There are so many great patios to enjoy in Chicago this summer, and one of my favorite spots is Hub 51. Actually, I enjoy this place all year, but the food and drinks offer a good break from a day at the beach.

Try to snag a table outside, and start with the Hub Punch. Don’t just order a glass of it. This refreshing (and alcoholic) drink is too good to stop at one glass. So order a pitcher or two.

Hub 51 has a few rules. My favorite is “feel free to talk to strangers.” It’s amazing what a couple pitchers of Hub Punch can do to alleviate any anxiety before talking to that cute guy at the next table (yes, there are plenty of attractive people here).

It might be hard to figure out what to eat, but if you just came from the beach you’re probably wanting something healthy. Drink your calories, don’t eat them. The good news: there are plenty of healthy and delicious options. The bad news: it’s hard to pick just one. My advice? Order a few things to share. The salads are huge so they can be split and served as a side. My favorite is the Sonoma Salad. It’s filled with grapefruit, cranberries, avocado, sunflower seeds and spinach. Also, all of the tacos can be made with lettuce cups to help eliminate those carbs. The All-Natural Braised Chicken Tacos have a great kick to them.

Didn’t have time to make it to the beach because of work (oh yea, that minor detail)? Well, Hub 51 is a great place to grab a drink after work. Sit back, relax and let the people watching begin.