6 Great Outdoor Spaces To Eat and Drink

By Molly Durham in Food on Jun 1, 2012 4:30PM

"Where we going for happy hour?" The frequency of this phrase has surely spiked as of late, and we want to help you find the best outdoor spots in town to eat and drink. Whether it's called a patio, rooftop or beer garden, it's our duty as Chicagoans to soak up every bit of frost-less hour mother nature gives us, and there's really no better way to do that than outdoor with friends, food and drinks. Here are six of our favorites.

Piccolo Sogno - Italian food never tasted as good as it does in this greenery-filled patio. Many consider it the best in town, and it feels like you stepped into the Secret Garden a bit when you're out there among the leaves and strings of lights. (464 N. Halsted St.)

Red Door - It's been hard to keep up with this space that just switched from Duchamp to Red Door, but now they've got a semi-hidden patio with around 100 seats. (2118 N. Damen)

Davanti Enoteca - One word: rooftop! Share small plates and pizzas, drink glasses of wine, this place can do no wrong. (1359 W. Taylor St.)

Marble - A good beer selection and plenty of patio space makes this Logan Square restaurant stand out. (3281 W. Armitage)

Butcher & the Burger - Not only did they just introduce outdoor seating, but a custard cart too! The small indoor space has been in need of warm temps to accommodate the crowds, and now they have it. The custard cart will offer a rotating selection of flavors such as Butterfinger, Pina Colada, Cookies 'n Cream, Pistachio, Peanut Butter Banana, Bacon, and Goat Cheese and Pear Mascarpone Brulee. We're sold. (1021 W. Armitage)

Las Fuentes - Their patio is huge, and their indoor space isn't tiny either, so space should be a-plenty. Perfect for when you want some tacos and margaritas but don't want to brave the wait at Big Star. (2558 N. Halsted)