The best outdoor restaurants and patios in Chicago right now

What is it? A charming garden hideaway at one of Chicago's best Italian spots.

Why we love it: Inside the ivy-covered walls of this Italian oasis, it’s as lush and romantic as a fairy-tale forest. It’s hard to complain about the light, simple Italian dishes, but the food doesn’t stand a chance against the perfectly balanced setting, bathed in warm, golden light. Antipasti and something from the enormous, reasonably priced Italian wine list is all you need for a perfect summer evening.

Time Out tip: The pastas are standouts, especially the pappardelle con cinghiale.

Address: 464 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60642

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-2:30pm, 5-9pm; Fri 11am-2:30pm, 5-9:30pm; Sat 4-9:30pm; Sun 4-9pm

What is it? One of Chicago's busiest patios.

Why we love it: When you say the words "restaurant patio" to a longtime Chicagoan, the packed scene in front of Wicker Park taqueria Big Star probably comes to mind. It's a classic for a reason—the al pastor tacos are delicious, the margaritas arrive by the pitcher and there's enough chips and salsa for everyone to get their fill. And if the Wicker Park location is at capacity, you can try your luck at the outpost in Wrigleyville.

Time Out tip: If there's a wait, put your name down and head over to Nick's Beer Garden for a drink.

Address: 1531 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11:30am-10pm; Fri 11:30am-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm

What is it? A spacious patio made for fried chicken and frozen drinks.

Why we love it: Chicagoans have two Parson's to choose from: The original location in Logan Square and an outpost in Lincoln Park. Ordering a cocktail is practically a requirement, and you'll need some snacks to be able to drink more than one. The hush puppies are your best bet, and the grilled chicken is just as good as the fried (if you can believe it).

Time Out tip: The Negroni slushy is the house specialty for a reason. Trust us and order one.

Address: 2952 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 11am-10pm; Fri, Sat 11am-11pm

What is it? A lush and expansive patio in River West.

Why we love it: The Dawson's massive outdoor space, with a bar, tables, greenery and high walls, makes you feel like you’re far away from the busy corner next to the Grand Blue Line stop. Order up dinner, then stay for rounds of cocktails, including an array of classics plus seasonal drinks made with gin, tequila and mezcal.

Time Out tip: Stop by during weekday happy hour from 4 to 6pm for $10 cocktails and bites like brisket tacos and asada fries.

Address: 730 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Tue, Wed 4-9pm; Thu 4-10pm; Fri 4-11pm; Sat 10:30am-11pm; Sun 10:30am-9pm

What is it? Chicago's most glamorous patio.

Why we love it: Chef Joe Flamm pays tribute to classic steakhouses of the 1950s while also offering some new twists on old indulgences with a menu featuring shellfish towers and premium steaks. Though the dining room also embodies the classic Hollywood aesthetic, with chandeliers hanging over silvery pod-like booths, the year-round atrium brings the right amount of class to outdoor dining. It features a 20-seat bar, lush greenery, luxe upholstry, string lights and an 11-foot-tall wooden pergola.

Time Out tip: Enjoy half-priced martinis and select bottles of wines alongside $1.50 oysters during happy hour (Mon-Fri 4:30-6:30pm; Sat, Sun 2-4:30pm).

Address: 817 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 4:30-10pm; Sat, Sun 2-10pm

What is it? A boho-themed dining space along the Chicago River.

Why we love it: Upon entering this breathtaking riverfront oasis, you might catch yourself wondering if you've been transported to a faraway destination. An offshoot of the popular West Town dining destination by the same name, Beatnik on the River draws inspiration from the bohemian freethinkers of the '50s and '60s, offering dishes and drinks from around the globe. The best tables in the house are on the terrace, which sits along the Chicago River and is outfitted with colorful tile, Indonesian daybeds and fringe-lined umbrellas. Order a glass of bubbly and stay a while. 

Time Out tip: Come for golden hour—the riverfront setting is made for watching the sunset.

Address: 180 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

Opening hours: Mon 11am-11pm; Tue-Fri 11am-midnight; Sat 10am-midnight; Sun 10am-11pm

What is it? A lovely beer garden.

Why we love it: Named for an Irish immigrant who served as the General Superintendent of Chicago's police force at the turn of the 20th century, this Avondale spot is known for its massive patio and Irish staples like fish and chips and steak and Guinness pie. Head for the back when it’s warm out, and get in the spirit with a pint of ale.

Time Out tip: The all-you-care-to-eat Sunday brunch buffet offers some of the restaurant's most popular items for $32 per person.

Address: 3471 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 4-11pm; Fri 4pm-1am; Sat noon-1am; Sun 10am-11pm

What is it? A neighborhood patio tucked behind a gastro-tavern on a quiet Bridgeport street.

Why we love it: If there's anything better than eating a gourmet Chicago-style duck fat dog on a lush, hidden patio in Bridgeport, we have yet to find it. Come warm weather, the Duck Inn's tree-lined garden transforms into an intimate destination for brunch and dinner.

