The Royal Sonesta Chicago River North

Our favourite hotel we’ve stayed at in Chicago. All the staff there are incredible. We were given a free room upgrade for our anniversary with complimentary wine and chocolates. The room was beautiful and room service came often. The amenities were quite good, the pool and terrace were our favourites. The best thing about this place was the staff who really made you feel at home- they didn’t feel too corporate, just genuinely kind. Edgar was amazing as our waiter each day at the restaurant and we shared great conversation with him, great guy. Nate at the bar was very friendly as well and made us exceptional unique cocktails like the Mai Tai which I highly recommend. Furthermore, they were quick to resolve a payment issue we had at the end of our stay. Amazing hotel, we’ll be back

Location was excellent, close to all major landmarks. Clean hotel, good restaurant and friendly staff. Room was spacious and one of the better room services. The pool and terrace were also good. Comfortable beds! Also very close the subway station and bus stops.

Antwonne and the front staff were absolutely amazing. Very friendly and Antwonne was always right there to greet us with that bright chicago smile. Overall great experience with everyone and thanks for the hospitality we will surely be back for another visit.

Edgar was an outstanding server—attentive, friendly, and professional. The restaurant itself was elegant and spotless, and every dish we tried was incredibly fresh, flavorful, and delicious!” The stay at the hotel is great with awesome views

Our stay has been mostly good; the front desk is polite, friendly and helpful. The valets add a security element, the beds are comfortable and the rooms are clean. The location is great, the area feels safe and is walking distance to many shops and eateries. The only downside of our experience was at the in-house bar and restaurant. I ordered a Macallan like I’ve done many times and when I asked for a second the bar tender confirmed that I was okay for $125 per pour…..I was stunned to hear that. Though I appreciate the confirmation before a second round, I would have preferred to know that price beforehand. I accept that I failed to ask the price and that’s my responsibility. When I checked the bar menu and saw nearly every pour between $20-$40 and no Macallan listed, I recognized that I was being taken advantage of. I accept that bartenders will do this and it’s not something that I’m experienced with so, it’s B.S. but, lesson learned. However, when I went to pay the bill the bartender also added a $27 group gratuity expense to my bill; this was a bridge too far. A few people that I knew had arrived independently over the hour that I was there and I talked with a few of them but we weren’t a party. We were people who recognized one another. It was disappointing to see this on top of the obscene charge for a single scotch. When I challenged this addition the bartender questioned me on whether I knew the other people in the bar…..he eventually removed the large group charge but I was still saddled with $150 charge for one scotch and one Guinness and that was after disputing the additional bogus charge. The bartenders final comment was, “this is downtown Chicago.” Be wary if you have a drink here, check the menu carefully and check your bill diligently. This single experience will diminish my otherwise positive stay at the hotel.