Chicago's Chicest Getaway: The Publishing House B&B
Chicago's Chicest Getaway: The Publishing House B&B
Chicago's Chicest Getaway: The Publishing House B&B – A Review That's Honestly All Over the Place
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your perfectly polished, robotic hotel review. This is the real deal. We're talking about The Publishing House Bed & Breakfast in Chicago, and I'm about to spill the tea, the coffee, and maybe a little bit of my own anxiety about how to even start reviewing something this… well, chic. Prepare for a wild ride.
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First Impressions (or, "When My Overthinking Kicked In"):
Walking into The Publishing House is like… whoa. Total "I'm not worthy" moment. Seriously, it’s a vibe. The exposed brick, the carefully curated artwork, the… books. Everywhere. It's supposed to evoke, I think, a sense of intellectual cool. Did it work? Hell yes. Did it also make me feel like I needed to brush up on my obscure literary references? Absolutely. (Turns out, I still haven't. Don't judge!)
Accessibility & Getting Started: (The Necessary Evil of the Review)
Alright, let's get the practical stuff out of the way. Accessibility is, thankfully, a strong point. The hotel mentions Facilities for disabled guests and an elevator, which is a huge win. While I didn’t personally assess every nook and cranny for wheelchair accessibility (I am not that qualified), based on the information, it seems genuinely considered. It's a good start!
Now, for the internet… Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, YES! Internet access, Internet [LAN], and Internet services are all present and accounted for. Because, let's be honest, in the modern world, no Wi-Fi = no happiness. I needed to feed my insatiable social media addiction, naturally. And the Wi-Fi in public areas was a lovely touch.
The Room: A Sanctuary (And My Occasional Clumsiness)
Okay, the rooms… Oh. My. God. They're gorgeous. The decorations are on point, blending vintage charm with modern comfort. I'm talking Air conditioning, Blackout curtains (a lifesaver!), a comfy desk, a refrigerator stocked with goodies (including Free bottled water - a blessing after my travels to the airport). The bed was ridiculously comfortable. I’m talking Extra long bed; I’m 6’5” and it felt like sleeping on a cloud! Also, Bathroom phone, a Bathtub … I’m now dreaming about my own bathroom phone.
I did, however, manage to trip over my own feet at one point (happens to the best of us), but the carpeting saved me from a spectacular faceplant. The closet, with plenty of space for my ridiculous luggage (and my equally ridiculous outfits), and the Mirror that was well-lit (always important!) Also, the smoke detector and safety/security feature made me feel at ease.
Also, this might be a weird detail, but the socket near the bed was a game changer. No more contorting myself to charge my phone! Kudos, Publishing House, kudos.
Let's Talk Food, 'Cause, You Know, Priorities:
Breakfast [buffet] was the stuff dreams are made of. I’m talking: pastries, fresh fruit, eggs cooked to order, and the best damn coffee I’ve had in ages. There was the Breakfast service and the option for a Breakfast takeaway service, which was perfect for the days where I had too much fun the night before.
And the Asian breakfast with a Coffee shop for an extra shot of energy? Delicious! The Western breakfast was also available, and was just as amazing! Plus, the Bottle of water was a nice touch.
The Restaurants, coffee/tea in the restaurant, and snacks were all amazing. Room service [24-hour] and Happy hour were also available, but I did not indulge this time, because I was trying to not give up too much on my diet (failed after the coffee).
I did not use, but saw that there were Vegetarian restaurant options, with Buffet in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Salad in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, and International cuisine in restaurant.
The Spa & Relaxation: (My Absolute Favorite Part)
Okay, guys, this is where The Publishing House really shines. The Spa/sauna (which includes Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, and Steamroom) is an oasis. I spent a shameful amount of time in the Swimming pool, which felt like a dream. And the Gym/fitness was actually a decent workout place, too!
I got a Massage and it was heavenly. Seriously, I think I might have drooled a little. All my stress just melted away. I'm not usually a spa person, but this genuinely felt special.
