When it comes to dining and drinking in Chicago, there are really only two seasons: indoor and outdoor. Thankfully, it’s time to enjoy the myriad patios, rooftops and courtyards around town. Here’s a selection of new and coming-soon outdoor venues alongside some returning and tried-and-true spots to sip a cocktail, nosh and indulge in outside views and warmth.
UPDATE: We’ll be expanding this list throughout the summer, sharing both newly opened outdoor dining spaces and adding old favorites that readers have reminded us of. Have a favorite patio or rooftop that’s not on the list? Share it with us on Twitter.
New this week
Baker Miller Bakery & Millhouse: If you’re able to score one of the three tables on the no-frills back patio at this Lincoln Square breakfast/brunch mecca, we hope you’re armed with some bubbly. This isn’t hyped as a BYO place, but it’s totally kosher to pop a few bottles with your cheesy chorizo hash and (almost) mandatory slice of pie. 4610 N. Western Ave., 773-654-3610
Beef & Barley: Picnic tables, a few tucked in covered cabanas, stretch far down Wellington Avenue outside this chill bar and restaurant. Come with a group (and your dogs!) for brunch punch bowls and an insanely decadent burger at dinner. 3001 N. Ashland Ave., 773-248-0990
Expat: This summer pop-up is the ultimate in al fresco dining — there’s actually no indoor seating. When the weather’s bad, it’s closed. But when Mother Nature cooperates, there are few better places to drink, with offerings including a rose-heavy wine list, beer and spiked snow cones. 118 N. Green St.
Goddess and Grocer: The new Andersonville location of this local cafe-bakery-market hybrid boasts a charming back patio strung with golden globe lights. White picnic tables and chairs seats 36; settle in for a sandwich, avocado toast or slice of rainbow cake. Plus, this is the first G&G location to serve cocktails. 5318 N. Clark St., 872-302-4074
Newcomers, newly updated and coming soon
25 Degrees Wicker Park: Camp out along Division Street with a burger and spiked milkshake in hand. The new Wicker Park sidewalk patio has room for 48, so everyone’s invited. 2015 W. Division St., 312-763-9600
3 Greens Market: There’s room for 30 on the sidewalk of Brendan Sodikoff’s market-meets-coffeehouse, complete with foliage and awning shade. 354 W. Hubbard St,. 312-888-9195
Americano 2211: The former Birchwood space has been resurrected with T.L.C. from duo Nancy Silver (Blackbird) and Chris Pappas (The Winchester). The European cafe is currently serving breakfast and lunch — dinner and bar service to follow — and it has a cozy, ivy-accented patio out back. 2211 W. North Ave., 773-360-8757
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Aire: Perched on the 24th floor of Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago, this oasis in the sky offers 360-degree views of the city’s best architecture, as well as fire pits, lush greenery, cozy couches and umbrella-topped tables for post-work maxing and relaxing. Expect a menu with small plates, handcrafted cocktails, wine and bottle service. 100 W. Monroe St., 312-236-1234
Ampersand Wine Bar: The sunny Lincoln Square wine bar with plenty of affordable by-the-glass options debuts its flower-lined patio this spring. 4845 N. Damen Ave., 773-728-0031
Beacon Tavern: This new riverside spot features American fare. The wraparound patio, which opens in June, will seat around 50 and offer views of the skyline, Michigan Avenue bridge and the Wrigley Building from its east and south-facing vantages. It will have classic cocktails ($12-15), seasonal summer libations ($13) and individual cocktails with rare ingredients ($55-70) for those wanting to splurge. 405 N. Wabash Ave., 312-955-4226
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Beatrix Streeterville: Streeterville, you don’t have to retreat to a rooftop for outdoor lounging. The restaurant’s newest location offers patio seating for up to 100, and with a Rolodex of menus (breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, coffee and beyond), there’s an excuse to stay all day. Busy bees will love the market section — complete with salad and soup bars, sandwiches, sushi and hot entrees — which also can be enjoyed alfresco. 671 N. St. Clair St., 312-642-0001
Belly Up: We’ve long wished more restaurants would do outdoor bar-style seating, where you can face the street and watch the world go by. Belly Up in the South Loop is answering that call with its new alfresco countertop dining, with 15 stools looking out onto Wabash Avenue. The barbecue restaurant has also added a traditional sidewalk patio with a handful of tables, fenced in by an on-theme wooden corral. At a just-launched Saturday and Sunday brunch, pair a $6 mimosa with smoked brisket hash or a jalapeno cheddar biscuit breakfast sandwich. 1132 S. Wabash Ave., 312-929-3856
