Dine Chicago Streets: Clark Street
Chicago is a city that truly comes alive during the summertime…but fall is here and winter is coming up quick! In an effort to extend outdoor dining this year, Chicago neighborhoods are blocking off sections of popular streets to give the restaurants and bars there more room. Given social distancing guidelines, these expanded outdoor areas are hugely helpful for local restaurants, and can make a true impact on their bottom line. They also give diners more opportunities to support their favorites spots!
One of the streets with these new dining options is Clark Street in River North, between Grand and Kinzie Streets, which will be closed to serve diners in the streets. It’s not a huge stretch of road, but the Chicago food world is making the most of it! If you’re planning a visit to Clark Street, here are some spots to check out for al fresco dining:
Beatrix {519 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.284.1377}: Though Beatrix is often known for it’s amazing brunch food and pastries, it’s also a great happy hour and dinner spot as well! From Miso-Caramel Salmon and Slow-Braised Short Rib to Tuna Crudo and Crispy Kale Salad, their dinner options are just as good as their morning menus. Don’t forget that!
Hubbard Inn {110 West Hubbard Street, Chicago; 312.273.6207}: A mainstay in the River North area, Hubbard Inn got an interior face lift at the at the start of this year. Now, they have seasonal menus and delicious dishes like Fried Chicken Tacos to go with the new design. Whether you’re looking for an intimate date night, a table for a group of friends, or restaurant that’s open late, Hubbard Inn is your go-to option!
Firecakes Donuts {68 West Hubbard Street, Chicago; 312.329.6500}: Nothing says “weekend vibes” like donuts! They’re the perfect sweet start to any day, and Firecakes has amazing offerings that are unique just to them. Plus, they’re in our 2020/2021 Culinary Guide so you can get a deal on all your favorites if you purchase the guide now.
LYFE Kitchen {413 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.836.5933}: You can eat healthier and still enjoy all that the Chicago food world has to offer! LYFE Kitchen has all day smoothies, coffee, salads, bar bites, and more…and all of them have fresh, health-focused ingredients. So you can dig in, guilt-free.
Mercadito
Mercadito {110 West Kinzie Street, Chicago; 312.329.9555}: Mercadito has been a diner’s choice for years in Chicago thanks to the authentic Mexican cuisine and craft cocktails from Chef Patricio Sandoval. They’re now offering happy hour specials, as well as their usually amazing menus, to bring in more diners. They need our support now more than ever, so run (don’t walk) there for a Pajaro Loco cocktail made with Casamigos Blanco, campari, pineapple, and a rum fire boat.
Epic Burger {407 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.239.0110}: Order up for delicious burgers! Epic Burger started in Chicago in 2008 and has been serving up burgers, snacks and shakes ever since. They also give back to the city alongside FEED Chicago! So many reasons to support them the next time you’re dining out.
RPM Steak {66 West Kinzie Street, Chicago; 312.284.4990}: Steak under the stars? Sign us up! We have always been known as a steak city, and RPM Steak proves exactly why. They take the utmost pride and care in their cuisine, and you’ll want to savor every bite.
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor