Obelix

If you're coming here for drinks, it's probably a great vibe, but if you're coming for food, I…read morewould recommend elsewhere. I want to preface my review with the positives, Londyn was our server & was truly so kind, thorough, and friendly. The restaurant itself is clean & all tables have clear views of the TVs on game days. Now for the room for improvement- the food was very underwhelming. Being from the Chicago area previously, I regularly advocate for the Chicago food scene, and this unfortunately did not meet those standards. We ordered the Brussels sprouts, buffalo cauliflower, wings, and sesame ginger salad: -Brussel sprouts: tasted like they weren't seasoned just air fried and drenched in balsamic dressing -Buffalo cauliflower: soggy, unseasoned, runny buffalo sauce -Wings: PERFECTLY CRISPY, but no flavor (we ordered lemon pepper & buffalo) -Sesame ginger salad: sloppy mix of vegetables tossed in an overly sweet sauce with no sesame or ginger flavor in sight If you're not going to eat, this is probably a great spot, but from a food standpoint, there is room for improvement.

Great place for late dinner (kitchen open until 11pm on weekdays). I was in the mood for some…read morechicken wings and yes, No Vacancy for the win. Good draft, liquor and can/bottle selection and great menu for food. Buffalo style wings were suberb!

0.4 mi•River North, Near North Side

Blackened Fresh Florida Grouper Sandwich

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Pigs in a Blanket

Gilt Bar

4.3(2.4k reviews)

i was blown away by the quality of food, ambiance and service here! it was our first night in…read morechicago and gilt bar was an amazing first impression of the chicago dining scene. we started off with a cocktail and hugo spritz and our bartender was very attentive and made the drinks fast. our appetizer was so good, the tartare is served with toasted bread that was so fluffy and a perfect amount of char that complimented the beef. our entrees was also amazing the pasta had really good flavor and the sauce coated each pasta noodle perfectly we definitely made good use of the extra sauce to dip our fries in. the chicken frites was amazing as well, the chicken was juicy and the skin was slightly crispy but had so much flavor. we did a walk in on a wednesday and it was busy but we had secured the last table. i would definitely come back here!

Wednesday date night at Gilt Bar was a complete success. For starters the decor is old school…read moreclassy with a speakeasy feel. Pretty dim lighting which heightens the romantic mood. Service was spectacular. We started off with the truffle mozzarella sticks which were super tasty, the cheese pull was legit and the truffle elevated the taste of a classic. For our entrees we ordered the coal half chicken with mashed potatoes/asparagus and the double wagyu cheeseburger. The chicken with the sides was very good and we had plenty of leftovers, however the burger was definitely the star of the show. So tasty, if you're in doubt please get it! We were so full we didn't have the chance to try dessert but we will return to check it out. We also tried to take pictures in their popular Photo Booth but apparently it's a big hit because the line was outrageous so we just skipped it, maybe next time!

Photo Booth

Steamed Mussels

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Stairs going down to bathrooms

GoodFunk

3.8(41 reviews)

0.7 mi•The Loop

We ducked in here for a drink and were very pleased with our experience. The bar staff were…read morefriendly and very attentive. Great selection of wines here - and a natural wine is really something to be tried if you have never had it. The look and the feel of the place reminds you of something you would find overseas. They also offer beer and cocktails, but their wines are the highlight. Highly recommend.

Good Funk was the kind of unexpected gem that completely transforms an ordinary night--exactly what…read moreI needed while on a business trip in Chicago, the night before my birthday. I wanted nothing more than to ring in year 45 with a great glass of natural wine... and I walked out having had a 7-glass flight and one of the most memorable evenings of the trip. The bartenders deserve their own star. They weren't just knowledgeable--they were genuinely fun to talk to, the kind of people who make you feel like you've been coming there for years. We went from discussing funky wine profiles to diving deep into '80s horror films, which is absolutely my idea of a perfect tangent. Their enthusiasm and curiosity made the whole experience feel personal and spontaneous. As for the wine: unique, surprising, and delicious, even the pours I didn't expect to enjoy. Good Funk leans into exploration in the best way--nothing feels generic or predictable. Every glass had its own personality, and the flight felt like a curated adventure rather than a lineup. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, stylish without being pretentious, and perfect for either a solo wind-down or a lively night out. It's the kind of place that encourages you to linger, taste one more thing, have one more conversation. Good Funk turned what could've been a quiet, forgettable evening into an unforgettable birthday-eve celebration. If you're in Chicago and love natural wine--or just love a spot with genuine heart--don't miss this place.

