Rating - 9.994
Arrived early (around 2 pm) and was helped by Jade at the front desk, she was brilliant as it was busy and the phones were ringing off the hook, but she took time to ensure I was satisfied and fixed my reservation (I had pre-paid for one night, and used points for the second). She also got me a room early.
In room 427 which is a VERY NICE suite and located in one of the corners - so it is VERY quiet. Nice size room when you walk in with a hide-a-bed, old style tv, table with 2 chairs, and a sink (or "wet bar"). Spacious bathroom located through a door that can be closed and then the master bed room. This is a great room, flat screen tv, quiet and dark in the morning.
We had several adults and kids in the room for New Years eve, and we could not hear the room next to us, or anywhere else in the hotel.
Only minor beef was the lobby bar's drinks seemed to be noticeably higher, and I got whacked $30 for a roll away (and it was small and on its last legs).
We always love having breakfast in the lobby restaurant, but I will write a separate review on that.
They were GREAT in allowing us to have a 2:30 pm check out for our 4 pm flight.
BEST thing about this property is the PEOPLE....everyone is helpful and goes out of their way to make sure you are happy...everyone from the maids, to front desk, and especially the guys who work the door.
Can't ever beat the location and the service is first rate!!
Dec 30, 2009
Dec 29, 2009
Tilted Kilt, Chicago IL - December 29
Rating - 7.3
Headed over at 1 pm for a late lunch, great crowd in the place...and I was quite surprised at the number of women eating lunch here by themselves (usually only there as part of a mixed group).
Great service from Katy, always quick with a drink refill, and decent food. Took longer than I am used to, and it was not quite as good, or as warm. Actually a bit disappointed with the quality of the food......
Arnold Palmer 2.50
Ice Tea 2.50
Coke 2.50
Irish Dip 8.99
Grilled Chicken club w/side caesar 10.98
Grilled Chicken club 8.99
Total - $40.56
Headed over at 1 pm for a late lunch, great crowd in the place...and I was quite surprised at the number of women eating lunch here by themselves (usually only there as part of a mixed group).
Great service from Katy, always quick with a drink refill, and decent food. Took longer than I am used to, and it was not quite as good, or as warm. Actually a bit disappointed with the quality of the food......
Arnold Palmer 2.50
Ice Tea 2.50
Coke 2.50
Irish Dip 8.99
Grilled Chicken club w/side caesar 10.98
Grilled Chicken club 8.99
Total - $40.56
Boston Blackie's Riverside, Chicago IL - December 28
Rating - 9.89
Stopped in at 4:30 to grab a bite to eat and a few beers with my parents and sister....Scott and Allison ended up joining us at a decent round table. They had a pretty good crowd for a holiday Monday evening, and as time went on lots of Bear fans (they beat the Vikings on Monday night) stopped in for food and beers.
Our waitress was Faviola and she was GREAT. Friendly, fast and efficient. The atmosphere in the place is always fun and relaxed, and it is a little bit better in the summer when you can sit outside on the patio.
We had great apps, and excellent entrees. Skins were a bit marginal (greasy and small) but the wings smelled GREAT. Beers were cold and always refreshed, and I had an AWESOME burger for dinner. My mom had the fish and chips and I didn't think it was that good, but my dad enjoyed the hot dog. Fries were great. Scott headed up to the complimentary beef/pork table (just tip the carver) at the front of the place and really liked the mini sandwiches.
Fun spot to grab a bite and catch the train home! Strangest bill I have ever seen with the odd food pricing....
Bass pint (2 @ 6.45) 13.00
Miller Lite (3 @ 3.75) 15.00
312 Pint (2 @ 6.00) 12.00
Spuds 5.99
Onion Rings 4.99
Coors Light (6 @ 3.75) 22.50
Jumbo Hot Dog 8.48
Cheddar Burger (2 @ 7.49) 14.98
Homestyle Fries (2 @ 2.39) 4.78
Fish-N-Chips 9.99
Buffallo Wings 6.99
Large Dressing .99
Large Dressing .99
Total - $138.90 + 22.42 (18% mandatory gratuity) = $161.32
Stopped in at 4:30 to grab a bite to eat and a few beers with my parents and sister....Scott and Allison ended up joining us at a decent round table. They had a pretty good crowd for a holiday Monday evening, and as time went on lots of Bear fans (they beat the Vikings on Monday night) stopped in for food and beers.
Our waitress was Faviola and she was GREAT. Friendly, fast and efficient. The atmosphere in the place is always fun and relaxed, and it is a little bit better in the summer when you can sit outside on the patio.
We had great apps, and excellent entrees. Skins were a bit marginal (greasy and small) but the wings smelled GREAT. Beers were cold and always refreshed, and I had an AWESOME burger for dinner. My mom had the fish and chips and I didn't think it was that good, but my dad enjoyed the hot dog. Fries were great. Scott headed up to the complimentary beef/pork table (just tip the carver) at the front of the place and really liked the mini sandwiches.
Fun spot to grab a bite and catch the train home! Strangest bill I have ever seen with the odd food pricing....
Bass pint (2 @ 6.45) 13.00
Miller Lite (3 @ 3.75) 15.00
312 Pint (2 @ 6.00) 12.00
Spuds 5.99
Onion Rings 4.99
Coors Light (6 @ 3.75) 22.50
Jumbo Hot Dog 8.48
Cheddar Burger (2 @ 7.49) 14.98
Homestyle Fries (2 @ 2.39) 4.78
Fish-N-Chips 9.99
Buffallo Wings 6.99
Large Dressing .99
Large Dressing .99
Total - $138.90 + 22.42 (18% mandatory gratuity) = $161.32
Kelsey Road House, Lake Barrington IL - December 23
Rating 8.76
Awesome spot to have dinner at Christmas - the decorations are "best in Chicago" quality, and the place is very festive! I love the sharp cheddar cheese spread (and crackers) that is on the bar as you usually spend plenty of time waiting for a table (at least in the "old" days).
We arrived at 6 pm on a rainy/snowy night. I was really surprised to walk in and be seat right away, and that there open tables. I remember always waiting to eat here, but they also said they were closing at 8 pm that night.
John O was our waiter and he was very friendly and good. The only thing I did not like was they told us we could only order pizzas and 1 entree due to the size of our party - 8 adults and 3 kids. I have NEVER heard of a rule like that, and even if they had one, it didn't make sense for a night when there were only a few tables.
I didn't care in the least because I love the pizza, although I remember the ribs being excellent too (but I was not allowed to order them). So we had some excellent apps first - chicken fingers were excellent, skins too greasy, bratwurst soup awful. Also some cold beers and about a 30 minute wait for our deep dish pie.
Pizza was awesome, and there is so much that we had plenty to bring home. Also a great value for all we had.
This place is all about a great atmosphere, a few drinks, and solid food. They added a bar upstairs with games since I was last in the place. It is a classic, and I look forward to returning!
1 chicken fingers 8.95
fries 1.00
2 mozzarella stix 13.90
1 potato skins 8.95
2 soup cup 4.00
1 bkd onion 4.50
1 dinner salad small 3.95
1 BBQ pork sand 8.95
1 chicken finger (kid) 7.95
1 spaghetti pasta (kid) 7.95
14 Lite beers 42.00
1 312 beer 4.25
2 by the glass Tudernum Cab reserve 20.00
1 white Albano sav blanc glass 7.00
3 white mezzacorona pinot glass 18.00
1 lg deep dish pizza 22.95
Total - 209.55 + 41.91 (20% tip) automatically added = $266.13
Awesome spot to have dinner at Christmas - the decorations are "best in Chicago" quality, and the place is very festive! I love the sharp cheddar cheese spread (and crackers) that is on the bar as you usually spend plenty of time waiting for a table (at least in the "old" days).
We arrived at 6 pm on a rainy/snowy night. I was really surprised to walk in and be seat right away, and that there open tables. I remember always waiting to eat here, but they also said they were closing at 8 pm that night.
John O was our waiter and he was very friendly and good. The only thing I did not like was they told us we could only order pizzas and 1 entree due to the size of our party - 8 adults and 3 kids. I have NEVER heard of a rule like that, and even if they had one, it didn't make sense for a night when there were only a few tables.
I didn't care in the least because I love the pizza, although I remember the ribs being excellent too (but I was not allowed to order them). So we had some excellent apps first - chicken fingers were excellent, skins too greasy, bratwurst soup awful. Also some cold beers and about a 30 minute wait for our deep dish pie.
Pizza was awesome, and there is so much that we had plenty to bring home. Also a great value for all we had.
This place is all about a great atmosphere, a few drinks, and solid food. They added a bar upstairs with games since I was last in the place. It is a classic, and I look forward to returning!