Bernie’s Lunch & Supper: Because it was open for just a few short weeks last summer, this River North rooftop is considered a newbie in our book. With gorgeous wood beams overhead, string lights and dashes of springy colors, the 1,500-square-foot space is a stunner. 660 N. Orleans St., 312-624-9892
Best Intentions: Behind the Logan Square neo-dive bar awaits a tropical hideout that Playboy deemed the “best patio bar in America.” A cabana bar, decorated with family heirlooms and rusted beer delivery truck panels, offers select bottled and canned beer, wine and cocktail specials. Along with prairie grasses, flowers and tropical plants, the surrounding fences are lined with metal sculptures welded by the owners’ mother. 3281 W. Armitage Ave., 312-818-1254
Black Iron Tavern: Alfresco game-watching is the deal at the River West elevated sports bar by Chris Johnston (Cheesie’s Pub & Grub, Whiskey Business). Along with seats for 60, expect two TVs and a projector, a fireplace and a walk-up window to the bar on the private patio. 401 N. Milwaukee Ave., 312-690-4000
Blackwood BBQ: Unlike its two counterparts in the Loop, the Lakeview location serves craft beer, which means you can enjoy a cold one with that beef brisket sandwich on the 20-seat patio. 962 W. Belmont Ave., 312-487-4807
The Blanchard: The contemporary French restaurant, which opened last July, will debut its 64-seat patio in early June. The wraparound, secluded outdoor space (the restaurant sits on a cul-de-sac) will offer its full menu outside, including Sunday brunch. To the west, the patio will overlook a park, and on the north side there are trees that will provide shade from the sun. 1935 N. Lincoln Park W., 872-829-3971
Cantina 1910: The modern Mexican restaurant in Andersonville has opened a 60-seat patio. Saturday and Sunday brunch options include a chile-spiced cinnamon roll and a breakfast burrito with chorizo and Chihuahua cheese. Or do dinner and a Cantina Libre cocktail with 7-year rum, housemade lavender cola and lime. 5025 N. Clark St., 773-506-1910
City Winery Chicago at the Riverwalk: The wine-centric outpost returns, but this time it has expanded, adding 60 additional seats to its outdoor wine garden, and it can now accommodate up to 100 standing guests. Grub includes sandwiches and shared plates, and there are six house-made wines sourced from California vineyards. It will also serve three special blends: Riverwalk Red, White and Rose. 11 W. Riverwalk South
Coda di Volpe: The Southern Italian-focused restaurant opens in midsummer and will feature a 65-seat patio. Fare will include Neapolitan pizza and house-cured meats along with an emphasis on the seafood, vegetable and olive oil-based fare favored in Southern Italian cooking. 3335 N. Southport Ave.
Cotton Duck: The West Town restaurant-art gallery combo opened last September with a BYO policy and a downright enchanting patio area that’s studded with flower pots, string lights and sculptures. 941 N. Damen Ave., 773-661-6131
Corridor Brewery & Provisions: Sky-blue vintage metal armchairs and bench seating made from the flooring of old railroad boxcars surround reclaimed wood tables on the Lakeview brewpub’s patio for 22. Green shrubbery in white antique pots and a planter box of flowers enhance the outdoor experience. 3446 N. Southport Ave., 773-270-4272
Cruz Blanca: Rick Bayless’ much-anticipated West Loop taproom-taqueria hybrid has finally opened its doors, and its 24-seat sidewalk cafe is expected to open this summer. In the meantime, close your eyes and imagine yourself unwinding outside with the help of Oaxacan-style tacos stuffed with red chili cecina and an impossibly refreshing beer brimming with local ingredients. Its sister property next door, Lena Brava (900 W. Randolph), will also open an 18-seat outdoor cafe this summer. 904 W. Randolph St., 312-733-1975
The Dearborn: Located on the southeast corner of Dearborn and Randolph streets, this 8,000-square-foot American tavern with a focus on bar bites and seasonal small plates opens in mid-June. Its outdoor space, which is expected to open in August, will accommodate about 40 guests. The Dearborn-facing side features retractable windows for those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors from inside. 145 N. Dearborn St., 312-384-1242
Deer Path Inn: The newly renovated and reopened historic inn houses two outdoor dining areas. The English Room features a garden courtyard, which is an outdoor extension of the fine-dining venue. The Bar‘s outdoor space also offers drinks alongside food, from shared plates, pub grub and pasta to sushi. 255 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, 847-234-2280
Dive Bar: The seafood-centric restaurant continues its of-the-sea theme with its new nautical patio motif. Sip on tropical drinks, wine or beer in the enclosed patio out back that resembles a boat dock, or people-watch from the sidewalk cafe. 3445 N. Halsted St., 773-770-4618
