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Diners' Choice: French restaurants in Chicago

OpenTable

Updated May 05, 2026

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

A photo of Bistronomic restaurant

4.9

4.9 (6520)

$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

H

HarrietGold

Dined 5 days ago

We love Bistronomic❣️ We especially love Tuesdays there. On Tuesday, my favorite, Dover Sole is offered. No place does it better. They never over cook it. The preparation is fairly simple but perfect. Yum❣️

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A photo of Bistronomic Onion Soup of a restaurant

Bistronomic Onion Soup

A photo of Quiche Lorraine of a restaurant

Quiche Lorraine

A photo of Martial's Beef Bourguignon of a restaurant

Martial's Beef Bourguignon

A photo of Le Bouchon - Chicago restaurant

Le Bouchon - Chicago

4.8

4.8 (2476)

$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

T

TysonGold

Dined on May 20, 2026

Extremely charming and fun French bistro. The food is exceptional, with a great regular menu and fun seasonal features. Excellent wine list guided by attentive and welcoming staff. Looking forward to my next visit!

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A photo of Pâté en Croûte of a restaurant

Pâté en Croûte

A photo of Salade Lyonnaise of a restaurant

Salade Lyonnaise

A photo of Steak Frites of a restaurant

A photo of Mon Ami Gabi restaurant

4.9

4.9 (8852)

$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. Enjoy dinner service daily, weekday happy hour only on our patio from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday Brunch from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

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

L

lauren

Dined 2 days ago

By far the best LEU spot. I always had another local Bucktown French place as my go to, but Mon Ami Gabi hits an all levels.

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A photo of Classic Profiteroles of a restaurant

Classic Profiteroles

A photo of Hanger Steak of a restaurant

A photo of Caesar Salad of a restaurant

A photo of Obelix restaurant

4.8

4.8 (498)

$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

T

Ted

Dined on May 22, 2026

We sat with Chris and he was terrific, as always! The food is always amazing. Thanks!

A photo of Chez Joel restaurant

4.8

4.8 (2821)

$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

L

LeGold

Dined 2 days ago

Our experiences at Chez Joel are always outstanding! And our guests have always agreed 100%! Thank you for a lovely evening!

A photo of Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie restaurant

Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie

4.8

4.8 (217)

$30 and under

French

Downtown / Loop

About the restaurant

Taureaux Tavern is an elevated yet inviting French-inspired restaurant and bar in the heart of Chicago’s Loop neighborhood. Designed as an all encompassing dining experience, Taureaux Tavern offers multiple areas of service and a year-round patio alongside Executive Eric Tiglao's artfully crafted menu.

Top review

K

KellyGold

Dined on Apr 21, 2026

First time trying Taureaux. We had a great lunch.

A photo of Petite Edith restaurant

4.6

4.6 (221)

$31 to $50

French

River North (Chicago)

About the restaurant

At Petite Edith, a French brasserie in Chicago's River North, every element — from the food to the service, from the wine to the warmth of the room — is shaped by intention.

Led by Chef Jenner Tomaska and Katrina Bravo of Michelin-starred Esmé Chicago, the restaurant reflects their belief that true hospitality lives in both artistry and generosity.

Rooted in French technique and guided by Midwestern spirit, Petite Edith celebrates the beauty of seasonal ingredients, thoughtful design, and the shared joy of a table well set. It is dining as conversation — graceful, heartfelt, and distinctly Chicago.

Toujours, avec goût.

Top review

D

DianaGold

Dined 2 days ago

Steak au Poivre, Rose shrimp, torchon fois gras, and bread service were excellent. The Lobster Voul au Vent had very little lobster, maybe 2 oz? The dish was mostly puffed pastry with fennel and a rich sauce. The servers are very pleasant and attentive, despite a few glitches. We brought our own wine, and the sommelier was very knowledgeable and professional. The atmosphere is one of the most beautiful indoor/outdoor dining spaces in the city, in my opinion. Truly a magical space, and a great addition to our Chicago's restaurant scene.

A photo of Bar Parisette - Chicago restaurant

Bar Parisette - Chicago

4.8

4.8 (38)

$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

E

Emma

Dined 7 days ago

I have utmost admiration for this establishment. The ambiance, and staff are simply exceptional. For me, they have absolutely nailed the neighborhood staple, with a menu that is so well thought out and ever progressing. I never feel weighed down after leaving no matter how much I eat. The food and presentation are meticulously crafted, and I thoroughly enjoy the way they consistently introduce refined interpretations of classic dishes. A must try!!

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A photo of Happy Hour at Bar Parisette of a restaurant

Happy Hour at Bar Parisette

A photo of Bar La Rue restaurant

4.6

4.6 (523)

$30 and under

French

West Loop

About the restaurant

Bar La Rue celebrates French-American cuisine with an inventive cocktail program in the heart of the neighborhood. The stylish space boasts a beautiful all-season, streetside pergola bar and dining area which will stand out as a much-desired destination for al fresco dining. Bar La Rue's stunning all-season pergola provides a streetside, 25-seat bar along with ample table seating. The pergola, adorned with lush greenery overtop, is equipped with infrared heating and cooling elements to allow for year-round use of the space that will quickly become one of the neighborhood's most coveted spots to sip, dine, and people watch.

Top review

P

PamGold

Dined on May 22, 2026

Went to Bar La Rue for a girlie lunch. The 2 course lunch combo is a great deal. Fun drink options, food was delish, service was attentive. Will def go again!

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A photo of Crispy Chicken Sandwich of a restaurant

Crispy Chicken Sandwich

A photo of Royale with Cheese of a restaurant

Royale with Cheese

A photo of French Onion Soup of a restaurant

French Onion Soup

A photo of Le Petit Marcel restaurant

Le Petit Marcel

4.4

4.4 (272)

$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

W

Weston

Dined 6 days ago

One of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. We’ve never had a bad meal here and even the less adventurous eaters in our group loved the escargot. This place is our go to and great for impressing guests without being stuffy

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A photo of SALMON WELLINGTON of a restaurant

SALMON WELLINGTON

A photo of ESCARGOT DE BOURGOGNE of a restaurant

ESCARGOT DE BOURGOGNE

A photo of Steak Frites of a restaurant

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