Chicago's Coziest Restaurants for Fireside Dining
Chicago winters can be a brutal time, and such frigid days necessitate the nourishing solace of fireside dining and drinking. Embrace the hearty vibes and fireside delights at one of these cozy Chicago spots.
Broken Shaker: At the risk of spoiling my cozy little secret, there’s a secluded little area tucked alongside a small set of stairs in the back of Cafe Integral, and most people don't seem to know it's there. Along with a fireplace, the little corner also boasts comfy chairs, a small table, and knick knacks indicative of a Latin American cafe. In general, the whole lobby space between Cafe Integral and Broken Shaker is a dark, comfortable cottage-like motif perfect for relaxing with coffee or cocktails.
Hopleaf: When it comes to toasty bar comforts, it doesn't get any better than Hopleaf. Chicago's preeminent Belgian beer bar is an absolute winter essential. Because beer-steamed mussels, crispy aioli-dipped frites, and a fireplace situated in a dining room that looks like a ski lodge is the ideal definition of winter respite.
Scofflaw: A gin-centric bar may not be the first place that comes to mind when craving cozy bars, but Scofflaw merits a visit this season thanks largely to its second room located around the corner from the main bar. Here you'll find a parlor reminiscent of an Alice in Wonderland tea party, complete with lavish, snug couches, chairs, and a roaring fireplace. It's the perfect setting in which to enjoy hot buttered rum, exceptional bar food, and enough gin to make you forget about the temperature outside.
Cindy's: Probably not a viable idea of the temperature is hovering around zero, but one chic spot for outdoor fire pits is Cindy's. Beloved during the warmer months for its impressive vista of Millennium Park from the roof of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel, Cindy's proves its worth as a year-round al fresco destination with outdoor fireplaces and blankets for keeping toasty. It's especially nice when enjoyed with a cocktail or two.
Drumbar: Another stellar rooftop cocktail bar is this Streeterville stunner. The best part about this space is its ambience reminiscent of a Clue-like mansion, complete with an indoor fireplace and outdoor fire pits. Along with some of the most intricate and special craft cocktails in town, it makes for a wholly immersive drinking impressive to help you endure the winter months.
Old Town Social: Housemade charcuterie is especially tasty when eaten in close proximity to a bustling fire. Old Town Social is as close as you can get to fireside cured meats without actually immersing yourself in flames, so be sure to take advantage this season The Old Town stalwart is a go-to year-round for their impressive and unique in-house charcuterie program, complete with housemade hot dogs, but the space is especially alluring now that it's fireplace area is full steam.
Sable Kitchen & Bar: The fireplace at Sable Kitchen & Bar is electric, sure, but it's just as comforting as the real deal. Plus it's nice to have zero chance of accidentally burning alive. The makeshift fireplace provides a comforting backdrop for Sable's bites and sips. Get cozy with one of Sable's impeccable hot cocktails, and pair it with some steak tartare, some lobster rangoon, and some falafel sliders.