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River North's best

Sandwiches with outdoor space

Made for those who prefer to eat their sandwiches in the fresh air.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated May 2026
01
Peet's Coffee image 1
Peet's Coffee image 2
Peet's Coffee image 3
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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.

Warm sandwiches feature melty cheese and herby notes that balance flavors well. Options include a caprese sandwich and a simple egg and cheese breakfast sandwich.

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

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"Sitting outside on the patio was wonderful."

"This sandwich is warm, perfectly balanced, and has melty cheese."

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.

02
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.

Beef sandwiches stand out with fresh Italian breads imported from Italy. Options like the Italian beef and prosciutto sandwiches offer good size and reasonable prices.

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."

"The Italian beef sandwich with cheese and giardiniera was delicious."

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

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.

03
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.

Portions come large for the price. The French dip sandwich melts like butter. Fried chicken sandwich and Gold Coast Club stand out as solid choices.

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."

"The outdoor patio is really nice and pleasant."

"The sandwiches here offer the largest portions for their price."

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.

04
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.

Italian sandwiches feature prosciutto, mozzarella, basil, and tomato on focaccia bread. The sandwiches offer a unique combination of ingredients and a taste reminiscent of Italy.

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."

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

"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.

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.

Crispy and flavorful chicken sandwiches come with varying spice levels, including a very spicy reaper option that requires a waiver. Fresh seasoning and guidance on spice make the sandwiches stand out.

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."

"This Reaper sandwich is seriously spicy; you might need a waiver."

"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
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.

Fried chicken and braised short rib sandwiches stand out with rich, savory flavors. Falafel sandwiches come with flavorful seasoning and a perfect tzatziki addition.

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 outdoor seating here is really comfortable and cute."

"The falafel sandwich was delicious and flavorful."

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.

07
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

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.

Breakfast sandwiches stand out with fresh ingredients and options like prosciutto that recall Parisian flavors. They pair well with drinks like iced cafe mocha or oat milk lattes.

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."

"I highly recommend their delicious breakfast sandwich."

"The outdoor seating offers a great river view."

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.

08
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.

Prime rib trio sandwiches stand out with rich flavor. The chicken parm sandwich special comes with crispy waffle fries. It pairs well with a pint for a casual meal.

A huge patio offers plenty of space to sit outside. The outdoor area complements indoor games like pool and darts, creating a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"You can enjoy summer nights on the huge patio."

"I thought the prime rib trio sandwich was excellent."

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.

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River North, Chicago

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