Broken Shaker, located inside the River North Freehand Hotel, celebrates the start of the Chicago summer on their outdoor patio. Usher in the warmer months with cocktails and bites while lounging on the patio overlooking East Ohio Street.
Broken Shaker offers all-day, fresh food options from a street-food inspired menu and cocktails composed of elixirs, syrups and infusions made from garden herbs and spices, fresh-pressed produce and exotic ingredients from around the world. For a lighter sip, guests can select fresh and seasonal cocktails, natural wines, and a selection of low ABV drinks.
Photo courtesy of Broken Shaker at Freehand Chicago
Pippin's Tavern
Pippin’s Tavern, 39 E. Chicago, announces the debut of its new patio. Officially open to the public, the 40-seat, pet-friendly patio is located on Wabash Ave., steps away from Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Alongside the new patio, Pippin’s Tavern has launched a new summer cocktail menu featuring specialty libations handcrafted with seasonal ingredients.
Options from the new summer cocktail menu include Aloe, Is It Me You’re Looking For? made with Bluecoat Gin, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, aloe, cucumber, and lemon; Summer’s Apogee made with Cuervo Tequila, Pimm’s No. 1, rhubarb cordial, lemon, and basil; Teaches of Peaches made with Tito’s Vodka, peach sorbet, Angostura bitters, and prosecco; Orange Smash made with Jameson Orange, simple syrup, lime, and mint, and more.
Alongside the new lineup of cocktails, Pippin’s Tavern offers a modern American menu featuring grown ingredients that have been responsibly farmed. Menu highlights include favorites like the signature Pippin’s Burger, Roasted Half Chicken, Beer Battered Fish and Chips, Blackened Steak Bites, Pippin’s Cheese Balls, and more. Those saving room for dessert can select Peanut Butter Pie, Waffle Cone with rum ice cream, and Seasonal Sorbet.
Photo courtesy of Taylor Elliott Productions for Pippin's Tavern
the Albert
Alongside East Ontario Street in Streeterville, seating for 30 is ensconced by florals and oversized potted plants. Menu options include salads, house-made pastas, seafood preparations and proteins. In celebration of planting season, Chef Chiappetti, a gardener, will also plant a rooftop garden atop Hotel EMC2. Freshly grown herbs and other ingredients will inform his dishes, as well as the team’s seasonal cocktail creations, all summer long.
Photo courtesy of Katherine McConnell for the Albert
Maple & Ash
The restaurant offers a sushi-centric patio menu that’s separate from their standard dining room fare for those dining outside on Maple Street and in the adjoining covered “Courtyard” setup. Full of special rolls (like the King Crab maki served with warm drawn butter), nigiri flights, tartare, and more from sister restaurant Kessaku in Dallas, plus some signature steaks and plates from the main restaurant.
Big Star Wicker Park
Big Star’s Damen Ave Patio, situated in Wicker Park offers tacos and drinks from their collection of whiskeys and bourbons. Big Star offers a side of tunes spun by local DJs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday complete with drink specials, vinyl raffles and giveaways. And of course, in celebration of Taco Tuesdays, buy 5 and get one taco free — all day.
Testaccio
Featuring flowers and greenery along the brick facade, the experience is reminiscent of al fresco street dining in Europe, is pet friendly, and seats 80 on its sidewalk café. Guests can select from Testaccio's full menu of Italian fare and wood-fired oven specialties, along with wine director Joe Crivolio's curated regional and amphora-made wine selections and seasonal cocktails. Throughout the summer, live music and events can be expected outdoors.
Aspecial Aperitivo service from 5pm-6pm, including wines/cocktails on special + included nibbles such as fresh and seasonal crostinis.
Publican Quality Meats
Chicago's butcher shop pros are serving it up this spring and summer on PQM's patio, with a lineup of artisanal meats and cheeses, sandwiches and pours. Al fresco dining and drinking with options like the Porchetta sandwich with house porchetta, marinated fennel and herb aioli on freshly baked focaccia; or a PQM Charcuterie Board, which includes Chef/Butcher Rob Levitt’s house-cured meats and seasonal assortments, with your drink of choice such as a $30 bottle of red, white or rosé.
The Whistler
Hidden just out the back door of The Whistler, lies a neighborhood al fresco patio cast in the warm glow of hanging string lights. Guests can sip on a rotating selection of craft cocktails by Head Bartender Alex Barbatsis. The patio comes complete with an abbreviated bar serving drinks like the “Fresh Apples” where they juice a whole apple directly into a glass with your choice of Bourbon or Mezcal. The outdoor bar also serves up a rotating house punch as well as a selection of beers, rail drinks, and shots. Seating is first come first serve, doors open at 6 p.m Tuesday through Sunday.
Venteux
Venteux offers a Parisian-inspired garden patio. Guests can seek refuge underneath classic Parisian-style umbrellas while surrounded by hanging plants and seasonal floral arrangements. Brunch, happy hour, or dinner with Venteux’s nouvelle French menu and raw bar complete with seafood towers, caviar service, and a new lineup of seafood shooters like the "M&M” a pickled mezcal shot with a freshly-shucked mussel, lime, and chili salt.
The Publican
The Publican is back this year with an all-new outdoor biergarten on Fulton Market. With seating for 100, brunch + dinner menus, BBQ carrots and a weekday Happy Hour from 4-6pm featuring $2 oysters, $25 wines by the bottle and $10 martinis and rotating craft cocktails.
Osteria Langhe
Osteria Langhe offers its “secret garden” patio—an outdoor experience, evoking feelings of dining in an Italian home. Osteria's back patio offers a full selection of traditional Piedmontese cuisine. Alongside their meal, guests can select wine from Wine Director/Owner Aldo Zaninotto's curated regional list or a cocktail like the Contratto Spritz. The outdoor patio space is covered for all-weather dining and seating is first come, first served.
Expect wine dinners (special ticketed events) in a communal setting in the secret garden for groups of 6-14, with special off-the-menu and seasonal offerings paired with wines from around the world, as well as wine education and tasting knowledge helmed by Zaninotto himself. Also, look for a pet-friendly sidewalk cafe to launch in front of OL with a special Aperitivo service from 5pm-6pm, including wines/cocktails on special + included nibbles such as fresh and seasonal crostinis.
Lardon
The all-day neighborhood café and salumeria located in Logan Square is gearing up for the return of their dinner service, featuring a brand new menu from Executive Chef Chris Thompson. Lardon's patio offers handcrafted cocktail, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and French-inspired dishes from the new dinner offerings.
bar avec
bar avec is an open-air rooftop bar. With Chef Dylan Patel, select from both Mediterranean and Indian spiced creations such as Schwarma Fried Chicken and Vadouvan Steamed Mussels. Perched eight floors above the second location of One Off Hospitality's avec in River North, this spot couples views of the city’s skyline with a vegetable and seafood-forward menu and lineup of cocktails.
Big Star Mariscos
A Big Star patio is debuting in West Town for the first time this year as the team gears up to launch the patio of their recently opened seafood-focused location, Big Star Mariscos. Expect fresh ceviches, fish tacos, and margs at their corner lot on Ogden and Racine. Happy hour is from 4pm-6pm and $2 oysters are shucked all night long on Tuesdays starting at 4pm. Big Star Mariscos is taking "walking taco” by launching their new to-go window.
To celebrate the debut of their new to-go window on Saturday, April 29th, Big Star Mariscos is offering a free breakfast taco from 9am-2pm or until they are gone and a free Pretty Cool Ice Cream Pop from 3pm-6pm or until they are gone. n.
TO-GO WINDOW HOURS -
SATURDAY & SUNDAY: Breakfast tacos only (9am-10am), full brunch (10am-2pm), main menu (3pm-10pm)
WEEKDAYS: Main menu (4pm-10pm)
Chateau Carbide
Chateau Carbide, Pendry Chicago's, French inspired rooftop lounge, is returning for the 2023 season with an all-new botanical driven, absinthe inspired cocktail bar. Slated to open in June 2023, the new, cocktail bar will present a menu of eight seasonally inspired drinks, several of which feature an absinthe component. Chateau Carbide will showcase personal drip fountains and more than a dozen curated absinthe bottles, as well as an outdoor pizza oven churning out French-style flatbreads and seasonal bites.
