Best French Restaurants in Lower West Side

13 restaurants available nearby

1. La Serre

4.6

Exceptional(459)

Price: Expensive

• French • West Loop

Booked 120 times today

La Serre, located in the vibrant West Loop of Chicago, offers an exquisite Mediterranean dining experience inspired by the coastal regions of Provence and Saint-Tropez. The restaurant's approach to Mediterranean cuisine is both authentic and innovative, expertly highlighting fresh vegetables, seafood, and all-natural Black Angus beef. Each dish is prepared with native techniques on a hardwood charcoal hearth, infusing rich wood and charcoal flavors that elevate the ingredients without overpowering them. Guests rave about the “amazing food” and “phenomenal service,” with one diner exclaiming, "The tuna crudo is the best I've ever had in my life!" Perfect for any occasion, La Serre is a must-visit for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts.

A photo of La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant

2. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago

4.5

Awesome(1002)

Price: Very Expensive

• French • River North (Chicago)

Booked 81 times today

Experience the best of American cuisine at La Grande Boucherie in Chicago's vibrant River North. This elegant restaurant masterfully combines the rich flavors of traditional French cuisine with authentic Chicagoan culinary heritage, offering a unique twist on American classics. Guests rave about the "outstanding food quality" and "delicious steaks," highlighting dishes like the NY strip and scallops cooked to perfection. The warm, inviting ambiance, complete with custom stained-glass windows and mosaic marble floors, creates a memorable dining experience. With attentive service and a menu that caters to every palate, La Grande Boucherie is a must-visit for lovers of American cuisine.

A photo of Le Bouchon - Chicago restaurant

3. Le Bouchon - Chicago

4.8

Exceptional(2095)

Price: Expensive

• French • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 104 times today

Le Bouchon in Bucktown is the epitome of authentic Comfort Food, weaving classic French bistro flavors into every dish. Known for its cozy Parisian vibe, this neighborhood gem consistently delivers "absolutely exquisite" meals that transport diners straight to France. The steak frites and French onion soup are lauded as "off the charts good," while the cassoulet is a must-try favorite. Guests rave about the "phenomenal" service and warm atmosphere, making each visit a memorable experience. Voted one of the best French restaurants in America, Le Bouchon is cherished for its enduring quality and "unforgettable" culinary delights.

4. Chez Joel

4.7

Exceptional(2665)

Price: Moderate

• French • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 15 times today

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

5. Bistronomic

4.8

Exceptional(6076)

Price: Moderate

• French • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 37 times today

Bistronomic, located in the vibrant Gold Coast/Streeterville area of Chicago, is a seafood lover's dream come true. This charming French bistro delivers an exquisite taste of the ocean, with dishes that capture the essence of authentic French seafood cuisine. Diners rave about the "incredibly tasty" seafood offerings, with standout dishes like the expertly prepared fish entrees that are both "tasty and presented well." The restaurant's attention to detail and commitment to quality ensure that every plate is a masterpiece. Coupled with a cozy ambiance and impeccable service, Bistronomic promises a delightful culinary journey for seafood enthusiasts.

6. NoMI

4.7

Exceptional(3123)

Price: Expensive

• French • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 38 times today

Nestled above North Michigan Avenue at Park Hyatt Chicago, NoMI Kitchen offers diners an exquisite French culinary experience that is nothing short of exceptional. With its modern interpretations of classic French dishes, NoMI captivates with flavors that are both sophisticated and revelatory. Guests have lauded the restaurant for its "fantastic service and ambiance," and the "delicious food" that keeps them returning for more. The setting boasts stunning views of Water Tower Place, adding to the allure of this upscale yet approachable dining venue. Whether it's a special celebration or a delightful brunch, NoMI promises a memorable journey through French cuisine, making it a must-visit in Chicago.

7. Obelix

new

5.0

Exceptional(1)

Price: Very Expensive

• French • River North (Chicago)

Booked 83 times today

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.

8. Bandol

4.2

Awesome(264)

Price: Moderate

• French • Downtown / Loop

Booked 25 times today

Bandol, nestled in Downtown Chicago, offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience that seamlessly blends authentic flavors with contemporary flair. Drawing inspiration from the coastal charm of Bandol, France, the restaurant presents "excellent food" and "amazing dishes" that have diners raving. With a focus on quality ingredients, highlights include the "crispiest most delicious" salmon and perfectly seared scallops. Guests appreciate the "professional, prompt, and courteous service" in a relaxed yet upscale art-deco setting. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or a refined dinner, Bandol's commitment to Mediterranean excellence makes it a standout choice for discerning food lovers seeking genuine culinary artistry.

9. Coquette

3.9

Excellent(11)

Price: Moderate

• French • West Loop

Booked 12 times today

Chicago’s cutest little French bistro & wine bar. Coquette is a pink Parisian dream offering modern French cuisine paired with exciting wines and cocktails.Led by Executive Chef Marcos Campos, Culinary Director Erwin Mallet and Executive Pastry Chef Shannah Primiano, Coquette expresses their vision for a modern bistro, where quintessential recipes and iconic dishes are matched with contemporary influences. Though our cuisine may be “nouvelle” our equipment is undeniably primitive, with all cooking done by live-fire ovens and mangal grills. We also feature a dry aging system that blends state-of-the-art technology with methods that go back thousands of years to unleash the flavor and tenderness of the beef, duck and fish prepared in our kitchen. Coquette’s wine list is a playful celebration of France’s most under-appreciated regions and boldest winemakers.

A photo of Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie restaurant

10. Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie

4.4

Awesome(182)

Price: Moderate

• French • Downtown / Loop

Booked 5 times today

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.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
10/10, I love this restaurant so much, and this trip didn’t disappoint. It was my birthday, and the staff was so nice and kind, and the food was amazing as usual (highlights were the French onion soup, Manion style steak frites, and a caviar egg special dish). The whole evening was truly a special and memorable night.
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Le Bouchon - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• French• Bucktown / Wicker Park
•
4.8
R
RobertVIP
Chicago / Illinois •44 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
A culinary oasis - every dish is flavorful and prepared to perfection. A wonderful experience.
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Chez JoelPrice: Moderate• French• Little Italy / University Village
•
4.7
B
BarbaraVIP
Chicago / Illinois •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
I highly recommend La Grande Boucherie. The space is beautiful. We felt like we were in Paris and the Xmas lights added to the ambience. So many delicious sounding items on the menu. It was hard to decide. We both had the lobster bisque and a Croque Monsieur and were too full for dessert! The staff from the hostess Natalie, our server Nico, and the manager Scott were attentive and welcoming. Go there!!!
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La Grande Boucherie - ChicagoPrice: Very Expensive• French• River North (Chicago)
•
4.5
J
Jonny
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
My girlfriend and I have been trying to do a better job of exploring West Loop restaurants the last couple months. We thoroughly enjoyed all of these restaurants we've recently tried (Komo, Proxi, Hide+Seek, Fora) but La Serre was the best experience out of all of them. The food was phenomenal, service was excellent, and had an energy to it without being 'loud'. Highly recommend
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La SerrePrice: Expensive• French• West Loop
•
4.6
R
RobertVIP
Chicago / Illinois •38 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We had a terrific evening. The food, service and atmosphere were top notch!
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BistronomicPrice: Moderate• French• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.8

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Best French Restaurants in Lower West Side

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13 restaurants available nearby

1. La Serre

2. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago

3. Le Bouchon - Chicago

4. Chez Joel

5. Bistronomic

6. NoMI

7. Obelix

8. Bandol

9. Coquette

10. Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie

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