Top Spots to Kick Off Summer in Chicago
via NoMI Garden
It’s the time of the year we’ve all been dreaming of. So long, dreary winter days and hello sunshine! We can finally swap out our puffy coats and gloves for t-shirts and sundresses and, more importantly, we can actually enjoy being outside again without multiple layers to keep us warm. Nothing beats kicking off summer in Chicago. Below are some of our recommendations for you to celebrate coming out of hibernation!
NoMI at the Park Hyatt Chicago {Seventh Floor, 800 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago; 312.239.4030}
Feeling like treating yourself to a respite in the heart of Chicago? We’d recommend visiting NoMI Garden, which is now open for the season. Take in the view, and enjoy everything from a Seafood Tower to Mac ‘n’ Cheese, to an Asparagus & Burrata Flatbread alongside seasonal cocktails, wine, and beer. You may never leave.
Ina Mae Tavern {1415 North Wood Street, Chicago; 773.360.8320}
If you’re in the mood for some classic southern grub, don’t miss out on Ina Mae Tavern in Wicker Park. Their menu is full of a wide-array of Po Boys, Gumbo and fried seafood. Enjoy the delicious food with a cocktail on their large patio. We’d recommend the seasonal frozen Sno-balls and joining them for happy hour, which includes a rotating boozy punch and a Busch Light and Cajun Fries combo.
via The Peninsula
Z Bar {The Peninsula Hotel, 108 East Superior Street, Chicago; 312.573.6888}
Head up to Z Bar and you are surrounded by “iconic views of the city” and one-of-a-kind cocktails. They have four versions of a Gin and Tonic, a Sangria Rose and a beverage we’ve been dying to try called Mad Sound: a truffle-infused Balvenie 16-year-old whisky with green chartreuse, Pedro Ximenez Sherry and truffle. Located inside the luxurious Peninsula Hotel, this lounge should be on the top of your list.
City Winery on the Riverwalk {11 East Riverwalk South, Chicago; 312.229.5593}
What’s better than a summer evening spent outside along the Riverwalk? How about we add in a chilled glass of Rosé and a Cheese & Charcuterie board? City Winery on the Riverwalk is open and has all of that and much more. Enjoy whatever beverage your heart desires, including numerous world-class wines on tap, an impressive cocktail menu, plus some beer and hard seltzer options. It’s the perfect spot for happy hour and it’s now open for the summer season!
via Big Star
Big Star {Multiple Locations}
With three must-try locations, Big Star’s “Honky Tonk” spirit is one of our very favorites. The original Wicker Park location is a classic and they’re celebrating their 15th anniversary this year with something we can all enjoy: a beautiful upgraded patio that just opened this spring! For food, we recommend the Walking Taco (Fritos, spicy pinto bean dip, crema, cholula salsa, queso chihuahua, onion, cilantro in a homemade tortilla), their Queso Fundido and a House Ranch Water (Hornitos Blanco, grapefruit oil, fresh lime, bubbles) to top it all off!
Parson’s {Multiple Locations}
If you’re looking for a great dog-friendly and kid-friendly spot with a sprawling patio, you’ve found it! Parson’s is the perfect spot for furry friends, families and everything in between, especially if you’re craving delicious fried chicken.
They have three locations to pick from: Logan Square, Lincoln Park and Andersonville. Their Hot Chicken Sandwich is to die for, as are their chicken nuggets and their Famous Hush Puppies. Every entree is the perfect blank canvas to try their ten different Dippin’ Sauces. Don’t miss their fun cocktails (our favorite is the Dillarita: Corazón Blanco tequila, lime, Parson’s Pickle Brine and jalapeño).
Recess {838 West Kinzie Street, Chicago; 312.801.1181}
Don’t miss out on one of the most popular outdoor bars in Chicago. Recess claims to be home to Chicago’s largest patio, which is obviously a priority for summer socializing. They have a fantastic happy hour Tuesday - Friday (from 4-6pm), including $10 cocktails, $8 mocktails, and a must-try Sampler Platter which is comprised of two Cheeseburger Sliders, two Buffalo Chicken Rolls, a half order of Chicken & Waffle Fries and some Green Garbanzo Hummus. If happy hour doesn’t work for your schedule, don’t worry, they have a fantastic brunch menu and a late night menu too, so your options are limitless. It’s a fun vibe no matter when you go!
By Kerry Leary | Special Correspondent