Best Chicago Rooftops to Enjoy This Summer
via Park Hyatt Chicago
We have officially said goodbye and good riddance to another brisk Chicago winter and very wet spring and are finally welcoming in the most coveted time of year; sweet Chicago summertime! If you’re like us and want to spend every single waking minute outside basking in the sunshine (preferably with a crisp cocktail or spritz in hand) here are some gorgeous rooftops around the city to make the most of the summer season:
NoMI Garden {800 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL; 312.239.4030}
The Park Hyatt’s 7th floor restaurant, NoMI, is a year-round favorite, but their lush rooftop terrace garden really steals the spotlight come summertime. NoMI Garden is an urban oasis and welcome reprieve from bustling Michigan Avenue down below, offering a quiet, crowd-free space to soak up the city skyline and indulge in a delicious meal of elevated New American fare, seasonal salads + sandwiches, and gourmet fresh sushi, sashimi + nigiri. The garden is open for lunch, dinner, late night bites, weekend brunch and even offers a special ‘Golden Hour’ menu, Wednesdays from 5-7pm, of selected cocktails and signature bites like the NoMI Happy Meal– a chilled martini paired with a salmon avocado roll and truffle fries with garlic aioli.
Recommended summer sips: She’s From Osaka & Part + Parcel
via Wolf & Company
Wolf & Company {1752 North Western Avenue, Chicago, IL; 312.627.9653}
The team behind one of Chicago’s favorite burger destinations, Little Bad Wolf, debuted its newest concept, Wolf & Company, in Wicker Park last year. Spanning across two expansive stories, guests can enjoy a restaurant, two bars, cafe, deli, market and (most importantly) a gorgeous rooftop patio that connects to the 606 trail. Whether you’re sipping on hand-crafted cocktails, indulging in the gourmet New American fare, or making a pit stop on your 606 stroll for a freshly brewed coffee + pastry, Wolf & Co’s rooftop patio is a Chicago summertime dream.
Recommended summer sips: Hot Girl Juice & Paletta Punch
The Oakville {163 North Green Street, Chicago, IL; 773.309.2300}
Transport yourself to the lush vineyards of California wine country with a visit to The Oakville Grill & Cellar, nestled in the heart of the West Loop. Wine lovers will absolutely swoon over their 750+ bottle list, highlighting some lesser-known California regions; while foodies can dive into a menu of modern Midwest classics filled with fresh ingredients, seasonal produce and locally sourced meats. The Oakville’s second floor boasts a full indoor dining room, a second full service bar and a relaxing rooftop patio that’s just begging you to uncork a bottle or two. Pro tip? Stop by from 4-6pm every Mon-Fri at the bar areas for happy hour specials!
Recommended summer sips: Schramsberg Sparkling & Lieu Dit Sauvignon Blanc
via The Peninsula
Z Bar {108 East Superior Street, Chicago, IL; 312.573.6888}
The Peninsula Chicago is synonymous with all things luxurious, so it should come as no surprise that their 6th floor rooftop terrace Z Bar oozes opulence at every corner. Overlooking Michigan Avenue with sweeping cityscape views, Z Bar offers an unparalleled cocktail lounge experience. Their menu features seasonally handcrafted cocktails, high-end spirits, beer + wine alongside globally inspired small plates and shareables. Get ready to unwind with a round or two while Chicago’s setting sun reflects across the skyscrapers and city beyond.
Recommended summer sips: Key Lime Fizz & Chocolate Raspberry Martini
Solana {1616 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL; 872.315.3083}
Picture this: you’re sitting poolside with a frozen margarita in one hand and a street taco in the other while soaking up views of the Chicago skyline from a 6th floor rooftop. That’s just a day in the life at The Robey Chicago’s Solana, Wicker Park’s ONLY public rooftop pool bar. Embrace your inner tiki with Solana’s laid back vibes, tropical sips and authentic street-style tacos. The pool, bar + restaurant are open to both hotel guests and the general public.
Recommended summer sips: Frozen Piña Colada + Solana Spritz
via Gene’s Delicatessen
Gene's Delicatessen {4750 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL; 773.728.7243}
When you think of rooftop restaurants, a German sausage shop and beer hall may not come to mind, but that’s just because you've never been to Gene’s Delicatessen, Lincoln Square's hidden gem! In true beer hall fashion, their stunning greenery adorned rooftop garden space is filled with communal picnic tables, rotating beers on tap and a menu of Gene’s preservative-free smoked meats, all cooked on an open wood-fired grill. Make sure to also allow ample time for wandering the main floor delicatessen that’s absolutely overflowing with delicious specialties like homemade natural wood-smoked meats, imported European goodies, wine + beer, and curated meat + cheese baskets.
Recommended summer sips: Any seasonal tap beers!
Avli on the Park {180 North Field Boulevard, Chicago, IL; 312.600.9997}
Get a refreshing taste of the Mediterranean life at Avli on the Park, Lakeshore East’s hidden gem tucked alongside Maggie Daley Park. With close proximity to the park, the Loop and Mag Mile, Avli makes for a perfect stop during your day out exploring the city. Their Greek-inspired rooftop terrace is open for lunch, dinner, happy hour and weekend brunch, featuring a menu highlighting an abundance of light, bright spreads, mezze, raw bar delights and fresh fish focused entrèes. With a menu meant to be shared, breezy cabana seating and a flower laden backdrop, Avli’s rooftop is perfect for group outings, long work lunches, date nights and everything in between.
Recommended summer sips: Watermelon Margarita & Athenian Spritz
By Robyn Glaza | Market Manager