0.4 mi•River North, Near North Side

Behind the bar

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Great selection of wines

Arbella

4.4(706 reviews)

If I were to pick one bar to go to every time I'm in Chicago it would be Arbella! Drinks were…read moreabsolutely phenomenal. Everyone enjoyed their drinks and they had a fun menu by the chef and we ordered off of both menus. Drinks were reasonably priced. Bartenders were great and explained what was going on. They were chill and the booths were comfortable. They had music on but not too loud so we could converse comfortably. Best bar I've been to in the city! Also wish I had taken picture of all the drinks.

October 1, 2026 TL;DR: Arbella was this close to a five-star…read moredate-night experience. The atmosphere was fantastic, our server struck the perfect balance between attentive and giving us space, and both cocktails I tried were creative and delicious. The truffle fries were pretty mediocre, but even that wouldn't have stopped me from giving Arbella five stars. What did? Discovering afterward that a 5% "service charge" had been added to the bill. I really dislike this growing practice of restaurants and bars adding percentage-based fees rather than simply pricing their menu accordingly, and it was enough to cost an otherwise excellent experience two stars. Ambiance: 5/5 Arbella absolutely nails the atmosphere. I came here on a date, and it was a great choice for that. The music was good, the lighting and decor created a really intimate vibe, and our booth was comfortable enough that we could settle in and actually enjoy the evening. There was energy in the room without it being so loud or overwhelming that we couldn't have a conversation. Even the menu design and presentation fit the experience. If you're looking for somewhere that feels elevated, interesting, and still comfortable for a date, Arbella definitely checks those boxes. Service: 5/5 Our server was fantastic. This was one of those rare occasions where someone found exactly the right balance between being attentive and not constantly interrupting our date. We never felt forgotten about, but we also had plenty of space to enjoy ourselves and talk. I especially appreciated the recommendations. Whenever we had a question or wanted guidance on what to order, our server was knowledgeable and genuinely helpful rather than simply pushing something on the menu. Excellent service from beginning to end. Drinks & Food: 4/5 The cocktails were easily the highlight. I tried the First You Take The Graham and the Trankilo Melon, and both were really good while also being different enough from what I would normally order to make the experience more memorable. This is exactly what I want from a cocktail bar: drinks that make me curious enough to try something new and then actually deliver. The truffle fries, however, were mid at best. They weren't terrible, but compared with how impressive everything else felt, they were forgettable. I'd absolutely come back for the cocktails, but I'd choose something different to eat next time. About That 5% Service Charge... This is unfortunately where Arbella lost me, and ultimately why I cannot give the experience five stars. I didn't notice until reviewing my bill afterward that a 5% service charge had been added. I strongly dislike this increasingly common practice of restaurants and bars adding percentage-based fees to the bill. If operating costs have increased, I would much rather an establishment incorporate those costs transparently into its menu prices so I know what I'm agreeing to pay when I order. Calling it a "service charge" also creates unnecessary confusion, particularly when customers are still expected to decide what to tip their server. At a cocktail-focused establishment, where you may be ordering multiple drinks throughout an evening rather than paying attention to every line of the check, I think fees like this need to be extremely clear and prominent before ordering, not something a customer discovers afterward. For me, it feels like an extra charge for simply using the establishment in exactly the way it was intended to be used. Overall: 4/5 The frustrating part is that without the service charge, this probably would have been a five-star review. Arbella gave us a genuinely great date night: beautiful atmosphere, excellent service, creative cocktails, and a space I otherwise would have happily recommended and returned to. Instead, that 5% fee left a sour final impression on what had been an excellent evening. It may seem small, but transparency around pricing matters to me. Arbella did so much right that I want to come back, but the service charge is significant enough that I would think twice before doing so.

DJ Adam Pecho bringing down the house

Crab rangoon

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Special menu espresso martini

Chicago Winery

4.3(65 reviews)

0.4 mi•Near North Side

Was gifted the wine tasting and tour for my birthday which was a very fun experience. Great deal to…read morebuy wine after. I preferred the whites and was disappointed by the reds. We had the date package and ate at the restaurant after. I recommend the pork schnitzel and pierogis. We ordered four shareables but weren't blown away by the butternut squash fondue and gougeres. Loved our hostess for the wine tasting, but wish there was more guidance on tasting notes and wine terminology. I'd recommend though to any wine lovers, I still learned a lot!

