Stunning Skyline Views and Unforgettable Dining: A Review of Upstairs at The Gwen in Downtown Chicago

 RELAXING. CAREFREE. ELEGANT. 

Upstairs At The Gwen - Chicago, IL

Upstairs At The Gwen, a cherished gem nestled in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, Downtown Chicago, offers a unique experience that is not to be missed! This rooftop lounge, part of the Gwen Hotel, presents a captivating mix of refined small plate offerings and crafted cocktails. With its relaxed, yet sophisticated atmosphere, it effortlessly combines modern and art-deco elements in its design. As the sun sets, the scene is further illuminated by twinkling lights, making the stunning skyline view an awe-inspiring backdrop to your casual dining experience.

On my first adventure to Upstairs at The Gwen, I had a few hours to spare before my flight, so I let Google Maps be my guide. This rooftop spot popped up, and I thought, "Why not?" Best spontaneous decision ever! I wish I could show you more of the amazing food and drinks I had, but you'll just have to take my word for it ;)

It was a feast for the eyes and the palate!

On to the REVIEW:

Unfortunately, the culinary marvels that graced my palate during my visit seem to have taken a bow from the menu, but allow me to paint a picture for you anyway!

The meatballs - unseen in my photos yet forever imprinted in my taste memory. As a self-declared meatball maven, I can tell you, these were the real deal. I devoured them with abandon, decorum be damned!

Next up, the mussels in a spicy tomato sauce - an absolute revelation. Traditionally, I'm a mussels-in-white-wine-sauce kind of gal, but I decided to venture off the beaten path and boy, did it pay off! The Gwen needs to usher these beauties back onto the menu, stat. The sauce was a masterclass in balance - spicy, but not overwhelmingly so, with a creamy undertone that had me longing for a pen and paper to jot down the recipe.

Sipping on a spicy margarita and an enigmatic cocktail (the name escapes me now), I was in libation heaven.

To sweetly cap off my epicurean journey, I indulged in the mini churros - a symphony of textures with a crunch that gave way to a soft, chocolate-laden center. One bite in, and I was echoing a resounding chef's kiss to the Chicago skyline.

In conclusion, Upstairs At The Gwen is an ideal place to spend time in a posh lounge, conveniently located near ORD airport. It offers not just a meal, but a sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression. This place has everything a sophisticated traveler needs. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this rooftop lounge is a must-visit in Chicago. You can expect a delightful mix of tantalizing dishes, crafted cocktails, and an ambiance that is unparalleled.

For more reviews, check out the tags on this blog as well as my YELP profile. And of course, I’m always on Tumblr, Instagram and Twitter.

Ciao!