photo: Carlo Corbellini

The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place is accustomed to entertaining a corporate crowd, attached as it is to one of the nation's largest convention centers. But since its 2006 multimillion-dollar renovation spawned the sophisticated Shor, the hotel would do well to start thinking of itself as more than just a haven for weary business travelers.

Shor offers a contemporary American menu within a warm beige, orange and maple setting filled with two-top booths. The crispy duck breast with stewed beans stands out among the starters, providing a nice lead-in to entrees like roasted halibut with shallot vinaigrette, smoked chicken and cavatelli pasta, steak, pork chops and more. A la carte sides like country-style mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus allow diners to customize their meals. Dinner appetizers range from $8 to $14, and entrees $20 to $39. Those looking for a change of setting following the meal can head over to M/X, the tapas bar and sports lounge right next door.

For early birds, Shor offers an ever-changing selection of fresh fruit, cereals and hot goodies on its state of the art, custom-built, temperature-sensitive continental breakfast buffet.

Centerstage Reviewer: Nola Akiwowo