Everest- Classic high end French food in a sophisticated atmosphere with a 40th floor view. The great steaks come with many interesting things to sprinkle on top. One of Chicago' s best, but expensive wine lists, 663-8920, 440 S. LaSalle, D, $$$$ Website
Bistronomic- A great new addition to Chicago's dwindling French restaurant options. As the name implies they have bistros fare, but they have brought a more modern twist to the food. It is a nice space and the prices are fairly reasonable for the quality of the food. It work for both small groups and for a romantic dinner. A bit noisy. 312-944-8400, 840 N Wabash, $$, Website
Bistro Voltaire- Has the feel of a true Paris bistro right down to the accent of the host. Has the neighborhood feel that one looks for in a bistro. They offer the high quality, unobtrusive service found in Europe and so lacking in the U.S. Good but not exceptional food. The dauphine potatoes are amazing. A place to have to have first date or a romantic dinner with your spouse. 265-0911, 226 W. Chicago, $$ Website
Kiki's Bistro- A good value for the quality of the classic French fare. A bit out of the way but still near downtown. We always enjoy the pate. One of the best places to go for French fare. 335-5454, 900 N. Franklin, L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat, $$ Website
Bistro Margot- A reasonable priced neighborhood place with tasty food. We especially like their well priced salads. If you like bacon the bistro salad is tough to beat. 587-3660, 1437 N. Wells, L D, $$ Website
Cyrano's Bistro and Wine Bar- An intimate place to get good French fare away from the tourist crowds. We have had some very good lunches here. In the summer they have a limited menu at a temporary cafe along river. 467-0546, 546 N. Wells, L Mon-Fri, D, $$ Website
Bijan- One of the few neighborhood places in River North. A variety of tasty food that they serve late into the night.. It is a French bistros but they also have some great American based foods. They have the best meatloaf in town and a good burger. 312-202-1904, 663 N. State, $$ Website
Mon Ami Gabi- A classic Paris bistro. It is a noisy, bustling place, a bit away from downtown near the zoo. They have a wide variety of always well cooked steaks. The French onion soup is great on a cold day. The appetizers have a lot of good options like; pate, salmon and oysters. They have a nice French wine selection. 773-348-8886, 2300 N. Lincoln Park West, $$ Website