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A rooftop bar with views of Downtown Chicago.
Even on misty days, the Downtown skyline is remarkable.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Where to Dine With Gorgeous Views of the Chicago Skyline and Lake Michigan

Everything tastes better with a spectacular backdrop

by Naomi Waxman and Eater Staff Updated
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Even on misty days, the Downtown skyline is remarkable.
| Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago
by Naomi Waxman and Eater Staff Updated

Chicago has some truly gorgeous scenery, a turn of good fortune that’s always enhanced by dining and drinking opportunities. In turn, local hospitality operators have capitalized on the lure of the sweeping cityscape by creating plenty of restaurants and bars with exemplary views. Draw inspiration from modern and historic structures, not to mention the grey-blue depths of Lake Michigan, by exploring Eater Chicago’s lineup of the top spots for food, cocktails, and a stunning city backdrop.

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North Pond

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One of Chicago's most picturesque dining experiences is at this Michelin-starred spot next to a pond in Lincoln Park. The farm-to-table restaurant feels like taking a trip to the country while downtown skyscrapers rise in the distance.

2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 477-5845
(773) 477-5845

Also featured in:

The J. Parker

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This rooftop draw atop Hotel Lincoln gives bird’s-eye views of the lakefront and downtown, along with excellent cocktails and small plates. A retractable roof makes it comfortable year-round.

1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 254-4747
(312) 254-4747

Also featured in:

Utopian Tailgate

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Head to the rooftop above the Second City complex and discover a sprawling adult playground full of colorful furniture, picnic tables, lush plants, lawn games, tire swings, and more. The views only add to the fun while the menu features tailgate-themed foods like sliders, pizzas, and nachos, plus large-format cocktails and house shots. Sports fans will appreciate that there are numerous TVs showing the games throughout the space.

1608 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 210-7799
(312) 210-7799

Also featured in:

The Robey

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The Wicker Park hotel the Robey has multiple options for a good time. Cabana Club, a rooftop bar on the building’s sixth floor, features a pool, two bars (serving frozen drinks), and unobstructed 360-degree views. For those seeking a more intimate setting, saunter over to the Up Room, the midcentury modern lounge on the 13th floor, to enjoy creative craft cocktails and dazzling sights.

2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(872) 315-3050
(872) 315-3050

Also featured in:

Azul

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In an ideal situation for view-seekers, Latin seafood spot Azul offers a look at the Chicago River on one side and the Downtown skyline on the other. The restaurant houses multiple levels, including a lounge and a spacious rooftop bar.

1177 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(773) 770-3766
(773) 770-3766
An outdoor dining space overlooking the Chicago River.
There are tables set up along the water.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Also featured in:

Devereaux

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Chicagoans can live their best lives at this swanky rooftop lounge and bar in the Gold Coast. Devereaux, located up high on the 18th floor of the Viceroy Chicago, combines sophisticated design with sweeping sightlines. The food and beverage program is equally impressive, boasting expertly crafted cocktails and elevated refreshments like truffle deviled eggs and Maine lobster sliders. There’s even a pool for those hot summer days.

1112 N State St 18th Floor, Chicago, IL 60610

Also featured in:

The Signature Room at the 95th

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Very few restaurants anywhere in the world offers views that can match those experienced from the Signature Room, the fine dining restaurant on the 95th floor of 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly the John Hancock Center) — unless it’s those from the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor, for those who just want a drink. (And for visitors who only want the view, it’s worth stopping by the women’s bathroom.)

875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 787-9596
(312) 787-9596

Also featured in:

Homestead on the Roof

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Although it’s not near the lake, Homestead on the Roof is green oasis above a bustling Chicago neighborhood. Sample dishes made from seasonal ingredients, plus standout desserts and drinks. Fun fact: Some of the restaurant’s produce comes directly from its rooftop garden.

1924 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 332-2354
(773) 332-2354

Also featured in:

Z Bar

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At Z Bar, the contemporary cocktail lounge on the Peninsula hotel’s sixth floor, one can sip a Manhattan served over ice that’s laced with 24-karat gold flakes and garnished with black truffle or saffron bitters. The cocktail list spans the globe in terms of flavors and spirits, while the terrace provides glowing views of the Mag Mile.

108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 573-6888
(312) 573-6888

Also featured in:

Bar Avec

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One Off Hospitality opened a second location of its popular Mediterranean-inspired wine bar Avec last year in River North. With it also came a rooftop patio, dubbed Bar Avec, on the eighth floor of the same building. Complementing the stunning views is a menu that channels the Iberian Peninsula. Folks can enjoy items like smoked salmon conserva, clam toast, cheese plates, gin and tonics, and frozen daiquiris.

