Perspective

In the words of Anton Ego from the movie Ratatouille, “…That’s it. I’d like some fresh, clear, well seasoned perspective. Can you suggest a good wine to go with that?”

Oddly enough, the position of a concierge is to do just that – and on occasion that also involves wine. I would like to cast some perspective on the most common questions I am asked.

Taxis – There are many cab companies operating in the downtown area. They are pretty much the same expect I have found that the purple ones have more leg room, which is important to taller people such as myself. Ninety Nine percent of them take credit cards; although cash is always nice…

Coffee – The closest Starbucks is on Walton and Rush, just two blocks away. After that they repeat every two blocks, and if you don’t believe me, I will place them all on a map. For a more local flare head to Sarah’s Pastries on Oak Street and get a cup of Intelligentsia coffee, a locally roasted coffee.

Food - We have plenty of it. This is where a lot of my perspective goes into play – whether it is a fun place, interesting cuisine, atmosphere, your favorite dish or drink. The Chicago Style deep dish pizza is an excellent choice. If you have leftovers, stick them in the refrigerator and have them for breakfast.

Music – Chicago has a diverse music scene. Close to the hotel you have places like jazz clubs such as Jilly’s, Backroom, and Andy’s, plus the Underground Wonder Bar which has a mix of rock/blues/jazz. Otherwise clubs in Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and the South Loop are just a short taxi ride away.

Popcorn – The famed Garrett’s Popcorn has relocated their Michigan Ave. store to Ontario Street next to the Coach store. It is worth the wait and try the warm caramel corn – good stuff.

Weather – It is always windy.

Hotel History – The hotel was originally built in 1927 as the Davis Hotel. There is a rich history behind the hotel, the meaning of “Knickerbocker”, the secret staircase, the Playboy years, and other intriguing aspects. Stop by the desk and I would be more than happy to take you around.

Area Maps – We have them available to the Concierge Desk. We have maps for shopping, eating, walking, jogging, transportation and every other thing that takes a map. You can also scroll down on our blog and view our Google map. It is loaded with restaurants, bars, nightlife, movie theatres, stage theatres, tours, links and more.

Hotel Features – The hotel has three different options for dining. Our main restaurant, NIX, is open from 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. for breakfast and 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. for lunch. After 2 p.m. our famed Martini Bar opens and offers a small menu of seasonal faire and over 50 different martinis. They also have live music Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Our room service department is open Sunday – Thursday from 6:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.; 5:30p.m. – 10:30 p.m.; and 10:45 p.m. to 5 a.m. On Friday’s and Saturdays it will be open 24 hours. Also, the hotel offers complimentary shoe shine, valet laundry service, and a fitness center with cardio equipment that is available 24 hrs. Unfortunately, our hotel does not have a pool/hot tub, but our concierge team can offer alternative choices – I have heard Lake Michigan is wonderful this time of year…

That covers the basics. As you might expect, I have a lot to say, so just ask. It will be well seasoned, and if you’re nice it might include a glass of wine.