RPM Seafood’s riverside outdoor patio
On the hunt for the best outdoor dining destinations in Chicago? From a Chicago River-adjacent veranda to a secret garden-inspired sanctuary, these local faves deliver with cozy patio seating options, jaw-dropping views and top-notch service.
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180 N. Wacker Drive / Website
Take in picturesque views of the Chicago River while enjoying global fare and tropical craft cocktails (piña coladas, spritzes and more) at this must-visit spot. Snag a seat on the bohemian-chic patio and indulge in top picks like pomegranate-topped baba ganoush, shrimp esquites with spiced shakshuka, short rib tagine and more.
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1531 N. Damen Ave. / Website
Big Star Wicker Park’s all-weather, solar-powered patio is designed to keep diners cozy—even through the coldest months of winter. With a buzzy scene comprised of locals and visitors alike, the spot is known for its mouthwatering Mexican staples, from al pastor tacos to beef birria quesadillas, which are accompanied by refreshing libations like margaritas, Palomas, daiquiris and more.
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1350 W. Randolph St. / Website
Owned and helmed by chefs (and husband-and-wife-duo) Anna and David Posey, this Michelin-starred West Loop spot dishes out Danish-influenced American fare with a lineup of ever-evolving culinary creations and a homey, fireside patio. Previous offerings include lamb tartare, smoked sturgeon with parsnip rosti and grilled striploin with red cabbage ketchup and marjoram. Since the menu changes seasonally, refer to Elske’s website to peruse its current menu.
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The Emily Hotel, 311 N. Morgan St. / Website
Indulge in contemporary, globally inspired dishes at this Fulton Market restaurant, which is situated on the first floor of the Emily Hotel. The eatery is home to a charming patio studded with firepits, sparkling lights and lush greenery—perfect for enjoying all-day eats like quinoa bowls, penne a la vodka, steak frites and roasted chicken. Elevate your experience further with the Corazón tequila-infused margarita or the espresso martini with Ketel One, Kahlua and espresso.
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1028 N. Rush St. / Website
Open since 1989, this iconic Gold Coast mainstay serves everything from premium Angus steaks to grass-fed Australian beef, with fresh fish, classic cocktails and a sprawling wine list to boot. For prime people-watching, track down a seat on the street-side patio—best enjoyed with a juicy cut of filet mignon, Alaskan red king crab legs or oysters on the half shell. Pair your meal with old fashioneds, Manhattans, espresso martinis and more.
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2401 N. Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Drive / Website
For Lake Michigan views, skyline scenery and luxe culinary offerings, this regional American spot is the place to go. Start small with artisanal cheese boards, elote tostadas and Old Bay shrimp ceviche, or go all in with cheeseburgers, chicken tinga tacos and poblano beef stew. Visit for weekend brunch to dine on favorites like open-face omelets, churro French toast and brunch burgers served with one-year-aged cheddar, a fried egg, bloody mary ketchup and a brioche bun.
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2952 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
Whether you’re craving crispy, hand-cut chicken nuggets or beer-battered fish and chips with tartar sauce, this Windy City institution has got visitors covered. With a family-friendly, pup-welcome outdoor patio—dotted with Parson’s signature red and white umbrellas—the eatery also serves fried chicken sandwiches, shrimp baskets and its famed negroni slushy, crafted with an indulgent blend of Letherbee gin, Misoo bitter, sweet vermouth and citrus.
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464 N. Halsted St. / Website
Dig into seasonal rustic Italian cuisine and sip curated wine pairings at this River West neighborhood spot, which features a yellow umbrella-outfitted outdoor patio with ample seating and scenic foliage. Choose from specialties like Caprese salad, grilled octopus, pappardelle with spiced wild boar ragu, prosciutto pizza and half-roasted duck with kale, fennel sausage, celery root puree, figs and Marsala reduction.
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317 N. Clark St. / Website
When it comes to Chicago River scenery and seafood specialties that will have you coming back for more, this Lettuce Entertain You spot is a can’t-miss. Round up your crew and feast on lavish seafood towers, yellowfin tuna crispy rice, signature crab cakes, black miso cod, red curry lobster and wagyu New York strip steak. Take your dining experience to the next level with the Crystal Paloma with Flecha Azul Blanco tequila and the Bascule Mule, crafted with Basic vodka, blackberries, honey, orange flower water and ginger.
720 N. State St. / Website
Chef Carlos Gaytán pays tribute to regional Mexican cuisine at this Mag Mile restaurant, home to a heated and covered patio adorned with twinkle lights, florals and greenery. Awaken your palette with queso fundido, tuna ceviche and strip loin steak tartare, or opt for main courses like slow-cooked barbacoa, braised short ribs and chile relleno with ratatouille, roasted squash spaghetti, tomato fondue and panela cheese.
See also: The 10 Best Brunch Spots in Chicago
Photography by: RPM Seafood photo by Lindsay Eberly, courtesy of Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants; Tzuco photo by Neil Burger
