CHICAGO
Virgin Hotels, led by Virgin Group and its founder Sir Richard Branson, has opened the doors to its first property, Virgin Hotels Chicago.
Located in the heart of Chicago's Loop district in the historic Old Dearborn Bank Building at 203 N. Wabash Ave. The 26-story Art Deco building, a Chicago landmark, offers 250 guest rooms, including 40 one-bedroom suites and two Penthouse Suites.
Several of the building's original features remain intact and are showcased throughout, like a 1920s oak Cigar Bar that serves as the hotel's front desk, ornate brass elevator doors, and the original mail slot and chute serving all floors.
At the heart of Virgin Hotels Chicago is The Commons Club, a dynamic space where guests can dine, drink, work and mingle, as well as attend the nightly hosted Social Hour. The vibe is one of a private members club, without the fees, where guests and locals alike are welcome. The two-story space it occupies was the original bank floor with its coffered plaster ceiling.
The Commons Club menu, created by Chef Rick Gresh, features a variety of internationally influenced small plates, from Stuffed Potato Tots to a Cauliflower Caesar to Cider Mussels to a Lobster Flatbread. The dinner menus Large Plate options also embody unique and flavorful compositions.
The hotel will have four additional dining options, including Miss Ricky's, a 23-hour, All-American diner and a rooftop bar and lounge, all opening between February and April.
Virgin Hotels Chicago will feature a two-chamber room layout; all guest rooms are divided into two spaces by sliding doors, complete with a peephole. The dressing room includes a full vanity, make-up desk and mirror, an extra-large shower with a bench, and his and hers closets.
Seating from 12 to 108, Virgin Hotels Chicago has three modular spaces on the third floor to accompany a social event, dinner or meeting.
Virgin Hotels has plans to open a second location in Nashville in the summer of 2016 and a third property in New York City in the fall of 2017. The team will announce two additional locations by the end of 2016, as well, with the brand hoping to have 20 locations by 2025.
