Saturday, December 23, 2023
On March 10, 1989, the grand opening of Four Seasons Hotel Chicago was graced by an unusual guest list – 20 animals, comprising two hedgehogs, two guinea pigs, two rabbits, two iguanas, and two great-horned owls. This event, benefiting the Lincoln Park Zoological Society, dazzled 1,000 attendees with an extravagant affair featuring seven buffets, eight grand pianos, nine bands, and two orchestras.
Over the past 35 years, the Hotel’s team, led by Catering Director Jamie Breslin, has warmly accommodated millions of guests, including renowned celebrities and global dignitaries. Their expertise has overseen over 1,000 elegant weddings and hosted the grandest events within the Hotel’s expansive 23,591 square foot event space, establishing the Hotel’s reputation as a premier establishment in the city.
Stephen Wancha, the fourth General Manager, attributes their success to the remarkable staff, many of whom have been part of the Hotel since its inception. He acknowledges the Hotel’s role as a training ground and a success story for the company’s leaders, emphasizing their ability to retain top talent, evident in the numerous team members celebrating a decade, two decades, or even three decades of service.
In 2021, the Hotel underwent its most extensive renovation led by the esteemed design firm Rottet Studio, completing the redesign in the summer of 2023, culminating with the Pool and Spa enhancements. This evolution maintained the Hotel’s grandeur while infusing a contemporary vibe, preserving the opulence of its 160 rooms and 185 suites, the most luxurious in the city.
Throughout 2024, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago will mark its significant milestone with festivities involving guests and staff, collaborating with esteemed city institutions like Garrett Popcorn, celebrating 75 years, Howard Brown Health marking 50 years, and the Chicago International Film Festival commemorating 60 years.
At the core of the celebrations stands Adorn Bar & Restaurant, under the leadership of Executive Chef Richie Farina and General Manager Colin Hofer, awarded the 2022 Michelin Guide Sommelier of the Year. Adorn promises innovative dining experiences, blending quality with unconventional approaches, guiding guests through a luxurious journey of products and service.
Notable anniversary events in 2024 include:
Chicago, known for pioneering several iconic firsts like the skyscraper and the brownie, thrives as a hub of culture, art, blues, house music, and renowned food and sports scenes. Drawing inspiration from the city’s innovation, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago continues to set industry standards, offering exclusive experiences like yacht and speakeasy activations unique to the location.
“It’s an honor to grow alongside this vibrant city,” expresses Wancha. “This milestone year fills us with profound gratitude for the traditions and memories forged over three decades, while embracing a new era of bold creativity and unparalleled service with heartfelt dedication.”
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
