Hot List Hotels 2010
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11 E. Walton Street
Chicago,
Illinois
60611
United States
Tel: 800 500 8511 (toll-free)
Tel: 312 646 1300
Greek classicism meets French couture in the elegant 188-room Elysian. Befitting its location in the heart of the tony Gold Coast shopping district (Marc Jacobs occupies a corner retail space in the hotel), the perfectly proportioned new 60-story tower models tailored interiors beginning with the lobby's Christian Dior–inspired kick-pleated drapes and (an homage to Chanel designs) a crystal starburst chandelier, patterned mosaic floors, and curvy wall grillwork. Guest rooms are similarly composed, and both indulgent—high-thread-count Rivolta Carmignani sheets, TVs built into bathroom mirrors—and functional (including Carrara marble wet bars). The sexy second-floor bar, Bernard's, is suggestive of a 1920s salon, with low banquettes, dim lighting, and pre-Prohibition cocktails. Elysian's bright brasserie, Balsan, outshines expectations with foodie fare that underscores the relationship between legendary chef Alice Waters and hotel owner David Pisor, her nephew. A 14,000-square-foot spa and gym play it Greek with column-flanked hot tubs and Hellenic wall mosaics to mark the men's and women's locker rooms. With its no-tipping policy—a gratuity is included on food and beverage orders and at the spa but will be politely declined elsewhere—the Elysian maintains its poise where money matters are concerned, too. In a neighborhood crowded with luxury hotels, it emerges as a sophisticated pied-à-terre with the confidence of understatement.
Which room to book: Corner suites offer views to Lake Michigan.
Information may have changed since date of publication. Please confirm details with individual establishments before planning your trip.
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