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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of River North

Outdoor seating eats

Made for those who insist on eating their meals in the open air.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
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Updated April 2026
01
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Bar offers a spacious outdoor patio with city views and garage doors that open to bring in fresh air. Atmosphere is lively and energetic, especially during sports games shown on multiple big screens. Crowd enjoys casual comfort with good food and cocktails in a polished yet relaxed setting.

Food goes beyond typical sports bar fare with a good selection that suits large groups. Dishes come out delicious and pair well with specialty cocktails.

Open garage doors lead to a spacious patio with a beautiful city view. The area suits large groups and offers a great spot to watch the game or relax on warm nights.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and great."

"I found the handcrafted cocktails here to be interesting and excellent."

"The spacious patio is perfect for relaxing with friends and family."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

2

Sunday funday features special promotions and a lively atmosphere.

3

The back patio is available for seating, perfect for warm evenings.

02
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.

Food here offers an exceptional dining experience with great service that complements the meals well.

Tables on the patio come with personally printed menus to keep. Staff treat diners like royalty with attentive service. Outdoor seating offers a great atmosphere alongside quality food.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and well presented."

"I loved sitting outside under the fairy lights."

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.

03
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.

Food features amazing quality and a wide variety of options. Service stands out with five-star attention and the setting on the 20th floor adds to the overall experience.

Outdoor seating features fireplaces and a built-in firepit that create a warm, cozy atmosphere. TVs on the patio add to the relaxed vibe while lounging with friends and dogs.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"The food here is exquisite and five-star quality."

"The outdoor seating offers breathtaking city 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.

04
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.

Food features amazing Italian dishes with excellent service and a welcoming ambiance. The menu offers a true oasis for Italian cuisine with consistently great flavors.

Outdoor patio welcomes dogs and treats them like loyal customers. Seating is close enough for a quick walk from nearby spots.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is amazing, especially the pasta sauce."

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.

05
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.

Food features burrata over a brilliant salad and tuna crudo over citrusy Japanese leaves. Dishes show a focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients.

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."

"The homemade pasta here is amazing and cooked to perfection."

"The outdoor seating is beautiful, especially near the river."

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.

06
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1

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.

Food impresses with outstanding quality and arrives promptly even when busy. Dining here offers a great vibe alongside a team that goes above and beyond.

A flowered canopy shades a cute outdoor patio that feels welcoming and stylish. The space suits drinks well and offers a pleasant spot to relax outside.

People are saying

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

"The food, especially the steaks, is refined and flavorful."

"The outdoor patio is lovely 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.

07
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.

Food here stands out for its exceptional Mediterranean flavors and consistently delicious taste. Both the dishes and service maintain a spectacular quality that never disappoints.

Great patio offers a lovely atmosphere to enjoy the weather. Outdoor seating feels more inviting than indoor with a well appointed dining area and a relaxed patio vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The chicken kebab here is prepared and presented perfectly."

"The pita bread here is perfectly seasoned and fluffy."

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.

08
Daveโ€™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.

Food features bold flavors and crispy textures with consistently great service enhancing the experience.

Outdoor seating features a colorful vibe with impressive decorations on the patio. Staff assist quickly with orders outside, and there is plenty of space to sit and enjoy the atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The Reaper Chicken Sandwich is seriously spicy; I had to sign a waiver."

"The spicy chicken here is flavorful and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Daveโ€™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.

09
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.

Food arrives quickly during less busy times and tastes light and delicious. Staff check in regularly, enhancing the wonderful atmosphere alongside great music.

Plenty of outside tables fill the patio area. Seating options extend beyond indoors with a spacious patio for outdoor dining.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be amazing and full of Italian flavors."

"I sat at one of the outside tables; there was plenty of seating."

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.

10
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.

Food features buttery smooth scallops, firm dumplings, and lobster with generous portions. Every dish tastes absolutely delicious and perfectly prepared.

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 Peking duck and mango pudding are must-try dishes."

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

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.

11
The Royal Sonesta Chicago River North image 1

Hotel offers gorgeous city and river views with a 17th floor rooftop pool and terrace. Interior features a dark, chic design with a fresh, luxurious scent upon entry. Rooms provide a quiet, comfortable atmosphere despite the lively surrounding area.

Delicious food comes from the on-site dining eatery. The restaurant pairs great dishes with friendly staff.

A rooftop deck offers a heated outdoor space with a pool and comfortable seating overlooking the city. A small patio and lounge downstairs add more outdoor seating options.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly; they upgraded our room for our daughter's birthday."

"The staff's attention to detail made our outdoor seating experience wonderful."

"The food here is delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $100, and only valet service is available.

2

A resort fee of $32 or more is charged to all guests.

3

The hotel is centrally located near downtown and public transport.

12
The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago image 1

Upscale hotel with a sophisticated design aesthetic and elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. Rooftop terrace and bar offer stunning views and a lively spot for cocktails and small bites. Central location attracts a bustling crowd, creating a vibrant energy throughout the day.

Food and service consistently impress with their quality and attentiveness. The setting complements the experience with great rooms and lounges enhancing the overall vibe.

Outdoor spaces include a rooftop terrace with fire heaters for cooler weather and a bar terrace that offers a relaxing spot to unwind. Drinks and food served on the outdoor terrace are quite good.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so kind and helpful."

"The food here was delicious, especially the chorizo skillet."

"The outdoor seating is a beautiful, relaxing spot with fire pits."

Good to know

1

Expect a Daily Destination Fee upon arrival, which may not be disclosed during booking.

2

Room service is unavailable after 10:30 PM, despite advertised hours until 11 PM.