1 chicken fingers 8.95
fries 1.00
2 mozzarella stix 13.90
1 potato skins 8.95
2 soup cup 4.00
1 bkd onion 4.50
1 dinner salad small 3.95
1 BBQ pork sand 8.95
1 chicken finger (kid) 7.95
1 spaghetti pasta (kid) 7.95
14 Lite beers 42.00
1 312 beer 4.25
2 by the glass Tudernum Cab reserve 20.00
1 white Albano sav blanc glass 7.00
3 white mezzacorona pinot glass 18.00
1 lg deep dish pizza 22.95
Total - 209.55 + 41.91 (20% tip) automatically added = $266.13
Chipotle, 316 N Michigan, Chicago IL - December 23
Rating - 10.00
Wandered in around 11:45 am as I was heading up North on Michigan for some Christmas shopping and stopped in for a quick bite to eat.
First time I have ever been in a Chipotle with no line, so I was thrilled to walk right up and order. Can't beat the quality or quantity of food you get here. Even though there is usually a long line to get through the people are always friendly!
Chicken Line Item (burrito) 4.26
Small Soda 1.57
Total - $6.50
Wandered in around 11:45 am as I was heading up North on Michigan for some Christmas shopping and stopped in for a quick bite to eat.
First time I have ever been in a Chipotle with no line, so I was thrilled to walk right up and order. Can't beat the quality or quantity of food you get here. Even though there is usually a long line to get through the people are always friendly!
Chicken Line Item (burrito) 4.26
Small Soda 1.57
Total - $6.50
City Gate Grille, Naperville IL - December 17
Rating - 10.00
Headed over for dinner on a Thursday night around 6:30 pm. They had a good crowd in the restaurant and several people in the bar area. We grabbed two seats at the bar, and Katie had dinner while I had a few beers and some apps. Neil, our FAVORITE bartender, was working and took great care of us.
I love sitting in the bar, two large screen tvs behind the bar, good cocktails and cold beer (what else does a man need?). Its comfortable, and the redecoration of the joint looks great!
The tomato soup is FABULOUS, and Katie loved the mussels, salad, and especially the cobbler for dessert.
Great evening, excellent food, and warm/friendly service.
1 Baby Spinach 8.00
1 Tomato Soup 5.00
1 Mussels 10.00
1 Honcrisp Cobbler 6.00
1 Kim Crawford (choc martini) 14.00
1 Open Liquor 12.00
1 UFO (beer) 4.75
Total - $64.68
Headed over for dinner on a Thursday night around 6:30 pm. They had a good crowd in the restaurant and several people in the bar area. We grabbed two seats at the bar, and Katie had dinner while I had a few beers and some apps. Neil, our FAVORITE bartender, was working and took great care of us.
I love sitting in the bar, two large screen tvs behind the bar, good cocktails and cold beer (what else does a man need?). Its comfortable, and the redecoration of the joint looks great!
The tomato soup is FABULOUS, and Katie loved the mussels, salad, and especially the cobbler for dessert.
Great evening, excellent food, and warm/friendly service.
1 Baby Spinach 8.00
1 Tomato Soup 5.00
1 Mussels 10.00
1 Honcrisp Cobbler 6.00
1 Kim Crawford (choc martini) 14.00
1 Open Liquor 12.00
1 UFO (beer) 4.75
Total - $64.68
Trattoria Totuccio, Naperville IL - December 12
Rating - 1.2
This is a new restaurant (in the spot of the "old" Capri), located at Calamos City Gate complex at I88 and Bilter Rd. The interior has not changed from Capri, and when we arrived just after 6 pm on a Saturday night the place was a GHOST TOWN. There was one couple in the dining room and no one in the bar...where we ordered a drink and waited for the rest of our neighbors.
Everyone else arrived within the half hour, and we had a good time having a few holiday cocktails. Bartender was friendly and a lot of fun.
We were seated at our table and there was still only the one other table in the dining room. Our waiter was excellent, great advice and always anticipating our next need (but he should have been with only one table). We were a large group with 6 couples in attendance.
I had their "seafood special" and HATED IT. It was HORRIBLE. YUCK!!!!!!!! It was overcooked salmon with some kind of heavy read sauce....it would have been better if it was the salmon alone...and I ended up scrapping off the sauce.
Katie had the zupa de pesce, and she did not like it all....too bland and not enough seafood.
However, we did end up back in the bar area and had a good time. The bartender was great!
The group consensus was food that ranged from ok to horrible, but it was at a very reasonable price.
I guess the background is that the family who own the place had another spot in St. Charles that was very popular.........but they wont survive until the spring with food like that!
Lots of food
Lots of beer and wine
Some desserts
Total - $105.35 (our share before the tip)
This is a new restaurant (in the spot of the "old" Capri), located at Calamos City Gate complex at I88 and Bilter Rd. The interior has not changed from Capri, and when we arrived just after 6 pm on a Saturday night the place was a GHOST TOWN. There was one couple in the dining room and no one in the bar...where we ordered a drink and waited for the rest of our neighbors.
Everyone else arrived within the half hour, and we had a good time having a few holiday cocktails. Bartender was friendly and a lot of fun.
We were seated at our table and there was still only the one other table in the dining room. Our waiter was excellent, great advice and always anticipating our next need (but he should have been with only one table). We were a large group with 6 couples in attendance.
I had their "seafood special" and HATED IT. It was HORRIBLE. YUCK!!!!!!!! It was overcooked salmon with some kind of heavy read sauce....it would have been better if it was the salmon alone...and I ended up scrapping off the sauce.
Katie had the zupa de pesce, and she did not like it all....too bland and not enough seafood.
However, we did end up back in the bar area and had a good time. The bartender was great!
The group consensus was food that ranged from ok to horrible, but it was at a very reasonable price.
I guess the background is that the family who own the place had another spot in St. Charles that was very popular.........but they wont survive until the spring with food like that!
Lots of food
Lots of beer and wine
Some desserts
Total - $105.35 (our share before the tip)
Dec 17, 2009
Lou Malnati's River North Pizzeria, Chicago IL - December 2
Rating - 6.8
Response via yelp: Matthew,I am so sorry to hear that you had any issue with our service. We take customer complaints like this very seriously and like to use them as much as possible to solve any problems we may be having in the stores. For that reason, the Regional Manager of the River North location would like to talk to you about your experience. If you are comfortable, please message me with your email address or phone number, whichever you would prefer, and I will have her contact you personally.Again, I apologize for your experience and appreciate you bringing it to our attention!
The pizza was EXCELLENT, but everything else was pretty BRUTAL.
I ordered via the phone for a meeting we were having at the office. First of all, you have to be prepared to be on hold for 5 minutes, then the person who took my order was WAY off on her recommendation for how much pizza we needed to order....we did not have nearly enough.
Then there was the deliver issue...first time driver was at our office and didn't know where to park or how to get pizza's to us. When he finally made it he was great, but about 20 minutes after the delivery had been promised, and you know how a group of hungry people who have been in a meeting all day can be.......
Pizza was still hot, and it is awesome. Lower rating is due to all the other hassles....
Large Thin Cheese 12.20
2 Large Thin Cheese and sausage 28.30
Large Cheese and Roni 14.15
Large Thin Cheese, mushroom , green pepper, onion 17.45
Large Thin the Deluxe 17.65
Setups 0.00
Deliver 3.25
Total - 133.32 (includes $20 tip)
Response via yelp: Matthew,I am so sorry to hear that you had any issue with our service. We take customer complaints like this very seriously and like to use them as much as possible to solve any problems we may be having in the stores. For that reason, the Regional Manager of the River North location would like to talk to you about your experience. If you are comfortable, please message me with your email address or phone number, whichever you would prefer, and I will have her contact you personally.Again, I apologize for your experience and appreciate you bringing it to our attention!
The pizza was EXCELLENT, but everything else was pretty BRUTAL.
I ordered via the phone for a meeting we were having at the office. First of all, you have to be prepared to be on hold for 5 minutes, then the person who took my order was WAY off on her recommendation for how much pizza we needed to order....we did not have nearly enough.
Then there was the deliver issue...first time driver was at our office and didn't know where to park or how to get pizza's to us. When he finally made it he was great, but about 20 minutes after the delivery had been promised, and you know how a group of hungry people who have been in a meeting all day can be.......
Pizza was still hot, and it is awesome. Lower rating is due to all the other hassles....
Large Thin Cheese 12.20
2 Large Thin Cheese and sausage 28.30
Large Cheese and Roni 14.15
Large Thin Cheese, mushroom , green pepper, onion 17.45
Large Thin the Deluxe 17.65
Setups 0.00
Deliver 3.25
Total - 133.32 (includes $20 tip)
Dec 9, 2009
Tribeca Grill, New York NY - December 8
Rating - 9.84
We arrived about 11:10 am and were invited by the friendly bar tender to have a seat at the bar until they began to serve lunch at 11:30. We did and he kept our drinks full until they opened, when he took our order and delivered a great meal.
I had the cheeseburger, as did Rob, and we really enjoyed them. Cooked to perfection, excellent fries, and the great service from the bartender.
When we left just after noon there were several tables, and a few more people at the bar. I would like to come back for dinner.
