Chicago's Virgin Hotel to Open in Winter and Include 5 Dining Options

A rooftop bar is one of the amenities at Chicago's new Virgin Hotels, the chain's first U.S. hotel that's scheduled for a winter opening.

While the rooftop bar and its Izakaya Japanese small plates won't be ready for customers until temperatures rise in the spring, Virgin management promises they'll have plenty to satisfy hungers and quench thirsts when the hotel opens at the site of historic Dearborn Bank Building at 203 N. Wabash Ave., just north of the Loop.

The exact opening date isn't clear, as the hotel could open sometime between December and mid-January, according to Crain's and Hotel Chatter, respectively. Virgin didn't respond to a request for more information.

The hotel staff will serve cocktails and afternoon tea from Chicago's Rare Tea Cellars with finger sandwiches at the Commons Club lounge and restaurant. Virgin described the menu as "made of up small plates with global influences and a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable food practices." Local beers and wine will also be on tap.

Meanwhile, those hankering for diner fair can pop into 80-seat Miss Ricky's until 4 a.m. Scarf down burgers, porridge, chicken pot pies, chicken and waffles, boozy milkshakes, and doughnuts—including "The Tupelo King," a doughnut stuffed with peanut marshmallow fluff, roasted bananas and honey-glazed bacon. An outdoor area will feature 20 to 30 additional seats.

The hotel will also feature the Italian-inspired 203, an espresso bar that morphs into a wine bar at night. Pastries and fresh-pressed juiced will be available for commuters in the morning, giving way to cheese and charcuterie in the evening hours. The 203 staff will also pour Chicago's Bow Truss coffee.

In addition to the four restaurants, room service will also be available without delivery fees. As previously reported, Virgin lured former David Burke's Primehouse executive chef Rick Gresh, who has created separate menus for each of the hotel's restaurants. They're still looking to hire a beverage director, Crain's reports.