Best Hotel Bars In Chicago
Whether you're visiting Chicago on business, taking in the sights downtown or just looking for a new hotspot to have some drinks, it can be a great idea to look beyond the regular bar scene. While up-and-coming bars seem to come and go in the city, there are some bars that continue to improve in quality and service. Hotel bars in Chicago offer more of a grown-up sophistication, rather than the ever-fleeting clubs that are usually filled with the newly turned 21-year-olds. Check out some of these hotel bars in Chicago and scream sophistication and impress patrons time and time again. For a few other good options, refer to one of CBS Local's previous lists. One even makes both lists, a sign of just how great it is.
Angels & Kings
Hard Rock Hotel Chicago
230 N. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 334-6722
www.angelsandkings.com
Inside the downtown Chicago location of the Hard Rock Hotel, Angels & Kings is a restaurant/bar inspired by a rock and roll theme. The music goes with the rock and roll theme and there is even a small stage that allows visitors to feel like they have VIP status regardless of where they are sitting. Different bands, artists and DJs frequent Angels & Kings, so you can check out the events calendar to coordinate your visit with what you're looking to listen to. The food menu offers up typical bar food but with a sophisticated twist.
The Bar
The Peninsula Chicago
108 E. Superior St.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-2888
www.peninsula.com
The Peninsula Chicago is known for its ambience through an East-meets-West type of décor. The Bar at The Peninsula is more than just an open space that happens to sell drinks. The rich textures of upholstery, leather and metallic give the space depth that is both comfortable and sophisticated. It features an Art Nouveau-inspired décor, open fireplace and a huge selection of different cocktails and cognacs.
Rebar
Trump Hotel Chicago
401 N. Wabash Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 588-8000
www.trumphotelcollection.com
Located on the mezzanine level of the Trump Hotel Chicago, the main attraction to the Rebar is its floor-to-ceiling windows. The view highlights the Chicago River and the Michigan Avenue Bridge with the lights of the city adding the perfect touch. All of the seating has a comfortable lounge feel and the signature cocktails keep guests coming back. Unlike other bars that feature typical bar food, the menu at the Rebar feature neo-Japanese cuisine.
BIG Bar
Hyatt Regency Chicago
151 E. Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 565-1234
www.chicagoregency.hyatt.com
The Hyatt Regency Chicago recently debuted a $168 million renovation which transformed everything from its rooms to its amenities. While its BIG Bar was great before, it is even better with the new renovations. The menu lives up to its name due to the extra BIG portions and the signature cocktails pack a BIG punch in flavor and quality. There are 24 flat-screen televisions throughout the space and two 90-inch plasma screens at the bar area. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or just looking for a not so stuffy bar in the downtown area, this one will definitely meet your expectations.
Vertigo Sky Lounge
Dana Hotel and Spa
660 N. State St.
Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 202-6000
www.vertigoskylounge.com
Vertigo Sky Lounge offers a unique take on the typical downtown Chicago hotel bar. Instead of keeping guests confined behind windows, Vertigo Sky Lounge as a year-round indoor/outdoor lounge to let guests really take in the Chicago sights. While you might wonder why you'd want to tread outdoors during a Chicago winter, you definitely will understand the logic once you experience the outdoor ice bar. Relax by the fire pits while surrounded by snow and take in the live DJs that perform nightly.
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Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a Bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her Master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
