It’s right around this time of year, when freezing cold days start to blur together and sunlight is only a distant memory, that cabin fever starts to set in for Chicagoans. Thankfully, many Chicago restaurants have adapted to the Midwest winter and now offer “outdoor” seating options that give guests the feeling of being outside sans the frigid temperatures. From toasty igloos to enclosed rooftops to indoor/outdoor patios, there are plenty of ways to stay cozy and still appreciate winter in Chicago…
Aba {302 North Green Street, Chicago; 773.645.1400}
Winter can’t stop Aba from closing their beautiful rooftop patio. Enjoy Mediterranean fare and cocktails inside a heated igloo with room to seat eight people! It’s the perfect gathering place to bring people if they’re in from out of town. Don’t let the cold stop you from showing off our city!
IO Godfrey {127 Huron Street, Chicago; 312.374.1830}
Spend a night out at Chicago’s largest and only year-round rooftop bar: IO at The Godfrey Hotel. Try something different this season and enjoy views of the Chicago skyline from a heated igloo in the sky. This has long been one of the city’s go-to destinations for awesome cocktails, views, and time with friends.
Next of Kin {625 Davis Street, Evanston; 847.563.8242}
Enjoy patio season all year long at this Evanston café. Guests have the option to reserve two hours in one of three fully-heated outdoor patio domes.
City Winery Chicago Riverwalk {11 West Riverwalk South, Chicago; 312.229.5593}
Nothing beats a great location and even greater wine on a chilly Chicago night. This environmentally-conscious winery makes the most of its one-of-a-kind riverside locale with heated seating options and plenty of warm drinks that you can indulge in all year long.
Taureaux Tavern {155 West Van Buren Street, Chicago; 312.624.8778}
This recently opened French-inspired restaurant features a year-round covered outdoor pergola in the heart of the Loop. What better place to have after-work drinks or a weekend date night? You’ll be at the forefront of the Chicago food world!
Frontier {1072 North Milwaukee Ave, Chicago; 773.772.4322}
The giant outdoor fireplace in Frontier’s all-weather beer garden is the only thing needed to keep out the cold this winter. Stop in (or should we say out?) for family-style meals featuring your favorite comfort foods and plenty of beer options. They’re hosting weekly Game of Thrones viewing parties that will be not-to-miss events!
The Peninsula Sky Rink {108 East Superior Street, Chicago; 312. 337.2888}
Out of all the hotels in Chicago, The Peninsula is the only one with an ice skating rink—and this one just so happens to be on a rooftop! Whether you’re skating or watching at The Chalet with a cup of hot chocolate, this is one winter activity everyone will enjoy. Plus, all proceeds will be donated to charity! Who could say no to that?
By Audrey Rompon | Contributor
The post Spend the Winter “Outside” at These All-Season Chicago Spots appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.