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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of River North

Chill outdoor spaces

An outdoor space that feels like a private retreat instead of a shared, noisy thoroughfare.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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Updated April 2026
01
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1
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Coffee shop offers calm, classy atmosphere with amazing city and river views. Seating includes indoor and outdoor options, featuring a beautiful terrace ideal for relaxing or people-watching. Space suits those seeking a high-quality coffee experience in a cozy, focused setting.

Minimalistic design creates a chill atmosphere ideal for reading or focusing. The space suits both coffee lovers and those wanting to relax alone or with friends.

Outdoor seating includes a river view patio and a pleasant patio by the river. Access to the Riverwalk enhances the outdoor experience.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"The outdoor seating offers a great river view."

"It's a nice, chill place to relax with a coffee."

Good to know

1

Brunch is offered on weekends, but check availability.

2

Expect to pay over $8 for a latte.

3

Parking is very difficult, so plan ahead.

02
The 101 Bar, Grill & Rooftop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop bar offering spectacular city views and multiple seating options including fire pits and private couches. Live music creates a lively atmosphere that balances well with conversation. Cocktails and food receive strong praise, contributing to an overall vibrant and welcoming vibe.

Great vibes and excellent bar service create a chill atmosphere. The decor mixes modern elegance with cozy touches, fitting for casual hangouts or celebrations.

Outdoor seating offers a warm, cozy atmosphere with fireplaces on the patio. This setup enhances the dining experience by creating a comfortable and inviting space.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"RJ the bartender makes the chill vibe unforgettable with great conversation."

"The outdoor space offers beautiful city and skyline views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available 7 days a week from 5-7pm.

2

Reservations are typically required, but walk-ins may be accommodated if available.

3

The happy hour offers a great selection of drinks and appetizers at unbeatable prices.

03
Happy Monday Coffee - River North image 1

Coffee shop occupies a spacious lobby with an adjacent garden-themed room and a closed-off garage patio. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and cozy to occasionally loud due to music or phone use, with a generally chill vibe suited for studying or working. Decor includes elegant touches but some worn furniture, and dogs are welcome.

Chill vibes create a relaxed setting with a nice atmosphere throughout the space.

A closed-off garage patio opens into an alley, offering a quiet spot for work or calls. The back patio has an extra quiet space with couches that show wear, plus an additional indoor-style patio area.

People are saying

"The ube latte tasted like real ube and was surprisingly flavorful."

"The outdoor space is quiet, perfect for calls or catching up."

"The atmosphere here is really chill and nice."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed at the coffee shop.

2

The coffee shop is located in the lobby of an apartment building.

3

There are plenty of seats inside the coffee shop.

04
Fairgrounds Craft Coffee and Tea image 1

Cafe offers cozy seating with a mix of armchairs, tables, and bar stools, including outdoor seating options. Atmosphere feels warm and inclusive, suited for working or relaxing, though music can be loud. Plenty of outlets support a work-friendly environment with ample seating.

Atmosphere feels chill and relaxing with a great vibe. Comfortable spot to work, meet friends, or just chill out for a few hours.

Outdoor seating offers a chance to enjoy the weather with plenty of tables. Some tables can be dirty and there was an incident with unattended vomit near one spot.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee and its strong flavor."

"It's a great place to chill out and vibe."

"It's a cute place with plenty of outdoor space."

Good to know

1

A latte costs around $7, which is on the expensive side.

2

The coffee shop has limited outlets for charging devices.

3

The outdoor seating area may not be well maintained.

05
Dave’s Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Outdoor and indoor spaces feature colorful artwork and a vibrant, lively atmosphere with loud 1980s rock music. Staff engage actively, often dancing, creating a welcoming and energetic vibe. Seating includes a spacious patio and walk-up counter service.

A super chill atmosphere with great music sets a fun and casual vibe. Friendly service and a casual setting make it easy to stop by for a quick meal.

Outdoor seating offers an incredible atmosphere with a colorful vibe and impressive decorations. A spacious patio complements the clean and inviting environment.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and full of flavor."

"The chicken sandwich here is so crispy and flavorful."

"The chicken here is so juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Dave’s Hot Chicken is halal, making it a great option for those who need it.

2

Parking next to the restaurant is limited, fitting maybe 7 or 8 cars.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

06
Lizzano Focacceria & Spritzeria image 1

Italian restaurant offers traditional focaccia sandwiches with fresh ingredients and large portions. Atmosphere feels authentic and quaint, with lively music and bright, cute decor featuring Aperol and Campari bottles. Outdoor patio seating adds to the welcoming vibe.

A very casual and clean environment sets a chill vibe here, making it easy to relax while enjoying fresh and healthy food in a fast casual setting.

Plenty of outside seating exists on the patio. Tables allow for sitting outdoors comfortably.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches to be delicious and amazing."

"The sandwiches here are seriously good and always fresh."

"I found plenty of outdoor space seating available."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from Wednesday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm.

2

During happy hour, spirits and wine are $9, and Italian boards are 50% off.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

07
Fado Irish Pub image 1

Two-floor pub with old wooden ambiance and outdoor patio offers lively and relaxed areas. Live music and multiple TVs create an energetic vibe, especially during soccer games. Friendly crowd gathers around a rustic bar and dedicated fan corners, blending authentic Irish feel with sports enthusiasm.

Vibes stay chill and low-key even on a Wednesday night. The atmosphere feels relaxed in the morning and evening alike.

Outdoor space includes a patio seating area with open seating. The pub spreads across two floors and features outdoor seating options. Service tends to be better on the patio than at the bar seating.

People are saying

"The pub staff here are super friendly and helpful."

"The outdoor patio seating area was great."

"The vibes here are pretty chill and not too loud."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Trivia nights occur every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

08
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned Italian restaurant with small, crowded space and loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant seating option. Known for authentic Italian pizza and pasta with a lively, energetic vibe.

Small, casual spot with an old-school Italian feel and big flavors. Offers a casual vibe that suits meetups with friends and reasonable prices for excellent food.

Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio where dogs are treated like loyal customers. The space is walkable from nearby spots, making it easy to access.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"Sitting on the patio is great when the weather is perfect."

"The pizzas here are delicious with fresh ingredients and thin crust."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours.

09
Su Casa Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful decor and a mural telling cultural stories create an authentic Mexican atmosphere with a cozy yet open layout. Outdoor seating is abundant, and a bar with televisions adds a lively touch. Complimentary group photos and occasional live Mariachi music contribute to a festive vibe.

Casual and relaxed vibe sets the tone here. The atmosphere stays chill and easygoing, making it a great spot to hang out for hours.

Outdoor seating offers a cute and inviting patio with plenty of space. Both indoor and outdoor options are available for dining.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is so delicious and authentic."

"It's a super chill and casual spot, perfect for a relaxed night out."

"The outdoor seating here is really enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, valid only at the counter.

2

Couples special available on Valentine's Day.

3

A parking garage is on the same block, with SpotHero reservations.

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