One thing Chicagoans are looking forward to this winter is igloo dining. Heated patios and outdoor seating keep the atmosphere alive during the weather changes. Despite the nature of the windy city, restaurants are transforming the dining experience. They achieve this with creative decor and lights that make you want to take your phone out for pictures.
Once you visit these festive restaurants, you'll understand why people now consider igloo dining one of their favorite winter things to do in Chicago. Guests describe their experience as intimate and comfortable, and most igloos can seat 4-8 people. Have you tried glasshouses or greenhouses? Some restaurants are trying new outdoor settings that large parties and others love. Check out our top list of Igloo dining in Chicago.
The widespread craze about igloo dining intrigued me, and I wanted to find out which restaurants will have this experience in 2023. Most places have added heaters to further the comfort of guests. The enthusiasm behind this type of dining has led more restaurants to try it themselves. I have called the list of places below and confirmed igloo dining for 2023.
LondonHouse recently opened its Rudolph's Rooftop Igloo experience, and it's already a hit. The 22nd-level terrace features amazing views, holiday-themed decorations, and festive food/drinks. You will need to make a reservation via email; find the information here. The website also says a $500 minimum is required. Igloos will have heaters and blankets to make guests more comfortable. The spaces can accommodate up to 6 people, which makes it perfect for families.
Location: 85 E Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL
Phone: 312-357-1200
Godfrey Hotel continues to be a popular place for visitors in Chicago to stay. Their astonishing rooftop offers awesome views of the surrounding city. This year, they are revamping their Winter Wonderland and turning their atmosphere into a magical winter palace. The restaurant features big igloos that can seat up to 10 guests. Step into the fun and make a reservation here.
Location: 127 West Huron St, Chicago, IL
Phone: 312-649-2000
Located in the heart of Andersonville, Fiya has been capturing attention with its igloo dining. The restaurant features a unique menu that stems from Israeli cuisine. Fiya offers a selection of creative cocktails, and the space is expanding this year. This winter, there will be at least four igloos on the patio serving the full menu.
Location: 5419 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL
Phone: 773-543-7074
Joy District is a River North favorite among the young crowd. We're excited to hear that they will have an outdoor dining setting available for guests. The restaurant does a phenomenal job of transforming a cold night into an unforgettable experience. These igloos are heated and decorated with vibrant colors and lights.
Location: 112 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL
Phone: 312-906-7836
Kennedy Rooftop features a spacious outdoor dining atmosphere. Accompanied with boozy igloo lounges, this place is a must-visit for food tourists. Enjoy skyline views of the John Hancock building while drinking holiday cocktails. Kennedy Rooftop restaurant offers various packages, including bottle service. Other things included are one shareable and one dessert. You can reserve an igloo and view more details here.
Location: 1551 W North Ave, Chicago, IL
Phone: 773-270-6770
Take a culinary trip to Barcocina Lakeview, where you can indulge in Mexican fare. They have beautiful igloos available for reservation by email. Gaze at the trendy designs and enjoy top-notch food on their cozy patio. Barcocina is perfect for large groups of friends looking to sit on couches with drinks. Give the restaurant a call for more information regarding igloo reservations.
Location: 2901 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL
Phone: 773-687-9949
Glasshouses and greenhouses are being repurposed into a chic dining setup. Offering an intimate experience, one can relate these contramptions with igloo dining, but instead of domes, they are triangular house-like luxury tents. I'm a fan of glasshouses and greenhouses because you can still enjoy outdoor dining in Chicago during the winter months. I recommend trying the following restaurants for igloo alternative dining.
The Willow Room is adored by locals for its rustic-industrial style bar. The restaurant is celebrating this winter with heated outdoor dining inside greenhouses. Enhance your dinner with the well-managed greenhouse and taste their food and drinks. The Willow Room has an extensive wine list popular among food tourists.
Location: 1800 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL
Phone: 312-982-2151
Whiskey Business is home to a Chicago-favorite roof deck opening for winter 2023. Play games with friends and drink fun holiday liquors at this festive restaurant. Whisky Business features a large rooftop that spans over 3,000 square feet. The space is accompanied by heaters so guests can enjoy their meals in comfort.
Location: 1367 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL
Phone: 773-698-7362
Just Eat Up specializes in reviewing restaurants in the busy city of Chicago. If you're interested in finding more trendy places to eat, take a look at our neighborhood dining guide. You'll be able to find new restaurants, lunch specials, and more. Enjoy our reviews and make reservations to ensure a positive eating experience in Chicago.
