The J. Parker

Chicago adores its rooftops but as soon as the cold winds begin to blow, the hotspots cool off and shutter. Not so the J. Parker atop Hotel Lincoln. The year-round, retractable rooftop setting on the 13th floor serves up a craft cocktail menu that changes seasonally as well as craft brews, ciders, wine and spirits. Scan the heavens and order a Message from Mars, a tropical Saturn's Return or a ginny Pluto Matters. Snuggle by the glass fire pits and take in 180-degree unobstructed views of Lincoln Park, Lake Michigan and the urban skyline. There's live jazz on Wednesday evenings (6-9 pm) and check the web site for DJ entertainment and themed special events. Open until 1 a.m. on weekends, the J. Parker offers nosh for the night like short rib egg rolls, Nashville hot chicken, soy ginger wings, J Parker burger, smoked pork belly, Buffalo cauliflower and churro fries.