Best Upscale French Restaurants in Chicago | Upscale French Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale French Restaurants in Chicago | Upscale French Food

• Melt n Dip — French · rated 5/5: Step into a decadent sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of warm Belgian chocolate and golden, toasted batter creates an immediate sense of indulgence. Artfully folded crepes and crisp, airy waffles serve as canvases for molten drizzles, spiced lotus cream, and traditional textures like Knefe, turning every plate into a vibrant celebration of sweetness. It is a whimsical destination for dessert lovers, where each bite offers a rich, multisensory escape into the world of premium cocoa and imaginative confections.
• Chicago French Market — French · rated 5/5: Nestled within the vibrant, European-inspired bustle of the city’s premier food hall, this boutique destination elevates pet treats to an artisanal art form. Amidst the lively hum of the market, pet owners discover wholesome, human-grade snacks and all-natural chews, offering a gourmet experience that ensures four-legged companions enjoy the same quality and care as their owners.
• Bittersweet Pastry Shop — French · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through expansive windows into this airy, European-inspired sanctuary, where the sweet perfume of caramelized sugar and clarified butter lingers in the air. Glass cases display a meticulous parade of jewel-toned fruit tarts, flaky golden croissants, and intricately layered cakes that balance classic technique with modern elegance. It is a neighborhood cornerstone of refined indulgence, where the simple pleasure of a perfectly pulled espresso meets the artistry of world-class patisserie.
• Bitter Pops — American · rated 5/5: Bitter Pops serves as a vibrant crossroads for discovery, where the air is filled with the hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses filled with everything from zesty California Albariños to soulful, amphora-aged Slovenian reds. This spirited destination invites guests to explore a meticulously curated world of flavor, pairing the relaxed warmth of a neighborhood haunt with a sophisticated collection of rare Austrian Zweigelts and elegant French Pinots that turn every pour into a global adventure.
• Bittersweet Pastry Shop — French · rated 5/5: The air at Bittersweet Pastry Shop is thick with the irresistible scent of caramelized sugar and cultured butter, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where artisanal craft takes center stage. Glass cases overflow with golden, shatteringly crisp croissants and rustic fruit-studded clafoutis, while savory quiches rich with Gruyere offer a decadent counterpoint to the sticky, nut-topped rolls. Every bite, from the snap of a fresh baguette to the delicate layers of a pain au chocolat, captures the timeless elegance of a classic neighborhood patisserie.
• Le Royale Icing & Specialty Cakes — French · rated 5/5: Step into a whimsical sanctuary where the sweet, buttery perfume of fresh-baked sponge and vanilla bean fills the air, inviting guests into a world of edible artistry. Masterfully piped rosettes and velvety layers of decadent icing transform simple ingredients into breathtaking centerpieces, where every slice offers a harmonious balance of delicate crumb and rich, silken sweetness.
• Love & Light Cafe — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant neighborhood sanctuary, where the comforting aroma of griddled French toast and golden, caramelized pearl waffles fills the air. Guests find a perfect balance of indulgence and wellness, lingering over buttery croissant sandwiches and hearty breakfast platters or opting for nourishing avocado toast and light, protein-packed eggwiches.
• La Boulangerie & Co — French · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across flour-dusted marble counters in this charming French-inspired sanctuary, where the intoxicating aroma of golden, buttery croissants and freshly baked sourdough fills the air. Guests are invited to slow down and savor the artistry of the artisan baker, from the delicate shatter of a perfectly laminated pastry to the comforting warmth of a rich café au lait.
• Pops For Champagne — French · rated 4/5: This iconic urban sanctuary hums with the effervescent energy of a never-ending celebration, where the rhythmic pop of corks and the shimmer of golden bubbles invite guests to linger over an exquisite array of champagnes by the glass. The sleek, sophisticated lounge transforms a simple toast into an immersive sensory journey, pairing world-class vintages with an atmosphere of timeless elegance and sparkling conversation.
• Alliance Bakery — French · rated 4/5: The air inside this charming neighborhood staple is thick with the irresistible scent of browning butter and yeast, drawing guests toward counters piled high with golden, shatteringly crisp pastries. Artisanal layers of laminated dough are transformed into everything from sweet, almond-dusted delights and vibrant guava-filled treats to savory parcels overflowing with melted cheeses and roasted peppers, offering a masterclass in the delicate art of the French bakery.
