CHICAGO, Ill.—The recently rebranded The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Chicago, has announced new dining concept Circa restaurant and lounge officially opening on May 16. The restaurant, adjacent to the newly renovated lobby, is located on the fifth floor of the hotel, which is housed within the McGraw-Hill building.
Circa is an upscale restaurant and lounge. Inspired by the symmetry of book bindings that McGraw-Hill once printed in the building, Circa offers a spacious layout for large groups, couples, or the individual traveler.
In line with the Art Deco décor, Circa celebrates the rich cocktail culture of the 1930s, featuring a finely curated house cocktail list, and hand-picked wines. Circa’s approachable menu features a fun and innovative approach to American cuisine with an eclectic twist.
For inspiration, Executive Chef Oscar Hernandez looks back to the type of cooking he grew up eating. “I want to provide our guests with the same feeling that I have when eating my mother’s cooking,” says Hernandez.
The menu is composed of snacks, small plates, salads, sandwiches, and large plates encouraging sharing among guests and friends.