I stopped by Chicago Winery on a Wednesday early evening solo and was able to sit at the bar…read morewithout reservation. I was blown away by the ambiance and decor. Chicago Winery prioritizes upscale and intimacy but their service is personable and friendly allowing you to feel right at home. On Wednesday they offer a Happy Hour special, $5 off a tasting and $10 wine by the glass. The server as extremely kind, and was able to offer me some suggestions based on my personal palate and wine interests. I landed on the Winemaker's Tasting, which included 4, one ounce pours, including Blancs de Blancs, Albarino, Barbera and Merlot. I paired the tasting with the a BYOB board. From their menu I picked the olives, Afterglow, and the Tempesta Guanciale. The server was educated on the wines was able to walk me through the tasting and pairings but gave me independence and autonomy to enjoy at my own leisure and pace. I highly enjoyed my visit and absolutely will be returning to dine in, as well as to get a winery tour!

LIVA Private Dining Room

Dinner Reception

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Enjoy a seasonal American menu in our restaurant

Il Porcellino

4.4(1.8k reviews)

0.6 mi•Near North Side

The food was absolutely fantastic. The service was quick and our server was really sweet. My only…read moregripe was just how loud the room was. I could barely hear my date, we basically had to shout to hear each other and we were at the edge of the room.

First dinner in Chicago after happy hour. Came on a Thursday evening without a reservation but the…read morewait was still only 30 minutes and was able to order a drink from the bar while waiting. Food wise everything was really good. The calamari was fried perfectly and loved the aioli sauce. For the lasagna, I could not stop eating it that I was so full by the time I was done.

0.3 mi•River North, Near North Side

Dining room/Bar

Grilled Calamari

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Burrata Lasagna

Bar Avec

3.8(136 reviews)

My best friend was dying to show me this trendy and cute rooftop bar. I'm so happy we checked it…read moreout. It was exactly what we were craving for a summer outing. This would've been a 5 star for me, however, I couldn't help like we were being rushed. I would've understood if it was busy, but there were a lot of empty seats around us. Ignoring that, we had a great time. We were seated at hightops with lovely views of the city. Since it is a rooftop, you are greeted by a host downstairs that calls an elevator for you and then by a host upstairs. It's mainly outdoor seating. They offer some food, but if you want something more substantial, Avec downstairs is your best best. Our server was fun and guessed what drinks we would like most based on our vibes. I was happy when he said mine because I was already between two drinks and he picked one of those! I loved the Side to Side cocktail. My bestie wanted more from her Golden Oldie. It's a pretty spot.

The vibes here are immaculate. You walk into a building and check in and they send you up in an…read moreelevator to the roof. It's so iconic. Every server was kind, but we lucked out with Ingrid who was extra special! Quick and the drinks were very good. The food was just amazing. We got so many things I didn't get pics of. These dates wrapped in bacon were a highlight. Honestly you couldn't go wrong with anything you try here!

0.8 mi•West Loop, Near West Side

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Bloody Mary

Winestyr

4.4(23 reviews)

Much too expensive. Prices are way out of range of anywhere else of similar quality. The staff are…read morevery helpful and nice but the prices they charge are ridiculous

The experience there was great! The atmosphere was very nice and elegant. The presenter was very…read moreknowledgeable about the different wines we had during the tasting. There was outshines to join tHw wine club although suggested if we wanted to. This was an experience I would do again. It was a good pre birthday event.

0.9 mi•West Loop, Near West Side, West Town

Email lounge@winestyr.com to request an appointment.

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Grand Cru

5.0(12 reviews)

This is such a great spot for anyone who genuinely enjoys wine. The selection is extremely well…read morecurated, with unique and interesting bottles from all over the world, not just the same producers and labels you tend to see everywhere else. What really stands out, though, is the knowledge behind the selection. Whether you already know a lot about wine or are just looking for something new to try, you can tell there's a lot of experience and thought behind every recommendation. It's a great place to discover wines you probably wouldn't come across on your own. I also love that it's both a wine shop and a lounge, so you can pick out a bottle and actually sit down and enjoy it. Another huge plus is that you can bring in your own food. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, and one of my favorites is Pizza Amici, just make sure to order ahead because they can get busy. Great wine, a relaxed atmosphere, and a really unique concept. Definitely a place worth checking out if you enjoy discovering good wine.

Grand Cru has quickly become my favorite wine shop in Chicago. A place to hang out with friends,…read moretake classes, try new wines at happy hour, grab a favorite bottle for a night in, or get a food pairing recommendation for BYOB. Matt is very knowledgeable and has curated a great selection at any price point.

0.2 mi•River North, Near North Side

Very tasty Italian Barbera.

Wines almost gone!

