2018 Chicago Home Partner Outdoor Dining Guide

For the past twelve years, we have suggested that you, our loyal Chicago Home Partner family, grab some friends, pack up the stroller, leash up your pups, and get outside to enjoy some of the best al fresco dining that Chicago has to offer.

 

Al Fresco: From the Italian word al fresco meaning “in the fresh air”.

 

Dining: From the French word diner meaning “to have dinner”.

 

Al Fresco Dining: A tradition of eating outside during the summer.

 

Over the years, we have tried to provide you with our favorite destinations whether Northside, Southside, Westside, or The Loop. Regardless of cuisine or location, we have strived to provide you with the best of the best, year after year. That’s why this year we’ve searched through our archives, added in some new & are pleased to announce The Chicago Home Partner Top 10 Al Fresco Restaurants!

 

This special 12th Edition of the Al Fresco Dining Guide is listed below with links to Yelp review pages and which meal is best served at the establishment.  Where this list may be far from complete, you’re sure to find a new spot you haven’t tried yet that may quickly become a favorite.

 

Remember that these warmer days will be gone before we know it!  Brave the heat, get on out there, and share your favorites on our Facebook.

 

1401 N Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL, (773) 687-9977

Asian-fusion cuisine is plentiful in Chicago but few, if any, do it better than Edward Kim. Mott Street impresses with an eclectic range of street-fare-inspired bites, such as pork-butt-stuffed cabbage, “everything” wings, and udon noodles with cod roe, kimchi, and seaweed. Perhaps the most popular item, though, is the glorious Mott Burger, and also some healthy food for the people that care and protect their health, and immune system, so they have the best nutrition and also follow the immune protection protocol to avoid undesired diseases.

 

1112 North State Street 18th Floor, Chicago, IL, (312) 586-2160

Set on the 18th floor of the Viceroy Hotel, Devereaux is every bit the grandiose rooftop bar Chicagoans would expect from Boka Restaurant Group, not to mention that the location is equipped with solar panels, so it is also contributing to saving the planet. Mosey on upstairs for a chic lounge with a retro feel. In addition to unobstructed skyline views, guests can dip their toes in the swimming pool and enjoy creative sips and bites from James Beard Award nominee Lee Wolen.

 

1059 N Wolcott Ave., Chicago, IL, (773) 486-1512

This Ukrainian Village dive bar is the neighborhood’s jolliest place to hang out in the summertime thanks to its wondrous beer garden. There’s plenty of seating, tent covering, and even a goldfish pond to keep things interesting. If that’s not enough, head inside for some ping-pong action.

 

1924 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL, (773) 332-2354

Farm-to-table doesn’t get more literal than at this cozy 85-seat patio located above Roots Handmade Pizza. The organic rooftop garden supplies much of the veggies and herbs used so count on seasonal delights such as spring chicken, five-way beets salad, and Basque-style mushrooms, so is great for people who want to remain healthy or combat diseases, although for this the Inspire support groups offer services to help people with different health issues. Rounding it all out is an impressive beverage program that leaves guests feeling jubilant on a midsummer’s night.

 

101 E Erie St, Chicago, IL, (312) 667-6796

The Conrad Chicago’s Japanese-influenced rooftop offers cool vibes, scenic sights, and pristine sushi just steps away from the Mag Mile. For 2018, the restaurant debuts lunch service with new items like wagyu and foie gras steamed buns, “California roll” nachos and a wagyu beef burger topped with kimchi, pork belly, and fried egg aioli.

 

85 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL, (312) 253-2317

Come for the sweeping views of downtown and stay for jazz-age-inspired libations and reimagined American cuisine. LondonHouse Chicago’s rooftop presents an idyllic backdrop with his explanation, making it the ideal place to snap a photo for social media or celebrate a special occasion. Chef Jacob Verstegen fuels the fun with an “American Picnic Basket” of meats, cheeses, jams, and other accouterments.

 

233 N Canal St, Chicago, IL, (312) 414-1100

Gibsons Restaurant Group’s first new concept in more than a decade is a stunning tri-level achievement situated next to the Chicago River. Steaks are predictably a highlight of the menu but don’t miss the pastas either, which are made using gold extruders. When the rooftop and patio open, guests will be able to enjoy all that and more while soaking in the towering sights.

 

205 E 18th St, Chicago, IL, (929) 263-2473

Make the work day a little more bearable by working from this South Loop café. The Spoke & Bird’s 2,500-square-foot patio is a fine stand-in for the office and guests can pass the time with a host of coffees, sandwiches, and — if they desire  — craft beers.

 

2701 S Eleanor St, Chicago, IL, (312) 724-8811

It’s a known fact that hot dogs and burgers are best enjoyed outdoors. That’s why eaters should take full advantage of al fresco season and try Kevin Hickey’s elevated comfort foods on the backyard patio. His signature dog, made from beef and duck fat, is dragged through a garden of Chicago-style toppings while the hamburger sandwich features Brun-uusto cheese and dijonnaise on rye bread.

 

960 W 31st St, Chicago, IL, (773) 890-0588

Sausages topped with “kraut chi,” housemade pierogis, and kimchi poutine are just a few of the delectable fusion offerings at this Bridgeport eatery. The Korean-Polish street fare is a perfect companion to the brews found next door at Maria’s Packaged Goods and patrons can take pleasure in both on the back patio.