CheekyChicago

We know it exists. That time of year called “Spring”, when patio furniture blossoms along restaurant-lined streets, and mild breezes tug gently at our cocktail napkins. Though intermittent periods of arctic tundra threaten to destroy our outdoor-drinking way of life, I will persevere. I will list my top three places to drink outdoors in Lincoln Square.

And as a bonus, just in case it pours ice for another week, I’ll throw in my local, cozy, indoor Cinco de Mayo destination. Spring may elude us, but nothing can deny our right to commemorate the 1862 Battle of Puebla in style.

Lincoln Square natives: Be advised this list won’t break any new ground, but perhaps it will remind you to keep faith through this weather. Visitors: Here are the places to hit when you get off the Western stop.

The Daily Bar and Grill

4560 N. Lincoln Ave.

Easily the best outdoor seating in town. The Daily’s location on the flatiron-shaped corner of the Lincoln/Wilson/Oakley intersection leaves the bar with a back yard that spans the block. Instead of packing into sidewalk seating or hiding away in a beer garden, you get the best of both worlds – a pretty street view, from the comfort of a roomy patio lined with flower boxes. Musicians pass on their way to the Old Town School of Folk Music, seventy-five of your closest actor friends walk by and it’s a constant dog and baby show. As for the eating, we’re talking casual bar food (the Daily wrap is my favorite sandwich). From the ample beer list, I’d go with Summit Heffe Weizen on tap as my warm-weather favorite.

42 Degrees N Latitude

4500 N. Lincoln Ave.

Here’s another location advantage: Opposite grassy Welles Park. Sometimes you can catch a Little League game from the mod, white chairs of this extra-wide sidewalk beer garden. If you can’t snag a seat outside, the spacious bar feels patio-like enough with its ceiling-to-floor windows open. I used to live right around the corner from Latitude and loved the friendly service and eclectic crowd that formed here. Neighborhood vibe, real beer list, room to breathe. I’ve not attended a $5 martini Thursday night, but I must report that it exists; my sources assure me the martinis are ample.

Café Selmarie

4729 N. Lincoln Ave.

You simply have not experienced Lincoln Square until you’ve sipped a mimosa outdoors during brunch at Selmarie. And don’t forget the pre-movie glass of wine at sunset. While the former two choices on the list are primarily bars, Selmarie’s all about the gourmet food. And the pastries. And the coffee. And the wine list. And the waiting time for outdoor seating at brunch – make a little effort to get your name in early and then peruse the surrounding shops. Order the warm goat cheese. In (what’s that word again?) warm weather, the fountain area comes alive with folk music and neighborhood parties.

Cinners

4757 N. Talman Ave.

Here’s that cozy, indoor Cinco de Mayo option I promised. Representing the West-of-Western part of the Square as I do, I must add “Cincinnati chili parlor” Cinners to my list of atmosphere destinations. No outdoor oasis here, but red lighting, late-night eating and friendly neighborhood people do the trick. This Tuesday, Cinco de Mayo festivities will include marg specials and a piñata contest.

Viva la Spring!