• Weegee's Lounge — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this moody, mid-century gem feels like slipping into a noir film, where the soft glow of vintage lamps illuminates a polished bar and the rhythmic shake of ice. Masterfully crafted classics like the botanical Aviation and the potent Sazerac are served with timeless precision, inviting guests to linger over conversation in the intimate, shadow-dappled space. It is a sanctuary of old-school cool where the crisp chill of a perfect Martini and the effervescence of a French 75 define an evening of effortless sophistication.
• Stussy's Diner — American · rated 4/5: Stussy’s Diner captures the soul of morning comfort, where the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle and the aroma of buttery, house-made biscuits create a warm sanctuary for breakfast lovers. Guests can dive into hearty plates of spice-kissed Cajun grits and savory salmon or indulge in decadent French toast bites swirled with Nutella and cream. It is a vibrant neighborhood hub where classic, stick-to-your-ribs staples meet sweet, creative whimsy, ensuring every guest leaves with a full heart and a satisfied palate.
• French Press Coffee — American · rated 4/5: This boutique roastery serves as a fragrant retreat where the deep, earthy aroma of small-batch beans mingles with whimsical notes of toasted maple pecan and salted caramel crème. Whether savoring the sun-drenched clarity of a blonde roast or the nostalgic warmth of a cinnamon-spiced cookie blend, every cup offers a velvety journey through meticulously crafted flavors that transform the morning ritual into an indulgent sensory escape.
• Theory — American · rated 4/5: Theory pulses with a modern, eclectic energy, where the comforting aroma of griddled challah French toast mingles with the zesty, bold spices of house-made chilaquiles. This vibrant social hub transforms casual dining into a sensory celebration, offering everything from crispy breakfast empanadas to inventive Cacio e Pepe chips that invite lingering over shared plates in a spirited, welcoming atmosphere.
• La Boulangerie — French · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across marble counters piled high with golden, flour-dusted boules and rows of jewel-toned tarts that scent the air with the irresistible aroma of melting butter and toasted yeast. This charming French sanctuary invites guests to slow down over velvety café au lait and shatteringly crisp croissants, capturing the soulful essence of a Parisian morning in every warm, artisanal bite.
• Cafe Urbano — Italian · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through floor-to-ceiling windows to illuminate a sleek, industrial-chic space where the rhythmic hum of the espresso machine sets a sophisticated tempo for the city’s daily pulse. Artfully plated bistro fare celebrates seasonal ingredients, offering a vibrant fusion of cosmopolitan flavors and rustic comfort that delights the palate with every bite. This polished urban sanctuary invites guests to linger over the aroma of freshly roasted beans and the buzz of lively conversation, making every visit feel like a curated escape from the bustle outside.
• Vie — French · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through expansive windows into a refined, contemporary space where the art of preservation and the rhythm of the seasons take center stage. Each plate is a vibrant tapestry of locally sourced ingredients, elevated by house-made pickles and artisanal ferments that bring a bright, soulful depth to sophisticated American cuisine.
• Del Sur Bakery — Spanish · rated 4/5: The air at Del Sur Bakery is thick with the sweet scent of toasted rice and caramelized sugar, drawing visitors into a space where traditional French pastry techniques meet the vibrant, nostalgic flavors of the Philippines. Golden, shatteringly crisp croissants are reimagined with savory longanisa or fragrant coconut, while inventive treats like the calamansi chamomile bun and ube oatmeal cream pie offer a playful, modern twist on classic island ingredients. From the striking emerald hue of a pandan-infused Basque cake to the comforting, molten warmth of a gluten-free bibingka, every bite feels like a soulful celebration of heritage and craftsmanship.
• Cheese & Board — American · rated 4/5: Cheese & Board invites guests into a realm of curated indulgence, where the art of the graze is elevated through meticulously assembled spreads tailored for intimate, shared moments. Velvety French butter and shimmering pearls of caviar serve as decadent centerpieces amidst a landscape of artisanal textures, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of slow, deliberate savoring.
