Get Outside to Eat, Drink, and Enjoy Summertime
We can’t think of much that beats a cool beverage paired with the perfect al fresco meal in the midst of summertime. Whether you’re soaking up rays in Southwest Michigan, Chicago, Northwest Indiana, or Southeast Wisconsin, there are plenty of outdoor dining options to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites that will leave you satiated and sun-kissed.
Terrace Room
Specializing in rustic Italian cuisine, Terrace Room is located in The Harbor Grand Hotel in New Buffalo, Michigan. With an outdoor patio that overlooks the harbor, guests will appreciate Lake Michigan breezes and incredible sunsets while enjoying house-made craft cocktails and locally sourced food.
photo credit: @terraceroomhg
Staymaker Restaurant at Journeyman Distillery
Part of the Journeyman Distillery, which is known for its locally produced spirits, Staymaker Restaurant in Three Oaks, Michigan showcases those spirits throughout its extensive cocktail menu. The outdoor patio overlooks Welter Folly’s putting green, where guests can enjoy a round of golf before or after their meal. Shared plates, sandwiches, and homemade pizzas are just a sampling of what’s on the menu.
Bridges Waterside Grille
Situated in the heart of Michigan City, Indiana, Bridges Waterside Grille offers a large, lively deck and outdoor bar. An extensive pub menu features everything from salads to sandwiches and fresh-caught seafood. Close to both Washington Park and Trail Creek Marinas, it is also the most boat-friendly restaurant in town for those looking to dock after a long day on Lake Michigan.
Uncommon Ground
With locations in Chicago’s Edgewater and Lakeview neighborhoods, Uncommon Ground offers quaint, European-inspired outdoor spaces for dining. The restaurant is also the home of Illinois’ first certified organic brewery and the first certified organic rooftop farm in the U.S. Along with burgers and brews, the menu has plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Both venues also feature brewery and farm tours as well as live music and comedy shows.
RPM Seafood
Patio seating at this high-end Chicago favorite highlights views of the cityscape along the Chicago River. RPM Seafood boasts a multi-level outdoor space where guests will experience a world-class seafood menu as dramatic as the views. With fresh prawns, lobster, king crab, and oysters, the seafood tower is the restaurant’s signature indulgence.
photo credit: @rpmseafood
Pizzeria Portofino
Also on Chicago’s riverfront, Pizzeria Portofino will transport you to the Italian Riviera with its sun-drenched patio and bright design details. Specializing in handmade pizzas, coastal wines, and spritzes, the restaurant is pure summertime pleasure and even provides daily boat docking services.
The Dawson
Originally built in 1888 as a fireplace mantling company, The Dawson has a prominent roof deck with a large vintage fireplace as its centerpiece. The West Town restaurant is open for dinner as well as weekend brunch. Remaining true to its history, The Dawson offers wood-fired menu items year-round as well as fresh seasonal cocktails and weekly live music during the summer.
photo credit: @thedawsonchi
The Grandview Restaurant
Aptly named, The Grandview Restaurant in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin provides stunning views of the lake and sunsets from an expansive patio. Located in The Geneva Inn, the restaurant has a seasonal summer menu with a variety of surf or turf options, as well as pastas. Live music is featured throughout the summer months.
Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar
Also on Lake Geneva’s waterfront, Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar has a private patio where they serve small plates, salads, fresh seafood, and sandwiches that pair with wine or beer flights. The menu offers over 80 wines by the glass or bottle and 60 craft beers, some of them seasonal selections.
