Diners' Choice: French restaurants in Chicago / Illinois

OpenTable

Updated 05 November 2026

Looking for restaurants with the best overall French cuisine in Chicago / Illinois? You’re in the right place. Each month OpenTable analyses more than 400,000 new diner reviews. We sort the results by category to help you discover new favourites. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Suzette's Creperie

4.9

4.9 (2459)

$31 to $50

French

Wheaton

About the restaurant

Suzette's is a cozy French Bistro specializing in both sweet and savory crepes and hearty bistro fare. Our wine list features all French wine. Attached to the restaurant is a French-inspired boulangerie and patisserie. Everyday Afternoon Tea is served. Suzette's pleasure is to provide excellent food and wine in a comfortable atmosphere that encourages our clientele to have a relaxing dining experience. In the summer the dining room extends to an outdoor patio filled with plants, flowers and fountain. Live Jazz Friday nights is reminiscent of the Hot Jazz Clubs of Paris. Located close to Wheaton College and in the heart of Historic Downtown Wheaton , Suzette's is a destination for dining.

Top review

MoniqueGold

Dined 2 days ago

Excellent food. All four entrees and appetizers were outstanding!!!! French onion soup and fois gras incredible!!! Excellent service

Petite Vie

4.8

4.8 (960)

$50 and over

French

Western Springs

About the restaurant

Nestled in the heart of downtown Western Springs, Petite Vie offers a menu curated with classic French dishes infused with Chef Paul Virant's signature flair. Spending time researching in France for inspiration, Virant has crafted every dish with meticulous attention to detail and a reverence for tradition.

Seating 65 guests, Petite Vie’s intimate space exudes the warmth and comfort of a traditional French brasserie, while seamlessly blending modern design elements. A collaboration between Virant, his wife Jennifer and long-time friend and designer Jody Tate, every detail at Petite Vie tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful curation.

Featuring French intricacy and layering, the space is a canvas of artistic expression, with artwork curated from both local talents and treasures acquired during the team's time in Paris. Framed prints, commissioned paintings, and a round antique mirror passed down through generations, adorn the walls, adding layers of intrigue.

Top review

Stephen

Dined 2 days ago

Wonderful French bistro dishes. Really hits the mark.

Obelix

4.8

4.8 (637)

$50 and over

French

River North (Chicago)

About the restaurant

From the Poilevey's La Sardine and Le Bouchon, Obélix offers an elevated dining experience that celebrates the flavors of contemporary French cuisine with a subtle twist. Located in River North, the ambiance of Obélix, designed with elegance and charm, provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal. From the moment you step inside, you're transported into a world of culinary excellence, where artfully crafted dishes are complemented by exceptional French focused wine featuring both classic and nouveau selections. Signature dishes like the Beef Wellington, foie gras terrine, and an indulgent rotating soufflé offer a glimpse into the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor.
Ideal for intimate dinners, celebrations, or simply an evening of indulgence, Obélix is where tradition meets innovation in every bite. With exceptional service, an inviting atmosphere, and a menu that speaks to both the heart and the palate, Obélix is a neighborhood gem in Chicago's culinary scene.

Top review

Ann

Dined 6 days ago

We totally enjoyed our meal as well as the service. Chris was just great!

Mon Ami Gabi

4.8

4.8 (9066)

$30 and under

French

Lincoln Park

About the restaurant

Mon Ami Gabi is Chicago's most charming French bistro, located in Lincoln Park across from the Zoo and Conservatory. Senior Executive Chef David Koehn puts a modern spin on classic French dishes like Steak Frites, Onion Soup au Gratin, Trout Almondine, Roast Chicken à la Grand-Mère, Profiteroles and Chocolate Mousse.

Named one of Chicago's Best Restaurants in 2026 by Condé Nast Traveler and a Top 100 Brunch spot by OpenTable. We offer indoor and patio dining for dinner daily, weekday Happy Hour on the patio, and Sunday Brunch from 11am to 2pm.

Add French charm to your next event. Our dining room offers semi-private and private spaces for bridal and baby showers, rehearsal dinners, weddings, corporate events and more.

Valet is at Lincoln Park West and Belden, $20 cash or Zelle. During the holidays, parties of 9 or more should call the restaurant directly to book.

Top review

KnoxGold

Dined 2 days ago

As has been our experience in the past, we thoroughly enjoyed the food, the service and the evening at Mon Ami Gabi, this time with some friend from Iowa. It is our go-to French Bistro in Chicago.

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Bar Parisette - Chicago

4.8

4.8 (60)

$31 to $50

French

Logan Square

About the restaurant

Bar Parisette is a neighborhood wine bar and bistro where warm hospitality meets the elegance of French-inspired dining. At the heart of our kitchen, Chef Madalyn Durrant’s seasonal menu draws from the rich traditions of regional French cuisine, while embracing the ingredients, flavors, and spirit of the Midwest. Every dish is thoughtfully composed to highlight the best of both worlds—rustic comfort and refined technique.

At Bar Parisette, we believe in the joy of sharing good food, great wine, and meaningful conversation. Whether you're dropping by for a casual glass or settling in for a full meal, we’re here to make every visit feel like home.

Top review

ParulGold

Dined on 26 Oct 2026

Lovely place. Great happy hour, especially on Mondays when it is offered all night! Great addition to the neighborhood.

