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player ready...Ready for a real breath of fresh air? Check out these alfresco drinking and dining options, all new this season.
The Fifty/50
2047 W. Division St. 773-489-5050
The sidewalk cafe at this newish Ukrainian Village spot is smack-dab in the middle of the Division Street action. There’s ample seating — for about 60 — but we still expect to see lots of jockeying for position once the summer scene heats up.
Shochu
3313 N. Clark St. 773-348-3313
The outdoor area at this new Asian-influenced Wrigleyville restaurant-lounge is a nice refuge from the Cubs crowds at nearby spots. Tucked behind the restaurant, the 11-table patio offers shade trees and a fountain, plus black wicker armchairs to contrast white tables.
ZED451
739 N. Clark St. 312-266-6691
This recently opened River North steakhouse offers an enormous rooftop deck with 120 seats and a full-service bar. The $49 all-you-can-eat menu that prevails indoors isn’t available outside; instead, look for a la carte selections such as fondue and charcuterie.
Angels & Mariachis
1721 W. Division St. 773-227-7772
The latest addition to the high-energy Division Street sidewalk scene comes from this rock bar and cantina at the east end of the strip, with seating for about 40. Expect the margaritas to flow freely all summer long.
Perennial
1800 N. Lincoln Ave. 312-981-7070
Opening Thursday, this Lincoln Park American bistro from the team behind Boka and Landmark boasts a promising summer scene: A 60-seat cafe topped with a cool curved pergola and outfitted with flowers, ivy, birch trees and fancy furniture.