Offshore holds the title of the world’s largest rooftop, and trust me, it lives up to the hype. Spanning over 36,000 square feet, it’s more than just a dining area—it’s an expansive indoor-outdoor space that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re here for brunch, cocktails, or just to soak in the views, there’s plenty of room to relax and enjoy the ambiance without feeling crowded.
When it comes to breathtaking views, great food, and an unforgettable experience, Offshore at Navy Pier is in a league of its own. If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying brunch at the world’s largest rooftop while overlooking the glistening waters of Lake Michigan, then you’re in for a treat! During our recent visit, we indulged in a feast that was nothing short of spectacular. From savory classics to decadent desserts, Offshore served up a brunch that left us satisfied and smiling.
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Let me take you through our experience dish by dish—because trust me, every bite was worth savoring.
A Warm Welcome to Offshore
As we stepped into Offshore, the atmosphere immediately captured us. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan, with Chicago’s skyline standing tall in the background. Despite the winter chill outside, the space felt warm and inviting with its cozy seating and modern design.
Our table was perfectly situated near the windows, offering uninterrupted views of the lake. As we settled in, the friendly staff brought us menus and offered recommendations. It didn’t take long for us to dive into what would become a truly indulgent brunch. The food and drinks at Offshore were absolutely unforgettable—every bite and sip felt like it was made to elevate the entire experience. Let me take you through what we enjoyed, because honestly, I’m still dreaming about it all!
Savory Brunch Delights from Offshore Navy Pier
Crab Benedict
First up was the Crab Benedict. I’ve had eggs benedict before, but this was something else entirely. The crab cakes were perfectly cooked, with a slight crisp on the outside and tender, flavorful crab inside. The poached eggs were just the right consistency, with the yolk spilling out like liquid gold when I cut into them. The hollandaise sauce was creamy and tangy, tying the whole dish together. Every bite felt luxurious, and the freshness of the crab stood out in the best way possible.
Crispy Bacon & Potatoes
Of course, no brunch is complete without some classics, and Offshore nailed these too. The crispy bacon was exactly how I like it—perfectly cooked with a crunch that wasn’t too hard. The potatoes were little golden nuggets of goodness, seasoned to perfection with a mix of herbs and spices. They had that crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior that made them absolutely irresistible.
Sweet Temptations from Offshore
Bourbon Berry French Toast
Now, let’s talk about the Bourbon Berry French Toast. I’m not kidding when I say this was one of the best French toasts I’ve ever had. The brioche bread was thick and fluffy, with a golden crust that hinted at just the right amount of caramelization. The bourbon-infused syrup was sweet but not overpowering, and the berries added a tartness that balanced the richness beautifully. I took one bite and immediately declared it my favorite dish of the day.
Strawberry Shortcake
For dessert, we couldn’t resist the Strawberry Shortcake. It was light, refreshing, and oh-so-delicious. The shortcake itself was soft and buttery, with just enough crumbly texture to keep things interesting. The strawberries tasted fresh, like they’d just been picked, and the whipped cream was airy and not overly sweet. It was the kind of dessert that feels indulgent but doesn’t leave you too full—a perfect way to wrap up the savory dishes.
Brownie
Then there was the brownie. Oh my goodness, this was chocolate heaven on a plate! It was rich, fudgy, and had that perfect balance of gooeyness and structure. The drizzle of chocolate sauce on top just pushed it over the edge in the best way possible. I paired it with a cup of coffee, and the combination was pure bliss.
Cheers to Drinks at Offshore!
Of course, no brunch is complete without drinks, and Offshore delivered in that department too. Their cocktails were as impressive as the food. I opted for a mimosa, which was perfectly balanced—not too sweet, with just the right amount of fizz. My husband went for one of their signature bloody marys, which came loaded with all the fixings and packed a flavorful punch. Whether you’re into classic brunch cocktails or something more creative, Offshore’s drink menu has you covered.
The Overall Experience at Offshore Navy Pier
What sets Offshore apart isn’t just the food—it’s the entire experience. There’s something magical about sipping coffee and enjoying a meal while overlooking one of the most iconic views in Chicago. The lively yet relaxed vibe of the space made it feel like the perfect spot to kick back, indulge, and just enjoy the moment.
