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A hub for designer shopping and posh residences, Chicago’s Gold Coast lives up to its name—and a stay at the Talbott offers easy access to Michigan and Chicago avenues and their thoroughfares from a pleasantly quieter block.
Built back in 1927 and recently renovated, the Talbott is classic Georgian Revival on the outside and whimsically sophisticated inside—think striking geometric tile, glossy wainscotting, velvet upholstery. You’ll be in good company among the city’s most opulent hotels (Waldorf Astoria, Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, The Drake) with a more intimate, boutique feel and a slightly more attainable price point. Just think of the savings as more cash to splash at this micro-mecca of shopping.
What are the rooms like at The Talbott?
The Talbott’s 178 guest rooms and suites are decorated in soothing shades of ivory and cream with green accents, from emerald subway tiles in the bathroom to jade-hued lamps on the bed tables. Brass-trimmed floral headboards and velvet accent chairs are a romantic touch.
Rotary phones by the elevator and a vintage radio-inspired bluetooth speaker in each room are a clever nod to the hotel’s history, but modern conveniences (filtered water station in the hallway, charging ports near the TV) haven’t been overlooked. There are also plenty of little luxuries—think botanically scented Grown Alchemist toiletries, glass espresso cups for the Nespresso machine, and cool coffee table books.
What is the food like at The Talbott?
In-hotel restaurant Laurel is reminiscent of a European café, with French doors that open out to the sidewalk. Sure, you can order a burger, but flavors pack the most punch in dishes like the braised lamb shank shawarma and shakshuka (labneh-topped eggs baked in tomato sauce). I ordered the mushroom toast, recommended enthusiastically at check-in, and it came topped with roasted cremini, oyster and chanterelle mushrooms and dressed with goat cheese, smoked salt and a sunny side-up egg. It’s rare for a vegetarian dish to feel this indulgent.
For a quick morning bite, local coffee shop Big Shoulders is around the corner, but for a special occasion dinner, two schmancy Italian options are within walking distance (in heels): Adalina from Top Chef Season 21 alumnus Soo Ahn and wine-centric Alpana, named for owner Alpana Singh, a respected sommelier.
What are the facilities like at the Talbott?
The lobby is compact and colorful, with a jewel box of a sitting room (the Gallery Lounge) off to the side. On the 7th floor, a small fitness center stocked with basic equipment is open 24-7.
To get the most for your money, take advantage of the perks included in your $30 destination fee, including two tickets to the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Art Institute, two cocktail vouchers, and a $15 food and beverage credit. Canine companions are also welcome, with some stipulations: $100 non-refundable fee per stay, 50-pound weight limit, and a maximum of two dogs.
What’s the area like around The Talbott?
You’re smack in the middle of Chicago’s luxury shopping district, surrounded by jewelers, posh auto dealers, and all the legacy designers (Hermès, Prada, Dior, et al). There are also plenty of cool-girl labels (Rag & Bone, Anine Bing), status streetwear shops (Grey Goose, A Bathing Ape), and trendy brands (Skims, Aritzia, Glossier). Even doing a laid-back window shop is indulgent—the streets are tree-lined, and doors are flung open onto the sidewalk with each store wafting designer smells.
Rush Street runs diagonally, carving out two tiny triangular parks: Mariano Park, lined with fancy steakhouses and crowded sidewalk cafes, and Connors Park, home to Midwestern favorite Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. There are budget-friendly diversions, too: Listen to a free Friday concert at Fourth Presbyterian Church or stroll along Oak Street to ogle opulent stone condominiums and their overflowing flower boxes. Oh, and grab picnic goodies at Potash Market on State Street and tote them to Oak Street Beach or Lincoln Park.
DETAILS
Address: 20 E. Delaware Place, 60611, Chicago
Price: Starting at about $140 and up, with many dates in the $225-$350 range depending on season.
Closest transport: Half a block walk to State Street buses; 1-block walk to Michigan Avenue buses; 3-block walk to CTA Red Line (Chicago station); 40-minute taxi ride to O’Hare and Midway airports.
Book now: via Booking.com.
➡️ Check out Time Out’s full list of the very best budget hotels in Chicago.
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