Amalfi Hotel Chicago Review

by Heather Holman on Friday, February 22, 2008

Located in the heart of Chicago, the dog friendly Amalfi Hotel has to be one of my favorite hotels I've ever visited. Though not considered a 5-star hotel, the service, décor and amenities exceed that of the 5-star hotels I have stayed. The only thing that is holding them back from a 5 star rating is their lack of a pool, but with so much to do in Chicago who needs a pool? I'm not alone in this opinion, compare the Yahoo Rating and Trip Advisor rating of the Amalfi compared with that of the Bellagio, it blows them away! Voted one of the best hotels in Chicago here's why -

 

During a holiday family trip to Chicago, my husband and I brought our dog Bellatrix to the stylish Amalfi Hotel. We arrived a bit earlier then check-in time but the friendly front desk checked us in early in to a stylish two room suite with a great view. Because we were early they weren't quite ready for Bellatrix but quickly sent up an adorable doggy couch with matching food and water bowls. Though Bellatrix preferred the king sized bed to the doggy bed, because of its beautiful view of the Chicago skyline.

After settling in we took our dog to Millennium Park which was less then 10 blocks from the Hotel. Come to find out dogs aren't allowed in Millennium park but they are OK with them on the outskirts. We took turns looking at The Cloud Gate (better known as Chicago's Bean) and walking the dog around the edge. Then we returned to the hotel to get ready for dinner. The water pressure in the shower was great!

For dinner we walked the dog to the world famous Lou Malnati's Pizzeria which was only five blocks from the hotel. We brought the food back to the hotel. Before heading back to our room, we stopped by the lounge on to the top floor for complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. They had a very nice selection of wines for me and diverse beer selection for my husband. The hors d'oeuvres kept with the Amalfi Coast theme and were traditional Italian dishes such as Bruschetta and Prosciutto. The lounge style was a chic design, similar to the rest of the Hotel and featured ambient lighting, relaxing music and a very friendly staff.

 

The huge difference between the Amalfi and other luxury hotels is they don't nickel and dime you. Just because you can afford a nice hotel, doesn't mean you want to overpay for everything. The Amalfi understands with complimentary services! Yes that's right - A luxury hotel that offers things for FREE. Such as complimentary breakfast, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, free wireless internet and no charge for your pet regardless of its size!