Patio Season is Here!

Photo courtesy of El Cid

Despite the rain and cold of this past Sunday, local Mexican restaurant El Cid #2 was busy playing host to foodies, friends and family alike at the second installment of its new 3rd Sunday “Pig & Swig” event. Displaying culinary arts at its best, owner Jose Gonzales was available for the entire event (from 2-5pm) to offer advice and demonstrate El Cid’s meat-roasting techniques. Jose knows a thing or two about spit-roasting, given that the “Pig & Swig” has its origins in regular roasts Jose’s family has been hosting in their own back yard for 20+ years.

Photo courtesy of El Ci

While at the restaurant, Jose was kind enough to offer a tour of the entire facility. The main level room is designed for a quick meal, with a slightly diner-style feel to the seating. On cool days, patrons can warm up by the fireplace in the upstairs lounge, where paintings by Chicago artist, Scott Jackson enrich its walls. El Cid #2 also offers copious outdoor seating between a front sidewalk patio and their fabulous fenced-in back patio.

Along with showcasing local artists like Scott Jackson, Jose also looks forward to hosting live musical performances and participating in the upcoming Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival (MAAF).  From July 29-31st, the MAAF transforms Logan Square's commercial corridor into full blown arts district featuring visual and performance art, live music, interactive arts activities for the whole family and culinary offerings to delight the senses including craft beers by Revolution brewing and gourmet food trucks.     

“A margarita just goes perfect with the sun,” says Jose. He takes satisfaction in seeing people cheerfully seated outdoors, relishing summertime in Chicago.

However El Cid #2 isn’t the only place to go if you’re interested in enjoying some al fresco dining. Several other restaurants around the Square have recently opened their patios. Lula Café, Dunlays on the Square, Ciao Napoli Pizzaeria, Longman & Eagle, Rewster’s Café, and Café Con Leche are all within easy walking distance of the Logan Square blue line stop and all feature outdoor seating during the summer.

For now, while the weather is still shifting between spring showers and summer heat, be sure to take advantage of the beautiful days every chance you get. It always seems that patio season comes and goes far too quickly. Support Logan Square’s culinary arts by taking a seat and ordering a meal outside on your favorite patio. You’ll be glad you did.

WHAT: “Pig & Swig” patio pig roast

WHEN: 3rd Sundays- 6/19, 7/17, 8/21, 9/18

TIME: 2:00-5:00 PM
VENUE: El Cid #2

ADDRESS: 2645 N. Kedzie Blvd, 60647
WEBSITE: http://www.elcid2.com

                                                                                   -- Justine Rowland