The throwback-style dining room at the Chicago
Athletic Association ’ s Cherry Circle Room .
Cherry CirCle room aNd CiNdy ’ s ,
Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
One of the Windy City ’ s hottest new hotels has several dining options , including the more formal , old-school Cherry Circle Room with a food and drink program inspired by the club ’ s menus dating back to the 1890s .
“ The concept focus is kind of old-school Wisconsin supper club , with tableside preparation for cocktails and desserts ,” says Lana Trevisan , co-director of restaurants and bars for Commune Hotels and Resorts , San Francisco .
Executive Chef Pete Coenen has created specialties that include a roasted branzino with ocean broth , golden raisin and cauliflower , or a natural aged lacquered duck with orzo rice , confit leg and roasted plum sauce .
Co-director Frank Giacomini says Cindy ’ s rooftop bar at the same hotel also bucks another trend , that of small plates . “ We sort of turned that idea upside down ,” he says . “ Instead of anything small , all the plates there are built for groups .”
Cindy ’ s menu includes things like a huge pot of stew , a whole roasted chicken and fondue in the winter . Even the drinks can come large – in fountains for the table .
“ It ’ s been a huge success ,” Trevisan says .
www . hotelsmag . com November 2015 HOTELS 39