Loews Chicago Hotel

We had breakfast and dinner at the ETA restaurant, and both were better than we expected from a hotel restaurant. The shakshuka was delicious, and the ragu pasta was excellent. We stayed two nights for my birthday and Valentine's Day, and Enora at the front desk made the occasion feel special. She warmly welcomed us, patiently answered our questions, and arranged a birthday surprise with cake, champagne, and a handwritten card. It felt like real kindness, and we appreciated it. We'd definitely stay here again on our next Chicago trip.

We booked a weekend through Chase Edit and had prompt, professional service throughout. Mariana checked us in, explained our Chase benefits thoroughly, and gave us goodie bags, a lovely touch. We got a room upgrade. It didn't have a water view, but we still appreciated it. We had breakfast at ETA each morning, lattes from the on-site coffee shop, and drinks at the lobby bar, with great service everywhere. Valet was $85 a night, the most we've paid on our travels, but the convenience was worth it. We'd certainly stay again.

We got into town very late because of emergency, unexpected travel plans. I called to ask for a room for the night, but they wouldn't let me book since it was past midnight. I explained that my pregnant wife and I didn't want to sleep in our car and were willing to pay whatever it cost, but they still wouldn't help. I don't know whether this was an isolated incident, proper protocol, or just a lazy employee, but I'll never book with a Lowes Hotel again. I called on 2/5 at 2:30am.

The room service meal was the weak point for us. The burger seemed to have a frozen patty, and the Brussels sprouts came out soft and mushy. Breakfast was great, though, and we really liked the lounge pizza. My daughter was especially fond of the chocolate milk in the lobby. We'd come mainly for the pool, so finding it closed was a letdown after our daughter had been looking forward to it all month. I wish the hotel had told us those services would be unavailable during repairs. The staff made a big difference: Enora at the front desk was kind and understanding, which is why I still gave the stay four stars.