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Chez Joël is a charming French bistro in Chicago's Little Italy, known for its authentic French cuisine and romantic atmosphere. The restaurant has received high praise for its attentive service, cozy ambiance, and delicious dishes. Many patrons recommend trying the escargots, coq au vin, and crème brûlée. The outdoor patio is a highlight during warmer months, offering a delightful dining experience. Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

Experience Authentic French Charm at Chez Joël

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Little Italy, Chez Joël invites food lovers and culture seekers alike to savor the essence of Southern French cuisine. This quaint, family-owned bistro masterfully blends traditional French flavors with an intimate and romantic atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic taste of France in the Windy City.

Unforgettable Dining Experience with French Flair

Chez Joël is celebrated for its delicious and thoughtfully prepared dishes such as escargots à la bourguignonne, coq au vin, and crème brûlée. Guests relish the perfectly seared scallops, fresh ceviche, and the addictive pomme frites that complement every meal. Whether you're enjoying a cozy dinner inside or basking in the intimate ambiance of the lush outdoor patio during warmer months, each visit promises a memorable culinary journey.

 ensure that every guest feels welcomed without being overwhelmed, enhancing the relaxed yet refined vibe of this charming bistro.

Amenities and Features to Enhance Your Visit

Dine-in with elegant French dishes and excellent wine selection

Outdoor seating on a romantic and lush patio for a serene dining experience

Takeout and delivery options for enjoying French cuisine at home

Valet parking and street parking options to make your visit hassle-free

Wheelchair accessibility ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all guests

What are the operating hours of Chez Joël?

 Chez Joël operates Monday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays.

 Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly at (312) 226-6479.

Is there parking available at Chez Joël?

 Valet parking is available for $7 during dinner hours.

Does Chez Joël offer takeout or delivery?

 Yes, Chez Joël offers takeout and delivery services.

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

 — Locals and visitors alike rave about Chez Joël’s delightful French cuisine, warm service, and charming ambiance. This gem in Chicago’s Little Italy consistently earns praise for its fresh, flavorful dishes and romantic patio setting, making it a top choice for French dining experiences in the city.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, Chicago, Chez Joël is a charming French bistro that transports diners straight to France with its exquisite cuisine and warm ambiance. The moment you step inside, the inviting decor, reminiscent of a quaint Parisian café, envelops you in a cozy embrace. The aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces wafts through the air, promising a culinary experience that is both authentic and delightful.

Chez Joël is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of French culture and cuisine. With a menu that features a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, every meal is a journey through the flavors of Southern France. Whether you're indulging in the perfectly seared scallops or the rich, savory rack of lamb, each dish is crafted with precision and passion.

Among the standout dishes, the escargot is a must-try, prepared with garlic butter and herbs, offering a delightful burst of flavor that melts in your mouth. For those seeking something heartier, the rack of lamb, served with a medley of seasonal vegetables, showcases the chef's skill in balancing rich flavors with fresh ingredients. Pair your meal with a glass of fine French wine, and you have a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.

Chez Joël is renowned for its intimate atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. The outdoor seating area is particularly enchanting during warm evenings, adorned with twinkling lights that create a magical ambiance. Additionally, the attentive staff ensures that every guest feels welcomed and valued, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Chez Joël is celebrated for its authentic French cuisine, particularly its escargot and rack of lamb, which are favorites among diners.

This bistro offers a unique dining experience with its intimate setting and exceptional service, making it perfect for special occasions.

Chez Joël offers valet parking as well as free and paid street parking options for guests.

Whether you're a local or just visiting Chicago, Chez Joël promises a memorable dining experience that will leave you craving more. Come savor the flavors of France and create lasting memories with friends and loved ones. We invite you to join us for a meal that transcends the ordinary.

Quaint, family-owned bistro serving upscale Southern French cuisine & wine by the bottle or glass.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQa3BTNEl3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJB11Kt-MsDogRdRcKFaGscAI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQa3BTNEl3EAE

Delightful French bistro. A place that brings France to you! You’ll savor each dish while sipping excellent French wines in a beautifully decorated atmosphere with staff who are attentive, friendly, and not overbearing. High praises from everyone at my table!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmbkwtRllREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJB11Kt-MsDogRdRcKFaGscAI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmbkwtRllREAE

What a wonderful place! Went before seeing Les Mis downtown and it was the perfect spot. Tried escargot for the first time and could've had 100 more. Everything was beyond delicious, fresh, hot, etc. Can't wait to go again.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNHBqUjNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJB11Kt-MsDogRdRcKFaGscAI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmNHBqUjNnRRAB

This was the second time I came to Chez Joël. The first experience was good with both food and service. I remember thinking I would like to come back and try a few more things on the menu. Unfortunately it took me almost a year to come back, and that was a mistake! I wish I had come back sooner! This place is amazing! The service was great both times! The food options are good and they taste so good as well! They had a rack of lamb as one of the specials this time around and let me tell you, DELICIOUS. It was served with mashed potatoes, asparagus, carrots and mushrooms! The vegetables were phenomenal. I could have had 5 more servings of them. (But I'm glad I didn't because I left sufficiently full, if I had more I would have had a hard time getting home from being TOO full 😬) The potatoes were good too but were definitely the weakest part of the dish, not in a bad way but something has to take that spot. The flavor of the lamb was so good and cooked perfectly. I was pleasantly surprised with how much meat was there too! I've been to some places with small lamb portions and this was not that!
The bread that came out before the meal was nice since I was pretty hungry coming in. The bread came with butter and some kind of spread (unsure exactly but I think olive base?) that was quite delicious. I ordered two drinks, the Dentelle and the Brulant potion. Both were good, I'm more of a cognac person so I liked the Dentelle more. I tried some of the ravioli my spouse got and it was pretty delicious too! We finished the meal with a dessert. Which rounded the meal out perfectly. Chez is now cemented in my top 3 personal favorite restaurants I've been to so far in Chicago. For me I legitimately would give it a 10/10. IF I HAD to knock a few points off because nothing is "perfect" I'd still have to go 9.5-9.8 and say it COULD be a little bigger inside. It  doesn't feel cramped or anything but the tables felt a little closer to each other than a lot of restaurants in West loop where I usually eat. Really not an issue for me but just something I noticed and that's me being very nit picky. I love this place

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiNmYybGV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJB11Kt-MsDogRdRcKFaGscAI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiNmYybGV3EAE

Remarkable, Memorable, Delicious and Absolutely French.   Highs:  Froglegs, Brie plate, Scallops, Goat Cheese Salad , & Burger.   All three deserts were impeccable!

Industrious and friendly service.

Opportunities:  Halibut special was good but a wee bit dry.  Water service was fine but they need to hire +2-4 staff just for table service.

We will come back!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYZ2JIczNRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJB11Kt-MsDogRdRcKFaGscAI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYZ2JIczNRRRAB

Chez Joel is a charming slice of France tucked away in Chicago.

The ambiance of their patio is so romantic. It’s intimate, lush, and full of character, making for a relaxing dinner.

As for the food, Chez Joel does not disappoint. The scallops were perfectly seared and tender, buttery and beautifully presented. The ceviche had a wonderful brightness and tang, with just the right amount of citrus kick. The beet salad brought a sweet earthiness. The grilled calamari had an amazing pesto flavor. And, of course, the pomme frites—crispy, golden, and addictive—were the perfect complement to everything on the table.

Chez Joel reminds me of a neighborhood French bistro. Highly recommend if you’re in the mood for French cuisine with an awesome patio.

Chez Joël: Best French Bistro in Little Italy, Chicago

Chez Joël is a family-operated French bistro located in Chicago's Little Italy, offering traditional French cuisine in a charming setting.

Chez Joël: A Charming French Bistro in Chicago's Little Italy 

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's historic Little Italy neighborhood, Chez Joël has been delighting diners since its establishment in 1998. This family-owned French bistro offers an intimate and authentic experience for those seeking upscale Southern French cuisine, expertly paired with a curated selection of wines by the bottle or glass. Over the years, Chez Joël has become a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike who crave the warm atmosphere and classic flavors reminiscent of a Parisian neighborhood eatery.

Founded at the close of the 20th century, Chez Joël opened its doors in 1998, quickly establishing itself as a neighborhood gem in Little Italy. The restaurant's dedication to authentic French culinary traditions and a cozy yet refined ambiance has garnered it a loyal following over the decades. A significant milestone was reached in 2022 when the establishment earned the prestigious MICHELIN Plate recognition, a testament to its consistent quality and commitment to delivering classic French dishes with finesse and flair.

