Chilly afternoon turned out to be a good reason to stop for a drink at the J Parker rooftop bar. The view was inviting, worth waiting for since the line downstairs was quite long. We arrived 30 min before opening and waited in the lobby of the hotel for a host to let everyone upstairs. I liked our drinks recommended by a waitress . She was super attentive and pleasant. The view and the drinks are the highlights of this rooftop. The food is not bad , but the options are rather limited to your typical bar menu : sandwiches with fries , cheeseburgers, etc . I would recommend this rooftop for drinks before or after a dinner somewhere else. Also, on a sunny day you might need your sunglasses to sit inside as it gets very bright and no shadow from the nearby buildings. read more

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

Worst server ever! Even if you have view but a rude server you won't like it, would you? We visited the place on April 6th 2024 around 1pm. After reaching the rooftop, we were greeted fine with the person at the entrance. After being seated, our server was rude and lied. He had attitude problem with us. He wanted us to leave the seat and go sit somewhere else. Let me tell you we hadn't occupied a bigger couch than the number of people we were. He probably wanted the girls who started talk to him soon after we sat, he comes back to us and said you can't sit here, it is reserved. On which I asked him what time is the reservation. He didn't have an answer. I don't remember at what point but he rudely said "No". On which went inside asked the gentleman at the entrance if we can still sit where we are sitting point him to our place and asked if there is any reservation. He gently replied that it's perfectly fine sitting where we are currently seated. After getting back to the seat, he still had attitude problem. This two star, isn't counting the slow service because I understand people want you to slow down at place with good ambience. read more

Came in for a visit & wanted to go to a rooftop bar although it's mid Jan & really cold outside. Came across this bar that's above and hotel & let me say it was beautiful! I had some white wine which I enjoyed. It was kind of empty when I went with friends but let's be honest it was Tuesday I would definitely recommend this place to go out & have drinks or for a date. In the summer they remove the glass that covers the rooftop. The view is amazing & definitely have good music as well. Looking forward to coming here again. IG: @gigi_ggma read more

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View: Mediocre Service : also bad. Sat for about an hour, told the host we hadn't been seen yet, just for someone to stop by two times in 3 hours. Food: fries were unsalted?? A war crime. Took an hour just to get salt. Way over priced for what it is Overall, worst service I've ever had. And I normally give them the benefit of the doubt. Very disappointed. Would not recommend to anyone. read more

Unfortunately we were treated with the most unprofessional response to a reservation that was made months earllier and turned away. We were told our reservation was cancelled due to a total buyout of the rooftop and someone should have contacted us to cancel. I asked to speak to a manager and was told no problem but them somehow the manager was offsite and could only be reached by phone. I was put in contact with Alec Just who repeatedly told me how sorry he was for the cancelling and lack of notice. He kept offering to honor the reservation any other night which of course didnt work for us. He promised to help us make it right by allowing us to use the space another time and give us a deal. WE will see if that happens but certainly did nothing to allow us to spend the night we had planned for months. The young man who was sent by Alec to deliver the bad news was was apologetic and professional. The seeming ease with which we were dismissed was rude and unprofessional. Alec told me he would use my experience in a training seminar to his staff as an example of what not to do. A little background of the lengths I went to to secure the reservation. I had other options and plenty of time to get a reservation elsewhere if anyone anywhere along the process had indication the rooftop was not available that day. My daughter was coming into town with friends and wanted to treat them to all Chicago has to offer. We decided to book a rooftop for cocktails and mingling after dinner. The J parker had good reviews a great location and ambiance. I began trying to secure the reservation about three months ahead of time. Since it was so far out I could not make a reservation online so I called. The recording told me to leave a message and someone would get back to me. The first message I left was probably early March. After waiting a few days in between I would call back and leave another message. No response. I decided to send an email. I received a response email on April 29th saying they received my request and that someone would be reaching out to me within 24 hours. It also contained a link to a guest portal. When following the link it reflected our reservation for 10 people on June 14th. There was an option to send a message from the portal. I messaged at least 5 different times just asking to confirm the reservation. No response. As the date got closer I wanted to confirm. I made at least 15 phone calls all getting to a point in the system where i was asked to leave a messege. I tried every button on the messeges to get to speak with a person. The closest I got was a representative from Hyatt corporate who said they would transfer me directly to the hotel. I was disconnected. One week before the reservation I waited on hold for over 30 minutes to speak with the front desk When I finally got someone I explained my efforts to confirm the reservation and was told someone would call me back shortly. No call. I will be happy to amend this review if Alec makes good on his offer. read more

