Chicago French Restaurant Guide 2025
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Introduction
Chicago’s French dining scene has evolved from its humble beginnings to become one of the most refined and diverse in the United States. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic French bistro experience or seeking something with a more modern twist, the city offers a variety of French restaurants that can satisfy every craving. From decadent pastries and croissants to rich, flavorful sauces, Chicago’s French restaurants blend the traditional with the contemporary to offer diners a delightful taste of France. In this Chicago French restaurant guide, we’ll explore five of the city’s top French restaurants to try in 2025.
1. Les Nomades
- Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Address: 222 E. Ontario St., Chicago, IL
- Menu Highlights:
- Duck Breast with Foie Gras
- Lobster Bisque
- Crêpes Suzette
A gem in the River North neighborhood, Les Nomades is the epitome of fine dining with an elegant French twist. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and impeccable service, this restaurant offers a prix fixe menu that changes seasonally to ensure the freshest ingredients. The Duck Breast with Foie Gras is a rich and luxurious dish, while the Lobster Bisque offers a delicate balance of flavors with a hint of creaminess. For dessert, the Crêpes Suzette—flambéed tableside—is a dramatic and unforgettable finish to your meal. The restaurant’s intimate, upscale ambiance makes it a perfect choice for special occasions.
Book your table via OpenTable for a guaranteed spot at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
2. Bistronomic
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
- Address: 840 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL
- Menu Highlights:
- Steak Frites
- French Onion Soup
- Crème Brûlée
A casual yet chic bistro, Bistronomic offers a modern twist on classic French fare. Located in the Lincoln Park area, this cozy restaurant provides a relaxed yet sophisticated setting. The Steak Frites is a signature dish, perfectly cooked and served with crispy fries. Their French Onion Soup is a fan favorite, rich in flavor with a crispy, cheesy topping. And for dessert, the Crème Brûlée is the ideal sweet ending to a satisfying meal, with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust and smooth custard inside. Bistronomic’s contemporary take on French classics makes it a perfect spot for a casual yet refined meal.
Reserve your table on OpenTable for an unforgettable bistro experience.
3. Café des Architectes
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
- Address: 1 W. Goethe St., Chicago, IL
- Menu Highlights:
- Escargots de Bourgogne
- Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables
- Chocolate Mousse
Located inside the charming Hotel Talbott, Café des Architectes offers a stylish, modern French dining experience in the Gold Coast. The restaurant’s contemporary setting is complemented by its elegant French menu. The Escargots de Bourgogne are a must-try—tender snails bathed in garlic butter, a classic French dish. The Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables is juicy and flavorful, embodying the comforting essence of French home cooking. To end your meal on a sweet note, try their rich Chocolate Mousse, a velvety and indulgent treat. The upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for both intimate dinners and business meetings.
4. Le Colonial
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Address: 937 N. Rush St., Chicago, IL
- Menu Highlights:
- Vietnamese Spring Rolls (French-Vietnamese fusion)
- Braised Short Ribs
- Banana Foster Spring Rolls
Le Colonial is a blend of French and Vietnamese influences, offering diners a unique fusion of flavors. Situated in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast, this restaurant transports you to the French colonial era with its beautiful décor and romantic ambiance. The Vietnamese Spring Rolls, while not strictly French, showcase the fusion of French and Southeast Asian flavors beautifully. The Braised Short Ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender, and for dessert, the Banana Foster Spring Rolls are a must-try—a delicious twist on the classic dessert. This restaurant is ideal for those looking to try something a bit different while still enjoying French-inspired cooking.
Make reservations via OpenTable for a beautifully memorable dining experience.
5. La Sardine
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Address: 800 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL
- Menu Highlights:
- Mussels with White Wine Sauce
- Ratatouille
- Tarte Tatin
La Sardine offers a charming French bistro experience, serving rustic French cuisine with a casual, neighborhood feel. Located in Chicago’s West Loop, the restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, with the Mussels in White Wine Sauce being a standout. The Ratatouille is a flavorful vegetable medley that’s perfectly seasoned and complements the seafood. For dessert, the Tarte Tatin is a traditional French upside-down caramelized apple tart that’s always a crowd-pleaser. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes La Sardine a great spot for a relaxed yet satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving traditional French cuisine, contemporary bistro fare, or French-Vietnamese fusion, Chicago’s French restaurant scene offers something for everyone. From the luxurious ambiance of Les Nomades to the casual charm of La Sardine, these five top restaurants provide a diverse range of dining experiences, each delivering unique flavors and impeccable service.
Don’t forget to book your table via OpenTable to ensure you get a spot at these popular spots. And if you’re looking to recreate the magic of French cooking at home, check out some essential French cookware via Amazon, from skillets to soufflé dishes.
For more restaurant recommendations and delicious meal ideas, be sure to check out our Restaurant Picks and City Food Guides for more inspiration.