After messaging management from a not so great experience the first time, they completely redeemed themselves and made sure it was awesome the second time. They treated us like complete VIPs and it was so much fun and greatly appreciated. Good music, food, drinks, and great views of the city Definitely will be going back read more

First time here and was not a fan. It was open seating so that was great. Party of 5 for 9:30. Our waitress-long hair, glasses did not introduce herself and just asked what we wanted to drink. I was excited to try the truffle fries so thought I would Order after we got our drinks. She comes back and leaves the drinks. Doesn't ask if we need or want anything else. Cool, no biggie. She comes back after 10:20 and we ask if we can order food and said "kitchen is closed, well at 10" So she didn't bother asking when we FIRST sat down if we care to order anything or mention last call for kitchen? She had a didn't care attitude and when we ordered our second round, she just dropped off the tab. Lemon drop martini was decent, way too watery. Amaretto stone sour was good, but wish it had sugar or salt on the rim. Total of 8 drinks= $130. We didn't tip on our card as we like giving cash (tax free) as she walked away with the check, she made a face and commented about how we did not tip to all her co-workers. Horrible attitude and service to think you even deserve a tip. Shame on her. And yes, we still tipped her and I hope this reminds her to be nice to everyone REGARDLESS of what gratuity they leave. Or if they decide to even give her anything. Overall, spot is cozy and somewhat loud. Probably a much nicer view during the day! read more

I met a friend who was visiting from out of the country (but who had previously lived in Chicago) who suggested this place because he missed the view of Chicago at night. We went on a Thursday night for appetizers and drinks, and despite the fact that it was an unusually frigid November night, the atmosphere inside the enclosed rooftop was extremely warm, cozy, and inviting. Not sure about the weekends, but on this Thursday (and maybe because of the cold temperatures outside), it was not too crowded and we were able to get a spot on one of the banquets with a view facing south towards downtown (and also with a view of the lake). One of the waitstaff who served us explained that in summer, that section of the rooftop is opened (retractable roof and all) so it's a real all season rooftop and yes, the views were amazing. We experienced great, friendly service. We had wine, brussel sprouts and truffle fries, all of which were great. I would definitely count this on my list of places for people visiting who want a glimpse of the Chicago skyline and lake. read more

All food and drinks were great. My favorite are the amazing truffle fries! My favorite drink is the mojito. Views were amazing and staff was super nice. Will come back again soon. read more

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The service here was pretty smooth. A bit busy but overall smooth. I came to enjoy a drink of wine so I didn't have the food experience but the service was good. I want to come and try the food next time, but as far as atmosphere everything was beautiful. The dining area and the rooftop I highly recommended if you have a date night to come here. It was very relaxing and the music was also great. read more

A friend suggested this place, and i really enjoyed myself here. I didn't get the opportunity to try the food because I came after last call, however the drinks are amazing. Do be warned, the drinks are served out of clear plastic flutes and cups due to the danger of having glass on a roof top. However, the view is amazing and service is great. I will be suggesting this place to friends and I also plan to return here in the future. read more

BOKA Restaurant Group (BRG) wows me yet AGAIN. I am so glad that I finally got around to visiting The J Parker. It had been on my radar ever since I read an article about the best rooftops with views in the city. When I found out that the owning/managing company responsible for the operations of TJP was BRG, I knew that I would probably end up loving the place. I am rarely ever in Lincoln Park (something that honestly has to change) so when I took a stroll through the zoo, naturally It was time for a splash once the zoo closed. The Lincoln Hotel (where TJP is situated) is just a short walk away from the zoo. I'd honestly just make a plan to visit the bar if/ when you opt to visit the zoo. It's the perfect way to end an afternoon/early evening. We were carded before getting onto the elevators which made it easier when offering 2 drinks upstairs. When exiting the elevator the first thing you immediately see is an unobstructed view of Lake Michigan - In all it's breathtaking and refreshing glory. The second thing I noticed was the FIRE playlist. The DJ was playing all of the BOPS from the 70s and 80s (MJ, Prince, Stevie, Aretha, Barry White). I'm sure they have their fair share of modern hits, but I was thoroughly pleased with the true iconic tunes of yesteryear selected. Although the drinks are relatively moderate in pricing, they are quite strong. Since gin is my alcohol of choice, I ordered the Pacific Coast Highway. What an A+MAZING drink. It was tart, sweet, and SPICY. I need to learn how to make it. Clientele wise, the crowd at The J Parker is very eclectic which I adored! It was a melting pot of ethnicities and orientations and ages. Honestly, this is what makes Chicago so darned amazing. Everyone was vibing and having a good time. Chicago has finally "exhaled!" read more