Photo courtesy of Huge Galdones for Big Star Mariscos
I|O Godfrey
Located in River North, west of the Magnificent Mile, The Godfrey Hotel’s rooftop lounge, I|O Godfrey, is 15,00-square-feet of space.
Every Tuesday through Friday from 2-5 p.m. the rooftop hosts a happy hour where guests can select cocktails for a discounted price, including Ketel One cocktails and select wines like Prosecco and I|O House Chardonnay. There’s also I|O Godfrey's cocktail flights which include tasting size portions of five kitchen cocktails, like a Chef’s Margarita and a Bourbonberry Lemonade with an assortment of macarons for $65. In addition, half-off small plates like the Wagyu Beef Sliders, House-Made Hummus, and Prosciutto & Burrata Flatbread pair with views of the southern Chicago skyline.
Photo courtesy of I|O Godfrey
The Loyalist
The Loyalist has officially opened up their patio for the summer. Guests can indulge in casual French fare from Chef John Shields including the burger made with a blend of short rib, chuck and ground bacon. To kick it up a notch, it’s topped with pickled and charred onions, American cheese, pickles and onion-infused mayo atop a sesame seed bun. The Loyalist also just launched one of Chicago’s newest Sunday brunches with dishes like a pimento cheese eclair with mimolette cheese, a soft scramble mousseline with black truffle and chives and a croque madame made with Benton’s ham, egg and sauce mornay on sourdough.
El Che Steakhouse & Bar
In the West Loop, El Che Steakhouse & Bar offers a selection of fire-flamed meats and seafood from Executive Chef John Manion such as grilled oysters, prawns, steak tartare, empanadas, and more that can be ordered al fresco. El Che also offers a selection of hand crafted cocktails and wines by the glass to sip on the patio.
Bar Mar
Bar Mar, the seafood-focused restaurant by Chef José Andrés located in the Bank of America tower, features a 50-seat patio with river views.
Bambola
Bambola features a patio on Randolph and Ogden streets with 35 seats. The restaurant also recently debuted a new happy hour, “Every Day is Happy at Bambola”, where guests can experience all house cocktails, all Mezze (starters), and all wines by the glass for $10 from Tuesday to Saturday, 5-8pm. The team recently debuted a new menu of shared plates with Asian and European influences that complement the cocktails, natural wines, and spirit-free beverages.
Gioia
Gioia offers Italian cuisine from all 21 regions of Italy with modern refinements from Chef & Partner Federico Comacchio on their 42-seat patio - new this year.
Farm Bar
The Farm Bar patio offers a garden and a cocktail menu and it dog-friendly too. Cocktails include the Cider Sangria, Let the Beet Drop, and the Chai Cold Brew Martini. Every Tuesday, diners also have the chance to give back to the community of Lakeview in which Farm Bar will donate 20% of your dining experience to the charity of your choice with their weekly Giving Tuesday program.
LG’s Bar & Kitchen
Situated in Old Town, LG’s Bar & Kitchen kicks off patio season this spring and summer with shareable cocktails, adult popsicles & capri suns, and ice cream cocktails. Happy hour Wednesday-Friday 5-7pm where selected cocktails are $8 and food items are $5.
Stan’s Donuts & Coffee
Whether in the suburbs or right downtown, there are a number of Stan’s locations that offer outdoor patio seating, such as: OakBrook Terrace, Orland Park, Erie, 181 N Michigan, Broadway, Rush, Hyde Park and 535 N. Michigan.
Raised Urban Rooftop
This rooftop cocktail bar is located on the third floor of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel and boasts river and skyline views. Raised only accepts walk-ins.
Rose Mary
Opening May 1, Rose Mary’s patio is in the Fulton Market neighborhood, and diners will experience a Mediterranean options while on their patio, which is inspired by the natural elements of Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Shade from Rose Mary’s striped umbrellas will keep diners cool while they order Italian-Croatian fusioned cuisine. Overhead strings of lights adorn the patio section, which provides the backdrop and lighting.
BLVD Steakhouse
BLVD Steakhouse has announced their official grand opening of their 120-seat outdoor patio officially opening May 6. Located at the corner of Lake and Green Streets in the Fulton Market District, the new patio features an outdoor dining room, a 20-seat bar, and a private event space. An updated dinner menu of prime cuts, fresh seafood, and classics from Chef Partner/Culinary Director Joe Flamm will be available in both the main dining room and outdoors. Chef Flamm will also debut a new menu in conjunction with the patio opening, guests can select dishes like Beef Fat Fried Veal Chop Milanese with caper aioli, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs and Diver Scallops with brown butter, asparagus vinaigrette, balsamic vinegar, and pine nuts.
Urbanbelly
urbanbelly offers diners a patio while ordering ramen, bowls and Korean BBQ. The patio is dog-friendly patio as well.
Table at Crate
The Table at Crate from Chef Bill Kim boasts an outdoor patio that’s both heated and can be enclosed.
Lírica
Lírica, located at the Sable Hotel on Navy Pier’s East End, offers Spanish and Iberian-inspired cuisine in a patio space.
Offshore Rooftop
Located at the far East end of Chicago’s Navy Pier, Offshore Rooftop offers views of Lake Michigan and the city’s skyline.
Recess
Recess in the West Loop offers a 14,000-square-feet. Recess also offers a happy hour to choose from on the patio Wednesday through Friday from 4-6pm with half-off starters and $7 Jim Beam Old Fashioneds. Thirsty Thursdays at Recess also offer Chicagoans $4 glasses of house wines. Bring the dogs, too, because the patio is dog friendly.
Additionally, diners can attend specially themed night Tuesday through Friday. Here’s the weekly schedule from Recess:
Trivia Tuesdays:
General Trivia: 5/16, 5/30
‘80s Trivia: 5/23
Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place
Name That Tune Bingo Wednesdays:
Music Bingo
Prizes for winners
Drink specials made for Hump Day
Throwback Thursdays:
Old school music and videos
Nostalgic drink specials
Games and more
Trivia and Bingo begin at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Throwback Thursdays kickoff at 6 p.m. Pizza Fridays is set to kick-off in early Summer at Recess.
The Smith
Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood and steps from Navy Pier and the Riverwalk, The Smith offers a patio along Clark Street to give diners the al fresco scene. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and happy hour. The Smith also offers a weekend sunset menu from 4:00pm to 5:00pm with select specials and offerings.
Wood
Wood’s patio is situated on the corner of Halsted and Buckingham Place. Seasonal small and large plates, cocktails, and a variety of specials will be offered.
The Dearborn
The Dearborn's patio overlooks Chicago’s Loop where guests can sip on classic cocktails or order small and large plates from Chef Aaron.
The Press Room
The Press Room’s patio offers guests food, wines and spring cocktails like Pimm’s Cup #18, which is inspired by the classic drink “The Pimm’s Cup or House Cup” invented some time between 1823 and 1840 by James Pimm in his oyster bar in London.
FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar
In the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, FireLake’s dining room expands out onto its patio. Monday through Thursday from 4-7pm, guests order from a rotating menu of happy hour specials. The patio is also dog-friendly.
Soul & Smoke
In Evanston, Soul & Smoke’s outdoor patio is located at 1601 Payne Street. Soul & Smoke offers barbecue options such as smoked brisket, rib tips, pulled pork and sides including creamy mac & cheese, collard greens and shrimp and grits. Soul & Smoke’s Avondale at Rockwell on the River offers a patio overlooking the North Branch of the Chicago River.
Rooftop at Tabu
Atomic Hospitality unveiled an 8,000 square foot rooftop pop-up above their newly opened pan-Latin restaurant, Tabu, located in Chicago’s West Loop. The rooftop will remain open through the summer and fall. Guests are invited to views of the Chicago skyline, as well as a selection of bites from Tabu’s menu, including a few new dishes by Chef Saul Roman, some that can only be ordered at the pop-up. The rooftop also has a summer-friendly cocktail menu curated by Tabu’s Beverage Manager, Javier Arroyo.
Sepia
On Sepia’s patio, guests can select from Chef Andrew Zimmerman’s menu while sipping on cocktails or a glass of wine recommended by Alex Ring.
