SAVOR THE SUMMER: BEST OUTDOOR EATS AND DRINKS NEAR NEW EASTSIDE

SAVOR THE SUMMER: OUTDOOR DINING IN THE NEW EASTSIDE

Living in Chicago's New Eastside means having a variety of dining options right at your doorstep. From the ideal morning coffee spot to casual hangouts with friends, and even charming settings for special dinners, this neighborhood has something for everyone. Here are the best neighborhood options for every occasion.

The Drunken Bean is my regular morning spot. The crew knows everyone by name and always gets my usual just right. It's also a great place to get some work done during the day. Come happy hour, it’s buzzing with people enjoying their wine specials. The small patio fills up quickly, especially when the weather’s nice. It’s casual and a go-to spot for Lakeshore East residents. They even have free pup-cups for the dogs, and my pup Bobby loves meeting his friends there as well.

Gordo's is our neighborhood go-to for Mexican food. They have great chips and salsas and daily happy hour specials. The outdoor patio is dog-friendly and always draws a crowd. The staff is friendly, and they make their margaritas fresh.

Cafe Michelle boasts a fantastic location right on the harbor, giving it a vacation-like vibe. They offer lunch and dinner, plus a walk-up counter with fresh juice, coffee, snacks, and gelato. It’s my favorite evening stop when I'm out walking Bobby. The strawberry cheesecake gelato is my favorite.

TacoRio Cantina on the Riverwalk opened last summer and quickly became a favorite. The tacos are legit, and the margaritas are fantastic. They’re dog-friendly, have great music, and the vibe is always positive. It's perfect whether you're stopping for a quick bite or hanging out with friends. Plus, they're owned by the same guys that started Urban Kayaks, so you know they’ve got the local spirit.

Island Party Hut on the Riverwalk is the perfect spot for a laid-back gathering with friends. Known for its quick bites and very casual atmosphere, it’s a favorite among both locals and tourists. Grab a picnic table with your group and enjoy outdoor games like cornhole, along with three bars to keep the drinks flowing. It's dog-friendly too, with fun music setting the tone for a great time.

Avli on the Park is worth a mention for its beautiful rooftop overlooking Lakeshore East Park. Conveniently located right by the park, it has a great ambiance with treetop views and the city lights in the background.

The Palm at Swissôtel is always a solid dining choice. Whether it's lunch or dinner, this spot has a friendly neighborhood vibe despite being a well-known brand. It's consistently great for a delicious meal. They have a nice back patio that's perfect for a business lunch, a glass of wine, or a special dinner. You might even spot my caricature on the wall alongside other neighborhood regulars and local celebrities.

The Northman Beer & Cider Garden is a Riverwalk gem, bringing the feel of a European beer garden to Chicago. With 16 taps of local and international draft beer and cider, there's always something new to try. Their signature Rose & Pub Ciders are perfect for a lazy Chicago afternoon. It’s a dog-friendly spot with great music and a laid-back vibe. Don't miss their weekly Yappy hour—Bobby lov es it! Grab a drink, find a riverside seat, and enjoy the view.

Rosebud on Randolph has an amazing rooftop with views of Millennium Park. Known for its great Italian menu, Rosebud has been a Chicago staple for years, with several locations around the city. It’s a perfect spot for entertaining out-of-town guests who want to soak in the Chicago vibes. The pasta dishes are always a hit, and the rooftop setting adds a special touch, making it a memorable dining experience for everyone.

Here's a neighborhood tip: some of these places offer great Magellan Rewards discounts. Avli on the Park gives 20% off all takeout orders with the code "Magellan." The Drunken Bean, Gordo's, The Northman, and The Palm offer 10% off, and Island Party Hut has a 15% discount.

As a New Eastside local myself, I know firsthand the dining perks this neighborhood has to offer. From morning coffee to evening drinks, there's a spot for every occasion. So next time you're out and about, give these top dining spots a try and enjoy some good eats right in our community. Cheers to good food and good times in New Eastside!

~Ginger & Bobby

SAVOR THE SUMMER: BEST OUTDOOR EATS AND DRINKS NEAR NEW EASTSIDE

SAVOR THE SUMMER: BEST OUTDOOR EATS AND DRINKS NEAR NEW EASTSIDE

SAVOR THE SUMMER: OUTDOOR DINING IN THE NEW EASTSIDE

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