640 N LaSalle Dr 8th floor, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 736-1740
(312) 736-1740

Also featured in:

Caffè Oliva

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The views from this seasonal lakefront spot on the Ohio Street Beach are nearly unparalleled. Sit in the shadows of some of the city’s tallest buildings and dine on sandwiches, burgers, light starters, accompanied by a solid selection of libations, including fish bowls. Pups are welcome to join the fun, too.

550 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 612-0734
(312) 612-0734

Offshore

Copy Link

The nation’s largest rooftop venue gives locals an enticing reason to visit Navy Pier. The all-seasons bar and lounge spans 36,000 square feet and is decked out with fire pits, a DJ stage, lots of cozy seats, and a glass-enclosed area so visitors can still admire the unmatched views of the skyline from the east when the temperature dips. The menu ranges from pizzas and sliders to oysters and filet mignon.

1000 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 535-6660
(312) 535-6660

Also featured in:

Chicago Cut Steakhouse

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Chicago Cut charges top dollar, which not only gets its customers the finest cuts of beef and possible celebrity sightings, but also sterling skyline views from the River North side of the Chicago River. Bonus points in the summertime for al fresco dining on the elevated riverside patio.

300 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 329-1800
(312) 329-1800

Also featured in:

LondonHouse Chicago

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LondonHouse Chicago has arguably the city’s most prominent outdoor terrace and there’s no denying the appeal. The tri-level rooftop on the 22nd floor is a bucket-list-worthy destination that offers panoramic views of towering skyscrapers and the Chicago River. The kitchen rounds out the experience with re-imagined American fare highlighting fresh seasonal ingredients and global influences. 

85 E Wacker Dr 22nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 357-1200
(312) 357-1200

River Roast

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The large restaurant that specializes in large chunks of roasted protein has an elevated outdoor patio that offers one of the best downtown riverside views in Chicago. Diners can even take a water taxi right to the door.

315 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 822-0100
(312) 822-0100

Also featured in:

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Aba

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Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’s Aba serves as the counterpart to Ēma, both of which are helmed by chef C.J. Jacobson and explore the flavors of the Mediterranean. Aba spans 4,000 square feet, including a lush rooftop patio stamped with greenery and killer views, all the better to enjoy both boozy and zero-proof cocktails.

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607
(773) 645-1400
(773) 645-1400

Also featured in:

Château Carbide

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Perched atop the Loop’s gorgeous and historic Carbide & Carbon Building, patrons at Chateau Carbide are treated to a lovely bird’s-eye view of downtown Chicago in sleek, Art Deco digs. It offers a relaxed atmosphere during the day and at 5 p.m. transitions into a clubby spot with French house music.

230 N Michigan Ave 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 777-9000
(312) 777-9000

Also featured in:

Raised

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This indoor/outdoor lounge on the third floor of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel overlooking the Chicago River has one of the city’s most scenic backdrops. Grab a seat on a cushy couch and snack on fancy bar food, such as truffle fries, corn nuts, and cheese-and-charcuterie boards. The beverage program focuses on seasonal cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients as well as beers brewed in Chicago. There are also heat lamps on the patio to help keep things comfortable.

1 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 795-3444
(312) 795-3444

Also featured in:

Cabra

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When the chic London-based lifestyle hotel the Hoxton touched down in Chicago in 2019, the company decided to partner with local hitmaker Stephanie Izard of Girl & the Goat fame. Cabra, which claims the Hoxton’s rooftop terrace, is dedicated to Peruvian cuisine and affords awesome views of the West Loop’s cityscape.

200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 761-1717
(312) 761-1717

Also featured in:

Beatnik on the River

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The sibling of Bonhomme Hospitality Group’s globetrotting hotspot Beatnik, Beatnik on the River brings the boho-chic vibes to the Loop. The alluring riverside locale is decorated with colorful and comfy couches, tasseled umbrellas, and lush greenery. Guests can expect a menu that’s influenced by Spanish, Mediterranean, and South American flavors from executive chef Marcos Campos.

180 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 526-3345
(312) 526-3345

Also featured in:

Nobu Chicago

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Prime views and indulgent luxuries are aplenty at the city’s first Nobu Hotel. The ritzy chain co-owned by Robert De Niro pulls out all the stops to impress, and on the rooftop, guests are in for an especially extravagant experience. Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s Japanese-Peruvian menu features fresh sushi and hot dishes, such as miso black cod in butter lettuce, to go with the spectacular sights.

854 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 779-8800
(312) 779-8800

Also featured in:

Cindy's Rooftop

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The stylish rooftop of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel is one of the hottest spots in town, with gorgeous views of Millennium Park and, beyond that, Lake Michigan. The cocktails and food are also top notch.

