The sun is peaking out, the city looks alot more green and the temperatures are rising. That means it’s time for Dining Al Fresco! Having a few drinks and a good meal outdoors is what makes for great times and memories, and it’s hard to find a better city than Chicago for outdoor dining.
So many great restaurants, bars and lounges to choose from with scenic patio views, haute cuisine, excellent wine lists and craft cocktails. I’ve decided to highlight some of my favorites on or within walking distance of the Magnificent Mile:
The Purple Pig. Just set to open on a large patio overlooking Illinois Street and Michigan Avenue, this self-proclaimed “Cheese, Swine & Wine” spot is a hit. Many small plates including sardines, cured meats, smears and pork are spattered on the menu and great for sharing. Wash it down with one of their craft beer selections or pick something from their wine list. You just can’t go wrong!
NoMi Garden. Sitting seven floors above Michigan Ave., it’s the ideal shopper’s stop. Water Tower Place and Mag Mile storefronts sit just below this relaxing escape of sweeping views and lush landscaping. One of the best spots in Chicago to share small plates and a glass of vino.
Chicago Riverwalk. One of the best vantage points of towering buildings, architechture and the Chicago River is on our Riverwalk. It opens May 31st and features great seating and even better dining: Cyrano’s Cafe & Wine Bar, Friendship on the River, Lagniappe Cajun Creole Joynt and O’Brien’s Riverwalk Cafe.
Peninsula Shanghai Terrace. Looking for scenery overlooking Michigan Ave in posh surroundings and a little Dim Sum to boot? Make your way to this Gold Coast hideaway in the Peninsula Hotel.
Riva. Head to Navy Pier and enjoy the best views of Lake Michigan, the Ferris Wheel and some great steak and seafood. You might even catch some fireworks at Phil Stefani Signature Restaurant.
C-View. Located on the 29th floor of the Affinia Hotel, this Marcus Samuelsson joint is hard to overlook. Enjoy their wine list, cocktails and bar menu while overlooking the best of Chicago’s views.
They are just a few of what Chicago has to offer, and be sure to also try RL Restaurant and Bistro 110. Dining in Chicago can be so adventurous and relaxing at the same time.
We aren’t shying away from drink choices as I have a few recommendations for spring and summer as well.
The temperature is a bit cooler in the spring (between 45-75 degree F), so beer with weight like IPAs or Bocks are good, and both red and white wines can be enjoyed. Anything like from Sauvignon Blanc to Chardonnay works well, while light to medium reds like Pinot Noir, Merlot and Grenache are good outdoor sippers. For the summer, I love Pilseners and Wheat beers, and mostly white wines like Pinot Gris/Grigio and dry Riesling, especially from Austria and Washington State.
Hope you enjoy these tips and have a great summer on the patio!
Michael Bottigliero is a wine writer and consultant with Windy City Wine Guy.
Home Photo Credit: Robert S. Donovan
