Ritz, until hopefully one day when I can visit again. I promise next time, I'll remember to pack my pearls!Listed in: Chicago
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Review from Leonidas C.
Chanhassen, MN
12/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love the Ritz.. Service is by far second to none. This my 2nd time back and it was we enjoyed relaxing in our comfortable bed after a LONG day shopping with my wife. (And I mean long) We enjoy the helpful staff and all around great service. Our linens were replenished and fresh when we returned to our room.
We will be back again next year and can't wait! A bit pricey but worth it! -
Review from Kevin N.
6/3/2011 3 Check-ins Here
They are super kid friendly at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, and color me impressed: from check-in to check-out, this Four Seasons Chicago extension felt pitch perfect throughout. And I don't know why this isn't the norm, but it was really amazing to stay at a top flight hotel without feeling like the little one was an extra burden. She went everywhere we went, and they could not have been more accommodating.
Some interesting sidebars: as the Ritz is right off Michigan Ave, even though you're in tourist central there's loads of shopping nearby if that's your thing, and some great restaurant options as well. I especially liked the idea that they'll rent an iPad 2 to you for twenty bucks a day if you want some high tech help seeing the city, and were it not for the fact that my face is usually affected by the pallor of my computer screen all too often, I'd have rented one, too. The lounge is spacious, opens up to the panoramic windows besides, and the service was prompt without looming. But in the end, often these stays are about the rooms themselves, and the one we stayed in couldn't have been more comfortable. Request a lake view if you can.Listed in: Hotels, Exploring Chicago, Chicago Hotels
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Review from Kelly O.
Manhattan, NY
7/9/2011
If I could've just moved in here, I would've.
The bed was incredibly comfortable, we got an amazing view from a high floor, the complimentary breakfast was delicious, and the location is great!
The concierge was friendly and helpful and I don't have a single negative thing to say about it. -
Review from Allison P.
Fort Worth, TX
5/25/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Great customer service always wins my loyalty. I found my stay at the Ritz-Carlton (technically a Four Seasons hotel) consistent with other Four Seasons experiences. Mostly the Austin Four Seasons, since I haven't stayed at tons of these hotels. From now on, any time I can afford it, this hotel brand is my number one pick.
We were traveling to Chicago with a little one in tow, so a child friendly hotel was our number one priority. We arrived a few hours before it was time us to check-in, so the staff checked our bags for us, and we were able to go out to lunch and explore the city. Upon check-in, the reception gave our little nugget a stuffed dog to play with.
When we got into our room (the lake view is great!) our bags arrived minutes later, then they brought us a crib complete with a care package of diapers, wipes, baby wash, etc.
The location was perfect, and when the downpour hit on our first morning, we were able to relax with an amazing breakfast at Deca and make our way to the stores attached to the lobby for some shopping until the sun broke through the clouds. -
Review from Chontelle M.
Glenn Dale, MD
5/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
I walked in wearing my athletic gear and felt a little judged. Part of me wanted to smack the lady that was hesitant to tell me where the lobby was. Once she realized I was top flight (and checked out my name brand purse and jewelry) her whole attitude changed. Take that, you snooty-patooty!
This is one of the better Ritz-Carltons at which I have had the pleasure of resting my feet and relaxing! This Ritz is gorgeous - especially the lobby and the ballroom. The fountain is a great touch and it is a little bit of the outdoors indoor. The rooms are comfy and luxurious at the same time. The location is less than 20 steps away from the main street in Chicago (the name escapes me). I am also really happy that it is attached to the mall! How awesome... or sad... depending on where you are in your pay cycle. -
Review from Ayaka H.
12/20/2010
I LOVE THE RITZ CARLTON HOTEL.
I love it.
-The location is in the heart of downtown Chicago.
-GREAT CONCIERGE.
- The service here is EXCEPTIONAL. the bellman always comes very very quickly so don't forget to tip.
-Beautiful Christmas decorations!!!!!!!!
-Very spacious bathroom
-They are prompt with everything
-Modern feel
You won't regret staying here. Beautiful!
This is better than Four Seasons Hotel in Chicago. I highly highly recommend it. -
Review from Allison W.
Washington, DC
10/14/2011
Staff was awesome and the bed was extremely comfortable. I didn't want to leave the room for my meetings! And they had free basic wifi.
