ZipPicks Awards
Best Rooftop Restaurants in Lincoln Square
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Lincoln Square
Best Trendy Restaurants in Lincoln Square
Master Critic Review
Gene's Sausage Shop & Delicatessen
8.4
A European market-and-deli that doubles as a no-frills rooftop beer garden in warm weather, where the move is simple: grab a wood-grilled sausage, add a classic side, and post up at the picnic tables. It’s a neighborhood ritual with real payoff—fast, smoky, and built for lingering over draft beer and skyline breezes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wood-grilled bratwurst, Pierogis, German potato salad
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A market rooftop where wood-grilled sausages and beer feel like a summer tradition.
Who should go: Day-drinkers, sausage fans, casual groups
When to visit: Sunny afternoons before peak weekend crowds
What to order: Grilled bratwurst, pierogis, potato salad
Insider tip: Keep the order tight—one sausage plus one side per person moves fastest.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Lincoln Ave and nearby side streets; can be competitive on weekends but manageable during weekdays.
Dress code: Very casual—jeans, sneakers, and summer-weather gear are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy, but it feels social and buzzy during peak times.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak summer afternoons and early evenings
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside of peak lunch hours
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian sausages and classic sides like pierogis and potato salad.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides may work, but the menu is meat-forward.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some sausages and sides may qualify, but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want something relaxed and low-pressure. It’s more about casual conversation and shared food than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Grab food downstairs, head up, and claim an open picnic table.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes during daytime hours. Kids are welcome, but it’s best suited for older children who can handle crowds and outdoor seating.
Best For
Better for: Laid-back rooftop drinking, fast food-service flow, and a true neighborhood beer-garden feel.
Skip if: You want full table service, a polished rooftop lounge, or guaranteed seating at peak times.