Cleanliness and Safety: (Because, You Know, the Last Few Years…):
Let's face it, in today's world, cleanliness is paramount. The Publishing House takes this very seriously. There were Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocol. Seeing Individually-wrapped food options and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items gave me serious peace of mind. Plus, they have CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property.
They even offer Room sanitization opt-out available. Honestly, it felt like a fortress of cleanliness, which, let's be honest, is exactly what you want right now.
Services and Conveniences: (The Little Extras That Make a Difference):
Okay, I loved the Concierge service. So helpful. They even provided the Invoice provided. Seriously, they were amazing. The Doorman, Elevator, Daily housekeeping, Safety deposit boxes, Laundry service, and Luggage storage were game changers. And I didn't use, but the Dry cleaning and Ironing service would have been a godsend.
I noticed they had a Business facilities like Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, and Meeting stationery. Also, they had a Cash withdrawal and Currency exchange. I was also impressed with the Food delivery service.
They also had a Convenience store which was super handy. Also, I like that I saw a Bicycle parking and Car park [on-site], though, I would have preferred for the Car power charging station to be there.
Things To Do (Besides Just Blissing Out):
Okay, let's be real: I spent 90% of my time indulging in spa treatments and eating. But, if you're the active type:
- Explore the West Loop neighborhood - super trendy with great restaurants and shops.
- Wander around the area (plenty of walking involved).
- And, of course, take advantage of that Fitness center!
For the Kids (Or, I Guess, People Who Like Fun):
While I didn’t see any kids (which, honestly, was a relief, but for those having children) there are Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, and Kids meal.
The "Oh Crap, I Forgot to Mention This" Section:
- The Front desk [24-hour] was a lifesaver, especially after my late-night pizza craving.
- The Smoking area was thoughtfully placed (because, you know, some people still do that – I don't judge).
- The Air conditioning in public area was a godsend, especially because I am always hot!
- The Exterior corridor took me by surprise, but actually added to the charm.
The One Thing That Wasn't 100% Perfect: (Because Honesty, People!)
Okay, I have to be brutally honest. While the Wi-Fi for special events exists and I do enjoy social media, it was a little bit slow in the conference room. I’m not sure why, and it might just have been me, but it was frustrating.
Final Verdict: (Would I Go Back? YES. A Thousand Times YES!)
The Publishing House B&B is pure luxury, with a heart. It’s got the perfect blend of style, comfort, and top-notch service. The spa is phenomenal, the food is divine, and the rooms are truly special. Yes, it's a bit pricey, but honestly? Worth every single penny.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups! We're about to take a trip through The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast in Chicago, a place I affectionately now call "The Library of Lost Socks and Endless Coffee." Prepare for a schedule that’s less “precision-engineered Swiss watch” and more “slightly-burnt toast after a particularly rambunctious night.”
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Book Purge (Or, "Why Did I Book a Room Named After a Character I Barely Remember?")
- 1:00 PM - Arrival & Jaw-Dropping Awkwardness: Okay, so I pull up (in my slightly-too-small-for-Chicago rental car, naturally, which immediately earned me a glare from a street performer. I'm pretty sure he was judging my parallel parking, or lack thereof.) The Publishing House looks amazing from the outside. Like, "I should be wearing a tweed jacket and pretending to be an intellectual" amazing. I stumble out, luggage tumbling after me like a rebellious toddler. Reception? Small, cozy, and staffed by a woman who looks like she’s genuinely about to ask me to solve a riddle before she gives me my key. I swear she blinked twice when I told her my name. (Was it the hair? The shoes? The fact I was sweating despite the chill?)
- 1:30 PM - The Room – "Hardwick’s Haven” – and the Initial Panic: My room, "Hadwick's Haven," is NOT what I expected. I’d pictured something grand, dramatic, bathed in sunlight. Instead, I get… well, it’s cozy. Very cozy. The bed is nestled right up against a wall of books (which, honestly, is kind of amazing). But the "literary theme" is a bit intense. I'm pretty sure I need a PhD in obscure 19th-century novels just to breathe in here without feeling inadequate. I spend a solid five minutes trying to remember who Hardwick even was. (Honestly, it’s probably the author I forgot to read in college.)