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The Franklin Room

4.3(642 reviews)

Really enjoyed our dinner at The Franklin Room! The downstairs setting gives the restaurant such a…read morecozy, intimate atmosphere, and I loved how the menu pulls inspiration from different cuisines. The lamb chops and chicken roulade with masala butter sauce were standouts for me, and the Summer Wanderer cocktail completely surprised me......I wasn't sure how I felt about carrot in a cocktail, but it was delicious! The whiskey bottle keep is also such a cool touch. Service was great throughout the evening, and we finished with the mango and coconut tart. Definitely a unique River North dinner spot that's easy to walk right past if you don't know it's there.

We had such a great dinner at The Franklin Room! The space has a cozy, moody atmosphere that makes…read moreit perfect for a date night or dinner and drinks in River North. We started with the Healthy Habit and Lychee Martini, and for food we tried the Wagyu burger, coconut-marinated steak, and charred broccolini. Everything was delicious, but the burger was definitely one of our favorites. We finished with the Opera Cake for dessert, which was the perfect way to end the meal. Such a great spot if you're looking for somewhere that feels a little tucked away from the busier parts of River North. We'd definitely come back!

Mango Cheese Cake

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Truffles tuna crudo

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Wally W.

4 months ago

One of the first things that struck me about Obélix was the location. It's tucked into a surprisingly quiet part of River North. Parking looked plentiful and the streets were calm. The restaurant itself is small and intimate, which creates a cozy atmosphere but also presents a few challenges. We arrived a little early for our reservation and quickly realized there was really nowhere to wait inside. That wouldn't have been a big deal except our table wasn't ready at our reservation time because the previous diners were lingering. We ended up waiting about 15 minutes outside. I understand that reservation timing is more art than science, but it would have been nice if someone had at least acknowledged the delay or offered some small gesture while we waited. Once seated, service was mostly quite good. Our server's start was a little uneven--he stopped by but didn't initially take our drink order--but after that both he and the rest of the staff were attentive throughout the meal. The space itself is interesting. The open kitchen is enormous relative to the dining room. I found myself wondering whether they could have squeezed in a few more tables, though obviously the food coming out of that kitchen is the reason people are here. And the food was a mix of hits, misses and one absolute knockout. We started with the pâté en croûte, which had a bánh mì-inspired preparation. And just so you don't end up disappointed like Nigel: Don't expect a smooth, spreadable pâté. Instead, you'll got a chunkier, terrine-style version. I thought it was an interesting take. The escargot didn't do much for me. It arrived swimming in herb oil and I found it lacked flavor, though others at the table enjoyed it more than I did. We also tried the corn dog, a very fancy and elevated version of the summer fair staple. It was tasty, but surprisingly small. The standout dish of the night was the 10-day duck breast. Absolutely delicious and easily the best savory item we ordered. The calamari was less successful. There simply wasn't much calamari in the dish, making it difficult to share among the table. It felt like there were nearly as many potatoes as pieces of squid. The halibut, on the other hand, was quite good. The fries were fine--nothing special--but aggressively salty. Then dessert arrived: a raspberry-coated chocolate mousse that was one of the best desserts I've had in a very long time, possibly ever. It was the perfect ending. Pricing was another pleasant surprise. We landed at about $100 per person, which was actually a little less than expected. Overall, Obélix delivered some memorable dishes, especially the duck and that phenomenal dessert, along with a few frustrations around timing and pacing. read more

Mehran F.

Elite 22

813

428

1 year ago

Service 8/10. I really liked the lady from mexico. Our server was also good. My pet peeve: please do not bring other tables, dirty dishes to my table to pick up our dirty dishes to add to them. I realize it is more efficient but for the restaurant like yours, not a good idea. Value: 2/10. About $400 for my son and me - no alcohol. Driving home I wondered if there would be good value at half the price to be honest with you I thought now then I said how about hundred dollars the answer was OK but maybe I prefer to spend that money at le bouchon close to my home. Or maybe I would've been better off to have gone to the market buy some bread and cheese. I can only imagine other people's bills who would order a bottle of wine or multiple cocktails. Macaron w foie gras 2/10. It would have been better to have served that as a dessert total mistake. Crispy rice foie gras w tuna. 0/10. Total failure at 18$ One bite of caviar I got that for my son I did not taste it so I give it seven out of 10 based on looks and the fact that he seemed to like it Soft shell crab. 6/10. Did you really have to make it so salty? We ordered the steak and 10 minutes after it we ordered the duck. The duck arrived five minutes after we ordered the steak arrived around 10 or 12 minutes later I don't know how but the duck was very dry. I give it I give it.4/10 Steak tartar. So much salt. Salt city 3/10 The steak was 7/10. Done correctly. The french fries were about the worst I have had in a French restaurant. Soufflé 6/10 Two scoops of ice cream, black raspberry and banana basil Thai man they were so sweet. I give them three out of 10. Overall, the service felt a bit rushed very much assembly line driven when I received the bill. I noticed 4% staff retention no biggie but a bit of a turn off as more restaurants now find ways of Nickle and Dimming customers aside from cutting the portions and the quality So if I give le bouchon a solid 7 or 8 on a good day, I think Oblix would be a solid 2 to 2.5 on a good day. I enjoyed my time with my gorgeous son and for that I'm grateful read more

Will C.

