Le Bouchon

Description
Yes, it's small, it's crowded and you'll have to wait, even with a reservation. But it's the closest thing Chicago has to a true French bistro, right down to never-fail favorites like the flaky, caramelly onion tart and butter-topped steak flanked by perfectly crisp frites. An afternoon visit might yield a shorter wait without sacrificing any of the satisfaction, with a new lunch menu featuring hearty, simple fare like a sandwich of warm brie, proscuitto, red pepper and arugula and steamed mussels with frites. Finish the meal off with an apple tart and pretend you're in Paris, minus the snooty waiters.