Summer in Chicago is best enjoyed outdoors, and the city’s diverse dining scene offers plenty of stunning patios for al fresco feasting. From lush rooftop terraces to charming garden patios, these spots provide the perfect setting to savor delicious food and drinks while soaking up the sunshine. Here are some of the best patios for Chicago outdoor dining.
Aba
Aba in the West Loop offers a beautiful rooftop terrace with lush greenery and string lights, providing an escape in the heart of the city. The menu features delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes and craft cocktails, perfect for a relaxed yet upscale dining experience.
Piccolo Sogno
Italian for “little dream,” Piccolo Sogno’s lush garden patio in River West has made it one of Chicago’s most romantic destinations for Italian cuisine lovers since 2008. The ambiance is matched by the list of more than 400 Italian wines and authentic dishes.
The Duck Inn
Located in Bridgeport, The Duck Inn features a charming backyard that feels like a hidden gem. Known for its comfort food with a gourmet twist, the inviting space allows you to savor dishes like the signature whole rotisserie duck, which is slow-roasted for three hours.
Big Star
Big Star in Wicker Park offers a bustling patio scene with a laid-back atmosphere perfect for people-watching. This popular spot serves up tasty tacos, margaritas and a wide selection of tequila, all in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Frontier
In Noble Square, Frontier offers a spacious patio perfect for group gatherings and casual dining. Known for its adventurous menu featuring whole-animal service and smoked meats, it’s a unique spot for enjoying hearty meals and craft beers outdoors.
Rosebud on Randolph
This recent addition to the Rosebud group is just steps away from Millennium Park’s north entrance. Its patio overlooking the park allows diners to enjoy the Italian classics, steaks and fine wines that have been delighting visitors since 1976.
Robert’s Pizza & Dough Co.
Enjoy delicious food with a delectable view! Robert’s Pizza sits right along Ogden Slip in Streeterville, which provides waterside outdoor seating shaded by bright yellow umbrellas. Robert’s has become celebrated by pizza lovers throughout Chicago for its artisanal pies, wine list and craft cocktails.
Hard Rock Cafe
Marked by the giant neon guitar, Hard Rock Cafe is an iconic Chicago location filled with memorabilia from music legends like Prince, Jimi Hendrix and Billy Joel. Choose from the Hard Rock’s world-famous selection of burgers and cocktails while dining on the expansive patio in the heart of River North.
The Goddess and Grocer
A woman-owned contemporary café and well-curated, independent grocery store, The Goddess and Grocer’s locations in the Gold Coast, West Loop and Bucktown provide spacious, pet-friendly patios surrounded by greenery. Try the exquisite sandwiches and salads and pick from a wonderful selection of beers and wines.
Cindy’s Rooftop
Found atop the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy’s Rooftop features breathtaking views of Millenium Park and Lake Michigan. Executive chef Kaleena Bliss, a former Top Chef contestant, drew upon her Pacific Northwest roots for the seasonal, seafood-forward menu.
Laurel
At the Talbott Hotel, diners can soak up the ambience of the Gold Coast on the greenery-filled 100-seat patio. Enjoy Mediterranean shareable plates and entrees for dinner or listen to live jazz during Sunday brunch.
Upstairs at The Gwen
Above The Gwen Hotel, the Art Deco-inspired terrace of Upstairs offers skyline views in an elegant setting. Open for all three meals, plus brunch on the weekend, the spot of one of the best-kept secrets on the Magnificent Mile.
Volo Restaurant Wine Bar
Roscoe Village’s Volo Restaurant Wine Bar has two outdoor options: a backyard garden complete with cabanas and a dog-friendly sidewalk cafe. Volo has been voted “Best Wine Bar” by the Chicago Reader and the “#1 Hidden City Patio” by Chicago magazine.
Las Fuentes
Since 1982, the patio at Lincoln Park’s Las Fuentes has been a Mexican food hotspot for students at nearby DePaul University, but it’s also great for dates, group parties and family dinners.
Parson’s Chicken & Fish
Enjoy a diversely delicious menu at Parson’s Chicken & Fish in Lincoln Park, Logan Square and Andersonville. Try the Negroni slushies, fried chicken or hush puppies on their expansive outdoor patio.