3 years ago

I recently visited Obelix due to numerous recommendations from friends, and as a fan of French Food, my anticipation was high. However, I feel that my experience did not meet expectations. Food Quality and Presentation: My order included the Cote de Boeuf and the Turbot. The presentation of the Cote de Boeuf differed significantly from the traditional style, which typically features meat sliced and seasoned tableside. Instead, I was presented with an Entrecote, lacking the characteristic bone, which was a notable deviation, especially considering the premium price. Furthermore, while the beef quality was acceptable, it did not seem to justify the premium price(on top of the fact the sear could have been better) Regarding the Turbot, while the cooking of the fish and vegetables was satisfactory, the beurre blanc sauce's consistency was unusually thick. It gave me an impression that my dish might have been waiting to be served for some time, resulting in a temperature drop and a consequent alteration in the sauce's texture. Although the flavor of the sauce was good, its thickness impacted the overall enjoyment of the dish. Service Experience: The service aspect of our meal also left room for improvement. Our server appeared somewhat inattentive during our visit. We had requested that our courses be served sequentially to facilitate sharing, and while our server initially agreed to this, the execution was not as expected. Both the Turbot and Cote de Boeuf were served simultaneously, which was contrary to our request. read more

Sarah H.

2 years ago

What an amazing birthday brunch experience! I have to admit, we were a little nervous bringing our three young kids to a nicer place, but this restaurant exceeded every expectation. The food was absolutely outstanding -- just as everyone had raved about. The pastries were perfection, the escargot and carrots were absolutely delicious, and the entrees were divine. Every bite was a treat! But what truly made the experience memorable was our server, Celeste. She was beyond wonderful -- so attentive, funny, and really in tune with our needs. We could tell she knew we were on a tight schedule with the kids, and she made sure to get things to us quickly. She even managed to keep the little ones entertained and happy. By the end of the meal, when things started getting a little hectic, she had us all settled and out the door in no time. Honestly, can Celeste babysit? I'm already looking forward to coming back for dinner, and next time, we might just leave the kiddos at home so we can savor everything on the menu! Highly recommend this place for both the food and the service. read more

Marissa R.

Elite 26

231

261

1992

7 months ago

Obélix is such a great spot in Chicago. The whole place has a lively vibe. The service was fantastic. Friendly, attentive, and really knowledgeable about the menu without feeling rushed at all. They struck that perfect balance of checking in while still letting us relax and enjoy our lunch. And the food was amazing. Everything we ordered was beautifully done and packed with flavor. You can tell there's real attention to detail in the kitchen, and every dish felt thoughtful and elevated while still being fun. The only reason it's four stars instead of five is that they didn't have the steak frites on the menu, which we had absolutely loved on a previous visit and were excited to order again. We were definitely missing it! That said, everything else we had was still delicious. Overall, such a great spot with amazing food, great service, and a fun atmosphere. Already looking forward to the next visit. read more

Kelsey C.

2 years ago

Obelix used to be a go-to spot for us when we lived in Chicago, and we were excited to return for my birthday dinner. Unfortunately, our experience was far from what we remembered. The food, as always, was fantastic, but the service was severely lacking. We waited over 45 minutes to be seated, didn't get water or even a menu for over an hour, and our server was inattentive. No apologies were offered for the delay, and the overall atmosphere felt unwelcome. It's disappointing to see such a decline in service at a once-beloved restaurant. read more

Jack W.

336

287

2 years ago

Obelix is an absolute gem in River North! The quiche is hands down the most amazing I've ever had--light, flavorful, and perfectly baked. Pair it with their great French beer, and you've got the perfect meal. The ambiance is chic, with a nouveau vibe, and the service is top-notch. The staff is warm, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do. Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Obelix delivers a truly exceptional experience. Can't wait to go back! read more

LL C.