Dolce Italian: Opened in August last year, the River North Italian restaurant seats 40 on a patio separated from the sidewalk with planter boxes. 127 W. Huron St., 312-754-0700
Dos Urban Cantina: This new Mexican hot spot boasts a 40-seat sidewalk cafe, running along Mozart Street. Bordered by planter boxes, the space features vintage wrought-iron chairs, marble-topped tables and cute overhead lighting. 2829 W. Armitage Ave., 773-661-6452
Duck Duck Goat: The toughest tables in town are at Stephanie Izard’s homage to Chinese food, open less than two months. It will be moderately easier to snag a table (at least in good weather) now that 24 first-come, first-served seats have opened on the raised sidewalk in front of the restaurant. 857 W. Fulton Market, 312-902-3825
Earls Kitchen and Bar: Whether sunbathing or shade-lounging is the goal, the Lincoln Park restaurant has seats for 100 at stone tables for four (giant red umbrellas optional) and high-top tables for two. Along with an outdoor bar, there’s seating around a fire pit for those breezy summer nights after sundown. 1538 N. Clybourn Ave., 312-929-3952
Elixir Lounge and Replay Andersonville: Opening late last season in September, the Andersonville cocktail bar and arcade bar share this 68-seat sidewalk patio fenced in by planter boxes and accented with umbrellas and light-strung trees. 1509 W. Balmoral Ave., 773-654-1751 and 5358 N. Clark St., 773-654-1369, respectively
Fremont: A retractable roof on the second floor breathes fresh air into the River North spot, for a late-into-the-night rooftop scene. Return Saturday and Sunday mornings for a sprawling brunch buffet ($35, with an additional $15 Champagne package), which includes Doughnut Vault goodies, a seafood tower, a waffle bar and more. 15 W. Illinois St., 312-874-7270
Forno Rosso: Take your pie outside at the new West Loop pizzeria. With room for 60, the Randolph Street patio is well-suited for people-watching and day-drinking. “I’m really trying to create an Italian outdoor cafe experience with fresh and light Italian handcrafted cocktails and super-light and refreshing wines,” owner Nick Nitti said. “We are also going to have a lineup of aperitif cocktails, which are an infusion of herbs and fruit in alcohol and water.” Sounds dreamy. 1048 W. Randolph St., 312-243-6000
The General Restaurant & Mercantile: The Logan Square taco saloon’s back patio levels up this season with a coming-soon game garage addition, including shuffleboard, darts, table football and air hockey. There’s room for 45 on the flower-filled patio and 12 on the sidewalk bar out front. 2528 N. California Ave., 773-698-8754
Giardino Segreto at Osteria Langhe: A single communal table for 14 awaits alfresco diners in the backyard of this Logan Square Italian eatery, appropriately named “secret garden” in Italian. The rustic hideaway, with romantic string lights and a garden with fresh produce and herbs used in-house, debuted in August. 2824 W. Armitage Ave., 773-661-1582
The Goddess and Grocer Andersonville: The back patio will be accessorized with turquoise furniture, string lights and planters stuffed with flowers and fresh herbs at Goddess’ imminent addition in Andersonville, which will also include a sidewalk cafe. It’s expected to open in late May or early June. 5318 N. Clark St., 872-302-4074
GreenRiver: One of Chicago’s top new restaurants of 2015, GreenRiver opened with a splash last September, not leaving us much time to enjoy the sprawling outdoor terrace before winter hit. As the 18th-floor space emerges from hibernation this year, you’ll notice two separate sections: a bar area facing Lake Michigan that fits 40 to 45 and a dining area with urban views and room for 50. It will do the trick for impressing parents and out-of-town visitors. 259 E. Erie St., 312-337-0101
Green Street Local: Flowers and fresh herbs flank the cozy 25-seat patio, creating the perfect place to explore the West Loop newbie’s extensive beer menu. If the weather turns sour, seek refuge in the multilevel, TV-studded interior. 130 S. Green St., 312-226-6565
Honey Butter Fried Chicken: The capacity of the sprawling patio has jumped from 60 to 100 seats this season in a communal dining setting. There’s a magnet wall to entertain the kids while the adults enjoy Front Porch Cocktails, including vodka-based Tipsy Tea or The Hill Pop with bourbon and housemade lemonade ($8 glass, $32 pitcher). 3361 N. Elston Ave., 773-478-4000
Ironside Bar & Galley: The sports bar is expected to open in late June in the former Cyrano’s Farm Kitchen space. Named after the nickname of the U.S.S. Constitution, “Old Ironsides,” its interior is meant to resemble the feel of a ship turned upside down. The outdoor sidewalk patio will accommodate about 50 seats, where visitors can soon nosh on seafood bites, such as lobster tater tots, and bar food, such as lollipop chicken wings, while imbibing value-driven wine, beer and craft cocktails. 546 N. Wells St.
