Best Contemporary French Restaurants in River West

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

Chicago

Neighborhoods

Bucktown / Wicker ParkDowntown / LoopGold Coast / StreetervilleLakeview / East LakeviewLincoln ParkLittle Italy / University Village

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

12 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Obelix

4.9

Exceptional(199)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary french • River North (Chicago)

Booked 46 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.

2. Mon Ami Gabi

4.9

Exceptional(8421)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • Lincoln Park

Booked 98 times today

Mon Ami Gabi, nestled in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, offers a delightful seafood experience that captures the essence of classic French cuisine. Diners rave about the "plump and delicious Moules Frites" and the melt-in-your-mouth skate wing, which is a rare find in the city. The seafood dishes are prepared with precision, ensuring every bite reflects the authenticity of traditional French flavors. Guests appreciate the "impeccable service" that complements the exquisite seafood offerings, making each visit a truly memorable occasion. Whether celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a delicious meal, Mon Ami Gabi's seafood is sure to impress.

A photo of Le Bouchon - Chicago restaurant

3. Le Bouchon - Chicago

4.8

Exceptional(2249)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary french • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 31 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.

A photo of La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant

4. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago

4.4

Awesome(1308)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary french • River North (Chicago)

Booked 16 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.

5. Bistronomic

4.8

Exceptional(6238)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 36 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.

A photo of Venteux Brasserie, Cafe, & Oyster Bar restaurant

6. Venteux Brasserie, Cafe, & Oyster Bar

4.3

Awesome(1143)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • Downtown / Loop

Booked 5 times today

Residing within Michigan Avenue's famed Carbide & Carbon building is a stylish and modern French restaurant, serving classic French fare with a contemporary twist. Through a unique dining experience crafted with passion and precision by Executive Chef Marcel Heiduk, guests are transported to the bustling brasseries that define the Parisian lifestyle... This is Venteux.

7. Coquette

4.1

Excellent(43)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • West Loop

Booked 2 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.

8. Bandol

4.4

Awesome(303)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • Downtown / Loop

Booked 7 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. Le Petit Marcel

4.5

Awesome(63)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary french • Lakeview / East Lakeview

Booked 33 times today

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.

10. Chez Joel

4.8

Exceptional(2733)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary french • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 20 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

‘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.

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Contemporary french Cuisine

River West

Contemporary french

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Belmont Central / Cragin
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Lakeview / East Lakeview
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Bucktown / Wicker Park
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