3 years ago

While the food was enjoyable, the service experience was quite disappointing. Our server exhibited an attitude problem and neglected to promptly refill our coffee. Additionally, her sleeve accidentally dipped into my food, and she even spilled something on my purse without acknowledging it or offering an apology. Despite requesting to speak with the manager, they never appeared, leaving us feeling unheard. This experience has left me uncertain about returning in the future. read more

Richard V.

5 months ago

The food at this restaurant is simply unmatched. It's hard to compare it to any other place because everything here is on the highest level - from the dishes to the overall atmosphere. Every visit leaves the impression that it truly doesn't get any better than this. The flavors are refined, the quality is impeccable, and the entire experience is exceptional. This is a place I wouldn't trade for anything else!!!!!!! read more

Gina W.

2 years ago

Amazing brunch - I loved everything! Plus, the service is incredible. I will be back!

Obelix - french - Updated October 2026

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Petit Pomeroy

4.4

(71 reviews)

Head upstairs and enjoy this classic French bistro - we did!…read more It's not inventive or edgy or different, but it's exactly what you want in French bistro food. Service was fine. A bit unevenly paced, but nice when present. The food runners and bussers were excellent. We loved all the food we had (the macarons are a pass) and you likely need to ask for the prix fixe menu if you're interested in that, but everything satisfies the cravings for simple French food. We will most definitely be back!

This French restaurant is located upstairs and is the sister restaurant to Sophia Steak downstairs…read more The atmosphere was quiet and relaxing, and the service was very good throughout our meal. The butter lettuce salad was probably the biggest disappointment. It felt overpriced for what was essentially just a few leaves of lettuce and not much else--definitely an interesting presentation, but not something I would order again. The other salad, however, was very good and much more enjoyable. The filet was the highlight of the meal--amazingly tender, juicy, and cooked beautifully. The fries were also excellent, crispy and delicious. I especially enjoyed the French onion soup. It was rich and thick with a deep flavor that reminded me of the French onion soup I've had in France. The fish was also prepared well and tasted very good. Overall, despite the disappointing butter lettuce salad, this was a very good dining experience. Great service, a peaceful atmosphere, and several excellent dishes. I would definitely come back, especially for the filet and French onion soup.

Brindille

4.0

(225 reviews)

•$$$$

Came during restaurant week and the vibes were honestly amazing. Super intimate and cozy, perfect…read morefor a quiet night out. Atmosphere was easily a 9.5/10 and the service was great too. The first course really impressed me. The Brussels were chopped up (which I'd never had before) and so flavorful with the caramelized onions. The French pumpkin soup was thick, cozy, and delicious with pumpkin seeds and great texture. The second course was more mid. The carrots had nice presentation and an interesting flavor, but didn't wow me. The salad tasted pretty normal. For mains, the chicken breast surprised me. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and the tomatoes added a nice sweetness. The salmon was cooked well but had a slightly bitter taste. Dessert cookies were alright, nothing crazy. I've never seen cocktails priced so high and thought I've had better cocktails for better prices. We ended up paying around $340 total due to the add ons. Still, the ambiance and service made it a nice dining experience.

Amazing ambiance and very friendly host that greeted us…read more The waiter was ... alright. Not sure about the experience of others but the waiter came off as a bit pretentious. Sort of ruined the atmosphere and a bit cold/unwelcoming with a masked smile. The food came out quite at a decent pace. The Appetizer Chilled Royale of Foie Gras and Cider Noir Gelee: 5/5 absolutely amazing. Easily one of the best choices for an appetizer.the sweetness of the glee complements the savory Foie Gras and gets balanced by their pastry. Perfection. The Entrees: "Half Pound" Classic Grilled French Prime Sirloin "EntrecôTe" Steak "Frites" and Crisp Oignons: 3/5 It was alright. The meat was cooked perfectly and seasoned well but that was it. Veggies were over salted. Considering the price and that this is a high end fine dining restaurant it was lackluster. Early Winter Farm Plate of Moulard Duck Breast, Roasted Quail, Lacqured Pork Belly, and Foie Gras: 5/5 This was a great showcase of various dishes from the restaurant. Each component was cooked exceptionally. An elevated hearty meal. Delicious and a must try. Pumpkin Tartine Pecan and Caramel Ice Cream Rum Allspice Citrus Confit: 4/5 The flavor profile turned this into an unexpected refreshing dessert and a perfect way to finish off the meal. It cleanses the plate well. Overall: 3/5 The atmosphere was great. The service could be better. The food overall 4/5. Also there was an automatic 20 some odd percent tip for a group of two. This is an expected average dinner tip percentage so in ways it's fine. However, unsure if this was standard practice at this establishment. Maybe I missed it but would be courteous to their customers if they were upfront about it.

