Last Hurrah Patios for Chicago Summer: River North + Gold Coast Edition
It’s that time of year again! The wind is about to start getting brisker, leaves will ever so slightly change colors and the signs of summer are slowly beginning to fade away (we get it, NOT what you want to hear). But with fall beginning to rear its head, it’s time for you to fit all of your leftover summer plans into these final weeks. Follow along as we run through our favorite patio spots for your final summer hurrah!
River Roast {315 North La Salle Street, Chicago; 312.822.0100}
Views of the Chicago River, protein-packed picks and delicious sips are abundant at this waterside locale. River Roast spotlights various dishes like Roasted Halibut T-Bone served with heirloom tomato chutney as well as West Coast Oysters on the Half-Shell and other favorites. Come to take in the Chicago riverfront before it gets too icy out to enjoy!
Siena Tavern {51 West Kinzie Street, Chicago; 312.595.1322}
The beloved patio at Siena Tavern is known for its centralized River North location (perfect for people watching) and classic Italian fare. Pop in after your work week and grab a bite to eat — the Truffle Mushroom pizza with roasted wild mushrooms, garlic cream, mozzarella and white truffle oil is at the top of our list for fall!
via The Peninsula
Z Bar at The Peninsula {108 East Superior Street, Chicago; 312.573.6888}
An elevated beauty, Z Bar at The Peninsula offers some of the best views in the city. Dine above the city as you bite into the Adobo Glazed Chicken Wings with cucumber, jalapeno and mint salsa and fried plantains or Z Bar Classic Sliders topped with iceberg lettuce, tomato, pickle and aged cheddar.
Tanta {118 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312.222.9700}
Bright orange umbrellas and twinkle lights surround you at this Peru-inspired space that’s one of our favorite Chicago rooftops. Stop by for their famous pisco sours and stay for the different types of empanadas filled with your choice of chicken, brisket, sweet corn and more. You’ll almost forget you’re in the Midwest!
via RPM Seafood
RPM Seafood {317 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.900.9035}
You say RPM anything, and we say “Yes, please!” Enjoy some of the top seafood in the city with dishes like Red Curry Lobster with green papaya and candied pecans and Miso Black Cod with Wasabi and togarashi. Their Sommelier Experience is also a dream for wine-lovers!
Pizzeria Portofino {317 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.900.9018}
Italian coastal vibes meet pretty city views at Pizzeria Portofino. Dine at their riverfront location and choose from menu items like Meatball and Ricotta Pizza and Prosciutto San Daniele with focaccia, whipped ricotta and orange marmalade. This is the PERFECT “hang on to summer” date spot!
City Winery Riverwalk Wine Garden {11 West Riverwalk South, Chicago; 312.229.5593}
House-made wine with sweeping views? Count us in! Situated right on the Chicago River, City Winery’s riverfront venue offers their full menu, including your pick of esteemed wines, plus dishes like Lobster Rolls, Watermelon Salad and Spicy Shrimp Tacos.
The Bellevue {1031 North Rush Street, Chicago; 312.888.8900}
A new addition to the Gold Coast, this hot spot already has a bustling patio and fun atmosphere after only being open a few months. Enjoy fire dishes such as Pan Seared Walleye and Langostino Mac and Cheese while you bask in the sunshine.
NoMI Garden {800 Michigan Avenue, Seventh Floor, Chicago; 312.239.4030}
This breezy and beautiful rooftop bar serving American fare offers guests everything from sushi to Lobster Tortellini in a truly relaxing setting. The rooftop is set in the Park Hyatt, high above the bustle of downtown Chicago.
Quartino {626 North State Street, Chicago; 312.698.5000}
Take a trip to Italy, right on State Street. This destination-worthy spot has a patio embellished with bright blue tables and flowers galore. Snack on various Salumeria tasting items and Italian Artisan Bread as you wait for the main course. Our favorites? Orecchiette with fennel-sausage ragu and the Beef Short Rib with salsa verde.
By Madison Freeman | Special Correspondent