Best of Chicago: The 20 Best Rooftop and Patio Bars

[caption id="attachment_1179" align="alignnone" width="850"] A gorgeous room at Cindys. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rnrn Looking for a place to grab a cold, refreshing drink on a hot, summer, Chicago day? Here's a list of my favorite rooftop and patio bars in the city. rnrnSummer is in full swing and that means traveling to your favorite watering hole with your friends for some drinks. You can go to any old bar whenever you want, but in the June-August months, you want to take advantage of the beautiful weather. Don't get me wrong, I love a good hole-in-the-wall pub, but sometimes we want to take in the sights while getting some rays.rnrnChicago may be known for the unbearable winters, but we can soak up the sun with the best of them. The following is a list of my favorite rooftop and patio bars in the city. From the Loop, to Lakeview East, Wrigleyville to River North, there's something in my top 20 for everyone. Time for some Suns Out, Guns Out action!rnrn[nextpost teaser="Gourmet Burgers and Cold Beer" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1176" align="aligncenter" width="850"] The patio at Chefs Burger Bistro. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 20. Chef's Burger Bistro rn http://chefsburgerbistrochicago.com rnrn164 E Grand Ave.rnChicago, IL 60611rnrnWe kick this list off at Chef's Burger Bistro. The front entrance to the bar and restaurant is featured by their outdoor patio. One cool aspect about this place is their half-indoor, half-outdoor, wraparound bar. Start by slugging some refreshers outside and if bad weather rolls in, take just a few steps around and indoors, but don't close that tab! Their top-shelf liquor will keep you hanging around for more. They also have a private room upstairs for events and parties if you're looking for a venue.rnrnNow Chef's Burger Bistro is more than just a place to get beers and cocktails. The word "burger" is in the name after all! With plenty of patties and buns to choose from, you can get a simple cheeseburger, but I highly suggest one of their signature plates. Don't treat the sides as an oversight, though. You gotta get their truffle fries or the deep fried pickles to complement your entree.rnrn[nextpost teaser="One Bar, Many Different Looks" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1186" align="aligncenter" width="850"] The outdoor patio at Benchmark. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 19. Benchmark rn http://benchmarkchicago.com rnrn1510 N Wells St.rnChicago, IL 60610rnrnDepending on the time and day you go, Benchmark could have one of many different feels. You could go for a quiet lunch or an intimate dinner during the week. On Friday and Saturday nights, feel free to join the big crowd for late-night drinks. Also on Saturdays is their buffet brunch which has so much value. Finally, on Sundays, throw on your favorite jersey and catch all of the NFL action on one of their many TVs.rnrnI love Benchmark but the reason it's so low on my list is because it doesn't have a traditional rooftop or patio. What Benchmark does have is a second story on one side of their bar and that side just so happens to have a retractable roof. In addition, they do have a small outdoor eating space in front of the building. Believe me though, if you get a spot upstairs with the top popped open, you won't feel like you're in a bar!rnrn[nextpost teaser="Get Wrigley Experience Without a Ticket" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1185" align="aligncenter" width="850"] The storefront at Casey Morans. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 18. Casey Moran's rn http://caseymorans.com rnrn3660 N Clark St.rnChicago, IL 60613rnrnLooking for a bar in Wrigleyville to watch the Cubs game and be so close that you can actually hear the stadium? Casey Moran's is your place to be. Located across the street from left field, you'll be able to hear the Bleacher Bums chant and cheer for every home run ball parked onto Waveland avenue. I love to go here to watch the games and get some color sitting on their beautiful rooftop bar.rnrnMatching the theme from the famous Wrigley Field, Casey Moran's rooftop is decorated with fake ivy lining the walls for an authentic experience. Their outdoor space may not be the biggest, but as long as you beat the crowd, you'll be sure to have a great time. Even if you have trouble finding a table, head on down to their beer garden on the first floor that features a retractable roof. The sun can't hide from you here. They have plenty of different party packages to choose from, so open up your contact list and hit up your buddies!rnrn[nextpost teaser="Live it Up at a Low Cost" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1190" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Nice surroundings at Kirkwood. