The weather is warming up this weekend. For how long… who knows? But if you are as eager as I am and looking to take advantage, here are some of my favorite bars that offer outdoor patios to grab a drink.
The Hi-Lo in Humboldt Park
This neighborhood cocktail bar has a beautiful half-enclosed patio bigger than your parents' backyard. The outdoor space lends itself perfectly for larger groups, while inside feels more intimate. Their menu offers two types of house cocktails — their “lo” picks for all-day sipping and “hi” picks for something a bit boozier. My favorites are their frozen Naked and Famous and the refreshing Cucumber Rickety — both on the stronger side.
Friends of Friends in West Town
On the corner of Grand and Damen, this cocktail bar came to West Town about a year ago and has become a local favorite. Their bar is dark, inviting, and spacious. It transitions into a proper patio with a fire pit at the back. Their $14 house cocktail names tell you exactly what to expect — my favorite is the Bright and Velvety. Check out their Instagram for restaurant pop-ups and events.
Maria’s Packaged Goods and Community Bar in Bridgeport
Bridgeport’s beloved Maria’s is a 30-year-old liquor store-slash-bar that offers two patio spaces — one directly behind the bar and another that it shares with Kimski, the Korean Polish street food restaurant. Kimski is celebrating 10 years with an all-day party May 16 with different Chicago restaurant pop-ups and DJs. Did you know Maria’s and Kimski are a family affair? The brothers who run Kimski are Maria’s sons.
Pilsen Yards in Pilsen
Pilsen Yards has an open-air concept in the back with a half-enclosed patio and bar. It’s the perfect spot for a patio dinner. Their weekly specials, particularly their half-off Nayarit-style mussels on Wednesdays, are worth paying attention to. As a proud 60608 resident, I love their neighborhood nights when they offer neighbors a discount.
