Diners' Choice: French restaurants in Chicago / Illinois

OpenTable

Updated 05 June 2025

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!

Petite Vie

4.8

4.8 (485)

$30 and under

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

Jim

Dined 4 days ago

Chef Virant and team were on point as always. First time at Petite Vie. Spritz drinks are creative and well executed.

Mon Ami Gabi

4.9

4.9 (8382)

$30 and under

French

Lincoln Park

About the restaurant

Honoring classic French cuisine, Mon Ami Gabi is a traditional French bistro located in the heart of Lincoln Park. Our menu features simple French food including Steak Frites, fresh seafood, exquisite bites, and French rolling wine carts. Valet is located at the corner of Lincoln Park West and Belden for $20 cash or Zelle. During the holiday season, for all parties of 9 or more, we ask our guests to call the restaurant directly to book a reservation.

Did you know that you can use Lettuce gift cards for carryout and delivery? Just place your order through Lettuce website, the LettuceEats app or any Lettuce restaurant website.

Top review

EddieVIP

Dined 2 days ago

Always a treat <3 :) thank you for accommodating my special request!!!

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Popular dish

Hanger Steak

Popular dish

Filet Mignon Au Poivre

Popular dish

Filet Mignon Bordeaux

Bistronomic

4.8

4.8 (6219)

$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

joanVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Wonderful food and ambience Indoor outdoor service A little gem!

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Popular dish

Bistronomic Onion Soup

4.9

4.9 (173)

$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

larryVIP

Dined 4 days ago

Chef Sam is amazing. Delicious meal. Great service as well. Highly recommend.

Le Bouchon - Chicago

4.8

4.8 (2225)

$31 to $50

French

Bucktown / Wicker Park

About the restaurant

Le Bouchon has been thriving in Bucktown since 1993, serving classic French Bistro food in a dining room that will transport you to Paris. Voted one of the best French Restaurants in America by Timeout Magazine.

Open from 11am-10pm Monday - Saturday.

Top review

GingerVIP

Dined 4 days ago

Yesterday was my birthday and thanks to all of the wonderful people at LeBouchone for making it extra special. We had amazong oysters.... a fabulous soft shell crab and trout in a delicate pastry and great sauce. Couldn't ask for more... oh and I should have said a beautiful bottle of wine! Thank you

Chez Joel

4.8

4.8 (2711)

$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

AngieVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Excellent food and service! Everything was fresh and enjoyed the patio.

Suzette's Creperie

4.8

4.8 (2306)

$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

JulieVIP

Dined 2 days ago

Wonderful, as always…lovely ambience & delicious food!

Tallgrass Restaurant

4.7

4.7 (17)

$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

mATT

Dined 7 days ago

Great room, great service, Limited entre menu but very good. Outdoor patio is charming as well.

Miramar

4.7

4.7 (1789)

$30 and under

French

Highwood

About the restaurant

Miramar Bistro is a traditional French bistro and the menu is always fresh and seasonal. Service is friendly and thorough and the ambiance is exceptional. The French doors open to the sidewalk patio and lend to al fresco dining both for lunch and dinner. Miramar also books parties and banquets up to 300 people.

Top review

Laurie

Dined on 29 May 2025

Always a good experience here and I will return again.

Le Petit Marcel

4.6

4.6 (40)

$31 to $50

French

Lakeview / East Lakeview

About the restaurant

Le Petit Marcel invites you to experience a charming Parisian bistro in the heart of Chicago. With a warm ambiance and soft lighting, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends. Chef Mehdi has crafted a menu filled with classic French specialties like mussels, onion soup, escargot, steak tartare, and Salmon Wellington, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients that will delight your taste buds. Complement your meal with selections from our carefully curated wine list, designed to enhance your dining experience. At Le Petit Marcel, enjoy friendly and attentive service that ensures a memorable visit. Discover authentic French cuisine right in Chicago.

Top review

JoanVIP

Dined 4 days ago

We have been there many times with all great experiences. However last night they were short on wait staff resulting in terribly long waits for our drinks and placing our order. This occurred on our last visit as well. This will not deter us from going back as the food is exceptional,

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