The Patio at Café Brauer is a seasonal restaurant and bar on the grounds of Lincoln Park Zoo, at 2021 N. Stockton Dr. It sits just south of the main zoo grounds beside the historic Café Brauer building and overlooks the pond at Nature Boardwalk, with views of the restored prairie and the downtown skyline.
What it’s known for
The zoo describes the menu as American fare with cocktails and seasonal drinks, with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The setting is a large part of the draw. Café Brauer was built in 1908 as the South Pond Refectory, designed by Dwight Perkins of Perkins & Hamilton in the Prairie style, with an Arts-and-Crafts Great Hall on the second floor. The City of Chicago designated the refectory and the neighboring 1888 Men’s and Ladies’ Comfort Station (now Carlson Cottage) as Chicago Landmarks on Feb. 5, 2003.
Good to know
- Hours: Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (per the official site, October 2026).
- Season: The zoo lists Sunday, Oct. 25 as the last day of the 2026 season. Check the zoo’s dining page for the 2027 opening date.
- Seating: Both outdoor and indoor seating are available.
- Drinks: Cocktails and seasonal drinks are served.
See more outdoor dining in our guide to Lincoln Park patios and the parks and lakefront guide.
Sources: go.lpzoo.org/food/patio-at-cafe-brauer, webapps1.chicago.gov/landmarksweb/web/landmarkdetails.htm?lanId=1426
