The Best in Windy City Winter Patios
Tanta Chicago
Chicagoans are no stranger to the cold. Winter comes every year and it comes in fast with wind and chills and snow. Ohhh so much fun! But, Chicagoans are also a tough bunch. We won’t let a little bit of cold or even snow stop us from having fun and supporting our city. So, we brave the cold day in and day out, hitting patios and rooftops in all weather, all-year round. Because why not?! Restaurants need our support, and we need a great meal (and a cocktail or two) to get us through this rough season. So, to inspire your next outdoor adventure, here are some winter patios to add to your list…
Tanta {118 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312.222.9700}: You can’t travel south of the border for warmer temps, but you can dine like you’re on vacation! Experience amazing Peruvian cuisine (hello, Pisco Sours!) on the heated rooftop at Tanta. They’re open for dinner and weekend brunch, so you have plenty of opportunities to dig in to empanadas, cebiche and more.
Prime & Provisions {222 North LaSalle Street, Chicago; 312.726.7777}: Who says that “clean eating” has to be all fruits and veggies?! You can eat clean by eating All Natural USDA Premium Black Angus Beef at Prime & Provisions instead! Seriously - That counts! And you can eat clean in the great outdoors thanks to their heated patio too. So much goodness, all with one reservation!
Big Star Wicker Park {1531 North Damen Avenue., Chicago; 773.235.4039}: An old favorite, but for good reason! This Wicker Park patio is a long-time Chicago meeting place for taco and margarita-lovers across the city. You can head there for your next Taco Tuesday, but don’t stop there. Big Star is worth a visit anytime!
Athena {212 South Halsted Street, #1, Chicago; 312.655.0000}: An expansive but intimate escape, the Athena patio was updated in 2020 to make the most of their gorgeous Greektown space. Their classic cuisine, paired with fun cocktails, make for a fun evening with family and friends to kick off the new year.
Geja's Cafe {340 West Armitage Avenue, Chicago; 773.281.9101}: You can’t get any cozier than fondue, served fireside! Geja’s Cafe has been a favorite for date nights in the city for decades, and they’re continuing to provide that long-loved romantic atmosphere with their new outdoor seating space. Take your next date night outdoors with dinner with them.
Barcocina
Barcocina {2901 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago; 773.687.9949}: The holidays might be over, but you can still feel festive in one of Barcocina’s patio seats or reserved igloos! Pair Churro Empanadas with one of their Campfire-Tinis for a uniquely delicious winter meal.
Formento's {925 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.690.7295}: Warm and cheesy pasta dishes or a decadent meatball appetizer are perfect meals for a winter’s night. Getting to enjoy them in one of Formento’s personal, heated igloos will only make the meal more wonderful! It’s the perfect idea for date night or when you have something to celebrate.
Tuco and Blondie {3358 North Southport Avenue, Chicago; 773.327.8226}: You can never have enough of patio margaritas! And while Tuco and Blondie is a Lakeview favorite during the summertime, you shouldn’t forget about them this winter. Cheers to neighborhood spots serving up amazing food all year long!
By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor