Les Nomades

Considered by many as the best place for French food in Chicago, Les Nomades is quintessentially formal and French - a traditional French haute cuisine dining experience. Walk into the architecturally beautiful greystone noticing the hushed tones of quiet, murmuring table conversation, peppered with "mmms." Although Les Nomades has been setting the standard of the French dining experience since the 70's, don't expect a roster of heavily sauced, strictly rich dishes that will alarm your cardiologist. Something like artichoke terrine, petit salad, watercress purée and black garlic purée hits all the right healthful notes, too. The menu has appetizers like beautifully prepared seared Hudson Valley foie gras and silky wild mushroom soup with truffle foam; main courses like braised Wagyu beef short rib with Bordelaise sauce; plus incredible desserts, like classic soufflés, passion fruit créme brûlée and warm chocolate praline tart with roasted hazelnuts, caramel pear sauce and chocolate sorbet.