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Review from Kristin W.
Downers Grove, IL
3/1/2011
I was highly disappointed. The room itself and atmosphere was nice, but I had a terrible parking experience. Seems to be that b/c they're an expensive hotel they think they can absolutely gauge their guests on all fronts.
I paid for parking which I thought was $45 for 24 hours (still really high). Come to find out the hard way that it's 24 hours or up until 3 pm the next day, which comes first. In my case, I was parked for about 21 hours and paid $74!!!!!!!! Outrageous. I spoke to a couple different people and got no where. "it's the policy"
My policy - stay elsewhere. Nice hotels aren't hard to fine, go with one that has better service and concern for their guests. -
Review from Kate M.
12/2/2010
Since they renovated I think I can now give this Four Seasons 5 stars.
The rooms are beautiful. Their recent, much needed renovation level set the product with the service. The lobby is modern and elegant with a gorgeous greenhouse bar and the Deca restaurant. The rooms aren't all as spacious as you'd expect for the price, but they quality is there and the bathrooms are beautiful.
Service is always exceptional. I've been staying at this hotel since I was a kid (shopping trips with mom) and the standard of service has never fallen. There are still some waiters in the restaurant (now Deca, was the Cafe) that were there when I was a kid. They are very good at making people feel welcome and at home. Every whim is catered to. As long as its legal ;)
A great hotel with outstanding service and quality rooms. -
Review from Ryan J.
Columbus, OH
9/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
I spent my birthday weekend in Chicago and at a friends suggestion we staid at the Ritz. The location is amazing, right across the street from the water tower. The staff was perfectly helpful and the room was immaculate, perhaps the decore was a bit dated. Marie Antoinette would have felt right at home. I asked a friend who went along in what style the room was decorated and he jokingly said it was "Mormon temple" On a better note the Sunday brunch is not to be missed. A bit pricy, but with a breakfast cocktail included and everything from prime rib to an amazing raw seafood bar, to full service sushi it is perfect for a special occasion. Overall it was a great experience and I would definitely stay at the Ritz again.
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Review from Angela M.
10/27/2010
Our entire experience was perfect. The staff is very helpful and accommodating. The concierge was able to get us a dinner reservation at 7:00 that we would not otherwise got ourselves. The workout facility is very nice, and I especially liked the peppermint infused towels.
The room is very clean and spacious. The bed was very comfortable and had one of the best pillows I have ever slept on. Beautiful hotel and I would stay again the next time I am in Chicago. -
Review from Carolyn S.
Chicago, IL
8/27/2010
This hotel has the most beautiful lobby in all of Chicago. Guaranteed. I know because we visited every darn hotel in downtown Chicago looking for the best lobby to take wedding photos in. This idea was the perfect solution to a middle of July wedding where outside pictures would equal one sweaty bride, groom, and wedding party.
The lobby has a beautiful fountain with lots of open windows that lets in lots of natural sunlight. Past the fountain, there is a whole wing that leads to the ballroom areas and it is beautifully decorated with damask carpeting, beautiful chandeliers, and furniture that is equally modern and classic.
The moment we saw it, thoughts of the Drake and the Peninsula were out the window.
Of course, we didn't just sneak in with 15 people to take pictures in this beautiful space, we stayed here too! We had an amazing suite with breathtaking views of the city. It was probably the nicest hotel room I have ever seen, and was also the perfect space for the getting ready wedding photos.... And of course, the perfect space for our wedding night.
I also got to experience the spa and I had an awesome massage and a fabulously relaxing experience in the steam room. It was the perfect stress reliever the morning before the wedding!
If I was a total baller and could have a platinum wedding at any hotel in Chicago, this would absolutely be the one. We were lucky enough to be able to take advantage of this hotel's amazing space for photos and experience the luxury of this hotel for our wedding night. I am hoping we can make another visit on our anniversary.Listed in: No B.S. Bridal
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Review from Carolyn S.
Novi, MI
8/2/2011
Everything you expect from a high end hotel! The Ritz Carlton is set in a terrific location.
Pros:
-Awesome location.
-Beautiful large room with plenty of storage (coat size closet, dresser, two drawer night stands).
-Beautiful room with great views!
-The service was impeccable! My husband was even impressed they everyone pronounced his polish last name correctly!
-Room Service-prompt and served on a table/cart.
