The Grand Dining Room, decorated in the style of Louis XVI is of itself a feature well worthy of detailed description; the German Room—Pomp-Grill Room—than which no hotel in the New World has a more interesting dining room. Upon the walls of the Lobby and in the reception rooms are hung originals from the brushes of such masters as Detaille, Achilles Fould, Grolleron and Chelminski.
Your inspection will not be complete until you have made a trip through the vast kitchens, one of the most interesting features of the great hotel. Here Cleanliness is King! Stainless floors, alabaster walls, abundant air, and everywhere healthfulness and good cheer. Great pantries, sweet storerooms, ample closets lined high with glittering cut glass, with shining silver, with gleaming linen ready for your next call for luncheon or dinner. On every face you see honest pride in the work; immaculate in garb and person, chefs, cooks, pantry-men and lesser serving men prepare with infinite care for your entertainment. Utensils shining, radiant copper, resplendent brass, enamel aluminum and chinaware attest ardent pride in the great institution these men have served so long and so well.
It is for you they toil, this unseen army. Your comfort, your pleasure, your entertainment is the goal of hospitality. It is for this the edifice was raised, for this the art centers of the world were searched, and for this the master craftsmen of seven continents wrought and toiled. For you, whether you come today, or tomorrow or next month or next year. All is ready, waiting, waiting—for you.
To see the world, see Chicago first. To see Chicago best—you are welcomed to the Congress Hotel.
Prepared by
Irving S. Paull
W.S. Goodnow