15 Must-Try Outdoor Restaurants In Chicago, Illinois
Chicago has a way of transforming when the weather turns warm, and I always feel it the moment I sit down at a table outside. A meal in the open air carries a different rhythm.
The city moves around me, the light reflects off glass towers, and Lake Michigan sends a breeze through the streets. In Chicago, Illinois, outdoor dining is not an afterthought.
It is part of the culture. I have lingered over grilled seafood while watching boats pass along the river and shared plates beneath strings of lights that make ordinary evenings feel special.
The skyline becomes part of the décor, the sidewalks double as a stage, and the energy of the neighborhood seeps into every bite. When the air is right and a table is waiting outside, there are few better places to eat.
1. Cindy’s Rooftop
Perched atop the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, this gem offers views so stunning they might just upstage your entree.
The terrace overlooks Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, creating a backdrop that belongs on postcards. Sunsets here transform into full-blown spectacles, painting the sky in shades that make your Instagram followers genuinely jealous.
The menu celebrates seasonal American cuisine with Mediterranean influences, meaning your taste buds get a passport stamp without leaving Illinois.
From wood-fired flatbreads to fresh seafood, everything arrives beautifully plated and bursting with flavor. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between sophisticated and relaxed, so you can dress up or keep it casual.
Located at 12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, this rooftop retreat becomes especially magical during golden hour. Reservations fill up faster than Chicago parking spots, so plan ahead to secure your spot in outdoor dining heaven.
2. Cabra
Peruvian-inspired cuisine meets vibrant rooftop energy at this stylish restaurant atop The Hoxton Chicago in Fulton Market. Chef Stephanie Izard brings her culinary magic to every dish, blending bold flavors with creativity that earned her a James Beard Award.
The outdoor space feels like a tropical escape dropped into Chicago’s urban landscape, complete with lush greenery and playful design elements.
Ceviches here pack punches of citrus and spice that wake up your palate like a morning alarm you actually enjoy.
Skewers sizzle with perfectly charred meats and vegetables, while small plates encourage sharing and exploring the menu’s diverse offerings. The vibe stays energetic without crossing into chaotic, making it ideal for celebrations or catching up with friends.
Find this culinary playground at 200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607, where the West Loop’s restaurant renaissance continues to thrive. Weekend brunch on the patio might just ruin regular breakfasts forever.
3. Aba
Mediterranean sunshine gets bottled up and shipped to Chicago at this West Loop stunner. The expansive third-floor rooftop patio surrounds the restaurant, offering plenty of space for groups to gather without feeling cramped.
Sleek design meets comfortable seating, creating an environment where you’ll want to linger long after your plates are cleared.
Hummus varieties here could inspire poetry, each one smoother than a jazz saxophone solo and topped with creative garnishes.
Grilled meats and vegetables arrive with that perfect char that only open flames can achieve, while fresh salads burst with herbs and textures. Every dish showcases the bright, bold flavors that make Mediterranean cuisine so universally beloved.
Located at 302 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607, this spot sits just steps from Cabra, making the neighborhood a true dining destination. The outdoor space gets particularly lovely during summer evenings when string lights twinkle and conversations flow as freely as the Mediterranean breeze you’ll swear you can feel.
4. Gibsons Italia
Classic Italian-American steakhouse dining meets al fresco elegance along the Chicago River. The patio overlooks the water, giving diners front-row seats to boat traffic and the architectural marvels that line the riverbanks.
White tablecloths and attentive service create an upscale atmosphere that still manages to feel welcoming rather than stuffy.
Steaks arrive cooked to absolute perfection, with that gorgeous crust that makes carnivores weak in the knees.
Pasta dishes showcase traditional Italian preparations with premium ingredients, from silky carbonara to robust Bolognese. Portions lean generous, embracing the American steakhouse philosophy that nobody should leave hungry.
You’ll discover this riverside treasure at 233 N Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, along the Chicago River near Fulton River District.
The combination of waterfront views, exceptional service, and consistently excellent food makes this spot perfect for special occasions or impressing out-of-town visitors who think they’ve seen everything Chicago offers.
5. Pizzeria Portofino
Authentic Italian pizza gets served with a side of River North charm at this neighborhood favorite. The expansive riverfront patio captures a breezy Italian Riviera vibe, perfect for people-watching along the Chicago River while you demolish a perfectly blistered pie.
Brick walls and twinkling lights create an ambiance that transports you straight to a piazza in Italy, minus the transatlantic flight.