Petite Edith

4.3

(46 reviews)

What remarkable place hidden on N. wells. The food is adventurous with a French twist and seafood…read moreforward. The wines are interesting and we tried a couple by the glass. We particularly liked the Domaine Taillandier. We started with a half dozen of Chesapeake oysters which were perfectly shucked. The Pain au Fromage is a must which is a baguette stuffed with cheese, sumac, and pomegranates. The pomegranates cut thru the richness of the cheese. This is almost its own meal. The ocean trout was smoked and in a delicious sauce. The Turbot en Brioche was also a star! We saved room for dessert and shared the chocolate Granache with salt and olive oil. The service is outstanding and helpful particularly our server Cpooh. The menu draws us back to try other treats!

Attended the pour off event on Sunday 7/26. The vibe was excellent! What a fun event!…read more Live music with the windows open to the street was so great to enjoy on a Sunday. The pour off was a fun little competition for two bartenders to compete for the win of best cocktail. Such a cool concept and friendly competition! Here's what I didn't like: The passed food - there was literally just 3 things served: 1) was prosciutto on cantaloupe, 2) chilled prawns and 3) deviled eggs stuffed with salmon I liked the eggs but how many eggs can you snack on? Would have liked to have the opportunity to order from their menu. That would have totally driven business sales if they had appetizers that we could have purchased too. I didn't like how inconsistent the drink pours were. We literally got half a cup per cocktail and noticed some people had full cups. I'm not sure why they were so small but for $15 per ticket per drink this was not cool. See photo of my drink and 2 friend's drinks after they were first served. That was wild. The new manager there was great, she came around and mingled and checked on everyone. The head manager or owner was excellent as well! He was working so hard! I would come back for food although when the menu finally opened up at the end of the event at 3, the menu was very unappealing. Feedback would be to let us buy more foods. Make a more consistent pour. Better advertisement! This was a great idea. The vibe was so chill. I would return!

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

4.3

(5.2k reviews)

Great vibes Cool interior and staff was so kind…read moreGreat place to come and share a bunch of small dishes Free birthday treat! Must order: white sangria and iberico croquettas

I came from Southern CA last weekend to host a private 70th birthday party (for myself!) with 20…read morefriends from near and far. Picked Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba because it was my old haunt some 30 years ago! It's still wonderful! Maybe more so. Food, staff and ambiance (of the intimate Toledo Room) were outstanding. My guests loved everything! Especially the sangria, the gazpacho shooters, bacon wrapped dates, filet skewers with horseradish, shrimp. It was a wonderful experience and a fun, fun night. Special thanks to event manager Emily who did great helping me plan from way across the country.

Le Bouchon

4.0

(830 reviews)

Came here for brunch with my parents and they loved it!…read more The French onion soup is still my go to The staff were friendly and we got a great seat by the front

I was very excited to try Le Bouchon, but was left a bit disappointed. The space was clean,…read moreintimate, and felt very French, but for all the buzz I had heard about their food, I felt like the dishes kind of missed the mark. There were no problems with the Steak Frites (although I wouldn't describe them as anything super special), but our Mussels dish had quite a bit of shell & the trout was served kind of cold. Additionally, we came in for an anniversary celebration and it was not acknowledged by our waitress which felt kind of odd as we had saved this spot for that special occasion. However, other than that, service moved quick and was up to par!

Beaumont's

4.2

(29 reviews)

firstly, beautiful restaurant & we had the most amazing server (shoutout to Queen)…read more foccacia was so aromatic, fluffy with a nice crisp. That cheese with garlic confit + bread is easily some of the best bites I've had ever. very good escargot, not something I crave but worth a try vodka radiattore was very creamy, imo similar to Elina's. The folds in the noodles really helped hold the sauce & the basil added a nice brightness steak frites were just ok. Well cooked steak but the fries were very undersalted & just ok Sticky date cake had a prominent toffee flavor, paired v well with the ice cream Alpine spritz was a very refreshing, slightly citrusy mocktail

Really solid new restaurant on Armitage! The inside reminds me a lot of Trivoli Tavern because it's…read moremultiple floors and they have these awesome side booths and great mood lighting. It's really the perfect place for a date or a girls night. The service was extremely considerate and kind- They kept checking in on us. They have a lot of nuts on the menu, but they did a good job with food, allergies. We tried the focaccia with the cheese spread, which was excellent and I would definitely get it again. For my main, I got the Amish chicken and I honestly wasn't crazy about it. I thought it was kind of expensive and just didn't have a lot of flavor. I personally wouldn't get it again, but they gave us a free birthday dessert which was crème brûlée. Definitely one of the best ones that I've had in the city outside of Le Bouchon. I'm actually coming back here in a week with other friends so we will see what other things I try! But it's a fun place and a good addition to the neighborhood. Although I can't get over that, this is no longer a bar where you blackout until 5 AM lolllll

