Published on 5/16/08
Published on 5/17/08
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You’ve got a staring problem—and that’s a good thing. Seriously, who could stop themselves from gaping while lounging in one of this city’s many gorgeous gardens and palatial patios? That’s why we combed Chicago for alfresco eating and drinking spots with the best views, whether they’re of lush surroundings, posh people, soaring skyscrapers, or the mind-blowingly delicious food and drinks on the table. So gawk all you want; at these joints, it’s considered polite.
| Best view of... | |
![]() | The cityscape: Tourists love gazing at those historic skyscrapers, but Chicagoans know the best way to do it: while eating and drinking. |
![]() | The food on your plate: Any patio handing out beef jerky and beer can draw a crowd, but these spots dish out truly fantastic meals. |
![]() | The big screen: Skip the multiplex this summer and catch your flicks under the stars while digging into tempting treats. |
![]() | Beautiful people: When staring at a bunch of buildings or an endless stretch of water won’t cut it, these bastions of beauty provide an eyeful. |
![]() | The action: These outdoor spots capture people-watching at its prime, whether you’re glimpsing indie rockers in Logan Square or glitterati on the Mag Mile. |
![]() | Stupid human tricks: Cargo shorts and flip-flops go hand-in-hand with chug challenges and catcalling on these otherwise pleasant patios. |
![]() | The water: Noshing next to the Chicago River used to be as appealing as eating a fish caught from its murky waters. But now dining riverside provides the ultimate summer view. |
![]() | The bottom of your glass: For you lushes who equate warm weather with imbibing a little more than usual, these patios shake up the best cocktails in town. |
![]() | 360 degrees of awesome: Great food, tasty drinks, a cool crowd, a gorgeous space…these spots prove you can have it all. |
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