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

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Possibly the worst experience I have ever had at a restaurant. We had reservations to celebrate my niece's graduation from DePaul University-- TWO WEEKS in advance. We had 10 patrons. They seated us in the bar area. WE WAITED FOR AN HOUR, and never received drinks or food. We did get water, but that ran out with no refills. HORRIBLE SERVICE! My wife asked for service three (3!!!) separate times. Nothing but crickets. Never did this before--after an hour we all walked out. NEVER go there! Bob J read more

Their hours say 2pm, but I saw a note on their website open at 12:30pm, so I called in to double check, and they were! I've been wanting to come and was happy I finally made it it! I came here on Easter Sunday, and there's a guy at a hostess stand to the right that greeted us. I'm sure we could've figured it out, but it's nice that he was there to direct people to the rooftop. He escorted us up the elevator, and we sat ourselves at an open table. The views are spectacular! The place quickly got busy within an hour later. We tried a couple of their cocktails and ordered some bites to eat. Nachos were crispy and flavorful, I liked the truffle fries, and the jalapeño cheese bites were also good. We ordered truffle fries as a starter, but because our chicken sandwich comes with regular fries, the server suggested to just upgrade to the truffle fries so we don't double up- that is truly appreciated for not overselling! The only thing I didn't enjoy was the chicken sandwich was disappointing.. I only ate two bites. It had potential, but the chicken was rubbery and the toppings were boring. I think their menu changes because the one on the website wasn't what was offered. The cocktails we tried were nicely prepared and boozy, but personally I don't like sweet cocktails, so they were too sweet for me. (Tried better than Styx, Bernie lomax, & John Daly's wedding)- My friend enjoyed them all tho! We meant to only stay for lunch, but we easily spent 3+ hours basking in the sun and $200+ bill later ;) The server was also attentive even being there for that long, and we never felt like we overstayed our welcome. We'll be back! read more

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Great place to come hang out and unwind after walking miles around Chicago. Had a nice manhattan and great service from Kelly. read more

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

10's across the board. What a great experience! Some of my friends were visiting from out of town. I wanted them to have a great experience. What's better than a rooftop? We came to The J Parker. When we arrived there were no outdoor tables available. I was very disappointed because it was a beautiful day and wanted to be outdoors. The supervisor Jagr came to our table and asked if we were doing okay. I expressed my disappointment. He checked with his staff and was able to get us moved swiftly. Our Waiter Sabastian was wonderful. Everyone's food was amazing. I was really impressed by the plant based options they had on the menu. The staff was great! The dj did not miss. I really enjoyed myself. The food, staff, music and service was excellent. I will be returning soon! read more

I love J. Parker. If I want to be on a rooftop for the sunset, this is my go-to. While they don't have a good view of the west, their eastern view is outstanding. They have the park of Lincoln, including ponds, and Lake Michigan goes out to the horizon. Since sunset is on the other side, you'll want a few clouds in the sky so you can get optimal coloring over the water and greenery to the East. Most recently my husband and I came here on a Monday just after a storm (including tornado warnings) when we arrived, no one was permitted upstairs. We were told to wait in the lobby of Hotel Lincoln for a bit. A few minutes later, they announced that the bar will be opening up in 20 minutes. When we got up to the rooftop, the sun would be setting shortly- perfect timing. Jacqueline took good care of us. The drink names are derived from Greek mythology (which I love) and they tasted wonderfully too. My husband ordered the Midas (which has gold powder decorating the top) and the Medusa (which had a gummy worm being squiggly on the top. I had the Aphrodite twice. We both liked all drinks ordered and the view was unsurpassed. Enjoy the pictures attached read more

