Allow me to clarify my rating of the service first. I would have given it a 5 star service review, but due to the fact that there isn't a star rating for atmosphere and overall experience I just docked one point off of service. On that topic, the service was above average. Every aspect of the dishes were explained by our very friendly waiter. He even went as far as to ask our preference on how the dishes were brought out timing-wise (considering that I ordered the 5 course tasting menu and my friend ordered a la carte). I felt that the tasting menu I ordered progressed very nicely, and although I'd hope for a slightly larger main course, I left satisfied. The best part of the meal for me was the deconstructed buffalo wing w/ Corona. Also, the complimentary amuse bouche of foie gras was a very welcome surprise. That being said, I docked the aforementioned points off of service based on atmosphere and other patrons. It's tricky to have a restaurant in the loop of Chicago. I have to figure most of the other people in the restaurant were tourists who did not anticipate a fine dining experience (either that, or they didn't pack for it). After I saw someone walk in with a U of I crewneck sweatshirt I felt like the food was too nice for the space. And what was up with the table next to me discussing was a martini is!? I don't mean to be pretentious, but I feel Lockwood is holding itself back due to its location. A West Loop type location would probably be highly beneficial to its reputation. The atmosphere was fine, but it wasn't necessarily congruent with the food served, but more so with the rest of the hotel.

there is a wide variety of food, and if you were wanting to try what the chefs are really about there, go for the tasting menus. food was well prepared most of the time, and service is spotty- really depends on who you get. i switched servers halfway through the meal and went from being a fly on the wall, to the only one in the restaurant, figuratively speaking. the place is in the lobby so you dont get an exclusive-restaurant feel... but the palmer house is beautiful, so it isn't particularly a big loss.