8 Picks for Outdoor Dining in Chicago

If you enjoy reading about our picks for the best outdoor dining in Chicago, then visit our blog to get more insightful facts, recommendations and history about Chicago.

– By Lindsay McNaught

 

What’s not to love about summer in Chicago? As the weather warms up, the city comes alive with iconic neighborhood staples offering inviting outdoor patios perfect for soaking up the sun. Whether it’s a classic rooftop bar, a cozy beer garden, or a laid-back restaurant patio, these spots are the perfect places to enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and the best of summer vibes. With the city’s vibrant outdoor dining scene, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the sunshine and a delicious meal with friends.

Check out our top picks for outdoor dining in Chicago:

1. 5 Rabanitos
2. Chef’s Special Cocktail Bar
3. Frontier
4. Green Street Smoked Meats
5. Duck Inn
6. Mott Street
7. Big Star
8. Parson’s Chicken & Fish

With more and more restaurants reopening and offering outdoor dining in Chicago, the city’s sidewalks are bursting with activity once again. But with so many delicious options, which do you choose? Here are eight of our team’s favorite restaurants that feature dining al fresco:

1. 5 Rabanitos 

As far as outdoor dining in Chicago goes, 5 Rabanitos is hard to beat. Just steps from the 18th Street Pink Line Stop, this Pilsen eatery serves authentic Mexican cuisine at lunch and dinner. The restaurant’s patio on Wood Street sits just across the sidewalk from a beautiful mural painted on the building’s exterior.  

2. Chef’s Special Cocktail Bar

 The menu features well-crafted cocktails and delicious Chinese cuisine from the team behind Giant. For those looking for outdoor dining in Chicago that involves eating spicy Chinese food and specialty cocktails, then Chef’s Special is your spot.

3. Frontier 

Serving up Southern comfort food, whole animals and large format meals, Frontier certainly offers a dining experience not found at other Chicago restaurants.  Frontier is a Black-owned business and a James Beard Award Semi-Finalist. This same team also runs Ina Mae Tavern & Packed Goods, another Wicker Park restaurant serving New Orleans-inspired dishes with outdoor seating.

4. Green Street Smoked Meats

Green Street is located down a brick, paved alley in the heart of the West Loop and also has a spacious indoor seating area with a full bar. Their smoked meats, sides, and cocktail offerings are amazing — you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

5. Duck Inn 

Tucked between Pilsen and Bridgeport, this cozy tavern has a quaint patio and delicious food. Their specialties are rotisserie duck and Duck Inn dogs – their take on a classic Chicago hot dog. Both are excellent choices, depending on what you’re in the mood for. You can also find Duck Inn Dogs at TimeOut Market.

6. Mott Street 

Mott Street, an Asian-fusion restaurant, consistently delivers unique and flavorful dishes that keep diners coming back for more. The spacious patio and lively scene offers the perfect space for enjoying a meal in the fresh air. All types of groups can comfortably gather at large tables, making it ideal for a relaxed dining experience. Mott Street also offers brunch on the weekends and catering.

7. Big Star

Big Star in Wicker Park remains a favorite among locals, and it’s no surprise why—it’s the original location and a beloved spot. They also have locations in Wrigleyville and West Town. Whether you’re enjoying a refreshing margarita on a sunny day or indulging in their tasty tacos, it’s a perfect spot to unwind. Plus, dogs are welcome (on leashes, of course) to join the fun. Big Star also has a convenient to-go window at the Wicker Park location, making it easy to grab your favorite dishes and enjoy them wherever you like.

8. Parson’s Chicken & Fish 

All three Parson’s locations feature spacious patios with large picnic tables, perfect for enjoying delicious comfort food like fried chicken, hushpuppies, and mac and cheese. And the best part? Dogs are welcome on the patios, so bring your furry friend along to enjoy the vibes. While Parson’s delivers if you prefer to dine at home, the food is just as amazing wherever you enjoy it—whether you’re lounging on the patio or relaxing on the couch. We’ve ordered plenty of hot chicken sandwiches over the years, and they’re always a hit!

Let’s continue to support our community and enjoy outdoor dining in Chicago while the weather cooperates.

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