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Kiki's Bistro

The legendary Kiki's Bistro has been open in River North for 25 years. In order to get a sense of the authenticity of this restaurant, you need to get to know the owner. Georges "Kiki" Cuisance came to Chicago from France 50 years ago and has become a Chicago institution ever since. On July 14, 2010, Richard M. Daley proclaimed it Georges "Kiki" Cuisance Day and renamed the corner by the restaurant Rue de Kiki to honor his accomplishments and contributions to the culinary arts in Chicago. Recently, Chef Cuisance was named a 2015 Industry Legend by the Chicago Culinary Museum and inducted into the Chicago Chef's Hall of Fame. With Kiki as the owner, it is no wonder that this authentic bistro has such a loyal following. The ambiance calls to mind images of the French countryside and makes guests feel at home. Guests expect dishes that are both hearty and elegant. Start off with the traditional Salade Lyonnaise and continue with favorites like Magret de Canard or Steak au Poivre. Complement your meal with a delicious dessert like Profiteroles au Chocolat or Tarte aux Pommes. You can't go wrong at Kiki's. We are thrilled that this Chicago staple is a part of à la carte Chicago!

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Bistro Campagne

The go-to restaurant for those looking for a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, Bistro Campagne has been a favorite in Lincoln Square since 2002. Guests feel right at home when they walk through the door. With a warm, prairie décor inside and a beautiful summer garden patio outside, you can enjoy a relaxing respite from the hustle and bustle of the city any time of year. The ambiance also makes it the perfect spot for a romantic date night. Chef Adam Dittmer, executive chef since 2012, continues the late owner and Chef Michael Altenberg's legacy of sustainable cuisine. Bistro Campagne is committed to using local and organic products to make their dishes. After all, great ingredients make great food! Bistro Campagne certainly has this covered with their menu full of French bistro classics. Kick-off your dining experience with Moules à la Bière made with Belgian ale or a classic Salade Maison. Savor Poulet Rôti Forestière, naturally-raised Amish chicken, or Braised Pork Shoulder. For dessert, try the Crème Brûlée or Pain Perdu with fig and brown butter. Don't forget, you can also take advantage of the unbeatable lunch menu on weekends. Bistro Campagne continues the French bistro tradition of a comfortable environment and delicious food. We are happy that it is participating in à la carte Chicago!

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Oceanique

If you like seafood, Oceanique in Evanston is the place to go. Established in 1989 this unique French-American restaurant is known for serving the freshest, finest organic produce and seafood from sustainable, eco-friendly sources. Chef Mark Grosz, who worked for three years under Jean Banchet at Le Français, offers creative fare cooked in traditional French style with an Asian and Latin flair. Artfully prepared and presented, you will enjoy the delicate flavor and texture of high-quality seafood finished with elegant sauces and garnishes. The seafood comes from all the regions of the world, and menus change frequently. Wild Maine Day Boat Scallops, Norwegian Fjord Ocean Trout, Spanish Turbot or Bouillabaisse Oceanique Saffron Aioli are now in season and exquisite. But insiders asserts that the star dish is the lobster, which is served with generous chunks of meat with Golden Beets, Sea Beans, Basil Potato and Yuzu-Saffron. On the French side, you will also find classic offerings such as Chicken Liver Mousse and Foie Gras, and, to complement your dinner, a selection of delicious Patisseries such as Napoleon or Valhrona Chocolate-Caramel Pot de Crème. There are two ways to approach an Oceanique experience, and either way brings you an exceptional dining experience - the today's menu or the chef's 7 course tasting menu. Both offer delightful creations from a renowned Chef influenced by his experience in France and Hong Kong. In a recent interview with Chicago Tribune, Chef Grosz explained, "we're cooking in a world without borders". Welcome to the French Food Festival à la carte Chicago!

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Crêperie Saint Germain

Crêpes and France often go hand-in-hand, and the French know that when it comes to crêpes, Brittany is where it's at. Crêperie Saint Germain brings this classic Breton comfort-food to downtown Evanston. While most Americans think of crêpes as sweet, thin pancakes coated in Nutella, this simple French dish can be so much more! Crêperie Saint Germain serves both sweet crepes (made from 100% organic wheat flours) and savory crepes (made from a blend of 100% organic buckwheat and wheat flours). What kind of savory fillings do they offer? Everything! Fresh vegetables, poultry, seafood, mixed mushrooms or a combination of cheeses. Choose among their large selection of fillings such as Coq au Vin and Canard Confit. Vegetarians will love the Povençale crêpe, like Ratatouille in a crêpe, or Vegetarienne crepe, filled with polenta, mushrooms, and eggplant. For those looking for a sweeter twist, St. Germain does not disappoint. Check out the classic Au Sucre Crêpe and famous Crêpe Suzette, or indulge in a chocolate and strawberry Marquis Crêpe. Complement your meal with one of their numerous beers, ciders, or wines. If you can't get to Brittany, then a trip to Crêperie Saint Germain is the next best thing. Step inside and bask in the convivial and authentic French bistro atmosphere. You'll know you are in the right place when you see the Parisian metro map on the wall. Enjoy an appetizer, entrée, and dessert for just $20 when you mention à la carte Chicago!