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Experience

Chef's Counter Dinner

Bistronomic

4.8

4.8 (6643)

$30 and under

French

Gold Coast / Streeterville

About the restaurant

Bistronomic brings guests together with the ambiance of an authentic Parisian bistro while exhibiting the "je ne sais quoi" and romance only found in Chicago's Sister City, the City of Lights. Three seating options are available: the Main Dining Room, the Grand Salon and the Petit Salon. Also, the bar is another offers a more casual experience. Dark wood, subdued lighting and French accents set the inviting mood. During the holidays, Bistronomic is festively adorned with garland, lights and red bows to make holiday get-togethers even more special. Whether guests seek an inviting holiday experience, social gathering or have business to conduct, Bistronomic's inviting seasonal and locally grown French food is the answer. Bistronomic is a Family Owned Business, Chef Martial & Lulu Noguier as well as the incredible Staff will welcome you with warmth a for a very French Experience!

Top review

AlisonGold

Dined 2 days ago

They had a special of Dover sole which was prepared to perfection!

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Popular dish

Bistronomic Onion Soup

Popular dish

Beef Bourguignon

Popular dish

Caramelized Onion Soup

Miramar

4.7

4.7 (1882)

$31 to $50

French

Highwood

About the restaurant

Located in Highwood, Miramar Bistro is the soulful creation of Executive Chef Gabriel Viti, blending the elegance of a classic French bistro with the "lost-in-time" spirit of pre-Castro Havana. The exceptional ambiance features reclaimed subway tiles, mosaic floors, and antique mirrors, while seasonal French doors open to a sidewalk patio for premier al fresco lunch and dinner. The menu is a fresh, seasonal masterclass in versatility, ranging from rustic Cuban sandwiches to sophisticated French classics like Steak Frites, Bouillabaisse, and Escargot, alongside a premium raw bar. With friendly, thorough service and a high-end casual vibe, it is a neighborhood favorite for families and foodies alike. Miramar also offers a stunning venue for private parties and banquets for up to 300 guests.

Top review

KJGold

Dined on 14 Oct 2026

Nice bistro atmosphere. Escargot was very good although we had to use the bread in the bread basket for dipping into the garlic butter. Steak and fish entrees were pretty good as well.

Chez Joel

4.7

4.7 (2873)

$30 and under

French

Little Italy / University Village

About the restaurant

In the midst of Little Italy, Chez Joel creates the tastes and aromas of France for. Featuring traditional favorites, Chef Joel Kazouini offers his straightforward, expertly prepared Southern French cuisine. Chez Joel’s atmosphere is reminiscent of a true French bistro; its walls adorned with French posters and tables covered with butcher paper. The cozy environment makes Chez Joel the perfect spot for any romantic meal, and when weather permits, garden tables offer an open-air experience where you’ll find one of the most divine al fresco dining settings in the city.
Chez Joel Since 1999

Top review

Alex

Dined on 29 Oct 2026

Wonderful meal for 4 of us. Excellent food and ambience.

Tallgrass Restaurant

4.5

4.5 (148)

$31 to $50

French

Lockport

About the restaurant

Escape to Tallgrass Restaurant in historic Lockport for a unique culinary experience. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building.

Indulge in the artistry of Chef Theron Walker, who crafts exquisite French cuisine with global influences, using the freshest local ingredients.

The extensive wine list is carefully curated to pair perfectly with the ever-changing menu, featuring selections from renowned vineyards and hidden gems alike. The restaurant’s craft cocktail offerings are meticulously crafted by our in-house mixologist, delivering unique and flavorful drinks that elevate the overall dining experience.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, Tallgrass provides an inviting atmosphere with exceptional service, making it the perfect destination for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and cocktail connoisseurs. Come enjoy a culinary adventure that blends creativity, local flavor, and warm hospitality.

Top review

SandraGold

Dined on 30 Oct 2026

Lovely place for a birthday celebration. The ambiance is elegant but not stuffy. Same with the food offerings; very approachable. The foie gras mousse cornets are sweet bits of silkiness. The scallops were perfectly seared. My lamb loin and husband's duck breast were delicious. Kudos to the chef for creating the apple pie millefueille; so good and perfect for fall menu. Wine offerings are decent.

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Experience

An Evening with Blue Rock Winery

Experience

Monthly Brunch- 11/29

Experience

Monthly Brunch- 12/27

Jilly's Cafe

4.4

4.4 (758)

$31 to $50

French

Evanston

About the restaurant

Located just outside the city of Chicago, Jilly's Café has been called a "North Shore Treasure" by Zagat's 2002 restaurant survey. Our French Countryside decor, handpicked flowers, and friendly wait staff make for an intimate and cozy atmosphere suitable for all kinds of occasions(NOW PATIO AVAILABLE,ASK FOR HOURS). Here authentic French food is served with an American twist making for enough dishes to keep our specials changing daily. We offer a Sunday brunch that carefully combines a traditional American brunch with French flavors, while champagne effortlessly flows throughout the course of the meal. Jilly's is available for private parties, and reservations are strongly recommended.

Top review

WilliamGold

Dined on 22 Oct 2026

Group of 3 had a terrific meal and excellent wine. Owner was SO hospitable!! Thank you!

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Experience

Thanksgiving Dinner

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