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New Yorkers 1st Choice
River North's best

Desserts with outdoor space

You prefer to enjoy your sweets in the open air rather than tucked away inside.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1
Sophia Steak Chicago image 2
Sophia Steak Chicago image 3
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Upscale steakhouse offers intimate indoor seating and a welcoming outdoor patio with plants and shade. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with stylish decor including Deco lamps and a flowered canopy. Cocktails and wine pairings complement perfectly cooked steaks in a comfortable setting.

Toffee bread pudding and chocolate cake stand out among the desserts. They offer a variety of sweet options, and sometimes a free dessert choice is available.

Flowered canopy and cute outdoor seating create a pleasant vibe. The welcoming outdoor patio pairs well with beautiful indoor seating for year-round use.

People are saying

"The steak here is melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly seasoned."

"They made my birthday celebration unforgettable with a special dessert."

"The outdoor patio is really nice and pleasant."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, including weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

3

Half off bottles of wine are available on Monday nights.

02
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Soft serve dessert and phenomenal tiramisu stand out. Custom desserts made fresh add a unique touch.

Beautiful patio space offers a classy outdoor dining experience. Both outside and inside areas feel very classy and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"It's a beautiful outdoor space, perfect for enjoying a cocktail."

"You have to try the Brigadero Tiramisu dessert; it's so delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

03
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Desserts show skill and creativity with decadent flavors. They pair well with the entrees and make a strong finish.

Great patio offers outdoor seating that many prefer over indoors. The space feels well appointed and creates a nice vibe for dining outside.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The manager comped our desserts after the kitchen messed up."

"The outdoor seating here is really comfortable and cute."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

04
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.

Complimentary desserts come with special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. The mango Peninsula dessert stands out on a menu focused on quality sweets.

Outdoor seating offers a shaded patio and a secluded terrace that feels private in the city. The terrace has a great energy and suits enjoying meals outside.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor terrace has a great energy and perfect atmosphere."

"The Peking duck here is the best I could find in town."

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.

05
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

House-made desserts stand out with a spectacular quality. They complement the menu well and show a sense of value and appreciation for guests.

Tables on the patio come with personally printed menus to keep. Staff treat guests with attentive, experienced care outdoors. Seating at 4:30 enhances the outdoor dining experience.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"The desserts here are tender and flavorful."

"You can sit outside and enjoy the cooler weather."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentineโ€™s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

06
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.

Cannoli dessert stands out as the highlight of the meal. Gelato also offers a tasty finish to the menu.

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 homemade tiramisu here is creamy and perfection."

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.

07
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.

Thoughtful dessert boards feature candled-top sweets that light up with a fireworks show. Generous portions make the experience memorable and the quality stays consistently top notch.

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."

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

"The desserts here are a dazzling fireworks show!"

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.

08
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop image 1

Two-story chocolate shop offers stunning river views and a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere. The space fills with lively energy and can get noisy and busy, especially with families around. Seating is limited and first-come, first-served, with an outdoor patio providing a more relaxed vibe.

Desserts feature thick hot fudge that sticks to the spoon and adds deep warmth. Frozen treats come in large, rich servings that go beyond simple ice cream. Options like the Gold Rush and Strawberry Passion offer sweet, chocolatey satisfaction.

Cozy indoor seating offers views of the Chicago River and Michigan Avenue. A lovely outdoor patio provides a spot for sunny days and people watching by the river walk.

People are saying

"Jameson's service made the chocolate experience feel personal and joyful."

"I loved the nice view overlooking the river and city."

"You can sit on the patio and people watch by the river."

Good to know

1

There's a special offer on 7/25 for a mini hot fudge sundae at $7.25.

2

Seating is first come, first serve and can be sparse during peak hours.

3

Finding a seat can be nearly impossible during busy times.

09
Levain Bakery image 1

Bright, cozy bakery with a warm, inviting vibe and irresistible chocolate and brown sugar aroma. Small indoor space with limited seating and a few outdoor seats on a patio. Known for exceptional cookies that set a high standard for deliciousness.

Cookies stand out with their appealing look and freshness. The spot stays open late, making it a solid choice for a quick dessert.

A small outdoor space offers a handful of chairs and a patio for eating cookies. Seating is limited but available for those who want to enjoy treats outside or take them to go.

People are saying

"I thought these cookies were the best I had ever tried."

"The cookies here are amazing, crunchy outside and soft inside."

"The outdoor space here has only a handful of chairs."

Good to know

1

Levain Bakery opened in the River North area in September 2023, between Kinzie and Hubbard Streets.

2

The cookie costs over $5 each, so plan your budget accordingly.

3

Levain Bakery only offers one vegan flavor for those with dietary restrictions.

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