The South Loop, a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago, boasts a fantastic array of restaurants offering delightful outdoor dining experiences. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a lively brunch, this guide highlights 19 top-notch establishments perfect for enjoying the city's beautiful weather. We've curated this list based on a blend of ambiance, cuisine, and overall diner satisfaction, ensuring a memorable outdoor dining experience in the heart of the South Loop.
Finding Your Perfect South Loop Patio: A Guide to Diverse Dining
Choosing the right outdoor dining spot depends heavily on your preferences. Do you crave a bustling atmosphere or a quiet, romantic setting? Are you looking for fine dining or a casual bite? The South Loop caters to all tastes. This guide categorizes options to help you easily find your ideal patio:
Romantic & Intimate Outdoor Dining Spots:
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RPM Italian: With its elegant ambiance and sophisticated menu, RPM Italian offers a luxurious outdoor dining experience. The patio is perfect for a romantic evening. Their pasta dishes are a standout.
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The Dearborn: This upscale tavern boasts a charming, intimate patio. Their menu features classic American dishes with a modern twist. Expect excellent cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere.
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Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: If you're looking for a romantic setting with a touch of old-world charm, Bavette's is an excellent choice. Their steakhouse-style menu and intimate patio create a memorable dining experience.
Lively & Social Outdoor Dining Options:
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Beatrix: Beatrix offers a vibrant atmosphere with a large outdoor patio, making it ideal for groups or a casual gathering. Their menu offers a wide selection of healthy and delicious options.
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Formento's: This Italian restaurant provides a lively and bustling outdoor seating area. Their generous portions and lively atmosphere make it perfect for a celebratory meal.
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The Purple Pig: Known for its delicious Mediterranean tapas, The Purple Pig offers a lively outdoor setting perfect for sharing food and drinks with friends.
Casual & Relaxed Outdoor Dining Spots:
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Little Goat Diner: Stephanie Izard's casual diner offers creative dishes and a relaxed outdoor setting. It's great for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
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Monteverde: While known for its exceptional pasta, Monteverde also has a delightful, less formal patio area perfect for a laid-back Italian meal.
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Girl & the Goat: Though Stephanie Izard's flagship restaurant is primarily known for its indoor dining, a smaller patio is available during warmer months, offering a taste of her inventive global cuisine.
Unique & Thematic Outdoor Dining:
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Ada Street: Known for its eclectic menu and lively atmosphere, Ada Street's outdoor patio offers a unique and memorable dining experience. They often feature seasonal menus.
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Cira: This modern Mediterranean restaurant boasts a stylish outdoor patio with a unique ambiance, perfect for a special occasion.
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Aba: Enjoy modern Mediterranean fare in a beautifully designed outdoor space. Aba's focus on sharing plates makes it ideal for a group outing.
Outdoor Dining with a View:
- Cerise: Located atop the Thompson Hotel, Cerise offers stunning city views from its rooftop patio. Their menu features delicious cocktails and light bites.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:
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Pequod's Pizza: Enjoy a Chicago-style deep-dish pizza outdoors at one of Pequod's locations. It's a casual, classic Chicago experience.
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Public House: This neighborhood gastropub offers a cozy outdoor patio perfect for a relaxed meal and drinks.
Family-Friendly Outdoor Dining:
- Andros Taverna: This Greek restaurant has a large, family-friendly patio.
Options for Different Cuisines:
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South Loop Fish Fry: Enjoy fresh seafood with outdoor seating during warmer months.
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Park Grill: While more upscale, the Park Grill offers a luxurious patio experience next to Millennium Park, boasting stunning views.
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Rosebud on Rush: Though technically not in the South Loop, it's a close enough neighbor to merit inclusion – this classic Italian restaurant features a large patio.
Choosing the Right Patio for Your Needs
This diverse selection ensures there's a perfect outdoor dining spot for every occasion and preference in the South Loop. Remember to check restaurant websites for patio availability and reservations, especially during peak seasons. Enjoy your al fresco dining experience in Chicago's vibrant South Loop!
