The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection

The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection: A Michelin Key Selected Urban Oasis

The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection, a distinguished recipient of a Michelin Key, offers guests a "very special stay" in the heart of downtown Chicago. Opened in 2022, this upscale hotel, nestled within a historic neoclassical building, is praised for its blend of modern luxury with a tasteful retro Art Deco aesthetic.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for The LaSalle Chicago is overwhelmingly positive, with an average overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 across various platforms. Guests frequently describe their stays as "luxurious," "exceptional," and "suave." The hotel is often recommended for both couples and business travelers seeking an elegant and comfortable experience.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently highlight several standout features:

• Service: The service is frequently described as "top-notch," with staff being "friendly and helpful," often going out of their way to assist guests.
• Location: Its prime location in Chicago's Financial District, within the lively Loop, is a significant draw, offering easy access to major attractions.
• Design & Ambiance: The hotel's sophisticated Art Deco design, with clean-cut lines, midnight blue, dark grey, and white accents, along with marble-clad bathrooms, is highly appreciated. The hotel maintains an exclusive and intimate vibe despite its downtown setting.
• Amenities: Key amenities include a well-equipped 24/7 fitness center with Technogym equipment and Peloton bikes, in-room meditation sessions, and the option to use the spa and pool at the co-located JW Chicago. A complimentary chauffeur service within a two-mile radius on weekends is also a valued perk.

3. Room Quality

The 232 rooms and suites at The LaSalle Chicago are consistently lauded for their quality, comfort, and design. They are clean-cut, well-equipped, sleek, and spacious, featuring an Art Deco vibe.

• Comfort: Guests frequently praise the "super-soft, squidgy Egyptian rugs" and the "exceptional sleep" provided by the Simmons 'Beautyrest Black' beds and Italian Frette bedding. Proper curtains ensure minimal light intrusion.
• Design & Features: Rooms boast modern, glitzy light fixtures, Lavazza espresso machines, mini-fridges, minibars, TVs, and marble-top tables. Bathrooms are generously sized, marble-clad, and sparklingly clean, with powerful walk-in showers, backlit mirrors, and luxury beauty brand laGaia UNEDITED amenities. Even lead-in Superior King rooms are quite spacious at 31 sq m (333 sq ft). Suites offer separate living areas and often city views.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel's dining options receive positive feedback:

• Grill on 21: This steakhouse-style restaurant, located on the 21st floor, offers an elevated and modern take on the classic American grill concept, focusing on quality, seasonality, and responsible sourcing. The ambiance is described as dark and glossy, with velvet chairs and monochrome marble tables, complementing the Art Deco aesthetic.
• Breakfast: The restaurant serves a good breakfast menu with variations, including healthy options, fresh juices, and smoothies.
• Bar on 21: The bar offers an intimate ambiance for enjoying expertly crafted classic and contemporary cocktails, signature drinks, and live jazz on Friday and Saturday evenings, contributing to a lively vibe.

5. Service & Staff

Service and staff at The LaSalle Chicago are consistently highlighted as a strong point. Guests report being immediately greeted by friendly and helpful receptionists. The overall sentiment is that the staff is "top-notch," "accommodating," and provides an "excellent" customer experience. Special mentions include a complimentary chauffeur service within a two-mile radius on weekends and a concierge desk staffed by knowledgeable individuals offering helpful local tips.

6. Location & Accessibility

The LaSalle Chicago boasts an "excellent" and "phenomenal" location in Chicago's Financial District, commonly known as "The Loop."

• Neighborhood: It's situated in the beating heart of the city, surrounded by historical architecture, including the Rookery Building next door. The area is lively but also offers a calm atmosphere, especially on evenings and weekends, as it's primarily a business district.
• Attractions: Many key attractions are within walking distance, such as the Willis Tower (a five-minute walk), Skydeck Chicago, the Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Theatre District.
• Transport: The hotel is highly accessible via public transport, with the Quincy 'L' train stop just a two-minute walk away and Monroe station (Blue line) a little over five minutes away.

7. Value & Pricing

While considered an upscale property, The LaSalle Chicago is generally seen as offering "excellent value for a upscale property." Prices typically range from around $300-$500+ per night for Superior King rooms, depending on the time of year and day. Guests booking during the low season (February and November) or on Sundays and Wednesdays may find cheaper rates. Marriott Bonvoy members can also receive perks like room upgrades and late check-out.

8. Common Complaints

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few minor recurring issues have been noted:

• Housekeeping: Some guests reported inconsistencies with housekeeping, with one reviewer stating they only received one service per day despite two being advertised, and some staff not being particularly friendly or knowledgeable. Another mentioned difficulty getting housekeeping service.
• Room Maintenance: A few guests noted minor maintenance issues, such as broken drawers or beat-up toiletry boxes, suggesting a need for some "TLC" to uphold the luxurious feel.
• Noise: While generally quiet for a downtown hotel, some guests experienced noise, particularly if their rooms were very far from the elevators.
• Drainage: One specific complaint mentioned 2 inches of standing water in the shower after use.
• Dining on Weekends: Some guests found the location less ideal for weekend dining options directly surrounding the hotel.
• No Microwave: A guest noted the absence of a microwave on-site.

Sources

1. michelinmedia.com
2. timeout.com
3. michelin.com
4. marriott.com
5. booking.com
6. booking.com
7. kayak.com
8. weleavetoday.com
9. tablethotels.com
10. insideflyer.com
11. thelasallechicago.com
12. forbestravelguide.com