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Really thought we'd have a better experience coming here last night. The view itself was very nice and the atmosphere was great but the service was where it needed help. The place wasn't very busy at all half the tables were open but we still waited 20-30 minutes to be greeted. The server didn't really explain anything on the menu or even made a conversation he pretty much just walked up and asked if we knew what we wanted. Then after we ordered we only really saw him like 3-4 times after the fact but the food was good and the drinks weren't bad just the presentation was pretty lack luster. read more

boy, has this place gone down hill, all the seating and tables need to be replaced, needs a refresh! A little chilly and we were sitting inside. Staff at bar and manager pretty bad, service is horrible and I had burnt pancakes, my friends breakfast was not cook the way she asked for it, the gave her one tiny frozen butter to butter her toast, use frozen tater tots... nothing too homemade or exciting.... read more

5 stars for overall experience and incredible views of the city. We went here last Sunday for a "few drinks" for my friends birthday ended up staying here most of the night. We were a group of 7 and considering the 6 people minimum during this time they made sure to accommodate us just on two separate tables. We started on the lounge first coz the booth had a long wait and as soon as we had a spot they moved us. Very accommodating and understanding. The views are incredible and the drinks are great be careful coz they can get strong. I'll definitely come back and check out the food. They don't do reservations it's a first come first serve basis only read more

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Love this spot for a rooftop in Lincoln Park. Unfortunately the food is not very good and the cocktails are mid.

Visited for the first time (surprising considering I've stayed at this hotel as a treat to myself with my pup) for a Yelp elite event and it did not disappoint! The views (even after sunset) were lovely and the temperature was a flawless gentle chill with the fires adding warmth and a classy aesthetic. I had a Gimlet and Final Word which were gin-based and dELICIOUS. I overheard the manager mentioning that they don't intend to become a bottle service location which I appreciate and respect as so many places in Chicago seem to strive for an inauthentic exclusivity which primarily highlights the disparities of the city. Not only will I be back, I'll be bringing a date- because the atmosphere was just the right blend of class and casual. Live laid back music would be divine too! Either way, I had a great time. read more

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One Manhattan, One bourbon neat and one vodka tonic. $65. Lesson learned. Never again. read more

Service was good. Food was honestly worse than Applebee's at a $200 for 2 price tag. Won't be back for dinner even with their "new menu." This is a bar. They should stick to that. read more

The J Parker is a rooftop bar that happens to serve food. It's a great place to bring friends and hangout. The J Parker (named after Lincoln's often-drunk bodyguard) is a rooftop bar located on top of the Lincoln Hotel in Lincoln Park. Avoiding the downtown tourist crowds, there is barely a line to get in here. The best views are the open-roofed south-facing view. But even if you don't get seating there, the other views are solid as well. Protip: Check out the cool window view in the restroom, you won't be disappointed. Staff here is great, kind, and friendly. Expect chatty bartenders who will give you some solid recommendations. The liquor selection is above standard with a few interesting choices. Expect ~$15 per cocktail. For a good rooftop bar, is that so bad? Haven't tried the food yet here and I doubt I ever will. This bar hits all the spots I want and then some. 5/5. Easy to get to, great views, not-too-pricey drinks, and solid place to bring your out-of-town friends. Def one I'll keep coming back to. read more

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

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Great views of the Lake and park areas. Just had drinks. We will go back in the summer months to enjoy again!

Awesome rooftop above Hotel Lincoln that overlooks Lincoln Park. The skyline looks spectacular from here, esp at night when everything is lit up. There is an enclosed rooftop and also the outdoor portion. This is going to be one of our go to spots this upcoming summer. We came here at 8 pm on Saturday night and were able to snag a table. Drinks are pretty strong and good - you get your money's worth. Truffle fries are to die for - super hot, crisp, and the house made ranch is wonderful. You can really taste the truffle as well. read more

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

Kelly was so great. Good service and an amazing view. The J Parker is definitely a staple for when I have people visiting Chicago!

