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New Yorkers 1st Choice
West Loop's best

Bars with outdoor space

A drink outside that offers a bit of breathing room instead of forcing you to shout over the crowd just to be heard.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated May 2026
01
Little Toasted image 1
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Gastropub offers a modern, urban chic vibe with a spacious, open interior and terrific outdoor seating by the riverside. Atmosphere feels fun and lively yet comfortable, suitable for quiet parties or after-work relaxation. Whiskey selection stands out as one of the best in the area.

Friendly and fast bartenders create a welcoming vibe. Johnny behind the bar is knowledgeable and personable, making the service stand out.

Outdoor seating includes a riverside patio that offers a relaxing spot on sunny days. The patio has direct sun exposure and lacks a view, but the downtown atmosphere adds to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is simple but done really well."

"The outdoor seating here is terrific and offers a great downtown atmosphere."

"This bar is a versatile spot, perfect for working or unwinding."

Good to know

1

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

2

Little Toasted has 355 whiskeys available for selection.

3

Prices are on the higher side, making it less ideal for everyday lunch.

02
Black Barrel Tavern image 1
American restaurant

American tavern with multiple TVs and a spacious outdoor patio offers a laid-back, pet-friendly vibe. The atmosphere ranges from loud and lively inside to comfortable and quaint outside. Strong, well-crafted cocktails complement the casual setting.

The bar offers a laid back vibe with great service and a full selection for a fun time. It serves classic bar food done right and welcomes dogs, making it a true neighborhood staple.

Outdoor seating offers a quaint and comfortable vibe with a cute patio for alfresco dining. Sitting outside on a warm day feels perfect and relaxing.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

"The outdoor seating is lovely, especially at night."

"The outdoor patio seating is really nice at night."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

The outdoor seating area is a great spot for enjoying meals.

3

Black Barrel Tavern is dog-friendly, allowing pets both indoors and outdoors.

03
Bunker image 1
Sports bar

Basement bar with a secret bar vibe and dim lighting creates an intimate yet casual atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a cozy, dog-friendly space with European neighborhood style. Two small arcades add a playful touch, making it suitable for chill meetups or date nights.

Dimly lit and intimate, the bar offers a cozy atmosphere with friendly service. It features a great patio at street level and serves creative cocktails, including no-alcohol and low-alcohol options.

Cozy, dog-friendly outdoor patio sits at street level. The space feels welcoming and shines during the summer patio season.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are amazing and make the whole experience great."

"The cocktails here are delicious and top-tier."

"It's a cute hidden gem with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm with $5 drafts.

2

Bunker is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

The bar is located a short walk from the United Center.

04
Joto Sushi image 1
Restaurant

Cozy space blends urban Japanese street art with a sexy front half and an intimate omakase bar tucked in the back. Atmosphere shifts from lively and intimate indoors to a shaded patio perfect for warm nights. Guests enjoy aged tuna and fish rarely found elsewhere, paired with an excellent sake program.

Staff at the bar stays kind and attentive, including the host and dish clearers. Seating happens right away, but the atmosphere feels lacking distinctive features compared to nearby bars.

A shaded patio offers a relaxed spot for warm evenings. Outdoor seating pairs with a casual vibe and quality food from the grill.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here feature exceptionally fresh fish and flavorful hand rolls."

"The sushi here is some of the best I've ever had."

"The shaded patio is such a cute vibe for a warm night."

Good to know

1

Joto Sushi offers an all-day happy hour on Mondays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

3

The restaurant features a unique dry aging process for their fish, enhancing flavor.

05
9 Muses Bar & Grill image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers an authentic Greektown feel with live music and sports on screens creating a lively, fun atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating provide a clean, contemporary space that suits casual or elegant dining. Weekends bring a friendly, energetic vibe while happy hour and lunch feel more chill and inviting.

The bar features a whiskey selection that stands out on weekends. It offers a local vibe with plenty of character and a welcoming atmosphere for kids and pets.

Patio seating offers a comfortable space for alfresco dining. Outdoor areas sit within earshot of the bar's live tunes, blending indoor and outdoor vibes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic Greek."

"You can sit outside on the patio for alfresco dining."

"The bar serves amazing Greek food, especially the gyros."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend dining to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport or rideshare services.

3

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

06
Bocaditos Chicago image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic vibe and unique decor creates a chill atmosphere filled with Latino music and a dog-friendly patio. Tables are close together, making the space feel busy and lively. Cocktails like mezcal drinks stand out amid a fun, energetic setting.

Sitting at the bar offers a good vibe and a welcoming atmosphere. The friendly bartender adds warmth even on cold days.

A dog friendly patio offers a relaxed spot for drinks, especially during happy hour or late at night. Outdoor seating adds a nice bonus to the beautifully decorated interior.

People are saying

"The Happy Hour food has bold, bright flavors and is outstanding."

"The food here is fantastic and delicious."

"The staff here is so thoughtful and friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm Monday through Friday with $1 oysters.

2

The happy hour oysters are now $2, up from $1 in the past.

3

Expect a 20% gratuity automatically added to your bill.

07
Taco Lulรบ image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with rustic decor and vibrant colors creates a fun, cozy atmosphere despite often feeling hot inside. It operates as an order-at-the-counter spot with indoor and outdoor seating, including a bar area. Music tends to be loud rap and hip hop, adding to a lively but sometimes intense vibe.

A full bar sits near the restrooms with assembly line style service. Counter service lets you order drinks directly at the bar.

Outdoor seating includes a patio area that offers a relaxed spot to dine. A separate room provides indoor seating, but the outdoor space stands out for casual meals.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is so flavorful."

"You can get a drink at the full bar in the back."

"The outdoor space is really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 5pm daily, Monday to Friday.

2

The restaurant has kiosks for ordering to avoid waiting in line.

3

Expect to pay around $22 for three tacos and a drink.

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