outdoor dining in Chicago
 

Anyone have a good idea for lunch in Chicago that is moderate in price, with outside dining? A view would be great but that might be asking too much. I love eating outdoors in the summer months and the time to do it here in the midwest is so short. Any ideas would be appreciated. We'll be at the Art Institute, but are not at all adverse to taking the bus or taxi to a good place if need be.

I can recommend Mon Ami Gabi, in the Belden Stratford hotel in Lincoln Park, across from the zoo. I had a really lovely time there with my two Chicago kids -- great food, nice place.

Thanks. I will try it on Thursday. What do you think is the best way to get to it from the Art Institute?

Mon Ami Gabi is a chain restaurant. Since Chicago is one of the best restaurant cities in the US, right there with New York and San Francisco, I'm sure you have better choices.

I can't recommend any one specifically because there are so many that have outside dinning. If it was me, I'd go to the deli in the lower level of the Hanckock Building, sit outside and enjoy "people watching". There is usually live entertainment from about 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Can't beat it.

Curious

I think one of the restaurants at the Art Institute offers outside dining. I heard my boss talking about getting there by 11:30 to get a table outside. :)

Our absolute favorite spot is the Park Grill in Millenium Park! ( http://www.parkgrillchicago.com/) You can dine outside with the beautiful skyline of Michigan Avenue right before you. Don't confuse the restaurant with the Park Cafe right out across the walkway. You have to enter the park grill restaurant, and ask for the outdoor tables. A great place to people watch, as well. It is a short walk from the Art Institute. I'd also recommend the Kobe Beef Burger served on a pretzel roll. I've said it many times, that this was absolutely the best burger I have ever eaten, anywhere! Enjoy your visit!