Doctor Murphy is in Chicago!

Overall Rating *** ( different restaurant stations make it hard to rate ).

The old Cook County Hospital, located at 1835 West Harrison was saved from the wrecking ball. For many years, there was talk that due to its history, the building would be saved and converted into something “special”. Mission accomplished! The building now is home to the combined Hyatt Place and Hyatt House Hotel. offering the medical centers in the area a great place for visitors to stay while in town. The center is also very close to the United Center so when we start seeing events there, I am sure that this new hotel will be a Godsend.

The restaurant contained within this hotel is Dr. Murphy’s Food Hall ( named after Dr. John B. Murphy, who studied and taught at the old Cook County Hospital) and contains 8 different food stations, each owned and operated by a minority owner. The food hall is spacious and has some outside seating for those who feel more comfortable during Covid 19. FYI- the interior dining hall was set up so that social distancing was not a problem, but I will say that our visit was with the understanding that they would keep the numbers down to a minimum. The entry to the food hall is at 1811 and we were able to park on the street ( metered) so you can just pop-in and dine without being a hotel guest.

There is a bar ( Doc’s) where we enjoyed some special “opening mixtures) and of course a coffee shoppe ( Passion Coffee). I do not believe they consider these as “restaurants”, but needed stations.

The mixture of dining stations is pretty complete. The only thing that might have been added would be a sandwich shop/deli type, but we did have a fabulous sandwich of BBQ from Lexington Betty’s. She has a location in Oak Park ( stand alone) that we plan to visit once we feel comfortable with sitting IN a restaurant. I have a feeling, based on the brisket I ate that her ribs will be sensational! Tamales and hush-puupies from Lil Delta were tasty. The pizza from Ottobagetto had a great dough and they were very generous with the toppings.

If you like Indian food ( and can handle spicy”) Mahamni does a great Tandoori chicken. Mexican food? Jarabe had great tacos and if you enjoy Napanese, Kathmandu Momo will please you. Viet Nom Nom was not ready for us last night, so we will have to make a second trip to Dr. Murphy’s to taste the bowls they serve along with their other flavors.

Rounding out the offerings- Brekke Bake Shop, Crockett Cookies and Classic Cobbler and pies.

The bake shop offer breakfast sandwiches and other goodies. The cobbler shop will satisfy every sweet tooth.

To learn more, visit www.drmurphysfoodhall.com

If you are working in the west loop area and need to get out and away, it is easy to get here and to see what the old historical landmark looks like today. I am glad the Chicago is a city that cares about our landmark’s and history, thus allowing structures such as this hospital to take on a new life, yet remind us of our history. Many a Chicago area doctor or nurse began their careers in this building. Now they can enjoy a meal and recall those days with a smile.