Let me start by saying I was having the worst day of my life before I came here on a bright August day. I had a delightful experience at this rooftop in Chicago. The Caesar salad was a highlight, boasting a perfect balance of crispness and freshness that exceeded my expectations. Paired with a refreshing Aperol Spritz, the combination of flavors elevated my dining experience. The scenic rooftop view added extra charm. The attentive service and culinary excellence make this spot a top recommendation for those looking to savor a delectable meal with a stunning backdrop. read more

Don't go to this place, ever. They over charge you for drinks and then give you attitude. The food sucks and service is awful. Red necks galore - both clients and wait staff! read more

I came here for the first time over the weekend and had a good time. We just got some drinks which were about $15ish each. Pretty standard for a rooftop, where you're paying for the view and atmosphere. The drinks were good and the music wasn't too loud (though it was definitely hard to hear each other at some points). The views are amazing though, which is what you're really here for. I'd probably come back for a special occasion only, not just to grab a drink. Overall, it was a good visit! read more

We visited J Parker at night in the fall and sat in the enclosed rooftop. I could see where this would be a fun place during the summer, but it was an odd atmosphere in the cold weather. We couldn't see outside to enjoy the view, umbrellas were open inside, and glassware was plastic. Plus, service was incredibly slow to get drinks and food despite being quite empty. Didn't feel worth the price, but would consider trying again in the summer. read more

Have not had the food here both times I have been been here. Last time I was here was 2 years ago and I had a good experience. Today we ordered the drinks and these were easily some of the worst $13 drinks I have had. It is sad that this place has become like the signature room (terrible drinks...but at least the view are good?). Our service was pretty good and I can't complain but once again cocktails tasted cheap and looked bad. Also, our table was on top of a vent and it was blowing extremely cold air until everyones legs and bottoms. Very uncomfortable, we left after 30 minutes. read more

The J Parker - Zoo lights! - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

First impression:: The J Parker room, as you must know if you're reading this review, is on the top of the hotel. You go through an unassuming elevator door all the way to the top. When you walk out of the elevator you immediately have amazing views of the water. Whether you said inside the dining room or you sit on the patio here if you need to and the lake are stunning. Drinks:: They had a pretty good selection of beers on draft and bottle and can. We were thinking about getting brunch because everything looked amazing but we decided against it. What I saw come out of the kitchen that looked amazing was their burger. Ambiance / staff: The ambience is fine. I think they knew that nobody would be paying close attention to inside and would focus all their attention out the window. The staff was very considerate and helpful. We went after brunch service and before dinner, so they had stopped The kitchen for turnover service, but offered to get us whatever we needed. I would highly recommend this place for groups, and for a nice relaxing meal or just a rest spot if you have been walking all around the city. read more

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

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Chill place to hang and for food and drinks. The shishito peppers were me- they were kinda bland and not seasoned well. Also had the J Parker burger which was actually delicious- moist and really well balanced in flavor and texture with the tomato jam, cheese, and prosciutto. I found everything including the drinks to be on the pricier side, but it is a rooftop bar in Lincoln Park so it's something you would expect. Chill vibes and nice outdoor space. read more

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Decent rooftop bar inside the Hotel Lincoln but the vibe was a bit too loud for our taste. The drink prices are somewhat expensive, but you are paying for the view. Some friends we were with had wanted to find a rooftop bar to chill, lounge, and meet up with other friends of theirs. We chose J Parker expecting the type of moderate atmosphere where we could easily have a conversation. The elevator doors opened to a crowded dance floor blasting "Get Low" and we all looked at each other with facial expressions that said "what are we doing here?" We found a quieter nook in the back where we could sit and chat and got some drinks. The drinks were really strong, which I guess isn't a bad thing, but mine was somewhat hard to drink. Native Chicagoan Charles P. Thompson once said "Time you enjoy wasting, was not wasted". I don't really know how that applies here but decided to share it anyway. I am not sure I would come back here if I were in Chicago again, just because there are a lot of cool bars to check out and I'm sure I could find a rooftop bar that fits my vibe a little better. read more

