As summer beckons and circumstances dictate, there will be more opportunities than ever to dine outdoors this year.
Chicago, to name one city, is famous for its alfresco dining scene. Locals embrace the opportunity to put what can be very long winters and very short springs behind them, and soak in some sun while savoring some of the world’s finest cooking.
Virtually any type of ethnic food can be found in the Windy City. Chicago also is home to gourmet French and Italian restaurants, as well as some of the country’s finest steakhouses.
Numerous other cities also have become foodie havens.
No ambience is sacrificed with outdoor dining; it’s just a different type of ambience. For instance, in a city like Chicago, where the wind can whip up with not even a moment’s notice, stemless wine glasses are suggested.
Alfresco dining also provides a fabulous opportunity for people watching. Some of our favorite vacation memories involve sitting in a history-steeped square with a glass of locally made wine accompanied by farm-to-plate appetizers.
Some cities charge fees to restaurants to set up outdoor tables during the summer months, but many are suspending those fees this year because restaurants have been so hard hit.
With all of that in mind, we plan to support our local restaurants as much as possible as they reopen. We’re going to order appetizers, main courses and desserts, along with wine — and whatever we can’t eat, we’ll take home to enjoy the next day with a glass of Vinesse-curated wine.
Getting back to normal requires a positive mindset, and alfresco dining is a great way to get back in the swing of things.
