Chicago｜A Hidden French Bistro Gem 🍷

Craving that puff pastry baked escargot 🐌, I revisited Bistro Monadnock twice within a month — a newly opened French bistro that’s quickly stolen my heart! 🇫🇷 Originally hunting for liver pâté (unavailable at Le Bouchon in winter), a friend recommended this spot that opened last year. It now boasts the best escargot I’ve had in the U.S.! 🐌 Baked Escargot in Puff Pastry – An absolute must-order starter! It blends the flaky crust of a creamy clam chowder with classic baked snails — even better than traditional pesto style. The pastry is golden-crisp outside and soaked with rich, savory snail broth inside. That perfect marriage of buttery pastry and umami-rich snails… I want to come back monthly just for this! 🐣 Chicken Liver Pâté – As an offal lover (and Hannibal fan 👀), I never skip liver dishes at French restaurants. Monadnock’s pâté leans traditional — like a smooth, sliceable terrine topped with a delicate herb-truffle jelly (and maybe a hint of cranberry?). Much lighter than seared foie gras, and great for sharing with 3–4 friends. 🥩 25-Day Dry-Aged Steak – Ordered medium-rare both times. Charred nicely on the outside, tender within — though about 70% “crust-to-soft” ratio 🤔. The fries are uniquely firm — nostalgic, like childhood McDonald’s/KFC vibes! (Sorry for the blurry steak pics 😅 — will nail the close-up next time!) 🍨 Desserts: Tried île flottante and profiteroles. The first is like caramelized whipped cream, softer than a soufflé inside. Profiteroles come with gelato + warm chocolate sauce 🍫. Both highly recommended! Fair warning: Tuxedo and Sazerac are strong — maybe not for the lightweight drinkers! 🍽️ Name: Bistro Monadnock 📍 Address: 325 S Federal St, Chicago, IL 60604 📅 Reservations via Tock #FrenchCuisine #ChicagoEats #FrenchBistro #HiddenGem #VibeDining #DateNightSpot