Chicago's Best Outdoor Dining

After muscling through a long, harsh Chicago winter, it's time to trade in your winter coat for flip flops and enjoy that cool Lake Michigan breeze—and maybe a plate of pasta while you're at it. You've earned it, so make each meal count.

Here are some of the best spots to take advantage of all the great outdoor dining Chicago has to offer.

① Celeste: The rooftop terrace at this Near North bar will transport you to another time and place, thanks to stylish-but-not-too-serious Victorian decor. Come to soak up the sun above the city streets, stay to try the house-cured and smoked pork belly.

② Ada Street: We are huge fans of this place, and for good reason: The charming and cozy back patio is the perfect place to share some of excellent Mediterranean food. Tables fill up quickly, so come early and hungry.

③ The Dawson: The airy rooftop of this Noble Square neighborhood spot is the kind of place where you come for the brunch and end up staying for meal number two. Bloody Marys are made with peaches instead of tomatoes, and flights here are for bacon, not beer.

④ South Branch: Located on the river in the heart of Downtown, the patio here is made for both boat-and people-watching. Kick off the weekend right with post-work dinner of classic American fare and some craft beer.

⑤ Homestead on the Roof: This isn't your average rooftop dining experience. Here you'll be feasting amongst friends and the ingredients tapped for the menu. Sink into very literal farm-to-table favorites, like cauliflower steak with saffron farro risotto, raisins and almonds.

⑥ Chicago Cut: Another scenic spot to soak up some sun on the river in Downtown Chicago, this steakhouse is a local standby. Don't worry—it's not all meat and potatoes. The warmer weather is just the excuse to order the Alaskan king crab legs you've been eyeing.

Find Celeste here, or in our DINE app.

Find Ada Street here, or in our DINE app.

Find The Dawson here, or in our DINE app.

Find South Branch here, or in our DINE app.

Find Homestead on the Roof here, or in our DINE app.

Find Chicago Cut here, or in our DINE app.