Proxi
Diner’s can chose patio seating alongside Randolph Street and order a variety of Chef Andrew Zimmerman's flavors.
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen
Located along Wicker Park’s Milwaukee Avenue, the patio at Bloom Plant Based Kitchen opens at 11:30 a.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. on Sunday so Chicago diners can choose lunch in the sun, or ocktails in the evening seven nights a week.
Petterino’s
Petterino’s sidewalk cafe offers handmade recipes and Petterino’s dishes from Chef Ozzy Amelotti.
Chicago Burger Company
Soon re-opening for the summer season, Chicago Burger Company offers burgers and vegetarian options, shakes and cocktails, alongside views of the Riverwalk and Navy Pier fireworks.
Photo courtesy of Offshore Rooftop
LH Rooftop at LondonHouse Chicago
LH, the tri-level rooftop bar serving American cuisine, will reopen for the spring/summer season on Monday, May 15. They will be hosting a rooftop opening party on Tuesday, May 16 all day featuring all day Ketel One botanical cocktails, 25% off lunch, passed Veuve, grab bags and live DJs.
Geja's Cafe
Geja's three outdoor fireplace tables can seat up to six guests. Outdoor seats are made by reservation request only. Geja’s has introduced their first ever specialty seasonal menu. The spring premier dinner is available in addition to all of Geja’s fondue dinners, and includes seasonal offerings like brie and Monterey Jack cheese fondue, brand new seasonal dipping sauces for the entrée course which is cooked in a limited-time flavorful jerk-pineapple broth, and a white chocolate raspberry chocolate fondue for dessert.
Aboyer
The newly redesigned patio at Aboyer boasts a covered pergola, greenery, and a French garden aesthetic.
The Hampton Social - Skokie
The Hampton Social - Skokie has added rooftop dining and bar space to the existing restaurant. The Hampton Rooftop, features 7,500 square feet and can accommodate 172 seated guests. Those who prefer the shade can make their way to the partially-covered 20-seat bar with a pergola, topped with marquee lighting spelling out “Hampton Rooftop.”
Guests can take an elevator or staircase to the second floor, where they can select from a condensed menu of the brand’s dishes like the Manhattan- or Maine-style Lobster Rolls and shareable favorites including Baja Fish Tacos and the Shelter Island Chicken Sandwich. Cocktails offered include, the I Like it a Yacht (vodka, aperol, lavender, lemon)and Hampton Water rosé. The rooftop menu will be available with a new “order at the table” system, which allows guests to pilot their own dining experiences.
The Hampton Rooftop is located at 4999 Old Orchard Center C29, around the corner entrance to the restaurant itself, and will be open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, with brunch service launching this summer.
LYRA
LÝRA's streetside patio seats 80 between tables and the lounge area.
Violi
Sister restaurant to LYRA and located in Oak Brook, VIOLI boasts a 2,000 square foot all-season pergola patio featuring retractable guillotine windows, infrared heat lamps, and olive trees within an outdoor garden that blooms year-round.
Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern's corner patio and outdoor lounge on 51 W Kinzie seats 112 guests.
Bar Siena
Bar Siena West Loop offers a 20 seat patio while the Old Orchard location offers one of the area’s indoor/outdoor dining space, with a front atrium seating 100 and a back patio with additional seating.
Al fresco dining is available at Bar Siena Chicago at 832 W Randolph. Bar Siena Old Orchard is located 4999 Old Orchard Rd.
Bandit
Comfort dishes and cocktails on Bandit's back patio – tucked away behind the building, offering a sunny and airy spot for an al fresco meal, and comes complete with it’s own bar.
Old Town Pour House
Old Town Pour House has locations in Chicago, Oak Brook, and Naperville. Outdoor dining is available at both Chicago and Naperville locations.
Sweetwater Tavern and Grille
Sweetwater offers views of the city from their patio area, just north of Millennium Park and steps from the Theater district.
South Branch
Along the Chicago River, South Branch features an outdoor patio with an open-air bar.
Photo courtesy of DineAmic Hospitality for LYRA
Evette's All Day
The restaurant will offer a sidewalk patio with seating for about 20 to 25 guests. Evette’s All Day melds the Mediterranean flavors of Lebanon with Mexico’s culinary traditions while staying true to Chef Mitchell Jamra’s Midwestern roots. Breakfast is served everyday until 2 p.m. and includes items like tacos, a variety of hash dishes and chilaquiles with a pita or tortilla option.
Roundhouse Sports Bar
The recently opened Roundhouse Sports Bar in Logan Square will debut a private back patio this spring after revamping the space. Featuring a menu of traditional bar food with an Asian-American twist, guests will be offered a $5 happy hour menu available Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The happy hour menu items include $5 menu items like Dumplings, Chicken Satay Skewers and $5 drinks including wine and a beer plus a shot combo.
Bartoli's Pizzeria - Roscoe Village
Bartoli’s Pizzeria in Roscoe Village offers a dog-friendly, flower-lined sidewalk patio for about 20 guests. Full food and drink menus are available, and diners are welcome to BYOB. Guests can select Bartoli’s options while dining alfresco like their signature Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza with Italian sausage, mushroom, onion and green pepper, Badger-style Fried Cheeseballs, Nonna Bartoli’s Meatball Sandwich with homemade meatballs and marinara on french bread and more.
Central Park Bar
Central Park Bar in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood features an outdoor 3,500 square-foot “backyard bar” in what was previously an empty city lot adjacent to the bar. Weather permitting, patrons can use the enclosed bar area of the space. The enclosed area is weather-proofed and features overhead heaters as well as three 55-inch TVs and a bumper pool table, so guests can play during the cooler months.
Adjacent to the covered area, stone landscaping gives the space a backyard feel. Seven picnic tables sit under mulberry trees while hammered copper tiki-style gas torches line the space. Guests can opt to hang out on two white porch swings or by the fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs.
Draft cocktails, local and international beers, rotating frozen cocktails and half-price happy hour every Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. will be available al fresco. Guests can pair their drinks with bites from The Gilty Pig food truck that visits the bar on select Friday evenings throughout patio season.
Cody's Public House
Cody’s Public House in West Lakeview offers a recently revamped dog-friendly beer garden that can accommodate 100 people. The beer garden features high top tables, TVs, darts and a section for bean bags. Guests can bring their grilling favorites and take advantage of several grills that are available for use for free. Weather permitting, Cody’s also features a year-round fire pit.
Easy Bar
Located at the corner of Division and Damen in Wicker Park, the casual, dog-friendly sidewalk patio at Easy Bar has seating for 15 to 20 guests. This neighborhood bar offers a daily Half-Price Happy Hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
Oda Mediterranean Cuisine
Oda Mediterranean in Andersonville features a flower lined sidewalk patio with seating for 25 guests. The covered seating area provides guests with protection from the sun and other weather elements. Guests can choose from Oda’s new weekday happy hour alfresco. Available Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., specials include Fried Mussel Skewers ($2 each), Falafel ($1 each), Sigara Boregi ($1 each), and half-off glasses of bubbles. On Wednesday only, Oda offers half-off wine bottles.
The Graystone Tavern
The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville features a weatherproofed outdoor beer garden that can seat up to 50 people among 12 tables. The patio features string lights overhead, six TVs, and games like bags, giant Jenga and giant Connect 4.
The Rambler Kitchen + Tap
The bar and restaurant offers both a flower-lined, dog-friendly sidewalk patio with dining for 48 as well as an outdoor beer garden with a removable roof. The beer garden accommodates up to 68 guests and is outfitted with six TVs and a sound system. Guests can select from the full bar and food menus alfresco.
Uproar
Uproar, located on Wells in the heart of Old Town, features a flower-lined sidewalk patio dotted with patio umbrellas where guests can choose from a full food and drink menus along with Uproar’s daily specials alfresco.
Available Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Uproar's happy hour specials include $5 menu items like Truffle Fries, Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower Bites, Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Skewers (2), Chicken Tenders and Wings. $5 drinks include martinis, house wine, draft beer, Old Fashioneds and High Life bottles. Uproar also offers a Wine Down Wednesday special with half-off glasses and bottles of wine plus $8 flatbreads.
Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar
Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar in Andersonville has a flower-lined sidewalk patio on Clark Street that can accommodate 40 guests. The patio features wine crate planters and umbrellas to protect diners on hot days. Patrons can choose from a full food and drink menus on the patio along with happy hour specials like $2 oysters, $2 shrimp cocktail and $5 draft bubbles from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday through Saturday and from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Photo courtesy of Papergirl PR for The Graystone Tavern
Porter Kitchen & Deck
Located along the Chicago River between Lake and Randolph, Porter Kitchen & Deck has reopened for lunch and dinner, with riverside patio dining. Porter features two outdoor areas with a patio overlooking the river and a rooftop-esque deck that offers views of the city.
80 Proof
Dine at 80 Proof al fresco style on their dog-friendly sidewalk patio.
Ranalli's Lincoln Park
Ranalli’s features a large, dog-friendly outdoor sidewalk cafe.
Brickhouse
Located next to Wrigley Field at Gallagher Way, Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern offers two outdoor terraces and views of the field and the Chicago skyline.
Benchmark
Benchmark features a fully retractable roof for guests to sit outside while choosing from appetizers, wraps, pizza and more.
Gaslight
Gaslight features a patio that is open seven days a week for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Photo courtesy of Porter Kitchen & Deck
Francois Frankie
The patio at François Frankie will transport you from Chicago to the brasseries that line the rues and boulevards of Paris.
Mordecai
Named after the Chicago Cubs player, Mordecai Brown, this neighborhood restaurant offers a back bar that features a collection of spirits, leading to a selection of vintage (& contemporary) cocktails. Located across from Wrigley Field, guests can choose from American options on Mordecai's upstairs patio while keeping track of the current score.
Tanta
Tanta's rooftop features a view of the city with a retractable awning, in addition to a skylight island bar. Here, guests can dine al fresco while selecting from Peruvian options, such as skewers straight from the streets of Lima and Peru's national cocktail, the pisco sour, among other menu items. Tanta's rooftop also showcases greenery and a neon llama sign instructing all to “Fuel the Llama.”
Frontier
Frontier also has an all-weather beer garden that features a retractable roof.
Ina Mae Tavern
This Wicker Park spot has a dog-friendly patio and Southern cuisine, in addition to their to-go window for a Sno-Ball.
Taureaux Tavern
Taureaux Tavern's full-service veranda is year-round featuring their French American fare - Taureaux Tavern’s veranda is dog-friendly.
Lady May
Lady May’s (405 N. Wabash Ave.) patio, is located right on the river walk. Offering Chef Austin Blake’s coastal Southern eats and similarly-themed libations. Their patio is dog-friendly as well.
Lottie's Pub
Offering a sunny outdoor patio with traditional bar fare at Lottie's. Their patio is also dog-friendly.
Photo courtesy of Mordecai
Fulton Market Kitchen
Dinner and late night drinks are offered at Fulton Market Kitchen's patio situated on the Cobblestone streets of Fulton Market District.
Komo Chicago
Kōmo offers both a la carte and the 7-course tasting menus available on their patio. Their latest Happy Hour Menu with half off featured cocktails and items such as Fried Katsu Bao, Japanese Tacos, Spicy Tuna Crunch, and more.
Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
The restaurant at 1401 South Michigan Avenue features a backyard patio with an outdoor veranda affording views of the South Loop skyline.
Carnivale
Carnivale offers an outdoor terrace with libations and signature dishes.
City Cruises Chicago
Guests can select from cocktails and cuisine options during brunch and dinner cruises, all while taking in the views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline from the Chicago River.
Pacino’s
Cocktails or a glass of vino along with a wide range of classically-inspired antipasti, pizza, salads, seafood, fresh pasta, and more, under Pacino's outdoor pergola.
Oaken Bistro + Bar
Oaken Bistro + Bar, 200 N. Field Dr., features a patio complete with fire pit seating for cooler days. Dine al fresco seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch service on weekends.
Photo courtesy of Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
Sfera Sicilian Street Food
Sfera Sicilian Street Food has unveiled their brand new patio area. This dog-friendly space stretches from Ardmore St to Broadway, boasting 32 comfortable seats adorned by lush plants and vibrant greenery.
Sunda New Asian
Sunda opens up their patio (weather permitting), which seats 24 (6 tables / 4 seats each), is dog friendly and surrounded by a floral and greenery barrier. New Spring menu items include:
PAPAYA SALAD - green papaya, jicama, carrots, green beans, tomatoes,shallot crisps, peanuts, tamarind chili lime, mix herbs, rice cracker Allergy: sesame in rice cracker (gluten cross contact), peanuts as garnish mix herbs: dill, thai basil, mint, parsley, cilantro
SALT & PEPPER RIBS - wok tossed adobo ribs, scallions, szechuan spice, rayu Allergy: soy, mushroom, gluten, cross contact shellfish (fryer) NO nuts or fish szechuan spice: szechuan peppercorn, cumin, fennel, star anise, cardamom, cayenne, mushroom powder, salt & sugar
UNAGI FOIE - tempura unagi, seared foie gras, citrus marmalade Allergy: gluten, soy, fish NO nuts or shellfish
TOM YUM CHILEAN SEA BASS - tom yum broth, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, baby bok choy,kaffir lime oil Allergy: gluten, dairy, fish, onion, garlic, soy NO nuts or shellfish kaffir lime
Sunda hosts happy hour Monday through Friday from 4pm to 6pm and features specials like:
$6 dishes bar bites
$6 sushi handrolls
$8 cocktails
$6 wine
$14 sake cans (180ML)
Brunchers is available Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 2pm. Additionally, on Sunday nights only, industry members can take advantage of 50% off select menu items.
Photo courtesy of Sunda New Asian
LeTour
The new French-Moroccan restaurant from Amy Morton and Chef Debbie Gold in Evanston has recently opened their patio! With comfy outdoor seating and lush greenery surrounding the area, Place LeTour, the official name for the patio, is a spot for lunch or dinner this summer.
Cabana Club at The Robey
With a 180-degree view of Chicago’s skyline this rooftop pool and bar at The Robey is an option in Wicker Park. The pool is open to the public at 11am daily and hotel guests with first come, first serve service. The bar has a new menu of frozen cocktails and Mexican BBQ fusion food this summer. Open this May through Labor Day weekend.
Up Room at The Robey
This 13th floor rooftop lounge sits atop the tallest building in the Wicker Park neighborhood. Guests can sit on sofas inside or head out to the terrace to see views of the city's skyline with classic or house-developed cocktails.
Formento's
Chef Don Walker cooks up Italian dishes curated to pair with the concept’s wine program and offering a patio to gather outside this spring and summer.
Canal Street Eatery
Located at 320 South Canal St, this Italian-inspired restaurant and wine bar, coffee and pastry counter and gourmet retail market is surrounded by an outdoor patio in the West Loop gate neighborhood Complimentary blankets are available starting in May to picnic in the park.
Afterbar
This cocktail bar is adjacent to the garden and patio of Canal Street Eatery. It offers a menu of classic cocktails, wines, and beers. In addition to full bar seating, Afterbar opens its doors to create an indoor/outdoor atmosphere which offers seating for 42 on the patio. The Park at 320is south of Canal Street Market and Eatery, offering a garden and patio seating for guests.
Yardbird
Serving up American Classics, the Yardbird location features an arched entryway and black façade. Both sides of this corner storefront include awnings and signage. During the summer, the façade opens to offer interaction between the indoor and outdoor seating.
Jinsei Motto
Jinsei Motto, the West Loop sushi restaurant from Chef Patrick Bouaphanh and Andrew Choi, will open their W Randolph Street patio for outdoor dining for lunch with warmer weather this May. Their lunch menu is the same as dinner (nigiri, sushi, hand rolls with Japanese fish and dessert) and is offered Wed-Fri from 11:30-2:30pm.
Broken Shaker at Freehand Chicago
Broken Shaker, located inside the River North Freehand Hotel, celebrates the start of the Chicago summer on their outdoor patio. Usher in the warmer months with cocktails and bites while lounging on the patio overlooking East Ohio Street.
