ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ Ribs in Loop
Best Rooftop Restaurants in Loop
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Loop
Best Trendy Restaurants in Loop
Best Late Night Restaurants in Loop
Best Happy Hour in Loop
Master Critic Review
Raised, An Urban Rooftop Bar
8.1
A Loop rooftop built for after-work energy and skyline views, with ribs that lean into a bold, dry-rubbed approach rather than old-school smokehouse tradition. It works best as a shareable-plates stop: order the ribs as the anchor, add one crunchy side, and keep the rest light so the pacing stays smooth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Ribs (Thai-inspired dry rub), Crispy Rice Salad (with the ribs), Signature cocktail round
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A rooftop bar where the ribs are built for sharing with the view.
Who should go: After-work groups who want skyline drinks and bites
When to visit: Weekday happy hour for best table flow
What to order: Pork ribs, crispy rice salad, one signature cocktail
Insider tip: Go early for seating, then order ribs first to pace the table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated valet; nearby garages in the Loop with evening rates, limited street parking after work hours.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy casual — jeans are fine, but rooftop-appropriate outfits fit the vibe best.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours — conversation is easy early, more energetic after sunset.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially on warm nights.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; busiest windows are after 4:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several shareable sides and salads work, but the menu is meat-forward.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of vegetable-based sides can be adapted, but not a full vegan spread.
Gluten-free options: Partial — some items can be ordered gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you want energy and atmosphere. The rooftop views and cocktails create instant momentum, though it’s better for confident conversation than quiet intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but timing matters. Arrive right at opening or during early happy hour for the best chance; prime sunset slots fill quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really. This is a bar-forward rooftop with a social crowd — best suited for adults and after-work groups rather than families.
Best For
Better for: Rooftop energy, skyline views, and shareable ribs paired with cocktails — more social and scenic than traditional BBQ spots.
Skip if: You’re craving deep-smoke, competition-style ribs or a quiet, food-first BBQ experience; classic smokehouses will serve you better.