Time Out tip: Call ahead to preorder the signature rotisserie duck, as only a limited number are available each day.

Address: 2701 S Eleanor St, Chicago, IL 60608

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5-10pm; Fri 5-11pm; Sat 10:30am-2:30pm, 5-11pm; Sun 10:30am-10pm

What is it? A cozy, greenery-filled patio.

Why we love it: This popular West Town spot brings in the crowds with creative Asian-inspired bites—the cabbage stuffed with pork is a must—and one of the best burgers in Chicago. Come patio season, the experience somehow gets even better thanks to a lush outdoor space that invites guests to order another round and hang out a while.

Time Out tip: The popular burger is only available until 7pm, but you can order it all night at the bar.

Address: 1401 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5-9pm; Fri 5-10pm; Sat 10am-2pm, 4:30-10pm; Sun 10am-2pm, 4:30-9pm

What is it? A Logan Square patio with picnic tables, string lights and a laid-back neighborhood vibe.

Why we love it: Sporting rustic brick walls, a trio of foeders (giant wooden barrels used to age beer) looming over the dining area and a spacious bar, Bungalow tries to create a welcoming environment for guests to sample Middle Brow's experimental brews. In the morning, bagels topped with cream cheese and breakfast sandwiches are the main attraction, served alongside coffee and beer. Thin crust pizzas piled with toppings fill tables in the evening, with the action spilling out onto the patio when the weather cooperates. 

Time Out tip: Tavern-style pizzas are offered on Tuesdays, and they're worth planning around.

Address: 2840 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Tue-Fri 8am-10pm; Sat 9am-10pm; Sun 9am-9pm

What is it? A massive West Loop patio with colorful decor, games and a playful atmosphere.

Why we love it: Set among a pile of shipping containers next to West Loop event space City Hall, Recess bills itself as one of the city's largest patios, complete with a multi-level set-up and multiple bars. Once you have a table, there's a ton of bar food to choose between, from loaded tater tots to buffalo chicken rolls to cheeseburger sliders. And of course, you'll find plenty of cocktails (with or without CBD), local brews and rosé during a long afternoon or a late night.

Time Out tip: If you're looking for a spot to catch the game, Recess has plenty of screens and lively crowds.

Address: 838 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60642

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 4pm-midnight; Thu, Fri 4pm-2am; Sat 11am-3am; Sun 11am-10pm

What is it? Lettuce Entertain You's breezy riverside pizzeria.

Why we love it: This all-day concept from Lettuce Entertain You serves lunch and dinner, with a menu centered around hand-stretched pizzas, artisanal pastas and grilled seafood. Second only to the food is the sizable outdoor terrace, which hugs the Chicago River and offers breathtaking views of the city. The all-season patio features retractable sidewalls and a paneled roof that opens and closes to provide shelter from the cold and the rain. Grab a spritz and take it all in.

Time Out tip: This is one of the hottest patios in town so reservations are a must.

Address: 317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 11am-9pm; Fri, Sat 11am-9:30pm

What is it? A Bridgeport favorite for Korean-Polish street fare.

Why we love it: Polish and Korean fusion purveyor Kimski has expansive outdoor seating options, with tables along the side of the building as well as a backyard patio. This Bridgeport spot always has the latest brews from Marz on tap—plus plenty of other interesting local beers to pair with sausages, pierogis and jjajangmyeon.

Time Out tip: Head next door to Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar for a drink afterwards.

Address: 960 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608

Opening hours: Wed-Sat 5-10pm; Sun 3-8pm

What is it? A heated, all-season patio in Pilsen.

Why we love it: Named after a bygone lumberyard in the area, the music-fueled Pilsen Yards specializes in tacos and other Mexican eats plus a long list of cocktails and beer. There's a pair of outdoor spaces for guests to enjoy—a covered section with wooden beams overhead and another open-air patio that's festooned with glowing lights. There are heaters over nearly every table, heated floors and pergolas in the open-air section so you can have a warm seat year-round.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the Alderman, a hidden speakeasy tucked inside Pilsen Yards.

Address: 1163 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 3-10pm; Fri 3-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm

What is it? A spacious sidewalk patio where Mexican-inspired dishes take center stage.

Why we love it: You'll hardly notice you're seated on the bustling corner of Superior and State Streets when food from chef Carlos Gaytán starts arriving at your table on Tzuco’s all-season covered patio. Cool off with an order of tuna ceviche before digging into heartier entrees like the whole fried red snapper served with pickled coleslaw, peanut-chipotle aioli, salsa verde and handmade tortillas. Make your time outdoors last with dessert—the corn ice cream with toffee and caramelized popcorn is an instant classic.

Time Out tip: Bring a group. The menu is best enjoyed family-style, so order a few dishes to share.

Address: 720 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 4-9pm; Thu 4-10pm; Fri 4-11pm; Sat 10am-2pm, 4-11pm; Sun 10am-2pm, 4-9pm

What is it? A casual, spacious patio for New York-style slices.

