Edition: Summer Fun in Chicago
Chicago Waterfront Dining
Author: Theresa Page
Can’t swim? No problem. Enjoy the water without getting wet at these Chicago restaurants.
Summer’s here and Chicago restaurants pull out the patio chairs and throw back the awnings. Here’s a look some of the city’s best waterfront dining spots.
CASTAWAYS
1603 N. Lake Shore Dr., 773-281-1200
If you really want to swim – or just soak up some sun -- head to this ultra causal American spot, which is located in the North Avenue Beach House, a cruise-ship inspired building just steps from the beach and Lake Michigan. Whether you prefer a grab-and-go snack on the beach, or an alfresco lunch on the rooftop, Castaways aims to please. In addition to the fabulous beachscape, Castaways has views of the Chicago skyline and Lincoln Park, plus the popular Lakefront Trail. The menu offers appetizers, salads, sandwiches and summery cocktails.
DELACOSTA
465 E. Illinois St., 312-321-8930
Looking for some Latin heat? Head to the east end of the River East Art Center to this splashy Nuevo Latino spot and sate the craving. Delacosta features multiple seating options, including a cabana-fitted solarium that overlooks Ogden Slip. If the water view gets boring, the restaurant’s theatric interior should peak your interest. Celebrity chef Douglas Rodriguez features a menu of ceviches and tapas, plus heartier fare like a bone-in ribeye with a Rioja reduction and crispy crackling pork with black bean puree.
RIVA
700 E. Grand Ave., 312-644-7482
This seafood-focused Phil Stefani restaurant has amazing views of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan and the boats moving in and out of Navy Pier from its second floor pier perch. The nautically inspired dining room features expansive windows and a menu of choices like Dover sole, swordfish Oscar and cedar-planked salmon, plus meaty choices like a filet mignon and NY strip steak. Riva Café, which is on the main level of the pier, offers both indoor and outdoor dining and a more casual menu with choices like burgers, Caesar salad and a club sandwich.
DICK’S LAST RESORT
435 E. Illinois St., 312-836-7870
This boisterous eatery is located on the west end of the River East Art Center, near Navy Pier and Lake Michigan. Dick's is jammed in the summer thanks to its water views; the eatery overlooks the boat docks at Ogden Slip (the slip is parallel to the north bank of the Chicago River). Dick’s features both land and water alfresco dining; there are patio tables that overlook the water activity, plus a floating dock with seating. The menu features lighter fare like burgers, sandwiches and salads, and heartier “buckets ‘o grub,” actual buckets loaded with barbecue ribs, crab cakes or fried shrimp and fries.
FULTON’S ON THE RIVER
315 N. LaSalle St., 312-822-0100
This upscale River North seafood and steak spot is located in the Chicago Landmarkdesignated Reid, Murdoch & Co. Building, right on the Chicago River. The massive two-story eatery has views of the river on both floors, but the best view is from restaurant’s expansive alfresco café. The gorgeous Loop skyline looms across the river, and the water taxis, commercial and pleasure boats float mere yards away from your enviable alfresco table. The menu changes frequently, but includes mainstays like a bone-in filet mignon; Alaskan crab legs, lobster tails and sushi.
NEW TABLES IN TOWN
Hop Haus
646 N. Franklin St., 312-280-8832
This River North spot features multiple on-the-menu burgers, plus an extensive list of toppings to make-your-own. Meat offerings include: ground beef, ostrich, and kangaroo. On the menu: beef burger with pepper jack cheese, avocado and chipotle sauce; vegan burger with mushrooms, avocado and Italian dressing.
The Gage
24 S. Michigan Ave., 312-372-4243
Located right across the from Millennium Park’s Crown Fountain, the menu runs the gamut from snacks to fullsized entrees, and the bar offers offbeat European beers and an extensive whiskey list. On the menu: seared tuna with pink peppercorn citrus sauce; Guinness-battered fish and chips.
Blu Coral
1265 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-252-2020
This contemporary Wicker Park spot offers something for everyone with an extensive lineup of sushi and
rolls, plus a full menu of Japanese fare for those who prefer their fish cooked. On the menu: ginseng-spiced chicken with teriyaki-plum sauce; pan-fried sea bass with lime-miso sauce.
Castaways
1603 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
One of the best places on the beach for great food and ice cold drinks is Castaways at the North Avenue Boathouse. The first level features the Ice Cream Café and Beachside Burgers with casual walk-up stands. Castaways Bar & Grill, on the rooftop features great appetizers, sandwiches, fresh salads and refreshing desserts.
Riva
700 E. Grand Avenue , Chicago, IL 60611
For a chic atmosphere and fine dining, Navy Pier guests should visit RIVA. Visitors can dine on specialty steak, seafood and pasta while viewing Chicago's epic skyline. If casual dining is desired, guests can choose RIVA Café below the main restaurant for great food without the candlelight.
Contact: (312) 644- RIVA
Dick's Last Resort
435 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611
This rowdy riverside chain eatery is located in the River East Plaza, just west of tourist-heavy Navy Pier.
Fulton's on the River
315 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60610
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave. , Chicago, IL 60605
Navy Pier, one of the top tourist attractions in Chicago and the country, is visited by almost nine million visitors per years. From dining to shopping, boat tours to countless entertainment options, Navy Pier in Chicago is a must-stop for a wide range of visitors--Chicago residents already know and love it!
Watch our latest video offering and take a quick, two-minute narrated tour through the highlights at Navy Pier, stern to bow.
