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Best of Chicago

Fried rice with outdoor seating

You want to enjoy your fried rice outside without compromising on the quality of the meal.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
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Updated May 2026
01
Rice Thai Cafe image 1
Rice Thai Cafe image 2
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Thai restaurant

Cozy, tiny space with casual ambiance and comfortable seating indoors and on a flower-filled patio. Tables mostly seat 2-3 people, creating an intimate setting suited for quiet meals or chats. The atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, focusing on affordable, high-quality Thai comfort food.

Fresh and flavorful fried rice comes without greasiness. Options include vegetable fried rice and a version made with brown rice. It is not offered as a side dish.

Cozy outdoor dining space features a patio with flowers and a great atmosphere for sitting outside.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and tastes great."

"The outdoor seating has a great atmosphere."

"The fried rice here is fresh, flavorful, and not greasy."

Good to know

1

Street parking is the only parking option available.

2

The restaurant is BYOB and has no cork fee.

3

The takeout service and ordering process is very convenient.

02
Chengdu Bistro West Town 蓉小馆 image 1

Chinese restaurant offers a cozy, beautiful space with cramped tables and a busy, loud atmosphere where conversation can be challenging. A large, dog-friendly patio provides casual outdoor seating with live music. The vibe suits groups looking to share dishes in a lively setting.

Peking Duck fried rice stands out with its rich duck flavor and is often served with extra duck. The fried rice pairs well with sweet and spicy noodles and crispy crab Rangoon.

A large patio in the back welcomes dogs and offers a beautiful setting. The space has a great vibe and plenty of room to relax outdoors.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the Dan Dan noodles."

"The duck fried rice was fantastic and a favorite."

"The outdoor seating on the back patio is surprisingly beautiful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for peak dining hours.

2

A small bowl of Dan Dan noodles costs $6.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options, including Mapo Tofu.

03
Tuk Tuk Thai Isan Street Food (Wicker Park) image 1

Colorful, lively interior with Thai décor creates a warm, vibrant vibe that feels authentic and inviting. The space includes two decorated rooms and a heated patio where dogs are welcome. The atmosphere suits casual dinners and date nights, drawing a steady crowd and lively energy.

Fried rice dishes come in big portions with well-cooked chicken and sweet onions. The crab fried rice has a respectable amount of crab, and the basil fried rice stands out as a highly recommended option.

A heated patio offers outdoor seating even in cooler weather. Dogs are welcome on the patio, making it pet-friendly. The space feels lovely with thoughtful decor and a cozy vibe.

People are saying

"The coconut seafood curry with oysters, shrimp, and squid was to die for."

"I loved the authentic Thai flavors on the Outdoor Seating."

"I found the Thai Fried Rice to be the best I had in Chicago."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait for walk-in tables during peak hours.

3

Finding parking can be difficult due to zoning restrictions in the area.

04
Kayao Restaurant image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Intimate and bustling Peruvian restaurant with soft lighting and artistic decor creates an upscale, cozy vibe. Music plays a key role, featuring a DJ-curated playlist that energizes the space. Signature pisco cocktails and standout dishes like ceviche and lucuma ice cream highlight the authentic experience.

Chaufa features sticky fried rice with a mix of mushrooms like maitake and crispy varieties. Adding smoked duck enhances the savory flavor, making it a standout dish.

Outdoor seating offers a cozy patio with heaters that create a good vibe. The area is intimate but not well sheltered, making it better for milder weather.

People are saying

"The ceviche here has a great balance of tartness and citrus."

"I had a fantastic meal on the patio; the food was delicious."

"You have to try the fried rice; the duck is phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available before 6:30 PM; ask to sit on the patio or bar.

2

The happy hour offers a great calamari option.

3

Kayao Restaurant has a limited brunch menu available until 4 PM.

05
Ruman Chai Shai & Restaurant(Zabiha Halal) image 1

Small, cozy space with outdoor seating and beautiful decoration creates a welcoming, homely vibe. Atmosphere feels like a Dhaba-style spot where people relax and enjoy authentic Hyderabadi flavors and chai. The place is lively with many visitors, making it less private but perfect for casual gatherings.