• Delightful Pastries — French · rated 4/5: This charming haven welcomes guests with the irresistible aroma of buttery, golden-brown crusts and a vibrant mosaic of artisanal hors d'oeuvres. Crispy, spinach-filled phyllo and earthy mushroom turnovers share the stage with velvety truffled deviled eggs and bright caprese bites, each morsel meticulously crafted to deliver a burst of sophisticated flavor. Whether savoring a delicate mini latke or a slice of rich, savory quiche, every bite celebrates the timeless art of the perfect pastry in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• La Fournette — French · rated 4/5: This charming bakery-bistro captures the soul of Paris, where the aroma of golden, flaky croissants and hearth-baked baguettes fills a bright, welcoming space. Guests savor the crunch of a perfectly toasted Croque-Monsieur or the delicate, buttery layers of a Quiche Lorraine, complemented by vibrant bowls of Salade Niçoise and rustic loaves of artisanal beer bread. From the crackle of a fresh miche to the indulgent melt of a chocolate croissant, every bite celebrates the timeless artistry of traditional French baking.
• Flur — French · rated 4/5: Soft light dances across a minimalist landscape of pale wood and wild botanical accents, creating a serene sanctuary where the boundaries between nature and dining blur. The kitchen transforms seasonal treasures into artful, ethereal plates that celebrate delicate textures and vibrant, garden-fresh flavors, offering a tranquil escape that lingers long after the final bite.
• Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter — French · rated 4/5: This intimate Belgian bakery transports guests to the heart of Europe with the intoxicating aroma of slow-fermented dough and rich, melting butter. Masterful craftsmanship defines every shatteringly crisp croissant and hand-shaped loaf, while the signature white chocolate creations offer a decadent glimpse into the refined artistry of traditional Belgian baking.
• Southern France Patisserie — French · rated 4/5: The air is thick with the scent of toasted butter and sweet citrus, drawing visitors into a bright, artisanal space where rows of golden-brown croissants and glossy éclairs are displayed like edible jewels. From the crisp, caramelized shell of a traditional cannelé to the vibrant tang of a lemon lavender tarte, every bite captures the refined elegance and sun-drenched flavors of a classic French bakery. This inviting sanctuary offers a sophisticated retreat where guests can savor the delicate artistry of hand-crafted gateaux and buttery, flake-shattering pastries.
• Sugar Bliss Patisserie — French · rated 4/5: This charming boutique patisserie invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the scent of golden butter and Madagascar vanilla creates an immediate sense of indulgence. Handcrafted pastries and jewel-toned confections are displayed with artistic precision, offering a symphony of flaky layers and velvety creams that elevate the simple pleasure of a sweet treat into a sophisticated sensory experience.
• Le Petit Sucre — French. * Is it · rated 4/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched sanctuary feels like a brief escape to a Parisian side street, where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of caramelized sugar and golden, buttery pastry. Delicate macarons in a kaleidoscope of colors sit jewel-like behind glass cases, inviting guests to linger over flaky croissants that shatter at the first bite and perfectly pulled espressos in an atmosphere of quiet, whimsical elegance.
• The Pullman Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Evoking the golden age of rail travel, The Pullman Cafe welcomes guests into a refined space of dark woods and soft lighting where the bustle of the city fades into a distant hum. Sunlight streams through expansive windows to illuminate plates of artfully prepared bistro fare, while the rich aroma of freshly ground beans and simmering sauces promises a soulful, lingering escape from the everyday.
• Di'vino — Italian · rated 4/5: Di'vino invites guests into a spirited, sun-drenched space where the clinking of wine glasses harmonizes with the lively hum of a Mediterranean-inspired bistro. The air is rich with the scent of garlic-infused sautéed clams and spicy arrabbiata, while vibrant plates of citrus-bright ceviche and creamy burrata encourage a communal journey through bold, coastal flavors. Whether lingering over golden patatas bravas or sharing a platter of artisanal antipasto, diners find a sophisticated retreat that celebrates the art of the perfect pairing and the joy of shared small plates.
• LeFlour Cafe & Bakery — French · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this charming neighborhood haunt, where the comforting scent of buttery, golden-brown croissants and freshly pulled espresso fills the air. Artisanal loaves with crackling crusts take center stage alongside delicate, fruit-studded pastries that melt on the tongue, inviting guests to linger over a slow morning meal or a quiet afternoon treat in a warm, flour-dusted sanctuary.
• La Pâtisserie P — French · rated 4/5: La Pâtisserie P invites guests into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the intoxicating scent of caramelized sugar and slow-churned butter. Meticulously crafted confections, from vibrant, jewel-like tarts to golden croissants that shatter into a thousand buttery flakes, are displayed with the precision of fine art. It is a refined retreat that celebrates the delicate balance of French technique, offering a sweet escape where every bite feels like a curated moment of indulgence.