There’s nothing like summertime in the city, when Chicago is overflowing with outdoor dining options. Looking for a secluded garden covered in romantic string lights? Or a bustling patio where you can sip frozen cocktails and dig into fried chicken? Whatever vibe you’re looking for, there’s a Chicago restaurant patio for you to enjoy the city’s award-winning culinary scene.
If you’re looking for outdoor dining with a view, check out Chicago’s rooftop bars and restaurants, restaurants on the Chicago Riverwalk, and beachfront dining options on Lake Michigan.
Parsons Chicken & Fish
In Logan Square, Parson’s Chicken & Fish boasts a spacious outdoor patio outfitted with cheery picnic tables, red-and-white-striped umbrellas, string lights, and ping-pong tables. Head to the outdoor bar to try their signature negroni slushy, which pairs perfectly with their menu of fried chicken and fish.
The Dawson
In trendy West Town, locals flock to this rustic outdoor patio with its own bar, oversized fireplace, and French doors that lead into The Dawson‘s beautiful interior. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood while enjoying globally-inspired American cuisine.
BEACHFRONT DINING
Looking for somewhere with waterfront views? Check out these Chicago restaurants located on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan.
Beatnik on the River
Beatnik on the River is a Bohemian paradise tucked away on a quiet stretch of the Chicago River. The waterfront restaurant features lush plants, creative cocktails, and colorful daybeds perfect for lounging in the sun. The globally inspired menu includes bites like falafel with black tahini yogurt, Lebanese roast lamb, and scallops with Jamón Ibérico.
Bronzeville Winery
This chic spot in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood features curated art on the walls, live music and DJ residencies, and a rotating wine list featuring women, minority, and Black winemakers The menu at Bronzeville Winery is perfect for sharing, with smaller bites and larger plates featuring elevated and innovative cuisine. The laidback patio features both lounge space and an outdoor dining area.
RIVERWALK RESTAURANTS
Enjoy riverfront views from these scenic restaurants and bars along the bustling Chicago Riverwalk.
The Duck Inn
This neighborhood gastro-tavern in Bridgeport is housed in a pre-Prohibition era tavern with a retro aesthetic inside and a cozy patio outside. In the summer, you’ll find The Duck Inn patio packed with locals for backyard pizza nights and Sunday brunches. Don’t miss their signature dishes, like the whole rotisserie duck or the Duck Inn Dog, a tribute to a classic Chicago-style hot dog.
Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company
Located on a quiet stretch of waterfront, Robert’s Pizza is a hidden gem serving artisan pizzas on their picture-perfect patio. Explore the menu of thin-crust pies and small plates, plus a full wine list and cocktail menu. It’s also the perfect place to watch the Navy Pier summer fireworks on Wednesdays and Saturdays during the summer.
Harry Caray’s Tavern
Located near the main entrance to iconic Navy Pier, outdoor waterfront patio at Harry Caray’s Tavern is the perfect place to enjoy the incredible views of Lake Michigan. Harry Caray’s Tavern combines outstanding smoked barbecue and great selection of local craft beer, so order some of both and dig in.
Also at Navy Pier, Chef Art Smith’s Reunion serves contemporary Southern fare on their spacious patio.
Taureaux Tavern
Taureaux Tavern brings a dose of Parisian chic to the bustling downtown Loop. Their spacious all-season patio, complete with charming string lights and an inviting atmosphere, is the perfect setting to enjoy the French-inspired menu. Enjoy an array of classic and modern dishes, plus plenty of cocktails and bubbles.
Big Star
The Big Star patio is the place to be during summer in Chicago. The bustling Wicker Park space is always packed on nice weather days, when people from all over the city gather to enjoy pitchers of margaritas, tacos on handmade tortillas, whisky cocktails, and the energy of the neighborhood. If the wait for a seat is too long, head to the walk-up window for a bag of tacos to enjoy in the nearby park.
Heads up: The Big Star West Town location also has a large patio and a prime location near Fulton Market and the United Center.
Gibsons Italia
Gibsons Italia is an upscale spot situated on a scenic stretch of the Chicago River. The casually elegant spot serves Italian fare with an emphasis on pasta, seafood, and — most of all — steak. Choose from prime Angus, grass-fed Australian, Japanese, and Wagyu cuts while watching boats drift down the water and soaking in the skyline views.
