Watch CBS News

Chicago's Best Summer Outdoor Food & Drink Destinations

Ben Larson, CBS 2 Intern

CHICAGO (CBS) — Chicago is one of the best cities in the world to enjoy summer. It offers warm temperatures, sunshine, festivals, beaches and most of all, great outdoor food and drink options. The next time you find yourself in Chicago on a warm summer evening, check out these restaurants and bars.

Parlor Pizza Bar

108 N. Green St, Chicago, IL 60607

(312) 600-6090

http://www.parlorchicago.com

Located in Chicago's West Loop, Parlor Pizza Bar has it all. The outdoor space features a huge rooftop deck, a Ping-Pong table, and plenty of places to soak up Chicago's beautiful skyline. Filled with a wide variety of beers, the summer's best cocktails, delicious pizza and mouthwatering appetizers, Parlor Pizza Bar is an ideal summer happy hour destination.

90 Miles Cuban Cafe

2540 W. Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

(773) 227-2822

http://www.90milescubancafe.com

Have you tried Cuban food? Regardless of the answer, head to 90 Miles. This lively establishment is welcoming, with a rustic atmosphere. Make sure to order their empanadas or the Cuban sandwich. They have three locations but my favorite is on Armitage, as it offers the most outdoor space. By the time you leave, you'll already be planning to come back.

The Smoke Daddy

1804 W. Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 772-6656

http://www.thesmokedaddy.com

BBQ lovers, look no further. Smoke Daddy offers up some of the most mouthwatering BBQ fare in Chicago, and their new expansion of the restaurant includes a fantastic outdoor bar to go along with some prime outdoor seating. Most days Smoke Daddy even has live music. So grab a beer, order the incredible ribs and eat your heart out.

The Drinking Bird

2201 N. Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

(773) 472-9920

http://drinkingbirdchicago.com

Travel back in time and visit The Drinking Bird, a Chicago bar with a unique 1960s theme. The Lincoln Park hot spot is known for its retro style cocktails and delicious burgers. The outdoor patio boasts a large fireplace open all summer and couches for comfortable seating. It's the perfect spot for a late evening cocktail.

Three Aces

1321 W. Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60607

(312) 243-1577

https://threeaceschicago.com

Escape your comfort zone and try Three Aces. A biker gastropub located in Little Italy, Three Aces is known for its All-American beer list as well as exquisite food. Don't be intimidated by its appearance; the dark Rock 'n' Roll theme all adds to the unique experience. Everyone is friendly and the food will knock your socks off. On warm nights make sure to get a table outside. The string lights overhead are reminiscent of a backyard cookout – one that has a few bearded, tattooed bikers on the guest list.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.