In all my years of travel, I have never stayed in an airport hotel that I was truly impressed by, until now.
The Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel is a few minutes drive from O’Hare airport, but it feels like a world apart. There is a shuttle that picks up every 20 minutes so it’s convenient and easy. Arrival at the fresh, clean, modern lobby is a delight. The staff are quick and friendly and the rooms are chic and modern.
On my stay I experienced the Presidential Suite which boasts an impressive square footage, sauna, 2 toilets, living room, bar, lounge and stunning bedroom. Views from the bedroom are of the runway; seeing 747’s roar into the sky is a plane watchers dream. Although I should also note that the suite is impressively quiet despite the proximity to the runway.
The other view from my suite was of the Fashion Outlets of Chicago mall which is just a 3 minute walk away. The mall features discounted designer names. You will find Prada, Gucci, Saks 5th Off, Bloomingdale’s, Armani and so many more, all without the department store prices. After shopping up a storm, hit the Viallagio Italian restaurant. They have locations from Park Ave NY to Bal Harbor Miami. Their Amalfi salad is the best seafood salad in the USA. They also have an ongoing lobster linguini special that’s great.
After shopping and eating I headed back to the Loews to unpack in space. Did I mention the Presidential Suite was 1,870 square feet? In the main lobby area there is a restaurant called Fresco. This serves drinks and dinner as well as breakfast and lunch. Breakfast is a great buffet and nothing is too much trouble for the staff. I have never stayed in an airport location with such friendliness and service. Adjacent to the hotel is McCormick & Schmicks and The Capital Grille. Both are very high end chains. The Capital Grille specializes in steak and has a wonderful steak tartar while McCormick’s skill is in seafood. The Capital Grille is pricey though.
The Airport is 5 minutes away. Chicago is notorious for delays, especially in the summer, due to storms. Actually it also is tough in winter due to storms. When O’Hare gets delays, it is a domino effect and it goes from bad to worse in minutes. I had a 55 minute Minneapolis flight that was delayed 7 hours. We were 2 minutes away from the crew losing their flying time and the Delta Sky Club was so packed they stopped people coming in. It was standing room only. With challenges like this it’s nice to know there’s a great hotel nearby.
Daniel Green, the Model Cook is a Celebrity Chef known for his healthy approach to food and living well. With TV, books, magazines and live appearances, Daniel spends his time helping fans to cook better, feel better and live better. He’s also an avid traveler and a self-confessed Foodie.
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