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 792-3502
(312) 792-3502

VU Rooftop

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There aren’t many rooftops on the South Side so VU was a welcome addition when it opened in 2018. Located near Wintrust Arena and McCormick Place, the 13,000-square-foot space sits 22 stories above ground and has three bars, two patios, a karaoke room, outdoor fire pits, and retractable windows.

133 E Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 528-0191
(312) 528-0191

Also featured in:

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North Pond

2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

One of Chicago's most picturesque dining experiences is at this Michelin-starred spot next to a pond in Lincoln Park. The farm-to-table restaurant feels like taking a trip to the country while downtown skyscrapers rise in the distance.

2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 477-5845
(773) 477-5845

The J. Parker

1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

This rooftop draw atop Hotel Lincoln gives bird’s-eye views of the lakefront and downtown, along with excellent cocktails and small plates. A retractable roof makes it comfortable year-round.

1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 254-4747
(312) 254-4747

Utopian Tailgate

1608 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610

Head to the rooftop above the Second City complex and discover a sprawling adult playground full of colorful furniture, picnic tables, lush plants, lawn games, tire swings, and more. The views only add to the fun while the menu features tailgate-themed foods like sliders, pizzas, and nachos, plus large-format cocktails and house shots. Sports fans will appreciate that there are numerous TVs showing the games throughout the space.

1608 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 210-7799
(312) 210-7799

The Robey

2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

The Wicker Park hotel the Robey has multiple options for a good time. Cabana Club, a rooftop bar on the building’s sixth floor, features a pool, two bars (serving frozen drinks), and unobstructed 360-degree views. For those seeking a more intimate setting, saunter over to the Up Room, the midcentury modern lounge on the 13th floor, to enjoy creative craft cocktails and dazzling sights.

2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
(872) 315-3050
(872) 315-3050

Azul

1177 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642

In an ideal situation for view-seekers, Latin seafood spot Azul offers a look at the Chicago River on one side and the Downtown skyline on the other. The restaurant houses multiple levels, including a lounge and a spacious rooftop bar.

1177 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
(773) 770-3766
(773) 770-3766
An outdoor dining space overlooking the Chicago River.
There are tables set up along the water.
Barry Brecheisen/Eater Chicago

Devereaux

1112 N State St 18th Floor, Chicago, IL 60610

Chicagoans can live their best lives at this swanky rooftop lounge and bar in the Gold Coast. Devereaux, located up high on the 18th floor of the Viceroy Chicago, combines sophisticated design with sweeping sightlines. The food and beverage program is equally impressive, boasting expertly crafted cocktails and elevated refreshments like truffle deviled eggs and Maine lobster sliders. There’s even a pool for those hot summer days.

1112 N State St 18th Floor, Chicago, IL 60610

The Signature Room at the 95th

875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Very few restaurants anywhere in the world offers views that can match those experienced from the Signature Room, the fine dining restaurant on the 95th floor of 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly the John Hancock Center) — unless it’s those from the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor, for those who just want a drink. (And for visitors who only want the view, it’s worth stopping by the women’s bathroom.)

875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 787-9596
(312) 787-9596

Homestead on the Roof

1924 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Although it’s not near the lake, Homestead on the Roof is green oasis above a bustling Chicago neighborhood. Sample dishes made from seasonal ingredients, plus standout desserts and drinks. Fun fact: Some of the restaurant’s produce comes directly from its rooftop garden.

1924 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 332-2354
(773) 332-2354

Z Bar

108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611

At Z Bar, the contemporary cocktail lounge on the Peninsula hotel’s sixth floor, one can sip a Manhattan served over ice that’s laced with 24-karat gold flakes and garnished with black truffle or saffron bitters. The cocktail list spans the globe in terms of flavors and spirits, while the terrace provides glowing views of the Mag Mile.

108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 573-6888
(312) 573-6888

Bar Avec

640 N LaSalle Dr 8th floor, Chicago, IL 60654

One Off Hospitality opened a second location of its popular Mediterranean-inspired wine bar Avec last year in River North. With it also came a rooftop patio, dubbed Bar Avec, on the eighth floor of the same building. Complementing the stunning views is a menu that channels the Iberian Peninsula. Folks can enjoy items like smoked salmon conserva, clam toast, cheese plates, gin and tonics, and frozen daiquiris.

640 N LaSalle Dr 8th floor, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 736-1740
(312) 736-1740

Caffè Oliva

550 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

The views from this seasonal lakefront spot on the Ohio Street Beach are nearly unparalleled. Sit in the shadows of some of the city’s tallest buildings and dine on sandwiches, burgers, light starters, accompanied by a solid selection of libations, including fish bowls. Pups are welcome to join the fun, too.

