ZipPicks Awards
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Wicker Park & West Town
Master Critic Review
Forbidden Root
8.2
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Forbidden Root is a botanical-themed brewpub where house beers pair with chef-driven plates on a sidewalk patio and in a polished dining room. Guests treat it as a West Town standby for tasting through floral, herb-driven beers alongside burgers, share plates, and seasonal brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Savory Pancake with kimchi and cheese curds, Brunch Burger, Chorizo Poutine
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: House-brewed botanical beers matched with thoughtful pub fare on a busy patio.
Who should go: Beer fans wanting a brew-forward dinner with friends.
When to visit: Happy hour into early dinner for easier patio seating.
What to order: Savory Pancake, Brunch Burger, Chorizo Poutine with a house beer.
Insider tip: Build a beer flight before committing to full pours to find your style.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Chicago Ave and nearby residential blocks; can be competitive during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and sneakers are common, but you won’t feel out of place dressed up a bit.
Noise level: Moderate to lively indoors; patio tends to be more conversation-friendly depending on traffic and weather.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetarian plates and rotating seasonal options.
Vegan options: Limited but present — expect a small number of thoughtful plant-based dishes.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be prepared gluten-free; ask staff for recommendations and beer alternatives.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the botanical beer lineup and patio create a laid-back but polished vibe that works well for casual first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but expect a wait during prime dinner hours; the bar is a good backup for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes — families are welcome, especially earlier in the evening, though it still feels like an adult-leaning brewpub.
Best For
Better for: Beer-driven dining with creative, botanical brews you won’t find at typical taprooms, plus a more polished food program than most breweries.
Skip if: You want a super-quiet dinner setting or an extensive vegan menu.