Get those perfect summer sunshine snaps while you can!
Chicago boasts one of the nation’s most breathtaking skylines. Touting some of the tallest and most unique architecture in the world, tourists flock to this world-class city just to experience the incomparable views.
So if you’re looking for somewhere to venture upwards this summer season, make the most of the experience with these Chicago rooftops and terraces, famous as much for their food and drink as their views. Find bar concoctions and gourmet bites begging for an Instagram post. Then, take in the expansive skyline vistas—but first, make sure you take a selfie!
Tanta {118 West Grand Avenue; 312.222.9700}: Gastón Acurio’s name alone is enough to drive patrons to Tanta, but the rooftop up above, well, that draws a crowd all its own. Offering Tanta’s full menu on the roof, Peruvian specialties can be enjoyed alfresco during the day or under the stars at night. The Peruvian theme carries on behind the bar with the photogenic El Chingon served with a red sphere of ice made with rocoto peppers that lends a hint of spice as it melts. Take a shot of it in view of the bar or near the skylight that peers down into the restaurant.
The Godfrey Hotel {127 West Huron Street; 312.649.2000} Stacked four stories above the hustle of River North, I|O Lounge affords guests a skyline view of the city with the Willis Tower starring front and center. Make your summer reservations early if you hope to snag one of the cabanas (with a fire pit, might we add).
VU {133 East Cermak Road; 312.528.0191}: With the Chicago streets sprawled out below you, cozy up to an expansive vista of the city’s skyline, plus a bird’s eye view of Soldier Field and Lake Michigan. Long, loungey couches surround blazing fire pits, and if you’re lucky, you might just catch the firework shows from Navy Pier or White Sox park. Perfect the experience at this South Loop oasis with an order of Crispy Spanish Octopus or Peking Duck Tacos.
Hampton Social Streeterville {164 East Grand Avenue; 312.414.1861}: The Hampton Social Streeterville’s second story, open-air terrace keeps it light and breezy with string lights, AstroTurf flooring, and white umbrellas for a little bit of shade on those sunny days.
NoMI Garden {800 North Michigan Avenue; 312.239.4030}: To really experience the grandiosity of the Magnificent Mile, one only needs to climb up to the seventh floor of the Park Hyatt Chicago to reach NoMI Garden. Post up under one of the rooftop’s many white umbrellas to dine on Executive Chef Eric Damidot’s menu (the Tuna Ventreche Niçoise is a winner) or sidle up to the 30-foot teak wood bar for that perfect Insta-shot over a magnum of rosé.
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago {221 North Columbus Drive; 312.565.5258}: An oasis among the towering skyline, the third-floor terrace at Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel is home to a 25-meter lap pool, a splash pool for the kiddos, and hot tub, just to name a few attractions. Rather stay on land? Mirroring the light blue color of the pool, the Light of the Blu Cocktail with vodka, Carpano Antica dry vermouth, and Fever Tree elderflower tonic is the perfect complement for a poolside picture.
Z Bar {108 East Superior Street; 312.573.6888}: Chicago’s wonders, including the Magnificient Mile, Water Tower Place, and Lake Michigan, are all on display from the terrace of Z Bar, the new rooftop bar at The Peninsula Chicago. Snag a couch in view of it all—or reserve the private terrace for an intimate evening out with loved ones—and get the party started with the shareable Disco Fever served in a glittering disco ball.
Apogee {2 West Erie Street; 312.202.6060}: Apogee isn’t just a place where you’ll want to take selfies, it’s a place where selfies are fully encouraged. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of iconic Chicago architecture, plus photo-perfect lighting. The outdoor terrace is lined with heat lamps and an open fire pit to keep you comfy all evening long. Need a ‘gram-worthy prop? Order the Mr. Nice Guy—Absolut Elyx vodka, cinnamon citrus smoke, ginger, and pineapple served in a massive “Alice in Wonderland”-esque bong for aesthetic affect.
Aba {302 North Green Street, 3rd floor; 773.645.1400}: Marked by lush greenery and whimsical trees seemingly sprouting from the restaurant itself, Aba whisks patrons away to the far reaches of the Mediterranean. The magic continues onto the rooftop terrace with live green planters, cozy couches, an outdoor bar, views of the Loop, and roaring outdoor fire pits.
