Beloved Signature Room at 95th Floor in Chicago’s Hancock Building Closes Permanently
CHICAGO (WLS) — The Signature Room at the 95th, a stunning restaurant overlooking the city of Chicago, has closed its doors permanently. The closure was announced in a sign posted on the elevator outside the iconic establishment, located in the former John Hancock building at 875 N. Michigan Ave. The closure took effect on Thursday, September 28, 2023.
The Signature Room at the 95th was known for its panoramic view of Lake Michigan and its location atop one of Chicago’s most famous skyscrapers. The restaurant had become a staple of the Magnificent Mile, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
In a statement, the owners of the restaurant cited the hardships faced during the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for its closure. “For over 30 years, we have had the privilege and honor of serving Chicagoans and visitors from all over the world,” the sign read. “From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank you for your support over the years.”
The closure of the Signature Room adds to the list of establishments shutting down along the Magnificent Mile. Retailers like GAP, Macy’s, and T-Mobile have also closed their doors due to the pandemic. Currently, the vacancy rate on Michigan Avenue sits at around 30%, further highlighting the challenges faced by businesses in the popular shopping district.
The closure of the restaurant has left some customers in difficult situations. Andrea Rossi and Eric Jara, a couple set to have their wedding reception at the Signature Room this coming Sunday, discovered the closure via a Facebook post. Despite paying thousands of dollars in full for their event, the couple claimed they had received no communication from the restaurant. Even as recent as Wednesday night, they received an email from their wedding coordinator confirming all the details for the reception.
“I think there’s some shock here when you look at such an institution that so many people knew, locally and out-of-towners, abruptly shutting its doors,” said Danny Ecker with Crain’s Chicago Business.
The lease for the Signature Room at the 95th had recently been extended through 2031. The building owners will now have to find a new tenant for the space.
360 CHICAGO, another popular observation deck located one floor below the Signature Room, released a statement expressing sadness over the closure. They clarified that the two establishments are separate entities, with 360 CHICAGO remaining open for business.
While the closure of the Signature Room at the 95th is undoubtedly a blow to Chicago’s dining scene, there is hope that the sought-after space will soon find a new tenant to continue offering incredible views of the city skyline.