-Comfortable bed, great dark shades, and the halls were very quiet.
-The bar downstairs was reasonably priced for Chicago. The drinks downstairs with the views were worth it!
Cons:
My husband's only complaint was that you could not set the fan to continuously run as he prefers the white noise while sleeping. -
Review from Becca S.
Brooklyn, NY
10/29/2009
Most of the first afternoon of my neuroscience conference was spent running frantically through the convention center trying desperately to pick up a mobile signal (and cursing lack thereof) whilst checking out posters, bumping into friends, and juggling the week's worth of program books, so it's possible I looked slightly disheveled when I stepped into the elevator at the Ritz-Carlton.
Mind you, I wasn't staying at the Ritz-Carlton, but a non-neuro friend of mine happened to be there for a wedding, and I wanted to squeeze in a quick visit. I had her room number, so I was planning on just nonchalantly walking in and heading up like a normal person going to visit a friend in a hotel, but they have to make it so confusing for us plebians! The lobby is on the 12th floor. Who does that??
There was a fancy family in the first elevator with me, and it was clear that they were not pleased about having to share the same air with someone in a 2004 H&M coat carrying two bags, hair in a messy ponytail. Fancy dad said to fancy mom, "you know what I noticed, these are the same elevators as at the Ritz in New York!" and really, it was all I could do not to jump in with "OMG I KNOW, isn't that greeeeaat??? I can't tell you how pleased I am to see that the old R-C is consistent in their design." When we switched to the 2nd elevator, they rolled their eyes and fancy mom said to fancy dad, "you know, at the Ritz in New York, you can't get in the elevator unless you have a key."
It was then that I really wished I'd been dressed like a prostitute instead of a harried neuroscientist. Just for fun, you know. A little Pretty Woman quote fest, perhaps?
"Oh honey, I've got a runner in my pantyhose! I'm not wearing pantyhose!"
My friend's room was totally gorgeous, with a view of the lake and the ferris wheel. It was all done up in decadent periwinkle blue (just like at the NY R-C, I imagine) with a giant luxurious bed and a 2-sink bathroom that was bigger than some NYC apartments (or the Blue Banana, if you're still with me and my PW references).
One day when I'm rich I'm going to come back to the Chicago R-C and I'm going to get in that elevator like a pro and with that awful fancy family watching, I'm going to hit the f-ing PH button. -
Review from Julie F.
Chicago, IL
7/1/2010
This is not are review for hosting an event at the Ritz., or traveling on business at the Ritz. This is a "my husband and I decided to treat ourselves to a night downtown" type of review. As such, our stay was a little underwhelming. The location, staff, and room service were all at a five star level but, sadly other aspects of our stay made us feel like this hotel is just not worth the price tag.
Our room was a bit shabby, the mini bar looked to be on it's last leg and the carpet was coming up all along the edges of the room. While I was waiting for my husb to arrive, I tried to watch some TV. The cable service was terrible. Half the channels were out and it took about 3-5 seconds for the picture to appear when changing channels. There was also a slight error in our room service order (received decaf coffee instead of regular). We would have thought nothing of these small inconveniences had we been paying about $200 less for the room. Next time we stay downtown we'll be doing just that by booking a room somewhere else. -
Review from Caroline A.
Chicago, IL
2/4/2008
I haven't stayed at the hotel, but came by for drinks in the lobby recently. I have to say, it is breathtaking. I absolutely love hotel lobbies, and the Ritz Carlton may be my new favorite.
The area is grand, very large with a huge fountain right in the center of the room. Classic moldings, gorgeous floral arrangements (although I am pretty sure the orchids are fake), and picture perfect seating arrangements makes the lobby a great place for a drink, a date or afternoon tea with friends.
I had a dirty vodka martini and my friend had the toasted almond martini... both were delicious. Service was excellent, very attentive :) I like that.
What I love most about this place is that it's not a place to be seen. Just an elegant setting with great ambiance and service.
I'll update the review when I stay at the hotel. -
Review from Jennifer R.
Los Angeles, CA
8/21/2010
If a Ritz Carlton were to marry a Four Seasons (later in life) after they already established themselves (without children)... this is what you would get-- the Ritz Carlton - a Four Seasons Hotel. Of course the Ritz Carlton would be 20 years Four Seasons senior... however a happy marriage all the same.