Jerry’s Lincoln Square: Trees along Giddings Plaza shade a 60-seat patio with tables for two to six at the third iteration of the whiskey bar with a respectable craft beer menu and killer grilled cheese sandwiches. 4739 N. Lincoln Ave., 872-208-6264
Johnny’s Grill and Mezcaleria Las Flores: Feel the vibes from beautiful Oaxaca on this Logan Square sidewalk patio shared by the diner and mezcal bar. With string lights and a retractable awning for those super-bright days, 100-ish people can kick back and relax with smoky Mexican-inspired cocktails and a side of Pop Tarts-like treats. 2545 N Kedzie Ave., 773-278-2215
Joy District: The folks behind Hubbard Inn gussied up the former Epic space, brought on executive chef Matt Wilde (American Junkie, Moonshine) and recently unveiled the new River North concept. Its 3,000-square-foot rooftop, where food is also served, features a frozen drink program. 112 W. Hubbard St., 312-955-0339
The Kitchen: Whether you’re indulging in oysters for brunch or a charcuterie plate for happy hour, this new 30-seat Riverwalk patio, which will feature a mix of high-top and regular table seating, makes the perfect backdrop. The outdoor area is expected to open June 1. 316 N. Clark St., 312-836-1300
LH Rooftop at LondonHouse: On the site of Fort Dearborn, the London Guarantee and Accident Building is being remodeled into London House, an upscale hotel that will include a tri-level restaurant and lounge space. It will begin indoors on the 23rd floor; patrons use a private elevator to access the LH rooftop, fitted with low lounge furniture and gas fireplaces. And within the cupola that tops the building, there’s a third level of outdoor revelry available for private parties. (The owners are hoping to host more than a few weddings.) 85 E. Wacker Drive, 312-357-1200
MAD Social: Taking after its cozy interior, this West Loop sidewalk patio will offer industrial vibes with chic French details. Expect 20 seats at two- and four-top tables to enjoy the globally influenced menu. 1140 W. Madison St., 312-243-2097
Monteverde: West Loop’s pasta palace will flaunt a corner patio with about 20 seats on Madison and Carpenter streets. Those floor-to-ceiling windows will open up, too, so you won’t lose your view of the pasta-making station situated behind the bar. 1020 W. Madison St., 312-888-3041
The Northman: Cider lovers can take their pick of two outdoor areas. Sidewalk seating is expected to be available this summer for 40. In late summer, Northman anticipates opening its courtyard for 30 with teak tables and French-woven chairs among trees and a flower garden. 4337 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-935-2255
Queen Mary: The Wicker Park bar rooted in British maritime drinking tradition takes it outside with a 50-seat sidewalk patio populated by tables for up to eight and standing rails. The bar’s summer cocktails are fit for spring with ingredients like passion fruit-ginger syrup, peach bitters and jalapeno tincture. And the large-format tea rum punch, normally served hot, is chilled for summer. 2125 W. Division St., 773-697-3522
Raised: The ambitious rehab of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown’s urban rooftop bar, which opened in May, offers city and Chicago River views and serves an American bar menu of small plates at lunch and dinner. A rotating menu of six draft beers (and 40 bottled) will focus on local breweries. There should be plenty of eye candy among the after-5 p.m. patrons. 1 W. Wacker Drive, 312-372-7200
Rojo Gusano: There’s a sad lack of outdoor venues in Albany Park, but this new Mexican-fusion eatery fills the void. With specials that include $2 Taco Tuesdays, as well as a beer, shot and taco for $10 alongside housemade tortillas and its wide selection of mezcal, tequila and bourbon, there’s no doubt the hot spot’s 45- to 50-seat sidewalk cafe will be hopping when it opens in late May. The restaurant’s large front garage-styled window also retracts to give a taste of the outdoors while you’re still enjoying shelter from the elements inside. 3830 W. Lawrence Ave., 773-539-4398
Roti Modern Mediterranean: Having recently rebranded by adding the last two words to its moniker, the chain makes its downtown Chicago debut in MetraMarket early this summer. It will feature an outdoor space that seats 18 and will serve wine and beer alongside Mediterranean-inspired fare. 121 N. Clinton St.
Saint Lou’s Assembly: Boozy floats, a bocce court and bleacher-style seating are all part of the package at the cafeteria-style dining destination’s sunny backyard patio in Fulton Market. With 100 seats, there’s room to laze around all day. Plus, enjoy select cocktails from neighboring sister spot Moneygun. 664 W. Lake St., 312-600-0600
Small Cheval: Last summer, hungry burger-slammers had to fight for a place to sit on the sunny patio at Bucktown’s baby brother to Au Cheval. Those lucky enough to score one of the restaurant’s 80-ish alfresco seats can chase Malort shots with a boozy milkshake under strings of starlike lights. 1732 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Spin Chicago: After taking names at the pingpong tables, head outside for custom cocktails, coffee and alfresco fare. Pro tip: Spoil your dinner with a sundae topped with seasonal fruit compote, lemongrass caramel, Nutella and whipped cream. 344 N. State St., 773-635-9999
SteakBar: Retractable garage door-style windows keep this new Four Corners Tavern Group and Hogsalt collaboration easy and breezy. For maximum sun exposure, ask for a spot on the 30-seat patio along the hustle and bustle of Wells Street. 1500 N. Wells St., 773-966-0404
Tiny Hatt: A new addition to the Chicago Riverwalk, the barrel-aged craft cocktail and BBQ-centric venue comes from a partnership between Tiny Lounge and Big Hatt Gourmet. It’s expected to open mid-June, and local singer-songwriters will perform live 5-7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. 55 W. Riverwalk South
To Hayati at Taxim: This Wicker Park rooftop quietly debuted last August. There’s room for 80 in the Greek dinner haven, with exposed brick, a small bar and a lush garden of herbs and tomatoes in terra cotta pots that dress up the exterior of the enclosed staircase leading to the restaurant. 1558 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-252-1558
Upstairs at The Gwen: Situated in the heart of Magnificent Mile, this fifth-floor rooftop specializes in craft cocktails, shared plates and downtown views with a side of art deco style. 521 N. Rush St., 312-645-1500
Whiskey Business: This whiskey watering hole is the rooftop Wicker Park has been waiting for, with seating for 170 at picnic and communal tables — some with personal ice chests for really thirsty groups — and loveseats. While brick and artificial grass walls don’t offer much of a view (and it’s a two-story building), five 4-by-8-foot TVs guarantee you’ll never miss the game. Menus for both Whiskey Business and adjacent Cheesie’s Pub & Grub are available on the rooftop, along with 10 frozen margarita machines. 1367 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-698-7362
Returning and tried-and-true
Ada St.: The artificial turf covering this brick-walled courtyard gives an ironic twist to the outdoor-dining idea, and outdoor games, hip cocktails and an excellent small-plates menu make the place just about irresistible. 1664 N. Ada St., 773-697-7069
Adelle’s: This French-American bistro, just a bit west of Wheaton’s downtown, added a new roof over its pergola-topped patio to shield customers from inclement weather. It’s ringed with iron fencing and has a small flower garden, which includes fresh and glass flowers. 535 W. Liberty Drive, Wheaton, 630-784-8015
Agio: Tall fences and flowers shield this outdoor patio from street traffic just a few yards away; the classic Italian menu is tough to beat. 64 S. Northwest Highway, Palatine, 847-991-2150
Athena: Housing the biggest and prettiest outdoor space in Greektown, Athena is equipped with an elaborate retractable-roof system for year-round use. But the time to go is when the roof is rolled back. 212 S. Halsted St., 312-655-0000
Autre Monde: Drive past this Mediterranean-influenced restaurant in Berwyn, and you’d have no clue that a shaded, canvas-roof patio is tucked into the back. Smart cocktails (I can’t resist the blood-orange gimlet) and terrific food are the real reasons to arrive, though. 6727 W. Roosevelt Road, Berwyn; 708-775-8122
Bakersfield: The sister restaurant to Standard Market has one of the nicest patios in the suburbs, a spacious patio with gas fireplaces and heater-equipped umbrellas, and the patio will host live music Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. 300 E. Ogden Ave., Westmont, 630-568-3615
Barcocina: This sun-soaked 4,000-square-foot private patio seats 122 at regular and communal tables. Highlights include an outdoor bar and patio sectional sofa for sweet summer day-drinking. 2901 N. Sheffield Ave., 773-687-9949
Bar Toma: Pizza, soft-serve and a sunny seat looking toward the historic Water Tower. Add in half-off snacks during happy hour 4:30 to 6 and 9-10 p.m. Monday through Friday, alongside drink specials, and you can’t beat it. 110 E. Pearson St., 312-266-3110
Bin 36: The wine-driven restaurant with 50 wines available by the taste, glass or bottle has an adjoining walled-in, canvas-canopied, 50-seat patio with nicely spaced tables and lounge sofas. 161 N. Jefferson St., 312-995-6560
Boka: Just beyond the dining room is Boka’s outdoor space, surrounded by a working garden and hanging herbs. There’s not much room for seating, but when the weather’s right and the glass doors are out of the way, even inside diners get a sense of it. 1729 N. Halsted St., 312-337-6070
Ceres’ Table: Fine food and great people watching at the sidewalk cafe. 3124 N. Broadway, 773-922-4020
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!: One of Chicago’s oldest outdoor spaces is a large patio with a sliding-glass roof. Come for the tapas, several of which are a steal during happy hour, and stay for the paella. 2024 N. Halsted St., 773-935-5000
Carlucci: The ivy-covered walls of this piazza, complete with a huge central fountain, will make you think you’re in Italy (except that here, no one will try to sell you a selfie stick). Live music, especially on weekends, is a big draw, but the classic Italian cuisine is a better one. 1801 Butterfield Road, Downers Grove, 630-512-0990
Cerise: The cherry on top of the Virgin Hotels Chicago is an indoor/outdoor bar/nightclub where DJs often spin at night. The outside space offers a wraparound perch with loungy, rain-resistant furniture and excellent Loop views. 203 N. Wabash Ave., 312-940-4400
Chicago Cut: This splendid steakhouse has a super-sized outdoor patio, with plenty of umbrella-topped tables and views of the Loop skyline and Chicago River. 300 N. LaSalle St., 312-329-1800
Cindy’s: A huge part of Chicago Athletic Association hotel’s draw is its 13th floor rooftop space known as Cindy’s, whose spectacular views include the Art Institute, virtually all of Millennium Park and the lake. There’s an arched, glass roof to keep the weather at bay. Bleached-wood floors and picnic tables give the space a beach-house feel, and there are large-scale fire pits for when it’s brisk. Call well ahead to reserve a table. 12 S. Michigan Ave., 312-792-3502
The Dawson: A steel-and-wood pergola and barrel bar tables give this spacious patio a rough-hewn, built-by-hand vibe, and there’s also a lounge-style area. You can get full-service dining in the bar area, as well as the throughout the outdoor section. 730 W. Grand Ave., 312-243-8955
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The Dec Rooftop Lounge + Bar: A 12th-floor perch is sleekly contemporary, offering glowing cube tables and a menu of burgers, sandwiches and light bites. 160 E. Pearson St., 312-573-5160
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: Barbecue and the outdoors go hand-in-hand and this NYC import obliges with a picnic-table patio out back. 923 W. Weed St., 312-462-1053
The Duck Inn: This Bridgeport restaurant is quite small, so its bilevel patio, surrounded by a working vegetable garden, adds welcome space to the popular spot. 2701 S. Eleanor St., 312-724-8811
Fat Rice: The back patio adds an additional and welcome 18 seats to the Macau-inspired eatery. (The inside seats about 40, including counter seating.) 2957 W. Diversey Ave., 773-661-9170
Found: A 25-seat, Parisian-style sidewalk cafe adds much-needed seats at this popular downtown Evanston destination. 1631 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8945
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: The Oak Brook location has a magnificently landscaped outdoor patio, including a waterfall that drowns out nearby traffic noise. An outdoor bar has HD TVs in case there’s a ballgame somewhere. 2105 Spring Road, Oak Brook, 630-954-0000
Girl & the Goat: Two long, communal tables make up G&G’s sidewalk cafe. There’s no respite from the sun or rain, but it does add about 20 more seats to this perpetually booked restaurant. 809 W. Randolph St., 312-492-6262
Homestead on the Roof: The 80-seat rooftop encompasses a sprawling organic garden and working outdoor fireplace, and it’s a delightful environment. The retracting-roof pergola offers some shelter from uncooperative weather. 1924 W. Chicago Ave., 773-904-1145
Howells & Hood: The street-level patio of this beer-focused restaurant offers a full-service bar with TVs, a propane-lit fire table and very comfortable seating. And the view looking west, the bathed-in-light Wrigley Building looming against the night sky, is one of the most dramatic in the city. 435 N. Michigan Ave., 312-262-5310
I/O Urban Roofscape: A hip, fourth-floor perch attached to the uber-hip Godfrey Hotel, the 250-seat space is equipped with high-boy tables, low-slung settees and whale’s-tail umbrella tables. There’s a retractable roof in case of rain. 127 W. Huron St., 312-649-2000
J. Parker: Factoring view, food, comfort and affordability, the J. Parker, atop the Hotel Lincoln, might be the best rooftop hotel in the city. You’ll have spectacular views of Lincoln Park, Lake Michigan and the city; the food, by Paul Virant (whose Perennial Virant restaurant is on the ground floor), offers interesting slider sandwiches, salads, in-house charcuterie and other small-plate goodies. And thanks to a retractable glass roof installed last year, the rooftop is open for business rain or shine. 1816 N. Lincoln Ave.; 312-254-4747
