Rooftop restaurants in Chicago with killer views
Chicago's panoramic rooftop restaurants
Chicago is home to many spectacular rooftop restaurants, each offering its own unique atmosphere, views, and culinary experience. For breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, and the city skyline, Cindy's at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel and The J. Parker in Lincoln Park are two excellent choices. For a more avant-garde culinary experience, The Raised serves up imaginative cocktails alongside small plates featuring unusual ingredients and flavors.
IO Godfrey and Upstairs at The Gwen both offer impressive views of the city and excellent contemporary American cuisine with a twist. Finally, for stunning views of the Chicago River, the LondonHouse Rooftop and Raised Rooftop Bar are both great choices. No matter which rooftop restaurant you choose, you're sure to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience with some of the best views in the city.
PLEASE NOTE THAT MOST OF THESE VERY POPULAR ROOFTOP SPOTS IN THE LIST ALLOW FOR 30 DAYS ADVANCED RESERVATIONS. It is highly recommended that you make advanced reservations.
Cindy's Rooftop Restaurant
Cindy's Rooftop Restaurant is located on the top floor of the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel in downtown Chicago. The restaurant's menu is focused on seasonal American cuisine with global influences, using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. This will give you some idea about the culinary aspects of Cindy's Rooftop Restaurant:
Small Plates: The menu at Cindy's Rooftop features a variety of small plates and shareable dishes, perfect for groups or as a starter before the main course. Popular options include the beef tartare with quail egg and crispy shallots, the fried chicken wings with hot honey sauce, and the grilled octopus with chorizo and romesco sauce.
Entrees: The restaurant's entree selection features a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Highlights include the grilled hanger steak with chimichurri and roasted potatoes, the roasted salmon with quinoa and fennel salad, and the vegetarian mushroom "pork chop" with apple puree and kale.
Brunch: On weekends, Cindy's Rooftop serves a brunch menu featuring both classic and creative breakfast and lunch dishes. Popular options include the avocado toast with poached eggs and pickled onion, the breakfast burrito with chorizo and avocado salsa, and the lemon ricotta pancakes with blueberry compote.
Beverage Program: The restaurant's beverage program includes an extensive wine list, a selection of local and craft beers, and creative cocktails made with fresh ingredients. The cocktail menu features options like the "Rooftop Spritz" made with gin, elderflower, and sparkling wine, and the "Pineapple Express" made with rum, pineapple, and lime.
In addition to the food and drinks, the atmosphere at Cindy's Rooftop is worth mentioning. The rooftop setting provides stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant's decor is eclectic and playful, with a mix of vintage and modern furnishings and colorful accents.
The street address for Cindy's Rooftop at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel is 12 S Michigan Ave. Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 30 days in advance. You should plan to book at least a week in advance. Google maps link
Londonhouse Rooftop
The LondonHouse rooftop restaurant is called LH Rooftop, and it's located in the historic LondonHouse Hotel in downtown Chicago. The restaurant's menu is focused on modern American cuisine with a global twist, featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Here's a description of the culinary aspects of LH Rooftop:
Small Plates: The menu at LH Rooftop includes a variety of small plates and shareable dishes. Popular options include the tuna poke with avocado and sesame, the shrimp and grits with andouille sausage and white cheddar, and the chicken meatballs with tomato sauce and parmesan.
Entrees: The restaurant's entree selection features a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Highlights include the grilled lamb chops with roasted vegetables and tzatziki sauce, the pan-seared salmon with truffle risotto and asparagus, and the mushroom and goat cheese flatbread with arugula and balsamic glaze.
Desserts: The dessert menu at LH Rooftop includes a variety of sweet treats, including the warm chocolate chip cookie skillet with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce, and the seasonal fruit crisp with oat crumble and vanilla ice cream.
Beverage Program: The restaurant's beverage program includes an extensive wine list, a selection of local and craft beers, and creative cocktails made with fresh ingredients. The cocktail menu features options like the "Gin & Jam" made with gin, blackberry jam, and lemon juice, and the "Smoking Jacket" made with scotch, honey, and smoked orange bitters.
In addition to the food and drinks, the atmosphere at LH Rooftop is worth mentioning. The rooftop setting provides stunning views of the Chicago River and the city skyline, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant's decor is modern and sophisticated, with sleek furnishings and a neutral color scheme.
The street address for LH Rooftop at LondonHouse Hotel is 85 E Upper Wacker Dr. Google maps link
The Godfrey Hotel Rooftop Restaurant
The Godfrey Hotel rooftop restaurant and lounge is called IO Godfrey and is located in the River North neighborhood of downtown Chicago. The restaurant's menu is focused on contemporary American cuisine with a global twist, featuring locally sourced ingredients and artisanal products. Here's a more detailed description of the culinary aspects of IO Godfrey:
Small Plates: IO Godfrey's menu includes a variety of small plates and shareable dishes, perfect for groups or as a starter before the main course. Popular options include the tuna tartare with avocado and wasabi cream, the truffle fries with parmesan and truffle oil, and the house-made meatballs with tomato sauce and whipped ricotta.
Entrees: The restaurant's entree selection features a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Highlights include the roasted half chicken with garlic mashed potatoes and natural jus, the seared salmon with quinoa and asparagus salad, and the vegetarian mushroom risotto with parmesan and truffle oil.
Flatbreads: IO Godfrey also offers a selection of flatbreads, with creative toppings like prosciutto and fig, and wild mushrooms and fontina cheese.
Beverage Program: The restaurant's beverage program includes a diverse selection of wine, beer, and creative cocktails, featuring seasonal ingredients and artisanal spirits. Highlights include the "Blackberry Margarita" made with tequila, blackberry puree, and lime, and the "Oaxacan Old Fashioned" made with mezcal, agave, and bitters.
