Did not want to leave
by TripAdvisor Member Zain214
I am currently undergoing withdrawal from the Peninsula. This hotel has been rated as number 1 in the United States on Conde Nast's Gold list and it lives up to its reputation. The executive suite we stayed in was simply stunning, as was the lobby. Great live jazz on Friday and Saturday nights in the lobby, impeccable service from front desk and concierge, fabulous bathrooms with a television above the bathtub are some of the many highlights. Although the hotel is a bit pricey, it really is worth splurging. We were able to get a discounted rate, complimentary breakfast, and a room upgrade to an executive suite by booking through a virtuso agent (central travel in Toledo Ohio). We will definitely be going back.
Plan an Experience...
by A TripAdvisor Member
Turn on the music, tap Privacy Please, set Mood Lighting, sip your wine, ...and plan an experience. And when Room Service asks if you would like your coffee cream warmed, just say yes. It will make their hearts happy.
Great room and service, but almost fainted at the brunch bill
by A TripAdvisor Member
Having stayed at the other five star hotels in Chicago, I was pleasantly surprised that this hotel surpassed the others. Rooms were wonderful and sumputous and the service was outstanding. I had requested early check in and was told they would try, but they could not garauntee it. A perfectly appropriate response. We arrived at 2:00 pm, with normal check in at 3:00 pm, and our room was not ready. They asked us to wait in the bar/lobby area and enjoy drinks on the house. They make a great $18 martini. We received a call on my cell phone and told that they had an upgraded suite available, if we would accept it. We had the Penn Kids package for our son, and he loved the goodie-filled backpack, as well as his own personal business cards. He also enjoyed the kid-friendly snacks delivered to the room (gummy worms, popcorn, milk and cookies). We loved the Sunday brunch, especially because they had a whole table of kid-friendly food for our picky eater. The only surprise came when we got the bill. For two adults and one child, our bill was $245. I admit that I had two glasses of champagne, but I thought it was included in the meal price. That alone raised the bill by $50. Not that we're piching pennies, but I do like to make informed choices. There is no menu, no pricing info available, and I didn't feel comfortable asking about the cost of the brunch. Everything else was top notch, we'll just go out for breakfast when we stay there again next week.
Completely perfect!
by A TripAdvisor Member
From the 2 level entrance - to the LARGE, gorgeous rooms...this was a perfect experience! The service was unreal, the rooms were fully equipped with every possible modern tv,stereo, lighting toy possible, and the view was to die for. I took better pictures of Chicago's skyline inside my hotel suite, than outside. After visiting the Park Hyatt (one block next door), there is NO comparision. The rooms at the Peninsula are top notch, yet still maintain a very comfortable feel. The price? Yes, a little high - but worth every penny for a very special stay.
Outstanding
by TripAdvisor Member legaljunkie
We had a wonderful experience. We frequent many 5 stars and would rank The Peninsula at the very top. We were there for 3 nights the last wk of May 2004.
We booked the mother's day brunch at the hotel and that was so tasty with a great variety.
We booked an executive suite. It was very nice with a well equipped bathroom. We had a TV at the tub and a separate shower stall. Most importantly, everything was very clean.
The location on Michigan Ave was terrific for shopping. Almost a little too good as I spent alot b/c everything was so close!!
We have stayed at well appointed hotels but what is critical to us is the level of service. It was outstanding here. A few mistakes were made but quickly corrected and a bottle of champagne sent up as a token of their apology.
We took our son and that was great. They had my son's diapers ready in our room and a very cute bath set for him as well.
My only disappointment was that I had just missed the cast of Oceans 12 staying there by a few days!
No discrimination at the THE LOBBY
by A TripAdvisor Member
I heartily disagree with the review from a disgruntled dining patron of THE LOBBY at the Hotel Peninsula dated July 19, 2004 advising those who are not W.A.S.P.s to avoid dining there! I have dined several times at THE LOBBY while visiting my daughter in Chicago and have always been more than pleased. As a Hispanic family we have found the Peninsula staff to be very professional yet open and friendly to all patrons. We have always had 5 STAR service from the entire wait staff in THE LOBBY. The food is always delicious and freshly prepared to perfection. I have witnessed people of every race and culture dining at THE LOBBY and observed all were treated most graciously. The staff is multilingual and ready to make everyone comfrotable in their dining experience! I plan to have Sunday tea or enjoy the Chocolate Night Buffet when I am back in Chicago this March!!