(I lost the itemized receipt)
Total - $56.62 (including tip)
We arrived about 11:10 am and were invited by the friendly bar tender to have a seat at the bar until they began to serve lunch at 11:30. We did and he kept our drinks full until they opened, when he took our order and delivered a great meal.
I had the cheeseburger, as did Rob, and we really enjoyed them. Cooked to perfection, excellent fries, and the great service from the bartender.
When we left just after noon there were several tables, and a few more people at the bar. I would like to come back for dinner.
(I lost the itemized receipt)
Total - $56.62 (including tip)
Grand Hyatt, New York NY - December 8
Rating - 9.664
I love this property and the lobby is spectacular for Christmas.....a sight to see!!!
Stayed in room 3144 and loved it. Decent Internet connection and it is quiet.
Exceptional gym to work out in.
Always a pleasure here.
Prepaid room - 374.25
Total - $432.95
I love this property and the lobby is spectacular for Christmas.....a sight to see!!!
Stayed in room 3144 and loved it. Decent Internet connection and it is quiet.
Exceptional gym to work out in.
Always a pleasure here.
Prepaid room - 374.25
Total - $432.95
Hyatt Regency, Houston TX - December 2
Rating - 8.72
Newly remodeled, 10,000 X nicer than my visit last fall. The place looks great, and the lobby bar was rocking when I returned. I was in room 2829, and it was GREAT - nice and quiet with a great bathroom.
Only complaints are they DON'T have a Regency Club and there is no VIP treatment for Diamond---I am so spoiled but will stay at properties that treat me right. I left a message for the GM on his voicemail with my compliments on the renovation and he must still be too busy to return my call.
Valet parking was a bit expensive at 27.06, but I prepaid the room and got a nice deal at $167.20.
Total - 195.62
Newly remodeled, 10,000 X nicer than my visit last fall. The place looks great, and the lobby bar was rocking when I returned. I was in room 2829, and it was GREAT - nice and quiet with a great bathroom.
Only complaints are they DON'T have a Regency Club and there is no VIP treatment for Diamond---I am so spoiled but will stay at properties that treat me right. I left a message for the GM on his voicemail with my compliments on the renovation and he must still be too busy to return my call.
Valet parking was a bit expensive at 27.06, but I prepaid the room and got a nice deal at $167.20.
Total - 195.62
Lupe Tortilla, Houston TX - December 1
Rating - 9.26
Took 4 customers to dinner on a very rainy Houston night to this excellent Mexican place. It was pouring when we arrived, but it looked like they had great area for kids to play in while the parents had a drink and waited for a table....it was completely fenced in and had playground equipment and a sand box with trucks!
We waited in the bar and had some great margs and chips and salsa....once everyone arrived we were seated at a long table. The place is pretty small and the tables are close so the conversation is easy. Our customers insisted on the beef fajitas and they were EXCEPTIONAL---best I have ever had.
Juan was our server and the service was pretty slow for the minimal crowd in the place. I even gave him my credit card when I wanted the check and it took at least 15 minutes for him to return with the bill.
But the food is GREAT and the atmosphere is excellent.
Great place to take the family, a date, or business guests!!!
16 oz XX draft 4.00
Queso 5.75
Large Guacamole 5.25
2 Gran Gold Rocks (marg) 8.95/per
3 Beef Fajita Grande 32.90/each
Poblano chicken 9.95
2 top shelf rocks (marg) 8.95/per
Original Frozen (marg) 5.75
Total - 175.07****Great value for a party of 7
Took 4 customers to dinner on a very rainy Houston night to this excellent Mexican place. It was pouring when we arrived, but it looked like they had great area for kids to play in while the parents had a drink and waited for a table....it was completely fenced in and had playground equipment and a sand box with trucks!
We waited in the bar and had some great margs and chips and salsa....once everyone arrived we were seated at a long table. The place is pretty small and the tables are close so the conversation is easy. Our customers insisted on the beef fajitas and they were EXCEPTIONAL---best I have ever had.
Juan was our server and the service was pretty slow for the minimal crowd in the place. I even gave him my credit card when I wanted the check and it took at least 15 minutes for him to return with the bill.
But the food is GREAT and the atmosphere is excellent.
Great place to take the family, a date, or business guests!!!
16 oz XX draft 4.00
Queso 5.75
Large Guacamole 5.25
2 Gran Gold Rocks (marg) 8.95/per
3 Beef Fajita Grande 32.90/each
Poblano chicken 9.95
2 top shelf rocks (marg) 8.95/per
Original Frozen (marg) 5.75
Total - 175.07****Great value for a party of 7
Edloes Lounge (Renaissance Hotel), Houston TX - December 1
Rating - 8.1
I arrived a bit after 1 and the only spot for a quick lunch was in the hotel lobby bar. Jean was the bartender and she was very accommodating as I wanted something quick.
The bar itself is very modern, and I ordered the chicken tenders. They had a bit too much breading for me, but the fries were excellent and I was starving!!
Would like to stop back here for a drink sometime.
1 ice tea 2.50
1 shiner ck tender 7.00
Total - $10.28
I arrived a bit after 1 and the only spot for a quick lunch was in the hotel lobby bar. Jean was the bartender and she was very accommodating as I wanted something quick.
The bar itself is very modern, and I ordered the chicken tenders. They had a bit too much breading for me, but the fries were excellent and I was starving!!
Would like to stop back here for a drink sometime.
1 ice tea 2.50
1 shiner ck tender 7.00
Total - $10.28
Ringling Brothers Zing Zang Zoom, United Center - November 28
Oops I already reviewed it (in November)
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade - November 26
Rating - 10.00 +++++++++
It starts early (8:30 am) and people with chairs are out around 7:30 to get a spot....and it was cold and rainy this year. But that did not keep the crowds away....it was probably 6 deep when we went down around 9:15 am. The little guys did manage to squirm their way to the front by the curb, while I stayed back on the sidewalk. As time went on the crowd really began to lighten up...which was too bad because the last band before Santa was the Bruin Pride Bank (from SMSU).
Parade was great and the kids always love it.....it is the 8th year in a row we have attended.
Total - FREE
It starts early (8:30 am) and people with chairs are out around 7:30 to get a spot....and it was cold and rainy this year. But that did not keep the crowds away....it was probably 6 deep when we went down around 9:15 am. The little guys did manage to squirm their way to the front by the curb, while I stayed back on the sidewalk. As time went on the crowd really began to lighten up...which was too bad because the last band before Santa was the Bruin Pride Bank (from SMSU).
Parade was great and the kids always love it.....it is the 8th year in a row we have attended.
Total - FREE
Palmer House Hilton, Chicago IL - November 25
Rating - 10.00 +++++++++++++
This place is exceptional, a true Chicago landmark, I had not been in the property for two year - or since the renovation was completed. It has been restored to one of the finest properties in the entire world.
The outside remains the same, but when you get into the lobby it is fantastic. Especially when decorated for Christmas. We are using the family picture shot in front of the tree for our card this year, and it was almost non-stop picture taking from everyone who walked by the tree.
After we checked in (more on that in a minute) we had to go have a drink in the lobby. The bar is cozy and is in/out of the restaurant, and there are plenty of tables and chairs to sit in the lobby itself. It was awesome just to take in the view and enjoy a drink....we almost stayed for another but had to head out for dinner.
With the location of the property (State Street in the theatre district/a block from Millennium Park) this is a MUST STAY while in Chicago.
As for the room, the general manager Dean Lane really took care of my family. He put us in the best room I have ever stayed in (The Daley Suite) right on the parade route/State Street, and had a bottle of wine and cookies and milk for the kids in the room. Nicest gesture of the year based on all the nights I have spent in hotel rooms this year. Even without this special treatment I would stay here every time downtown!!!!!
This place is exceptional, a true Chicago landmark, I had not been in the property for two year - or since the renovation was completed. It has been restored to one of the finest properties in the entire world.
The outside remains the same, but when you get into the lobby it is fantastic. Especially when decorated for Christmas. We are using the family picture shot in front of the tree for our card this year, and it was almost non-stop picture taking from everyone who walked by the tree.
After we checked in (more on that in a minute) we had to go have a drink in the lobby. The bar is cozy and is in/out of the restaurant, and there are plenty of tables and chairs to sit in the lobby itself. It was awesome just to take in the view and enjoy a drink....we almost stayed for another but had to head out for dinner.
With the location of the property (State Street in the theatre district/a block from Millennium Park) this is a MUST STAY while in Chicago.
As for the room, the general manager Dean Lane really took care of my family. He put us in the best room I have ever stayed in (The Daley Suite) right on the parade route/State Street, and had a bottle of wine and cookies and milk for the kids in the room. Nicest gesture of the year based on all the nights I have spent in hotel rooms this year. Even without this special treatment I would stay here every time downtown!!!!!
