Manager's Reception - Embassy Suites
 

We are staying at any Embassy Suites for the first time (Downtown Chicago). Could someplease elaborate on what the Manager's Reception is. I was told "snacks and drinks". Thanks, Cindy

Cathy, I'll be staying there in mid-June and if the Chicago location is like the other Embassy suites where I've stayed, it's a free "cocktail" hour for registered guests...it actually lasts for about 2 hours...beer, wine and mixed drinks along w/ popcorn, pretzels, nuts, etc all included in the price of the room. <BR> You have to show your key to get into the area or get a drink from the bartender, depending on the local hotel rules. <BR> <BR>Just what I need in Chicago, 2 hrs of FREE drinks! <BR> <BR>This is an excellent location in Chi-town. You're a few blocks from the Mag-mile and some of the better restaurants...Try Maggiano's Little Italy for big, good Italian food. It's part of a chain but manages to keep it's local family atmosphere. <BR>Kal

Although I haven't stayed at the Embassy suites in Chicago, I have stayed at Embassy Suites in Washington, Georgia, Virginia, Florida, and Alabama. Kal's answer is exactly what I have observed.Some locations limit you to two free drinks, others will let you have unlimited drinks, within reason.The snacks are usually popcorn, chips, pretzels.

Thank you both for your replys. I appreciate you taking the time to respond. My kids will love the free snacks and soft drinks...as will we!

i agree with the assessments of the cocktail hour...and when my friends and i were in college we used to go to the embassy suites to get free drinks. they never seemed to check for room keys, but that was 7 years ago. <BR>HOWEVER, if maggianos is the best you can do for italian food in chicago, eat something else. i ate at the one in boston, and it was mediocre at best. bottled vinagrette on the asparagus vinagrette, which was strewn with shavings of tasteless parmiggiano cheese, and served ice cold, not room temp as it should have been. my bolognese sauce was notable only for it's extreme saltiness. it is a typical chain restaurant attempting to be authentic and failing. don't waste your time, money or calories there.

Cathy, Agree on cocktails at Embassy Suites. We stay at the one in So. Shore Tahoe and have a nice time there. <BR> <BR>We have been to Chicago many times and we've never failed to have a good meal at Maggiano's. Granted, you can do better if you're looking for a fancy Italian meal but this is close to your hotel and fairly inexpensive. <BR> <BR>Maybe since the prior poster is the type that sneaks free drinks, she was upset at the Maggianos (that was 1500 miles AWAY) in Chicago because she couldn't pull a fast one on them ? ha ha. <BR>Good place for kids. Lot of noise. If they tell you to get a half order, do it. I'm 6'5" and 255# and barely finished my half order of pasta and meatballs! If the kids like pizza, Gino's East, Giordano's or Pizzeria Uno are all nearby. <BR>Otis

Cathy, there's a very good Greek restaurant right in your hotel. Book ahead, though, they get really busy. While the food was good, the noise level is very high and the service seemed to struggle to keep up with the Saturday night crowd. I'm sure it's better on a weekday or earlier in the evening.