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Albert de Montaubert & fils

A French producer of quality Cognacs and Armagnacs, the Albert de Montaubert & fils label was started in 2002 by Pierre Barrier. He named the company after his great-grandfather Albert de Montaubert who moved to the Cognac region in 1842 to pursue his passion for viticulture. Using white Ugni grapes twice distilled, expertly blended, and aged in French oak barrels, they produce a smooth and perfumed type of Brandy known as Cognac. Their Cognacs and Armagnacs have won several distinctions from the ISW International Spirit Awards. Fortunately for us, this label, already known in Europe, Russia, Canada, and China, is now available in the United States. Albert de Montaubert & fils will offer VSOP (aged for more than 4 years), 25-year and 50-year Cognacs during the Petits and Grands Bordeaux & Cognac Tasting as part of à la carte Chicago.

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Pâtisserie Coralie

Since its opening last year, this little bakery and cafe has become a favorite in downton Evanston. The brainchild of French-born Pascal Berthoumieux (who also owns Bistro Bordeaux and Crêperie Saint Germain), Pâtisserie Coralie is all about Parisian elegance. French Pastry Chef Manuel Bouillet, experienced from his work at Fauchon and Un Dimanche à Paris in Paris, ensures that each bite of your dessert is better than the last. You can often find Pâtisserie Coralie full of guests chatting with friends over coffee, enjoying a treat as they work on their laptops, or grabbing some pastries to go. Sleek chandeliers and glass cases tempt customers with pastry classics like éclairs, Napoleons, and madeleines. But the macarons are the real star here. They were recently named the "Best Macarons of the North Shore" by the French Institute of the North Shore. In addition to pastries, you can also indulge in such confiseries as marshmallows, pâté de fruit, and caramel. Looking for some savories to go with the sweets? Gorgeous croissants, quiche, and sandwiches are available all day. Don't miss the special offer from Patisserie Coralie this November. Buy 2 or more pastries, viennoiseries, or macarons and get a free Julius Meinl drip coffee when you mention à la carte Chicago. What a sweet pick-me-up!

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Bistro Voltaire

Bistro Voltaire's cozy, romantic ambiance and French bistro food creates the perfect setting for a relaxing meal out. With dark wood paneling, black and white checkered floor, and red accents, the restaurant transports you from Chicago's River North to the Paris' Rive Gauche. Take a seat at one of the tables, on the banquettes, or at the bar. A glance around the dining room reveals pictures of famous authors as well as a mural of the restaurant's namesake accompanied by a quote in French. It is the perfect setting for a date or a night out with friends. Savor the tastes of Foie Gras Maison, Magret de Canard, or Cotelettes d'Agneau as French music softly plays in the background. Don't forget to complement your meal with a nice glass of French red or white wine. Finish your evening by selecting one of the delectable desserts, like Crème Brulée and Molten Chocolate Cake. Each course at Bistro Voltaire is classic, tasty, and satisfying- exactly what you would expect from a French bistro. Francophiles, Chicagoans, and foodies alike will enjoy the traditional French food and atmosphere. Let Bistro Voltaire enlighten you during à la carte Chicago. We can't wait to try the special prix fixe menu!

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Cochon Volant

If you think you'll only be able to enjoy an affordable gourmet meal when pigs fly, then you should check out Cochon Volant- French for "flying pig." Attached to the Hyatt Centric hotel, the restaurant sets the scene for a French/American dining experience with a chic contemporary chandelier, a marble bar framed by a large mirror, and a picturesque tiled floor. During the warmer months, there is an outdoor patio seating area where you can dine and enjoy the sunshine. Cochon Volant has you covered for the any time of day. A bakery, brasserie, and bar all in one, this restaurant is open for breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner. Whether you want a Salmon Benedict or Steak Frites au Poivre, you are sure to find what you are craving. For those who love American food just as much as they love French, it also offers dishes like Fried Chicken Wings and Le Cheeseburger Royale. Don't forget to try one of the desserts to finish your meal right. Morning commuters, you can even grab a coffee and freshly baked pastry on the way, since it is conveniently located in the loop. Headed by Chef Roland Liccioni of Les Nomades and Chef Matt Ayala of Gilt Bar, Cochon Volant opened earlier this year and has already been recognized by Yahoo! Travel and Interior Design magazine. We are excited that Cochon Volant will be offering a special prix fixe menu for à la carte Chicago!

