Cherry Circle Room - Chicago
Rooftop bar Cindy's gets all the attention because it overlooks Millennium Park, but Cherry Circle Room is the true star of Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. It's tucked away on the second level of the restored property, which was a men's only club for a number of decades after opening at the turn of the 20th century.
Cherry Circle Room looks and feels like a piece of Chicago history as much of its interior has been left intact. Lots of hardwood accents and red leather booths add a sense of authenticity to the setting. The bar is also part of the original structure, but the long and winding shelves behind the bar have been custom designed for the space and have been made to look as though they've been there all along.
And, speaking of authenticity, several items from the original menu can still be enjoyed such as the cold-smoked beef tartare and crock of French onion soup. The offerings also include several tableside presentations of classic cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and thoughtfully composed and plated house specialties.
Land and Sea Dept., which owns Parson's Chicken & Fish, is behind the cocktail menu; local brewery Marz Community Brewing Co. has collaborated with the restaurant for a limited edition Cherry Circle Rye Ale.