The J Parker - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Went here for rooftop cocktails yesterday. I NEVER complain, even if something makes me mad but this really pissed me off. I ordered a $13 cocktail. It had SO MUCH ice in it and was in such a small glass that I took two sips and was done with it. I complained to my server and she said "well since it's empty, there's nothing I can do." Well, that's exactly my point. It's empty after 2 sips. A good server would've offered to comp it or give me another one on the house. Come here to take a picture and leave. Drinks are so overpriced for what you get and the staff is rude. read more

The views are incredible, just completely stunning. You will be in awe, even if you've seen good views before. The drinks are pretty good - the price is high but hardly shocking. They seem to have interesting cocktails, though I had prosecco :) I'd deduct a star because, even at the off-peak time when we went, there seemed to be a mildly douchey attitude among staff, e.g. unnecessary power trips. The hostess was VERY quick to tell people (not us - we had our drinks and were already chilling by the windows) that they should move against the wall. Having any sort of human crush should be avoided, of course, but this was hardly anything of the sort. The people waiting (like 5 of them at most!) were basically barked at, and I was not a fan of that. One must imagine how agitated its staff gets when it really fills up later! read more

Such a great view of the city! Casual with a nice drink menu and some good midday eats. The fried chicken sandwich is great. Drinks are pricey but comparable to most other places in the city. The atmosphere is cool and relaxed and makes for a fun afternoon or evening spot to have some drinks. read more

The J Parker - Awesome fried chicken sandwich with mustard aioli, pickled onions, and frisée! - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Hostess directed me to a table in the bar area. I sat in the mostly empty bar, at my table, for about 20 minutes. At least 4 different servers walked past my table. None of them seemed busy. But none of them even spoke to me. So I left. Plenty of other bars in Chicago. read more

I've been here a few times and it was hoppinnnnn! The view is absolutely incredible! I'm fairly new to the city but I believe it's one of the few restaurant/bars in Lincoln park with a rooftop. At least an amazing one. They had a dj and plenty of beautiful people the couple times I went. Go at sunset time to see downtown to the south, lake straight ahead and the park north in both sunlight and under the night sky. Not necessary to get a table, you can stand. But it's always nice to sit down and enjoy. read more

A friend had their wedding at The J Parker and it was a wonderful event. Where else would you start with the J Parker than with the view. I mean, it's just about the best damn view of Lincoln Park that you are going to get anywhere. And it really sets the tone for the rest of the place: unsuspectingly spectacular. Sadly it was raining on the day of the wedding but that did not dampen (pun!) the mood one bit, everyone was enjoying the delicious cocktails at the bar and the very tasty food that was on hand. The space was small, but so was the wedding so it really helped keep things intimate. The glass ceiling also provided perfect lighting (it was an afternoon wedding) without any of the rain. In fact, the only downside I can think of (and this is a fact for many a rooftop bar) is the access... the single elevator can cause delays. However, at least with this party, no one wanted to leave so it really was a non-issue for us! TJP did a wonderful job hosting our friend's wedding and I cannot wait to come back for a cocktail on a regular night... maybe even a bite to eat too. read more

You're really coming here for the view. The J Parker is the rooftop bar of the Hotel Lincoln. It's a gorgeous view of the water in Lincoln Park area. My friend & I stopped here for a quick drink on a Saturday afternoon. It was rather busy, but we were able to order some drinks and find a place to sit in a timely manner. I enjoyed a glass of sweet rose, while he drank a local beer. The prices are pretty standard for Chicago. Especially for somewhere with a nice atmosphere like this. There are also two bars, so if one seems too crowded, check out the other one. This is just something you have to see and experience if you're ever in Chicago. read more

