The LondonHouse Chicago is a Hilton hotel centrally located along the river. Only steps away from the Chicago Riverwalk and DuSable Bridge, this hotel offers more than a standard stay. With premium rooms and an unbeatable 22nd floor rooftop bar, you are sure to remember your time in the Windy City.

All photos in this post are mine except otherwise indicated. This post was written based on my personal experience. I was not paid, reimbursed or otherwise solicited to write this post. Just a girl looking to share her favorite places. Cheers!

1. The Rooftop Bar

The rooftop bar has several names online:

1. LH Rooftop
2. LHon21
3. LHon22

Allow me to explain.

LHon21

Located on the 21st floor of the hotel, there is an indoor bar and restaurant. The interior has modern flair and can get very packed, very quickly. Though it seems like these are two different establishments, they are connected and you can bounce back and forth. From the 21st floor indoor bar you will walk up a flight of stairs. There, you will walk out onto the 22nd floor rooftop bar. When we went, we were able to take our drink back and forth. I am not sure if this is allowed or has since changed. We did enjoy being able to bounce back and forth to check out the views but stay warm inside.

LH Rooftop or LHon22

Once you reach the 22nd floor, you will see the outside terrace. You are greeted with one hundred and eighty degrees of views spanning the Chicago River and its architecture.

When you are drinking on a rooftop with breathtaking views, you have to pay a price. Your handcraft cocktails will range from $12 and higher. There are house wines available starting at $10 all the way up to $400 bottle service options.

Check out LH Rooftop on YELP!

One afternoon we stumbled onto the rooftop. We did not have any plans for the day and we going to grab a quick drink. We were surprised by all the people until we realized it was an event. It ended up being a Mount Gay launch party for their brand of rum. There were s’more stations, connect four, a photo booth, and these magical fur coats. The fur coats had their own security guards!

View LH Rooftop’s website HERE.

Overall, the LH Rooftop will be an incredible memory that sticks in my mind when thinking back on my Chicago trip. When I am having a tough day at work, I think back to drinking lemon drops while wearing a fur coat and overlooking the Chicago river, and I can count on a smile spreading across my face. 

Click here to make your reservation at LH Rooftop.

2. The Rooms

The rooms at the LondonHouse Chicago range from standard rooms to suites. Some selections include views of the river or the city.

3. The View

We had views of Marina City, which are two towers famous to the Chicago waterfront. The hotel also has views of the Wrigley Building, Tribune Building, Equitable Building, and NBC Building.

4. The Amenities

The hotel has special amenities including the fitness center and LH Spa. In addition to the rooftop bar and the lobby bar, there is also a restaurant to dine in.

Land and Lake Kitchen

In addition to the rooftop bar, the hotel boasts Land and Lake Kitchen, the downstairs restaurant. It is easy to pop in and out for a bite to eat. We ordered omelets before heading to the airport and were happy to be full for our travel day.

View their website for menus, hours of operations and more.

Looking for places to eat and drink? Check out these 9 amazing restaurants in Chicago you must try.

5. The Location

Nestled along the river, the LondonHouse Chicago sits across the Trump International Hotel. The hotel sits on the corner of Lower Wacker Drive and North Michigan avenue – two famous and popular streets in the city.

Book Your Trip Now

Did I mention LondonHouse Chicago is a Hilton hotel? If you are a loyal Hilton guest, then this spot is for you!

Click here to book your stay at LondonHouse Chicago.

I hope that each of you reading this will someday to get experience Chicago if you have not already done so. If you have stayed at the LondonHouse Chicago, please share your experience below!

The post 5 Reasons LondonHouse Chicago Is The Best appeared first on The Lemon Drop Chronicles.

Cindy’s is a culinary landmark of Chicago. Located in the Chicago Athletic Association Building, you may not be able to stumble in for breakfast unless you know exactly where you are going. You will take an elevator to the 12th floor where the staff greets you. As you will read in below, we got a sub-par seat facing a brick wall, but we did not let that take away from our experience (and neither should you!). The wait staff was amazing, we never had an empty glass of water and were impressed instantly. There are a dozen reasons you should stop by, but here is a list of the most important reasons to visit Cindy’s in Chicago.

