Let’s be honest: some restaurants just serve food. Others? They serve experiences — and that’s exactly what Recess Chicago is dishing out in the West Loop. If you’ve ever dreamed of reliving recess as an adult — but with cocktails, killer eats, and a rooftop-sized patio — this is the spot. Tucked into a former industrial space at 838 W Kinzie St, Recess is massive, playful, unapologetically bold, and full of flavor in every way. Whether you're here for brunch, date night, or just to vibe with your crew in a shipping-container-turned-bar, Recess is where Chicagoans go when they want to mix fun with fantastic food and drink.

🛝 Why Recess Is a Whole Mood

Recess isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a 37,000-square-foot patio paradise complete with multiple bars, neon signs, fire pits, and Instagram-worthy design around every corner. Located right in the heart of the West Loop, it blends industrial chic with outdoor chill and tosses in a little “schoolyard rebellion” flair. Even the menus are styled like report cards, and the cocktails? Let’s just say your teacher definitely wouldn’t approve — but your inner child will be thrilled.

🍔 Must-Try Eats & Sips

Here’s what’s bringing folks back to Recess on repeat:

• The Recess Burger: thick, juicy, smashed and stacked high with American cheese and their signature sauce. Total MVP.

• Brussels Sprouts: roasted, crispy, drizzled in honey balsamic — even veggie-haters get converted here.

• Loaded Tots: come hungry or share with the table — they’re crunchy, cheesy, and impossible to stop eating.

• Buffalo Cauliflower: spicy, saucy, and paired with ranch to cool the burn.

• Cocktails: Get the “Group Project” (a massive cocktail served in a giant beaker!) or sip on the “Overachiever” — tequila, mezcal, pineapple, and lime that’ll give your taste buds extra credit.
  

🎉 Pro tip: Don’t skip the boozy snow cones if you’re visiting during summer. Yes, snow cones for grown-ups are a thing. Yes, they’re incredible.

🎯 What Makes It Stand Out

• One of Chicago’s largest patios — yes, even in the winter (they heat it up!)

• A vibe that screams “fun” — shipping containers, school-themed decor, and open-air lounges

• Weekend brunch is next level — with menu items like chilaquiles, spiked coffee, and stacked French toast

• Trivia nights, themed parties, pop-ups, and more — this place is always cookin’ up something fun

• Friendly staff, speedy service, and a playlist that’ll keep your toes tapping
  

🌆 Explore the West Loop Afterward

You’re already in the West Loop, so why not make a day of it? Recess is just a stone’s throw from Fulton Market’s food scene, Randolph Street’s trendy boutiques, and the always-buzzy Time Out Market. Wanna walk off that burger? Union Park and the Chicago Riverwalk are a quick drive away.

🧠 Fun Fact

Recess is run by Atomic Hospitality, the group behind other West Loop favorites like City Hall and PB&J — so you know they’re pros at making places feel equal parts welcoming and wow-worthy.

🚗 Roll into Recess in Style with Chicago Adventure Rentals
Heading to the West Loop? Make it even easier (and way more fun) by grabbing a ride from Chicago Adventure Rentals. Whether you’re exploring the city’s foodie scene, hopping between neighborhoods, or cruising along Lake Shore Drive, we’ve got the perfect car to get you there in style. Book your adventure today at this link or give us a call at +1 872-296-8008 — and don’t forget to save us a spot at Recess!