Le Bouchon – A Classic French Bistro in Chicago 🇫🇷✨

The word bouchon in French can mean a cork, straw, or branch — traditionally referring to the straw or branch sign hanging outside old taverns, later evolving into a term for cozy, casual bistros. True to its name, this spot south of Bucktown focuses on tradition and homestyle flavors. The restaurant is small and reservations are hard to come by, but 6 bar seats are available for walk-ins. It’s owned by the same team behind Obelix, but in my opinion, it’s even tastier and feels less commercialized. 🥖🍷 🇫🇷 Pâté en Croûte – A must-order for traditional French dining! Unlike pan-seared foie gras, this classic preparation resembles a savory pastry filled with foie gras, figs, and pistachios, wrapped in a flaky crust. The best I’ve had in Chicago — not too rich, not gamey, with bursts of fig jam and pistachio in every bite! Obelix’s version is bland by comparison, and Les Nomades serves too small a portion. 🇫🇷 Escargots – Above average, though not mind-blowing. 🇫🇷 Salad Lyonnaise – Highly recommended! Comes with a poached egg and crispy lardons. 🇫🇷 French Onion Soup – Very traditional, loaded with melted cheese and a thick slice of bread soaked in the savory broth 🇫🇷 Mains: 🐟 Trout – Prepared similarly to Beef Wellington — tender, lightly smoked trout wrapped in puff pastry. Seasoning and texture are perfect! Obelix has this dish too, but Le Bouchon’s portion is larger. 🥩 Steak – Well-seasoned but slightly overcooked (arrived medium, though still tender). 🍗 Half Chicken – Decent, but for amazing chicken in Chicago, I’d still go to Ciccio Mio. 🇫🇷 Desserts: 🍮 Maple Crème Brûlée & 🍫 Chocolate Tart – Both recommended! The chocolate tart surprised me — firmer than expected, with a hint of orange zest, and shaped almost like a pizza. A feast for the eyes and palate! 📍 Though the area near the Damen Blue Line might seem a bit lively, the restaurant itself is in a safe spot. 📅 Reservations: OpenTable releases tables 6 weeks in advance for weekend dinners. Last-minute bookings are tough, but you can try walking in for bar seats. They also serve weekend brunch (pretty good, but not exceptional). 💰 Price: Dinner runs about $50/person without drinks for a filling meal, $70 if you want to feast! #ChicagoEats #ChicagoFoodFinds #ChicagoLife #ChicagoTravel #FrenchBistro #FoieGras