What’s Haute: Living Luxe in Chicago

Alinea

Alinea is a true haute cuisine restaurant if there ever was one. Artfully prepared dishes are as precious as the prices. It is worth every penny in order to experience one of the top restaurants in the country, which boasts three Michelin stars. Their current tasting menu is 18 mind-blowing courses and must be purchased two months in advance. Lamb 86 ways and intriguing molecular creations like the edible balloon characterizes just what you’re in for.
1723 NORTH HALSTED STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60614 312-867-0110

SOHO House Chicago

One of the biggest and best of all the houses, Chicago’s Soho House is nicely situated in the up-and-coming Fulton Market District. Hit up one of their “public” restaurants: Pizza East, The Allis, or Chicken & Farm Shop, if you’re not a member and just passing by. You can also check in to the hotel and become a member during your stay in order to access all the dining outlets which include the Tavern Restaurant, the House Kitchen, the rooftop brunch and bar. Naturally, between meals you’ll want to hit up Cowshed Spa with a menu just for gents that include hot shaves after a workout in their stunning gym, which is complete with boxing ring and bags in Horween leather from Chicago’s oldest (and the country’s best) tannery.
113-125 NORTH GREEN STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60607 312-754-6915

Waldorf Astoria

Designed in the style of a Parisian “hotel privée,” complete with cobblestone courtyard, the Waldorf Astoria is a charming slice of France in Chicago. Despite giving off the air of a historic grand hotel, this one was built in 2009 as the Elysian. It’s obvious that no expense was spared, especially in the lobby which has impossibly high ceilings, breathtaking sculptures by Javier Marin, and a cadre of knowledgeable staff waiting to attend to every guest’s whim. The Waldorf Astoria Spa & Health Club is also one of the best in the city, with a huge gym, eucalyptus steam room, Swedish sauna and—a blow-dry bar by Rachel Zoe. Something else Zoe would approve of? The Gold Coast neighborhood that means Barneys and Yves Saint Laurent are neighbors.
11 EAST WALTON STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60611 312-646-1300

Ikram

Located on the Gold Coast, Ikram is an anomaly. It’s a shiny, red independent maison of cutting edge and otherwise hard to find brands like Alexander McQueen, Proenza Schouler, Rodarte and more. Owned by fashion guru Ikram Goldman, the store gives female shoppers a well-curated mix of the heavyweights like Chanel and Givenchy. There is a farm-to-table café to hit up after a long afternoon in the dressing room, and a contemporary art gallery for when you fatigue of fashion.
15 EAST HURON STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60611 312-587-1000