Restaurants

21 Best Rooftop Restaurants In Chicago

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Chicago boasts a stunning skyline, and what better way to take it all in than from one of the city's top rooftop restaurants? These elevated dining destinations offer a range of culinary delights perched atop iconic structures. 

Whether you're looking for an intimate terrace with panoramic views or a lively social hub buzzing with energy, these rooftop havens promise an unforgettable dining experience. Discover the 21 best rooftop restaurants Chicago has to offer and dine amidst the stunning backdrop of the Windy City's skyline.

1. Cindy's Rooftop

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Cindy's is a chic rooftop bar at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel that serves trendy vibes and seasonal dishes. Enjoy breathtaking views of Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and Lake Michigan from the terrace.

Whether you're planning a family lunch or a late-night date with cocktails, this Chicago rooftop restaurant caters to both locals and visitors as an all-purpose hotspot.

Address: 12 S Michigan Ave, Downtown / The Loop

2. LH Rooftop

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Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, and the Magnificent Mile while savoring classic cocktails and small bites at LH Rooftop. 

Situated within the LondonHouse Chicago Hotel, it's an excellent spot to unwind and take in the breathtaking scenery. However, if you prefer to stay in, the hotel offers luxurious suites with hot tubs for a truly indulgent experience.

Address: 85 E Wacker Dr 22nd Floor, The Loop

3. Homestead On The Roof

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Homestead On The Roof is a rooftop restaurant that serves farm-to-table New American cuisine sourced from their on-site garden. It offers a warm and cozy interior with a seasonally rotating tasting menu. 

The true charm of Homestead lies in its 85-seat outdoor rooftop patio, rooftop garden, and fireplace, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a cozy night out with friends.

Address: 1924 W Chicago Ave, West Town

4. VU Rooftop Bar

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VU Rooftop Bar provides a unique panoramic view of the southern part of Madison City. The venue comprises three bars, two decks, fire pits, and a range of small bites served with signature cocktails.

The cocktail menu offers seasonal drinks such as the Tropical Lush, which pairs perfectly with scallion kimchi flatbread or chicken thighs with sweet chili sauce. 

Address: 133 E Cermak Rd, South Loop

5. Kennedy Rooftop

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On the hunt for rooftop restaurants in Chicago? The Kennedy, atop the Hyatt in Wicker Park, offers panoramic skyline views. It has an extensive menu featuring cocktails and bar delicacies, all enjoyed amidst ample seating.

This spot is perfect for year-round enjoyment, with heated private domes adorned with twinkling lights available for rent during the winter—a cozy and stylish way to experience the cityscape.

Address: 1551 W North Ave Ashland, Noble Square

6. The J. Parker

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The J. Parker Rooftop Bar, located on top of Hotel Lincoln, boasts some of the most breathtaking views in downtown Chicago. The bar's atrium has 140 outdoor and 55 indoor seats, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The food menu is small but good, featuring smaller plates such as 'Buffalo Cauliflower' and 'Soy Ginger Chicken Wings' and larger options like 'The J. Parker Burger.'

Address: 1816 N Clark St, Lincoln Park

7. ROOF on theWit

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Elevate your Chicago experience at ROOF, a rooftop bar perched on the 27th floor of theWit. The terrace boasts a stylish, chic decor featuring long community tables and private lounge cabanas. 

Delight your taste buds with Neapolitan-inspired pizzas from the hearth oven, paired with expertly crafted cocktails, all within a relaxed lounge atmosphere.

Address: 201 N State St 27th Floor, Downtown

8. Cerise Rooftop

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Located 26 stories up at the Virgin Hotels Chicago, Cerise Rooftop is a fantastic cocktail lounge and nightclub that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline amidst all the skyscrapers.

However, if you're looking for a quiet place to dine with unlimited food options, you should consider visiting some of the finest buffets in Chicago that will tantalize your taste buds.

Address: 203 N Wabash Ave 26th floor, Theatre District

9. Terrace 16

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If you're searching for a Downtown Chicago rooftop restaurants with breathtaking views, a fantastic ambiance, and an exceptional dining experience, then Terrace 16 is the perfect choice. 

The restaurant features a lively indoor bar and dining area and a spacious outdoor seating area on its picturesque terrace, all accentuating stunning views of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Address: 401 N Wabash Ave 16th Floor, North Side

10. bar avec

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Bar Avec is a rooftop oasis adorned with lush plants and trees, providing shade and a distinct Spanish-inspired menu. Unique from the lower level, the rooftop offers small plates like mussels escabeche, crudos, and enticing entrees such as fideo noodle paella. 

