Hotel Blake Chicago

A plaque outside the circa 1896 Morton and Duplicator Building explains that this site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it suggests guests are in for a memorable stay. The lobby exudes quiet sophistication. It’s dominated by rich, dark wood paneling and columns plus upscale furniture like butterscotch leather couches and red upholstered chairs in various seating arrangements. Beige and brown marble tile floors, large red planters, and star-shaped chandeliers add character and class. A short hallway leads to the open and airy Meli Café that’s decorated in lighter wood tables and floors, and tan leather couches and seats. A stone wall with a small opening allows diners a peek into the open kitchen. The same natural stone frames the rectangular bar adjacent to the dining area. The entire area is warmly lit by large, modern chandeliers and numerous windows with street views. A cluster of chairs and tables outside offers alfresco dining.

The Blake is located in Printer’s Row, one of Chicago’s oldest districts just one block south of the loop. Today it’s mostly a quaint and quiet residential neighborhood with lots of character. It’s well located near the city’s business district and a 10-minute walk from Grant Park. The Art Institute of Chicago is a 12-minute walk away. With Columbia College only a six-minute walk from the hotel, the neighborhood sees many students. The hotel is surrounded by several CTA stations that are a two-three-minute walk away. Once there, connections to Millennium Park and McCormick Place take about 20 minutes, with Midway Airport 30 minutes away and O’Hare International about 50 minutes. The Amtrak Station is a 15-minute walk or 13 minutes on the CTA.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable with contemporary decor befitting an upscale boutique hotel. The color scheme is predominantly dark brown and beige with red accents on the white bedding. Espresso-colored wood nightstands, dressers, headboards, and work desks, paired with black leather office chairs, add sophistication. Rooms are offered in several options, and some slight variations in configurations exist. Some bathrooms have dark granite vanities, while others are lighter. All of them have double sinks, magnifying mirrors, and premium Bath & Body Works toiletries. They also have tan tile on the floors and walk-in showers with glass doors and rainfall showerheads. Corner King Rooms have shower/tub combos with shower curtains and bathroom windows. The One-Bedroom Parlor Suite has a smaller bedroom but separate living room with a couch, chairs, and a glass table with six chairs. All rooms have single-cup coffeemakers, speakerphones with voice mail, flat-screen TVs, and electronic safes. Robes are provided upon request. Free Wi-Fi is provided, and premium Wi-Fi is available for a fee. 

The adjoining Meli Café receives rave reviews from guests for its large menu that includes vegan and gluten-free options. It’s open for breakfast through the evening, and provides room service. Free coffee and water are provided in the lobby where there is a 24-hour business center with two computer stations, a printer, and a table with four chairs for impromptu meetings. The 24-hour fitness center is spacious and well equipped with cardio and weight machines. Its windows provide a nice street view while working out. Drivers have valet and assisted self-parking options, although valet is quite expensive, and bellmen are waiting to help with luggage. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property, and 4,000 square feet of meeting space is offered in four rooms. Valet dry-cleaning services are offered; in-room spa treatments are available; and pets are welcome for a fee.