- 2:00 PM - The Great Book Purge: Okay, moment of truth. I have major decision paralysis. Too many books, not enough time. And I need to clear out the space. I feel a bizarre urge to actually read a few of the novels just to confirm I have no interest in them so I can leave. I start tentatively pulling books off the shelf, realizing I need a reading of the books before I need to leave. The feeling of being a toddler overwhelms me at this point.
- 3:00 PM - Coffee, Crisis, and a Stray Cat (Who Might Be a Ghost?): The first cup of coffee is a lifesaver. I manage to find the shared kitchen, and it's beautiful. Dark wood, gleaming machines, and a HUGE selection of teas! As I'm brewing, I hear a cat meow. A small, black cat, sitting on the BACK of the couch staring at me. "Hello, are you staying here?". I'm pretty sure it stared right through me. I can't tell if it's a cat, hallucination, or just an extreme coffee effect.
- 4:00 PM - The Neighborhood – A Sensory Overload of Delight: I venture out into the neighborhood, hoping to shake off the book-induced pressure. This place is a hipster haven. Coffee shops with names I can't pronounce, vintage stores overflowing with treasures, and street art that makes me feel like I’m constantly wandering into a gallery. It's exhilarating, and my overloaded senses start to have a bit of a freakout.
- 6:00 PM - The Library Bar – and the Whiskey Soused Meltdown: Dinner at the Library Bar, which is inside the B&B. Genius! I order a whiskey and immediately order another one. The atmosphere here is everything. Dim lighting, crackling fireplace, and a general air of intellectual debauchery. I'm pretty sure someone is reading poetry in the corner. And I'm definitely not the only one who is at least a little bit buzzed. I end up chatting with a woman about the importance of commas in existential literature and then spend the entire night laughing.
- 9:00 PM - The Second Book Purge: Back in the room, the books are mocking me. I'm going to have to face it. I give up.
Day 2: Art, History & the Quest for the Perfect Souvenir (And Regret. Lots of Regret.)
- 8:00 AM - The Breakfast (and the Overwhelming Urge to Smuggle the Coffee Machine): Breakfast is served in a sun-drenched dining room. A dazzling feat of waffles. The coffee is divine. I mentally plot how to sneak back to the kitchen and steal the coffee machine.
- 9:00 AM - Art Institute – “I’ll Just Wander In and Look at a Few Pieces.” (Famous Last Words): The Art Institute is a beast. I figured I’d pop in, see a few big names, and then poof out. Wrong. I am immediately swallowed by paintings, sculptures, and a general feeling of artistic inadequacy. I spend two hours getting lost in the Impressionist wing. I actually start weeping in front of Monet's "Haystacks." It was the light, the colors… pure genius. And me? I’m a mess. An emotional mess.
- 11:30 AM - Millennium Park – Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”) – The Tourist Gauntlet: I decide to brave the crowds at Millennium Park. Cloud Gate (the Bean) is… okay. But it’s surrounded by an army of tourists all trying to take the same selfie. I have my own picture taken with a girl's cat-eye sunglasses behind me. I think I'm starting to crack.
- 12:30 PM - Lunch at a Tourist Trap (and a Moment of Existential Dread): I make the mistake of eating at a touristy restaurant near the park. Overpriced, mediocre food. I look around and suddenly feel a wave of existential dread. Is this… it? Is this what my life has become? Eating boring food, taking selfies with large metal beans? I need to get a grip.
- 2:00 PM - Historical Explorations: More "history." I'm going to try to pick up the pieces! I visit the Art Institute.