Perfect for events and celebrations, it's also an ideal spot to host gatherings. Alternatively, for a more lavish experience, you can book a party yacht in Chicago for a memorable celebration with friends.

Address: 640 N La Salle Dr 8th floor, River North

11. Boleo

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Are you lodged at Kimpton Gray Hotel? If so, make sure to visit Boloe, a chic rooftop restaurant in Chicago. Revel in breathtaking views of the city skyline amidst an ambiance infused with South American flair. 

Immerse yourself in a lively atmosphere where inventive Latin-inspired cocktails, delightful cuisine, pulsating music, and modern design come together.

Address: 122 W Monroe St, Theater District

12. NoMI Kitchen Chicago

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Perched on the seventh floor of Park Hyatt Chicago, NoMI Kitchen offers breathtaking views of Water Tower Place and Lake Michigan. This dining gem specializes in modern American cuisine, highlighting local, seasonal ingredients. 

Step into an elegant, sophisticated interior adorned with dark wood accents, plush seating, and an open kitchen. This place is worth a visit for a cozy night with great food and drinks.

Address: Seventh Floor, 800 Michigan Ave

13. IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge

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Atop the Godfrey Hotel in lively River North, IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge beckons with a sophisticated and welcoming ambiance, where city views and delicious cuisine meet. 

Adorned with modern lounge furniture, the rooftop terrace boasts water features, fireplaces, and captivating views of the southern Chicago skyline—a perfect setting for a lovely evening.

Address: 127 W Huron St, River North

14. Aba Restaurant

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Aba Restaurant is a high-end destination for Mediterranean cuisine and cocktails, boasting a lounge-style rooftop patio. 

Here, you can try their signature dishes, including Smoky Garlic Hummus, Muhammara, Shawarma-Spiced Skirt Steak, Heirloom Crispy Chicken Thigh, Grilled Salmon Kebab, and more.

Address: 302 N Green St 3rd Floor, West Loop

15. Tanta Chicago

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Tanta offers inventive Peruvian cuisine in a stylish Peru-inspired setting, celebrated for its signature pisco sour cocktail. The private dining room on the second floor and a seasonal rooftop terrace add an exclusive touch to the experience. 

Tanta exudes upscale River North ambiance, with club-like lighting and a vibrantly colorful dining room, reflecting the bright and exciting dishes on the menu.

Address: 118 W Grand Ave

16. Gibsons Italia

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Gibsons Italia is an Italian steak and pasta restaurant on three levels, featuring a vast wine list, two fireplaces, and a rooftop deck. The restaurant combines upscale steakhouse with traditional Italian classics.

The restaurant's interior is modern and bright, with large windows overlooking the river and a retractable roof. It is an ideal place for a romantic date.

Address: 233 N Canal St, River North

17. CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO

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If you want to sip your favorite drink while enjoying a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, then CloudBar on the 94th floor is the perfect place for you. You will surely have a great time here.

It offers a captivating ambiance with its mesmerizing views and cocktails. The sleek furnishings, warm lighting, and stylish decor create an inviting space to unwind and connect with friends or colleagues.

Address: 875 N Michigan Ave 94th floor

18. Cabra

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Cabra Chicago is a lively rooftop spot, drawing inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. The rooftop setting is spirited and colorful, featuring a bright, year-round interior restaurant and an outdoor patio for warmer days. 

Whether it's a lively night on the town with a date or a gathering with friends, Cabra invites you to sample a variety of Chef Stephanie Izard's plates in a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.

Address: 200 N Green St, West Loop

19. etta

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Etta is a reasonably priced restaurant in the neighborhood offering delectable wood-fired dishes. It is a popular spot among locals, and the menu features New American cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. 

Here, you can enjoy mouth-watering pizza, warm focaccia, and fresh and crisp seasonal salads. The restaurant also offers family-style shared meals such as pig and lobster picnics.

Address: 1840 W North Ave, West Town

20. Cira Chicago

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Cira is one of the best Chicago restaurants for contemporary Mediterranean breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. The menu features delectable dishes such as brown butter hummus with chorizo verde and grilled octopus with horseradish. 

Whether you're looking for a casual or upscale dining experience, Cira is an excellent choice. The restaurant boasts a modern and stylish ambiance, and the food is both delicious and beautifully presented.

Address: 200 N Green St, West Loop

21. Lonesome Rose

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Lonesome Rose is a Tex-Mex-inspired bar and restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant has an open and airy ambiance, both inside and out. It is surrounded by lush greenery that adds to its charm. 

Although the rooftop terrace of Lonesome Rose may not be the highest or most panoramic in town, it has a charming and relaxing atmosphere that makes it worth a visit on a sunny day.

Address: 2101 N California Ave, Logan Square