Broken Shaker offers all-day, fresh food options from a street-food inspired menu and cocktails composed of elixirs, syrups and infusions made from garden herbs and spices, fresh-pressed produce and exotic ingredients from around the world. For a lighter sip, guests can select fresh and seasonal cocktails, natural wines, and a selection of low ABV drinks.
Pippin's Tavern
Pippin’s Tavern, 39 E. Chicago, announces the debut of its new patio. Officially open to the public, the 40-seat, pet-friendly patio is located on Wabash Ave., steps away from Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Alongside the new patio, Pippin’s Tavern has launched a new summer cocktail menu featuring specialty libations handcrafted with seasonal ingredients.
Options from the new summer cocktail menu include Aloe, Is It Me You’re Looking For? made with Bluecoat Gin, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, aloe, cucumber, and lemon; Summer’s Apogee made with Cuervo Tequila, Pimm’s No. 1, rhubarb cordial, lemon, and basil; Teaches of Peaches made with Tito’s Vodka, peach sorbet, Angostura bitters, and prosecco; Orange Smash made with Jameson Orange, simple syrup, lime, and mint, and more.
Alongside the new lineup of cocktails, Pippin’s Tavern offers a modern American menu featuring grown ingredients that have been responsibly farmed. Menu highlights include favorites like the signature Pippin’s Burger, Roasted Half Chicken, Beer Battered Fish and Chips, Blackened Steak Bites, Pippin’s Cheese Balls, and more. Those saving room for dessert can select Peanut Butter Pie, Waffle Cone with rum ice cream, and Seasonal Sorbet.
the Albert
Alongside East Ontario Street in Streeterville, seating for 30 is ensconced by florals and oversized potted plants. Menu options include salads, house-made pastas, seafood preparations and proteins. In celebration of planting season, Chef Chiappetti, a gardener, will also plant a rooftop garden atop Hotel EMC2. Freshly grown herbs and other ingredients will inform his dishes, as well as the team’s seasonal cocktail creations, all summer long.
Maple & Ash
The restaurant offers a sushi-centric patio menu that’s separate from their standard dining room fare for those dining outside on Maple Street and in the adjoining covered “Courtyard” setup. Full of special rolls (like the King Crab maki served with warm drawn butter), nigiri flights, tartare, and more from sister restaurant Kessaku in Dallas, plus some signature steaks and plates from the main restaurant.
Big Star Wicker Park
Big Star’s Damen Ave Patio, situated in Wicker Park offers tacos and drinks from their collection of whiskeys and bourbons. Big Star offers a side of tunes spun by local DJs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday complete with drink specials, vinyl raffles and giveaways. And of course, in celebration of Taco Tuesdays, buy 5 and get one taco free — all day.
Testaccio
Featuring flowers and greenery along the brick facade, the experience is reminiscent of al fresco street dining in Europe, is pet friendly, and seats 80 on its sidewalk café. Guests can select from Testaccio's full menu of Italian fare and wood-fired oven specialties, along with wine director Joe Crivolio's curated regional and amphora-made wine selections and seasonal cocktails. Throughout the summer, live music and events can be expected outdoors.
Aspecial Aperitivo service from 5pm-6pm, including wines/cocktails on special + included nibbles such as fresh and seasonal crostinis.
Publican Quality Meats
Chicago's butcher shop pros are serving it up this spring and summer on PQM's patio, with a lineup of artisanal meats and cheeses, sandwiches and pours. Al fresco dining and drinking with options like the Porchetta sandwich with house porchetta, marinated fennel and herb aioli on freshly baked focaccia; or a PQM Charcuterie Board, which includes Chef/Butcher Rob Levitt’s house-cured meats and seasonal assortments, with your drink of choice such as a $30 bottle of red, white or rosé.
The Whistler
Hidden just out the back door of The Whistler, lies a neighborhood al fresco patio cast in the warm glow of hanging string lights. Guests can sip on a rotating selection of craft cocktails by Head Bartender Alex Barbatsis. The patio comes complete with an abbreviated bar serving drinks like the “Fresh Apples” where they juice a whole apple directly into a glass with your choice of Bourbon or Mezcal. The outdoor bar also serves up a rotating house punch as well as a selection of beers, rail drinks, and shots. Seating is first come first serve, doors open at 6 p.m Tuesday through Sunday.
Venteux
Venteux offers a Parisian-inspired garden patio. Guests can seek refuge underneath classic Parisian-style umbrellas while surrounded by hanging plants and seasonal floral arrangements. Brunch, happy hour, or dinner with Venteux’s nouvelle French menu and raw bar complete with seafood towers, caviar service, and a new lineup of seafood shooters like the "M&M” a pickled mezcal shot with a freshly-shucked mussel, lime, and chili salt.
The Publican
The Publican is back this year with an all-new outdoor biergarten on Fulton Market. With seating for 100, brunch + dinner menus, BBQ carrots and a weekday Happy Hour from 4-6pm featuring $2 oysters, $25 wines by the bottle and $10 martinis and rotating craft cocktails.
Osteria Langhe
Osteria Langhe offers its “secret garden” patio—an outdoor experience, evoking feelings of dining in an Italian home. Osteria's back patio offers a full selection of traditional Piedmontese cuisine. Alongside their meal, guests can select wine from Wine Director/Owner Aldo Zaninotto's curated regional list or a cocktail like the Contratto Spritz. The outdoor patio space is covered for all-weather dining and seating is first come, first served.
Expect wine dinners (special ticketed events) in a communal setting in the secret garden for groups of 6-14, with special off-the-menu and seasonal offerings paired with wines from around the world, as well as wine education and tasting knowledge helmed by Zaninotto himself. Also, look for a pet-friendly sidewalk cafe to launch in front of OL with a special Aperitivo service from 5pm-6pm, including wines/cocktails on special + included nibbles such as fresh and seasonal crostinis.
Lardon
The all-day neighborhood café and salumeria located in Logan Square is gearing up for the return of their dinner service, featuring a brand new menu from Executive Chef Chris Thompson. Lardon's patio offers handcrafted cocktail, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and French-inspired dishes from the new dinner offerings.
bar avec
bar avec is an open-air rooftop bar. With Chef Dylan Patel, select from both Mediterranean and Indian spiced creations such as Schwarma Fried Chicken and Vadouvan Steamed Mussels. Perched eight floors above the second location of One Off Hospitality's avec in River North, this spot couples views of the city’s skyline with a vegetable and seafood-forward menu and lineup of cocktails.
Big Star Mariscos
A Big Star patio is debuting in West Town for the first time this year as the team gears up to launch the patio of their recently opened seafood-focused location, Big Star Mariscos. Expect fresh ceviches, fish tacos, and margs at their corner lot on Ogden and Racine. Happy hour is from 4pm-6pm and $2 oysters are shucked all night long on Tuesdays starting at 4pm. Big Star Mariscos is taking "walking taco” by launching their new to-go window.
To celebrate the debut of their new to-go window on Saturday, April 29th, Big Star Mariscos is offering a free breakfast taco from 9am-2pm or until they are gone and a free Pretty Cool Ice Cream Pop from 3pm-6pm or until they are gone. n.
TO-GO WINDOW HOURS -
Chateau Carbide
Chateau Carbide, Pendry Chicago's, French inspired rooftop lounge, is returning for the 2023 season with an all-new botanical driven, absinthe inspired cocktail bar. Slated to open in June 2023, the new, cocktail bar will present a menu of eight seasonally inspired drinks, several of which feature an absinthe component. Chateau Carbide will showcase personal drip fountains and more than a dozen curated absinthe bottles, as well as an outdoor pizza oven churning out French-style flatbreads and seasonal bites.
I|O Godfrey
Located in River North, west of the Magnificent Mile, The Godfrey Hotel’s rooftop lounge, I|O Godfrey, is 15,00-square-feet of space.
Every Tuesday through Friday from 2-5 p.m. the rooftop hosts a happy hour where guests can select cocktails for a discounted price, including Ketel One cocktails and select wines like Prosecco and I|O House Chardonnay. There’s also I|O Godfrey's cocktail flights which include tasting size portions of five kitchen cocktails, like a Chef’s Margarita and a Bourbonberry Lemonade with an assortment of macarons for $65. In addition, half-off small plates like the Wagyu Beef Sliders, House-Made Hummus, and Prosciutto & Burrata Flatbread pair with views of the southern Chicago skyline.
