Summer is drawing to a close, which means there’s never been a better time to check out the most noteworthy patios and rooftops of the season. Thankfully, in addition to the reliable standbys, the city has welcomed a handful of outdoor newcomers this year, leaving locals and visitors alike with no shortage of alfresco options. From a sprawling patio in Pilsen to the nation’s largest rooftop bar, here are eight of the best to book it to, stat.
Photo by Melissa Hom/courtesy of Lettuce Entertain You
The Italian Riviera served as inspiration for this riverfront restaurant, which specializes in from-scratch pizzas made with quality ingredients from around the world. Pies may be comprised of stone-ground Midwestern grains, but the team searches far and wide for the right toppings (think imported bufala fior di latte or Puglia-sourced artichokes). For the ultimate summer experience, arrive via vessel—here, boat docking and alfresco tables aplenty await. 317 N. Clark St., 312.900.9018
Photo by Matt Reeves/courtesy of Maddon's Post
Cubs fans have a new place to congregate pre- and post-game with this Wrigleyville hangout, a collaborative effort from Cubs manager Joe Maddon and chef Tony Mantuano. Head to the second floor for patio vibes, complete with an extensive wine selection and summer-worthy sips (read: spritzes). 1119 W. Waveland Ave., 773.269.5370
Photo by Anthony Tahlier/courtesy of Cabra
Enjoy all-encompassing city skyline views at this rooftop restaurant, which opened within the Hoxton Chicago earlier this year. The menu pays homage to chef Stephanie Izard’s recent travels throughout Peru, as evidenced by bold, South-of-the-border orders like goat empanadas, chicken thigh anticuchos, and chicharron del Puerco. 200 N. Green St., 312.761.1717
Photo by Matt Haas/courtesy of Politan Row
This summer marked the arrival of one of the city’s newest food halls, which brought with it more than a dozen dining and drinking choices to the West Loop. Grab a bite at the many options (think avocado toast from Floriole, coriander chicken from Thattu’s, or truffle BLT salad from Smashed Radish), then head outdoors to Perle, the German-themed beer garden that can seat more than 150 sun-seekers. 111 N. Aberdeen St., 312.278.3040
Photo by Francis Son/courtesy of Beatnik on the River
This waterfront destination takes a cue from its West Town sister spot, drawing inspiration from the Beat Generation for its Boho-chic interiors and lush outdoor surroundings. Chef Marcos Campos leans into an array of international flavors to inform his menu—case in point with Lebanese -style roasted lamb, fattoush salad, and pork cheek fried rice. The drinks are just as worldly—try a Spanish-style G&T or the Nakama Spritz, an Asian twist on the beloved summer dram. 180 N. Upper Wacker Drive, 312.526.3345
Photo by Phillip Sturm/courtesy of Monnie Burke's
One of the largest patios in the city can now be found at this Pilsen restaurant, a neighborhood go-to for New American fare and craft cocktails. Settle into a sunny spot, then sample through several flavor-packed plates, be it capellini with saffron butter, steamed mussels with Thai coconut curry or Spanish octopus with black garlic mole. 1163 W. 18th St., 312.243.2410
Photo by Heidi Harris/courtesy of Offshore
No need to fight for table space at this recently opened rooftop—the environs cover more than 52,300 square feet, making it the largest of its kind in the country. A menu spans the globe with a variety of crowd-pleasing plates, including ahi tuna tartare, lamb meatballs and chicken taquitos. Visit throughout the week for fun happenings, from Locals Night Mondays to Cornhole Tournament Tuesdays. 1000 E. Grand Ave., 312.535.6660
Photo by Clayton Hauck/courtesy of Parson's
The crew behind the highly praised Logan Square patio struck again in Lincoln Park late last year, touching down with the same low-key vibes, approachable fare, and (phew) that iconic Negroni slushy. Once the brain freeze subsides, dive into several house favorites, from Texas Toast and hush puppies to chicken nuggets and oysters. 2435 N. Halsted St., 773.661.6016
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