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French Pastry School

The French Pastry School of Kennedy-King College at City Colleges of Chicago is the premier international institution of pastry arts education. Superb instruction, superior equipment, and top quality ingredients enable the co-founders, Chefs Jacquy Pfeiffer and Sébastien Canonne, M.O.F., to uphold an exceptional educational facility for all things sweet and baked. The French Pastry School?s team of award-winning instructors has grown to a faculty of many renowned chefs. To celebrate the French table, the School will offer a variety of demonstrations and classes.

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Brindille

If you are looking for an intimate and refined ambiance, Brindille is the place to go. Chef Carrie Nahabedian and her cousin Michael Nahabedian set out to bring an elegant and creative Parisian dining experience to Chicago. Already the owners of the acclaimed Chicago restaurant NAHA since 2000, they decided to open Brindille (pronounced braun-DEE) in River North in 2013. The name Brindille means "twig" or "little branch" and is symbolic of new growth. It is famous for its French-inspired fare and eye-catching presentations. You can expect spectacular dishes such as Roast Quail and Guinea Hen, Lobster Brindille (scented with Burgundy truffles, of course), and Veal Sweetbreads. There is a large selection of desserts, wines, and cocktails in addition to the main menu. Choose from over 100 bottles of wines on the wine list and indulge in a beautifully elegant dessert crafted by Pastry chef Craig Harzewski. To add to its splendor, Brindille has also received several awards. It was named the Best New Restaurant in Chicago in 2013 by Phil Vettel of the Chicago Tribune and received the 2015 James Beard award for Outstanding Restaurant Design. You can experience a special two-course menu at Brindille during à la carte Chicago!

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Bistrot Zinc

Located only a block from Lake Michigan in the Gold Coast, Bistrot Zinc serves all the French classics. This restaurant gets its name from its bar that is handmade from zinc, since a French bistro's bar is a popular meeting place for good food and friendly conversation. Bistrot Zinc certainly brings this tradition to Chicago. It is the perfect stop for French food lovers, Gold Coast shoppers, or hungry passers-by. The eye-catching red and black exterior and large front windows draw you in. Plus the restaurant's atmosphere does not disappoint; with yellow walls, mosaic tiled floor, and tin ceilings it is as warm and comfortable as you feel after a delicious French meal. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, Bistrot Zinc offers Moules Marinières, Escargot BZ, Steak Frites, and Poulet Grand Mère roasted chicken just like grandmother used to make. The brunch menu features French favorites such as Brioche French Toast, Quiche du Jour, and Croque Monsieur. Much of Bistrot Zinc's popularity can be attributed to its seasonal menu crafted by Chef Tim Kirker. "Les Saveurs" change each month from Yellow Watermelon with Feta in the summer to Savory apple tart in the winter. This specialty menu ensures that there is something for everyone. À la carte Chicago is excited to welcome this 18-year-old bistro to our celebration!

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Southern France Pâtisserie

What started as an online French pastry business for Chef Amanda Tommey Terbush evolved into a physical store that opened last June. Southern France Patisserie brings both French pastries and Southern hospitality to Chicago's Uptown neighborhood. With a giant chalkboard, decorative plates, and white-painted brick walls, the patisserie is as charming, lovely, and welcoming as the name promises it to be. Chef Terbush grew up in Columbus, Georgia where she comes from a family of great bakers and cooks. She discovered her love for everything chocolate once she moved to Chicago- working in a chocolate shop, attending the French Pastry School in Chicago, and spending time at the Chocolate Academy. This combination of her Southern background and French training bring us the patisserie she owns today! From traditional pastries like Madeleines and Eclairs to regional specialties like Cannele from Bordeaux, Southern France Patisseries pays homage to the classics. However, it never forgets to add a little southern flare with buttermilk biscuits and pecan tarts. In addition to the in-store delicacies, Chef Terbush also offers the option of customer orders beyond the usual menu. Southern France Patisserie has plenty of treats and friendliness in store and we are thrilled that it is participating in à la carte Chicago!

