From downtown heading north to Edgewater, here’s a look at this local’s favorite Lakefront Trail spots to enjoy a meal or drink.
Ohio Street Beach
Caffè Oliva, located at the foot of Navy Pier, offers Mediterranean-inspired fare, playful cocktails, and is tucked away on a beautiful stretch of the lakefront. If you’re hungry, I recommend their grilled calamari and splitting one of their flatbreads alongside a glass of wine.
Oak Street Beach
Situated upon the sandy shores of Chicago’s most famous Beach, Oak Street Beach Food + Drink is a lush oasis –complete with real palm trees!—offering some of the city’s best people watching including beach goers, Michigan Avenue shoppers, and the Lakefront fitness buffs.
North Avenue Beach
At The Shore Club grab yourself a cabana or daybed and treat your self to their fun frozen drink options like Frosé All Day, Frozignon Blanc, or a Cold Fashioned. Looking for something shareable? Opt for the large format Beach Party cocktail that’s served in a giant copper pineapple or a flamingo.
Diversey Harbor
Located inside the newly renovated Theater on the Lake, the skyline views at The Lakefront Restaurant pair perfectly with the lauded Midwestern fare and beverages. Cozy up on their spacious patio or snag a spot inside by the floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Lake, bike path, and Lincoln Park.
Montrose Beach
The Dock at Montrose is a sprawling, 3,000-square-foot beach bar offering up burgers, tacos, salads, and live music just a stone’s throw from the water. Another perk is that it’s also dog-friendly, so it’s a popular stop for locals after bringing their canine companions to the nearby dog beach.
Hollywood Beach
Probably the “beachiest” of all, Nacho Mama’s is a great, casual spot right off Hollywood Beach. A favorite with locals, this spot is ideal for a later afternoon snack (yes, they do have nachos. And yes, they’re great) and a couple of cocktails while soaking up both the sun and atmosphere.