Rating Flatwater's outdoor eating space

321 N Clark St (312-644-0283)

You’ve never truly appreciated the riverside skyline until you’ve seen it from this lounge’s angle. Look up, and the buildings tower above you, casting you in their silver light. Look down, and you’ll see that same view captured in the river’s reflection. Clearly, this is the reason people flock here after work—and why, if you show up any time after 5pm, sitting outdoors will require a wait. Is the wait worth it? Well, with the entire restaurant open to the patio, sitting indoors isn’t necessarily unpleasant. But if you can snag a spot on the patio to stand, you’ll soon forget all about wanting a seat.

FOOD 6 Basic lounge fare, done slightly better than average
DRINKS 5 Our request for a French 75 was met with confusion, but the wine list is fine.
CROWD 5 Businessmen, businesswomen and a few cougars (don’t worry, they’re harmless)
VIEW 10 Impeccable
SPACE 8 See “view”
TOTAL TOTAL