- 4:00 PM - The Souvenir Hunt – A Disaster in Progress: I'm on a mission: Find the perfect souvenir. It can't be cheesy, it must be unique, above all, it must prove I'm "cultured." I go from store to store: vintage shops, artsy boutiques, and high-end galleries. I end up with a "chic" Chicago tote bag and a questionable piece of abstract art (that, let's be honest, I do not understand).
- 6:00 PM - The Library Bar – Redemption (and More Whiskey): Back at the Library Bar. It’s my comfort zone after the disaster of the day. I get the same waitress that served me the night before. She remembers me, and I'm pretty sure she gives me a knowing look. I order a whiskey, and a double. It's gonna be a long night.
- 9:00 PM - One Last Look at the Books and a Moment of Contentment, and then Panic: Back in “Hadwick's Haven,” I glance at the books. I almost feel like I've made peace with them. Almost. I flip through a few pages. A sense of quiet peace descends. Then, suddenly, PANIC! I've forgotten to pack. And I leave tomorrow! Goodbye, Chicago!
Day 3: Departure – A Sad Farewell (and a Vow to Return, With a Better Suitcase)
- 8:00 AM - A Final Breakfast (and the Attempt to Actually Ask Someone About the Cat). The waffles again! And as I'm grabbing a second cup of coffee, I see the woman from reception and decide to give the cat thing a try. It's now or never. I ask her about a "black cat" roaming around. She gives me a look. "…Oh, that cat? That's the library cat. He's always here. I guess you're seeing him! He's pretty shy." So… not a ghost. But maybe still a bit spooky.
- 9:00 AM - Packing – The Great Unpack (with a side of Imposter Syndrome): I manage to get everything into the suitcase. I think I'll have to buy an entirely new wardrobe to wear these new clothes.
- 10:00 AM - Check Out – A Fond Farewell (and a Promise to Come Back Sooner Rather Than Later): I hand in the key, say goodbye to the reception woman (who gives me a small smile, like she actually enjoyed my presence). I promise to be back. I leave the publishing house, the books, the cat, and the whiskey behind.
- 10:30 AM - Goodbye Chicago! (Until next time, you beautiful, slightly-overwhelming city).
Okay, that’s it. My trip. A glorious mess of art, literature, questionable decisions, and a healthy dose of existential dread. I'
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Bali Getaway Awaits at Tom Guest House
Okay, Spill: Is The Publishing House B&B REALLY as cool as those Instagram photos make it look? Because, come on, filters are a thing, you know?
Alright, buckle up, buttercup. Let's be honest, *everyone* knows Instagram is a carefully curated lie. But… and this is a big but… The Publishing House? It largely delivers. I mean, the photos don't lie about the exposed brick, the vintage furniture, the cozy nooks that practically *beg* you to curl up with a book and a bottomless mug of coffee (more on *that* later).
But here's the *real* tea: it’s not just *pretty*. It feels... soulful. Like, the walls have stories. And the vibe? Think effortlessly chic, like a well-loved library had a baby with a boutique hotel. Which, given the location, just makes sense! I went there expecting glamour, and, yeah, I got it. But I *also* got a sense of... *home*. Which wasn’t exactly on the brochure, if you catch my drift.
Oh, and one more thing: don’t go expecting perfection. It's got character, which means a little bit of… *character*. (Like, a slightly creaky floor here, a charmingly wonky door there.) But that's what makes it *real*. It’s not a sterile, airbrushed hotel, thank goodness. It's a place with a heartbeat.
Tell me about the rooms. Are they all created equal? (Because I'm picky, and I'm not ashamed to admit it.)
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. The rooms are… *varied*. And honestly? That’s part of the charm. You're not getting some cookie-cutter experience. Some are bigger, some have better views (ask for one with the little balcony if you can – WORTH IT for a quick breath of fresh air!), some have more quirky details.
I will say this: I *really* wanted the library room. Looked it up online, and it gave me ALL the vibes, but it was booked. I ended up in a different room, and it was *fine*. Comfortable, stylish, and the bed? Oh, that bed. I swear I slept eleven hours straight. (Which, as a sleep-deprived human being, is practically a miracle.) But still... I'm secretly plotting a return to snag the library room next time. It’s practically a personal quest at this point!