Wood-fired ovens work their magic on thin-crust pizzas that achieve that ideal balance between crispy and chewy.
Fresh mozzarella stretches like it’s auditioning for a commercial, while toppings range from classic Margherita simplicity to creative combinations that respect tradition while embracing innovation. Salads and appetizers hold their own, but honestly, you came here for the pizza.
Located at 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, this spot makes casual dining feel special without trying too hard. Summer evenings here feel like vacation, even when you’re just grabbing dinner after work on a Tuesday.
6. RPM Seafood
Fresh catches meet celebrity-backed dining at this riverfront seafood destination. The sprawling patio offers unobstructed views of the Chicago River, where architectural boat tours glide past while you crack into perfectly prepared shellfish.
Modern design elements and comfortable seating create a space that feels both trendy and timeless.
Raw bar selections gleam on ice like edible jewels, each oyster and shrimp cocktail promising oceanic freshness despite Chicago’s landlocked location.
Grilled fish arrives flaky and flavorful, while creative preparations showcase the kitchen’s technical skills and respect for quality ingredients. Even seafood skeptics find themselves converted after sampling the menu’s diverse offerings.
Find this aquatic paradise at 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, sharing an address with Pizzeria Portofino in a dining complex that offers options for every mood. The outdoor space becomes particularly magical during sunset when golden light dances across the water and your plate simultaneously.
7. Chicago Cut Steakhouse
Prime beef meets prime real estate along the Chicago River at this upscale carnivore haven. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a spacious patio that hugs the riverbank, offering diners a front-row seat to the city’s impressive architecture and constant boat parade.
The setting screams special occasion, but the welcoming atmosphere makes any dinner feel celebratory.
Dry-aged steaks arrive with that distinctive funky richness that separates good beef from transcendent beef. Sides come family-style, encouraging sharing and ensuring nobody misses out on those decadent truffle fries or creamed spinach.
The kitchen’s commitment to quality extends beyond meat to encompass fresh seafood and creative appetizers that deserve their own standing ovation.
Located at 300 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60654, this steakhouse elevates outdoor dining to an art form. Warm summer nights here become memories you’ll replay during February’s brutal cold snaps, sustaining you until patio season returns.
8. River Roast
Comfort food gets a sophisticated upgrade at this riverfront gathering spot that celebrates all things roasted and smoked. The massive outdoor deck stretches along the Chicago River, providing ample space for groups to spread out and soak up sunshine.
Nautical touches and rustic design elements create a laid-back vibe that pairs perfectly with the menu’s hearty offerings.
Rotisserie chickens spin hypnotically behind glass, emerging golden and juicy enough to make you reconsider every chicken you’ve ever eaten.
Smoked meats carry deep, complex flavors that speak to hours of patient preparation, while seasonal sides showcase local produce at its peak. Brunch here becomes an event, with creative takes on morning classics that justify waiting for a table.
You’ll find this riverside gem at 315 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60654, where the deck becomes one of the city’s best outdoor dining destinations. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from business lunchers to families to friends gathering for weekend celebrations.
9. Robert’s Pizza & Dough Co.
Artisanal thin-crust pizzas find a devoted following at this Streeterville spot where perfectly blistered crusts and creative toppings reign supreme. The outdoor patio provides a perfect perch for enjoying square slices while watching the neighborhood buzz with activity.
Bright, modern decor and comfortable seating create an inviting space that works equally well for quick lunches or leisurely dinners.
Hand-stretched thin-crust pizzas emerge from the oven with beautifully blistered edges and balanced toppings that could convert even deep-dish devotees. Cheese stretches to the very corners, creating those coveted crispy bits that make Detroit-style pizza so addictive.
Creative topping combinations respect the style’s Michigan roots while incorporating Chicago’s diverse culinary influences.
Located at 465 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611, this pizza haven proves that Chicago’s pizza scene extends far beyond deep dish stereotypes. The patio becomes especially appealing during lunch hours when office workers and tourists alike seek satisfying meals in the fresh air.
10. Miru
Japanese cuisine reaches new heights at this stunning 11th-floor restaurant perched high above the Chicago River at The St. Regis Chicago.
The outdoor terrace offers sweeping views that stretch from downtown skyscrapers to Lake Michigan’s endless blue horizon. Minimalist design and thoughtful lighting create an atmosphere of refined elegance that complements the menu’s sophisticated offerings.
Sushi and sashimi showcase pristine fish that tastes like it was swimming hours ago, sliced with precision that borders on artistic.
