10 fun food spots for summer celebrations

I feel like summer just got here, yet it’s already halfway over! I’m headed out of town soon, and I started thinking about my Chicago restaurant bucket list that I want to finish while it’s still warm out. I pulled together a round up of some pretty amazing, new hot spots. They are all perfect for hosting mini celebrations too - birthday drinks, anniversary date night dinners, engagement parties, and more! Having small celebrations doesn’t have to be a super complicated matter, and if you find the perfect posh spot with great ambiance the rest will easily fall into place. Whatever your celebration style is, any of these restaurants is sure to be the perfect backdrop for your happy occasion. I’ve been to several of these spots, but still have others I want to check off of my bucket list too. If you make it to one of them, let me know what you think on Instagram!

Grab some friends, make a reservation, and head on over to one of these hot spots to celebrate - a new job, a friend in town, new house, visiting Chicago, or maybe you’re just happy it’s the weekend!

Eli’s Ark - Wicker Park

Who doesn’t love an ice cream animal cone? Head over here for your favorite kiddo’s bday celebration treat or to treat that inner kid in you!

Pizzeria Portofino - River North

Dock your boat or walk on up to the newest hot spot on the Chicago Riverwalk. RPM’s latest creation is an upscale riverside pizzeria, featuring three versions of a spritz cocktail that will transport you to the beach. *Make reservations VERY far in advance!

Cabra - West Loop

This Peruvian-inspired rooftop restaurant is SO good. You can be sure that anything Chef Stephanie Izard touches (the woman behind Girl & the Goat) is going to be amazing. It comes complete with a pool and view. Prepare to wait at the bar if you want a table - this is definitely a hot spot!

BiXi Beer - Logan Square

* Hidden Gem Alert * This spot is tucked away inside of a building on a somewhat desolate street (during the daytime), but tap into your adventurous side and go explore! With two levels full of wall murals and greenery, this quaint spot has an outdoor patio and an ambiance to keep you content for hours. I didn’t even mention the food and drinks yet - so I guess you’ll have to go and try those for yourself! (Spoiler: It’s all very good.)

Cafe Cancale - Wicker Park

This light and airy spot is full of French inspired cuisine - including fresh fish, raw bars, and a lot of wine (I did say French after all)! The blue and white touches inside the restaurant will easily remind you of the coast of France, waves lapping against the shore and the sea breeze past your table.

Beatnik on the River - The Loop

Inspired by 50s and 60s Bohemian hipsters, this colorful, pattern-filled, glam and grungy spot is sure to wow your eyes and please your stomach. The food is as good as the view, and the drinks are just as cute!

Rooh - West Loop

Executive Chef, Sujan Sarkar brings upscale Indian flavor to Chicago at Rooh. Food with beautiful color and cocktails with a flare will keep your taste buds on their toes at Rooh. Visit this spot right on Randolph, the bustling main street of west loop!

Flora Fauna - River North

Full of beautiful blue walls and greenery sprinkled throughout, this restaurant has a knack for global flavors and shows off tons of unique combinations on their menu. Their dishes are sure to leave your taste buds wanting more!

The Promontory - Hyde Park

A restaurant, a music venue, a huge patio to soak up the summer sun - this place truly has it all! If you want a one-stop shop, head on over to Hyde Park and try their amazing food and craft cocktails. There are also a bunch of cute shops right on the same street.

Pacific Standard Time - River North

This charming, mod spot feels like a taste of California in the middle of Chicago! I absolutely loved their food every time I’ve visited this restaurant. The big open windows let in a lot of light during brunch hours, and the thin wood fired pizzas are the perfect light meal for a summer dinner.