Original Pizzeria Uno, Chicago IL - November 25
Rating - 9.999
Even the night before Thanksgiving they had a big crowd in at dinner time. We arrived a bit later than we wanted to (but really enjoyed a drink at the Palmer House) and were told the wait was 45 minutes for a party of 5. We headed into to check on the bar and there were 2 seats available. I put the little guy in one, but the bartender told us kids could not sit at the bar alone. So I sat and put him on my lap. Joel M was an awesome bar tender and was always quick to fill a drink or keep the kids happy. We ordered the cheese stix and little guys were happy.
1 kids soda 1.19
1 Goose Seas Pil (beer) 5.79
2 Gls Excelsior CS 13.38
1 Cheese Stix 6.49
Bar Total - $29.93
Then the main event began, and we only waited about 1/2 hour. We were seated at our favorite round table in the back (the little guy is held hostage by the wall) and waited another 20 minutes or so for our pie.
It was breath taking to see it arrive and get a piece on the plate. The best pizza in the world!!! We ate all of it except for one piece that we took back to the room (for Aunt Tracy). John D provided decent service to us and all were happy.
1 med deep dish, sausage 18.79
Salad bowl 4.29
1 Goose I seas pil (beers) 11.58
1 Gls Red Truck PN 7.99
1 kids pasta 3.59
Dinner Total - $51.56
***Absolutely an exceptional dinner out for the family for $96 bucks total
Even the night before Thanksgiving they had a big crowd in at dinner time. We arrived a bit later than we wanted to (but really enjoyed a drink at the Palmer House) and were told the wait was 45 minutes for a party of 5. We headed into to check on the bar and there were 2 seats available. I put the little guy in one, but the bartender told us kids could not sit at the bar alone. So I sat and put him on my lap. Joel M was an awesome bar tender and was always quick to fill a drink or keep the kids happy. We ordered the cheese stix and little guys were happy.
1 kids soda 1.19
1 Goose Seas Pil (beer) 5.79
2 Gls Excelsior CS 13.38
1 Cheese Stix 6.49
Bar Total - $29.93
Then the main event began, and we only waited about 1/2 hour. We were seated at our favorite round table in the back (the little guy is held hostage by the wall) and waited another 20 minutes or so for our pie.
It was breath taking to see it arrive and get a piece on the plate. The best pizza in the world!!! We ate all of it except for one piece that we took back to the room (for Aunt Tracy). John D provided decent service to us and all were happy.
1 med deep dish, sausage 18.79
Salad bowl 4.29
1 Goose I seas pil (beers) 11.58
1 Gls Red Truck PN 7.99
1 kids pasta 3.59
Dinner Total - $51.56
***Absolutely an exceptional dinner out for the family for $96 bucks total
Mr. A's, Crystal Lake IL - November 24
Rating - 9.86
Had lunch here with my dad on a rainy Tuesday afternoon around noon....most tables were filled. This is a Crystal Lake institution, and I can remember having lunch here for at least 35 years....one of my parents favorite spots.
Dad and I ordered the traditional beef sandwich....and they are EXCELLENT. I love them. Tons of beef, enough juice so you don't need a drink and an excellent roll. Fries are a bit on the down side, but to sit here and enjoy a great lunch is awesome.
And the price is so cheap its a GREAT VALUE.
Beef 4.75
Reg fry 1.35
LG drink 1.40
Hot Dog with every 2.60
Reg/small drink 1.35
Total - $12.23
Had lunch here with my dad on a rainy Tuesday afternoon around noon....most tables were filled. This is a Crystal Lake institution, and I can remember having lunch here for at least 35 years....one of my parents favorite spots.
Dad and I ordered the traditional beef sandwich....and they are EXCELLENT. I love them. Tons of beef, enough juice so you don't need a drink and an excellent roll. Fries are a bit on the down side, but to sit here and enjoy a great lunch is awesome.
And the price is so cheap its a GREAT VALUE.
Beef 4.75
Reg fry 1.35
LG drink 1.40
Hot Dog with every 2.60
Reg/small drink 1.35
Total - $12.23
Hyatt Regency at Grand Central, New York NY - November 17
Rating - 10.00
Favorite place to stay in Midtown....and my buddy Jeff Monson took care of me once again. Probably my favorite room I have been in.....3389.....love the gym here because there are plenty of machines and the Regency Club is always decent and the service is great.
Prepaid room - $383.20
Total - 443.22 (after taxes)
Favorite place to stay in Midtown....and my buddy Jeff Monson took care of me once again. Probably my favorite room I have been in.....3389.....love the gym here because there are plenty of machines and the Regency Club is always decent and the service is great.
Prepaid room - $383.20
Total - 443.22 (after taxes)
The Capital Grille, New York NY - November 18
Rating - 9.3
We met a few customers here for lunch at their request. It is located near Grand Central and is like many of the other Capital Grilles in the US that I have been to.....very old school feel and conservative vibe....most people were in suites.
We had a round table for 6 and it was a bit hard to hear the people across from you. Adam T was our waiter and he was quite good. It did take a bit of time for our food to arrive.
I had the Sirloin Steak with the Kona rub and it was AMAZING. I was not sure I could eat another steak after my feast at Benjamins the night before, but I finished every bite. I would go back just to have this steak.
Very good spot to entertain clients who are a bit formal.
Ice tea 3.00
Diet Coke 3.00
Club Soda 3.00
Shrimp cocktail 16.00
chowder Cup 7.00
Lobster Bisque Cup 12.00
Lobster and Crab cakes 19.00
4 Sirloin steak 10 oz with kona rub 116.00
tuna salad 22.00
Sirloin steak 26.00
Total - $254.77
We met a few customers here for lunch at their request. It is located near Grand Central and is like many of the other Capital Grilles in the US that I have been to.....very old school feel and conservative vibe....most people were in suites.
We had a round table for 6 and it was a bit hard to hear the people across from you. Adam T was our waiter and he was quite good. It did take a bit of time for our food to arrive.
I had the Sirloin Steak with the Kona rub and it was AMAZING. I was not sure I could eat another steak after my feast at Benjamins the night before, but I finished every bite. I would go back just to have this steak.
Very good spot to entertain clients who are a bit formal.
Ice tea 3.00
Diet Coke 3.00
Club Soda 3.00
Shrimp cocktail 16.00
chowder Cup 7.00
Lobster Bisque Cup 12.00
Lobster and Crab cakes 19.00
4 Sirloin steak 10 oz with kona rub 116.00
tuna salad 22.00
Sirloin steak 26.00
Total - $254.77
Benjamin Steakhouse, New York NY - November 17
Rating - 10.00++++++++++++
Excellent. Exceptional. The BEST.
This is my favorite place to take clients, or a group of business associates. Located a block away from Grand Central Station. Make sure you make a reservation even on a Tuesday night.
We arrived around 8 pm and the place was packed. We had a few drinks in (the VERY SMALL) bar while we waited for our table. Although the bar was extremely crowded, the service is fantastic.
Once seated our waiter was Arben...usually we ask for Arty but he was serving a private party upstairs. His service was impeccable throughout the night!
We all started with the sizzling bacon slice....this is a slice of heaven.....that you MUST have. Next were the wedge salads followed by Steak for 6. It is served on plates that come out of the oven and are basically huge T Bones that have been pre-cut. It is also the BEST STEAK ON EARTH.
The sides are all great, I love the creamed spinach, and the deserts are grand. In addition the wine list is excellent and reasonably priced.
We also enjoyed a round of Jamo shots on the house.....which is always appreciated....and has seemingly disappeared from the bar/restaurant scene.
As I stated earlier this is my favorite place in New York and it is a must visit for dinner!!!!
4 Gl Beringer Cabernet 44.00
6 Amstel Light 48.00
7 Heineken 56.00
1 Gl Raymond Merlot 12.00
2 222 Ridge Three Valleys 104.00
6 Jameson 71.70
6 Sizzling Bacon Slice 18.00
5 wedge salad 49.75
2 Steak for 3 245.70
1 German Potato 11.95
1 Creamed Spinach 8.95
1 Sauteed Broccoli 9.95
1 Cheesecake 9.95
Total - 751.59
Excellent. Exceptional. The BEST.
This is my favorite place to take clients, or a group of business associates. Located a block away from Grand Central Station. Make sure you make a reservation even on a Tuesday night.
We arrived around 8 pm and the place was packed. We had a few drinks in (the VERY SMALL) bar while we waited for our table. Although the bar was extremely crowded, the service is fantastic.
Once seated our waiter was Arben...usually we ask for Arty but he was serving a private party upstairs. His service was impeccable throughout the night!
We all started with the sizzling bacon slice....this is a slice of heaven.....that you MUST have. Next were the wedge salads followed by Steak for 6. It is served on plates that come out of the oven and are basically huge T Bones that have been pre-cut. It is also the BEST STEAK ON EARTH.
The sides are all great, I love the creamed spinach, and the deserts are grand. In addition the wine list is excellent and reasonably priced.
We also enjoyed a round of Jamo shots on the house.....which is always appreciated....and has seemingly disappeared from the bar/restaurant scene.