I was finally able to visit this rooftop bar in my neighborhood after over a year of wondering what it was like up there. It honestly took me so long to stop by because I was worried there'd always be a long wait or that it'd be too crowded, because, you know, it's a rooftop bar with incredible views. Luckily, when my boyfriend and I stopped in this past week on a sunny, 60-degree evening, there were a few open seats with a fabulous view of the skyline and Lincoln Park Zoo. Score! After we selected a prime cushioned bench along the glass paneling facing the lake, a cheerful waitress appeared within a few minutes with menus and a carafe of water. We were able to take a few minutes to peruse our options, and while a few of the restaurant's signature drinks caught my eye, I started with a glass of Cab Sauv. I also ordered a helping of truffle fries for the two of us to enjoy while we drank. While I wish my wine pour was a little more generous, I know it's not always typical to offer generous pours, and the wine tasted like it was quality. Plus, who could be ~actually~ disappointed with much with a view like the one up there at the J Parker?! The truffle fries were also perfectly warm and crispy, and stayed warm for a good amount of time even though we were sitting outside where it began to get pretty chilly and windy. After about an hour, we moved inside, because a few tables had opened up. By this time (around 8:30pm) the outside was dark, so the whole skyline was lit up, and we could see all of the city's pretty lights through the all-glass windows surrounding us. While sitting inside, I ordered a drink that I'll never forget, called the Isla de las Muñecas, which featured mezcal, pineapple rum, horchata (!!!), jalapeño, poblano, lime, firewater bitters, and cinnamon dusting. Um... it was the BEST. I'm not a big fan of spice, but I almost now want to solely drink spicy cocktails for the rest of my life after having this one. Dare I say it's better than one that's sweet? Maybe. From the quick service despite the large number of people inside to the overall cool aspect of being able to drink while taking a look at the city from a different perspective, definitely give The J Parker a try! read more

The J Parker - Isla de las muñecas - features jalapeño and cinnamon! - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Such a great rooftop bar!! Located near Lincoln Park zoo, this is a great place to get a drink after hanging out in the area! It has great views of the skyline, the lake, and the park. Drinks are typical rooftop prices ($5-10 for beers and $13 for cocktails). We ordered the house signature cocktails (Better than styx and Bernie Lomax) which we're good and not watered down! When we were there, there were 2 private events so a lot of the good rooftop viewing areas were blocked off. My experience would have been much better if the reserved areas weren't blocked off! There's also an indoor area in case Chicago weather is being snippy! There's also bar food in this area. Would love to come back again! read more

The J Parker - The view of the park/lake - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My friends and I walked in and the hostess told us that they were closing in an hour and the kitchen was closed. Shortly after another small group entered and she told them the kitchen was open. We were seated and then ignored for 20 minutes. Terrible service and I was made to feel less than other patrons. read more

I think the stars aligned for my first experience at The J. Parker. I had been wanting to try it for a few years, having lived in Lincoln Park and hearing great things about the view. So after Sunday brunch, and a pleasant walk through the zoo, we decided to hop across the street for a drink. It was around 3 pm, and we were able to take the elevator straight up from the lobby of the Lincoln Hotel. Once on the rooftop, we were informed it was seat yourself (if you can find a spot). I have to admit this is my least favorite kind of set up. People end up circling like vultures, and many times conflicts arise. Luckily, it was a sunny-but-not-that-warm kinda day, so after getting our drinks at the bar we spotted a table opening up and pounced. The service was pretty meh, but they had a dj going so that made the atmosphere more fun. Definitely a younger crowd overall. Drinks are decent - $13 for a cocktail, which is pretty standard for rooftop bars around the city. I tried the Southern Belle first and then switched to prosecco, which was served in a plastic flute Luckily I wasn't trying to impress anyone! Lol I also thought the view was a little overhyped? It kind of pains me to write it because it does overlook the park and the lake with some buildings to the south but Cindy's is still my favorite rooftop bar view read more

