Globetrotting with a Gourmand: Dining al Fresco in Chicago
by Sandi Todorovich, Luxury Travel Advisor
There's no better time to take in the award-winning Chicago dining scene than summer - aka patio season. Dine on a rooftop with a breathtaking view, sip cocktails along the Chicago River, and enjoy the greenery and summer vibes from Fulton Market. Below are my three favorite places to dine al fresco in Chicago this summer.
Not only was I excited to welcome the new and beautifully appointed St Regis to Chicago, but I absolutely love dining outside on the rooftop at Miru, overlooking the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, and Navy Pier. Miru is Japanese for “view” and the name couldn’t be more appropriate. Serving sushi during the day and more Izakaya-inspired dishes at night, it’s the perfect location to enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine while watching the Navy Pier fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday summer nights.
Still one of the top places to dine al fresco during the summer, Pizzeria Portofino is just as popular as ever. Their outside terrace is perfectly situated along the Chicago River, where the people (and boat) watching is the best in the town. Need gluten-free and afraid to dine here? No worries – all pizzas and pastas can be made gluten-free. Aperol spritz, please!
When Joe Flamm took over BLVD, he not only raised the caliber of food served, but also designed a swanky outdoor terrace with music, lush greenery, and string lighting in a previously unused lot. His full-season patio is ideal for summer, along with my favorite addition – every Thursday, there is a special on high-end vintage wines featuring at-cost glass pours and exclusive half-priced bottles.