By
Neilia Sherman
 |
The
hotel's lobby.
Photo courtesy Doral Eaglewood Resort
& Spa |
The
newly refurbished Doral Eaglewood Resort & Spa located just
35
minutes from downtown Chicago, is a good example of the motto
“Don’t judge a book by its cover." From the outside,
the sprawling white building, which leads to two towers, looks
as if it could be almost anything; but the inside conveys the
feeling of a luxurious country retreat. Upon entering, I was immediately
struck by the stunning three-and-a-half-story glass atrium lobby
with its unique use of style and color. Doral Eagelwood Resort
is set on 106 acres of woodland, giving it an out-of–the-city
feel, although it is actually located off a residential street
in Itasca, Illinois.
Frank
Lloyd Wright’s early 1900s Prairie Style of architecture
and his underlying belief that buildings should express unity,
purpose and a sense of respect for the surrounding environment
have had an obvious influence on the décor and design of
the resort. The inviting foyer has been lovingly decorated with
Tiffany lamps, rectangular hanging fixtures in shades of green,
gold and amber and crimson, warmly patterned geometric carpeting
and a richly detailed tapestry that hangs over a white stone fireplace.
I
stayed in a beautiful suite where I immediately felt relaxed and
cozy. Like the rest of the resort, the furniture in my room was
rich mahogany and cherry wood with plush chairs and a sofa that
I could sink into and read or watch television. The King-sized
bed was topped with lots of comfortable pillows and guaranteed
a good nights sleep. My only complaint was that it was quite a
hike to get to the room from the main building. I was in the further
of the two towers, and I would suggest that those who aren’t
up to a fairly long walk to and from their room to request one
that it is closer to the main lobby.
When
I felt too lazy to walk to the dining room I had room service
for breakfast and was very content with my delicious meal of a
mushroom and sausage omelet that arrived in a picnic basket --
with cleverly stacked dishes.
Executive
Chef Greg Angeles is making his mark by coming up with new recipes
that combine various influences, including his own Hawaiian background.
Burnham’s, the main dining room, has a Harvest Table and
show kitchen in the center of the restaurant, where a nice spread
of food including homemade soup, unique salads and tasty entrees,
is served. The dessert table is a feast for the eyes as well as
the taste buds. The day I left I managed to gulp down some Sunday
brunch before rushing off to make my flight home. My favorites
were the smoked salmon and the Belgian waffles but I must say
that everything was delicious. (CONTINUE...)
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