The Roof at Joy District {112 West Hubbard Street; 312.955.0339}: If the patterned couches, string lights, and flower-adorned hedge wall here seem familiar to you, it’s probably because you’ve seen them before. This Chi-Town rooftop bar is an absolute must for Instagrammers. Of course, no visit to The Roof is complete without an order (or three) from the bar’s boozy slushie menu.
The Robey {2018 West North Avenue; 872.315.3050}: Housed in one of Chicago’s most treasured skyscrapers—clocking in at 203 feet tall—The Robey is a sight to see and to be seen. To soak up all the views, toggle between The Robey’s stellar rooftop experiences. The sixth-floor outdoor rooftop pool and deck, Cabana Club, is set for a summertime photo shoot with two bars and frozen cocktails. Climb a little higher to reach The Up Room on the 13th floor for a nightcap among the stars. For even more privacy, reserve the outdoor alcove, The Grotto, for a little R&R with those you hold closest.
Cabra {200 North Green Street; 312.761.1717}: Perched high above the streets of the West Loop, guests to Cabra’s rooftop terrace can enjoy one of Chicago’s best cityscape views. Lush greenery and vibrant décor elicit beachy vibes reminiscent of sun-drenched Peruvian summers, as do the colorful forkfuls of snapper, salmon, and shrimp ceviches. A sweet Pisco Sour pairs nicely with the classic Tuna Tiradito (the menu’s crowning gem).
ZED451 {739 North Clark Street; 312.266.6691}: In search of a happy hour with stellar views? Look no further than ZED451’s rooftop. With daily Happy Hour to boot, this urban oasis is outfitted with three cabanas, plus a fireplace to warm up when the sun dips down over the city skyline.
Terzo Piano {159 East Monroe Street; 312.443.8650}: After a day touring The Art Institute, don’t leave just yet—there is more to be seen (and eaten!) at Terzo Piano. Tucked away in the Modern Wing of the museum, this third-floor restaurant doles out Italian specialties from the minds of Chef Tony Mantuano and Chef di Cucina Carolina Diaz (the first-ever female World Pasta Champion!). When temperatures are high, grab a seat on the Bluhm Family Terrace overlooking the iconic Millennium Park.
Rooftop at Torali {The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, 160 East Pearson Street, 12th Floor; 312.573.5160}: Twelve floors above the hustle of it all sits Rooftop at Torali. Snap a photo of your summertime Aperol Spritz in front of the stunning John Hancock skyscraper or wait ‘til the sun goes down to get a sultry shot in front of the outdoor fire pit.
Fig & Olive {104 East Oak Street; 312.445.0060}: Three floors above the sophisticated Oak Street is high enough to transport guests to the French Riviera. This urban escape comes in the form of a charming rooftop terrace, complete with sprawling greenery, relaxing white canopies, and a private view of city life below. To really push the experience into paradise, don’t miss the Branzino for Two.
Bernie’s {660 North Orleans Street; 312.624.9892}: From the rooftop at Bernie’s, take in the historic River North neighborhood in its full glory. Chi-Town landmarks, like the Museum of Contemporary Art, and rows of boutique shops are just a stone’s throw away. Brunch, lunch, cocktail hour, or dinner, there’s never a bad time to be atop Bernie’s.
Terrace 16 {401 North Wabash Avenue; 312.588.8600}: Terrace 16 is a Chicago stunner with a black marbled dining room, leather-bound chairs, and a view of the city like no other. However, with warmer days on the horizon, escape to the 200-seater outdoor space, replete with panoramic views of the Chicago River, The Wrigley Clock Tower, and beyond.
Streeterville Social {455 North Park Drive; 312.840.6617}: The direct adjacency to the iconic NBC Tower and the skyline along the Chicago River (perfect for sunsets) are just the beginning of the list of reasons to visit Streeterville Social. This season, the rooftop bar is introducing a number of new weekly happy hours including #WeDrinkPink Wednesday and Sparkling Frydays.
The Goddess & Grocer {1649 North Damen Avenue, Chicago; 773.342.3200}: Those who work remotely are going to want to add this patio to their weekly list! Perfect to post up with a coffee of one of the cafe’s amazing desserts, the Bucktown location’s patio is an amazingly relaxing summer spot.
By Morgan Carter and Peyton Garcia
The post The Selfie-Worthy Rooftops & Terraces of Chicago appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.