Robata-grilled items arrive with perfect char marks and smoky depth, while creative small plates blend Japanese techniques with global influences. The presentation alone deserves applause, with each dish composed like edible sculpture.
Find this elevated dining experience at 401 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, inside The St. Regis Chicago. Sunset reservations on the terrace book up quickly, offering front-row seats to one of nature’s best shows with a side of exceptional cuisine.
11. Tanta
Peruvian flavors explode across your palate at this vibrant River North destination. The lively rooftop terrace brings a splash of Lima’s energy to Chicago, with colorful decor and a festive atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
Chef Gaston Acurio’s global reputation precedes him, and the food delivers on every promise his name implies.
Ceviches arrive so fresh and bright they practically glow, with citrus and chili creating that addictive balance of acid and heat.
Anticuchos showcase Peru’s grilling traditions with tender, marinated meats that disappear faster than you can say alpaca. Bold flavors and generous portions ensure nobody leaves hungry or disappointed.
Located at 118 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, this spot transforms ordinary meals into culinary adventures. The patio becomes particularly lively during weekend brunches when creative drinks and hearty dishes fuel adventures across the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
12. Parson’s Chicken & Fish
Fried chicken and fish get elevated to art forms at this Logan Square hangout that defines casual cool. The sprawling outdoor space features picnic tables, string lights, and a laid-back vibe that makes you want to stay for hours.
Neon signs and playful decor create an atmosphere that’s part backyard party, part trendy hotspot, all Chicago charm.
Chicken tenders arrive golden and crispy with meat so juicy you’ll wonder how they achieve such perfection.
Fish sandwiches showcase fresh catches with creative toppings that elevate humble ingredients into crave-worthy meals. The simplicity of the menu belies the skill required to execute each dish so consistently well.
You’ll discover this neighborhood gem at 2952 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, where locals gather to celebrate summer’s arrival and mourn its departure. The outdoor space becomes one of the city’s best spots for enjoying good food, good weather, and good company without any pretense.
13. Big Star Wicker Park
Tacos and outdoor seating combine forces at this Wicker Park institution that helped define the neighborhood’s dining scene. The sprawling patio wraps around the corner, providing prime people-watching real estate in one of Chicago’s trendiest areas.
Picnic tables and a lively first-come, first-served patio policy keep things democratic, ensuring everyone gets their shot at taco glory.
Corn tortillas get pressed fresh and filled with everything from classic carnitas to creative vegetarian options that satisfy even dedicated meat eaters. Each taco arrives perfectly balanced, with toppings that complement rather than overwhelm the star ingredients.
Small plates and sides round out the menu, but honestly, you could eat tacos here every day and die happy.
Located at 1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, this spot becomes a summertime pilgrimage site for taco lovers citywide. Expect waits during peak hours, but the patio’s lively energy and exceptional food make every minute worthwhile.
14. The Duck Inn
Gastropub excellence meets neighborhood charm at this Bridgeport treasure that proves great dining exists beyond downtown’s glittering towers.
The garden patio offers a relaxed outdoor space where locals gather to enjoy elevated comfort food and cold beverages. String lights and communal tables create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages conversation and lingering.
Duck fat fries alone justify the trip, arriving golden and addictive with a richness that makes regular fries seem boring forever.
Burgers showcase quality beef and creative toppings, while seasonal specials highlight the kitchen’s technical skills and ingredient sourcing. The menu walks that perfect line between ambitious and accessible, offering something for adventurous eaters and comfort food seekers alike.
Find this neighborhood gem at 2701 S Eleanor St, Chicago, IL 60608, where Bridgeport’s working-class roots meet contemporary culinary ambitions.
15. The Dawson
Contemporary American cuisine shines at this River West destination where the spacious covered courtyard patio steals the show.
The lush courtyard setting provides a stylish backdrop that highlights the restaurant’s inviting design and relaxed atmosphere. Modern design and comfortable seating create an environment that feels special without being stuffy or pretentious.
Seasonal menus showcase local ingredients prepared with techniques that respect tradition while embracing innovation.
Steaks and chops arrive cooked to perfection, while vegetable dishes prove that sides deserve as much attention as proteins. Creative drinks and an impressive list complement the food perfectly, making this spot ideal for celebrations or romantic dinners.
Located at 730 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, in Chicago’s River West neighborhood, this restaurant caps off our outdoor dining tour with style and substance.
The rooftop becomes particularly magical during golden hour when the setting sun paints the city in warm hues and your meal tastes even better than it looks.