The Best Patios in Chicago

Read all about the best patios in Chicago that I’ve been to – in neighborhoods all over the city!

Happy Thursday, everyone! Now that the weather has warmed up, I realized that this patio roundup needed a little refresh. A lot has changed in Chicago since 2017, am I right?!

We all know there’s nothing quite like a patio or rooftop cocktail on a nice Summer day. It’s literally what we dream about every other time of year. A warm breeze, maybe multiple rounds, and an excuse to check out a new part of the city? If that sounds delightful to you, too – here are my favorite Chicago patios to check out this time of year. Hope this is helpful the next time you need a place to hang on a beautiful Saturday!!

The Best Patios in Chicago

Piccolo Sogno

Piccolo Sogno might be my personal favorite on this list. Even though it’s located right on a busy street corner, the walls block everything out. As soon as you walk into the space, you immediately feel as if you’ve left the city. It’s just big beautiful trees, string lights, multiple glasses of wine, and delicious Italian food. The perfect little oasis… and very romantic 😉

The Warbler

If you’ve read my guide to Lincoln Square, you know that we LOVE The Warbler. We fell in love with it by snagging two seats at the bar, getting a glass of wine and sharing their crispy cauliflower and a flatbread. But now that it’s nice out, I want to stop and have a cocktail every time I pass their cute little patio. Maybe we’ll go this weekend…
(photo via their instagram)

Paradise Park

I wish I had a better photo of the patio at Paradise Park (this is from their website!), because it is SO CUTE in real life. I actually just went there for the first time last weekend, and loved it. It’s owned by the same people that brought us Homeslice and Happy Camper, so it’s no wonder this is a hit. The decor is really fun with tons of plants and greenery, plastic flamingos and hanging lights. Plus, PIZZA!

Big Star

Big Star is super popular choice – but for good reason! This Wicker Park gem is pretty much always crowded, but if you can snag a seat, you’re in for a good night. They may not have the best tacos in the city, but I’m always happy to indulge in a margarita and guacamole outside. Always.

The Dawson

The Dawson‘s patio is decked out with lots of greenery, string lights, and it has it’s own bar outside! The food is delicious, they’ve got a great brunch and they also make one of my favorite Old Fashioneds in the city.
(photo via)

Spacca Napoli

If you’ve been following me a while, you know I have trouble leaving Spacca Napoli off of any list because it’s my FAVORITE! It can be really hard to snag a table on their little patio on a nice night, but if you find yourself in Ravenswood during the day, grab a spot!

Parson’s Chicken & Fish

When it comes to day drinking, Parson’s wins. Plain and simple. They have the cutest picnic tables, you can play ping pong, and they serve NEGRONI SLUSHIES. What could possibly be better than an ice cold alcoholic slushie on a hot summer afternoon?! They also recently opened a location in Lincoln Park, if that’s closer to you!
(photo via)

Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits

You might recognize Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits from my Favorite Brunch list, but I had to add it here, too! Picture this: it’s a beautiful Saturday morning, you’ve just ordered an Avocado Biscuit and iced coffee, and you’re sitting on this patio with neighborhood puppies at all the nearby tables. Yeah, it’s pretty great.
(photo via)

City Winery Riverwalk

City Winery has two locations in the city, but the one right on the Riverwalk is pretty special. Enjoy wines on tap and live music, all while sitting right on the river with the skyline right beside you.

Park & Field

This fun retro-inspired sports bar has one of the largest patios around, complete with fire pits and bocce ball courts. If you’re looking for a place to hang out ALL day long, Park & Field is the spot.

Orso’s

I’ll be honest, I lived in Old Town for over 5 years and I only went to Orso’s a few times. I had a bad meal once when I sat inside and the Italian food snob in me didn’t want to try it again for a while. But here’s the move – sit outside on their patio, order a glass of wine, and split a salad and a pizza. Delightful.

Beatnick on the River

Bohemian decor, big colorful pillows, and a seat right on the river? YES PLEASE! I still haven’t had a chance to actually eat at Beatnick on the River, but if it’s anything like the Beatnick in West Town, you’re in for a good meal.

90 Miles Cuban Cafe

90 Miles has a few locations, but their Logan Square patio is the best. It’s a little off the beaten path, but it’s BYOB, the empanadas are AMAZING, and I love the low key vibes.

What are your favorite patios in Chicago?

PS. Have you read My Weekend Guide to Chicago in the Summer, The Best Rooftops in Chicago, The Best Chicago Date Night Spots, The Best Chicago Street Festivals, and The Best Outdoor Concerts in Chicago?