Holidays at the Park Hyatt Chicago

Who is ready for kids jingle belling and everyone telling you be of good cheer? How about parties for hosting, marshmallows for toasting and caroling in the snow? Come on, Chicago, the most wonderful time of the year is upon us! Let’s get in the spirit!

If you need a little push towards holiday merriment, we recommend heading over to the Park Hyatt Chicago {800 North Michigan Avenue Chicago; 312.335.1234}. Their team is getting ready for special dinners, holiday offerings and events of all sizes … not to mention big changes coming in 2022! There is so much festivity and excitement happening throughout their halls and Lindsay Forman, Director of Sales, Marketing & Events, is giving us the rundown on what to expect from a dinner or party at the Park Hyatt this holiday season. Be of good cheer, and read on for more…

DI4W: How did your career lead you to join the Park Hyatt team?

Forman: After spending 10 years working at several luxury resorts in Hawaii, it was time to experience the best big city in the US… Chicago! From my first drive down Michigan Avenue, I was amazed at the presence of the Park Hyatt. With a focus on caring for guests so they can be at their best, I knew the brand and luxury hospitality were synonymous.

What makes the Park Hyatt and NoMI Kitchen stand out in the world of Chicago hospitality?

Park Hyatt Chicago and NoMI represent the best of what Michigan Avenue has to offer. Completed in 2000, our hotel was built on the Magnificent Mile, just steps from the best of shopping, dining and attractions. The vision for the hotel, which includes an impressive array of the Pritzker family’s personal art collection and a strong focus on guest experience, has served as a model for many luxury properties across the globe. NoMI Kitchen has become a standalone restaurant in the Gold Coast culinary scene and has truly made a name for itself in the world of fine dining with a focus on modern French cuisine as well as arguably the best sushi in Chicago. The extensive global wine list is also a huge draw for wine enthusiasts.

What are some services you all offer that people might not know about?

We are so excited to introduce the Masters of Food & Wine Dinner Experience, a series of wine pairing events with exclusive vineyard partners. Our next Masters of Food & Wine event will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, and features a curated five-course menu from Executive Chef Terence Zubieta and the wines of Paul Hobbs. Seats are limited as this is an exclusive event, and tickets can still be booked here!

You also have amazing events teams! What is it like to work with people on larger scale events?

We have a highly experienced events team focused on creating memories at Park Hyatt Chicago. While we have the ability to host beautiful weddings and social events in our private Grand Salon Ballroom, we also pride ourselves on being able to create an intimate atmosphere where every guest is remembered by name.

How can people customize their events within the hotel?

Luxury is personal at the Park Hyatt Chicago. From elaborate florals and décor to full buyouts and a complete redesign of our space, we work with our clients to bring their vision to life. Over the years, I’ve witnessed a number of unique ways that people have customized their events in our hotel, including a custom wedding cake designed and decorated by the bride and groom’s children, a transformation of our outdoor NoMI Garden into a beautifully adorned high tea, and of course, our resident hotel pug adorned in company logos for an added touch of marketing.

How does the culinary program enhance any event?

Our culinary program is thoughtfully sourced and carefully served. That NoMI experience is translated to our events, providing high-touch, restaurant-style service and dishesmade with the freshest of ingredients.

Do you also offer smaller scale private dining experiences?

We specialize in intimate, private dining experiences showcasing a variety of locations - from our main dining room with floor to ceiling windows overlooking downtown Chicago, to the Art Gallery featuring works of Matisse and Dale Chihuly, to our beautiful Wine Cellar.

What are some of the highlight events or offerings the hotel has planned for Thanksgiving?

NoMI Kitchen will have a Prix Fixe 5-Course Thanksgiving Dinner ($150.00 for Adults), as well as a Thanksgiving- To-Go option for people who want a NoMI experience in the comfort of their own home ($300.00, serves 6-8 people). We want to make the holidays easy!

What is the best part of Chicago during the holidays?

The city’s festive energy is contagious and kicks off with the Festival of Lights. Michigan Avenue is full of lights and decorations, and with a perfect view from NoMI Kitchen – there’s no better place to be!

You also have exciting changes coming in the new year throughout the hotel! Can you give us a sneak preview of what's to come?

In early 2022, Park Hyatt Chicago will embark on a $60 million renovation to reimagine the hotel’s guest rooms and suites. As the first Park Hyatt hotel to open over 40 years ago, Park Hyatt Chicago has grown to epitomize a sense of timeless luxury, offering guests an intimate hotel setting with world-renowned service, design, artwork and culinary experiences. The renovation will embrace the Park Hyatt ethos of sophistication with a luxurious residential feel.

Interview by Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor