Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. Bust out the SPF—it’s outdoor dining season
  3. The 12 best restaurants to dine outdoors in Chicago
editorial list heading

The 12 best restaurants to dine outdoors in Chicago

A photo of Red logo
by Lisa Shames
Updated 29 May 2024

Patio season might be on the shorter side in Chicago—but that doesn’t dampen enthusiasm for dining outside, thanks to scenic spaces that go above and beyond.

For an especially transportive meal, head to the drop-dead gorgeous garden at an Italian favorite. A spacious patio at a modern steakhouse means you get an up-close look at the Chicago River. An all-weather beer garden, complete with a retractable roof, stretches outdoor dining season at a stylish lodge-inspired restaurant.

Whether you’re craving rooftop or water views, this list has you covered. Read on for the 12 best places to dine outdoors in Chicago.

A photo of Aba - Chicago restaurant
4.8
4.8 (2633)
$50 and over
Mediterranean
West Loop
About the restaurant

With towering trees and many plants, Aba’s green dining room is just a preview of the restaurant’s beloved third-floor outdoor space. For shade, there’s a pergola and oversize umbrellas. A mix of tables, chairs, and low-slung couches add up to a rooftop lounge-like vibe as the night progresses. Celebrate scoring one of Chicago’s most sought-after outdoor seats with a glass of Old World wine and spreads (smoky garlic hummus or charred eggplant), kebabs, and hot mezze.


Top review
Matt
Dined 3 days ago
Great food! The atmosphere is a little louder, but nothing off-putting. We had a great time and everyone around us looked like they were having a great time.
A photo of Piccolo Sogno restaurant
4.7
4.7 (6965)
$30 and under
Italian
River West
About the restaurant

Piccolo Sogno means “little dream” in Italian, and its lush outdoor space more than lives up to that description. A large ivy-covered tree anchors the Italian restaurant’s backyard, decorated with twinkly lights and lush foliage. The seasonal menu from celebrated chef Tony Priolo focuses on rustic dishes like housemade sausage, black spaghetti with seafood, and prosciutto di Parma pizza. Consider a glass or two from the all-Italian wine list to extend your alfresco meal.


Top review
joeVIP
Dined 5 days ago
Truffle season...never disappoints or does Chef Tony and his team...A plus!!
A photo of The Dawson restaurant
4.4
4.4 (109)
$30 and under
American
Rockefeller Center
About the restaurant

The Dawson’s River West patio—a very popular outdoor spot—makes a killer first impression. Glass, brick, wood, and ivy accents create a magical spot in the heart of the city. Attention to detail is everywhere, from the lights in the trees to colorful flowers and a beautiful tiled floor. On the menu, expect imaginative American food like sticky duck wings and rabbit pappardelle, which pair well with warm-weather cocktails including a guava and grapefruit rosé sangria.


Top review
Tom
Dined 7 days ago
We had a wonderful Christmas lunch at the Dawson ! Tasty bites and splendid cocktails! Service was excellent as well !
A photo of Chicago Cut Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
4.8 (10010)
$50 and over
Steakhouse
River North (Chicago)
About the restaurant

Leaning more modern than traditional, this sceney River North steakhouse has attracted those who can’t get enough of dry-aged steaks and sophisticated wines—its fans include President Obama and Charles Barkley. Floor-to-ceiling windows give those dining inside a great view of the nearby Chicago River, but the restaurant’s spacious outdoor patio offers an uninterrupted look at passing boats and the iconic skyscrapers across the water. Arrive before sunset to take advantage of the stellar view.


Top review
GlennVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Chicago Cut Steakhouse is the place to be! We’ve never disappointed. The service is so personalized, and ever detail of our dining experience was paid attention to. The food is delicious and done to perfection. We also enjoyed the Festive ambiance of the Holiday Season!
A photo of Recess restaurant
4.6
4.6 (1465)
$31 to $50
American
West Loop
About the restaurant

The last thing you want while soaking in Chicago’s short but sweet summer is to waste time fighting for a patio table. To avoid that, opt for one of the West Loop’s larger outdoor dining spaces at Recess. This expansive patio has plenty of seats, from high-tops on the turf to spots inside repurposed shipping containers. Enjoy snacks, burgers, and hearty sandwiches plus refreshing cocktails, such as the Monkey Bars with whiskey and blackberry sage shrub.


Top review
Gabrielle
Dined on 30 Nov 2024
Had a lot of fun! It was our first time there and we didn’t know what to expect but it was definitely worth it! We’ll be back again for more brunch and possibly a happy hour or two.
A photo of Boka restaurant
4.8
4.8 (7170)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Lincoln Park
About the restaurant

MICHELIN-starred Boka impresses diners with playful but refined dishes from chef Lee Wolen, like black truffle roasted chicken and porcini ricotta gnudi. For the colder months, there’s a skylight patio and a preserved moss wall to bring the outside in. Once the weather warms up, the restaurant offers two charming outdoor spaces: a tree-lined back patio for peak coziness or three tables along the plant-filled entryway for top-tier people watching—ideal for a pre-Steppenwolf dinner.


Top review
Betsy
Dined 2 days ago
My boyfriend and I chose Boka as our place to celebrate Christmas and it did not disappoint! We had the 8 course tasting menu and were absolutely amazed by the creativity, flavor, texture, and variety of the dishes. Our server Augustus was warm, kind, knowledgeable and professional.
A photo of Pilsen Yards restaurant
4.7
4.7 (1597)
$30 and under
Latin American
Pilsen
About the restaurant

Pilsen Yards is known for live music, vinyl DJ sets, and a secret speakeasy-style bar (The Alderman). But you’re here for the massive patio, partially covered with exposed wood beams and overhead heaters. It features its own bar—don’t skip the on-draft sangria—plus a fire pit, responsible for excellent Latin-inspired street food like slow-roasted pork shoulder tacos served on handmade tortillas.


Top review
Angelica
Dined on 11 Dec 2024
Jeremy was a great host! He was very welcoming, the food, drinks and ambience were all great! Will return!
A photo of Frontier restaurant
4.5
4.5 (550)
$31 to $50
American
West Town
About the restaurant

Chef Brian Jupiter gets plenty of attention for his mastery of unusual meats like elk, venison, and wild boar. But Frontier also stands out for a knockout all-weather beer garden complete with a retractable roof and stone fireplace. For the ultimate outdoorsy meal, pre-order the “whole animal experience” for you and your group with options that include goat and a free-range American pig, plus plenty of tasty sides.


Top review
Jasmine
Dined 2 days ago
Always a wonderful experience! Oysters were a bit overly charred this time around but won’t hold it against them. Drinks were great! Branzino was amazing! Loved the brussel sprouts!
A photo of BLVD Steakhouse restaurant
4.4
4.4 (2911)
$50 and over
Steakhouse
West Loop
About the restaurant

With a couple of very distinct dining spaces, BLVD is almost two restaurants in one. Inside, it’s glam central with metallic finishes and shimmering chandeliers. On its full-season patio, there’s an all-out garden party vibe thanks to greenery, white linen curtains, delicate light fixtures, and an 11-foot-tall wooden pergola. No matter where you sit, you’ll have access to a sophisticated but unfussy menu from Top Chef winner Joe Flamm featuring dishes like mushroom risotto and steak frites.


Top review
Hugo
Dined 2 days ago
Enjoyed the food as well as the service which was great
A photo of Gibsons Italia restaurant
4.8
4.8 (3982)
$31 to $50
Italian
River North (Chicago)
About the restaurant

There are Chicago River views, and then there’s the view at Gibsons Italia. Take in the soaring skyscrapers and downtown’s iconic bridges when you dine at this multi-level gem. It’s hard to find a bad seat in the house with all the floor-to-ceiling windows, but the top floor has a retractable glass roof and channels a sophisticated living room, complete with leather couches. It’s a handsome backdrop for world-class steaks and Italian-accented hits like mafaldine with Neapolitan beef.


Top review
Promise
Dined 4 days ago
The experience was exquisite. Would definitely recommend
A photo of RPM Seafood restaurant
4.6
4.6 (1647)
$50 and over
Seafood
River North (Chicago)
About the restaurant

Stroll the Riverwalk and it’s hard not to stop and stare at the dramatic building that houses RPM Seafood. During the warmer months, you’ll spot the restaurant’s 2,000-square-foot terrace decked out with oversized umbrellas and wood-topped tables just inches from the water. Overflowing seafood towers, delicately grilled fish, and housemade pastas are just a few of the can’t-miss dishes at this elegant outdoor star.


Top review
EdwinVIP
Dined 2 days ago
The food is amazing every time I go! Also, the service is unmatched.
A photo of Mott Street restaurant
4.7
4.7 (1047)
$31 to $50
Central Asian
Bucktown / Wicker Park
About the restaurant

Taking inspiration from Asia’s night markets, this lively neighborhood spot offers exciting fusion food and creative cocktails in a setting that’s just as refreshing. Mott Street’s sprawling patio is adorned with twinkling lights and lots of plants and flowers hanging overhead—and even your pets are welcome here. Signature dishes include the miso-butter mushrooms, everything wings, and stuffed cabbage. Get here before 7 pm to score the restaurant’s legendary burger.


Top review
Cynthia
Dined 2 days ago
Great food. Helpful server. The shrimp noodles and butterfish were amazing. Will be back!
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo