Wicker Park, Chicago's vibrant hub of art, music, and independent shops, also boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants with amazing outdoor dining options. Whether you're looking for a romantic patio, a lively beer garden, or a family-friendly spot, this guide highlights the top 19 places to enjoy the Chicago sunshine while indulging in delicious food and drink.
Finding Your Perfect Wicker Park Patio: Types of Outdoor Dining
Before we dive into the specific restaurants, let's categorize the types of outdoor dining experiences you can find in Wicker Park to help you narrow your search:
- Romantic Patios: Intimate settings, perfect for a date night or special occasion. Think string lights, cozy seating, and a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Lively Beer Gardens: Bustling spaces with communal tables, perfect for groups of friends or a casual get-together. Expect a more energetic ambiance.
- Family-Friendly Options: Restaurants with spacious patios, kid-friendly menus, and a relaxed atmosphere. Great for a casual meal with the whole family.
- Rooftop Bars & Restaurants: Offering stunning city views alongside your meal or drinks. These tend to be more upscale. (While fewer in Wicker Park itself compared to other neighborhoods, some nearby offer similar vibes).
Top 19 Outdoor Dining Spots in Wicker Park: A Detailed Look
This list is organized alphabetically for easy browsing. Remember to check restaurant websites for hours, reservations, and patio availability, especially during peak seasons.
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Big Star: Known for its tacos and extensive tequila selection, Big Star's patio is a Wicker Park staple. Expect a lively atmosphere and delicious food.
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Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!: This Spanish tapas restaurant offers a charming patio perfect for sharing plates and enjoying some sangria.
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Double Door: This iconic music venue also has a great patio area, ideal for pre or post-show bites and drinks.
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Estereo: This Latin American restaurant offers a vibrant and stylish patio experience. Their cocktails are a highlight.
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The Violet Hour: A sophisticated speakeasy with a hidden back patio, this is perfect for a more intimate and upscale outdoor dining experience (reservations highly recommended).
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Piece Brewery & Pizzeria: Known for its delicious pizza and craft beer, Piece Brewery boasts a large, family-friendly patio.
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The Radler: This German-inspired beer garden offers a huge outdoor space, perfect for large groups and casual gatherings.
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Schwa: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative tasting menus; While not strictly a large patio, their outdoor seating is a unique experience.
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Scofflaw: A well-regarded cocktail bar, Scofflaw often has outdoor seating options, though it can vary depending on the season and weather.
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Summer House Santa Monica: With a California-inspired menu and a relaxed, airy patio, this spot is a great choice for a sunny day.
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Tanta: A Peruvian restaurant with a lively atmosphere and a beautiful patio. Their ceviche is a must-try.
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Tornado Room: This is a trendy spot with a distinctive vibe, the outdoor area often complements the interior's unique atmosphere.
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Wicker Park Social: A casual gastropub featuring a comfortable patio great for a relaxed evening.
Restaurants Further Out, But Worth Mentioning (slightly beyond Wicker Park's core):
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RPM Italian: A slightly more upscale option just outside Wicker Park, but known for its stylish patio and delicious Italian food.
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Monteverde: Another slightly further out option but recognized for its excellent Italian food, and generally has some outdoor seating.
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Parsons Chicken & Fish: While known more for its indoor space, they sometimes have limited outdoor seating.
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Small Cheval: A burger joint popular for its excellent burgers; while not always expansive outdoor seating, it's worth checking.
Considerations When Choosing:
- Ambiance: Do you want a romantic, lively, or family-friendly setting?
- Cuisine: What type of food are you craving?
- Reservations: Many popular spots require reservations, especially during peak hours.
- Weather: Always check the forecast before heading out!
Pro Tip: Download OpenTable or Resy to easily check availability and make reservations for outdoor dining at your favorite spots.
This list provides a great starting point for your Wicker Park outdoor dining adventure. Remember to explore and discover your own hidden gems! Enjoy the sunshine and delicious food!