The Loyalist
The Loyalist has officially opened up their patio for the summer. Guests can indulge in casual French fare from Chef John Shields including the burger made with a blend of short rib, chuck and ground bacon. To kick it up a notch, it’s topped with pickled and charred onions, American cheese, pickles and onion-infused mayo atop a sesame seed bun. The Loyalist also just launched one of Chicago’s newest Sunday brunches with dishes like a pimento cheese eclair with mimolette cheese, a soft scramble mousseline with black truffle and chives and a croque madame made with Benton’s ham, egg and sauce mornay on sourdough.
El Che Steakhouse & Bar
In the West Loop, El Che Steakhouse & Bar offers a selection of fire-flamed meats and seafood from Executive Chef John Manion such as grilled oysters, prawns, steak tartare, empanadas, and more that can be ordered al fresco. El Che also offers a selection of hand crafted cocktails and wines by the glass to sip on the patio.
Bar Mar
Bar Mar, the seafood-focused restaurant by Chef José Andrés located in the Bank of America tower, features a 50-seat patio with river views.
Bambola
Bambola features a patio on Randolph and Ogden streets with 35 seats. The restaurant also recently debuted a new happy hour, “Every Day is Happy at Bambola”, where guests can experience all house cocktails, all Mezze (starters), and all wines by the glass for $10 from Tuesday to Saturday, 5-8pm. The team recently debuted a new menu of shared plates with Asian and European influences that complement the cocktails, natural wines, and spirit-free beverages.
Gioia
Gioia offers Italian cuisine from all 21 regions of Italy with modern refinements from Chef & Partner Federico Comacchio on their 42-seat patio - new this year.
Farm Bar
The Farm Bar patio offers a garden and a cocktail menu and it dog-friendly too. Cocktails include the Cider Sangria, Let the Beet Drop, and the Chai Cold Brew Martini. Every Tuesday, diners also have the chance to give back to the community of Lakeview in which Farm Bar will donate 20% of your dining experience to the charity of your choice with their weekly Giving Tuesday program.
LG’s Bar & Kitchen
Situated in Old Town, LG’s Bar & Kitchen kicks off patio season this spring and summer with shareable cocktails, adult popsicles & capri suns, and ice cream cocktails. Happy hour Wednesday-Friday 5-7pm where selected cocktails are $8 and food items are $5.
Stan’s Donuts & Coffee
Whether in the suburbs or right downtown, there are a number of Stan’s locations that offer outdoor patio seating, such as: OakBrook Terrace, Orland Park, Erie, 181 N Michigan, Broadway, Rush, Hyde Park and 535 N. Michigan.
Raised Urban Rooftop
This rooftop cocktail bar is located on the third floor of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel and boasts river and skyline views. Raised only accepts walk-ins.
Rose Mary
Opening May 1, Rose Mary’s patio is in the Fulton Market neighborhood, and diners will experience a Mediterranean options while on their patio, which is inspired by the natural elements of Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Shade from Rose Mary’s striped umbrellas will keep diners cool while they order Italian-Croatian fusioned cuisine. Overhead strings of lights adorn the patio section, which provides the backdrop and lighting.
BLVD Steakhouse
BLVD Steakhouse has announced their official grand opening of their 120-seat outdoor patio officially opening May 6. Located at the corner of Lake and Green Streets in the Fulton Market District, the new patio features an outdoor dining room, a 20-seat bar, and a private event space. An updated dinner menu of prime cuts, fresh seafood, and classics from Chef Partner/Culinary Director Joe Flamm will be available in both the main dining room and outdoors. Chef Flamm will also debut a new menu in conjunction with the patio opening, guests can select dishes like Beef Fat Fried Veal Chop Milanese with caper aioli, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs and Diver Scallops with brown butter, asparagus vinaigrette, balsamic vinegar, and pine nuts.
Urbanbelly
urbanbelly offers diners a patio while ordering ramen, bowls and Korean BBQ. The patio is dog-friendly patio as well.
Table at Crate
The Table at Crate from Chef Bill Kim boasts an outdoor patio that’s both heated and can be enclosed.
Lírica
Lírica, located at the Sable Hotel on Navy Pier’s East End, offers Spanish and Iberian-inspired cuisine in a patio space.
Offshore Rooftop
Located at the far East end of Chicago’s Navy Pier, Offshore Rooftop offers views of Lake Michigan and the city’s skyline.
Recess
Recess in the West Loop offers a 14,000-square-feet. Recess also offers a happy hour to choose from on the patio Wednesday through Friday from 4-6pm with half-off starters and $7 Jim Beam Old Fashioneds. Thirsty Thursdays at Recess also offer Chicagoans $4 glasses of house wines. Bring the dogs, too, because the patio is dog friendly.
Additionally, diners can attend specially themed night Tuesday through Friday. Here’s the weekly schedule from Recess:
Trivia Tuesdays:
General Trivia: 5/16, 5/30
‘80s Trivia: 5/23
Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place
Name That Tune Bingo Wednesdays:
Music Bingo
Prizes for winners
Drink specials made for Hump Day
Throwback Thursdays:
Old school music and videos
Nostalgic drink specials
Games and more
Trivia and Bingo begin at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Throwback Thursdays kickoff at 6 p.m. Pizza Fridays is set to kick-off in early Summer at Recess.
The Smith
Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood and steps from Navy Pier and the Riverwalk, The Smith offers a patio along Clark Street to give diners the al fresco scene. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and happy hour. The Smith also offers a weekend sunset menu from 4:00pm to 5:00pm with select specials and offerings.
Wood
Wood’s patio is situated on the corner of Halsted and Buckingham Place. Seasonal small and large plates, cocktails, and a variety of specials will be offered.
The Dearborn
The Dearborn's patio overlooks Chicago’s Loop where guests can sip on classic cocktails or order small and large plates from Chef Aaron.
The Press Room
The Press Room’s patio offers guests food, wines and spring cocktails like Pimm’s Cup #18, which is inspired by the classic drink “The Pimm’s Cup or House Cup” invented some time between 1823 and 1840 by James Pimm in his oyster bar in London.
FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar
In the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, FireLake’s dining room expands out onto its patio. Monday through Thursday from 4-7pm, guests order from a rotating menu of happy hour specials. The patio is also dog-friendly.
Soul & Smoke
In Evanston, Soul & Smoke’s outdoor patio is located at 1601 Payne Street. Soul & Smoke offers barbecue options such as smoked brisket, rib tips, pulled pork and sides including creamy mac & cheese, collard greens and shrimp and grits. Soul & Smoke’s Avondale at Rockwell on the River offers a patio overlooking the North Branch of the Chicago River.
Rooftop at Tabu
Atomic Hospitality unveiled an 8,000 square foot rooftop pop-up above their newly opened pan-Latin restaurant, Tabu, located in Chicago’s West Loop. The rooftop will remain open through the summer and fall. Guests are invited to views of the Chicago skyline, as well as a selection of bites from Tabu’s menu, including a few new dishes by Chef Saul Roman, some that can only be ordered at the pop-up. The rooftop also has a summer-friendly cocktail menu curated by Tabu’s Beverage Manager, Javier Arroyo.
Sepia
On Sepia’s patio, guests can select from Chef Andrew Zimmerman’s menu while sipping on cocktails or a glass of wine recommended by Alex Ring.
Proxi
Diner’s can chose patio seating alongside Randolph Street and order a variety of Chef Andrew Zimmerman's flavors.
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen
Located along Wicker Park’s Milwaukee Avenue, the patio at Bloom Plant Based Kitchen opens at 11:30 a.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. on Sunday so Chicago diners can choose lunch in the sun, or ocktails in the evening seven nights a week.
Petterino’s
Petterino’s sidewalk cafe offers handmade recipes and Petterino’s dishes from Chef Ozzy Amelotti.
Chicago Burger Company
Soon re-opening for the summer season, Chicago Burger Company offers burgers and vegetarian options, shakes and cocktails, alongside views of the Riverwalk and Navy Pier fireworks.
