Where to dine and drink outside in Chicago this spring

Spring temperatures are finally here in Chicago, and restaurants are opening their patios for the season across the city. Check out these outdoor dining destinations for the perfect patio experience.

Cindy’s Rooftop at the Chicago Athletic Association

12 S Michigan Ave

Situated beneath a glass atrium atop the Chicago Athletic Association, Cindy’s offers a patio dining experience like no other. The open atrium provides expansive views of Lake Michigan and Millennium Park. Head Chef Kaleena Bliss curates a set of menus for each meal time, emphasizing the freshest seasonal produce and seafood. Join Cindy’s for Brunch, midday bites, drinks, or a relaxing dinner. Enjoy favorites like oysters, Salmon Carpaccio, fried Branzino, and other mouth-watering dishes. Visit Cindy’s official site for dining hours, reservations, and other information.

Terrace 16

Trump Tower, 401 N Wabash Avenue, 16th Floor

Terrace 16 at Trump Tower is home to one of Chicago’s best rooftop patios, overlooking the Chicago River and some of the city’s finest architecture. Relax on comfortable cushioned seats and enjoy sweeping city views while dining on fine seafood, steak, brunch plates specials, and cocktails. With over 200 seats and several seating options, Terrace 16 is the perfect destination for a larger party or an intimate dining occasion.

London House

85 East Wacker Drive

London House Chicago has one of the city's most spectacular rooftop dining experiences, with unmatched views of the Magnificent Mile and Chicago River. London House's 21 floor patio restaurant features creative spins on New American fare. Stop by for a relaxing weekend brunch or a romantic dinner, with the Chicago skyline as the backdrop.

IO Godfrey

127 W Huron St

Head to IO Godfrey at the Godfrey Hotel in River North for a luxury patio dining experience this spring. IO Godfrey’s rooftop patio features comfortable couch seating perfect for lounging with a large group. With an overhead glass atrium, guests can get the outdoor dining experience in rain or shine. Enjoy refreshing summer cocktails, fresh sushi, and shareable small plates while soaking up the sun.

Celeste

111 W Hubbard St

Celeste in River North offers a year-round outdoor experience with its fourth-floor outdoor terrace. Decorated with ornate Victorian furniture, lush tropical plant life, and vine-draped brick walls, the garden space is an intimate oasis for unwinding with a cocktail or a glass of wine.

Bar Siena

832 West Randolph Street

At Bar Siena in the West Loop, guests can enjoy authentic Italian fare and drinks on a vibrant, pet-friendly patio. Bar Siena is open daily and offers a special weekend brunch. Enjoy menu highlights like fresh oysters, handmade pastas, and artisanal pizzas. Bar Siena also offers a special dog-friendly menu featuring treats fit for four-legged friends. A portion of proceeds from the pet menu go towards supporting PAWS Chicago.

Bandit

Dine in the sunshine this spring at Bandit's 80-seat outdoor patio. The West Town restaurant features a chef-driven menu of casual American favorites, like Nashville hot chicken tenders, shrimp tacos, and Bandit's signature "Mozzarella Thiccs". Bandit's also got a long list of craft cocktails, local beers, and creative shots to pair with each meal. 

Chef Art Smith's Reunion at Navy Pier

Chef Art Smith's Reunion at Navy Pier is the prime spot to enjoy old fashioned comfort food and lakefront views this summer. Reunion boasts a bright and airy 200 seat patio with gorgeous greenery and wooden accents. Dine on southern-inspired dishes like Chef Art's famous fried chicken and enjoy a selection of refreshing cocktails. Reunion offers lunch and dinner service, a lively weekend brunch, and a fun-filled daily happy hour.

Nisos Prime + Prime Bar

164 E. Grand Ave.

Nisos Prime and Prime Bar in Fulton Market is Chicago's go-to spot for Mediterranean-inspired alfresco dining. With a 40-seat seasonal patio, and an extensive menu designed for sharing and tasting, Nisos Prime and Prime Bar are the perfect destination for a spring social gathering. 

Hampton Social

The Hampton Social in Streeterville is where the energy of summer comes to life. Located just off Michigan Avenue, the Hampton Social boasts a gorgeous multi-section dining space with its "Rosé All Day" lounge, vibrant bar area, ourdoor terrace, and private party spaces. With so many options to choose from, the Hampton Social is the perfect spot for a date, a brunch get together, or any celebration.

Cabana Club at Cafe Robey

1600 N Milwaukee Ave

Reopening on May 1, Cabana Club at The Robey Hotel in Wicker Park is the perfect spot to kick off summer in Chicago. Enjoy breathtaking city views from the Robey Rooftop while lounging by the pool. Sip classic cocktails like pina coladas and margaritas and snack on delicious shareable plates.

Upstairs at The Gwen

521 N Rush St 5th Floor

Upstairs at the Gwen features an art-deco-inspired terrace with spectacular skyline vistas, all-day dining, and handcrafted drinks. Located atop The Gwen Hotel in River North, Upstairs The Gwen offers a fabulous weekend brunch, as well as daily lunch and dinner options. Enjoy elevated new American and global fare including charcuterie spreads, steak and seafood options, and a long list of cocktails, wines, and craft beers.

Sunda River North

110 W Illinois

Sunda River North is Chicago’s premier New Asian dining destination, highlighting cuisine from China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. The award-winning restaurant features a lively-dog-friendly patio for the spring and summer months, Relax amidst robust floral arrangements and greenery while sampling the freshest sushi, dim sum, and noodle dishes, or try something new with Sunda’s signature Kamayan feast.

The Goddess and Grocer Fulton Market

911 W Randolph

The Goddess and Grocer’s Fulton Market outpost features a beautiful dog-friendly patio along the Randolph Street strip. Stop by with a group, a friend, or a pup, for healthy and delicious all-day dining options. The Goddess and Grocer’s menu includes comfort foods like wraps, bowls, sandwiches, and freshly baked desserts.