Blue Door Kitchen
This charming Gold Coast gem feels like dining in the backyard of your (incredibly chic) best friend. The patio at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden is a secluded outdoor space filled with string lights, hanging chandeliers, greenery, and bistro-style seating. The fresh, farm-to-table menu is crafted by chef-to-the-stars Art Smith and changes seasonally.
Pizzeria Portofino
You’ll be instantly transported to the coast of Italy at this riverfront restaurant. Their patio at Pizzeria Portofino is always packed with people sipping Aperol spritz and soaking in the sun, while boats sail past on the calm Chicago River. An indoor/outdoor bar connects the patio to the main dining space, making the entire restaurant feel open air. The menu includes casual Italian favorites, like zucchini blossoms, burrata, hand-stretched pizzas, and cacio e pepe.
Explore more outdoor dining in Chicago
Bar Mar: Award-winning chef José Andrés serves fresh oysters, ceviches, lobster rolls, and more at this seafood-focused oasis in the Loop.
BOKA: In Lincoln Park, BOKA serves their award-winning cuisine on the tucked-away back patio, complete with twinkling lights and lots of foliage.
Big Jones: Enjoy Southern cooking straight from New Orleans on this welcoming backyard patio in the Andersonville neighborhood.
BLVD Steakhouse: This West Loop steakhouse extends the glamorous vibes onto its massive patio, complete with an outdoor bar.
Cabana Club: Atop The Robey hotel in the heart of Wicker Park, Cabana Club offers a panoramic view of the city skyline, a rooftop pool, and frozen cocktails.
Siena Tavern: This long-time River North staple serves its crowd-pleasing Italian fare on a spacious, buzzy sidewalk patio.
Virtue: The sidewalk patio at this Hyde Park gem is a local favorite, where you can enjoy award-winning versions of Southern cuisine.
Bambola: This richly decorated spot in the West Loop is features an open-air dining area and sun-drenched patio, the perfect place to enjoy happy hour or dinner
Porter Kitchen & Deck: This riverside spot has two outdoor seating areas, including a waterfront patio and an elevated deck with city views.
Piccolo Sogno: The patio at this refined Italian spot in West Town has major secret garden vibes. The charming outdoor space features string lights, yellow umbrellas, and ivy-covered walls.
Lirica: Enjoy sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline on Lirica’s waterfront patio, located on iconic Navy Pier.
La Vaca Margarita Bar: This spacious patio is a classic summer spot in Pilsen. Enjoy Mexican classics and flavored margaritas in the sunshine or late into the night.
Wood: In lively Lakeview, this award-winning restaurant is a local favorite for boozy brunch or a relaxed dinner on their charming sidewalk patio
Tabu: This pan-Latin restaurant opens its spacious rooftop in the summer, with a seasonal cocktail menu and even some special menu items specifically for the rooftop.
Norman’s Bistro: Near Bronzeville, Norman’s Bistro has a low-key patio where guests enjoy elevated takes on American Creole food.
Il Culaccino: In the South Loop, Il Culaccino serves both modern and traditional Italian dishes on the covered, all-weather patio.
The Dandy Crown: This funky West Town spot is known for their cocktails and laidback neighborhood-bar vibes.
Truth Italian Restaurant: This casual spot in Bronzeville has a large patio where patrons can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Mesler: In Hyde Park, Mesler’s intimate patio features string lights and lounge-style seating outside The Sophy Hotel.
Azul: This spacious and brightly colored patio space offers a unique view of the adjacent Chicago River and city skyline, plus a menu of Mexican seafood.
Oda Mediterranean Cuisine: Enjoy Turkish and Georgian cuisines, paired with unique wines, on the flower-filled sidewalk patio at this Andersonville gem.
Le Sud: In the heart of Roscoe Village, Le Sud serves seasonal Mediterranean fare and offers year-round outdoor dining thanks to a retractable roof.
Table, Donkey and Stick: Tucked away in Logan Square, this hidden patio has cozy backyard vibes for enjoying wine and charcuterie.
The Bellevue: This lively sidewalk patio is the perfect spot for people watching in the bustling Gold Coast neighborhood.
The Perch: This lush beer garden is tucked away just off the vibrant Divison Street corridor in the Wicker Park neighborhood.
The Lakefront Restaurant: Dine with sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline at The Lakefront Restaurant in Lincoln Park, just off the Lakefront Trail.
Tuco & Blondie: After a day of shopping on the Southport Corridor, take a break on the buzzing Tuco & Blondie patio for tacos and margaritas.
Explore even more outdoor dining options in Chicago.