LH Rooftop at LondonHouse Chicago
LH, the tri-level rooftop bar serving American cuisine, will reopen for the spring/summer season on Monday, May 15. They will be hosting a rooftop opening party on Tuesday, May 16 all day featuring all day Ketel One botanical cocktails, 25% off lunch, passed Veuve, grab bags and live DJs.
Geja's Cafe
Geja's three outdoor fireplace tables can seat up to six guests. Outdoor seats are made by reservation request only. Geja’s has introduced their first ever specialty seasonal menu. The spring premier dinner is available in addition to all of Geja’s fondue dinners, and includes seasonal offerings like brie and Monterey Jack cheese fondue, brand new seasonal dipping sauces for the entrée course which is cooked in a limited-time flavorful jerk-pineapple broth, and a white chocolate raspberry chocolate fondue for dessert.
Aboyer
The newly redesigned patio at Aboyer boasts a covered pergola, greenery, and a French garden aesthetic.
The Hampton Social - Skokie
The Hampton Social - Skokie has added rooftop dining and bar space to the existing restaurant. The Hampton Rooftop, features 7,500 square feet and can accommodate 172 seated guests. Those who prefer the shade can make their way to the partially-covered 20-seat bar with a pergola, topped with marquee lighting spelling out “Hampton Rooftop.”
Guests can take an elevator or staircase to the second floor, where they can select from a condensed menu of the brand’s dishes like the Manhattan- or Maine-style Lobster Rolls and shareable favorites including Baja Fish Tacos and the Shelter Island Chicken Sandwich. Cocktails offered include, the I Like it a Yacht (vodka, aperol, lavender, lemon) and Hampton Water rosé. The rooftop menu will be available with a new “order at the table” system, which allows guests to pilot their own dining experiences.
The Hampton Rooftop is located at 4999 Old Orchard Center C29, around the corner entrance to the restaurant itself, and will be open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, with brunch service launching this summer.
LYRA
LÝRA's streetside patio seats 80 between tables and the lounge area.
Violi
Sister restaurant to LYRA and located in Oak Brook, VIOLI boasts a 2,000 square foot all-season pergola patio featuring retractable guillotine windows, infrared heat lamps, and olive trees within an outdoor garden that blooms year-round.
Siena Tavern
Siena Tavern's corner patio and outdoor lounge on 51 W Kinzie seats 112 guests.
Bar Siena
Bar Siena West Loop offers a 20 seat patio while the Old Orchard location offers one of the area’s indoor/outdoor dining space, with a front atrium seating 100 and a back patio with additional seating.
Al fresco dining is available at Bar Siena Chicago at 832 W Randolph. Bar Siena Old Orchard is located 4999 Old Orchard Rd.
Bandit
Comfort dishes and cocktails on Bandit's back patio – tucked away behind the building, offering a sunny and airy spot for an al fresco meal, and comes complete with it’s own bar.
Old Town Pour House
Old Town Pour House has locations in Chicago, Oak Brook, and Naperville. Outdoor dining is available at both Chicago and Naperville locations.
Sweetwater Tavern and Grille
Sweetwater offers views of the city from their patio area, just north of Millennium Park and steps from the Theater district.
South Branch
Along the Chicago River, South Branch features an outdoor patio with an open-air bar.
Evette's All Day
The restaurant will offer a sidewalk patio with seating for about 20 to 25 guests. Evette’s All Day melds the Mediterranean flavors of Lebanon with Mexico’s culinary traditions while staying true to Chef Mitchell Jamra’s Midwestern roots. Breakfast is served everyday until 2 p.m. and includes items like tacos, a variety of hash dishes and chilaquiles with a pita or tortilla option.
Roundhouse Sports Bar
The recently opened Roundhouse Sports Bar in Logan Square will debut a private back patio this spring after revamping the space. Featuring a menu of traditional bar food with an Asian-American twist, guests will be offered a $5 happy hour menu available Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The happy hour menu items include $5 menu items like Dumplings, Chicken Satay Skewers and $5 drinks including wine and a beer plus a shot combo.
Bartoli's Pizzeria - Roscoe Village
Bartoli’s Pizzeria in Roscoe Village offers a dog-friendly, flower-lined sidewalk patio for about 20 guests. Full food and drink menus are available, and diners are welcome to BYOB. Guests can select Bartoli’s options while dining alfresco like their signature Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza with Italian sausage, mushroom, onion and green pepper, Badger-style Fried Cheeseballs, Nonna Bartoli’s Meatball Sandwich with homemade meatballs and marinara on french bread and more.
Central Park Bar
Central Park Bar in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood features an outdoor 3,500 square-foot “backyard bar” in what was previously an empty city lot adjacent to the bar. Weather permitting, patrons can use the enclosed bar area of the space. The enclosed area is weather-proofed and features overhead heaters as well as three 55-inch TVs and a bumper pool table, so guests can play during the cooler months.
Adjacent to the covered area, stone landscaping gives the space a backyard feel. Seven picnic tables sit under mulberry trees while hammered copper tiki-style gas torches line the space. Guests can opt to hang out on two white porch swings or by the fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs.
Draft cocktails, local and international beers, rotating frozen cocktails and half-price happy hour every Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. will be available al fresco. Guests can pair their drinks with bites from The Gilty Pig food truck that visits the bar on select Friday evenings throughout patio season.
Cody's Public House
Cody’s Public House in West Lakeview offers a recently revamped dog-friendly beer garden that can accommodate 100 people. The beer garden features high top tables, TVs, darts and a section for bean bags. Guests can bring their grilling favorites and take advantage of several grills that are available for use for free. Weather permitting, Cody’s also features a year-round fire pit.
Easy Bar
Located at the corner of Division and Damen in Wicker Park, the casual, dog-friendly sidewalk patio at Easy Bar has seating for 15 to 20 guests. This neighborhood bar offers a daily Half-Price Happy Hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
Oda Mediterranean Cuisine
Oda Mediterranean in Andersonville features a flower lined sidewalk patio with seating for 25 guests. The covered seating area provides guests with protection from the sun and other weather elements. Guests can choose from Oda’s new weekday happy hour alfresco. Available Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., specials include Fried Mussel Skewers ($2 each), Falafel ($1 each), Sigara Boregi ($1 each), and half-off glasses of bubbles. On Wednesday only, Oda offers half-off wine bottles.
The Graystone Tavern
The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville features a weatherproofed outdoor beer garden that can seat up to 50 people among 12 tables. The patio features string lights overhead, six TVs, and games like bags, giant Jenga and giant Connect 4.
The Rambler Kitchen + Tap
The bar and restaurant offers both a flower-lined, dog-friendly sidewalk patio with dining for 48 as well as an outdoor beer garden with a removable roof. The beer garden accommodates up to 68 guests and is outfitted with six TVs and a sound system. Guests can select from the full bar and food menus alfresco.
Uproar
Uproar, located on Wells in the heart of Old Town, features a flower-lined sidewalk patio dotted with patio umbrellas where guests can choose from a full food and drink menus along with Uproar’s daily specials alfresco.
Available Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Uproar's happy hour specials include $5 menu items like Truffle Fries, Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower Bites, Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Skewers (2), Chicken Tenders and Wings. $5 drinks include martinis, house wine, draft beer, Old Fashioneds and High Life bottles. Uproar also offers a Wine Down Wednesday special with half-off glasses and bottles of wine plus $8 flatbreads.
Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar
Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar in Andersonville has a flower-lined sidewalk patio on Clark Street that can accommodate 40 guests. The patio features wine crate planters and umbrellas to protect diners on hot days. Patrons can choose from a full food and drink menus on the patio along with happy hour specials like $2 oysters, $2 shrimp cocktail and $5 draft bubbles from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday through Saturday and from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Porter Kitchen & Deck
Located along the Chicago River between Lake and Randolph, Porter Kitchen & Deck has reopened for lunch and dinner, with riverside patio dining. Porter features two outdoor areas with a patio overlooking the river and a rooftop-esque deck that offers views of the city.
80 Proof
Dine at 80 Proof al fresco style on their dog-friendly sidewalk patio.