As I stated earlier this is my favorite place in New York and it is a must visit for dinner!!!!
4 Gl Beringer Cabernet 44.00
6 Amstel Light 48.00
7 Heineken 56.00
1 Gl Raymond Merlot 12.00
2 222 Ridge Three Valleys 104.00
6 Jameson 71.70
6 Sizzling Bacon Slice 18.00
5 wedge salad 49.75
2 Steak for 3 245.70
1 German Potato 11.95
1 Creamed Spinach 8.95
1 Sauteed Broccoli 9.95
1 Cheesecake 9.95
Total - 751.59
TGI Friday's, Penn Station NY - November 17
Rating - .002
Located right in the station, it is just plain AWFUL. Headed here at 11:30 for a bite while we waited for our train. The space itself is ugly, and we sat at the sticky/dirty bar. Ewa was our bartender and she was the only good thing in the place.
I ordered the Jack Daniels chicken and it was HORRIBLE, Shamus had the Dragon Fire Chicken that he ate only because he was starved.
And it was WAY overpriced.
Next time I would eat my shoe instead.
Ice Tea 3.99
JD CHX Sand 10.95
Dragon Fire Chicken 19.59
Total - $37.59
Located right in the station, it is just plain AWFUL. Headed here at 11:30 for a bite while we waited for our train. The space itself is ugly, and we sat at the sticky/dirty bar. Ewa was our bartender and she was the only good thing in the place.
I ordered the Jack Daniels chicken and it was HORRIBLE, Shamus had the Dragon Fire Chicken that he ate only because he was starved.
And it was WAY overpriced.
Next time I would eat my shoe instead.
Ice Tea 3.99
JD CHX Sand 10.95
Dragon Fire Chicken 19.59
Total - $37.59
City Gate Grille, Naperville IL - November 21
Rating - 8.2
This is located where the old Riva was before....in the Calamos building on the NE corner of I88 and Rt 59.
They did do a slight make-over to the interior and it looks better than ever. We went in around 6:30 on a Saturday night without a reservation. Our favorite waiter from another restaurant is now here, so we sat in Pablo's section....make sure you ask for him!!!
We had a great time...the chef came out and introduced himself and made some recommendations. The bread they service is excellent and I had the soup of the day first (a tomato something it was great) while Katie had the seafood soup of the day (loved it). She then had the baby spinach salad (loved it) and for entrees I had the swordfish (exceptional) while she had the scallops (great). We also had an excellent bottle of Flowers Chard. After dinner we moved over to the bar.....
Where I finished the last glass of wine and Katie had a chocolate martini. Bar area is pretty much the same, and we have always enjoyed having a drink here even if we had dinner elsewhere.
1 Days soup 6.00
1 tomato soup 5.00
1 Baby spinach 8.00
1 Swordfish 26.00
1 Scallops 23.00
3 UFO (great beers) 14.25
1 Flowers Chard 65.00
Total - $159.40
This is located where the old Riva was before....in the Calamos building on the NE corner of I88 and Rt 59.
They did do a slight make-over to the interior and it looks better than ever. We went in around 6:30 on a Saturday night without a reservation. Our favorite waiter from another restaurant is now here, so we sat in Pablo's section....make sure you ask for him!!!
We had a great time...the chef came out and introduced himself and made some recommendations. The bread they service is excellent and I had the soup of the day first (a tomato something it was great) while Katie had the seafood soup of the day (loved it). She then had the baby spinach salad (loved it) and for entrees I had the swordfish (exceptional) while she had the scallops (great). We also had an excellent bottle of Flowers Chard. After dinner we moved over to the bar.....
Where I finished the last glass of wine and Katie had a chocolate martini. Bar area is pretty much the same, and we have always enjoyed having a drink here even if we had dinner elsewhere.
1 Days soup 6.00
1 tomato soup 5.00
1 Baby spinach 8.00
1 Swordfish 26.00
1 Scallops 23.00
3 UFO (great beers) 14.25
1 Flowers Chard 65.00
Total - $159.40
Park Grill, Chicago IL - November 12
Rating - 10.0
We had a dinner after our board meeting here. The place is located right in Millenium Park, and the skating rink is right outside the main entrance. In the summer they have a great bar outside to have a drink at.
We had a private room and the service was impecible. For dinner there were several choices and everyone really enjoyed the food....the room has a great setting and is awesome for hosting a private event.
Everyone left happy - and that is a good thing.
We had a dinner after our board meeting here. The place is located right in Millenium Park, and the skating rink is right outside the main entrance. In the summer they have a great bar outside to have a drink at.
We had a private room and the service was impecible. For dinner there were several choices and everyone really enjoyed the food....the room has a great setting and is awesome for hosting a private event.
Everyone left happy - and that is a good thing.
Kansas City International (ha, ha) MCI - November 11
Rating - 6.2
My only beef is how far away from the central business district (in KC proper) it is....its goofy getting out of downtown on a one lane (in each direction) bridge....and I was in a hurry.
Rental car facility is off property and you have to take a bus which always sucks, but the terminals are laid out in a great fashion. Each one is its own "pod" with parking in the middle. It would be excellent to live near it and travel....also due to the layout the gates share security...no lines and right to the departure gate. Also like the bar in the gate area.....
My only beef is how far away from the central business district (in KC proper) it is....its goofy getting out of downtown on a one lane (in each direction) bridge....and I was in a hurry.
Rental car facility is off property and you have to take a bus which always sucks, but the terminals are laid out in a great fashion. Each one is its own "pod" with parking in the middle. It would be excellent to live near it and travel....also due to the layout the gates share security...no lines and right to the departure gate. Also like the bar in the gate area.....
Hyatt Regency Crown Center, Kansas City MO - November 11
Rating - 3.4
Pulled up around 4 pm and the place was empty.....more like deserted. The lobby is very nice and features a nice water fall as a back drop.....the girl who checked me in was friendly and said bidness was SLOW.
I used one of my "diamond" upgrades to check out their suites, room 2522, and it was OLD. Do not pay for a suite if you stay here. Decor was very dated but it was decent size, although the coach had been there a long time and I was afraid to lay on it. Desk was awful for anyone who wanted to work at it, and wireless internet connect was horrible.
I had their room service chicken sandwich (and fries) for dinner and it was pretty decent. Kind of hard to believe the wait was 30 minutes....
I also had breakfast at their restaurant and there were a few more people around. It was a buffet, nothing special but pretty decent.
I guess a lot of activities still happen at Crown Center in Kansas City, and I would only stay at the property for a special event. Not for bidness travel.
Room service 18.25
Valet Parking 18.00 (which by the way is a JOKE, the garage is right next to the property)
Room 183.20 (I prepaid it)
Total - $249.08
Pulled up around 4 pm and the place was empty.....more like deserted. The lobby is very nice and features a nice water fall as a back drop.....the girl who checked me in was friendly and said bidness was SLOW.
I used one of my "diamond" upgrades to check out their suites, room 2522, and it was OLD. Do not pay for a suite if you stay here. Decor was very dated but it was decent size, although the coach had been there a long time and I was afraid to lay on it. Desk was awful for anyone who wanted to work at it, and wireless internet connect was horrible.
I had their room service chicken sandwich (and fries) for dinner and it was pretty decent. Kind of hard to believe the wait was 30 minutes....
I also had breakfast at their restaurant and there were a few more people around. It was a buffet, nothing special but pretty decent.
I guess a lot of activities still happen at Crown Center in Kansas City, and I would only stay at the property for a special event. Not for bidness travel.
Room service 18.25
Valet Parking 18.00 (which by the way is a JOKE, the garage is right next to the property)
Room 183.20 (I prepaid it)
Total - $249.08
Spectators, Kansas City MO - November 10
Rating - 9.76
Great little sports bar located in the Hyatt Regency Crown Center. Met a customer here for a few beers and it is warm and friendly with a sports (imagine that) tilt. Russsell was a great bar tender, and all the services in the place were friendly.
We sat at the bar and the conversation was easy and it was not too quiet/loud.
Would stop back again for sure.......
6 Draft wheat @ 5.75 34.50
2 Blvd Wheat @ 5.50 11.00
Total - $49.92
Great little sports bar located in the Hyatt Regency Crown Center. Met a customer here for a few beers and it is warm and friendly with a sports (imagine that) tilt. Russsell was a great bar tender, and all the services in the place were friendly.
We sat at the bar and the conversation was easy and it was not too quiet/loud.
Would stop back again for sure.......
6 Draft wheat @ 5.75 34.50
2 Blvd Wheat @ 5.50 11.00
Total - $49.92
2Toots Steam Whistle Grill, Downers Grove IL - November 15
Rating - 10.00
I love this place and so do the kids....how can you not really enjoy a spot where the food is excellent and a train delivers it right to you!!!
Just make sure to arrive early/late or be prepared to wait.
We arrived about 11:30 and grabbed a spot right at the counter. Everything was great as always (make sure and get a root beer float)!!
