Preview: The End of Summer Is for the Dogs

The kids are going back to school and it's time for some much needed quality time with your best friend. They have been patiently waiting for their time in the sun, sitting across from you, a beverage in a bowl, a treat on a plate, and all eyes on you is the way to end the summer season. From charity events to patio hangs, we have you and your furry friend covered.

Third Annual LH Wooftop Pawty: Dog‑Friendly Rooftop Event at LondonHouse Chicago

LondonHouse Chicago invites everyone to its third annual LH Wooftop Pawty, an exclusive dog‑friendly event, benefiting PAWS Chicago. This alfresco rooftop gathering, devoted to dog lovers and their cherished pets, promises to be an ideal setting to enjoy the beautiful early morning views of Chicago. The event will take place on Saturday, August 23, from 8 am to 10 am. Tickets are priced at $70 and can be purchased here.

Never Miss a Moment in Chicago Culture

Subscribe to Third Coast Review’s weekly highlights for the latest and best in arts and culture around the city. In your inbox every Friday afternoon.

A portion of proceeds will benefit PAWS Chicago, supporting their mission to build No Kill communities by ending the overpopulation of homeless animals and transforming animal welfare. The event partners include: Yappy Hour Dog Booze, Bougie Pups Accessories and Bow Wow Bakery.

Restaurant: ARRIBA

Details: Tucked above Farm Bar in the heart of Ravenswood, ARRIBA Rooftop offers a playful, dog-friendly escape where bold Tex-Mex flavors meet laid-back rooftop vibes. Welcoming pups and their owners alike, the rooftop provides ample space for dogs to relax comfortably alongside their humans while enjoying the open air. Whether guests are sipping Palomas with friends or sharing chips, queso, and guac with their furry companions by their side, ARRIBA is the go-to spot for everything from casual catch-ups to full-on celebrations. The rooftop accommodates up to 100 guests and features crowd-pleasing favorites like shrimp cocktail, tostadas, and Mexican beers, all with stunning skyline views. With its upbeat energy, pet-friendly vibes, and open-air charm, ARRIBA creates a festive atmosphere where every outing is a reason to celebrate, tail wags included.

Restaurant: Ambar

Details: Step into Ambar’s dog-friendly patio in River North, where the warmth of Chicago’s outdoors meets the rich, inviting flavors of the Balkans. Guests and their pups can unwind al fresco while savoring endless small plates featuring grilled meats, artisanal cheeses, fresh salads, and house-baked pitas as part of the Balkan Unlimited Dining Experience. With beverage packages starting at $14.99, visitors can enjoy refreshing Balkan-inspired cocktails, thoughtfully curated wines, and mocktails while soaking up the season’s vibes. Whether it’s a laid-back weekday dinner or a lively weekend brunch, Ambar’s patio provides the ideal spot to dine, sip, and relax with furry friends by your side.

Restaurant: Casa Chi by Chef Richard Sandoval

Details: Bask in the sun on the Mag Mile at Casa Chi by Chef Richard Sandoval, featuring an inviting dog-friendly outdoor patio perfect for a Nikkei retreat. This 30-seat patio welcomes guests and their furry friends to enjoy spring and summer in style, with creative cocktails and flavorful bites inspired by the unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. While lounging al fresco, visitors can indulge in the Pour Decisions Boozy Tea Experience every Sunday from 12–4pm or stop by during the week for a refreshing pick-me-up from 3–11pm—all in a pet-friendly setting that makes every visit feel like a celebration.

Restaurant: The Dearborn 

Details: Right in the heart of the Loop, The Dearborn offers a spacious, dog-friendly patio where city pups and their owners can relax together before or after exploring Millennium Park or catching a show nearby. This vibrant outdoor space provides a welcoming atmosphere for four-legged friends to join in while guests enjoy classic cocktails and inventive small and large plates from Chef Aaron Cuschieri. With bustling Loop views and pet-friendly vibes, The Dearborn’s patio is the perfect urban oasis for dogs and their humans alike.

Restaurant: Roots Handmade Pizza, West Town 

Details: Roots Handmade Pizza, located in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood, offers authentic Quad Cities and Tavern style pizza!  With a lively patio hangout, guests can enjoy crispy mozzarella sticks, fresh salads, Midwestern beers, and, of course, handcrafted pizza made with the freshest ingredients. Join every Sunday from 1-3 pm for the Patio Pups Party! There will be games, treats, contests, photo opportunities for your furry best friend, and even some swag!

Restaurant: Nonnina

Details: This Saturday, July 19th from 12PM–4PM, Nonnina is throwing "Dog Dayz of Summer,” an afternoon on the patio featuring a puppy pool party, puppy treats, live DJ set by Big Lou, $6 Prosecco specials, and custom dog bandanas and balls.

Restaurant: Petterino’s

Details: Enjoy al fresco dining in the sun on Petterino’s extended outdoor patio this spring. While guests select from Italian fare on the patio, pups can partake in their very own meals. Options from the Puppy Menu include crispy pork belly or roasted diced salmon, served with rice, peas, carrots, and corn. And for dessert, guests can order their dog a Pumpkin Puppuccino or Nonna’s Favorite, a blend of Peanut Butter, Banana, Plain Yogurt, and Whipped Cream.

Restaurant: W XYZ Bar located inside The Aloft Mag Mile Hotel

Details: Looking for a pet-friendly patio in Chicago this summer? Head to W XYZ Bar at Aloft Chicago Mag Mile, where pups are welcome and the cocktails are flowing. Chill out on the patio with your four-legged friend and try one of four brand-new summer cocktails—crafted for sunny days, good vibes, and great company. It’s the perfect downtown hangout for you and your furry best friend.

Restaurant: Chicago Burger Company at Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk

Details: Located along the Riverwalk, Chicago Burger Company at Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk is a standout for pet-friendly patio dining in the city. Dogs can snack on specialty menu items like the Barkuterie Board, Pup Cup, or Bark Burger while their humans enjoy classic burgers, frozen cocktails, and handspun shakes. The riverside location offers easy access to scenic walkways, making it an ideal stop during a dog-friendly day out. The patio also hosts pup-centric events throughout the year, including Barktoberfest, a seasonal celebration with local vendors and pet activities, and the Pups on the Patio Masterclass, a hands-on etiquette training for patio-ready pups. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

If you enjoyed this post, please consider supporting Third Coast Review’s arts and culture coverage by making a donation. Choose the amount that works best for you, and know it goes directly to support our writers and contributors.

Caroline Huftalen

Caroline L. Huftalen is a food, arts and culture writer. Her reviews and interviews can be seen on BuskingAtTheSeams.com. A graduate of the University at Buffalo and the Savannah College of Art of Design. Huftalen lives in Chicago with her family and is currently writing a novel.