The Kensington: A rooftop garden and lounge above (and accessible through) Parliament nightclub (there’s a separate entrance as well) offer views of River North and downtown. 812 N. Orleans St., 312-380-0004
Labriola Ristorante & Cafe: Just east of Michigan Avenue along a raised strip above Grand Avenue, Labriola has movable windows to let the air flow into the dining room, and about 45 seats out front. 535 N. Michigan Ave., 312-955-3100
La Sirena Clandestina: Outdoor dining is booming in the Fulton Market district. La Sirena takes advantage with a 30-seat sidewalk cafe along Morgan Street and Fulton Market. 954 W. Fulton Market, 312-226-5300
Little Goat Diner: The ever-popular rooftop has a fun, low-key environment with nice city views. The catch: The rooftop hosts lots of private parties, so call ahead to determine availability on any given night. 820 W. Randolph St., 312-888-3455
Marion Street Market: A huge awning with drop-down sides offers plenty of protection for Marion Street’s sidewalk cafe, where you can enjoy the full menu. Weather permitting, there’s live jazz Thursdays. 100 S. Marion St., Oak Park, 708-725-7200
Maya Del Sol: The Latin fusion restaurant offers a welcome combination of beautiful patio and excellent margaritas. 144 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, 708-538-9800
May St. Cafe: A little bit Mexican, a little bit steakhouse (the steaks are prime), this Pilsen restaurant has a pleasant covered patio, and even though there is no view (nothing you want to see, anyway), when the weather’s right, nobody eats indoors. 1146 W. Cermak Road, 312-421-4442
Mon Ami Gabi: The secluded outdoor patio of this classic bistro overlooking Lincoln Park overflows with charm. 2300 N. Lincoln Park West, 773-348-8886
Oak + Char: Inside, the dining room is filled with wood and features a menu of open-flame dishes; outside, the sidewalk cafe is bordered by charred-wood planks and outfitted with overhead lights. This stretch of Huron Street isn’t heavily trafficked, so the outdoor dining is peaceful. 217 W. Huron St., 312-643-2427
Ocean Cut: The seafood restaurant has an attractive outdoor patio at Kinzie and Dearborn streets, making it a prime locale for people watching, and the furniture is upscale and comfy. 20 W. Kinzie St., 312-280-8882
Park Grill: Chicago’s largest outdoor dining venue is The Plaza, which offers a light, pubby menu, tons of seating — you still might have to wait for a table — and wonderful views of the Michigan Avenue streetscape (and The Bean sculpture to the east). 11 N. Michigan Ave., 312-372-7275
Perennial Virant: The 70-seat patio in front of this accomplished restaurant is a magnet for Lincoln Park residents and visitors every summer. It’s also dog-friendly, with the restaurant offering complimentary housemade dog treats. 1800 N. Lincoln Ave., 312-981-7070
Piccolo Sogno: One of the best outdoor dining spots in the city. On sultry summer nights, you can be seated indoors immediately, but a table in the fenced-in, uplit-landscaped outdoor garden? You’ll wait a while for one of those, and it will be worth it. 464 N. Halsted St.; 312-421-0077
Prime & Provisions: This sister property to Siena Tavern, Public House and Bull & Bear is a seriously legit, white-tablecloth steakhouse. The outdoor area is right by the main entrance and tucked under the building’s overhang, complete with new-this-season ivory marble tables on cast-iron bases and woven chairs. Heat lamps and some cool-looking lights hang from the ceiling. 222 N. LaSalle St., 312-726-7777
The Purple Pig: One of the smartest things the Purple Pig owners ever did was convert their building’s “sidewalk to nowhere” into a de facto wine-and-swine promenade. The huge purple tent on the west end is equipped with heat lamps for cooler nights (the space is usable for at least three seasons) and impervious to rain. If you want to feel the sun on your face, though, you’ll have to step into the waiting area. 500 N. Michigan Ave., 312-464-1744
Remington’s: Remington’s is a straightforward American restaurant with a flower box-bordered sidewalk cafe with new awnings that shield patrons from the elements and sliding glass windows that turn the dining room into an open-air space. 20 N. Michigan Ave., 312-782-6000
Riva: You can’t beat the view at this tried-and-true Navy Pier seafood spot’s patio, which is practically in Lake Michigan. Look the other way and you’ll see Chicago’s glittering skyline. Pro tip: Go on a Wednesday or Saturday to enjoy an up-close view of Navy Pier’s fireworks while you have one more glass of wine. 700 E. Grand Ave., 312-644-7482
River Roast: This restaurant’s outdoor space runs right up against the Chicago River, offering spectacular river and city views. Best time to dine? Sunset — and around noon at River Roast’s weekend blues brunch. 312 N. LaSalle St.; 312-822-0100