1 root beer float 3.95
1 soda 1.75
1 cheeseburger 6.55
1 egg salad sand 4.95
2 kd chicken nuggets 3.95 per
1 kids grilled cheese 3.75
3 train cupcakes 5.25
Total - 36.74*** best value in town
I love this place and so do the kids....how can you not really enjoy a spot where the food is excellent and a train delivers it right to you!!!
Just make sure to arrive early/late or be prepared to wait.
We arrived about 11:30 and grabbed a spot right at the counter. Everything was great as always (make sure and get a root beer float)!!
1 root beer float 3.95
1 soda 1.75
1 cheeseburger 6.55
1 egg salad sand 4.95
2 kd chicken nuggets 3.95 per
1 kids grilled cheese 3.75
3 train cupcakes 5.25
Total - 36.74*** best value in town
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
Rating - 10.00 (9 year old)/2.2 (43 year old)
My daughter loved the movie......couldn't stop giggling the entire way through. I thought it was pretty brutal, they tried to put some adult jokes in there but they missed the mark with me.
It was priceless to spend some 1-1 time with my little girl.....
My daughter loved the movie......couldn't stop giggling the entire way through. I thought it was pretty brutal, they tried to put some adult jokes in there but they missed the mark with me.
It was priceless to spend some 1-1 time with my little girl.....
Tinsel Town USA, Aurora IL - November 6
Rating - 9.7
This is a great movie theater complex located at I88 and Rt 31.
We went to the first movie of the day (2 pm), and all tickets are $3.00 -- great value. Still got clobbered on the popcorn, but the theatre we were in was nice, picture and sound were good.
Daughter also did a dance show here one night and crowd can be a little suspect later at night....
Enjoyable day!!
This is a great movie theater complex located at I88 and Rt 31.
We went to the first movie of the day (2 pm), and all tickets are $3.00 -- great value. Still got clobbered on the popcorn, but the theatre we were in was nice, picture and sound were good.
Daughter also did a dance show here one night and crowd can be a little suspect later at night....
Enjoyable day!!
Sky Harbor Airport, Phoenix AZ - November 5
Rating - 3.3
After arriving it is a pain to get the rent a car because they are located off site, and you have cross a few lanes of traffic to get to the bus pick-up. Every time I have flown in there have been long lines for the bus. Ride is about 10 minutes and if you don't get GPS you have to drive past terminals to return -- complete pain in the a**.
It is also very confusing to get picked up due to door on each side of baggage claim.
On the return (outbound trip) security can be a pain when flying AA. They are in an old terminal (no Admirals Club) and there is no "premiere" line. After cleaning security there is only 1 sandwich shop and 1 crappy little bar.
The gates themselves are old and run down.
I do remember the SWA gates being nicer........
After arriving it is a pain to get the rent a car because they are located off site, and you have cross a few lanes of traffic to get to the bus pick-up. Every time I have flown in there have been long lines for the bus. Ride is about 10 minutes and if you don't get GPS you have to drive past terminals to return -- complete pain in the a**.
It is also very confusing to get picked up due to door on each side of baggage claim.
On the return (outbound trip) security can be a pain when flying AA. They are in an old terminal (no Admirals Club) and there is no "premiere" line. After cleaning security there is only 1 sandwich shop and 1 crappy little bar.
The gates themselves are old and run down.
I do remember the SWA gates being nicer........
Legend Trail Golf Course, Scottsdate AZ - November 5
Rating - 8.3
Pretty solid track at a really good price.....great practice facility (I would go just for this). It is a bit of a drive from the center of town....
Arrived 1/2 hour before our tee time and the guys working bag drop and the club house were GREAT. They were able to re spike my shoes (a bit pricey at $20) before the round while we warmed-up on the excellent range.
Played from the silver tees at 6400 yards and it was a bit challenging, shot 86, but very playable.
Not a tradition desert course because there must be at least a million homes surrounding the course...and it doesn't feel like you are out in the desert, and limits the views of the mountains.
But it is spectacularly maintained, tee boxes, fairways and greens were all in GREAT SHAPE. Only down side is that it is a bit unimaginative with not much variety through the holes.
I will say the pro shop is very nice, dogs at the turn were EXCEPTIONAL, and it was a lovely experience.
A bit of a drive back to the airport (45 minutes), but I would return to play when back in the Valley.
Total - $150.00 (for two of us)
Pretty solid track at a really good price.....great practice facility (I would go just for this). It is a bit of a drive from the center of town....
Arrived 1/2 hour before our tee time and the guys working bag drop and the club house were GREAT. They were able to re spike my shoes (a bit pricey at $20) before the round while we warmed-up on the excellent range.
Played from the silver tees at 6400 yards and it was a bit challenging, shot 86, but very playable.
Not a tradition desert course because there must be at least a million homes surrounding the course...and it doesn't feel like you are out in the desert, and limits the views of the mountains.
But it is spectacularly maintained, tee boxes, fairways and greens were all in GREAT SHAPE. Only down side is that it is a bit unimaginative with not much variety through the holes.
I will say the pro shop is very nice, dogs at the turn were EXCEPTIONAL, and it was a lovely experience.
A bit of a drive back to the airport (45 minutes), but I would return to play when back in the Valley.
Total - $150.00 (for two of us)
Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix AZ - November 5
Rating - .0000001
This place SUCKS.....joke is on you if you stay here. Only reason we did is because we hosted a customer seminar here the next morning. However, if you like staying in your great-great-great-great grandmothers old time shack you would enjoy it.
We arrived late (around 9 pm) and the valet guys were pretty good. I don't know if you can self park the car anywhere close. Valet asked my name and spoke into his headset, but after I walked the ten feet to the front desk the clerk had no clue who I was or what I was doing there (basically no clue at all). She couldn't tell me where our event would be (I like to check out the room the night before) or if anything had arrived for us (we shipped some things).
I headed up to the room and it reeked of fresh paint. I was going to call down, but decided I would stop on my way to the fitness center. The itself was AWFUL - could have really used a good cleaning and some new wall paper.....it just looked old and beat-up. Don't ever get suckered into staying in room 827.
Headed down to front desk and asked if the room was just painted, answer was "I don't think so", and instead of asking if they put me in a new room that was it. Service = Horrible.
The "newly remodeled" fitness center was weak -- very, very small, limited free weights, tread mills/ellipticals, and old weight machines. It would be a disaster if they had a house full of people who wanted to work out. Might be a nice spot if you were over 100 years old!
Headed back up to the room and was unimpressed with the shower and bathroom. I would say it was on par with a Super 8.
Although breakfast was included in our package, I headed down early to our event. I will say the food for that was great, service was top notch and the coffee cake was so unbelievably good...I also liked the free shoe shine.
No way would I ever stay at this location or any Ritz for that matter.
Total - $231.80 (room was 208 for the Schwab rate - including $18 breakfast)
This place SUCKS.....joke is on you if you stay here. Only reason we did is because we hosted a customer seminar here the next morning. However, if you like staying in your great-great-great-great grandmothers old time shack you would enjoy it.
We arrived late (around 9 pm) and the valet guys were pretty good. I don't know if you can self park the car anywhere close. Valet asked my name and spoke into his headset, but after I walked the ten feet to the front desk the clerk had no clue who I was or what I was doing there (basically no clue at all). She couldn't tell me where our event would be (I like to check out the room the night before) or if anything had arrived for us (we shipped some things).
I headed up to the room and it reeked of fresh paint. I was going to call down, but decided I would stop on my way to the fitness center. The itself was AWFUL - could have really used a good cleaning and some new wall paper.....it just looked old and beat-up. Don't ever get suckered into staying in room 827.
Headed down to front desk and asked if the room was just painted, answer was "I don't think so", and instead of asking if they put me in a new room that was it. Service = Horrible.
The "newly remodeled" fitness center was weak -- very, very small, limited free weights, tread mills/ellipticals, and old weight machines. It would be a disaster if they had a house full of people who wanted to work out. Might be a nice spot if you were over 100 years old!
Headed back up to the room and was unimpressed with the shower and bathroom. I would say it was on par with a Super 8.
Although breakfast was included in our package, I headed down early to our event. I will say the food for that was great, service was top notch and the coffee cake was so unbelievably good...I also liked the free shoe shine.
No way would I ever stay at this location or any Ritz for that matter.
Total - $231.80 (room was 208 for the Schwab rate - including $18 breakfast)
John Wayne Airport (SNA), Santa Ana CA - November 4
Rating - 10.0
What a great airport to fly out of. First it is located about 10 minutes from Newport Beach, lots of gas stations along the way to fill the car, easy to get into and easy to return car. Short lines at security, lovely terminals - wide, clean bathrooms, and lots of restaurant choices.
Really weird to fly out of....they cut the engines after a near vertical lift-off for noise reduction....
Only wish I lived here!