The J Parker - Glass in front of view so there's a reflection, but you get the point - facing northeast - New American Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The J Parker is the ideal first date spot if you want to make a good impression! It is a beautiful indoor/outdoor rooftop that overlooks Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan. I really enjoyed their frozen drinks and the "Bernie Lomax" - Basil infused Gin with Aperol, lemon, tangerine la Croix! So delicious!!! read more

I have to say--I came to the J. Parker during the daytime for the first time ever and had lunch. All four of us expected a fairly average meal; I mean, when you hit a rooftop bar with a menu full of what looks like standard American fare, you have to manage expectations. But then the food arrived. Those spicy wings? Solid! The J. Parker burger? A nice double-patty sandwich (I wanted medium, it came out medium-well, not surprising since these were thinner patties) with decent toppings! The buffalo cauliflower were better than expected! All of it was slightly-elevated bar food. (The J. Parker kitchen is separate from the lobby restaurant's kitchen, which I'm told is really good too.) And of course, you can't beat the view. Note that the restaurant doesn't open until 1 PM on Fridays, and seating is first come, first served! read more

For a cocktail spot with spectacular views in Lincoln Park, head over to the Lincoln Hotel and the J Parker at the top. While staying with a friend who lives in Lincoln Park on a recent trip to the Windy City, we decided to head over to the J Parker. She told me that in the summer, it's possible to see all the way to Michigan on a clear day. Given that this was winter, and it's dark before happy hour even begins, we will have to save that view for my next estival excursion. On this particular stop, we arrived to meet some friends before we were all going to head out to dinner. I was immediately mesmerized by the flashing sign in the lobby that alternated between "All you need is love" and "All you need is Lincoln". We took the elevator to the top floor, where we were immediately deposited in front of a bank of windows that gave us a cheery view of the holiday lights at the Lincoln Park Zoo. We grabbed some signature cocktails, and were even luckier to grab a table, where we sat, sipped, chatted, and started the evening off on a great note. Loungey electronic music played in the background, making us want to gently move along to the beat, as the place filled up with people of all ages who were there to enjoy the ambiance, the drinks, and the view. We didn't stay long, as we had dinner reservations to make, but the visit already got me looking forward to my next trip to the Lincoln Hotel and J Parker. read more

Great rooftop experience at a reasonable price available at the J. Parker. Visited with my daughter early one Monday weeknight. Seating is carefully managed to ensure social distancing and staff members are masked. Good selection of beers and ciders in the $7 range. Very generous apps available for about $10. We had a huge serving of truffle fries, which were delicious. The people across from us had sweet potato waffle fries and wings, which they said were very good. Seating is limited to two hours, which was more than enough time for us to enjoy the early evening sunshine and the beautiful view. read more

Stay away! Elevators locked before the last call. A weak and shallow (mostly ice, hardly any discernable tequila )margarita gone in two sips for $22.00 My friend ordered a vodka and soda. Couldn't detect any vodka however. I'd advise you to take your money elsewhere. They'll gladly take your money but apparently, they're not too interested in giving you anything of value in return. read more

What a mediocre experience was this. We got totally different cocktails compare to the ones we ordered. They are keep charging hidden fees like restaurant surcharge with no explanation what's so ever. When asked to talk with the manager he/she didn't even have the decency to explain/apologize. Stay away from this place. read more

I can't comment on the food or drink because we never received any of either. We were a party of 10 with advanced reservations celebrating a college graduation. They seated us in a back bar section that wasn't even set up for service, not out on the rooftop section as requested. We were seated at 1:00 and at 2:00 we got up and left. 20 min after seated we asked if we had a server. 30 minutes in we received water after asking a 2nd time to see a server. We spoke to the manager and asked if we were going to be served. Literally at one hour we opted to get up and leave because although we placed our food and drink order at 35 minutes into our stay we never recd anything. Unbelievable. We watched other tables being served. I've never experienced anything quite like it. The 2 conversations with the manager yielded nothing. read more