Chicken fried rice stands out with a homemade taste and street-style flavor. Varieties like spicy chicken fried rice and zeera fried rice come cooked just right and satisfy different cravings.

Outdoor seating expands the dining area with tables set outside. It offers a relaxed spot to enjoy drinks like chai with family.

People are saying

"I found the Irani chai here to be the best in town."

"The chicken fried rice tasted like amazing homemade food."

"The food at this Outdoor Seating is so flavorful and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Prices at the counter may differ from those advertised on the menu.

2

Some menu items may take longer to prepare than others.

3

The portion sizes are generous, providing good value for money.

06
R Haan Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Tiny space with cozy atmosphere and limited seating mainly suits takeout. Indoor and outdoor areas offer a warm, inviting vibe despite small size. Known for authentic Thai cuisine with customizable spice levels.

Multiple fried rice options include basil fried rice with tofu and versions served with broccoli beef. Dishes pair well with a variety of entrees like cashew chicken and pad thai.

Cute patio offers a nice spot when the weather is good. Both indoor and outdoor seating areas provide comfortable options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The Outdoor Seating is perfectly spiced and delicious."

"The fried rice here is so delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant mainly caters to takeout due to limited seating.

2

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find.

3

The restaurant has only four tables for dine-in customers.

07
Shanghai Terrace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open terrace offers shaded patio seating with spectacular views and a festive yet formal atmosphere. Indoor spaces feel elegant but somewhat worn, while outdoor areas provide a secluded and lively energy ideal for special occasions.

Fried rice stands out as one of the best dishes here, often paired with fried noodles. It comes as a shareable plate alongside dim sum and meats, making it a solid choice for a flavorful meal.

Outdoor seating offers a shaded patio with a secluded terrace that creates a great energy. The atmosphere suits enjoying meals quietly away from the city buzz.

People are saying

"The Peking duck here is the best Chinese food I've found."

"The Outdoor Seating is great for delicious food and awesome service."

"I'd return for the fried rice and noodles."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must at this place.

2

Expect higher prices compared to typical Chinese restaurants.

3

The terrace offers a nice view, especially for outdoor dining.

08
Bayan Ko Diner image 1

Diner offers a cozy, homey vibe with charming decor featuring dark wood and plant motifs. Seating is close together, creating an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere, with an upstairs patio providing outdoor, dog-friendly space. Music leans toward fabulous R&B, enhancing the relaxed, casual mood.

Offers fried rice that stands out from typical versions with a tasty and unique flavor. Includes it alongside other dishes like skewers and pancit in takeout orders.

Upstairs patio offers dog-friendly outdoor seating with a lovely vibe. Patio sits close to the train, adding a unique backdrop to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the brunch here was amazing, especially the Cubano burrito."

"I loved the fantastic drinks and wonderful food on the Outdoor Seating."

"I tried the fried rice and it was tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends.

2

The diner is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Brunch is served daily from 9am to 3pm, except on Tuesdays.

09
TNT Rooftop Restaurant image 1

Rooftop setting offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere with top-tier music from DJs playing 90s and 2000s hits. The vibe suits date nights and small parties, featuring a semi-private room. Food and drinks include flavorful seafood and cocktails, with standout items like lamb chops and lemon drop cocktails.

Fried rice appears as a consistent side, served alongside buffalo shrimp, lamb chops, salmon, and chicken. It sometimes comes presented in a pineapple, adding a unique touch to the dish.

A beautiful patio and a rooftop seating area offer a chill vibe with nice music. Staff engage warmly, enhancing the outdoor experience despite some street activity nearby.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"I tried the fried rice and it tasted great."

"The outdoor seating here is amazing with great music."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Thursdays for ladies with special pricing.

2

Wine Wednesday offers three tastings and a full glass for $20.

3

An 18% gratuity is added for all parties, regardless of size.

10
Sun Rey Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small, cozy cafe with warm, bright decor and a family-run, welcoming atmosphere. Space feels crowded but inviting, with great music and some outdoor seating. Offers a hidden gem vibe away from busy streets, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Garlic fried rice stands out with a strong flavor that enhances breakfast dishes. The fried rice serves as a satisfying side or main, adding a rich, savory touch to meals.

