Finding standout outdoor dining near you is easy when you know where to look in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. These are some of the best patios around—perfect for locals and visitors alike, no matter how far you’re coming from!

 

Johnnie's Beef patio - Arlington Heights

Restaurants with Outdoor Seating 

Patio Restaurants in Schaumburg 

If you’re looking for one of the best breakfasts in Chicago’s northwest suburbs, you can’t go wrong with Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe.While pancakes, crepes, and other sweet treats are the stars of the menu, don’t overlook their chilaquiles—they’re a sleeper hit. The real highlight, though, is the garden patio. Tucked into a shopping center, it still manages to feel cozy and tucked away, thanks to the shade of the surrounding variety of trees.

Spend a leisurely afternoon at Shaw’s Crab House, where fresh seafood meets timeless charm. Their dedicated patio offers the perfect setting to enjoy standout dishes like king crab legs or the show-stopping “hot shellfish tower.” Don’t skip their oyster bar, which features a rotating selection of oysters from around the world.

Patio Restaurants in Arlington Heights

Is it even a true Chicago experience without an Italian beef sandwich? At Johnnie’s Beef , you can enjoy this local classic on their simple, spacious patio. Be sure to get it with sweet peppers and giardiniera for that perfect mix of heat, tang, and crunch.

The patio at Big Ange's may be small, but the flavors are anything but! Tucked into Arlington Heights, this neighborhood favorite serves brisket, tri-tip, sausage, and pastrami sandwiches with serious BBQ cred. Rain or shine, it’s a welcoming, no-frills spot for true smokehouse fans.

Craving a touch of elegance? Shakou in downtown Arlington Heights offers refined streetside seating ideal for people-watching. During the warmer months, enjoy artfully plated sushi, Asian-inspired entrées, bento boxes, and signature cocktails.

Pro Tip: Arlington Heights Alfresco is the community's open-air, pedestrian friendly, shopping, dining & entertainment experience featuring expanded outdoor seating areas at popular restaurants. Live music Thursday nights!  Running through September, it’s the perfect way to enjoy good food and community spirit, al fresco!

Scenic Patios for Summer Dining in Chicago Northwest

In the summer, Church Street Brewing Company transforms its spacious garden into a laid-back retreat in the heart of Itasca’s industrial corridor. Sip your way through a globe-spanning lineup of craft brews—favorites include the crisp Heavenly Helles and citrusy Campana Mexican-style lager—while snacking on pretzels, pizzas, sandwiches, nachos, and salads. It’s a hidden gem for easygoing afternoons and warm evening hangs.

Dog-Friendly and Live Music Patios

Pollyanna Brewing Company in Roselle hits the trifecta: a welcoming beer garden with roomy picnic tables, live music on select nights, and a dog-friendly vibe that keeps the energy social. Their rotating taps include summery favorites like fruit-infused weisse ales—perfect for sipping in the sunshine and enjoying the Illinois summer.

Not far away, Fox & Turtle at the Itasca Country Club opens its patio to the public all summer long. Their “Music on the Patio” series sets the mood with country, jazz, and soft rock bands while guests enjoy cold brews and classic American bites.

 

Ready to make the most of summer in Chicago Northwest? Use this guide as your starting point, then keep the good times going! Explore even more standout restaurants and check out outdoor activities happening all season long. There’s no shortage of ways to savor the sunshine, one bite (or sip) at a time.