There is something very enticing about Chicago in the Fall. For me it is nostalgic, having grown up in the midwest. I often travel to Chicago at different times of the year, but nothing beats walking out of O’hare airport into the warm Autumn sun and cool breeze of the windy city. I was thrilled when asked by Jackie to experience the Le Méridien Hotel in Oakbrook Center, Illinois. I had yet to explore this area and I have to say; the location alone exceeds expectations.
Upon arrival, I noticed that the Hotel was located walking distance to Oakbrook Center Mall, an outdoor shopping area that contains several restaurants, a movie theater, and numerous upscale stores. As someone who travels a lot for business, I know that there is nothing more convenient than having everything you want and need within walking distance to your hotel!
As I approached the entrance to the Le Méridien, I was kindly greeted by the valet and shown to the concierge. I couldn’t help but notice how artfully decorated the lobby of the hotel is. The most stunning feature being the colorful mural splashed across the back wall. The mural, painted by artist Justus Roe, gives a very metropolitan feel to the space. I caught myself gazing at the piece several times during my stay, it is simply mesmerizing.
After checking into the hotel with the welcoming staff, I proceeded up to the fifth floor to check out my room, which was incredibly spacious and comfortable. I loved the modern decor, even the bathroom was tastefully decorated. Upon exploring the rest of the hotel, I was very pleased to find a gym on the tenth floor. Again, coming for someone who travels a lot, it is always nice to be able to get a workout in when possible! Le Méridien also offers Spa services such as salt and oil scrubs, deep tissue massages, and facials.
After taking a walk through the hotel, I decided to check out Oakbrook Center. The weather was absolutely beautiful, so I grabbed a coffee and went for a stroll through the outdoor shopping area. The shopping center features several upscale stores including Neiman Marcus. I was able to catch an amazing sunset when I arrived back at my room, as my room had a beautiful view.
Dinner at El Tapeo was exquisite! The Spanish style tapas restaurant is located on the ninth floor of the Le Méridien. There is a spacious lounge area around the bar, next to a very intimate dining area. This gave a very casual yet upscale feel to the space.
I loved the decor and atmosphere of the restaurant. I sat down, ordered a sangria, and told my waiter to surprise me! I started my meal with the jumbo mussels (mejillones al vapor) The mussels were sautéed in white wine with paprika and longaniza. The sauce was delicious and had a kick to it. I would recommend this dish who loves spicy food as much as I do.
Next I tried the grilled octopus (pulpo) served with black pepper sauce, fennel salad and lime dressing. Again, the sauce was phenomenal. This was my first time trying grilled octopus and I would definitely order it again. My waiter told me that I just had to try the bacon wrapped fried dates and he was right! This was my favorite part of the meal. The dates are stuffed with almonds and served with a side of spicy sauce. They were the prefect blend of sweet and salty. Next up was a dark chocolate brûlée custard served with blackberries on the side for dessert. It was very flavorful and not too heavy. Overall my dining experience was fantastic and I appreciated all of the recommendations.
I decided to turn in early to watch some Thursday night football. My room was comfortable and quiet. I slept like a baby! I would prefer to stay in Oakbrook over the downtown area of Chicago for that reason. It is also very easy to commute between Oakbrook and downtown. There is a train at Elmhurst station just minutes from the Le Méridien ( the free hotel shuttle will bring you) that stops at Ogilvie transportation center on west madison street in Chicago. The commute is only thirty minutes and great for anyone looking to skip out on traffic.
The next morning I finished off my stay with breakfast at Longitude 87, the first floor lounge at the hotel. During check out, I couldn’t help but think about what impeccable service I received during my trip. I will definitely be going back to the Le Méridien, knowing that it is just as convenient for me to stay here than downtown during business trips.
I would like to thank the staff of the Le Méridien for taking pride in their hotel and services, and making my trip a very positive, relaxing experience. I look forward to visiting other locations as well during my travels.
ABOUT OUR GUEST BLOGGER
Born in the midwest, Michelle Lynn Salituro spent most of her childhood in small towns until her family picked up and moved to Boston in the early 90’s. At an early age Michelle developed a love for music, sports, fashion and beauty. Michelle became an accomplished model and makeup artist in her early twenties while living on the east coast. In 2010 she moved to Los Angeles and discovered her love for event marketing. Over the past five years,Michelle has specialized in trade show marketing, event management and production, taking part in hundreds of conventions and events across the US. She is experienced in a diverse array of industries including beauty, fashion, medical and manufacturing. She is known best among her clients for her enthusiasm and her bold, innovative, self-taught marketing tactics. In her free time Michelle enjoys spending time with her family and friends on the east and west coast. She loves cooking, hiking, writing, playing guitar and piano, attending fundraisers, sporting events and concerts. She is currently bicoastal residing in Palm Springs,CA and Boston,MA.
