Where to Go on Your Next JSwipe Date in Chicago…So At Least the Drinks Aren’t Disappointing
by Jaclyn Nagel
Summer in Chicago is all about taking advantage of the weather, which, for some of us, means drinking at as many rooftops, patios, and Riverwalk establishments as possible. Summer is also the best time for dating in the city – we’re more willing to trek out to Logan Square to meet that cute Michigan grad on the edge of your 5-mile JSwipe radius, not to mention that “Summer Friday” work schedules allow for day-dates that end with plenty of time to prepare for Shabbat. So, put on your BBYO Goggles and get swiping – you have a lot of places to explore:
J Parker
Is your JSwipe date just “in town for the weekend”? Take them to the most basic (but loved) rooftop in Lincoln Park – J Parker. You’ll get to work on your tan while enjoying views of the skyline, lake, and the park. And if your date goes well enough, you might even be there long enough to watch the fireworks.
What to drink: ESCAPE – an upgraded pina colada
City Winery at the Riverwalk
If you’re meeting up after work on Friday, head to the City Winery at the Riverwalk. However, be prepared to run into everyone you know, including but not limited to your old camp counselor, your ex-coworker, and that girl from your sorority whose name you can’t remember. Don’t forget to stare with jealousy at all the douchey yachts that putter by.
What to drink: Rosé on tap
Park and Field
Park and Field is pretty much the bar equivalent of the friend who’s down for anything – bottomless brunch? Yup. Dinner? For sure. Happy hour? Even better. The truth of the matter is that you truly can’t go wrong no matter what time of day or what time of year you go (their patio has fireplaces for those chilly summer nights). But nothing is bolder than asking your date to meet for bottomless mimosas, right?
What to order: Bottomless Mimosas (Pro Tip: they also offer bottomless sparkling rosé during brunch, if you’re feeling a little extra)
Parson’s Chicken and Fish
If you’re confident enough to get your hands (and the rest your body) a little messy, you should go to Parson’s Chicken and Fish. There are locations in both Lincoln Park and Logan Square so make sure you clarify which one you plan to meet at. Both locations boast giant patios and are known for their Negroni Slushies; and if you just *happen* to still be nursing your last sunburn, each picnic table is topped with a candy-cane-colored umbrella.
What to drink: Negroni Slushy (but I’m a big fan of the Pisco Control)
Half Acre Co Balmoral Tap Room & Garden
Looking to go off the beaten path? Trek out to Half Acre Co Balmoral Tap Room & Garden in Lincoln Square. Live your best Chicago life on their patio while sipping classic Chicago brews like Daisy Cutter, Pony Pils, or Shores IPA. Happen to be there for brunch on Sunday? Half Acre’s Balmoral Tap Room offers a limited brunch menu.
What to drink: Get a flight and share with your date so you can try them all!
Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink
Are you going out with someone you’d really like to impress? Look no further than Machine: Engineered Dining & Drink. Complete with an in-house florist (who is happy to make a bouquet at your table), a beautiful garden patio, and large-format cocktails made for two, this spot needs to be crossed off your summer JSwipe bucket list ASAP.
What to drink: (The Firebird) – make sure to take a quick pic for Instagram!
Written by Jaclyn Nagel
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