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 17. Kirkwood Bar &amp; Grill rn http://kirkwoodbar.com rnrn2934 N Sheffield Ave.rnChicago, IL 60657rnrnKirkwood Bar &amp; Grill is a fun, popular neighborhood bar that draws a young crowd. They have plenty of space inside with their multi-room layout, but the real treat is out back in their beer and wine garden. The outdoor bar will help you get your drinks quick and often as you keep tabs on the big game that's featured on their TVs.rnrnKirkwood has a decent selection of beer, covering the usual domestics while still offering a good amount of craft beers. If you're with a small group, get some value and order one of their many fish bowls to share. On Thursdays, they have an excellent slider deal: just $5 for three burger sliders. This bar could get a bit crowded at times and the patio is a local favorite, so I suggest you head on over early and don't leave your table unattended!rnrn[nextpost teaser="Head to the Top at Rock Bottom" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1184" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Surrounded by buildings at Rock Bottom. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 16. Rock Bottom rn http://www.rockbottom.com/locations/chicago rnrn1 W Grand Ave.rnChicago, IL 60610rnrnIt's hard to beat the location of this next bar: Rock Bottom. Smack dab in the middle of River North, this area is one that bars and restaurants lust over, and Rock Bottom has capitalized in a big way. It's been a long day of your girlfriend dragging you store to store on Michigan avenue, and now you're looking for a bar to kick back at. This place is a safe bet to ease your mind.rnrnTake in the great view of the cities skyscrapers on their rooftop bar. This space is so versatile where you can go with a group of friends, or find a quiet table in the corner with your significant other. Starting July 30th, Rock Bottom will launch a new happy hour on Monday-Friday from 3:30pm-6:30pm. Head on over after work or before dinner and embrace the awesome deals that differ each day. Their menu runs long with different signature drinks and entrees, as well as the traditional favorites.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Rally at Derby" slider="true"]rnrn rnrn[caption id="attachment_1191" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Great patio to hang out at Derby Bar and Grill. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 15. Derby Bar &amp; Grill rn http://www.derbychicago.com rnrn1224 W Webster Ave.rnChicago, IL 60614rnrnDerby may not look like much from the curb, but step inside and you'll form a different opinion. This bar has the same cozy feeling of a neighborhood bar mixed with a southern style twist. Everything from the name to the menu reflects and embraces their roots from the south. For whiskey fans, they have bottles and bottles of top-shelf whiskey and bourbon to satisfy your needs. Enjoy their delicious shrimp and grits on their outdoor patio for a true southern experience.rnrnIn order to fully embrace their name, they can't do the Kentucky Derby half-assed. Every first week of May, head on over for their annual Derby party and watch the ponies. Just a heads up, this isn't just an average get-together and watch party. Men and women come fully dressed in their best Derby outfits, so girls, find the biggest and best hats you can get your hands on. They even have real horses on the sidewalk outside of their bar for the day! No one does the Derby better than Derby.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Catch a Live Show at Joe's" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1192" align="aligncenter" width="850"] The rooftop at Joes. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 14. Joe's Bar rn http://joesbar.com rnrn940 W Weed St.rnChicago, IL 60622rnrnThis next bar will seem like a similar place to the previously mentioned Derby, but on a much larger scale. Joe's Bar, better known in the area as Joe's on Weed, has the southern-country feel, but it's one giant party all year round. In a warehouse-style of space, they have live country bands perform regularly, a Kentucky Derby party and most notably an Off-Track Betting station attached to the bar. Do your homework on the upcoming races and win yourself some money.rnrnJoe's Bar has both a first-floor patio as well as a rooftop bar to give everyone an opportunity to catch some rays. Their food menu has all of the bar favorites: burgers, wings, pizza, chicken tenders and best of all, it's all so affordable. Their huge space is perfect to plan your next party or to go hang out with a bunch of your friends.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Enjoy a Happy Hour Mule" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1177" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Outside at Zella. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 13. Zella rn http://www.zellachicago.com rnrn1983 N Clybourn Ave.rnChicago, IL 60614rnrnLincoln Park is home to DePaul University and has the reputation of a young, college, party crowd. Therefore, it's hard to find a quiet bar, or a pub with open tables outside. Your problems are solved at Zella. It's a little further out west in relation to the typical, popular bars so the college kids and underaged won't make the trek. Rest assured, this bar is NOT slow because it's a dump. Even if the bar was packed, their outdoor patio is very spacious and flush with tables, but it also has plenty of open space for "standing room only" patrons.rnrnThe biggest catch at Zella is their happy hour deal. On Fridays from 5pm-9pm, you can have all the $3.50 Moscow mules and $4 draft beers your liver can handle. This isn't your average happy hour that only lasts until 6pm. Where else can you have this deal until 9pm? But wait, there are more deals! They also have a solid weekend brunch deal that includes bottomless mimosas. Oh yeah, that's real.