Why we love it: A Heisler Hospitality restaurant, Pizza Lobo features grab-and-go 'za and a lengthy bar menu plus a 4,000-square-foot patio. The concept was honed over the course of several years in the kitchen of Lone Wolf, with different ideas revolving around a classic New York-style crust. Today, the menu features a roster of top-notch pies garnished with everything from pickled cherry peppers and vodka sauce to crispy pancetta and roasted mushrooms, best enjoyed on Pizza Lobo's outdoor spaces in Logan Square, Andersonville and West Loop.

Time Out tip: Feel free to bring your furry BFF—the patio is dog-friendly.

Address: 3000 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Opening hours: Daily noon-midnight

What is it? A lodge-themed destination known for meaty feasts and an all-season patio. 

Why we love it: The sprawling indoor-outdoor terrace at Frontier beckons from Milwaukee Avenue, luring diners in with trays of just-shucked oysters and the scent of crispy fried chicken sandwiches. The summer-ready cocktails and ice-cold bottles of Miller Lite don't hurt either.

Time Out tip: Gather a large group for the whole-animal experience, featuring options like goat, wild boar and alligator.

Address: 1072 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

Opening hours: Thu 3-10pm; Fri 2-11pm; Sat 3-11pm

What is it?  A Hyde Park sidewalk patio perfect for people-watching over Southern comfort food.

Why we love it: The interior dining room at Virtue is a special place, thanks in no small part to the art chef-owner Erick Williams has curated for the space. But come summertime, the sidewalk patio offers diners some fresh air while they feast on chicken- and sausage-studded gumbo, blackened catfish atop Carolina gold rice, and banana pudding with Nilla wafers and cool whip.

Time Out tip: Cap off your meal with a nightcap at Williams' nearby bar, Cantina Rosa.

Address: 1462 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615

Opening hours: Tue-Thu, Sun 4-9pm; Fri, Sat 4-10pm

What is it? A Navy Pier patio with front-row views of Lake Michigan.

Why we love it: Let’s face it, locals don’t have much reason to visit Navy Pier. But if you do find yourself there, you might as well sit down to a good meal. Celebrity chef Art Smith’s waterfront restaurant delivers comforting Southern fare, including decadent mac and cheese, Smith's famous fried chicken and tantalizing hummingbird cake. On a nice day, grab a spot on the 200-seat patio and take in views of the skyline and lake as you dine.

Time Out tip: Visit during Navy Pier's fireworks season for a memorable show.

Address: Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri 11am-11pm; Sat 10am-midnight; Sun 10am-10pm

What is it? A scenic riverfront patio with dramatic views of the downtown skyline.

Why we love it: Watch boats go by on the Chicago River on River Roast’s plant-lined patio, which features umbrellas to keep you shady during a hot summer day and strings of lights to add to the city’s glow at night. Feast on American fare like pork belly bites and a spicy fried chicken sandwich while sipping an Old Fashioned or Aperol spritz.

Time Out tip: Come hungry and order one of the restaurant’s famous roasts, from chicken and lamb chops to branzino.

Address: 315 N LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60654

Opening hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-9:30pm; Sat 10am-9:30pm; Sun 10am-9pm

What is it? An elevated Midwest tavern inside Theater on the Lake.

Why we love it: Situated right next to Lake Michigan and the Lakefront Trail, this restaurant inside Chicago Park District event venue Theater on the Lake offers an unparalleled backdrop. The menu features approachable Midwestern fare but the main attraction are the stunning views of the water and skyline that accompany every meal on the 80-seat patio.

Time Out tip: Lakefront Restaurant is only open for a handful of days each year, so check the calendar to find out when you can visit.

Address: Theater on the Lake, 2401 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-9pm; Sat, Sun 10am-9pm

What is it? A cozy neighborhood spot serving thoughtful, vegetable-forward cuisine.

Why we love it: This relaxed American restaurant in Ravenswood boasts a sprawling patio surrounded with plenty of lush greenery—the perfect backdrop for the bar's colorful, bird-themed cocktails, like the Hummingbird made with tequila, grapefruit liqueur and club soda. Outdoor seating can't be guaranteed, so arrive early to snag a spot and enjoy shareable bites like pork nachos and roasted mushroom flatbread.

Time Out tip: Take advantage of the weekday supper club menu, from 4:30 to 6pm, offering five family-style dishes and dessert for $35 per person.

Address: 4535 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

Opening hours: Mon-Thu noon-9pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am-10pm; Sun 11:30am-9pm

This sweet, veggie-heavy American joint in Ravenswood boasts a sprawling patio surrounded with plenty of lush greenery—the perfect backdrop for the bar's colorful, bird-themed cocktails like the Hummingbird made with tequila, grapefruit liqueur and club soda. Seating at its bar and high-top tables can’t be guaranteed with a reservation, so show up early to secure your spot to hang out while sharing a plate of pork nachos or a roasted mushroom flatbread.