Offshore Rooftop in Chicago

Offshore Rooftop: the skyline from the lake, at the end of Navy Pier

A giant rooftop above Lake Michigan

Offshore sits atop Festival Hall, at the east end of Navy Pier, on the 3rd floor, reached by elevator from Entrance 2. Across more than 3,300 square meters, the space alternates between a large glass-roofed hall, whose folding windows open in nice weather, and open-air terraces furnished with sofas, high-top tables and fire pits, along with a patch of lawn for games. On one side, your gaze drifts out over the open waters of Lake Michigan; on the other, it takes in the marina, the lakefront park and the line of skyscrapers from Streeterville to the Loop.

A menu inspired by Chicago's neighborhoods

The kitchen, which serves all day, names its dishes after neighborhoods: Taylor Street truffle fries ($18), Wrigley wings ($25), Old Town filet mignon sliders ($28), sushi rolls, poke, a burger ($28) or steak frites ($46), plus a kids' menu. House cocktails run $17 to $20, like the Throwback Chicago with brandy and prosecco or the Sunset in the Lake with tequila and Aperol; mocktails are $14. In spring and summer, brunch is served on weekends, with bottomless mimosas ($30).

The venue also hosts private events for 15 to 750 people and a lineup of events throughout the year.

Practical information

Open year-round. Fall hours: 11am to 9pm on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, and until 10pm on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; last reservation one hour before closing. Online reservations are recommended; a physical ID is required. The Grand “L” station (Red Line) is more than 2 km away: you are better off coming by taxi or rideshare, with drop-off at Festival Hall Entrance 2 via the north dock, or by car, with discounted parking when you book ahead.