We experienced the contemporary feel and service of the Four Seasons with the layout and history of the Ritz Carlton. Rooms were more outdated than previous Four Seasons that I have stayed in, however moderately updated with details sprinkled around every corner.
The indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center were standard for a Ritz Carlton, however the water aerobics class took up 3 of the 4 lanes in the morning. The ice service in the afternoon was thoughtfully timed, however the turn down service did not include chocolates waiting for us on our pillows... something I always look forward to.
The location was ideal for shopping and restaurants (steps from the Magnificent Mile). We were centrally located to everything we tentatively had planned for our stay, but due to the humidity in the middle of summer -- we found ourselves enjoying the comforts of our hotel rather than walking around.
When visiting Chicago in the future, I may stay here again... -
Review from Mollie R.
Chicago, IL
8/7/2010
The hotel staff are very hospitable, I love the fact that this hotel is pet friendly & the bar is lovely but every time I stay here I feel like something is missing. I cannot figure it out!
The people are fantastic, the workout room is spacious/nice & the spa is small but it works. -
Review from Annie W.
Chicago, IL
6/16/2011
One of my favorite Chicago hotels, with gorgeous rooms, food, and views...I'm always happy when I'm working on a project that gets set-up in their spacious conference rooms. Attentive and lovely staff. Can't wait to return!
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Review from suteishichic J.
Chicago, IL
9/17/2008
This review is for afternoon tea only.
My Mom and I love afternoon tea. We go whenever possible no matter what city we're in and usually the Ritz no matter the city is outstanding. It's usually a safe bet for excellent service and quality. Not so here.
Now, I'm familiar with the Chicago Ritz. I've dined here many times for dinner and the greenhouse room is a gorgeous place to stop by for a drink (pink champagne is a must). But the tea?
Expensive? Yes. Worth it? No way.
So disappointing!
Everything had been pre-done the night or days before and then must have sat in a refrigerator. It tasted like it too. It had that old food taste. And not just the soggy and stale sandwiches. Everything tasted old.
My Mom thinks now that her salmon turned. She later complained of a stomach ache from something but we're not too sure what got her ill there. I probably dodged that bullet because after my one bite of turkey that tasted day old or older I was done with the sandwich portion.
My poor Mom felt better the next day but had a bad night. So it was sort of like bad icing on a really nasty cake.
There was nothing fresh. Even the scones seemed nuked and were cold in places rather than being recently baked. The rolls seemed pre-done somewhere else. And who eats a cold roll with hot tea?
The tea was fair. I'm something of a tea snob and would guess they're buying in massive bulk at a cheap price. It's not Mariage Frères or anything high quality by any stretch of the imagination--but they'll charge you like it is.
They treat their teas badly too. They plunked the green and the black teas down on our table at the same high temperatures and then let the leaves sit the entire hour we were there meaning the last cup of tea had turned bitter by then. It's like they filled the pots from the red spigot by the industrial coffee maker. This is not how tea has ever been served to us at any other Ritzes before. Each tea has it's own temperature and time. Usually this is completely respected and every attention is paid to the finest of details.
Uh...not here.
Add to that not one of the three servers working the entire room could give us any help in tea selection. We each said what types of teas we enjoyed and asked them to recommend some things and the servers went and asked each other before deciding they couldn't "decide for us"
Huh? Hoookay......
I asked for milk for my tea (East coast girls don't do cream XD) and it took over twenty minutes for the milk to arrive. The ONE time tea was poured for us (the first), (and the pots were HEAVY--too heavy for my Mom so I had to pour for her the entire time) was when I was in the ladies room. I came out to find tepid tea waiting for me. I also couldn't find a server to help when my cup had a huge sharp chip on the rim.
After ten minutes of looking around, I gave up and drank from the other side. Ridiculous to have to do that at $30+!
One of our water glasses had someone else's old lipstick on the rim. Yuck. We kept asking each other is this the Ritz? Srsly? Ew.
Pretty room. Bad service. Bad quality. Horrible after experience with my Mom getting ill.
Next time I'll try somewhere else. This is not worth it at all. -
Review from Samuel C.
Chicago, IL
4/22/2011
Great Suites at this hotel, if you can afford it. Our whole family stayed together in a suite with 2 bedrooms and a dining room. Great service. The only weak point. Is valet parking tAkes a while.