Ranalli's Lincoln Park
Ranalli’s features a large, dog-friendly outdoor sidewalk cafe.
Brickhouse
Located next to Wrigley Field at Gallagher Way, Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern offers two outdoor terraces and views of the field and the Chicago skyline.
Benchmark
Benchmark features a fully retractable roof for guests to sit outside while choosing from appetizers, wraps, pizza and more.
Gaslight
Gaslight features a patio that is open seven days a week for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Francois Frankie
The patio at François Frankie will transport you from Chicago to the brasseries that line the rues and boulevards of Paris.
Mordecai
Named after the Chicago Cubs player, Mordecai Brown, this neighborhood restaurant offers a back bar that features a collection of spirits, leading to a selection of vintage (& contemporary) cocktails. Located across from Wrigley Field, guests can choose from American options on Mordecai's upstairs patio while keeping track of the current score.
Tanta
Tanta's rooftop features a view of the city with a retractable awning, in addition to a skylight island bar. Here, guests can dine al fresco while selecting from Peruvian options, such as skewers straight from the streets of Lima and Peru's national cocktail, the pisco sour, among other menu items. Tanta's rooftop also showcases greenery and a neon llama sign instructing all to “Fuel the Llama.”
Frontier
Frontier also has an all-weather beer garden that features a retractable roof.
Ina Mae Tavern
This Wicker Park spot has a dog-friendly patio and Southern cuisine, in addition to their to-go window for a Sno-Ball.
Taureaux Tavern
Taureaux Tavern's full-service veranda is year-round featuring their French American fare - Taureaux Tavern’s veranda is dog-friendly.
Lady May
Lady May’s (405 N. Wabash Ave.) patio, is located right on the river walk. Offering Chef Austin Blake’s coastal Southern eats and similarly-themed libations. Their patio is dog-friendly as well.
Lottie's Pub
Offering a sunny outdoor patio with traditional bar fare at Lottie's. Their patio is also dog-friendly.
Fulton Market Kitchen
Dinner and late night drinks are offered at Fulton Market Kitchen's patio situated on the Cobblestone streets of Fulton Market District.
Komo Chicago
Kōmo offers both a la carte and the 7-course tasting menus available on their patio. Their latest Happy Hour Menu with half off featured cocktails and items such as Fried Katsu Bao, Japanese Tacos, Spicy Tuna Crunch, and more.
Chicago Firehouse Restaurant
The restaurant at 1401 South Michigan Avenue features a backyard patio with an outdoor veranda affording views of the South Loop skyline.
Carnivale
Carnivale offers an outdoor terrace with libations and signature dishes.
City Cruises Chicago
Guests can select from cocktails and cuisine options during brunch and dinner cruises, all while taking in the views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline from the Chicago River.
Pacino’s
Cocktails or a glass of vino along with a wide range of classically-inspired antipasti, pizza, salads, seafood, fresh pasta, and more, under Pacino's outdoor pergola.
Oaken Bistro + Bar
Oaken Bistro + Bar, 200 N. Field Dr., features a patio complete with fire pit seating for cooler days. Dine al fresco seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch service on weekends.
Sfera Sicilian Street Food
Sfera Sicilian Street Food has unveiled their brand new patio area. This dog-friendly space stretches from Ardmore St to Broadway, boasting 32 comfortable seats adorned by lush plants and vibrant greenery.
Sunda New Asian
Sunda opens up their patio (weather permitting), which seats 24 (6 tables / 4 seats each), is dog friendly and surrounded by a floral and greenery barrier. New Spring menu items include:
PAPAYA SALAD - green papaya, jicama, carrots, green beans, tomatoes,shallot crisps, peanuts, tamarind chili lime, mix herbs, rice cracker Allergy: sesame in rice cracker (gluten cross contact), peanuts as garnish mix herbs: dill, thai basil, mint, parsley, cilantro
SALT & PEPPER RIBS - wok tossed adobo ribs, scallions, szechuan spice, rayu Allergy: soy, mushroom, gluten, cross contact shellfish (fryer) NO nuts or fish szechuan spice: szechuan peppercorn, cumin, fennel, star anise, cardamom, cayenne, mushroom powder, salt & sugar
UNAGI FOIE - tempura unagi, seared foie gras, citrus marmalade Allergy: gluten, soy, fish NO nuts or shellfish
SALMON CRUDO - cilantro, lime vinaigrette, aji amarillo, rayu lime vinaigrette: lime juice, charri mix (yuzu puree, rice vinegar, sugar, salt), aji amarillo aji amarillo: fruity yellow peruvian pepper paste rayu: sesame chili oil
HOTATE CARPACCIO - japanese scallop, cucumber, tosazu sauce, aji panca, yuzu olive oil tosazu: dashi (fish), sweet vinegar (mirin, sugar, rice wine), white soy (gluten) aji panca: smoky red peruvian pepper paste rayu: sesame chili oil
BLUEFIN TATAKI - pickled garlic, crispy potato, truffle ponzu, tomatillo salsa tomatillo salsa: tomatillo, jalapeno, onions, togarashi, olive oil, cilantro, lime truffle ponzu: ponzu sauce, white truffle oil pickled garlic: tamari, sugar, vinegar
BUTCHER’S CUT WAGYU - australian wagyu sirloin cap, ssamjang sauce, white kimchi white kimchi: onion, pear nectar, mirin, vinegar, sugar, apple cider vinegar ssamjang: onions, garlic, gochujang (gluten), sesame oil, miso paste, honey, scallions
ADOBO PORK BELLY - mustard greens, caramelized onions jus, vinegar soy, mix herbs Allergy: soy, garlic, onion, gluten, fish, shellfish (cross contact gluten)
TOM YUM CHILEAN SEA BASS - tom yum broth, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, baby bok choy,kaffir lime oil Allergy: gluten, dairy, fish, onion, garlic, soy NO nuts or shellfish kaffir lime
Sunda hosts happy hour Monday through Friday from 4pm to 6pm and features specials like:
Brunchers is available Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 2pm. Additionally, on Sunday nights only, industry members can take advantage of 50% off select menu items.
LeTour
The new French-Moroccan restaurant from Amy Morton and Chef Debbie Gold in Evanston has recently opened their patio! With comfy outdoor seating and lush greenery surrounding the area, Place LeTour, the official name for the patio, is a spot for lunch or dinner this summer.
Cabana Club at The Robey
With a 180-degree view of Chicago’s skyline this rooftop pool and bar at The Robey is an option in Wicker Park. The pool is open to the public at 11am daily and hotel guests with first come, first serve service. The bar has a new menu of frozen cocktails and Mexican BBQ fusion food this summer. Open this May through Labor Day weekend.
Up Room at The Robey
This 13th floor rooftop lounge sits atop the tallest building in the Wicker Park neighborhood. Guests can sit on sofas inside or head out to the terrace to see views of the city's skyline with classic or house-developed cocktails.
Formento's
Chef Don Walker cooks up Italian dishes curated to pair with the concept’s wine program and offering a patio to gather outside this spring and summer.
Canal Street Eatery
Located at 320 South Canal St, this Italian-inspired restaurant and wine bar, coffee and pastry counter and gourmet retail market is surrounded by an outdoor patio in the West Loop gate neighborhood Complimentary blankets are available starting in May to picnic in the park.
Afterbar
This cocktail bar is adjacent to the garden and patio of Canal Street Eatery. It offers a menu of classic cocktails, wines, and beers. In addition to full bar seating, Afterbar opens its doors to create an indoor/outdoor atmosphere which offers seating for 42 on the patio. The Park at 320 is south of Canal Street Market and Eatery, offering a garden and patio seating for guests.
Yardbird
Serving up American Classics, the Yardbird location features an arched entryway and black façade. Both sides of this corner storefront include awnings and signage. During the summer, the façade opens to offer interaction between the indoor and outdoor seating.
Jinsei Motto
Jinsei Motto, the West Loop sushi restaurant from Chef Patrick Bouaphanh and Andrew Choi, will open their W Randolph Street patio for outdoor dining for lunch with warmer weather this May. Their lunch menu is the same as dinner (nigiri, sushi, hand rolls with Japanese fish and dessert) and is offered Wed-Fri from 11:30-2:30pm.
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