In addition to the food and drinks, the atmosphere at IO Godfrey is worth mentioning. The rooftop setting provides a stunning backdrop for any meal, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant's decor is contemporary and chic, with sleek furnishings and a vibrant color scheme.
The street address for IO Godfrey at The Godfrey Hotel is 127 W Huron St. As per every restaurant in the list here. reservations up to 30 days in advance are highly recommended. Google maps link.
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The J Parker Restaurant
The J Parker is a rooftop restaurant and bar located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. The restaurant's menu features contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and global flavors. Here's a more detailed description of the culinary aspects of The J Parker:
Appetizers: The restaurant's appetizers include a variety of small plates and shareable dishes. Popular options include the tuna poke with avocado and crispy wontons, the roasted eggplant with whipped feta and pomegranate molasses, and the charred shishito peppers with sea salt and lime.
Entrees: The J Parker's entree selection includes a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Highlights include the duck breast with spiced lentils and harissa yogurt, the grilled swordfish with roasted tomato and eggplant caponata, and the house-made ricotta gnocchi with wild mushrooms and truffle butter.
Desserts: The restaurant's dessert menu features a variety of sweet treats, including a decadent chocolate cake with salted caramel and hazelnuts, and a seasonal fruit crisp with oat crumble and vanilla ice cream.
Beverage Program: The J Parker's beverage program includes an extensive wine list, a selection of local and craft beers, and creative cocktails made with seasonal ingredients. The cocktail menu features options like the "Garden Gimlet" made with gin, basil, and cucumber, and the "Southside" made with rum, mint, and lime.
In addition to the food and drinks, the atmosphere at The J Parker is worth mentioning. The rooftop setting provides a picturesque backdrop for any meal, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant's decor is modern and sleek, with a focus on natural materials like wood and stone.
The street address for The J Parker is 1816 N Clark St. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended. Google maps link.
The Raised Restaurant
Raised is a rooftop restaurant and bar located in the Loop neighborhood of downtown Chicago, offering beautiful views of the city skyline. The restaurant's menu is focused on American cuisine with a creative twist, and features locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Here's a more detailed description of the culinary aspects of Raised:
Appetizers: The restaurant's appetizers include a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing or as a starter before the main course. Popular options include the crispy pork belly with sweet potato puree and apple cider glaze, the chilled seafood tower with oysters, shrimp, and crab, and the grilled octopus with chorizo, chickpea puree, and paprika oil.
Entrees: Raised's entree selection includes a range of options, from hearty meat dishes to vegetarian options. Highlights include the dry-aged ribeye with truffle butter and crispy potatoes, the whole roasted branzino with fennel and orange salad, and the roasted mushroom risotto with parmesan and truffle oil. For vegetarians, there is a beet salad with goat cheese and hazelnuts, and a butternut squash and ricotta ravioli with sage butter.
Desserts: The restaurant's dessert menu features classic options like a flourless chocolate cake with raspberry coulis and vanilla ice cream, as well as more creative dishes like the grilled peaches with honeycomb and lavender ice cream.
Beverage Program: Raised's beverage program is equally impressive, with a focus on craft cocktails and local beers. Their cocktail menu includes creative options like the "Coconut Club" made with rum, coconut cream, and lime, and the "Green Light District" made with gin, green chartreuse, and lime.
In addition to the food and drinks, the atmosphere at Raised is worth mentioning. The rooftop setting provides a picturesque backdrop for any meal, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. The restaurant's decor is modern and chic, with sleek furnishings and contemporary artwork.
The street address for Raised is 1 W Upper Wacker Dr. Reservations are recommended and can be made up to 30 days in advance. Google maps link.
Upstairs at the Gwen
Upstairs at the Gwen is located in Chicago's River North neighborhood at at 521 N Rush St, offering stunning views of the city skyline. The restaurant's menu is a blend of contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Here's a more detailed description of the culinary aspects of Upstairs at the Gwen:
Appetizers: The restaurant's appetizers range from classic options like a charcuterie board with cured meats and artisanal cheeses, to more unique dishes like crispy sweetbreads with pickled onions and chili oil. Another popular choice is the pan-seared foie gras with rhubarb compote and toasted brioche.
Entrees: The main course options at Upstairs at the Gwen are diverse, including options for meat-lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and vegetarians. For meat dishes, the restaurant offers a slow-braised short rib with creamy polenta and roasted root vegetables, or a grilled lamb chop with a pomegranate glaze and mint yogurt sauce. For seafood lovers, the seared scallops with carrot puree and roasted brussels sprouts are a must-try. Vegetarian options include a roasted cauliflower steak with quinoa and kale, or a wild mushroom risotto with parmesan cheese and truffle oil.
Desserts: No meal is complete without something sweet, and the desserts at Upstairs at the Gwen are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Popular options include the chocolate hazelnut cake with raspberry coulis and vanilla gelato, or the warm apple tart with cinnamon ice cream and caramel sauce.
Beverage Program: The restaurant's beverage program is equally impressive, with an extensive wine list featuring both domestic and international options. They also offer a variety of creative cocktails, such as the "Aviation" made with gin, maraschino liqueur, and crème de violette, or the "Maple Old Fashioned" made with maple syrup, bourbon, and orange bitters.
In addition to the food and drinks, the atmosphere of Upstairs at the Gwen is worth mentioning. The rooftop setting provides a beautiful backdrop for any meal, with both indoor and outdoor seating options available. The restaurant's decor is contemporary and elegant, featuring plush seating and warm lighting. Overall, Upstairs at the Gwen is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable culinary experience in Chicago. Google maps link.