Click here to see over 3,000 reviews of Cindy’s on YELP.

All photos in this post are mine except otherwise indicated. This post was written based on my personal experience. I was not paid, reimbursed or otherwise solicited to write this post. Just a girl looking to share her favorite places. Cheers!

1. The Food

We wanted to spend our calories on cocktails so we ordered a coffee cake instead of two individual plates. It was incredible; you could taste the freshness and the portion size was impressive and extremely filling for two people. I look forward to returning so that I can try more items on the menu. You have choices on the brunch menu ranging from salads to boards.

Visit Cindy’s website for a complete list of menus.

2. The Drinks

I initially ordered a mimosa which was sized and priced just as any other mimosa you would expect. It kickstarted my day. After that, I ordered glasses of the C’Est L’Avit. Do not let the name scare you. It is just a Bloody Mary with fancy foreign ingredients. It was spicy and very filling. For $16, it was served in a moderate sized glass but we felt as though it was worth the price. Some other offerings included glasses of wine that ranged from $10 a glass to upwards of $60 a glass.

I highly recommend going to Cindy’s with your group of friends or significant other and having a mid-morning cocktail. The food and drinks were impressive, and reasonably priced for a restaurant that has a breathtaking view of the city.

3. The Ambience

We visited the restaurant as they first opened for the day. It was a relaxing, calm atmosphere inside. You could hear the people you are with and have a conversation looking out over the city.

4. The View

Even if you do not get seated on the rooftop outside, you should step out to take photos. The rooftop restaurant looks over Millennium Park, the Monroe harbor, and Grant Park.

Take a picture on the patio! My mom loved the picture of me overlooking Millennium Park, and yours will too! Don’t leave without taking in the view and snapping a few photos with your companions.

5. The Location

Located on the 12th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association Building, Cindy’s is centrally located with plenty to do and see after Brunch. In addition to Millennium Park, the restaurant is within walking distance to the Art Institute of Chicago, Grant Park, and the Lakefront Trail.

Make A Reservation Now

I highly recommend making a reservation. We arrived two minutes after they opened on a cold Saturday morning. We were very lucky and were seated immediately. Though we did not have an ideal seating arrangement against a brick wall, I was so thankful we were able to get a table. All of the surrounding tables that were prime seating were saved for those with reservations. 

Click here to book your reservation now!

Whether you are planning a trip to Chicago or are just looking for inspiration for your next vacation, I hope you enjoyed reading about Cindy’s. The only thing better than visiting these spots and enjoying them is getting to share them with friends and family.

Looking for more spots? Check out 9 amazing restaurants in Chicago you must try.

Please comment if you have tried Cindy’s and tell me how you liked it. Also, I am always looking for recommendations. If you have any favorite spots in Chicago please share them below!

Cheers!

The post 5 Reasons Cindy’s In Chicago Is The Best appeared first on The Lemon Drop Chronicles.

I am sitting at O’Hare Airport reflecting on an amazing weekend in Chicago. Before I left, my boyfriend asked me what my favorite part of the weekend was. All of my favorite moments involved testing out a famous eatery or enjoying a happy hour. If you have an upcoming trip or have been thinking of visiting the windy city, these are nine amazing restaurants in Chicago you must try. 

Coffee: 

1. Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea

This coffee company has multiple locations in Chicago. Though I had never heard of it before, it looked aesthetically appealing from outside, so we wandered in. According to their website, Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea has five locations in Chicago. The location we visited was in the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, the same building as Cindy’s Rooftop.

Click here to view all of the Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea locations.

Located just steps from Millennium Park and the famous bean, you can easily stop in after a day of looking at sights.

With it being the beginning of March and on the verge of snowing, a warm drink was a must. The hot mocha was delicious, an even had a design just for me! They have a robust menu with offerings ranging from specialty coffee drinks to matcha teas. Though we did not order any food, there are food opens available for purchase. Fairground Coffee and Tea can be your one-stop-shop before visiting the bean and touring other sights.

