Chicago is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, and one dish that stands out is French onion soup. This hearty soup is topped with melted cheese and crusty bread, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
But with so many restaurants offering their own take on this classic dish, it can be difficult to know where to go for the best French onion soup in town.
Thankfully, as a local, I have done the research and can guide you to the top spots. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, Chicago has no shortage of places to indulge in this savory soup. But what makes the perfect French onion soup?
Is it the broth, the cheese, or the bread? The answer is all of the above. A great French onion soup should have a rich and flavorful broth, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy slice of bread to soak it all up.
So, whether you're a longtime resident of Chicago or a visitor looking for the best French onion soup in town, keep reading for my top recommendations.
I’ve scoured the city to find the most delicious and satisfying bowls of French onion soup, and I can’t wait to share them with you. Get ready to warm up on a chilly day with these top picks for French onion soup in Chicago.
1. Maple & Ash
Maple & Ash is a posh steakhouse and seafood eatery that serves French onion soup.
The soup is rich and flavorful, with a beautiful presentation. The ambiance is chic and upscale, perfect for a fancy night out.
The service is attentive and friendly, making the dining experience even better.
If you're looking for a high-end restaurant to enjoy French onion soup, Maple & Ash is definitely worth checking out.
2. Le Bouchon
Le Bouchon is a cozy French bistro that serves up delicious French onion soup. The broth is incredibly flavorful and will leave you wanting more.
The restaurant is small and can get crowded, but the quaint decor adds to the charm.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.
If you're in the mood for some classic French cuisine, Le Bouchon is definitely worth a visit.
3. Mon Ami Gabi
Mon Ami Gabi is a charming French bistro that offers some of the best French onion soup in town.
The soup is rich and flavorful, topped with a generous amount of melted Gruyere cheese. The restaurant also serves other French classics like steak frites and escargots.
The atmosphere is lively and the service is excellent.
Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a casual night out with friends, Mon Ami Gabi is the perfect spot for a delicious French meal.
4. Boeufhaus
Boeufhaus is a French steakhouse restaurant that serves excellent French onion soup. The soup is rich, flavorful, and topped with a generous amount of melted cheese.
The restaurant has a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, and the service is prompt and efficient. While the prices are on the higher side, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience make it worth the cost.
If you're in the mood for some delicious French onion soup, Boeufhaus is definitely worth a visit.
5. Wilde Bar & Restaurant
Wilde Bar & Restaurant is a literary-themed Irish pub that serves up tasty American bar fare.
While the menu offers a variety of delicious options, the French onion soup is a standout dish.
The soup is rich and flavorful, with a perfectly toasted bread and gooey melted cheese on top.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make Wilde Bar & Restaurant a great spot for a casual meal with friends or a cozy date night.
6. Bistro Campagne
Bistro Campagne is a charming upscale bistro that offers seasonal French cuisine. The restaurant is known for its delicious French onion soup, which is a must-try for anyone visiting.
The warm and cozy ambiance of the restaurant makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The attentive and friendly staff ensure that every guest has a memorable dining experience.
Bistro Campagne is a great spot for those who appreciate good food and a relaxing atmosphere.
7. Cherry Circle Room
Cherry Circle Room is an elegant supper club and cocktail bar that offers a refined menu of American cuisine.
The French Onion Soup is a must-try dish, with a crock full of rich broth and plenty of cheese.
The dimly lit atmosphere and wooden features make for a cozy and intimate dining experience.
The attentive waitstaff and reasonable prices add to the overall appeal of this hidden gem.
8. Chez Joel Bistro Francais
Chez Joel Bistro Francais is a must-visit spot for those who love French onion soup. The soup is rich, savory, and packed with flavor.
The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with excellent service. The menu offers a variety of French dishes that are all deliciously prepared.
The mussels are a must-try when they are in season. The dessert menu is equally impressive, so don't skip it.
If you're looking for a great French meal with amazing soup, Chez Joel Bistro Francais is the place to be.
9. Pierrot Gourmet
Pierrot Gourmet is a French bistro that serves up a delicious french onion soup.
The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable with friendly staff. The portions are large and tasty, making it a great stop for lunch or dinner.
The bakery also looks tempting with a variety of treats.
The restaurant is recommended for those looking for a satisfying meal and a welcoming environment.
10. Les Nomades
Les Nomades is a fine dining French restaurant that serves a delectable French onion soup. The soup has a rich and savory taste with a perfect balance of cheese and onions.
The presentation is impeccable, served in a traditional crock with a crispy baguette on the side.
The ambiance of the restaurant is elegant and romantic, perfect for a special occasion or a date night.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensures a memorable dining experience. Les Nomades is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates high-end French cuisine.
11. Obelix
Obelix is a French-American restaurant that serves up some of the best French onion soup in town. The soup is rich, flavorful, and topped with a generous amount of melted cheese.
The menu also features a variety of other French-inspired dishes, including steak frites and escargot.
The service is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The restaurant has a trendy atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two. If you're a fan of French cuisine, Obelix is definitely worth a visit.
12. Bistronomic
Bistronomic is a modern French bistro that serves up creative and delicious dishes.
Their french onion soup is a standout, with rich flavors and perfectly caramelized onions.
The cozy and stylish atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience. The service is top-notch, making for a memorable visit.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great bowl of French onion soup.
13. Brass Tack
Brass Tack is a must-visit for anyone looking for amazing French onion soup. The soup is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of savory broth and melted cheese.
The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant complements the soup perfectly and adds to the overall dining experience.
The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, making sure that every customer is satisfied with their meal.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, Brass Tack is definitely worth a visit for their delicious French onion soup.
14. Bandol Brasserie Raw Bar
Bandol Brasserie Raw Bar offers a delightful French onion soup that is a must-try for anyone who loves this dish.
The soup is rich, flavorful, and served with the perfect amount of cheese and bread.
The restaurant itself is beautiful and has a Parisian feel to it, making for a great dining experience.
The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall pleasant atmosphere. If you're in the mood for French cuisine, Bandol Brasserie Raw Bar is definitely worth a visit.
15. Taureaux Tavern
Looking for a place with amazing French onion soup in town, Taureaux Tavern is a must-visit.
The ambiance, service, and food quality are all top-notch, making it a great place for lunch or dinner. The prices are reasonable, given the atmosphere and quality of food.
The restaurant itself has a modern decor, with a large central bar and TVs. The menu features classic French fare, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great French onion soup in town.
16. Brasserie by C&C
Brasserie by C&C is a hidden gem that offers some of the best French onion soup in the city, with a perfect balance of tender onions, savory broth, and melted cheese on top.
The menu also features inventive and tasty dishes, from chicken cassoulet to foie gras croquets, and the service is always friendly and attentive.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Brasserie by C&C is sure to satisfy your cravings for French cuisine.