We arrived and we're not greeted for over 20 minutes by any server. My husband went to the bar and the bartender said the server would be right over. The server then said "I don't want to serve them," in front of my husband. The bartender sent another server over. They were out of all beer except Miller Lite. The only thing decent about this place was the view. We felt very disrespected for no reason. Do not go here. read more

Super dope spot the burger was amazing! I enjoyed the views and the music they played. Definitely super cool drinks and excellent spot for Sunday brunch read more

Went here last night for our first night out. Let me say this: the atmosphere and views are what drive the cost. With that in mind, the drinks never fell short of delicious and fun. They are inventive and all have some interesting twists. First let me start with the host when you walk in to the hotel it is connected to. I didn't catch his name, but he was very inviting and just appeared to always be happy. Once upstairs, our server, Kaitlyn, was wonderful all around and knowledgeable about the drink list which sometimes is a hit or miss other places. Now the food. Oh the food. We split the four cheese grilled cheese and the chicken caprese sandwich. The grilled cheese was awesome and came with a spicy marinara sauce on the side which complimented the buttery crispy bread and all the cheese so well that my wife and I housed it in seconds. Would definitely order that again. The chicken caprese sandwich was good as well. The flavor was there, but it got a little messy with the juice of the chicken and the pesto aioli dripping out. But it was delicious nonetheless. The fries were subpar as they may have "died" waiting to come to us. They were soggy and limp when they arrived, but were still seasoned nicely. I'm giving this place 4 stars as the drinks were wonderful, the atmosphere is awesome, but the food prices and what you get are okay. It is downtown Chicago and I get that, but I'd recommend sticking to the appetizers and drinks for this spot. read more

The J Parker - Quick photo of the lake - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Go late in evening for the view... EAT before u go!!!!! Food is subpar!!! And that's putting it politely read more

The J Parker - Beyond dead and no seasoning burger with cold soggy tasteless fries.. I guess they feel the view makes you forget what your eating? - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Very nice view of the park, the lake, and the city. We got lucky and got to sit at an area at the corner with a surround view (before we had to move/leave because that section was reserved). The 3 stars are because the drinks and the food were just ok. The fries were not very crispy and the dipping sauce was pretty standard. I forget what I had as a cocktail but I wasn't too impressed by it. I ended up having my second drink a beer from a can. Overall it's worth it to go if you're looking for a nice view but the food and drinks themselves are nothing to write home about. read more

The J Parker was amazing. I went on a summer night...the view and the Chicago breeze could have got the job done alone. I had multiple drinks, tried scotch, had amazing wings and truffle fries. It was a great vibe for a little summer night out and a quick bite to eat. read more

If I could give this place a zero star review I could. Had a reservation at 8:30 and was handed food menus. After 15 minutes I went up to the bar and asked if we could get a server, one of the servers said she would be right over. We never saw her again. 15 minutes later I went up and asked to speak to the manager. He apologized and offered us a free round of drinks. When he came over with said drinks we asked to place a food order and he said the kitchen was closed 30 minutes ago. However 30 minutes prior we had received the food menus (???) which were SEPARATE from the drink menus and no one informed us of the kitchen closing. We ended up having to order take out and my friend was visiting from out of town and it was embarrassing. At night there is also no lighting and you can barely see on the rooftop. I do not recommend this restaurant. read more

Amazingly delicious food and beautiful view highly recommended. Also price was not bad.

I appreciate what they have done to accommodate customers. I was reminiscing the good old days when I used to be a long term tenant of the Hotel in the mid 80s. NOSTALGIC! From the time we entered the premises, we were treated with atmost Courtesy and Special Treatment. Shout Out to ANNA ( with a double "N") She was OUTSTANDING!!!! I now know where to take Special People visiting the Windy City!!! Love It!!!!! read more

