Edition: Summer Fun in Chicago
Chicago Outdoor Bars and Beer Gardens
Author: Audarshia Townsend
Enjoy your summer nightlife at these outdoor bars.
BRAVO TAPAS AND LOUNGE
2047 W. Division St., 773-278-2727
Hang out at the city’s only outdoor mojito lounge, which feels like you’re in the heart of South Beach. Infectious Latin music blares down Division Street as guests indulge in such flavors as coconut, pineapple and apple.
CITIZEN BAR
364 W. Erie St., 312-640-1156
The 2,000-square-foot patio and rooftop deck should be more than enough room to fit summer revelers at this River North tavern. Cocktails such as the Pimm’s sparkling lemonade (enough to serve four) give a reason to return. Citizen also offers non-alcoholic frozen fruit ice teas in peach-mango and raspberry red currant.
CRU CAFÉ AND WINE BAR
25 E. Delaware Pl., 312-337-4001
The recently expanded Gold Coast wine lounge kept its very popular people-watching sidewalk café that’s perched right on the corner. Chill out a while with a glass or bottle of Euro vino and watch all the stylish area residents walk by.
ROOM 21
2110 S. Wabash Ave., 312-328-1198
The inviting outdoor garden of this brand-new South Loop restaurant feels more like you’re lounging at some celebrity’s luxurious home. It’s tucked away so it feels like a private retreat, and at nighttime, each tree sparkles with miniature lights.
RED IVY
3525 N. Clark St., 773-472-0900
Before and after Chicago Cubs games, this sports bar/lounge is the place to go for diehard and fair-weather fans alike. This spacious spot fills up quickly, so go early and snag a seat by the windows, which open onto the sidewalk—making it a prime spot for taking in the sights and sounds of Clark Street. And with their impressive multimedia display (including two 120-inch screens and TVs above the urinals), it’s the next best thing to being at the game.
The Magnificent Mile, along Michigan Ave, was originally called Michigan Boulevard, or "Boul Mich", and NoMi offers one of the most stunning views from 17 floors up.
EMBER GRILLE
320 N. Dearborn St., 312-836-5499
A true hidden gem in the neighborhood, this new addition to the Westin Chicago River North should draw guests looking for a less-hectic hangout. The stunning outdoor garden is ideal for cozying up and sipping a Hana Lounge Lemonade (with sparkling wine, Grey Goose Citron and housemade lemonade), Caipirinha or pomegranate mojito.
NoMI
800 N. Michigan Ave., 312-239-4030
One of the more fashionable rooftop decks in the city, NoMI offers a beautiful zen-like garden on the seventh floor of the Park Hyatt. There are also a number of sophisticated sippers, including the osmobellini and Looking Glass (with champagne and Absolut Rasberri).
PIAZZA BELLA
2116 W. Roscoe St., 773-477-7330
Roscoe Village, an uber-hip ‘hood only 12 minutes from downtown, has gained a following for its cool boutiques, eateries and bars. And this Italian-focused restaurant hits a high note with loyals for great food, an outdoor cafe and its annual “Lemon Kisses Festival.” The event features frothy cocktails, lemon-y bites and live music.
A SCENE FOR YOUR TEEN
A night out at the bar doesn't mean you can't eat well.No ID, no problem at these night spots for the under-21 crew.
Blue Chicago Store
534 N. Clark St., 312-661-1003
Young people get a taste of the blues at the Saturdaynight “Down in the Basement” series. The city’s only all-ages blues venue features local acts from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. It’s also smoke free. Must be accompanied by an adult over 21. $7 adults; $5 under 21; free for under 12.
Cupcake Lounge
160 E. Pearson St., 312-573-5154
Head to the Greenhouse at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago for the “Saturday Night Cupcake Buffet” that’s certain to give you a sugar high. The pintsized perfections include Boston cream pie, double chocolate fudge, carrot cake, coconut tres leches, hazelnut praline, vanilla buttercream, New York cheesecake and tiramisu. 9:00 p.m.-midnight. $18 for an unlimited selection, 4 for $12, and 2 for $8.
Carolina Caramel
1511 S. State St., 312-922-5007
Sunday through Thursday, deejays spin old-school soul and hip-hop. It’s a sweet soundtrack when you’re munching on decadent, homestyle desserts at this South Loop lounge that’s also alcohol-free. There’s no dance floor, but the owner doesn’t mind guests grooving—as long as it doesn’t get out of control. No cover.
Ember Grille
320 N. Dearborn St., Chicago, IL 60610
Contemporary American cuisine located inside the Westin River North.
NoMi
800 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611
Located on the seventh floor of the Park Hyatt Chicago, NoMi boasts stunning views of Michigan Avenue.
Park Hyatt Chicago
800 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611
One of the city's top hotels and with a commanding view of the Mag Mile, the Historic Chicago Water Tower, The Hershey's Store and much more. The restaurant here, NoMI, is consistently ranked as one of the best in town, especially for their coveted window seats.