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Review from Scott M.
Los Angeles, CA
4/27/2008
I see no reason to give this place any less that 5 stars. Excellent service, clean rooms and comfortable beds.
Big props to the concierge for the Il Mulino recommendation. WOW! -
Review from Eleni D.
6/2/2011
From the moment we arrived, the reception staff at the Ritz were eager to please (and it didn't seem to matter I scored a discount deal on the room through expedia!). We were upgraded to a deluxe room for free, and within minutes of checking in, we scored a reservation at RL thanks to the very welcoming staff at reception. The concierge enlightened us on Chicago's must-see attractions and nighttime hotspots; she made us a dinner reservation at Mercadito and even arranged for a complimentary appetizer for our party, which was a welcome surprise as we were seated at our table later that night. Our room was sparkling on arrival and the housekeeping staff made sure to keep it that way throughout our stay. Overall great experience.
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Review from Chuck S.
Phoenix, AZ
5/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
We went to the little bar upstairs here for a drink and the bartenders were very nice to us- coming over and giving us a ton of free nuts and olive appetizers to go down with our drinks. Sure the drinks are expensive, but for the Ritz they are actually pretty reasonable. I think a beer is like $6. The building is very cool, it's older but nice. We were able to sit on a cozy little couch and enjoy our drinks.
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Review from Nathan M.
3/19/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Very swift and easy check in with the warmth and respect that you expect from the four seasons and Ritz Carlton. The gym is great, plenty of equipment and peppermint infused towels to help you cool down after. The concierge is fantastic and was quick to find us a great dinner spot as well as a place to have a few drinks for a casual lunch. Great view of Navy Pier and the lake from the room. Comfortable sheets that feel great to snuggle up in.
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Review from Andrea D.
Chicago, IL
7/10/2010
Best friend got married, and her grandfather, very sweetly, booked a room for us to get ready in and for the couple to spend their first night together.
The room was BEAUTIFUL: clean, decorated in a modern style with classic touches, while still being able to keep the room feeling warm. GREAT big window with a view of the Lake. If you stay here, be sure you get a lake view. Truly spectacular, and it really highlights how beautiful our city is.
Here's the real reason for this review, though: to all those with **dietary restrictions**, you might want to keep the following in mind. We got hungry while primping and decided to order roomservice. The bride is a vegan. I called down to place an order, asked about the soup of the day and asked if it was vegan-friendly (while explaining what that meant). To their credit, the operator said she would check with the Chef, call us back and let us know (which she did). HOWEVER, when she called back, she informed us that they had NOTHING that was vegan-friendly on the menu.
Seriously? NOTHING? This is the Ritz and it's 2010. You'd think that they'd be used to somewhat ridiculous food requests, and it's not exactly like veganism is a completely fringe movement. I found that very odd. Maybe they're just used to rich people not eating?
That said, the view and our $21 order of shrimp cocktail (with 4 whole shrimp!) were fantastic. I'd love to come back for the view, service, and overall experience...as long as someone else is footing the bill. -
Review from Theresa U.
Northville, MI
1/28/2009 4 photos
My fiancé and I stayed 3 luxurious nights in the Anniversary Suite for New Years. We had arrived early so, we had the concierge hold our luggage until the room was ready. During our wait, we ate at the cafe for lunch. We waited 15-20 minutes for our meal. Since it was a minor inconvenience, the manager offered us 2 complimentary glasses of the Cabernet Sauvignon we were drinking. I thought that was pretty nice... I had the "Four Storey Hill Farm Young Chicken, Yukon Gold Potato Purée, Baby Turnips, Crimini Mushrooms, Roasted Garlic Jus". That was probably the most memorable restaurant chicken meal I've ever had. The meat was so tender and had excellent flavor. Not too overpowering... The vegetables were perfect.
As we got to our room, our luggage was already set up for us. I'm not going to blabber about the details in the room. The pictures speak for themselves...
That night, we attended a black tie event in the greenhouse area. There was a live band, our own private ice sculpture at our table! And a gourmet buffet adorned with fresh sushi, rack of lamb, caviar, French breads and cheeses, oysters, and so much more. It was a feast!
The last night we were there, I also had tried the "Butternut Squash Lasagna, Butternut Squash Purée, Ricotta Cheese, Walnuts, Spinach" -absolutely amazing...