What a great airport to fly out of. First it is located about 10 minutes from Newport Beach, lots of gas stations along the way to fill the car, easy to get into and easy to return car. Short lines at security, lovely terminals - wide, clean bathrooms, and lots of restaurant choices.
Really weird to fly out of....they cut the engines after a near vertical lift-off for noise reduction....
Only wish I lived here!
Hyatt Regency, Newport Beach CA - November 4
Rating - 7.0
Beautiful property, resort like, with a great 9 hole (Par 3) golf course.
We arrived around 5 pm and headed over to play a quick 9 but it was getting too dark and we only finished 5 holes....but the guy running it was totally cool and let us play for free.
Felt like I was treated just like any other "joe" who stayed there.....even though I am a Hyatt Diamond member....its is kind of strange: sometimes I get a great room/others times it sucks. This time it was just "ok".....room 814.
I am kind of upset because I left my heart rate strap in the room over the tv (to dry) and after check out I realized I had forgotten it. I left a vm, and got a call the next day saying it had not been found........didn't realize there was a black market for them (well they are $40).
So, we headed out to dinner and the valet guys/bellmen are always great, very friendly, and good with places to go/directions.
I would love to take the family here because they do have shuffle board game, ping pong tables and pools all over. Plus the grounds are beautiful and you can get to any point in Newport Beach easily.....its just the lack of recognition for being a valued dedicated "Hyatt Guy" that bugs me.
Total - $156.96 (includes taxes for one night).
Beautiful property, resort like, with a great 9 hole (Par 3) golf course.
We arrived around 5 pm and headed over to play a quick 9 but it was getting too dark and we only finished 5 holes....but the guy running it was totally cool and let us play for free.
Felt like I was treated just like any other "joe" who stayed there.....even though I am a Hyatt Diamond member....its is kind of strange: sometimes I get a great room/others times it sucks. This time it was just "ok".....room 814.
I am kind of upset because I left my heart rate strap in the room over the tv (to dry) and after check out I realized I had forgotten it. I left a vm, and got a call the next day saying it had not been found........didn't realize there was a black market for them (well they are $40).
So, we headed out to dinner and the valet guys/bellmen are always great, very friendly, and good with places to go/directions.
I would love to take the family here because they do have shuffle board game, ping pong tables and pools all over. Plus the grounds are beautiful and you can get to any point in Newport Beach easily.....its just the lack of recognition for being a valued dedicated "Hyatt Guy" that bugs me.
Total - $156.96 (includes taxes for one night).
Yardhouse, Newport Beach CA - November 4
Rating - 9.2
Love these places almost anywhere I go....great spot for a client lunch. This is located in Fashion Island, and we were immediately seated when we arrived around noon. Outstanding service from Alison who was quick with drinks and food.
Menu is mainly bar food, but they do have a nice selection of priced fixed lunches. Lots of tvs with all the sporting channel on, and an interesting crowd of suits from Pimco and Pac Life, and ladies out shopping.
I had the roast beef dip and it is excellent, Paul had the chicken Caesar which he enjoyed and our guest had the Ahi Crunchy (he loved it).
Everyone who works in the place is fast, friendly and efficient. I would return any time I am back!
Diet Coke 2.95
Sprite 2.95
Arnold Palmer 3.45
Small Chicken Tortilla Soup 5.25
Chicken Caesar 12.55
Roast Beef Dip 11.65
Ahi Crunchy 14.95
Total - $58.46
Love these places almost anywhere I go....great spot for a client lunch. This is located in Fashion Island, and we were immediately seated when we arrived around noon. Outstanding service from Alison who was quick with drinks and food.
Menu is mainly bar food, but they do have a nice selection of priced fixed lunches. Lots of tvs with all the sporting channel on, and an interesting crowd of suits from Pimco and Pac Life, and ladies out shopping.
I had the roast beef dip and it is excellent, Paul had the chicken Caesar which he enjoyed and our guest had the Ahi Crunchy (he loved it).
Everyone who works in the place is fast, friendly and efficient. I would return any time I am back!
Diet Coke 2.95
Sprite 2.95
Arnold Palmer 3.45
Small Chicken Tortilla Soup 5.25
Chicken Caesar 12.55
Roast Beef Dip 11.65
Ahi Crunchy 14.95
Total - $58.46
Coco's Newport Beach, CA - November 4
Rating - 0.3
Arrived at 8 am for a "quick" breakfast before a 9 am meeting and waited a few minutes to get seated. Jamie D who was our waiter was very, very busy -- they must have been understaffed because we waited for everything - for drinks, to order, get our breakfasts and the check. And, I felt sorry for him because everyone was mad.
The food itself was marginal at best. There was a lot, but it was not that good....except for the excellent french toast.
The crowd is always amusing to me because they are located right next to Fashion Island - its a mix of retirees, students, guys in suits and regular people having a meal.
NO WAY I would return here........Where is Denny's!!!!!
1 Lumber 8.99
1 Mega 8.69
1 Cof 1.99
H Tea 1.99
1 OJ
Total - $26.26
Arrived at 8 am for a "quick" breakfast before a 9 am meeting and waited a few minutes to get seated. Jamie D who was our waiter was very, very busy -- they must have been understaffed because we waited for everything - for drinks, to order, get our breakfasts and the check. And, I felt sorry for him because everyone was mad.
The food itself was marginal at best. There was a lot, but it was not that good....except for the excellent french toast.
The crowd is always amusing to me because they are located right next to Fashion Island - its a mix of retirees, students, guys in suits and regular people having a meal.
NO WAY I would return here........Where is Denny's!!!!!
1 Lumber 8.99
1 Mega 8.69
1 Cof 1.99
H Tea 1.99
1 OJ
Total - $26.26
Dec 7, 2009
Gulfstream, Newport Beach CA - November 3
Rating - 10.00
Excellent place to grab dinner in Newport on a Tuesday night. We arrived early (around 6 pm) and got a seat outside next to the fire pit. It was a bit chilly, but between the fire pit and the heater it was very comfortable.
Kim provided the BEST service, great recommendations, and good company. The Oysters for an app were huge (too big for my taste), but the beer (Pyramid) and wine (BT Neal family) were great, and my Salmon was exceptional (I think Paul really liked the crab cakes). What a great dining experience........
Headed into the bar for 1 more before we left and it is definitely a COUGAR DEN....yikes had to head in early.
Huge crowd both outside and inside for a Tuesday night.
6 Oysters 14.00
Tres Leches 9.00
Pyramid 7.00
BT Neal Family 48.00 (wine)
Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes 32.00
Pyramid 7.00
Salmon 23.00
Total 152.26
Excellent place to grab dinner in Newport on a Tuesday night. We arrived early (around 6 pm) and got a seat outside next to the fire pit. It was a bit chilly, but between the fire pit and the heater it was very comfortable.
Kim provided the BEST service, great recommendations, and good company. The Oysters for an app were huge (too big for my taste), but the beer (Pyramid) and wine (BT Neal family) were great, and my Salmon was exceptional (I think Paul really liked the crab cakes). What a great dining experience........
Headed into the bar for 1 more before we left and it is definitely a COUGAR DEN....yikes had to head in early.
Huge crowd both outside and inside for a Tuesday night.
6 Oysters 14.00
Tres Leches 9.00
Pyramid 7.00
BT Neal Family 48.00 (wine)
Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes 32.00
Pyramid 7.00
Salmon 23.00
Total 152.26
Rosebud Prime, Chicago - November 2
Rating - 9.99
We had a business lunch and hosted a person we interviewed. This is a great place for a business lunch and the service (Jay was our waiter) is always top notch---as is the food. There is always a good crowd and I like it for a business lunch because its loud enough to not hear the conversation at the next table, but no so loud as have to shout. Everyone is a professional here.
Unfortunately I had a "near death" experience on this particular day, a piece of cheese burger (which was excellent) got stuck in my throat....I left the table in hopes I could get it out in the trash, but was having problems swallowing....so someone on the staff gave me the Heimlich---didn't work the first time so he did it again and I could breath....makes me sick writing this!!!
It turned the GM, David Flom, was the one who came to my rescue. What a great guy he was after the fact, helped me to the stairs so I get to the bathroom, never made a big deal out of it, and actually apologized when I returned back down. He also sent over two complimentary deserts - which was way above the call of duty when he saved my a**.
Just another reason why I really do enjoy having lunch here!
1 arnold palmer 4.95
1 lunch Asian 26.95
1 pork chops 16.95
1 Chz Burger bacon 14.95
1 Mac/cheese 7.25
1 Berries Sabayon 9.00**
1 Granny Smith Pie 9.00**
**credited back
Total - 79.22
We had a business lunch and hosted a person we interviewed. This is a great place for a business lunch and the service (Jay was our waiter) is always top notch---as is the food. There is always a good crowd and I like it for a business lunch because its loud enough to not hear the conversation at the next table, but no so loud as have to shout. Everyone is a professional here.
