With Summer officially halfway over, now is the time to get outside and take advantage of our beautiful Chicago evenings. Last week I had friends visiting from LA, and we embarked on a power-tour of some of Chicago’s prime spots for outdoor hangs.
Stop #1: Parson’s Chicken and Fish
Probably my favorite Chicago patio! With tables, dogs and red and white umbrellas galore, when the weather is good, Parson’s is the communal watering hole of the Logan Square neighborhood. Their Nashville-style Hot Chicken is some of the best in town. Be sure not to miss their famous alcoholic slushie drinks like the Negroni and, my favorite, the Mr. Coconut, an icy pour of creamy coconut and a lot of booze.
Stop #2: Cindy’s at the top of the Chicago Athletic Association
After a few hours swooning through the John Singer Sargent exhibit at the Art Institute of Chicago, we were off to find a drink with a view at Cindy’s. Take the express elevator to the the top of the ever-busy Chicago Athletic Association and out onto the roof for unobstructed views of the swarms of tourists you’ve left behind and the sparkling lakefront. Drinks are a little on the weak side, but that’s okay because you’ll want to stay awhile, have a few and enjoy the view!
Stop #3: Park & Field
Back to Logan Square for the Sportsman’s counterpart to Parson’s, Park and Field. Park and Field boasts an “old-timey” athletics theme, fire-pits, dogs and blue and white umbrellas on an expansive patio complete with bocce courts, a vintage trailer serving drinks and a weekend Boozy Brunch. Stay ‘til the sun goes down and the blankets come out along with all the fixin’s for S’mores around the roaring fires.
Stop #4: My House
Now, I’m sorry that all of you can’t come over, but I throw a killer party and love taking advantage of summer nights in the backyard. A big appetizer spread with lots of meats, fruits, nibbles and my famous Pimento Cheese all washed down with the drink of this summer, the Aperol Spritz (bitter orange Aperol liquor mixed with bubbly Prosecco and a splash of soda)! For the main course, a massive chicken and shrimp Paella paired with lots of deeply fruity Spanish Rose make for the perfect outdoor celebration! We were all too stuffed for dessert, but a crisp Pavlova topped with ripe summer fruit and mounds of whipped cream is always my go to.
Stop #5: The Chopping Block
Don’t let summer pass you by. Stop into either location of The Chopping Block for great deals on summer wine. Buy two, get the third 20% off which means you can stock up on all the drinks for your own summer party.
If you don’t feel like hosting, pop into one of our classes to enjoy these summery eats! All of our outdoor hands-on grilling classes are held on our beautiful patio at Lincoln Square.
At Lincoln Square:
In the Heat of the Night Friday, August 17th
Beer Garden Grill Friday, August 24th
Late Summer Dinner Party Friday, September 7th
At The Merchandise Mart:
Seafood 101: Summer Edition Monday, August 20th
Chicken 101: Summer Menu Wednesday, August 29th
Summery Eats and Drinks Friday September 7th