Shop This Look

When visiting Chicago, it is important you dress warm. Assuming you are not visiting in the summertime when the sun is shining down on the Windy City, it may get a little cold. We visited in March and it began snowing. Thankfully, I stocked up on a coat before traveling.

This jacket kept me warm while sitting on rooftop bars and walking along the Chicago River. The fur lined hood is perfect to make a statement but is by no means obnoxious.

Buy Your Jacket Now:

CLICK HERE: iLoveSIA Women’s Hooded Warm Coats Parkas with Faux Fur Jackets

Breakfast:

2. Cindy’s Rooftop

Cindy’s Rooftop is a culinary landmark of Chicago. The patio looks over Millennium Park, the harbor, and Grant Park. Located in the Chicago Athletic Building, you may not be able to just stumble in for breakfast. You will take an elevator to the 12th floor where the staff will greet you.

Make sure you schedule a reservation in advance. Book your reservation on RESY.

The wait staff was amazing, we never had an empty glass of water and were impressed instantly. We opted to order a coffee cake instead of two individual plates. It was incredible; you could taste the freshness and the portion size was filling for two people. 

I highly recommend going to Cindy’s with your group of friends or significant other and having a mid-morning cocktail. The food and drinks were impressive, and reasonably priced for one of the best restaurants in Chicago with a breathtaking view of the city. 

Check out Cindy’s Rooftop on YELP or view their website HERE.

Want more of this incredible view? Check out 5 reasons Cindy’s in Chicago is the best.

3. Wildberry

This establishment is the highest rated breakfast restaurant on Yelp in the Millennium Park area. Now, I see why. There are a variety of options on the menu, everything from traditional breakfast offerings to specialty pancakes which include Oreo Pancakes. Check them out below!

Wildberry is perfect if you are needing a quick bite to start your day.  There may be a little bit of a wait. Don’t let this detour you. We were told there would be a 15-minute wait but were seated within 3 minutes of walking in. Also, service is very fast and hospital. 

Check out Wildberry on YELP!

A restaurant isn’t the top recommended breakfast spot on Yelp for no reason. Great location, great service, and food that will keep you full through whatever touristy plans you may have for the day. 

View Wildberry’s website HERE.

4. Land and Lake Kitchen

We stopped into Land and Lake Kitchen before taking off to the airport. Located in the LondonHouse Chicago, this restaurant has a wide range of breakfast options to choose from. The first thing that caught my eye is the Mimosa Brunch. Offered on Saturday and Sunday, for $30 you get bottomless mimosas and an entrée. It was too bad I was in a rush for the airport and did not have a chance to enjoy this offer.

I ordered the Ham and Swiss Omelet served with breakfast potatoes. Even though we stopped in for breakfast, the restaurant also serves lunch and dinner. They have happy hour specials from Monday through Friday.

Check out Land and Lake Kitchen on YELP or visit their website.

Lunch:

5. The Purple Pig

The Purple Pig is a higher end lunch and dinner spot located around the corner from the Tribune Tower. A fairly small spot with a restaurant, bar, and outdoor patio, The Purple Pig offers many options for whatever you may be craving. We went in knowing that we wanted to splurge on a cheese platter paired with wine.

Check out The Purple Pig on YELP!

The cheese platter did not disappoint. For the two of us, we chose three cheeses, three spreads, and two meats. The selections were delicious and paired well with not only the other items on our board, but also the wines we had chosen. The meat and cheese boards average $30, and can be customized and shared. 

If you are looking to have a few drinks and a light lunch, this is a great spot to “Cheese, Swine, and Wine”. Yes, that’s their slogan. Due to their cheese and wine, The Purple Pig became one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago.

View The Purple Pig’s website HERE.

Dinner:

6. Shaw’s Crab House

We went to Shaw’s Crab House at 7:30pm on a Saturday night. We called as we were walking on our way there and were told we could not be seated until 9pm. To our surprise, we were seated at a booth in the bar area as soon as we walked in. We did not order any cocktails at Shaw’s Crab House (thanks to every other place on this list, we were exhausted!). We did, however, have three different courses of food.

See over 2,4000 reviews of Shaw’s Crab House on YELP!