Word to the wise: Check the website for detailed descriptions of each room, paying close attention to size and any specific features that make your heart sing (or skip a beat in excitement!). Do not, I repeat, DO NOT just assume they are all the same. This is Chicago, after all, which means: expect a little bit of personality and a whole lot of unique style!
Okay, the most important question: the breakfast situation? Is it the stuff of legends? Or just… meh?
OH. MY. GOD. The breakfast. Let’s just say that the legend is, delightfully, REAL. Forget that sad continental breakfast situation you get at those other hotels. We’re talking gourmet, folks. Think flaky croissants, fresh fruit, delicious pastries (the muffins? *chef’s kiss*), and perfectly brewed coffee that tastes like liquid gold.
This is not some rushed, mass-produced affair. They take their time. They care. There were fresh-squeezed juices, and I think I developed an addiction to their homemade granola. And the eggs? Perfectly cooked every. single. day. I seriously contemplated sneaking into the kitchen to steal the chef's secret recipe. (I didn't. But I thought about it.)
And the best part (aside from the taste, obviously!)? It feels like a gathering. Everyone cozies up in the dining room, chatting and enjoying the morning buzz. You’ll meet interesting people. (One morning, I found myself deep in conversation about the best indie bookstores in the city with a world-traveling photographer! It was pretty magical.) It’s not just breakfast; it's an *experience*. So, yeah, I loved it. I might just go back for the breakfast alone!
Where is this magical place located? And how walkable is it, really? (I’m a walker… or a Uber-er, depending on my mood.)
The Publishing House is smack-dab in the West Loop. That means you are *in the thick* of things. Which is either awesome or terrifying, depending on what you're looking for.
For me? AWESOME. It's super walkable: a short distance from fabulous restaurants, bars, and shops. You can stroll to some of the city's best restaurants (Girl & the Goat! RPM Steak! I could write a whole dissertation on Chicago food, honestly). Getting around to other parts of the city is equally easy: public transport is great, and if you prefer to Uber or Lyft, you're set.
One small thing: the immediate street it's on is relatively quiet, which is a nice break from the hustle and bustle. But, you're still in the heart of a vibrant, exciting neighborhood. So, walkable? Absolutely. And if you enjoy a bit of a lively atmosphere, you’re going to LOVE it. Pro tip: bring good walking shoes. You'll want them.
What's the service situation like? Are they welcoming, or is it all a bit… *too* cool?
Alright, listen up, because this is important. The staff? Absolutely lovely. And I mean *genuinely* lovely. Not that fake, forced-smiled, robotic service you sometimes get. These people seem to actually enjoy their jobs, which is refreshing.
They’re present without being intrusive. They are helpful, friendly, and full of useful recommendations (ask them where to eat, seriously - they know their stuff!). I had a tiny issue with my hairdryer (yes, I know, it’s a first-world problem), and they fixed it in a heartbeat, with an apology and a smile. Small things like that make a huge difference.
Listen, sometimes I’m a grump when I travel. You know, you had all the *perfect* plans, and inevitably, nothing ever goes to plan when you travel. But the staff at The Publishing House made me feel welcomed, cared for, and totally relaxed. They definitely contributed to the amazing experience.
Are there any little extras that make The Publishing House extra special? Like, free wine, a secret speakeasy, etc.? (A girl can dream, right?)
Okay, so, free wine, secret speakeasy? Sadly, no. (A girl can *always* dream, though.) But yes, there *are* little extras that make this place shine. Think details, lots of details.
They have free coffee and tea available 24/7. (HUGE win, especially for a caffeine addict like myself.) There are cozy common areas to relax in, and bookshelves filled with interesting books. The decor isLugano's Hidden Gem: Hotel Admiral – Unforgettable Swiss Stay
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