Chez Joël’s charm lies in its seamless blend of tradition and comfort. The ambiance is thoughtfully designed to evoke the intimate feel of a French bistro, making every meal a special occasion. Guests often praise the attentive yet unobtrusive service and the beautifully decorated setting that transports you to the heart of France without leaving Chicago. The menu offers a wonderful array of Southern French classics that cater to discerning palates, with dishes prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

 - Opening its doors in Chicago's Little Italy, bringing authentic French flavors to the neighborhood.

 - Acknowledging its quality and dedication to classic French cuisine.

Whether you are a foodie exploring Chicago's vibrant dining scene or someone who appreciates the timeless appeal of French gastronomy, Chez Joël offers a memorable dining experience. Its combination of authentic flavors, refined yet inviting atmosphere, and a rich history deeply rooted in the local community makes it a standout choice for an unforgettable meal.

Experience Authentic French Dining in Little Italy

Chez Joël captures the essence of a traditional French bistro, with every detail curated to transport you to the streets of Southern France. From the carefully crafted dishes to the welcoming ambiance, it encapsulates the spirit of family-owned hospitality combined with culinary artistry. This gem in Chicago’s Little Italy continues to thrive, enchanting guests with its timeless appeal and commitment to excellence.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

Chez Joël

Live Music

Allows Dogs

Reservable

Chez Joël is a quaint, family-owned bistro located in Chicago's Little Italy, offering upscale Southern French cuisine and a selection of wines by the bottle or glass. The restaurant features a warm atmosphere and a menu that artfully blends classic French dishes with modern twists, making it a culinary gem in the vibrant neighborhood.

Chez Joël offers a selection of traditional French dishes, including starters, main courses, and desserts, crafted with well-chosen ingredients to create exceptional French cuisine.

Escargots à la Bourguignonne

Bouillabaisse Marseillaise

Crème Brûlée

Filet Mignon de Bœuf Grillé au Jus de Cuisson

Coq au Vin à la Mode Rustique à Ma Façon

Magret et Confit de Canard, Sauce à l'Orange

Linguine aux Fruits de Mer

Ravioli au Courge

Risotto aux Asperges et Champignons

Pommes Frites

Pommes Purée

Galette de Pommes de Terre

Ratatouille

Épinard à l'Ail

Haricots Verts

Champignons

Dinner Menu

At Chez Joël, nestled in Chicago's Little Italy, diners are invited to indulge in authentic French cuisine that captures the charm and elegance of a classic French bistro. The menu offers a delightful progression from carefully crafted starters to sumptuous mains, finishing with exquisite desserts, all complemented by a fine selection of drinks and special dishes.

Begin your dining experience with a variety of classic and inventive French appetizers that awaken the palate. Highlights include the iconic Soupe à l'Oignon Gratinée, a rich French onion soup crowned with melted cheese, and the Soupe du Jour, changing daily to showcase seasonal ingredients.

Salade Maison: Organic mixed greens, Granny Smith apple, roasted walnuts with house vinaigrette

Salade d'Endive: Crisp endive, mustard vinaigrette, Roquefort cheese, pecans, and Granny Smith apple

Calamar Grillé au Pistou et Jus de Citron: Grilled calamari with pesto, arugula, and roasted peppers

Escargots à la Bourguignonne: French snails cooked with garlic butter, Pernod, and herbed breadcrumbs

Cuisses de Grenouilles à la Provençale: Tender frogs' legs sautéed with garlic, spinach, and butter

The mains at Chez Joël celebrate the best of Southern French culinary traditions with dishes cooked to perfection, brimming with robust flavors and fresh ingredients. From succulent meats to seafood delights, each plate tells a story of French elegance.

