One of the many advantages of living in the city of Chicago is unfettered access to world-class restaurants. If you have a chance to enjoy some of the many options for outdoor dining in the South Loop, you’ll see why.

As restrictions lighten and businesses begin to reopen, eating outdoors in the South Loop has never felt more vibrant. The weather is just starting to warm up, and residents are flocking to their favorite eateries, breakfast nooks, and summer bistros for patio dining. If you’re looking to enjoy a meal outdoors while you take in the sights of the city, or you need to locate the perfect place for a night out with friends, here are five great restaurants in the South Loop offering outdoor dining.

Honey Berry Pancake - South Loop

Honey Berry

Specializing in unique pancakes and other tantalizing breakfast concoctions, Honey Berry on historic State Street has something for every a.m. aficionado. Check out their menu here. Offering patio dining, as well as full liquor and coffee bars, this dog-friendly establishment has a wonderful buzz and warm atmosphere. Entrées average $15-18, and in-person dining is open at 50% capacity. They also offer an inviting selection of sandwiches and brunch items. Wait times vary, and space is often limited at peak hours. Plan ahead, if possible.

Flo and Santos

No discussion of Chicago cuisine is complete without at least one mention of pizza. If you’re craving a slice of perfection, try out Flo and Santos on Wabash. This beautiful, exposed brick pub and eatery boasts a large outdoor beer garden and offers a wide array of polish classics, in addition to its delicious pies. Family-friendly by day and party-capable by night with daily drink specials, you can also enjoy your favorite sporting events on any of its seventeen flatscreens—including on the patio. With entrees reasonably priced at around $11, a night out won’t break the bank.

Flo and Santos patio - Outdoor Dining in the South Loop
LowCountry - South Loop

LowCountry

What better way to commence the start of summer than with an outdoor dining experience in the South Loop centered around an authentic seafood boil shared with friends, loved ones, or colleagues? At Low Country on Wabash, you’ll feel like you’re in someone’s backyard as you enjoy your own customized boil, prepared traditionally and shared at the table. Choose from snow crab, fresh shrimp, lobster, or any number of oceanic proteins, then combine them with your preferred sides, sauces, and level of spiciness to create your own perfect mix. Seafood market prices vary.

 

La Cantina Bar and Grill

If you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, try La Cantina on Michigan Avenue. View their menu here. La Cantina is situated near Soldier Field, McCormick Place, and world-famous Millennium Park, which makes it a perfect spot to stop and grab a meal while you’re taking in the sights. True to its namesake, La Cantina offers a full bar featuring fresh margaritas and exclusive cocktail recipes, as well as patio dining. Their extensive menu is loaded with fresh ingredients prepared traditionally, including vegan options and discounts for Columbia College students. Entrée prices average around $12 dollars.
La Cantina - south loop
Niu B Japanese - south loop

Niu B

This quaint gem offers high-quality Japanese cuisine. Located on Michigan Avenue, Niu B is open for both indoor and outdoor dining, with a maximum of six guests per table. For a quick lunch, try a traditional bento box, or order from their made-to-order noodle bar (noodle dishes average around $13). If you’re planning a more casual outdoor dining excursion, you can settle in with a sake flight or a fusion cocktail called the “sake-tini”. They also specialize in maki and nigiri by the piece. Space is limited, but you can make reservations online here.

 

Terri Buseman, Your Chicago Real Estate Expert

In my line of work, selling dream homes to families who dream big, I’m always on the move. Discovering the best places to grab a bite to eat comes with the territory, but if you want to know more about the stunning neighborhoods Chicago has to offer, peruse my website, and use this handy search feature to do a deep dive into the areas that peak your interest the most.

View My Featured Listings

Buy Real Estate

Sell Real Estate

Enjoy these restaurants and others in our beautiful South Loop

Skip to content