There's a certain weather-induced insanity that is overtaking you right about now, a feeling that if you don't get outside right this very instant, things are going to happen. Bad things. So, first, take a deep breath. Second, get to one of these spots stat.
This week, your tacos al pastor go alfresco, as Big Star is planning to debut its new patio—which, frankly, might be the only thing you remember about the old Pontiac Cafe. Now it offers the best view of Wicker Park's parade of hipsters, scenesters, whiskey enthusiasts and taco snobs—which, of course, are the best kind of snobs.
After you've just consumed round after round of nonstop skewered beef, you're going to feel like a little exercise. So march yourself up that long flight of stairs, where the River North churrascaria's Zen-like rooftop awaits. And where strawberry basil martinis substitute for your post-workout smoothie.
Who knows how long this warm spell will last, so pull out the big alfresco guns now: yes, that means the Viagra Triangle. Grab a seat on this patio, which is essentially Gold Coast's front lawn, where a mélange of humanity huddles for a margarita in the sunshine. Basically, it's Ellis Island meets Cancun.
As it gets warmer, what you'll really need is a tall, frosty mug of beer. Or failing that, a tall, frosty keg of beer. While you soak up the Division Street shenanigans, this little Wicker Park pub offers an 80-ounce beer tower with a central ice cylinder that keeps the beer cold, even in the sweltering days of... April.
For good weather, you'll forgo a lot of things. A good burger is not one of them. So while March Madness is in full effect on the inside, you may be excused for a burger break on the patio, where you'll find shaded tables and a good view of almost everything this town has to offer. Or at least one hell of an "L" track.
