By Kristin Boza
September in Chicago is probably one of the best times to dine outdoors: Not too hot, not too cold, and it’s likely mosquito season will be over. Beverly/Morgan Park is home to some welcoming outdoor patios. Here’s a list to help plan your dining out experiences before the cold weather hits.
Ellie’s Cafe, 10701 S. Hale Ave.
Cathy Stacey, chef and owner of Ellie’s Cafe, grows her own herbs and tomatoes in the restaurant’s outdoor seating area. “It makes our diners excited to know that we are committed to fresh, natural ingredients. I think people in Beverly are very aware of the importance of eating properly,” she said. Stacey attributes the popularity of outdoor dining in Chicago to — what else? — the weather. “People do remember the cold! So when they have a chance to be outside and doing anything they love, including eating, they’ll take advantage of it. I see a lot of families choosing to dine outdoors, so the parents aren’t worried about their kids disturbing other people.”
Bridgeport Coffee, 9135 S. Western Ave.
One of the neighborhood’s newest places to enjoy your morning cup of coffee and delectable donut outside, Bridgeport Coffee offers a quiet respite from the noise and traffic. “We are lucky to have access to a grassy backyard with a few picnic tables and a variety of plants,” said Dylan Maysick, manager of the shop. “Customers enjoy having the quiet, peaceful space combined with the convenience of the coffee shop setting.”
Barraco’s, 3047 W. 111th St.
The first of Barraco’s locations in Chicago, the Mount Greenwood location has a beautiful outdoor patio nestled in the back of the building, making for a great private area to enjoy the large variety of pizza and entree options.
Beverly Bakery and Cafe, 10528 S. Western Ave.
Enjoy a home-style breakfast, donut or pastry, or sandwich along with a perfect cup of coffee on the sunny patio area.
Buona Beef, 10633 S. Western Ave.
For a classic Chicago outdoor dining experience, head to Buona Beef. Along with your beef, pizza, burger, salad or sandwich, you can be as loud as you want on this patio area.
Fat Tommy’s, 3031 W. 111th St.
Fat Tommy’s food carts are favorites at area events, but you can also enjoy their food al fresco at their restaurant. The menu offers a lot of options beyond what fans enjoy at the carts. Excellent burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads are among the choices, as well as beer for the grown ups and ice cream for the kids.
Janson’s, 9900 S. Western Ave.
A beloved 1960s-era drive-in, the summer patio at Janson’s gives diners a slice of nostalgia with their to-die-for shakes and cheese fries.
La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant, 3333 W. 111th St.
La Fiesta brings the best of indoor and outdoor dining together in a bright, spacious three-seasons room. Enjoy delicious Mexican food without worrying about the elements or bugs!
Pizzeria Deepo, 1742 W. 99th St.
For superb Chicago-style deep dish pizza, Pizzeria Deepo diners can enjoy the experience of eating in a private outdoor patio. Plus, the restaurant is BYOB!
Porter Cullens Irish Pub and Restaurant, 3541 W. 99th St.
Porter Cullens has a patio area, complete with umbrellas for shade. Offering traditional Irish fare, they also have a kids menu and an extensive drink menu. Porter Cullens was recently awarded with the “Best Irish Pub on the Southside” honor by the Chicago Tribune.
Original Rainbow Cone, 9233 S. Western Ave.
2016 marks 90 years for this Southside staple. Enjoy a Rainbow Cone made up of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer house, pistachio ice creams and orange sherbet with your neighbors on the patio.