Gavroche

4.4

(77 reviews)

What a remarkable restaurant and comfortable setting, just to watch the people go by on Wells in…read moreOld Town. The food is unique and stunning. Brooklyn was a server and steered us to the highlights. The bread didn't just come with butter but a baguette with salted French butter, fennel pollen, and radishes. How's that for a combination! We started with the Arpege egg is a must. It's like eating flavored air. Our group of 4 worked our way thru the menu. The escargot was perfect and the Foie Gras special melted in my mouth. We needed more baguettes to soak up the vermouth fennel cream broth in the mussels. I'm not a fan of duck breast but they sliced it up for easier eating and it was fine for me. The prime strip was perfectly cooked and sliced for us. The frites had everyone grabbing for them. The Gnocchi Parisian was light as a pillow with lemon black truffle cream, herbs and crispy garlic, and Bourbon Barrel Smoked Trout Roe. Wow! The surprise of the meal was the side dish of a Parsnip Rose, shaped like a rose. It had vanouvan curry, which I have no idea what it is, preserved gooseberries and whipped parsnip cream. Quite good! We finished with a delicious crème brûlée and the Opera cake which disappeared quickly! I knew this would be a special meal so I brought some of my appropriate French wines and their corkage fee is $45. There is also a parking lot across the street.

This is a great addition to Old Town! Very chic and unpretentious place but delivers big in service…read moreand food. The place is smallish but spaced out perfectly. Good for date nights or just a get together with friends. The tables are arranged so you have enough privacy but not isolated. The service is excellent. Our server really added to the positive experience! She was very knowledgeable of the menu and provided sensible recommendations. Now the food. The Ouef Arpége is beautifully presented, fun to eat and absolutely delicious! We also ordered the Lyonnaise which was also excellent. We skipped the foie gras because I have some ethical objections to it but our server told us that it is a whopping 1/4 pound!!! The gnocchi was also very good but very rich - maybe order it with some toast or something to break it up a little bit. Then comes the duck a l'orange - really nicely composed dish and enough to share if you ordered other dishes. And then we finally finished with crème brûlée which came in two different flavors in two separate jars. This is definitely going to make it to my regular rotation. Highly recommended!

Le Colonial

4.0

(1.8k reviews)

Outstanding food and service at Le Colonial! The food is amazing and very flavorful. Good options…read morefor everyone to choose but try the ceviche it's wonderful! The service is 5 star as well so just elevates the restaurant even more! Pro Tip: Book a reservation in advance!

Book the reservation, I promise it's worth every penny. If I could give it more stars I could. I've…read morerecommended it to everyone I know. Every bite is a bite worth cheering for. The food was to die for!! The service impeccable and the ambiance is like no other. Can't wait to go to the one in delray

Brasero

4.6

(180 reviews)

Best meal I had in Chicago. The Portuguese-inspired menu left my whole group wanting to plan a trip…read moreto Portugal. Also, such a well designed space. My group was hyper fixated on one of the wall mounted fixtures. We did the $90 tasting menu, which was a great way to experience the menu -- but come on an empty stomach. You'll be full by the third course and there's still plenty more coming. PSA, everyone at the table must do the tasting menu in the group; can't be one person out of the group. The cocktails were good, but the food was great and absolutely the reason I'd come back. Our server also clearly loved his job and the restaurant, and it was palpable. That kind of genuine enthusiasm makes such a difference in a dining experience. Great food, great hospitality, and easily one of the highlights of our trip.

Brasero was a random restaurant I found that isn't putting Chicago on the map but I think should…read more The vibe is great, the menu's simple enough, and the food was amazing! Beautiful plates. You can see them roasting meat in the open kitchen and it makes you want to get your food right away. Steak was a perfect medium rare, chicken was tender, and the pork hock had a great balance of flavors. But the showstopper for us were the oysters! You can order them in whatever quantity you want so I suggest everyone in your party have at least 1! I haven't tried anything like it and it was a good sour spice they got going on. New, not the typical cocktail sauce, just an explosion of flavor. Olivia was a great host. Recommended bars and food around the area which we really appreciated going to after dinner.

Chez Joel Bistro

4.3

(498 reviews)