The Royal Sonesta Chicago River North

We had dinner at CBR on one of the coldest days in Chicago, on January 9th, with friends. We were immediately embraced by the warmth of a cozy atmosphere and delicious food brought by our amazing server, Tareka. She could host a fashion show! The food was a little slow coming out of the kitchen but it suited us fine as we were still thawing out. Tareka recommended a hot tea to warm us up and was very attentive to our table even though she had a bar to attend to. We really enjoyed our experience at the CBR. Great food, cozy atmosphere and the Next Top Model contestant with a flair for fashion and kindness. We were delighted!

The hotel was beautifully decorated, our room was surprisingly huge and extremely inviting. The bed was so so so comfortable and the spa tub was more than worth the extra price. Additionally our doorman Dean was personable, wonderfully helpful and a true asset to the overall experience.

Our stay at the Royal Sonesta Chicago River North was good. We were there for a family wedding. The hotel was clean, quiet and the rooms were comfortable. In one of our rooms, the heater broke and needed to be replaced. This meant my elderly parents needed to move rooms around midnight. This could not have been foreseen by the hotel--machines break. Everyone was very professional and helpful, however, one person in particular gets our highest compliments--Spiro! He moved all my parents' belongings and got them settled in the middle of the night to a new room. However, the new room did not have a roll-in shower, so the next day, after the heater had been replaced, he moved all their things back to the appropriate room! He had our backs for our whole stay, making sure we had what we needed, and loading our car in the freezing cold when we left. We had such confidence in him and appreciate his efforts on our behalf. Thank you, Spiro!! You were our hero!

In the dead of winter I felt like spoiling myself to a king Jr. Spa room because the rates were wonderfully priced. I didn't arrive till around 7pm due to personal work issues but they would have granted me an early check in at noon for being a member of Sonesta. Anyway the hotel is immaculate, cheerful and has been kept in beautiful condition. This hotel was once owned by Kimpton brand formerly known as the Hotel Palomar but its been sold off twice and is now under the ownership of Sonesta. When I arrived at 7pm this incredibly courteous front desk man welcomed me and instantly upgraded me to a 1 bedroom suite with a separate living room area and I was placed on the 17th floor which is wonderful because you can't hear city noises and it feels even more luxurious looking out into the city from the higher levels. The spa bath is why I selected the suite and if you're only five foot one like me honestly you feel like you're in a swimming pool not a jacuzzi hot tub. I spent two hours in the tub till my fingers turned into prunes! I encourage all Chicago locals to enjoy this hotel during the winter months when the rates drop. It's a real affordable treat and you won't regret it!

My wife and I stayed three nights during the last weekend of October 2025, and we had an absolutely wonderful time. I misplaced the card to do the review, and I just found it, so I’m doing it now. Everyone was so wonderful from Ty and Gabby at the front desk, answering questions and helping us. To Spiro when greeting us at the door, and giving me tips on restaurant ideas around town. Then there was Tee the bartender. She was amazing and super friendly. We chatted about Music and the band that we were in town to see. Then I met a person named Shaunda, who was extremely helpful and kind. She was even willing to take my picture with the city in the backdrop on the terrace. That was awesome!! 😁 We were so pleased with our stay in October, that we decided to book three more nights on the first weekend of March to come back. Thanks for everything and we look forward to seeing you guys again.