I'm sad that it took me so long to finally pay a visit here for drinks. Two friends and I came early on a Saturday night (around 7pm), for a visit. When you come to this bar, you enter through the lobby of Hotel Lincoln and take the elevator up to the rooftop after the host checks your ID. The J Parker was pretty crowded during the two hours we were there, but it wasn't so bad that we couldn't easily move around or get a drink in a reasonable amount of time. Unlike some rooftop bars that have strict dress codes, you can easily get away with wearing jeans to the J Parker without a problem. Most people were dressed business casual. I like that the atmosphere is both sleek and classy, but isn't super pretentious. Both cocktails I had were on the strong side, and I nursed them slowly. I started off with the Espinosa cocktail, which is a mezcal based drink with a touch of smokiness to it. My second drink was an Manhattan. Both cocktails were delicious, and my friends said positive things about the long islands that they ordered ($15). The prices for most cocktails ($13) seemed in line with most higher end bars in Chicago, so there wasn't any surprises. I would totally come back again and even give their food a try next time. read more

We held an event at the J.Parker this weekend and everything was great. The service was top notch... Kelly and Jackie seemed to be reading our minds and on their way over right as we needed them. Beautiful views of the city as well. read more

One of the best views in Chicago, great drinks, tapas, and burger. What more could you ask for? Great service too! read more

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The view is great. I would recommend going during the day to get the most out of the scenery. Unfortunately, both cocktails I tried were really not good at all especially for the price. If you want to enjoy the view, you can get a better cocktail from the bar on the first floor and then take it up to the roof. read more

First off spectacular views. You can see a beach, part of the zoo and Lincoln Park;part of it from rooftop. In addition to part of the loop. I ordered a boulevardier. It was OK. What I'm saying is if you're in the area and going to zoo or conservatory and get hungry or thirsty come patronize this business. If I wasn't in the area I wouldn't come to Lincoln Park just for the J. Parker. read more

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I absolutely hate that I am having to do this... the J Parker was definitely an experience, but not a good one. I have heard so many great things about this place so me and my man decided to check it out. we had 7pm reservations for the rooftop. The rooftop is in hotel lincoln which was a cute vibe, we took the elevator up and immediately things went downhill. the host was MIA and we stood wondering what was going on for 30 minutes. we asked several people and they said "see the host!" - but there was no host??? after finally getting seated we went to order but this place doesn't have a cocktail menu? so we just settled for a basic drink and a glass of wine. our server was super friendly but did not see her again for two hours after the first encounter. I had to order drinks for us at the bar and they made me use a different card because they took out card for the tab and "couldn't charge it." We saw our server help the table next to us 3 times and tried flagging her but it didn't work. We also saw her having to stack chairs in another section.. are there not other employees for this? We had planned on ordering food and having quite a few drinks but it turned into two glasses of red wine for 20$ each and a disappointing night. The views were spectacular but not worth the price or service. ): read more

What happened! Used to be a great spot to stop for a drink. Plastic mini martini glasses for $15. !!!!! Terrible Will not be back. read more

My girls and I went to the roof top for after brunch cocktails. We were greeted by Ibrahim aka Abe who got us hooked up with such fun and tasty cocktails. Serving us with a laugh at the same time! Also, side note: forgot my sunglasses and he went and searched the lost and found for some shades-thanks boo!! MVP goes to Will, who was making sure we were hydrated and our table was clean of cocktail glasses. Thank you J Parker!! read more

We had high expectations for this place due to recommendations from friends and the long line there was to get in. But as soon as we got in, we were seated at a table in a dark corner by the bathroom even though we were the first ones there. When we asked to switch to one of the better tables that was open with a better view, the hostess was extremely rude and said she couldn't move us even though we had barely sat down and hadn't even been served water. The drinks were sub-par, but we were just excited for the experience that we did not get. I'd say that if you aren't able to get sat in the atrium or outside, it's not worth going here. read more

I expected a little better from this place but it's a great rooftop regardless. It's fun to come with friends and late night on a Friday or Sat. The main deck is a bit small with two main lounge seatings and a fire pit which is always nice. The view is bad.. really bad. No view of any part of the skyline is shown which was disappointing. The bar is tiny too so you have to claw your way in. I recommed this place for people looking for a more low-key, quiet vibe type night at the rooftop. read more