For appetizer, we had lobster tacos. My expectations were along the lines of deep fried lobster meat in a taco shell, and the dish came out as cold lobster. Don’t get me wrong, the dish was still incredible, just not what I expected.

My main dish was lobster fettuccine, and this dish was exactly what I was craving; buttery noodles, cooked spinach, roasted tomatoes, and yes, lobster. It was a cheat meal, and a mighty fine one at that. 

View Shaw Crab’s House’s website HERE.

Sit in the bar area, if you can. The bar area was less crowded than the restaurant appeared to be and we got seated right away. Other alternatives – look ahead to making reservations or go before or after the dinner rush. 

If you want to visit one of the best restaurants in Chicago, you need to plan ahead. Book your reservation now through Open Table.

7. Giordano’s

I am not the first person to write about Giordano’s and I certainly won’t be the last. This was my first Chicago deep dish pizza experience, and although I am a thin crust enthusiast, I highly recommend it. There are currently three restaurants in Chicago’s downtown area, and there may be even more that I do not know about. If you are downtown wandering near the river, there is a good chance you could pull up your maps and find a location within a mile of you. 

View Giordano’s website HERE.

First, let’s talk about your options. Yes, you can order any ordinary pizza, or you can get the Chicago style deep dish with any of the toppings or ingredients that fit your cravings. When you order, you will be told the famous line: “It may take 45 minutes to an hour for your pizza to be ready”. Oh yes, as an impatient millennial, this was worth the wait. The pizza comes out scorching hot and it is ever so satisfying grabbing your first slice and seeing that long cheese trail left behind. 

I am not going to beat around the bush. You are in Chicago, order the deep-dish style pizza that this city made famous. The pizza selections range from $20-$35 and can be shared by as many or as few people as you want. 

Check out Giordano’s on YELP!

Happy Hour:

8. The Signature Lounge at 96th

As my boyfriend and I were recapping our Chicago trip, I was so surprised when he said his favorite part was having a drink at The Signature Lounge. Housed on the 96th floor of the John Hancock Building, The Signature Lounge has 360 degrees of breathtaking views and lush seating. We sat overlooking the western part of the city as it was nearing sunset. I had the privilege of sipping my cocktail and watching the sky get painted orange. 

The John Hancock Building is the fifth tallest building in Chicago. Conveniently located just off the Magnificent Mile, The Signature Lounge allows tourists to sip on a glass of wine while overlooking beautiful scenery, without completely breaking the bank. Though the cocktails average around $17 a glass, this is the only cost for your trip 96 floors high.

Check out The Signature Lounge at 96th on YELP!

If you were instead to go to the Sky Deck located on the 103rd of the Willis Tower, you would pay $25 simply for entry. You would look around for a bit, take some photos, and leave. Instead, with your patronage at The Signature Lounge, you will have the ability to relax.

Here, you can enjoy the company of others while overlooking the city, sipping your favorite spirit, taking incredible pictures of the windy city. The views are what make The Signature Lounge one of the best restaurants in Chicago.

View The Signature Lounge at 96th’s website HERE.

9. LH Rooftop

I certainly saved my favorite for last. We stayed at the LondonHouse, so stumbling upon this rooftop was not a coincidence. Located on the river across from the Wrigley Building and Trump Tower, you know I am about to tell you the incredible views this rooftop boasts. 

Check out LH Rooftop on YELP!

Located on the 21st floor of the hotel, there is an indoor bar and restaurant. You can easily bounce around from the indoor dining area to the 22nd floor housing the outdoor terrace. 

You cannot miss out on this spot. The views are incredible. You will cherish the view and photos taken at LH Rooftop. It is easily one of the restaurants in Chicago where I spent most of my time and money.

View LH Rooftop’s website HERE.

Want to stay at the LH Rooftop? Check out 5 reasons LondonHouse Chicago is the best.

I hope that each of you reading this will someday to get experience these restaurants in Chicago if you have not already done so. These seven spots were my favorite in the city and I loved sharing them with you. 

I am always open to recommendations. If you have any favorite restaurants in Chicago, please share them below!

Cheers!

The post 9 Amazing Restaurants In Chicago You Must Try appeared first on The Lemon Drop Chronicles.