III Forks Beefs Up Lakeshore East's Al Fresco Scene

One of the city's premier patios is open for the season, with a new menu to match courtesy of III Forks. With sprawling views of Lakeshore East, an urban Mecca so stunning it will make you want to uproot your life and move into the restaurant immediately, III Forks' prime rooftop patio is destination number one for al fresco supremacy. It's made all the better by the addition of a new menu by executive chef Billy Caruso. 

(III Forks. Steak with a view.)

The rooftop lounge at III Forks, nestled atop Millennium Park by the lake, surrounded by highrises and high living, is a vista like no other. Especially given the coastal-esque vibe of the lounge space. Cabanas, stone fireplaces, heaters, and preeminent views make for an exceptional setting in which to enjoy your steak. There's also an elongated pine and granite bar to bolster your drinking experience, which you'll want to do here considering their ample (and partially new) beverage list. Weather permitting, the rooftop space is open daily from 4:00 p.m. until midnight through the warmer months. Take advantage while you can. 

And while you're up there lounging, enjoy some of Caruso's new dishes created exclusively for the patio. There's lamb meatballs with caramelized fennel demi, seared scallops with housemade bacon jam, tomatoes and Burrata, steak tartare, Texas-style lobster tail with remoulade, and a New England-style lobster roll. The "beef market" portion of the menu boasts a selection of filets and rib-eyes, with optional supplements such as blue cheese and Parmesan. 

To drink, III Forks has rolled out a plethora of new potables. Fresh new cocktails include The Nessa with Absolut mango, Seven Daughters Moscato, peach schnapps, raspberry liqueur, and a splash of lemon-lime soda; the Chicago Gentleman with bourbon, Vermont maple syrup foam, Bitter Truth aromatic bitters, and orange zest; and Bury Me With Smoke, featuring Maraschino liqueur, Chartreuse Yellow, mezcal, No. 3 gin, and lemon juice. 

Prime patio, prime beef, and prime libations. Game, set, match. 

- Matt Kirouac