The J Parker - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

To say that this is a "gracious and accommodating" business, is frankly a joke. While we understand how COVID can cause delays, cancelations, and other unexpected outcomes for events, the event coordinators and management of this venue need to find new jobs. I find it amusing how they find it acceptable to move a wedding date/ time just because "you have a corporate reservation with the Air and water show". The Chicago Air and Water show decided to change their times, therefore affecting their reservation time. Instead of honoring their policy, the J Parker PLAYS CORPORATE FAVORITISM. THIS RESULTED IN THE J PARKER CANCELING our wedding 4 MONTHS before the reservation. How is one supposed to accommodate for this in such a short notice? This is simply a tactic to take away from the fact that a corporate reservation will always be a priority over an individual person who is willing to pay. To think that you are "simply asking" to move a reservation time 30 minutes up and down would be acceptable is beyond me. 30 minutes, suddenly turns into hours. Either they don't understand that 1 hour is not enough time to set up a wedding or they simply do not care. The management is lying and saying our party said it will take "3 hours to set up". The management also had the audacity to praise themselves for refunding our party. Should we praise you for paying us back the payment we made for what should have been a stable reservation? This is ridiculous, go plan your weddings somewhere else. I suggest the Crystal Gardens or the Drake hotel! read more

I have been here a few times and usually this place was more packed than I would like it to be, but that's only because it's so great and everybody wants to squeeze in! I will advice you not to hesitate and just join the pack. Great drinks, great appetizers and the staff rock as well. Whether you are in Chicago on a trip or you are local, you can't skip visiting this place if you want to enjoy great view of stunning Lake Michigan, cool music and overall great atmosphere! Make sure to try some of their fabulous signature cocktails and roasted beet salad! :-) read more

The J Parker - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great service and great views! The staff was so friendly on during our visit -- our whole group had a lovely experience! read more

The J Parker - the view of the city from the rooftop - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

came here for drinks on my husbands birthday. It was a Friday night and super busy. the views are great if you get a good seat. they have indoor and outdoor seating space. the staff wad very friendly. the drink prices were reasonable. and the drinks were very good and worth the money you pay for. I recommend coming early to get a good seat with a good view. read more

This place has a gorgeous rooftop!! The drinks were affordable and the staff was so nice. I love the view and the drinks were great. If you stay at Hotel Lincoln you get a free drink as well! How fun! The food looked really great and I would like to go back and try and get the nachos read more

I have mixed feelings about this rooftop lounge on top of The Lincoln Hotel..... The good: * STUNNING views of Lincoln Park, the lake, the surrounding area and the skyline * Friendly bartenders * Couch seating and high and low tables The bad: It's crazy crowded here!! The ugly: We came up the elevator with another couple, not realizing that we were taking the back elevator. When the doors opened at the rooftop level, we were in the kitchen. A few of the kitchen guys realized we had come up the wrong way and graciously showed us the way to the lounge. Nice, right? As we walked in near the bar area, one of the security guys came over to us and said that we had come up the wrong way. We apologized, said that the kitchen staff had explained that we were on the wrong elevator and showed us in. Clearly under direction from someone else, he apologized and said that the manager wanted us to go down the right elevator and then come back up. And then he asked specifically which guys showed us in. I asked him if he was serious, and he apologized again and said that yes, his manager requested it. When I politely refused, he asked if I wanted to speak to the manager, and I said yes. After following him around for a few minutes and not being able to locate said manager, the guy said never mind, just don't do it again next time. I honestly was looking forward to meeting the manager who would actually make two people ride an elevator down and then back up, just because we didn't realize we had come up the wrong way. I was kinda wondering if he'd try to give us a time out in a quiet corner too. With that said, the views here are stunning enough to warrant a return visit. We'll just make sure we get on the correct elevator. Because Lord knows us asians hate getting detention. read more

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I came out of town and had this reservation for a month. My group of friends and I show up for said reservation for it to be closed for a private event. We got the confirmation text the day before and confirmed and never received any message about our reservation being canceled. The host then said messages were sent out but they were having trouble with messages being received. So instead of calling us to be like hey you don't have a reservation anymore we spent money on an Uber and wasted an hour of our lives. Will not recommend to anyone. read more