Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in South Side

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchIndian

Regions

ChicagoNear WestSouth Suburbs

Neighborhoods

BerwynBucktown / Wicker ParkDowntown / LoopEvergreen ParkGold Coast / StreetervilleLakeview / East Lakeview

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

60 restaurants available nearby

1. Il Culaccino

4.3

Awesome(1096)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Loop

Booked 23 times today

If your preferred time is unavailable please call for possible openings. Il Culaccino, the new fine Italian dining restaurant presented by the Franco’s Restaurant Group, comes to McCormick Square in Spring 2019. Anchored in the Arrive Lex Apartment Tower, 2134 South Indiana, Il Culaccino is just steps away from Wintrust Arena and a short walk from McCormick Place. At Il Culaccino, you’ll enjoy unique wines and delicious plates accompanied by the friendly and superior service that has become the hallmark of Franco’s Restaurant Group, family-owned since 1989.Be prepared to have your senses thrilled at Il Culaccino, before or after exploring McCormick Square, Chicago’s most exciting and vibrant new entertainment district.

2. Acanto

4.8

Exceptional(3938)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown / Loop

Booked 54 times today

Across from Millennium park and along Chicago’s Cultural Mile, Acanto Restaurant + Wine Bar is a treasured destination for those who appreciate authentic and approachable Italian food in a conversation-friendly atmosphere. Acanto serves seasonally-driven Italian cuisine from both regions of Italy utilizing artisanal ingredients from Midwest farmers and producers. Acanto boasts one of the most lauded wine programs in the US, including a 3-star rating by World of Fine Wine and a two-glass “Best of Excellence” rating by Wine Spectator. The libations menu is rounded out by Italian classics including spritzes and negronis along with craft cocktails, beer, and spirits. The word Acanto is the Italian translation of Acanthus, the flowery leaf featured prominently in Roman architecture. Famed architect Louis Sullivan used Acanthus in his distinctive terra cotta ornamentation found on the facade of the historically-landmarked building that houses Acanto.

3. Bandol

4.2

Awesome(282)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary French / American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 20 times today

Bandol blends French and Mediterranean classics with modern seafood, a raw bar, and American influences, inspired by the coastal town of Bandol. Its light-filled, art-deco space is ideal for everything from a morning espresso and pastry to a business lunch, memorable dinner, or late-night digestif. Parisian-style outdoor seating offers a relaxing escape in the heart of the city. Bandol serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekday happy hour, and weekend brunch.The upscale to-go coffee bar and bakery counter offers Lavazza coffee, grab-and-go breakfast items, and house-made pastries, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.Parking validation is available for guests parked at 172 W Madison Self-Park Garage. After 4 p.m. on weekends and weeknights, enjoy free parking with a $25 meal purchase. Bring your parking slip for validation. Not valid for valet parking.

4. Chateau Carbide

3.9

Excellent(221)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Cocktail Bar • River North (Chicago)

Booked 8 times today

Welcome to Château Carbide, a rooftop winter escape, just for you. See our inimitable seasonal style in full display, where luxurious, private lodges dot the rooftop scene, each adorned with cozy fireplaces and plush, intimate seating for up to 5 guests. Snack on a winter-inspired small bites including a French onion grilled cheese and sip seasonal cocktails while taking in the stunning city-wide views of Chicago and all its snowy splendor.Please note the following policies:**Chateau Carbide is a 21+ establishment**Light Bite service is available until 10:00 PM**Outdoor tables are subject to availability, and a reservation does not constitute an outdoor table. We do our best to accommodate all guest seating requests. **Reservations are encouraged but not required, subject to availability.

5. Tapas Valencia

4.7

Exceptional(2485)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas / Small Plates • South Loop

Booked 13 times today

Located in Chicago’s South loop, we offer creative Spanish tapas, unique cocktails, and a lively atmosphere with walls adorned in multi-colored mosaic artwork reminiscent of the art of the great Spanish artists Joan Miro and Antoni Gaudí! Whether you’re dining with friends and family, exploring on a first date, or planning your next big event, Tapas Valencia is the perfect backdrop for any occasion. We carry on the tradition of great food and service that was started at our original location, Mesón Sabika in Naperville.

6. Tuscany on Taylor

4.8

Exceptional(2241)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 14 times today

Tuscany on Taylor is the original Tuscany restaurant opened in 1990 in the heart of Little Italy. A comfortable trattoria, Tuscany serves Northern Italian favorites including: homemade pastas, pizzas from our wood-burning ovens, signature Italian chicken dishes, grilled veal and other authentic dishes. Private party space available.

7. Chez Joel

4.8

Exceptional(2691)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• French • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 15 times today

In the midst of Little Italy, Chez Joel creates the tastes and aromas of France for. Featuring traditional favorites, Chef Joel Kazouini offers his straightforward, expertly prepared Southern French cuisine. Chez Joel’s atmosphere is reminiscent of a true French bistro; its walls adorned with French posters and tables covered with butcher paper. The cozy environment makes Chez Joel the perfect spot for any romantic meal, and when weather permits, garden tables offer an open-air experience where you’ll find one of the most divine al fresco dining settings in the city. Chez Joel Since 1999

A photo of FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar restaurant

8. FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar

4.2

Awesome(15)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Downtown / Loop

Booked 5 times today

Experience farm-to-table dining in the heart of Downtown Chicago at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar. The acclaimed American grill concept, known for its wood-fired cooking, offers a menu featuring the Midwest's best meat, freshwater fish and produce. Steps from Lake Michigan and Millennium Park, FireLake is an inviting showcase for the excellent food and welcoming spirit that define our city.

9. Gibsons Italia

4.8

Exceptional(4199)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • River North (Chicago)

Booked 154 times today

Gibsons Italia is built on a tradition & elegance that is relentless in the pursuit of the very best. Chef-driven tastes of Italy are paired with the superiority of Gibsons Steakhouse, creating a restaurant that makes the familiar, exceptional. Beautiful private dining and events spaces available.

A photo of Quartino - Chicago restaurant

10. Quartino - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(11111)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • River North (Chicago)

Booked 153 times today

Quartino Ristorante is a lively, authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Chicago's River North neighborhood. Our menu features Italy's regional specialties including artisanal salumi, Neapolitan thin-crust pizza, house-made pasta, and seasonal dishes. Menu items, served in moderate portions and meant to be shared, are perfect for adventurous diners ready for a unique experience.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
Grand Rapids / Western Michigan •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
I have gone to the restaurant for years. I love it. Great atmosphere phenomenal food!
More info
AcantoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown / Loop
•
4.8
J
Judith L
Chicago / Illinois •33 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Been here many times. There is always a mix of delicious standards and new yummy specials. Always excellent. Service is attentive and friendly.
More info
Tapas ValenciaPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• South Loop
•
4.7
A
Anita
Chicago / Illinois •17 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Had an early resrevation and not yet crowded but the meal was excellent and the service good.
More info
BandolPrice: Moderate• Contemporary French / American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.2
T
TrevorVIP
Tampa / Central Florida West •33 reviews
4.0
Dined 7 days ago
The bucatini was excellent!!!! I would definitely go back here for a meal.
More info
Il CulaccinoPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Loop
•
4.3
J
Jessica
Orlando / Central Florida East •1 review
5.0
Dined on Mar 1, 2025
My best friend and I booked a table in the winter lodges at sunset and it was beautiful and the food and drinks were so yummy. The fire and blanket kept us pretty warm for a very cold night too thanks!
More info
Chateau CarbidePrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• River North (Chicago)
•
3.9

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