The Windy City is undoubtedly well acquainted with luxury hospitality. Its rich tapestry of historic properties lining the Chicago River—and its frequented Riverwalk—serves as a testament to its architectural prowess. From the iconic Wrigley Building to the profound Tribune Tower, there’s ample opportunity for hotels, designer shops, and high-end restaurants alike to seize this area of Chi-Town’s metropolitan grandeur as their skyline backdrop.
However, only one stay in Chicago’s Loop neighborhood combines this rich history with unparalleled opulence. Nestled within the iconic Art Deco Carbide & Carbon building, a 37-story marvel gracing Chicago’s renowned Michigan Avenue, the Pendry Chicago stands as a beacon of modern luxury. Initially designed in 1929, the structure’s revered champagne bottle shape, bedecked in dark green and gold embellishments on its edifice, stands as a monument to the Prohibition Era.
Upon entering, guests will notice the landmark’s significance resonating throughout the refurbished accommodations. The grand foyer is swathed in untouched accents: a smattering of rare Belgian marble, polished black granite, and elegant bronze trim, plus soaring ceilings clad in traditional Art Deco geometric detailing, spawn a gilded atmosphere.
Sleekly tucked off the corner of the lobby sits Bar Pendry, its lavishness exuding a swarthy-toned classic Chicago hotel bar turned anew. Decorated with a curated art collection typical of the design-savvy Pendry brand and highlighting an expansive double-sided fireplace, the bar effortlessly crafts a moody nightcap ambiance.
Continuing past the elevated billiards room, one encounters the signature French-inspired brasserie, café, and raw bar, Venteux (French for “windy,” paying homage to its “Windy City” locale). Glassed in behind 40-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, the fashionable café unveils a delightful green and nature-themed decor—perfect for leisurely brunches or grabbing a morning latte along with one of their freshly made pastries (try the Palermo dacquoise filled with pistachio mousse, topped with vanilla mousse).
Oh, and there’s one more gastronomy experience to note. Riding up one of the antique gold-lacquered elevators, guests will encounter even more breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline from Château Carbide. An ideal summertime rooftop to imbibe in absinthe-inspired cocktails and seasonal light bites, visitors can usher in the city’s prime from this sun-drenched garden terrace.
The interiors of the guestrooms and suites showcase a sleek monochrome palette combined with authentic Art Deco motifs. These posh and spacious chambers are naturally lit by sweeping scenes of the Chicago River and Michigan Avenue peeking through bay windows. Perched on the 35th floor, the crème de la crème Pendry Suite, starting at $1200 per night, is the pinnacle of ornate living.
The Pendry Chicago surpasses expectations in deluxe hospitality, effortlessly blending historical charm with contemporary sophistication in its enriched blueprint and overarching modern aura.
Top Takeaways
Location: The Loop, Downtown Chicago
Address: 230 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60601
Rating: Four-Star
The vibe: Past meets present at this modern luxury hotel set within a historic Prohibition-era building in the heart of Downtown Chicago.
Food + Drink: Start your day with coffee and pastries from Venteux, followed by French classics—such as escargots and steak frites—along with raw bar delights (think: oysters by the dozen and caviar) for lunch or dinner. Aperitivos and appetizers at the rooftop bar, Châteaux Carbide, can prelude dinnertime activities. By night, slip over to Bar Pendry’s moody ambiance for a nightcap (or two).
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: The views from our Corner King room were unmatched, especially during the famed St. Patrick’s Day Chicago River dyeing ceremony—where the water is dyed to a vibrant green hue to commemorate the holiday.
Amenities: Fitness center; Restaurant & Café; Rooftop bar; 24-hour front desk; Room service; Free WiFi; Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
What’s nearby? Art Institute of Chicago; Water Tower Chicago; Millennium Park; Cloud Gate – The Bean; Chicago Tribune Tower; Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art
Any personal neighborhood recs? If you have yet to experience Garrett Popcorn Shops, you’ve been depriving yourself of the delightful flavor fusion of their renowned Chicago-style, warm cheddar cheese and caramel kernels. Fortunately, there’s a storefront conveniently located across the street from the Pendry, where you can treat your taste buds to this sensation.
Rooms: 364
Pricing: Rates start at $629 per night.
Closest Airport: Midway International Airport (Chicago O’Hare International Airport is just a hop, skip, and jump, too.)
