4 Chicago Patios with Personality
1 Piccolo Sogno The Italian restaurant's name translates to little dream and the patio, bedecked with vine-covered trellises and white lights, delivers on that concept. Seasonal ingredients star in rustic dishes like duck atop ground fennel sausage with cauliflower puree and rosemary reduction sauce (plus, pizzas, pastas and risottos). Add in one of the 400 Italian wines on the menu for a romantic dinner in the West Loop. (312) 421-0077; piccolosognorestaurant.com
2 Homestead on the Roof Eating at Homestead is like having dinner on the farm, without actually leaving the city. Vertical gardens, raised beds and lush window boxes surround guests on this four-season patio in Ukrainian Village. Meals showcase the organic fruits, vegetables and herbs grown right there. We loved a roasted chicken with golden raisins and fried artichokes. (773) 645-4949; homesteadontheroof.com
3 The Terrace at Trump Patrons at the posh Trump Hotel's 16th-floor restaurant find big-city vistas paired with small-plate dining and creative cocktails. Generously portioned tuna tartare plates and lobster rolls begin at $25, but the pricey tab includes unsurpassed views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan and some of the city's movers and shakers. (312) 588-8030; trumphotelcollection.com
4 The Orbit Room Kitsch and charm combine in the retro-groovy tiki bar at The Orbit Room. Visitors kick back on a bamboo-fenced patio with umbrella-topped fruity cocktails, craft beers and bar food (nachos, burgers and jack mac 'n' cheese). On some evenings, live rockabilly or lounge music adds to the fun feel. (773) 588-8540; orbitroomchicago.com