DineGuides

Outdoor Dining in Near West Side

7 restaurants in Near West Side. Part of our Chicago Outdoor Dining guide.

Green Street Smoked Meats
#1Outdoor
6 photos

Green Street Smoked Meats

BBQ·$$
📍 112 N Green St ↗

This Chicago BBQ joint feels like a lively urban hangout with a cool, dimly lit industrial vibe. Counter service means you pick your meats and sides before finding a seat at the communal tables. The focus is squarely on the smoked meats, which are well-regarded for tenderness and flavor.

🍽️95Food
✨90Vibe
💰80Value
💬

“My 1 year old daughter has a mustard allergy and the whole staff was amazing at knowing what rubs and dishes contained mustard!”

💬

“The jalapenos poppers and sides of coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni salad and tater tot casserole.”

💬

“The bar had a great selection of local draft beers on top.”

Ideal for
Families with kidsWatching the gameSolo dining
Rosebud Taylor Street
#2Outdoor
6 photos

Rosebud Taylor Street

Italian·$$$

Rosebud Taylor Street brings a taste of old-school Chicago Italian to the neighborhood. It's a place where the staff treats you like family and the atmosphere transports you back in time. Expect generous portions and a lively, classic vibe.

🍽️88Food
✨88Vibe
💰75Value
Ideal for
Special occasions & anniversariesNostalgia seekers & Chicago history buffsDate nights seeking romantic ambiance
LÝRA
#3Outdoor
5 photos

LÝRA

Mediterranean·$$$$

This West Loop spot offers a vibrant, upscale Greek-Mediterranean experience, perfect for lively evenings. It's a place where the atmosphere buzzes, especially on weekends, and the kitchen delivers flavorful, modern takes on classic dishes.

🍽️90Food
✨92Vibe
💰65Value
🔊65Noise
💬

“Our server Nicole was amazing! She was attentive and really made my birthday night out special.”

💬

“The octopus was so delicious as a starter and the Deconstructed Pastitsio was absolutely amazing.”

💬

“Best upscale Greek restaurant in Chicago hands down. Consistent experience and we go almost monthly.”

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningLively evenings
The Oakville Grill & Cellar
#4Outdoor

The Oakville Grill & Cellar

American·$$$
📍 163 N Green St ↗

This West Loop spot offers a versatile, upscale atmosphere perfect for any occasion, from intimate dinners to large celebrations. The menu features fresh, seasonal dishes complemented by an impressive wine selection, making it a sophisticated destination.

🍽️88Food
✨95Vibe
💰75Value
⏰70Wait
💬

“Kennedi was the best server ever! She made this dinner even more special for my mother, sister and I.”

💬

“The food was really good. One thing that I was disappointed was that I had to send my chicken back because it wasn't cooked well.”

💬

“Our server was so kind and attentive, and always made sure we did not run out of drinks.”

Ideal for
Date nightGroup diningSpecial occasions
One North Kitchen & Bar
#5Outdoor

One North Kitchen & Bar

American·$$
📍 1 N Wacker Dr ↗

This Loop spot is a go-to for pre-theater dining, offering a lively atmosphere and a full bar. It's particularly well-suited for groups and those seeking a convenient bite before catching a show.

🍽️85Food
✨85Vibe
💰75Value
⏰68Wait
💬

“I come to Chicago for work once a quarter and I know I can depend on excellent service every single time.”

💬

“The staff, from the chef to the wait staff are all friendly and very attentive.”

💬

“The place was packed but they seated us at the bar within 10 minutes.”

Ideal for
Pre-theater diningGroup diningHappy hour
The Vig West Loop
#6Outdoor

The Vig West Loop

American·$$$

This West Loop spot buzzes with energy, offering a lively atmosphere perfect for groups and dates, especially during its popular happy hour and weekend brunch. While the vibe is a major draw, be prepared for a loud environment that can make conversation challenging.

🍽️82Food
✨88Vibe
💰65Value
🔊45Noise
💬

“VERY easy street parking for guests”

💬

“We've tried [it] at other locations - different experience here”

Ideal for
Celebratory occasions (birthdays, anniversaries, promotions)Group dining and social gatheringsSports-watching and game-day events
Elske
#7Outdoor

Elske

American·$$$

Elske offers a serene escape with its Danish hygge-inspired ambiance, featuring a cozy fireplace and a charming courtyard. The kitchen focuses on clean, elegant flavors, with a tasting menu that highlights seasonal ingredients and creative, subtle twists.

🍽️75Food
✨90Vibe
💰60Value
🔊55Noise
💬

“Flavors you've never had before”

💬

“Very expensive. Leave absolutely starving”

Ideal for
Special occasions (anniversaries, birthdays)Scandinavian cuisine enthusiastsDiners seeking refined ambiance over spectacle