The staff at Offshore were exceptional, always ensuring we had everything we needed and offering thoughtful recommendations. They even shared some insights about the space and its history, which added a personal touch to our visit.
Tips for Visiting Offshore
- Make a Reservation: Offshore is a popular spot, especially for brunch, so be sure to book a table in advance.
- Arrive Early: If you’re dining in the winter, arriving early ensures you get to enjoy those gorgeous morning views without the crowds.
- Dress Comfortably: While Offshore is upscale, it’s also very approachable. Bring layers if you plan to step out on the outdoor terrace for photos—it can get chilly!
- Bring Your Appetite: With so many delicious options on the menu, you’ll want to try a little bit of everything.
Why Offshore Is a Must-Visit
Offshore isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience that combines incredible food, stunning views, and top-notch service. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends, or just looking for a memorable meal, this rooftop gem at Navy Pier is the place to be.
What I loved most about the food and drinks at Offshore was how they took classic brunch items and elevated them with unique flavors and attention to detail. Each dish felt like it had been crafted with care, from the presentation to the flavors.
The combination of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and those incredible lakefront views made this brunch feel more like an experience than just a meal. Even now, I can’t decide which part was my favorite—the perfectly cooked crab cakes, the bourbon syrup on the French toast, or the indulgent brownie. It was all just so good!
If you ever find yourself at Navy Pier, do yourself a favor and stop by Offshore for brunch. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Happy Hour at Offshore Navy Pier: The Perfect Afternoon Treat
The happy hour menu is packed with great options, from creative cocktails to shareable bites. I couldn’t resist trying their seasonal sangria, which was perfectly refreshing and bursting with fruity flavors. My husband went for one of their local craft beers on tap, and it paired so well with the crispy calamari we ordered as a snack.
What I loved most was the vibe—relaxed but lively, with a mix of locals and tourists all soaking in the incredible views. It felt like the perfect way to enjoy Offshore’s atmosphere without the hustle of a full meal. Plus, there’s just something about sipping a drink while watching the sunset over Lake Michigan that feels magical.
Nearby Attractions to Explore Around Offshore Rooftop
After indulging in an incredible meal and drinks at Offshore Rooftop, we discovered that the fun doesn’t have to stop there. Navy Pier is home to some of Chicago’s best attractions, and during the winter season, it transforms into a magical wonderland. Here are two must-visit spots nearby that made our trip unforgettable.
1. Winterland at Navy Pier
If you’re visiting during the holiday season, Winterland at Navy Pier is an absolute must-see. Just steps away from Offshore, this festive event truly captures the magic of winter in Chicago. When we wandered into Winterland, it felt like stepping into a holiday movie—twinkling lights, cheerful music, and an atmosphere buzzing with excitement.
The highlight for us was the indoor ice skating rink. Even if you’re not a pro skater (I definitely am not!), it’s such a fun activity to try. My son absolutely loved zipping around the rink, and the staff were so friendly and helpful. Beyond skating, there were carnival games, a train ride for kids, and even a giant holiday market where we picked up some unique gifts and warm treats like hot cocoa and churros.
Winterland is perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves the holiday spirit. It’s like having a winter festival right at your fingertips, and being so close to Offshore makes it super convenient to enjoy after a hearty brunch or during happy hour.
2. Light Up The Lake
Another nearby gem during the winter season is Light Up The Lake, an immersive light experience that’s as magical as it sounds. Located right at Navy Pier, this attraction blew us away with its larger-than-life light displays.
Walking through the illuminated tunnels and taking photos with glowing sculptures was one of my favorite parts of the evening. Each display is themed and meticulously designed, from colorful arches to sparkling snowflakes. My husband and I couldn’t stop snapping pictures, and our son was in awe of the bright, whimsical designs.
One of the coolest features of Light Up The Lake is the indoor snowfall. Yes, you read that right—snow indoors! It was such a unique experience and added an extra layer of magic to our visit. There’s also a section for kids to meet Santa, and the whole setup feels like a festive playground for all ages.
Have you been to Offshore at Navy Pier? What was your favorite dish? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out my 15 Pages Chicago Travel Guide for more tips and recommendations. Until next time, happy traveling and even happier brunching!
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Enjoy your brunch!!!
