All Reviews
Scott Ferreira
a year agoThe Cherry Circle Room at the Chicago Athletic Association hotel offers a quality breakfast experience in a unique atmosphere with distinctive ceiling lighting (very James Turrell-esque). While the pricing is somewhat premium, the straightforward yet satisfying food and good coffee make it a worthwhile morning option if you're staying at or near the hotel. The Van Doozer breakfast was well-executed and enjoyable. Nothing overly fancy, but a solid, satisfying breakfast option that delivers what you'd expect. Though slightly on the pricier side, the quality justifies a return visit for the reliable morning start. The coffee served was good quality, hitting that perfect breakfast companion note without being exceptional. It gave me my necessary morning boost. What truly sets this space apart is the stunning James Turell-esque lighting on the ceiling, creating a distinctive and memorable atmosphere that goes above and beyond just another hotel breakfast spot. One important note for first-time visitors; the main entrance can be tricky to locate, as it's accessed through the Game Room and positioned at the very back. If you're not looking carefully, it's easy to miss, so keep an eye out when navigating to the restaurant. If you visit the Cherry Circle Room for breakfast, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
jamie
2 years agoAn astonishing representation of a hidden gem in Chicago. Not only hidden in the athletic association, but it’s even more inconspicuous. Ya gotta know it’s here, and you gotta make a reservation. The service is without a doubt a shining representation and they should hang their reputation on it, but it’s the unique food choices and interesting menu items that really show how special this spot really is. The drinks by the extremely kind and attentive bartender were spot on. The food was absolutely delicious and incredibly flavorful. If you don’t get an order of the bread and the beet carpaccio, you’ve made a horrible life choice. My sister and I went with the seafood tower so we could try many different options, so I can’t speak to any of the main courses. However, one can’t imagine ordering wrong at a place like this. A must try when in Chicago.
Laura Vélez
2 years agoWe wanted to try this place a long time ago cause I love the idea of a small, cozy and elegant place. The service was very nice and the food on point. For sure we will come back to try their brunch. Thank you!
Sarosh
2 years agoI really wanted to like it especially because it was a very well given hidden restaurant and you wouldn't expect the ambiance to be so rich. That is one thing I cannot take away from that restaurant, the vibe and the environment was fantastic. I'm sure they have some items which are really good. For example, their beef tartar was straight up. Unfortunately that's the only positive comment I can give. I had the grilled sea bass which I was looking forward to. However, I could not continue eating it after 3 bites. Flavorless entree. I decided to take it home so at least my cat could eat it because he loves seafood. My cat took one bite and then went the other way and that entire entree went to waste. And like I said the beef tartar was really good so I told the waiting staff if I can get one order of it to go another one to bring on the table so I can eat that instead. They picked up the plate with the beef tartar with the intention of boxing it up. 20 minutes later, we were told that kitchen won't be making it tonight. Not only did we not get the 2 appetizer, The one that was supposed to be packed never actually made it and I assume they threw it out which was very frustrating. The wait staff was acceptable at best often requiring customers to repeatedly try to get some attention. The dessert took way too long considering it was just a molten chocolate cake which was then boxed.. needless to say, it didn't get eaten either. I was really looking forward to this place because I had heard great things about it. Unfortunately I think they may need to add a couple of people to the wait staff and secondly upgrade the menu or at least present food that would be worth the money. After the $200 dinner, I came back home and ate my Panera bread from that afternoon instead. It tasted better in my in opinion. Maybe I would go back there if the menu changes or they make some strides towards giving more attention to their customers. But at least they have the ambiance thing down. As of now, I think there are plenty of other options which would be much preferred over this one.
Sophie Nguyen
2 years agoThe place is located in a very nice building. The entrance is a bit discreet and hard to find. However, once you enter, the space is really nice and is a perfect date spot. The bartender was professional, polite and the cocktail was amazing. The service was very pleasant, the food came out fast and fast amazing. Order an appetizer and it was pretty yet delicious. Overall, highly recommend
Andrea
2 years agoWhy did we wait so long to go here!? So happy my husband suggested it!! The whole room is beautiful; dark wood and cozy vide. There is a gorgeous bar along one side of the restaurant. It’s sort of hidden behind the game room area of the Athletic Club; almost like a secret, exclusive dining experience which adds to the ambiance. The food is phenomenal. I had the fried chicken and side of creamy macaroni and cheese. Both outstanding. The mac & cheese is truly the best I’ve had in Chicago! My husband had the Whole Fried Sea Bass and a side of fried Brussels Sprouts that he thoroughly enjoyed.
Fe Mim
Edited 2 years agoVery unique atmosphere with good food and service. When you walk into this restaurant you feel that you are walking into a movie. Very cool and intimate restaurant. Cocktails are some of the best that I have had so far. The truffle pasta that we ordered was amazing but fish was just okay. Service was amazing! Highly recommend it if you’re in Chicago.
Jessica Smith
4 years agoI was apart of a party of 5 and we all ordered different starters & entrees so I think we sampled a large number of items on the menu. I ordered the Chicago restaurant week dinner pros-fixe menu’s oyster casino & heritage pork chop. Presentation was wonderful. Service was good. Honestly, taste was just okay for me. I won’t be running back for the food but the cozy and intimate atmosphere was wonderful. And the drinks were top notch. Kudos to the bartender. I had the Waldorf gloom lifter and let me tell you! That name was spot on. There’s no way you don’t feel instant happiness after one sip. I’m in love. I’ll be back for the bar… and I guess I’d order the Brussels. T