From accommodating large groups and four-legged family members to meeting diverse tastes, there have never been so many options for the best Chicago outdoor dining. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget you’re even still in the city with lush greenery and splashes of color transporting you from the Loop to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and the coast of Peru.
Shareable plates abound from the south to the north side of the city—think inventive Mexican fare in Pilsen and bold Peruvian fusion flavors in the West Loop. Enjoy coastal-inspired Italian food at a riverfront patio in River North. Head to a waterfront, pet-friendly garden terrace at a pizza spot in Streeterville. Visit a family-favorite tavern with lawn games at Navy Pier.
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For riverwalk views with European vibes — reserve Pizzeria Portofino (River North)
Head to Pizza Portofino’s expansive, covered patio for a taste of the Italian Riviera along the Chicago River. The restaurant’s Italian, coastal-inspired menu features 10 signature pizzas, an array of shareable antipasti, and fresh takes on classic seafood dishes—think Mediterranean branzino and Bar Harbor mussels. The dishes match the space’s breezy feel, complete with hanging greenery and twinkling lights.
For the best waterfront garden vibes — dine at Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company (Streeterville)
A trip to Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company’s pet-friendly patio feels like stepping into a secret garden. Nestled in the Streeterville neighborhood, this waterfront spot boasts one of the city’s most acclaimed thin-crust pizzas. Dig into a duck prosciutto or roasted vegetable pie against a backdrop of lush greenery, shady trees, and colorful flowers—and forget you’re in a bustling city.
For a lively group trip to the South Side in one of the best Chicago outdoor dining spots — check out Pilsen Yards (Pilsen)
Head to Pilsen Yards on Chicago’s South Side for reimagined traditional Mexican dishes and an oasis-like atmosphere that transitions seamlessly from indoors to out. From tacos arabe to vegetarian enchiladas and decadent sweets including crepas de cajeta and drunken tres leches soaked in rum and mezcal, this spot is ideal for lingering with a large group.
For a romantic outdoor dining experience — choose Aba (Fulton Market)
One of the most transportive outdoor dining spaces in Chicago belongs to Fulton Market’s Aba. Surrounded by trees and natural vines with a pergola and oversize umbrellas, the restaurant’s lush patio provides an ideal ambiance for enjoying shareable Mediterranean plates like crispy short rib hummus served with house-made pita and shawarma-spiced skirt steak frites. This modern, Mediterranean restaurant is also a must-book spot for happy hour and celebratory occasions.
For a family-friendly Chicago institution — book Harry Caray’s Tavern (Navy Pier)
Harry Caray’s Tavern is located near the main entrance to Navy Pier. This family-friendly favorite is where you go for casual American fare like steak sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, and cheeseburgers with a side of local history. A table on the lively patio is great for people-watching and socializing, whether taking in activity on the pier or watching fellow patrons indulge in backyard games.
For upscale dining on the Chicago River — reserve a table at RPM Seafood (River North)
Located along the Chicago River, RPM Seafood is a destination for a fancy seafood-forward meal. Choose from the petite or grand seafood tower brimming with prawns, Alaskan king crab legs, and East and West Coast oysters while basking in the sun on the expansive patio or more intimate, second-floor terrace seating. Pair your meal with timeless cocktails like martinis and spritzes.
For rooftop views and shareable plates — grab a table at Cabra (West Loop)
Located at the top of the Hoxton Hotel in West Loop, Cabra highlights Peruvian fusion dishes and creative cocktails. Dig into a variety of Latin-inspired shared plates like herby, marinated ceviches and rich goat empanadas in a bright and airy space, complete with a refreshing rooftop pool. Drinks like pisco sours and smoky mezcal-based cocktails keep the party going well into the early morning.
To bring your dog along for a night out — book the patio at Avli (River North)
The spirit and hospitality of Greece are on full display at Avli in River North. The heated, dog-friendly patio features tables dressed with crisp white linens and pink bougainvillea. You’re here for traditional spreads, hot and cold mezze, and platters of Greek favorites like lamp chops and seafood orzo. Greek wines and botanical cocktails—including inventive, spirit-free drinks like a fig-forward take on the classic manhattan—round out the menu.
For shareable Asian fusion plates — book the patio at Mott Street (Noble Square/Bucktown)
Curiosity and whimsy are key ingredients to Mott Street’s spin on Asian cuisine. Chef Edward Kim’s menu starring the likes of pan-seared jackfruit bulgogi, crispy tofu, and fire chicken draw from his Korean American heritage and late-night street market favorites. Don’t miss the famous burger—only available until 7 p.m. (unless you’re at the bar), and the sprawling, pet-friendly patio adorned with twinkling lights and hanging greenery.
For Instagrammable ambiance and backyard fun in one of the best Chicago outdoor dining spots — try Homeslice | Pizza + Pub (Lincoln Park)
For fun and games in all seasons, head to Homeslice | Pizza + Pub in Lincoln Park. Ideal for chill weekday hangs and weekend brunches, meals here feel like a pizza party in your cool friend’s loft space. Enjoy tavern-style pizza like classic pepperoni and more innovative pies like crispy goat cheese and fig jam on the enclosed patio decked with colorful lights and greenery galore.
From dog-friendly patios serving up classic Greek fare to lively rooftop spots serving Peruvian plates and cocktails, Chicago’s outdoor dining game is strong. But you’ll still need a reservation to score a table at the most popular restaurants. OpenTable has you covered.
Book one of these top 10 outdoor dining spots in Chicago on OpenTable now.
Check out these expert guides for more Chicago dining tips:
- 10 can’t-miss brunch spots in Chicago
- 5 best MICHELIN-Starred restaurants in Chicago
- 12 standout Japanese restaurants in Chicago
- 10 top Chicago restaurants for group dining
Jessi Roti is a culture journalist exploring food and music in Chicago, IL. In 2021, Roti was named a fellow of the National Critics Institute at the Eugene O’Neill Center and has since been published in Eater and Bon Appétit, amongst others. When not writing, she works in hospitality and live event coordination and hangs out with her pup. Follow her on Instagram.