Filet Mignon de Bœuf Grillé au Jus de Cuisson: Beef tenderloin with thyme jus, garlic mousseline, roasted shallots, four mushrooms, vegetable fricassé, and mashed potatoes

Entrecôte Grillé au Beurre Maître d'Hôtel: 12oz ribeye steak grilled and topped with garlic butter, served with roasted vegetables and crispy pommes frites

Magret et Confit de Canard, Sauce à l'Orange: Seared duck breast and duck leg confit paired with wild mushrooms, red cabbage, beets, poached pear, sweet potatoes, butternut squash croquettes, and cranberry orange sauce

Bouillabaisse Marseillaise: A flavorful seafood stew with an assortment of fresh seafood and a rich bouillabaisse broth accompanied by julienne vegetables

Ravioli au Courge: Butternut squash ravioli draped in a luscious garlic cream sauce with grilled butternut squash, pecans, and a drizzle of truffle oil

An array of impeccable desserts provides the perfect finale to your meal, expertly balancing sweetness and texture to leave a lasting impression of French culinary artistry.

Chez Joël complements its exquisite menu with an excellent selection of French wines by the bottle or glass, artisanal cocktails, and coffee, perfect for savoring alongside your meal in a beautifully decorated atmosphere.

Seasonal specials such as the succulent rack of lamb served with mashed potatoes, asparagus, carrots, and mushrooms highlight Chez Joël’s dedication to fresh, flavorful dishes that celebrate the bounty of the season and delight guests with every bite.

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Chez Joël in Chicago's Little Italy. Experience mouthwatering dishes in a charming atmosphere. Book your table now!

Dine at Chez Joël: Little Italy, Chicago's Italian Gem

Cook County

Valet parking is available for $7 during dinner hours.

Valet Parking

The restaurant is available for private parties; contact them for more information.

Private Parties

A full bar with an exceptional wine list is available.

Full Bar

Outdoor patio dining is available during warmer months.

Patio Dining

Chez Joël: A Taste of Southern France in Chicago's Little Italy District 

Nestled at 1119 West Taylor Street in the charming Little Italy neighborhood of Chicago, 

 atmosphere where every dish is a celebration of fresh, upscale cuisine and fine wine. This family-owned gem blends the rustic charm of France’s culinary traditions with Chicago’s dynamic dining scene, offering a truly memorable experience for food lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.

Chez Joël’s menu is a masterclass in French gastronomy, featuring standout dishes like perfectly seared scallops, buttery and tender with a beautiful presentation, and the indulgent escargot that's so irresistible you might wish for endless servings. The specials often include exquisite options like rack of lamb served with mashed potatoes, asparagus, carrots, and mushrooms — each element prepared to highlight rich, authentic flavors. Classic offerings such as frog legs, goat cheese salad, and a decadent Brie plate demonstrate the kitchen’s dedication to traditional French cooking with a contemporary flair.

Whether you’re gearing up for a night out at downtown Chicago’s theater district or simply craving an intimate dinner, Chez Joël offers an inviting atmosphere that charms visitors from first glance. With cozy indoor seating and a lush, romantic patio area, guests can enjoy their meal while soaking in the neighborhood’s vibrant ambience. The attentive yet unobtrusive service ensures your dining experience is seamless and relaxed.

 – Enjoy a beautifully decorated French bistro setting with attentive and friendly staff.

 – An intimate, lush patio perfect for romantic dinners or relaxed evenings.

 – Convenient valet and street parking (free and paid) available nearby.

 – Enjoy an excellent selection of French wines by the bottle or glass, plus crafted cocktails that elevate your meal.

Why Chez Joël Is a Must-Visit in Chicago

From the moment you walk into Chez Joël, you’re transported to a quaint French neighborhood bistro. The combination of expertly crafted food, an inviting ambiance, and impeccable service has earned it rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a foodie eager to explore authentic French cuisine, a couple seeking a romantic evening, or a group celebrating a special occasion, this West Loop hotspot promises a memorable dining experience that’s both delicious and culturally rich.

Discover Chez Joël today and savor the flavors of France right in the heart of Chicago’s Little Italy.

Illinois

Experience authentic French cuisine at Chez Joël in Chicago's Little Italy. Enjoy romantic patio dining, exquisite dishes, and attentive service.

Chez Joël - French Bistro in Chicago's Little Italy

Discover Chez Joël, a top-rated French restaurant in Chicago. Savor escargots, coq au vin, and dessert in a cozy, romantic setting.

Chez Joël - Fine Dining & French Cuisine in Chicago

Find opening hours for Chez Joël, Chicago. Visit Chez Joël at 1119 W Taylor St for exceptional French dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Chez Joël: Best French Bistro in Little Italy, Chicago

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