About Chicago
Chicago is more than just a major city in the Midwest; it is an exciting destination filled with plenty of things to do and explore. Outdoor kitchen spaces are one of the most popular attractions in the city. From rooftop restaurants to small outdoor patios, The Windy City has something for everyone looking to breathe fresh air while enjoying great food.
Outdoor kitchen spaces offer a unique atmosphere for all types of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a small dinner party or a large gathering, these outdoor areas provide an open-air culinary experience that can’t be replicated elsewhere. They offer visitors breathtaking views of the skyline and delectable meals prepared by talented local chefs.
You can also find many vendors offering unique takes on traditional recipes from around the world, sure to satisfy any palate. So if you’re looking for an exciting way to spend your time in Chicago this summer, check out what these unique outdoor locations offer – you won’t be disappointed!
Outdoor Kitchen Options in Chicago
- Chef
Chicago offers diverse options if you're looking for a professional chef to cook up a storm in your outdoor kitchen. Some chefs specialize in whipping up just about every cuisine, from classic American fare to modern international flavors. Experience the best tastes that Chicago has to offer by hiring one of these experienced local chefs.
- Equipment Rental
Hosting an outdoor kitchen event requires specialized equipment and supplies. The equipment rental companies in Chicago offer commercial-grade grills, smokers, ovens, fryers, and other necessary tools required to run an outdoor kitchen.
- Party Rentals
If you are hosting a significant event at an outdoor kitchen, the party rental companies in Chicago can assist. These businesses supply everything from tents, tables, chairs, lighting and sound systems, linens, and other decorations.
Outdoor Kitchen Vendors in Chicago
- Culinary Abstraction
Culinary Abstraction is a food business established by Zac Franzoni. A personal chef for all events, Zac bridges the gap between his passions: cooking and painting. He made his mark in Chicago as an abstract painter and now brings that same creativity to the kitchen. Culinary Abstraction by Zac is more than just a meal service, it's an experience. From private dinners to luncheons, Zac brings his passion for artistry and creativity to every table.
- DontStand4LessParty
DontStand4LessParty is your one-stop shop for event rentals and decor. They have inventories of rentals covering the basics, including tables and chairs, bounce houses, tents, canopies, and sound systems. They have supplied rental items for photo shoots, backyard barbecues, corporate functions, anniversaries, grand openings, and meetings.
- Luft Balloons
Luft Balloons is an event decor company driven by the need to bring happiness through balloon artistry. Their balloon creations stimulate communication and commemorate cherished moments. The team at Luft Balloons innovates their designs constantly and continually expands their ideology of balloon decor. They also use their creations to raise awareness for important causes and commit to social change.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Kitchen Spaces in Chicago
Having an outdoor kitchen space in Chicago has its advantages and disadvantages. With proper planning and preparation, you can ensure that your event goes off without a hitch! Here are some things to consider before deciding whether or not an outdoor kitchen space is suitable for you:
Advantages
- The city's scenic views create a great backdrop while entertaining guests or cooking.
- Outdoor kitchens offer a sense of community and allow people to enjoy nature while dining.
- Plenty of equipment is available for rent, making it easy to customize the experience to meet your needs.
- With access to professional chefs, you can have an exquisite meal prepared fresh onsite.
Disadvantages
- The wind off Lake Michigan can make it quite cold in winter, limiting the use season.
- To keep food safe from weather conditions, you may need more specialized equipment like a smoker or oven.
- Renting equipment and hiring chefs can be expensive, adding to the overall cost of the event.
- Depending on weather conditions, your outdoor kitchen may need to be moved inside at any moment's notice.
Tips on How to Organize Outdoor Kitchen Events in Chicago
Organizing an Outdoor Kitchen event can be a daunting task. However, it can be a breeze with the right planning and preparation! Here are some tips for successfully organizing an Outdoor Kitchen event:
- Make sure that you have all the necessary supplies: You will need to have cookware, utensils, plates, cups, and other kitchen items on hand to make sure all guests have what they need. Additionally, it would help if you considered bringing extra chairs or seating arrangements to accommodate everyone at the event.
- Create a detailed timeline of when each dish will be served: This is especially important when serving multiple dishes. Planning ahead with each dish's start and end times will ensure that everything runs smoothly during the event.
- Have plenty of food available: Depending on how many people attend your event, you will want to ensure there is enough food to go around. Consider having appetizers and snacks before the main meal to keep everyone satiated while they wait for the main course to be served.
- Serve drinks appropriate for the weather conditions: If it’s a hot day, consider having cold beverages like iced tea or lemonade available; if it’s chilly outside, then mulled cider, or hot chocolate would be great options as well!
- Select music that enhances the atmosphere of the outdoor kitchen experience: Music can set the tone for an outdoor kitchen experience, so choose something upbeat and fun! Your guests will surely enjoy themselves even more with good tunes playing in the background throughout their mealtime experience.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- Goldfinch
Goldfinch Gallery is a renowned contemporary art space in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood. The Gallery has been featured in local and national media for its cutting-edge exhibitions. This innovative and vibrant space is dedicated to showcasing local talent, with past exhibitions featuring the likes of Mari Eastman, Damon Locks, and Sherwin Ovid.
- East Garfield Park
East Garfield Park is a community area on the West Side of Chicago. It covers an area from Pulaski Road to Lake Street and Independence Boulevard to Karlov Avenue, home to around 24,000 people. The site has a rich history and was once home to many manufacturing companies. Today, the neighborhood is undergoing revitalization efforts and it’s becoming an increasingly popular place to live. East Garfield Park offers residents a variety of amenities, including parks, schools, and public transportation. The area is also home to many businesses and cultural attractions, making it a great place to visit, live, and work.
- Kenwood
Kenwood is a neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. Hyde Park borders it to the north, Washington Park to the west, and Woodlawn to the south. The area was initially settled by European immigrants in the 19th century and was subsequently annexed by Chicago in 1889. Today, Kenwood is home to approximately 15,000 residents. The neighborhood is known for its diverse population, architecture, and proximity to Lake Michigan. Kenwood's History Museum is also a popular destination for tourists and locals.