12 Best Outdoor Family Dining Spots

Posted: May 31, 2023

Chicago offers a wide variety of outdoor dining options during the summer months. When it comes to eating outside with kids, you need to find a place that offers not only great food but a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a meal with them. Chicago has plenty of choices, and we've rounded up 12 great options for your whole family to enjoy.


Big Star
1531 N. Damen Ave, Chicago
This Wicker Park restaurant has a spacious outdoor patio where families can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. Kids will love the quesadillas and tacos, while adults can indulge in a margarita.


Parson's Chicken & Fish
2952 W. Armitage Ave, Chicago
This Logan Square restaurant is known for its fried chicken and hush puppies. The patio is spacious and offers ping-pong tables, and little ones can order from the kids' menu.


Crosby's Kitchen
3455 N. Southport Ave, Chicago
Located in Lakeview, Crosby's Kitchen has a beautiful patio that is perfect for families with kids. The menu features comfort food classics like burgers, fried chicken, and mac and cheese.


The Dawson
730 W Grand Ave, Chicago
This River West restaurant features a beautiful patio with plenty of seating for families. The menu includes everything from burgers and sandwiches to seafood and steak. Kids will love their own options like chicken tenders and grilled cheese.


Honey Butter Fried Chicken
3361 N Elston Ave, Chicago
Honey Butter Fried Chicken is obviously known for their fried chicken dishes, and the menu offers additional items like sandwiches, mac n cheese and a variety of delicious sides. Antsy kids can play on the lawn while you enjoy your meal. Don't miss their famous honey butter and corn muffins!


90 Miles Cuban Cafe
2540 W Armitage Ave, Chicago
If your family loves Cuban cuisine - or would like to try it - then 90 Miles Cuban Cafe is the perfect spot for you. The outdoor patio offers plenty of space, and the menu offers kid-friendly dishes like empanadas and Cuban sandwiches.


The Dock at Montrose Beach
200 W. Montrose Harbor Dr, Chicago
This beachside spot is perfect for a day of fun in the sun with the family. The patio overlooks the beach and Lake Michigan, and the menu includes burgers, salads and more.


Little Goat Diner
3325 N. Southport,Chicago
Recently relocated to Lakeview, this restaurant offers an upbeat atmosphere with comfort food favorites like burgers, pancakes, and macaroni and cheese. The patio offers plenty of space to for kids to stretch their legs, and they can choose from a tasty kids' menu.


The Patio at Cafe Brauer
2021 N. Stockton Dr, Chicago
The patio at Cafe Brauer offers beautiful views of the Lincoln Park Zoo and pond. The menu features classic American fare like burgers and salads, plus a kids' menu with options like grilled cheese and chicken fingers.


The Warbler
4535 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago
The Warbler has a great outdoor seating area, and the restaurant serves up American comfort food with a focus on brunch, with a kids' menu available. Kids will love the cinnamon roll pancakes and fried chicken and waffles!


Big Jones
5347 N Clark St, Chicago
Big Jones is a great spot for families looking to enjoy Southern-inspired dishes. The outdoor patio is large and perfect for kids to run around and play, and the menu includes kid-friendly options like buttermilk pancakes and chicken tenders.


Summer House Santa Monica
1954 N Halsted St, Chicago
Summer House Santa Monica offers a beachy atmosphere and a great outdoor dining experience for families. The outdoor patio is decorated with palm trees and string lights, creating a fun and lively ambiance. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and mac and cheese.