3

The hotel is attached to the Shops at North Bridge for convenient shopping.

13
Peet's Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers indoor and outdoor seating with fast internet and plenty of space to work. Atmosphere stays cozy and quiet despite steady flow of people, making it suitable for breaks or remote work. Location near the river adds a pleasant outdoor vibe with shaded patio seating.

Food includes pre-made, microwaved items served in small portions. Quality ranges from average to amazing depending on the visit.

The patio offers pretty outdoor seating with a nice vibe. Finding a chair can be tricky, but sitting outside is often wonderful.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"The outdoor seating here is very pretty and nice."

"I thought the food here was amazing."

Good to know

1

The takeout process is easy and quick.

2

Expect a long queue for the single restroom in the cafe.

3

The cafe is busy, especially on Saturday afternoons.

14
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.

Outdoor seating includes a nice patio area spread across two floors. Service at the patio is better than at the bar seating, though seating is open and servers may take time to arrive.

People are saying

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

"I thought the food here was great and tasty."

"The outdoor seating area here is really nice."

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.

15
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.

Food includes delicious baked goods with some visits noting perfect scores for taste. Some experiences mention good quality, while others report disappointment in food and service.

A small patio offers a few outdoor seats where people can enjoy their treats. Cookies can be eaten there or packed for takeout.

People are saying

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

"The cookies here are amazing, especially the oatmeal raisin."

"The outdoor seating here is really small, with only a few 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.

16
Brehon Pub image 1
Restaurant

Irish pub with old-fashioned decor and a quiet secretive back area contrasts with a crowded front room. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, suited for watching sports with multiple screens and playing games like pool and darts. Offers a huge patio and a relaxed, neighborhood vibe.

Food comes out fast with awesome flavors and pairs well with great beer. Service supports a smooth dining experience.

A huge patio offers plenty of space for outdoor seating. The bartender allows guests to sit outside, making it easy to enjoy summer nights on the patio with access to pool tables and darts nearby.

People are saying

"The food and beer at this pub were awesome."

"The food here is great, especially the mushroom swiss burger."

"The outdoor seating here is a great neighborhood spot."

Good to know

1

The pub charges an extra 3% on the bill for credit card payments.

2

Expect a $1 table fee for games, payable in quarters or bills.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

17
Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown image 1

Large building with a beautiful lobby and spacious, modern rooms featuring minibars and microwaves. Outdoor areas include a heated pool and a patio that offer relaxing spaces. Breakfast serves standard fare with popular waffles and gluten-free options in a large dining room.

Breakfast features excellent food and attentive service. An assistant helps with food, and the attendant keeps the area clean and well-stocked while providing friendly support.

A beautiful outdoor patio sits next to the indoor pool with couches, tables, chairs, and umbrellas. The terrace offers a relaxing spot to unwind.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast was good and free."

"The free breakfast here is great, especially the make-your-own waffles."

"The outdoor patio is beautiful and a great way to unwind."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $59 per day, and valet service is available.

2

Expect noise from the nearby fire station, especially at night.

3

The hotel does not have on-site parking; valet is the only option.

18
320 RiverBar image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers riverview patio with calm, inviting atmosphere and both indoor and outdoor seating. Crowd is pleasant and service is prompt, making it a nice spot to relax or enjoy a casual drink. Setting by the riverfront creates a pleasant dining experience distinct from typical urban eateries.

Food arrives quickly, usually in less than 10 minutes, and tastes fantastic and tasty. Service includes thoughtful touches like timely water refills and clear explanations of menu choices.

A riverview patio offers a nice view and shade in the afternoon. Both outdoor and indoor seating options exist for relaxing.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the salmon dish."

"I had dinner with a breathtaking river view."

"I loved the outdoor seating's nice riverfront view."

Good to know

1

The bar is located on the main floor of the Westin hotel.

2

Expect high prices, with cocktails like a Jim Beam Old Fashioned costing $17.

3

Vegetarian options are available on the menu.

19
The Westin Chicago River North image 1

Rooms offer breathtaking river views and a sleek, modern vibe with warm colors and soothing scents. Lobby and bar areas feel air-conditioned cold with loud music, creating a lively atmosphere. Outdoor bar provides a great spot to see city lights at night.

Food impresses with 5 star room service and consistently high quality across dishes. Drinks and overall dining experience match the exceptional service and top notch ambience.

Seating outside includes a patio overlooking the river and a bar area with views of the city lights at night. The outdoor spaces offer great views and good service.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were all very nice and helpful."

"The food here is really good, amazing, and top-notch."

"The outdoor seating has amazing river views and city lights at night."

Good to know

1

Expect a $30 junk fee added to your bill automatically.

2

Breakfast buffet costs $40 after tax and tip.

3

Valet parking is available for convenience.

20
O'Leary's Public House image 1

Irish pub with cozy decor and multiple TVs creates a relaxing and fun vibe. Outdoor seating and a loft area offer varied spaces for socializing. Strong support for Green Bay Packers adds a unique sports atmosphere.

Food features delicious familiar fan favorites and pairs well with good beer. Service complements the excellent food quality.

Outdoor seating includes a patio with multiple tables and options to reserve sections. Staff attention varies, with some being attentive while others show unprofessional behavior regarding seating arrangements.

People are saying

"The bartenders at this pub are friendly and fun."

"I thought the food here was excellent."

"The service at our outdoor seating was immediately attentive and efficient."

Good to know

1

The bar opens at 10 am on Sundays, contrary to online listings.

2

Minors are not allowed in the bar, even if accompanied by adults.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during Packers games with plenty of standing room.

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