Unfortunately I had a "near death" experience on this particular day, a piece of cheese burger (which was excellent) got stuck in my throat....I left the table in hopes I could get it out in the trash, but was having problems swallowing....so someone on the staff gave me the Heimlich---didn't work the first time so he did it again and I could breath....makes me sick writing this!!!
It turned the GM, David Flom, was the one who came to my rescue. What a great guy he was after the fact, helped me to the stairs so I get to the bathroom, never made a big deal out of it, and actually apologized when I returned back down. He also sent over two complimentary deserts - which was way above the call of duty when he saved my a**.
Just another reason why I really do enjoy having lunch here!
1 arnold palmer 4.95
1 lunch Asian 26.95
1 pork chops 16.95
1 Chz Burger bacon 14.95
1 Mac/cheese 7.25
1 Berries Sabayon 9.00**
1 Granny Smith Pie 9.00**
**credited back
Total - 79.22
Tilted Kilt, Chicago - October 30
Rating - 9.4
What a great place for lunch!! (kind of funny after my last review about Happy Hour here). Arrived at 11:30 am and it was a good thing, because by 11:45 the line was out the door.
Love the fresh basket of chips they serve when you sit, and Heather was right over to get our drink and lunch orders. She was very friendly, efficient, and great looking!
I had my favorite (Irish dip) and Jeff had the fish and chips (looked great).
Coke 2.50
Arnie Palmer 2.50
Irish Dip 8.99
Fish & Chips 10.99
Total - 27.79
What a great place for lunch!! (kind of funny after my last review about Happy Hour here). Arrived at 11:30 am and it was a good thing, because by 11:45 the line was out the door.
Love the fresh basket of chips they serve when you sit, and Heather was right over to get our drink and lunch orders. She was very friendly, efficient, and great looking!
I had my favorite (Irish dip) and Jeff had the fish and chips (looked great).
Coke 2.50
Arnie Palmer 2.50
Irish Dip 8.99
Fish & Chips 10.99
Total - 27.79
Maxim's Restaurant, Chicago - October 19
Rating - 3.7
Had a breakfast meeting here around 8:30 am and were quickly seated at a dirty/sticky/beat-up booth. Three years ago I used to eat here all the time, but the place is really showing its age.
Service was decent (it should have been with 6 other people in here) and food was marginal at best. No need to return any time soon......or ever again really.
Total - $20.25 for the two of us
Had a breakfast meeting here around 8:30 am and were quickly seated at a dirty/sticky/beat-up booth. Three years ago I used to eat here all the time, but the place is really showing its age.
Service was decent (it should have been with 6 other people in here) and food was marginal at best. No need to return any time soon......or ever again really.
Total - $20.25 for the two of us
Tilted Kilt, Chicago - October 28
Rating - 3.1 (if Amanda was not here it would have been 0.00)
Met the Maggi here at 4 for a few beers before heading home....the place was empty (lonely) with a couple of low life's at the bar. Amanda was bartending and she was the best thing by far. Love it for lunch, but very disappointing for after work beers!
2 Blue Moon - 12.00
Tangueray - 7.00
2 312 - 10.00
Total - $29.00
Met the Maggi here at 4 for a few beers before heading home....the place was empty (lonely) with a couple of low life's at the bar. Amanda was bartending and she was the best thing by far. Love it for lunch, but very disappointing for after work beers!
2 Blue Moon - 12.00
Tangueray - 7.00
2 312 - 10.00
Total - $29.00
2 Toots Steam Whistle Grill, Downers Grove IL - October 23
Rating - 10.00 - PERFECT!!!!
Favorite Place to take the KIDS....its the choo-choo restaurant......we LOVE it.
And the service and food is EXCELLENT!!!!
1 cheeseburger - 6.55
2 kid chicken nuggets (and drink) - 7.90
1 shake 3.95
2 train cupcakes 3.50
Total - 23.60
Favorite Place to take the KIDS....its the choo-choo restaurant......we LOVE it.
And the service and food is EXCELLENT!!!!
1 cheeseburger - 6.55
2 kid chicken nuggets (and drink) - 7.90
1 shake 3.95
2 train cupcakes 3.50
Total - 23.60
Ghurka, New York, NY - December 7
Rating - 9.9 (merchandise); -1,000,000 for service
The store is located in the Plaza Hotel and the place itself is pretty amazing at Christmas time. Decorations are awesome, and it looks like the home of the rich and famous (and FAKE--NICE TAN in the winter).
I headed over for a brief case because I really like my brother in laws and was "helped" by Lourdes. She was efficient, but not really interested, and must not have felt like talking to me or my buddy. It was all bidness.....guess it can be when they are located there.
I bought the "Parker", got my monogram for free, no sales tax as I had it shipped for $21. Beautiful bags in the store.
Can't wait to get the bag, and I would recommend you shop via the web for any of their merchandise.
Total - $995 (bag) + $21 shipping
The store is located in the Plaza Hotel and the place itself is pretty amazing at Christmas time. Decorations are awesome, and it looks like the home of the rich and famous (and FAKE--NICE TAN in the winter).
I headed over for a brief case because I really like my brother in laws and was "helped" by Lourdes. She was efficient, but not really interested, and must not have felt like talking to me or my buddy. It was all bidness.....guess it can be when they are located there.
I bought the "Parker", got my monogram for free, no sales tax as I had it shipped for $21. Beautiful bags in the store.
Can't wait to get the bag, and I would recommend you shop via the web for any of their merchandise.
Total - $995 (bag) + $21 shipping
21 Club, New York NY - December 7
Rating - 8.3
Headed to main (lower level) around 5:15 pm on a Monday evening while walking back to the office and found one of the few open tables. Crowd is all guys in suits (lawyers I would guess) and a few couples on dates (I guess). It is all OLD SCHOOL....from red decor to wait staff.
First thing they do is have you check your coat, and they direct you to the seating area. There is also a really old school stand up bar that became crowded as time went on. They hosted at least one private party this night (coat check asked if we were there for one).
We waited a bit to place a drink order with Michael, each ordered a drink. Service was fairly quick, although they won't win any awards for speed. Atmosphere is formal (all men had their suit coats on) and all were soft spoken. It was very mellow, and I would guess we were the youngest in there by 10 years....either lawyers with clients or low-key deal making.
The dining area would be also best described as "old school" and I like the waiters in tuxs.....have to come back here for dinner sometime. By the time we left at $6 there was a wait for tables in the bar area (and everyone was post 60 years old).
Total - $21.78 (2 chardonnay)
Headed to main (lower level) around 5:15 pm on a Monday evening while walking back to the office and found one of the few open tables. Crowd is all guys in suits (lawyers I would guess) and a few couples on dates (I guess). It is all OLD SCHOOL....from red decor to wait staff.
First thing they do is have you check your coat, and they direct you to the seating area. There is also a really old school stand up bar that became crowded as time went on. They hosted at least one private party this night (coat check asked if we were there for one).
We waited a bit to place a drink order with Michael, each ordered a drink. Service was fairly quick, although they won't win any awards for speed. Atmosphere is formal (all men had their suit coats on) and all were soft spoken. It was very mellow, and I would guess we were the youngest in there by 10 years....either lawyers with clients or low-key deal making.
The dining area would be also best described as "old school" and I like the waiters in tuxs.....have to come back here for dinner sometime. By the time we left at $6 there was a wait for tables in the bar area (and everyone was post 60 years old).
Total - $21.78 (2 chardonnay)
Ach-n-Lous Pizza, Aurora IL - December 6
Rating - 9.4
Ordered a large cheese and large cheese and sausage just before 6 pm on a Sunday night......told wait would be 30 minutes......showed at 6:30 and there were 4-5 people in front of me....the dining room with the picnic tables was completely empty.....and got the pizza's about 6:40.
When I got home and opened them they were GREAT, perfect temperature, and no problems on the drive home.
I did get a beef for my dad, and it was VERY DRY -- tons of beef but way too dry to eat. He took 1/2 the beef off the sandwich.
Love this place for pick-up or to eat in.
Total - $31.08 for the two pizzas (they forgot the beef and I paid $5.75 or so for that)
Ordered a large cheese and large cheese and sausage just before 6 pm on a Sunday night......told wait would be 30 minutes......showed at 6:30 and there were 4-5 people in front of me....the dining room with the picnic tables was completely empty.....and got the pizza's about 6:40.
When I got home and opened them they were GREAT, perfect temperature, and no problems on the drive home.
I did get a beef for my dad, and it was VERY DRY -- tons of beef but way too dry to eat. He took 1/2 the beef off the sandwich.
Love this place for pick-up or to eat in.
Total - $31.08 for the two pizzas (they forgot the beef and I paid $5.75 or so for that)
DancEncounter Nut Cracker
Rating - 10.00
Wow, what a great show this weekend....the stars were Kendall and Kara Wolniewicz...they were very beautiful and graceful.......
Total - Priceless
Wow, what a great show this weekend....the stars were Kendall and Kara Wolniewicz...they were very beautiful and graceful.......
Total - Priceless
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