Best Traditional French Restaurants in North Center

7 restaurants available nearby

1. Mon Ami Gabi

4.8

Exceptional(8029)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional french • Lincoln Park

Booked 81 times today

At Mon Ami Gabi in the heart of Lincoln Park, Chicago, the seafood offerings are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "spectacular" and "yummy oysters," "great mussels," and the "delicious" Trout Almondine. Each dish is crafted with a distinct French flair that elevates the dining experience. The restaurant's dedication to providing an exceptional culinary journey is evident, with visitors frequently praising the "perfectly cooked" seafood and the charming ambience. One reviewer exclaimed, "The shrimp cocktail and filet were to die for," highlighting the care put into each seafood creation. Mon Ami Gabi's seafood cuisine is a culinary delight that consistently impresses, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers in Chicago.

A photo of La Grande Boucherie - Chicago restaurant

2. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago

4.5

Awesome(846)

Price: Very Expensive

• Traditional french • River North (Chicago)

Booked 101 times today

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's River North, La Grande Boucherie offers a transcendent blend of traditional French cuisine and Chicago's rich culinary heritage. Housed in the stunning Belle Époque building, this restaurant provides an atmosphere that evokes the charm of a Parisian brasserie with its authentic fixtures and custom mosaic marble floors. Diners rave about the "exceptional food and outstanding service," with dishes like the creamy crème brûlée and perfectly prepared steak frites consistently earning high praise. Whether it's the indulgent ambiance, the meticulously crafted menu, or the attentive staff, La Grande Boucherie delivers an authentic French dining experience that is truly "the closest thing to a Paris bistro in Chicago."

3. Les Nomades

4.8

Exceptional(2240)

Price: Very Expensive

• Traditional french • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 6 times today

Nestled in the elegant Streeterville neighborhood of Chicago, Les Nomades offers an unparalleled French dining experience that has captivated the palates of discerning diners since 1978. Known for its refined ambiance and exquisite culinary masterpieces, this gem exemplifies French gastronomy at its best. Dishes like sautéed foie gras and lobster ravioli with seared scallops are crafted to perfection, showcasing the sophisticated harmony of flavors. Patrons describe it as "truly the best restaurant in Chicago," praising its "impeccable service" and "sublime" artisan cheeses and pastries. Celebrating special occasions here becomes a memorable affair, surrounded by stunning art and elegant décor, making every visit to Les Nomades a celebration of French culinary excellence.

4. Aboyer

4.7

Exceptional(588)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional french • Winnetka

Booked 21 times today

Nestled in the heart of Winnetka, Aboyer stands out as a beacon of authentic French bistro cuisine with a modern American twist. Chef Michael Lachowicz has crafted a menu that awakens the senses, featuring standout dishes like the "spectacularly fresh and flavorful" Coq au Vin and a "delicious and innovative" take on Cassoulet. Patrons rave about the "beautifully presented" meals and the "stellar" atmosphere enhanced by live music in a lovely outdoor area. With "excellent food and service" consistently praised, Aboyer is highly recommended as a destination for special occasions or just a delightful culinary escape. As one diner puts it, "This was the best meal I've had at Aboyer" — a testament to the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence and a vibrant dining experience.

5. Chez Joel

4.7

Exceptional(2645)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional french • Little Italy / University Village

Booked 13 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

6. Jilly's Cafe

4.6

Exceptional(663)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional french • Evanston

Booked 12 times today

Nestled just outside Chicago, Jilly's Cafe in Evanston is celebrated for its exceptional French cuisine with an American twist, earning it the title of a "North Shore Treasure" by Zagat. The restaurant delights with its French countryside decor and a menu that exudes authenticity and creativity. Patrons rave about the Sunday brunch where "champagne effortlessly flows" and French flavors dance harmoniously with traditional American dishes. Reviews consistently praise the "flavorful" meals like the lobster risotto and the "best seafood" bouillabaisse. With such accolades, Jilly's not only promises but delivers a truly enchanting French dining experience right in the heart of Evanston.

7. Cafe Touche

4.8

Exceptional(1406)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional french • Edison Park

Booked 38 times today

At Cafe Touche in Edison Park, Chicago, the essence of French cuisine is brought to life under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Joe Calabrese, a Culinary Institute of America alumnus. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with one guest celebrating the "delicious" French onion soup and steak frites, exclaiming that all were "amazing" alongside a "delightful wine list." The atmosphere, described as cozy and breezy, enhances the dining experience, making every visit feel like a jaunt to a Parisian bistro. The consistent praise for both the food and the "excellent service" shows Cafe Touche's commitment to providing a top-tier French dining experience. Whether it's the live jazz adding an extra touch of ambiance or the thoughtful accommodation of special requests, such as making mussels available during brunch, Cafe Touche stands out as a gem in Chicago's culinary scene.

‘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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Best Traditional French Restaurants in North Center

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7 restaurants available nearby

1. Mon Ami Gabi

2. La Grande Boucherie - Chicago

3. Les Nomades

4. Aboyer

5. Chez Joel

6. Jilly's Cafe

7. Cafe Touche

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