RM Champagne Salon: An awning-covered, iron-fenced back porch, walk-out courtyard and slide-away glass doors create one of the funkiest urban-outdoor settings in the city, a fine place to peruse the bubbly-friendly menu and knock back a dozen oysters. It celebrates this season’s courtyard opening Sunday, May 22, with music by Storm the DJ and a cocktail reception 4-5 p.m. 116 N. Green St., 312-243-1199
RPM Steak: There’s room for 20 at the semicircular, leather-wrapped booths (just like inside) lining Kinzie Street by RPM’s entrance. An awning offers some protection from glare and drizzles. Open for lunch and dinner. 66 W. Kinzie St., 312-284-4990
Salero: This Spanish restaurant has a wood-trimmed sidewalk cafe that seats 20, a rustic counterpart to the white-on-white cafe at adjacent Blackbird. 621 W. Randolph St., 312-466-1000
Seven Lions: Across from the Art Institute, the Alpana Singh venture is a creative American restaurant that offers a 70-seat sidewalk cafe, with umbrella tables and flower boxes. 130 S. Michigan Ave., 312-880-0130
Shanghai Terrace: Right outside the Peninsula Hotel’s Shanghai Terrace, by far the most elegant Chinese restaurant in town, is a fourth-floor terrace dubbed The Terrace, which is exquisitely furnished and surrounded by skyscrapers. Dress up for this one. 108 E. Superior St., 312-337-2888
Smith & Wollensky: Offering a quintessential Chicago vantage, the patio overlooks the Chicago River and its south bank. It’s topped with a white-fabric canopy that wards off rain and glare and is perfect for a sunny-day hangout or for a pretty, downtown Chicago nighttime view. 318 N. State St., 312-670-9900
Stella Barra and Summer House: The interior of Stella Barra Pizzeria is dark, but out back there’s a sunny (potentially), brick-walled patio with light strings and a retracting roof. Next door, Summer House Santa Monica has a retractable glass roof over the dining room, as well as a secluded 20-seat patio. Both patios are nice environments when they’re not hosting private parties, which does happen at Stella Barra. 1954 N. Halsted St., 773-634-4101
Streeterville Social: The outdoor space at the Loews Chicago Hotel is 9,000 square feet of sun-drenched (knock wood) terrace in Streeterville. There are grassy stretches to wiggle one’s toes (watch out for petanque players), two bars and one area set up for Mark Payne’s “elevated street eats,” a dozen small plates that might include chicken-thigh banh mi, walleye tacos and grilled lamb-belly pita sandwiches. 455 N. Park Drive, 312-840-6617
Sumi Robata Bar: Gene Kato’s small-plates Japanese restaurant has an adjacent landscaped, wood-clad deck with a pretty Zen garden, which now offers traditional sushi. A perfect setting for the chef’s food. 702 N. Wells St., 312-988-7864
Tanta: The Peruvian restaurant (by superstar chef Gaston Acurio) has a rustic, brick-and-wood deck on the second-floor roof, and the restaurant also has a retractable canvas roof. New this year: The full menu is available on the roof and lunch is now available alfresco too. 118 W. Grand Ave., 312-222-9700
Taus Authentic: Is this Wicker Park’s biggest sidewalk patio? It’s certainly one of the loveliest, spreading out wide and far along the double-wide sidewalk. Enjoy Michael Taus’ casual new-American fare, especially the family-recipe fried chicken, and enjoy cocktails like the cheekily named Make Americano Great Again, with both Cocchi and Gancia Americano, club soda and espresso ice cubes. 1846 W. Division St. 312-561-4500
Tavern at the Park: Steaks and other American fare can be enjoyed in the Tree House, the name of the rooftop deck, which offers a bird’s nest view of Millennium Park and Michigan Avenue. 108 E. Randolph St., 312-552-0070
The Terrace at Trump: If there’s a more expensive rooftop environment in Chicago, we don’t want to know about it; this 16th-floor terrace (adjacent to Sixteen restaurant) in River North sells cocktails and small plates at sky-high prices, but admittedly there’s a get-what-you-pay-for factor when considering the spectacular river, city and lake views (it’s a great place to check out the Wednesday and Saturday fireworks over Navy Pier); the upscale lounge furniture; and touches such as fire pits (new this year) and greenscaping. 401 N. Wabash Ave.; 312-588-8600
Terzo Piano: There are great Millennium Park and Michigan Avenue views from this third-floor restaurant atop the Art Institute’s contemporary wing. A great destination for lunch, Terzo Piano only serves dinner on Thursdays and it also has brunch on Sundays. 159 E. Monroe St., 312-443-8650
Tesori: The outdoor garden behind this Italian restaurant, attached to Symphony Center, is a semi-tranquil and leafy oasis in the Loop. Tranquil except for when an “L” train screeches nearby, but you get used to it. 65 E. Adams St., 312-786-9911
III Forks: The third-floor rooftop is a contemporary, steel-and-glass environment with pretty views of the adjacent park and the surrounding high-rise apartments, cabanas with built-in heaters, and stone and glass fireplaces, and it often pulls in an after-5, dressed-to-thrill crowd. 180 N. Field Blvd., 312-938-4303
Althea Legaspi is a freelance writer.
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