If you don't mind spending some coin for a luxurious hotel stay, this is the place to go. Excellent service, convenient, great location, right at the center of the Magnificent Mile. And I almost forget to mention I'm one of those gals that like 'free' stuff. -ha... I collected about $200 worth of L'Occitane soaps and conditioners. Hey! It's good stuff can you blame me!?
We had a fabulous time here... -
Review from Robert B.
Chicago, IL
12/9/2008
My partner was offered a free night here, which we spent this weekend. Overall, our stay was fine. But nothing exceptional. Our room was oddly arranged, with the TV facing the desk and the chairs facing the bed and nothing facing the view. The chairs were highly uncomfortable, too. Also, $13 for a small pot of coffee in your room? LAME. I found the lobby rather ugly.
It was nice to stay here, but I won't recommend it. -
Review from Carson H.
Atherton, CA
4/29/2008
I had my engagement party here and the staff was nothing short of amazing. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommended if you are thinking about having an event.
The restaurant here is now closed and used as event space. It is SO grand. Wood paneling, chandeliers everywhere, and does not feel banquety at all. The food was incredible, everyone said it was the best they'd had at a party at a hotel.
They also gave us a really great rate for all of our out of town guests which is unusual for pretty much any hotel where you are just having an event and not using a huge block of rooms.
We hired the Bandoleros who are also great for parties, they sound a lot like the Gypsy Kings. All in all it was a spectacular event and wouldn't have been quite so fabulous without the help of the magical team of the RCH. -
Review from Joe S.
Chicago, IL
6/27/2007
Can you really go wrong with the Ritz? We stayed here for a little "getaway" one weekend. Everyone always knows your name, which I am still not sure how they pull that off. Service....impeccable, food the same, and drinks were great too. You really do get what you pay for. The room was a little "dated" in my opinion, but still had the comfy bed, fridge, and great bathroom.
I can't say enough about the gym, I wish my condo had a gym like that.
Headphones a plenty and great machines, and they actually had free weights over 25 pounds!
Oh, and I also saw Juwan Howard pull up in his blue Ferrari, he looked a little tight in there, but it was still a sweet ride -
Review from Natasha P.
Durham, NC
5/3/2010
I stayed at the Ritz on a business trip in Chicago. I must say that otherwise, this hotel is entirely out of my price range. The service was EXCELLENT and I loved my room... huge window... free wireless... comfy bed... large bathroom. It was all very elegant. My only complaint is that the general style of the hotel is a little too old school for my taste. Anyway, all in all, it was a lovely stay.
OH! AND the secret service was outside of my room all night the first night I was there protecting someone quite important... I never did find out who... -
Review from Jules D.
Chicago, IL
7/22/2009
Overnight (a Tuesday) in the city for the Billy Joel/Elton John show. All hotels, I mean all, were booked so we decided to splurge.
On the positive:
+ Friendly and prompt doorman, he greeted us by name hours later when we left for the evening.
+ I really appreciate genuine courtesy, with no pretense. We received that upon check-in.
+ The concierge knew we were in for the concert and had directions to Wrigley pre-printed upon our arrival.
+ Very clean, and well decorated room...spotless room/bathroom; drawer liners; white, I mean white, bedding.
+ Tasty and speedy room service - available at all hours (we ate at 1:00 am)
+ Lovely in-room breakfast...things that were supposed to be hot were hot and chilled things were chilled.
+ Early check-in request granted (11 am)
+ Late check-out request granted (Noon)
+ Great location
+ Beautiful lobby
+ Friendly and professional staff
+++++ A lake view without requesting it...this never happens to us without an upgrade request.
Stellar service example...
- Although laundered, one of our robes had a nasty stain on the butt- ewhhh...we called their attention to it and we were rushed a new robe and our room-service bill was comped without even requesting that. They just took care of it, and apologized three times for it.
Room for Improvement - Housekeeping seems to have the glitches
- stationary set had not been checked in a while...kinda ratty and marked up
- stained robe in the room previously mentioned
- morning paper/breakfast order had been placed via hang card, but did not get turned in - therefore our breakfast was not delivered at the requested time, and had to be reordered...when called to their attention they had it to us in record time with many apologies...the breakfast was part of our package so we were not charged for it.
We would/will return. Really appreciated being appreciated for staying. :)