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Deep in the Heart of Chicago" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1180" align="aligncenter" width="850"] The North Room at Old Crow. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 12. Old Crow Smokehouse rn http://www.oldcrowsmokehouse.com rnrn3506 N Clark St.rnChicago, IL 60657rnrnOur next bar takes us back up north to Wrigleyville and the infamous Clark street stretch of bars. Old Crow Smokehouse is one of the better destinations for fans of country music with live music frequently being performed. Not to mention you can get some authentic, southern-style BBQ food that will satisfy your taste buds. Roll up your sleeves and get messy with their smoky ribs, or save your shirt and keep it clean with their pulled pork sliders.rnrnOne-half of the enormous bar is capped by a retractable, window-paned roof. Doesn't matter if the roof is open or not, you'll be able to gaze up to the sky and catch some rays. In addition to this, the other half of the top serves as a rooftop bar. Old Crow is perfect for large groups, or to plan your next party. One thing is certain, you'll leave one of Wrigleyville's premier bars with good vibes.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Feel at Home at Sheffield's" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1172" align="aligncenter" width="850"] The beer garden at Sheffields. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 11. Sheffield's rn http://www.sheffieldschicago.com rnrn3258 N Sheffield Ave.rnChicago, IL 60657rnrnWhat's so great about Sheffield's is the environment and atmosphere inside and outside of the bar. It's a neighborhood bar with tons of charm, and although it's in the Wrigleyville area, you'll escape the usual young, party crowd due to its southern location. The quaint beer and wine garden has a homey-feeling that will keep you and your friends comfortable. With plenty of picnic benches and live, outdoor music, they created an entertaining and desirable vibe.rnrnWith their wide selection of craft beer, both draft and bottled, you'll never leave thirsty, and you'll undoubtedly find something new to try. Due to their huge drink menu, you can also find plenty of cheap beers and cocktails. Finally, their cooks run a mean kitchen. You're going to want to head over for dinner and grab some of their well-known BBQ. I highly suggest their pulled pork or brisket sandwiches, but it's really hard to go wrong here.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Big Things Come in Small Packages" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1175" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Great view of the river at Tiny Hatt. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 10. Tiny Hatt rn http://www.tinyhatt.com rnrn55 Chicago RiverwalkrnChicago, IL 60601rnrnWe kick off the top 10 by featuring a bar on Chicago's esteemed riverwalk, and Tiny Hatt is my favorite of the bunch. While open for lunch and dinner, the refined drinks are constantly flowing here. Although they do have a food menu, it's a limited selection, and the prices may be a tad on the expensive side. This bar was without a doubt built for one reason: enjoying a beverage in the heart of the city.rnrnWe hear it all the time in real estate: location, location, location. Tiny Hatt has that in spades. Take a seat and look out to your left, you got the Merchandise Mart. Gander on down to the right, the Trump Tower and "Honeycomb Buildings." Being on the Chicago River, the coolest thing about this bar is the fact that you can drive your boat right up, hop off and start drinking. Whether you're coming here for some after-work drinks, or visiting Chicago and looking for a gathering place in the Loop, Tiny Hatt is the place to be.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Surf and Flirt" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1174" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Crisp and clean on the rooftop at Mahalo. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 9. Mahalo rn http://www.mahalochicago.com rnrn1501 N Milwaukee Ave.rnChicago, IL 60622rnrnWithout a doubt, you'll get a new, different experience at our next bar. That is, unless you've traveled to the Hawaiian islands before. Mahalo takes the island culture, vibe, food and drink, and touches down smack dab in Chicago. Their rooftop patio may not be the biggest space on this list, but does any other place have fire dancers to fit the theme? I didn't think so. If you're looking for Mahalo, just keep an eye out for the beautiful white brick building!rnrnIf you couldn't already tell, this place is probably best suited to bring a date to. Head on over for their happy hour (Tuesdays-Thursdays 2-5pm) and enjoy discounted pina colada shots. Stay after and indulge in their thirst-quenching Maui mules. Take my word for it guys, this is a safe bet to bring your girlfriend whose good graces you'll be in. Just a heads up, Mahalo has just recently opened their doors so beat the crowd. Otherwise, if you're reading this it's too late...rnrn[nextpost teaser="My Last Stop in Wrigleyville" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1189" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Deuces and the Diamond Club. