Feng Shui in Chicagoland

As we entered the city, driving in on Lakeshore Drive, the sun was just beginning to set as the last few rays of the day were beating down upon the lake. We quickly checked into our hotel, the W, and caught a cab to Spago. Afterwards, off we went uptown to Pop's for Champagne for fine cigars and the soothing sounds of big city jazz.

Quick Tips:

Check out for pre-planning ideas on where to stay, eat and play. I always visit this site before I travel anywhere to check out the newest, latest restaurants and cool, chic bars in town.

Best Way To Get Around:

You can easily get around in Chicago by car, but we choose to take a taxi. It's quicker, they know their way around the city better, and plus then you can enjoy a cocktail or two.

As soon as we pulled up to the front of the W, two guys with headsets who could have doubled as models for Armani grabbed our bags and escorted us to the front door of the hotel. As we entered, I felt as though I was walking into a private party. There were people everywhere drinking, talking and a DJ spinning house music. We somehow found the check-in desk and they graciously directed us to the lifts (elevators). As we exited the lift onto our floor, we quickly noticed the feng shui like atmosphere. Along the hallway was a small rock garden that bordered the wall as far as one could see. I knew we were in for a treat.

When we entered our "Wonderful" room, the feng shui theme continued through the bedroom with oversized pillows, a W snack pack and into the bathroom and shower. The "Wonderful" rooms are the lower tier of the W rooms. I can only imagine what the other rooms have to offer. At the top of the W was one of Whiskey bars. The Whiskey Bar and Clubs are owned by Rande Gerber, Cindy Crawford's husband. The line was too long to try and check it out, maybe next time.

We decided to try Spago, since I've heard of Wolfgang Puck's reputation for creating culinary masterpieces and experiences. He ususally caters the parties for the Oscars.

We started off with a bottle of Merlot, which the waiter was kind enough to recommend without any pretension. I started with an appetizer of scallops. They were the largest scallops I've ever seen, three of them in all. The way the chef prepared and presented them was truly art. I savored each and every bite as I slowly made my way through this dining experience. For my main course, I chose a selection of beef: the sirloin strip. It was a delight. It was served with fresh, vibrant, colorful vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes.

All in all, I would give the dining experience 4 stars out of 5.

Orange is a unique breakfast experience. If you don't get there early, expect to wait at least 30 minutes or more, but it's worth it. As soon as we were seated the waitress gave us a juice menu and asked us what mixture of juices we wished to discover. They have about every fruit or vegetable imaginable and they will mix two, three or four together for your drinking pleasure. After we ordered, another person came by and asked if we cared for some frushi (which you have to pay for). It was various pieces of fruit wrapped in rice in the traditional sushi style. It was fun and different, but I would probably pass next time. Although, you must try at least once so you can say, "Hey, I had frushi in Chicago!"

For breakfast I had the french toast shish kabob, which was squares of french toast and fruit skewered and cooked. I highly recommend it. My wife had the jelly doughnut pancakes, which wasn't as rich as the name leads you to believe. She also thoroughly enjoyed her choice. Other selections included: green eggs and ham and various creative renditions of popular breakfast items.

I heard about Pop's from my brother-in-law, who is very hip, cool and gay. As soon as we walked in they advised us of the $10 cover charge and asked if we wanted to wait for a table (this is about 9pm!) or sit at the bar. We said both. And honestly, the bar is the place to be. It is a large semi-circle, wooden bar with comfortable stools. Directly behind the bar, is a 4 ft high stage area where the live band plays.

That particular night, we were treated to the sultry sounds of live jazz from a local trio of artsie musicians. I indulged in two rum-tipped cigars and a fine Belgian beer while kicking back to the cool tunes. Our tab for the two of us came to about $50, but it was well worth it and I can't wait to go back! Oh, and the reason it's called Pop's for Champagne is because they serve more than 200 types of champagne. Maybe next time Pop.