Five of My Favorite French Restaurants in Chicago

Let’s face it, winter in Chicago isn’t much fun and doesn’t provide much opportunity for outdoor activities. It is, however, a great time to try new restaurants or go out to a favorite place for delicious comfort food. Given it’s February, I thought it would be a good time to suggest a few of my favorite French restaurants in Chicago. These are not in any particular order – I’ve been to all of them many times, and they are all reliably good. Choosing one depends on your mood and the occasion.

Mon Ami Gabi │ 2300 N Lincoln Park West, Chicago Tél: 1-773-348-8886

For me, Mon Ami Gabi is what the French would call ma cantine, meaning one of the places I regularly go. It’s just a few blocks from house, the food is reliably good, you can order Bordeaux by the glass, and I’m a recognized patron from the neighborhood – which helps when I need a table at the last minute. The décor and ambiance will instantly takes you to 1950s Paris and the menu offers classics like steak frites, poulet roti, l’escargot, and onion. Reservations are highly recommended.

Le Colonial │ 57 E. Oak Street, Chicago Tél: 1-312-255-0088

Located in the upscale and bustling Oak Street neighborhood , Le Colonial features a beautiful second floor dining room, an elegant porch overlooking the street below, and a lounge reminiscent of the Hemingway Bar. The restaurant is a famed Vietnamese institution, vividly capturing the beauty, romance, and spirit of French colonial southeast Asia in the 1920’s. The menu features everything from crispy spring rolls to favorites like curried chicken and stir fried shrimp. Le Colonial is great for a date night or dinner with girlfriends. Reservations are recommended.

Bistronomic │ 840 North Wabash, Chicago Tél: 1-312-944-8400

Bistronomic offers modern cuisine rooted in the French culture and bistrot experience. It is owned and operated by Executive Chef Martial Noguier, who takes pride in his work and frequently circulates the restaurant to ensure guests are satisfied. The menu showcases seasonal and sustainable ingredients from Midwestern farms that bring contemporary bistro fare features big flavors, and a variety of portion sizes and options. Everything is prepared in-house and everything at this award-winning restaurant is absolutely delicious. Martial’s wife Laurence overseas the dining room – the service is outstanding. Reservations are highly recommended.

Les Nomades │ 222 East Ontario Street, Chicago Tél: 1-312-649-9010

Les Nomades is the most expensive restaurant of my recommendation, definitely what I would consider “special occasion” dining, and so worthwhile. The food is delicious, the service is outstanding, and the wine list is exceptional. It’s very old school – a huge plus for me. The seared Hudson Valley foie gras served with baked apple and banana water is a must. I paired it with a Sauterne wine – and highly recommend anyone do the same. The waitstaff anticipates your every need without hovering over the table. The owner is Mary Beth Liccioni and Roland Liccioni is the chef de cuisine. Reservations are a must.

Le Bouchon │ 958 North Damen Avenue, Chicago Tél: 1-773-862-6600

Le Bouchon has been thriving in Bucktown since 1993, serving classic French bistrot food in a dining room that will transport you to Paris. Voted one of the best French Restaurants in America by Timeout Magazine. Open for Lunch and Dinner, Le Bouchon serves the classics, ranging from decadent Onion Tart, Garlic-y Escargot, and Salade Lyonnaise, to entrees including Steak Frites, Poulet Roti and a Full Duck for two. The staff is knowledgeable and will be able to guide you in the right direction with our extensive French wine list. Reservations are an absolute must.