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 8. Deuce's and the Diamond Club rn http://www.deucesandthediamondclub.com rnrn3505 N Clark St.rnChicago, IL 60657rnrnWe go back up north to Wrigleyville for our final bar in the famed neighborhood. Deuce's and the Diamond Club may sound like an after-hours gentlemen's club, but it's no different than most other bars surrounding it. That is except for one key difference. Something that not only makes it different than the other Wrigley bars, but Deuce's has something that no other bar on this list can offer: a pool. Now granted this pool is only a few feet deep and there are some rules (keep your shorts or pants on, no splashing, etc.) but nonetheless there's a pool in the middle of their outdoor patio!rnrnThe patio at Deuce's is more than just a pool, though. The spacious area has a combination of small tables and benches, with group cabanas you can rent out for your party. To go along with the first-floor space, they have a second level to their bar which has a balcony overlooking the patio. If you don't want to mess around with the fools in the pool, grab a seat from up top and laugh at the shenanigans below.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Dress to the Nines at the Trump" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1188" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Great view of the North Side at Terrace at Trump. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 7. The Terrace at Trump, Trump Tower rn https://www.trumphotelcollection.com/chicago/rooftop-restaurants-chicago.php rnrn401 N Wabash Ave.rnChicago, IL 60611rnrnThe Terrace at Trump hands-down is the most desirable bar on this list. That is if you're looking for a business-casual atmosphere with jaw-dropping views. Located right on top of the Chicago River, you'll never want to leave your seat and instead take in all the views the city has to offer. During the summer months in Chicago, Navy Pier sets off fireworks every Wednesday night. Your POV from The Terrace is a perfect place to sit and enjoy the show.rnrnWith the amazing location and view comes a heavy price tag. This won't be a cheap date, but it will be totally worth it for special occasions. Even if it's just for a single drink, you'll want to see The Terrace at Trump for yourself. Now they do have an indoor bar as well, and they close their doors at midnight, so go early and treat yourself to the finer things.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Legendary Margaritas and Tacos" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1187" align="alignnone" width="850"] Packed outdoors at Big Star. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 6. Big Star rn http://bigstarchicago.com rnrn1531 N Damen Ave.rnChicago, IL 60622rnrnChicago has plenty of taco joints for you to discover, but you may put this next place at the top of your list. Big Star has become a sensation in the city for big groups to gather, chow down on tacos and throw back some margaritas. This place has a super, laid-back environment to make you feel totally comfortable. Just as well known as their food and drinks is their outdoor patio because, well, a big majority of their seating is outdoors. Not to mention if you are indoors, their skylights bring in tons of natural light for an outdoor feel.rnrnSo let's talk about that famous food and drink menu. I'm a bit of a wuss and can't eat spicy food, so I went with the taco de papas con rajas and absolutely loved it. Big Star has a number of different types of tacos though so there's something for everyone's taste buds. You're gonna want to call an Uber to get here so you can guzzle down their strong margaritas, and they sell them by the individual glass or by the pitcher. I do have to mention that it is cash only here so don't forget to stop at the ATM.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Southern State of Mind...in Chicago" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1173" align="aligncenter" width="850"] A beautiful patio at Parson's. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 5. Parson's Chicken &amp; Fish rn http://www.parsonschickenandfish.com rnrn2952 W Armitage Ave.rnChicago, IL 60647rnrnWho says Chicagoans can't feel like they're in the south? Parson's Chicken &amp; Fish lands at number 5, and will take you out of the big city lights for a more low-key and humble feeling. This patio is by far one of the more unique ones in the city. No typical high top tables or big lounge couches. Parson's keeps it much simpler with park-like benches, great for big groups. But maybe the most distinctive feature about this outdoor space: the ping-pong table.rnrnNow obviously we can't talk about Parson's Chicken &amp; Fish without touching on their chicken and fish. Fried chicken, hush puppies, cheese curd fritters and of course the unmatched fish fry. Find all of this and much, much more here. Their deep, outstanding menu doesn't stop at the food. With a variety of different types of beers and cocktails, you can grab a pitcher for the table, or a frozen margarita for yourself on especially hot days. Quick note for the designated drivers and kids, they also carry a rare soda which has a spot on my Mt. Rushmore of sodas: Green River.