Picture this: You wake up in the heart of downtown Chicago, step outside The Chicago Hotel Collection, and within moments, you’re crossing Michigan Avenue to immerse yourself in one of the city’s most iconic coffee experiences—the world’s largest Starbucks. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery at 646 N. Michigan Avenue isn’t just a place to grab a latte; it’s a multi-level, interactive wonderland dedicated to the art and science of coffee. And when you stay with us, it’s literally right across the street—so close you can practically breathe in the aroma of freshly roasted beans from our lobby.
Welcome to your new favorite caffeinated playground, where craftsmanship, innovation, and a dash of Chicago flair come together to create an unforgettable experience. Read on to discover what makes this five-story coffee marvel so special and why being its neighbor at The Chicago Hotel Collection is your ticket to a perfect, coffee-filled adventure.
A Coffee Empire in the Heart of Chicago
When Starbucks decided to build its largest location in the world, it chose the vibrant Magnificent Mile for a reason: the area’s iconic architecture, high-energy foot traffic, and rich culinary scene offer the perfect stage for a coffee spectacular. Housed in the former Crate & Barrel flagship building, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery opened its doors in November 2019, boasting 35,000 square feet of coffee innovation spread across five floors.
From the outside, the building’s curved glass façade and sleek lines give a nod to its historic past while announcing something entirely new and exciting inside. Step through the doors, and you’ll find yourself in a world dedicated to beans, baristas, and bold flavors—all meticulously designed to capture the essence of Starbucks’ Reserve line.
Five Floors of Coffee Bliss
1. Main Bar & Roasting Area (First Floor)
As you enter, you’re greeted by the hypnotic sight of floor-to-ceiling copper coffee casks and a labyrinth of clear tubes overhead, transporting freshly roasted beans throughout the building. It’s a glimpse behind the curtain of Starbucks’ roasting operations: green beans arrive, get roasted, and then whisked away to different bars and brewing stations. This mechanical ballet offers a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and the unmistakable aroma of coffee at its freshest.
2. Princi Bakery & Café (Second Floor)
Head upstairs to indulge in an authentic Italian bakery experience, courtesy of Princi. From artisanal pizzas to buttery cornetti, every pastry and bite is crafted to pair seamlessly with your favorite brew. You’ll see dough being kneaded and pastries baking in real time—an experience that merges culinary artistry with the warm spirit of Italian hospitality.
3. Experiential Coffee Bar (Third Floor)
If you’ve ever wanted to witness true coffee alchemy, the Experiential Coffee Bar is your playground. Baristas here showcase specialty brewing methods like the Chemex, siphon, and pour-over, transforming single-origin beans into delicate, complex flavors you can savor in every sip. This is where coffee goes from everyday beverage to art form, and the knowledgeable staff is more than happy to guide you through each step of the journey.
4. Arriviamo Bar (Fourth Floor)
Craft cocktails meet coffee experimentation at the Arriviamo Bar. Here, mixologists blend fresh herbs, infusions, and top-shelf spirits with Starbucks’ signature espresso to create unique, buzzworthy concoctions. Think espresso martinis reimagined with unexpected flavor twists—perfect for a late-afternoon pick-me-up or a nightcap that tips its hat to Chicago’s thriving bar culture.
5. Rooftop Terrace & Lounge (Fifth Floor)
Finally, ascend to the top floor, where a breezy outdoor terrace and cozy indoor lounge offer a panoramic look at Michigan Avenue’s bustling energy. On sunny days, settle into a seat outside and watch the city hum below, coffee (or cocktail) in hand. It’s a scene straight out of a postcard—except you’re in it, living the Chicago dream.
Across the Street at The Chicago Hotel Collection
The best part? When you’re ready to wind down from your caffeine adventure, your comfortable suite at The Chicago Hotel Collection is just steps away—literally across the street. Here’s how our proximity to the Roastery takes your Starbucks experience to the next level:
Instant Access
Tired of early-morning coffee runs that require a train, bus, or long trek through busy streets? Forget it. At The Chicago Hotel Collection, your front door is a stone’s throw from the Roastery’s entrance. Need a quick cappuccino before your next meeting, or a midday macchiato to recharge? You could be sipping it in minutes.
Morning, Noon & Night
Because the Roastery is so close, you can visit multiple times a day and see how the vibe changes. Grab a croissant and latte before exploring the city, swing by in the afternoon to sample a new single-origin brew, and wrap up the night with a coffee-inspired cocktail. There’s no rush—you can come and go as you please.
A Room to Relax
After your coffee escapade, return to your comfortable room or suite at The Chicago Hotel Collection. Unwind, recharge, and relive the day’s highlights—maybe you’ll even brew a cup of your own Starbucks Reserve beans (available to purchase at the Roastery) right in your room. It’s the perfect end to a coffee lover’s day.
Chicago at Your Fingertips
Staying across from the Roastery places you in the heart of the Magnificent Mile’s action. Beyond Starbucks, you’re within walking distance of iconic shopping destinations, local eateries, and many of the city’s must-see sights. However, with such a world-class coffee haven at your doorstep, it might be hard to leave this corner of Chicago.
An Ever-Evolving Coffee Adventure
One of the most alluring aspects of the Starbucks Reserve Roastery is how it continually evolves. Seasonal coffees rotate in and out, new cocktails are introduced, and fresh baked goods appear at Princi. Whether this is your first visit or your fifteenth, you’ll likely stumble upon something entirely new each time you walk in. This dynamic atmosphere makes the Roastery feel less like a one-time stop and more like a living, breathing part of Chicago’s culinary scene—one you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Make It a Stay Worth Savoring—and Book Direct to Save!
The synergy between The Chicago Hotel Collection and the Starbucks Reserve Roastery is undeniable: both offer a blend of comfort, style, and hands-on discovery. When you picture your next trip to the Windy City, imagine a stay that effortlessly meshes relaxation with the flavors, aromas, and excitement of one of the city’s top attractions.
Simple, Thoughtful Accommodations: Checking in with us means you can spend more time exploring and less time commuting.
Expert Insights: Our staff loves Chicago just as much as you do. If you have questions about the Roastery, want more details on upcoming coffee classes, or need tips on the best times to visit, we’re here to help.
A Front-Row Seat: Whether it’s morning or evening, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery is right there, inviting you to indulge in its coffee marvels.
Book directly with The Chicago Hotel Collection and save on your stay. It’s the best way to secure exclusive rates, maximize your experience, and ensure that every moment of your Chicago trip revolves around comfort, exploration, and incredible coffee—just steps away. We look forward to being your home base for all things coffee in the Windy City!
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