Outdoor seating opens up during warmer weather and offers a quieter patio option as it becomes available.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is incredible, especially the garlic fried rice."

"The garlic fried rice made the breakfast amazing."

"I loved the outdoor seating when the weather was nice."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the monthly Kamayan Filipino dinners.

2

Sun Rey Cafe is BYOB on Sundays, making it family-friendly.

3

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes before placing your order.

11
Lan's Chicago image 1
Mandarin restaurant

Mandarin restaurant offers a large indoor space with a lighted outdoor patio featuring wooden tables and flowers. The atmosphere shifts from chill vibes to a lively party scene with karaoke, a DJ, and dancing on tables. A full bar and BYOB option complement the energetic yet relaxed setting.

Chicken fried rice stands out with quick service and solid flavor. Other options include shrimp fried rice and vegetable fried rice, often paired with egg rolls or kung pao chicken.

A lighted outdoor patio sits next to Goose Island and Salt Shed, offering a pleasant spot to eat. The front patio features wooden tables and flowers, with a huge free parking lot nearby on several streets.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the garlic green beans."

"The food here is amazing, hot, and delicious."

"I thought the chicken fried rice here was the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late until 11 pm nightly, except on Tuesdays when it is closed.

2

There is a huge free parking lot next to the patio on Cortland, Clybourn, Elston, and Kingsbury streets.

3

Lan's Chicago is BYOB, and they supply ice and have liquor on site.

12
3LP (3 little pigs chi) Bridgeport image 1

Tiny space with bench seats and a handful of tables offers a cozy atmosphere accented by colorful murals. A large patio out back provides casual outdoor seating, often favored by families. The vibe blends simple decor with a fun, lively energy despite occasional smoke from cooking.

Fried rice features meaty combos like Spam, BBQ pork, and Chinese sausage that bring strong flavors. The Henry fried rice mixes various meats for a solid choice, while veggie fried rice offers a tasty alternative.

A large patio out back offers a relaxed spot for families with little ones or anyone enjoying a nice summer day. The outdoor seating area feels pretty chill and inviting.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is juicy, crispy, and huge."

"The fried rice here had an interesting flavor with good meat."

"The food here is so delicious, especially the chicken sandwich."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, but there is a large patio on Keely Street.

2

Portions are generous and filling, making it a good value.

3

Parking is easier to find than at their previous location.

13
Lilac Tiger image 1
Cocktail bar

Small, dark cocktail bar offers creative drinks and an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Inside space feels cramped and loud, with music volume requiring raised voices. Patio seating provides a quieter, less crowded option.

Duck fried rice stands out for being cooked to perfection and well-presented. Tiger prawns with fried rice offer good flavor but could use more shrimp or crab meat for added depth.

Patio seating stays comfortable and avoids crowding. Sidewalk patio offers a quieter spot compared to the small, loud interior. Service can be slow with only one server handling the entire patio.

People are saying

"The food here was cooked with heart and had profoundly good flavor."

"The duck fried rice is perfectly cooked and well-presented."

"The outdoor seating is nice and doesn't get too crowded."

Good to know

1

The restaurant might not accept reservations, so plan accordingly.

2

Many menu items may be unavailable during peak hours.

3

Happy hour deals are available, but specific times are not mentioned.

14
The SoulFood Lounge 2 image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small soul food restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere with an all-black aesthetic and live music featuring jazz and saxophone. The vibe stays laid back and refreshing, suited for quiet dinners or date nights. Space is limited, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped setting.

Thai fried rice has a fruity taste that lifts the dish. It pairs well with crispy orange chicken glazed in sauce and comes with honey-glazed green beans and sambal sauce.

Outdoor dining offers a beautiful ambience that shines after sunset. Eating outside adds to the vibe and enhances the experience.

People are saying

"The American Food here, like the turkey leg, is off the bone and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful, especially with outdoor seating."

"The fried rice here is tasty with great service and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a spot inside the restaurant.

2

Parking can be difficult, often requiring a walk from 1-3 blocks away.

3

The restaurant has a 'No Share Policy' for events like 'The Grand Tasting'.

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