550 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 612-0734
(312) 612-0734

Offshore

1000 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

The nation’s largest rooftop venue gives locals an enticing reason to visit Navy Pier. The all-seasons bar and lounge spans 36,000 square feet and is decked out with fire pits, a DJ stage, lots of cozy seats, and a glass-enclosed area so visitors can still admire the unmatched views of the skyline from the east when the temperature dips. The menu ranges from pizzas and sliders to oysters and filet mignon.

1000 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 535-6660
(312) 535-6660

Chicago Cut Steakhouse

300 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654

Chicago Cut charges top dollar, which not only gets its customers the finest cuts of beef and possible celebrity sightings, but also sterling skyline views from the River North side of the Chicago River. Bonus points in the summertime for al fresco dining on the elevated riverside patio.

300 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 329-1800
(312) 329-1800

LondonHouse Chicago

85 E Wacker Dr 22nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60601

LondonHouse Chicago has arguably the city’s most prominent outdoor terrace and there’s no denying the appeal. The tri-level rooftop on the 22nd floor is a bucket-list-worthy destination that offers panoramic views of towering skyscrapers and the Chicago River. The kitchen rounds out the experience with re-imagined American fare highlighting fresh seasonal ingredients and global influences. 

85 E Wacker Dr 22nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 357-1200
(312) 357-1200

River Roast

315 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654

The large restaurant that specializes in large chunks of roasted protein has an elevated outdoor patio that offers one of the best downtown riverside views in Chicago. Diners can even take a water taxi right to the door.

315 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 822-0100
(312) 822-0100

Related Maps

Aba

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607

Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises’s Aba serves as the counterpart to Ēma, both of which are helmed by chef C.J. Jacobson and explore the flavors of the Mediterranean. Aba spans 4,000 square feet, including a lush rooftop patio stamped with greenery and killer views, all the better to enjoy both boozy and zero-proof cocktails.

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607
(773) 645-1400
(773) 645-1400

Château Carbide

230 N Michigan Ave 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601

Perched atop the Loop’s gorgeous and historic Carbide & Carbon Building, patrons at Chateau Carbide are treated to a lovely bird’s-eye view of downtown Chicago in sleek, Art Deco digs. It offers a relaxed atmosphere during the day and at 5 p.m. transitions into a clubby spot with French house music.

230 N Michigan Ave 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 777-9000
(312) 777-9000

Raised

1 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

This indoor/outdoor lounge on the third floor of the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel overlooking the Chicago River has one of the city’s most scenic backdrops. Grab a seat on a cushy couch and snack on fancy bar food, such as truffle fries, corn nuts, and cheese-and-charcuterie boards. The beverage program focuses on seasonal cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients as well as beers brewed in Chicago. There are also heat lamps on the patio to help keep things comfortable.

1 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 795-3444
(312) 795-3444

Cabra

200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607

When the chic London-based lifestyle hotel the Hoxton touched down in Chicago in 2019, the company decided to partner with local hitmaker Stephanie Izard of Girl & the Goat fame. Cabra, which claims the Hoxton’s rooftop terrace, is dedicated to Peruvian cuisine and affords awesome views of the West Loop’s cityscape.

200 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 761-1717
(312) 761-1717

Beatnik on the River

180 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

The sibling of Bonhomme Hospitality Group’s globetrotting hotspot Beatnik, Beatnik on the River brings the boho-chic vibes to the Loop. The alluring riverside locale is decorated with colorful and comfy couches, tasseled umbrellas, and lush greenery. Guests can expect a menu that’s influenced by Spanish, Mediterranean, and South American flavors from executive chef Marcos Campos.

180 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 526-3345
(312) 526-3345

Nobu Chicago

854 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607

Prime views and indulgent luxuries are aplenty at the city’s first Nobu Hotel. The ritzy chain co-owned by Robert De Niro pulls out all the stops to impress, and on the rooftop, guests are in for an especially extravagant experience. Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s Japanese-Peruvian menu features fresh sushi and hot dishes, such as miso black cod in butter lettuce, to go with the spectacular sights.

854 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 779-8800
(312) 779-8800

Cindy's Rooftop

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

The stylish rooftop of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel is one of the hottest spots in town, with gorgeous views of Millennium Park and, beyond that, Lake Michigan. The cocktails and food are also top notch.

12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 792-3502
(312) 792-3502

VU Rooftop

133 E Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616

There aren’t many rooftops on the South Side so VU was a welcome addition when it opened in 2018. Located near Wintrust Arena and McCormick Place, the 13,000-square-foot space sits 22 stories above ground and has three bars, two patios, a karaoke room, outdoor fire pits, and retractable windows.

133 E Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 528-0191
(312) 528-0191

Related Maps