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Ping Pong in the West Loop" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1178" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Outside Parlor Pizza Bar. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 4. Parlor Pizza Bar rn http://www.parlorchicago.com rnrn108 N Green St.rnChicago, IL 60607rnrnThe West Loop is known for their endless amount of pristine restaurants but do any have a better patio and rooftop than Parlor Pizza Bar? That's right, they have both a first level patio, highlighted by their ping pong tables, and a rooftop area for a more intimate feeling. The rustic charm fits right into the trendy area, yet they still stand apart from the rest. The United Center is just a mile and a half away so Parlor Pizza makes for a great pre-game spot before cheering on the Bulls and Blackhawks.rnrnTime to talk about their delicious menu. For Bloody Mary fans out there, you can go crazy at their make it yourself station. I've seen some pretty interesting concoctions that include bacon and shish kebabs made of Italian sausage and olives. The pizza ain't too shabby either! Their classic thin crust and creative, signature toppings are perfect to share for the table. Doesn't matter what you're in the mood for: brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, they got it all.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Best Seats in the House" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1179" align="aligncenter" width="850"] A gorgeous room at Cindys. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 3. Cindy's rn http://www.cindysrooftop.com rnrn12 S Michigan Ave.rnChicago, IL 60603rnrnIf you're reading this list looking for bars with the best views, you've come to the right spot. Cindy's is a prime location in the heart of the city with so much to offer as far as sights go. Located on Michigan avenue, you have Millennium Park, featuring The Bean, Lake Michigan, the skyline and much more to gaze at. The fire pit on their outdoor terrace provides a comfortable touch on those cool summer nights.rnrnIf you're planning a lunch or dinner here, there's simply no way around the price, but the atmosphere will make it worth it. Cindy's is open till as late as 3am on Saturdays, and a different feature they offer here is a late night menu starting at 11pm. Unless you're rolling in the dough, you won't want to make a habit of shelling out here, but it's absolutely worth going every so often.rnrn[nextpost teaser="Catch the L to Homeslice" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1182" align="aligncenter" width="850"] A unique seating arrangement at Homeslice. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 2. Homeslice rn http://www.getsomehomie.com rnrn938 W Webster Ave.rnChicago, IL 60614rnrnJump on the Brown, Purple or Red Line "L" train and get off at Fullerton for a true trendy experience. Just two blocks south of the Fullerton stop is one of my favorite all-around bars in the city: Homeslice. You gotta try one of their signature, thin-crust style pizzas, and no need to fret if you're vegetarian, they have plenty of delicious options there as well. The locally-known brunch is stacked with unique pizzas and cocktails that will keep you tantalized. Grab a Moscow mule, enjoy their outdoor patio, and pay a little extra to take home the iconic copper mug!rnrnYou don't go to Homeslice just for the food and drink though. Their beer and wine garden is unmatched when it comes to decor. Park benches, rocking chairs, lounge furniture and most notably, a gutted camper filled with extra seating. The train rolling past every 15 or so minutes doesn't play a disturbance, instead it gives you the feeling of a true Chicagoan. Oh and the inside? The inside is pretty dope as well. Enjoy!rnrn[nextpost teaser="Hotel! Motel! Holiday Inn!" slider="true"] rnrn[caption id="attachment_1170" align="aligncenter" width="850"] Great skyline view from The J Parker. Photo Credit: Yelp[/caption]rn 1. The J. Parker, Hotel Lincoln rn http://www.jparkerchicago.com/ rnrn1816 N Clark St.rnChicago, IL 60614rnrnFinally at number 1, I had to polish off this list with the first place that comes to my mind when I think of rooftop bars. The J. Parker, which sits above the Hotel Lincoln, is the epitome of what a great, Chicago rooftop bar should be. It's got it all: well-made drinks, prices that won't bust your bank, a great location and an even better view of the city. From this bird's eye POV, you can look out over the Old Town and Lincoln Park neighborhoods as well as a gorgeous, premier view of Lake Michigan.rnrnThe J. Parker is a fantastic date spot to grab some drinks before or after dinner. If it gets cold out, no need to worry, there's an inside portion of the bar that is just as swanky. It also serves as a fun gathering place for you and your friends with plenty of tables and lounge furniture. You can party until the wee hours as they stay open till as late as 3am on Saturdays. I do advise you to try and go earlier rather than later as this is a popular place and could get crowded fast.rnrn So that concludes my list of my favorite rooftop and patio bars in Chicago. Grab your sunglasses, tank tops and wallet and get out there to enjoy the summer weather! rn

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My 20 Favorite Rooftop and Patio Bars in Chicago

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