We're outta here!

Get set for alfresco dining at these suburban destinations

By Samantha Nelson and Lisa Arnett

April 22, 2008

We're outta here!
Maijean's sidewalk patio
Is it just us, or has this spring been especially challenging in the weather department? We’ve been surprised by snow in April and teased by springy 65-degree days flanked by rainstorms. After weeks of all-over-the-place weather, this week’s balmy temps seem that much sweeter, and—though we hardly dare say it, lest the weather gods smite us with a cold snap—alfresco dining season is finally here. Grab your shades and take it to the streets at these suburban sidewalk cafes and patios.

Under my umbrella
Starry lights adorn the table-top umbrellas lining the small sidewalk cafe at French bistro Maijean. You can snag one of 20 outdoor seats at this classy Clarendon Hills spot any day Mother Nature is cooperating.
Snack on: Scallops dusted with the zingy zest of lemons, oranges and limes ($10) and rabbit in a white-wine jus with creamy herb polenta ($28). Good news on the dessert front: The oft-requested champagne-poached peaches with anise angel-food cake and lemongrass ice cream ($8) returns to the menu.
Sip on: A glass of sweet and sparkling Muscato di Asti ($7.50)

Outside in
Soaking in some fresh air is a welcome change after a long winter hibernation, but the slightest drizzle of rain can put a nix on your alfresco noshing. Luckily, Koi in Evanston keeps you protected from the elements, flipping out its front wall of floor-to-ceiling windows when the temperature hits 75 degrees.
Snack on: The tropical seafood maki, featuring salmon and sea bass rolled with mango ($6.95).
Sip on: The Asian mojito ($8) adds a kick of fresh ginger to the conventional sipper of lime juice, crushed mint and rum.

Party on the patio
Weather permitting, you can chill on the sprawling patio at Carlucci in Downers Grove starting in May, but the real kick-off comes June 13 with an annual party featuring live music, free food and discounted drinks served up at cocktail and martini stations. If you can’t make the bash, the outdoor dining area—equipped with it’s own bar, a torch-lit garden and fountain—makes for relaxing hang-out any day.
Snack on: The insalate caprese ($7.95) with fresh mozzarella, basil and tomatoes drizzled with olive oil.
Sip on: The Blue Eyes-Tini ($9), made with Stoli Blueberi and blue curacao splashed with lemonade.

Lounge lazers
Palos Heights bar and restaurant Trio already has umbrella-topped tables set up outside, but the owners are looking to amp up the alfresco atmosphere. Keep an eye out for couches to lounge on during lazy summer evenings.
Snack on: Surf and turf sliders ($11), which pair one crab cake with a three-ounce filet.
Sip on: The sweet and tropical Bahama Mama martini, made with pineapple juice, Malibu and Midori. 

Forget Paris
We usually reserve dinners at Carlos’ Restaurant in Highland Park for a spendy special occasion, but their 16-seat bistro-style alfresco seating just might tempt us to stop in on an uneventful weeknight. Right now, they’re overhauling the restaurant’s exterior with dark red brick and shade-casting awnings, so construction and weather permitting, the outdoor cafe will debut in mid-May, offering a separate, smaller menu.
Snack on: Since Carlos’ menu tends to change with the seasons, warm weather dishes are still in the works; however, you might spy enticing options such as grilled prawns with a peppercorn reduction or grilled rib eye steak sauced with cabernet ($20-$29).
Sip on: Outdoor imbibing here is all about wine flights; choose from trios showing off champagne and sweet wines from America, France, Australia and South America ($9-$16).

Exclusive view
If you’ve been waiting patiently for the chance to sip a few drinks from the second-floor patio at the new John Barleycorn in Schaumburg, you’re, well, flat out of luck. Sporting stylin’ hardwood floors, this oversized balcony opens in mid-May, but is reserved for private parties only. If you’ve got a group of friends and a reason to celebrate, then you’re in luck.
Snack on: Party deals range from $25 to $75 a head for groups of 30 to 50. At the $25 mark, you can feed your crew with a three-course buffet with options such as house salad, hand-battered Alaskan halibut and cheesecake.
Sip on: Packaged drink deals and summer drink specials are still in the works. For now, stick to the Barleycorn tradition with draft beer from Miller to Guinness to Blue Moon ($4-$5).

Sangria-la
Witnessing the wine-making process at Cooper’s Hawk winery restaurant in Orland Park will only make you more thirsty for something to sip on. With just eight small tables, the patio area may not be as sprawling at the rest of the restaurant, but a new Wheeling location planned to premiere in July will expand this local biz’s outdoor dining scene.
Snack on: Customizable lettuce wraps ($11) with minced vegetables, soy-glazed chicken and peanut-cashew sauce.
Sip on: Sangria, no question. Go with classic red or white, or fruity versions flavored with peach, raspberry or passionfruit ($6.75 a glass; $20 pitcher).

>>Looking for more top alfresco spots in the 'burbs? Click here for more picks.

Samantha Nelson is a metromix special contributor. Lisa Arnett is the metromix suburbs and shopping producer. lmarnett@tribune.com.

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