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Alliance Française de Chicago

As the oldest and largest French organization in Chicago, the Alliance Française could not be happier to be a part of the à la carte Chicago committee. For almost 120 years, the Alliance Française de Chicago has been a leading and innovative reference in the world of language teaching and cultural programs. Through our classes and events, we promote the culture of French-speaking countries while reinforcing and developing ties between Francophones and local communities. This is why we are so proud to be at the very heart of the Franco-American community here in Chicago. So what better way to continue and expand our mission than to help bring the art of living and the French table right to our fellow Chicagoans? We can only hope that you are as thrilled as we are to take part in one or more of the 18 unique events we have put together with our wonderful partners and participating restaurants. Whether you plan on attending a cooking class, a demo, a wine tasting or simply enjoying one of the delicious menus offered throughout the city, we count on you to help us make this first à la carte Chicago week a success and a staple of the Chicago food landscape for the years to come. Au revoir et à bientôt at the Alliance Française de Chicago - 810 North Dearborn Street - Chicago, Illinois 60610 - 312.337.1070

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French American Chamber of Commerce

Passport to France is a night-long tribute to Chicago's finest French gourmet chefs, products, wines, spirits, and entertainment. Organized by the French-American Chamber of Commerce (FACC) in Chicago, the 31st edition of Passport to France reflects our desire to make you discover restaurants from Chicago but also bring to light the French heritage and influences in contemporary American cuisine, products, wines and spirits. More than 50 restaurants & vendors are part of Passport to France and showcase their savoir-faire. You can walk through our vendors' stations and taste some specialties designed for you. At Passport to France you can pair your wine with exquisite dishes prepared by the participating Chefs & restaurant, as for 2015: Foie Gras & Apple Cobbler, Lobster Scrambled Eggs, Braised Pulled Pork with Bordelaise sauce... Of course, a French Cuisine event wouldn't be complete without a large selection of cheeses, breads, and patisseries. Taste amazing cheeses with black truffle mustard, or indulge in the height of French patisserie sophistication by tasting our Armagnac chocolate cake, designed exclusively for Passport to France! You will enjoy a selection of exclusive wines from some of the best vineyards in France and in the United Stated as well as exceptional French spirits. These spirits were imported directly from France, hand-picked and highly-regarded. At Passport to France you will have the honor to first taste the Beaujolais Nouveau 2015! Passport to France is the Closing Night of the first edition of à la carte Chicago, a celebration of contemporary French food, wine, and art of living. This is an annual festival that is designed to excite and inspire food lovers of all ages and will continue to shape the natural attraction for food & gastronomy of Chicago. Passport to France is the main fundraising event for FACC-Chicago anon-profit and non-governmental organization. Funds generated by the event go toward our mission to foster and develop a thriving relationship between the French and American business community. WHEN: Thursday November 19th, 2015 | VIP tickets: 6:00 pm - All guests: 7:00 pm WHERE: Union League Club of Chicago | 65 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604 MORE INFORMATION: http://www.facc-chicago.com/events/passport-to-france-2015/ #Pass2France2015 There will be no registration at the door, please register online: Click here

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Bistro Bordeaux

Inspired by the international wine capital, Bistro Bordeaux is a popular destination for French wine (and food!) lovers in downtown Evanston. Owner Pascal Berthoumieux, who hails from the Bordeaux region himself, has brought the authentic French dining experience to Chicagoland. The cherry wood accents, burgundy velvet curtains, and leather banquets create a vintage, elegant, and inviting ambiance. In this 80-seat restaurant, diners savor regional dishes, such as Salade Lyonnaise, and the classics, like Escargots de Bourgogne and Steak Tartare. Berthoumieux also presents a weekly cheese selection served with seasonal fruit compote. Of course, when at Bistro Bordeaux, you cannot pass up a glass (or bottle) of wine from the extensive wine list. In addition to the lunch and dinner menu, Bistro Bordeaux is also open for Sunday brunch. Owner Berthoumieux explains, "I see this as an authentic boutique bistro, something that is individual, unique and cannot be duplicated." Don't miss out on this singular dining sensation during à la carte Chicago!

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Le Petit Paris

Located in Streeterville, Le Petit Paris is the ultimate old-school French bistro. The restaurant is the brainchild of Chef/Owner Alain Sitbon who began his culinary career in Chicago more than 30 years ago. Sitbon longed for the day when he would own his very own French restaurant; in 2002, he achieved this dream with the opening of Le Petit Paris. Diners are greeted by a beautiful mural painted by Alain's wife Betty. Once seated, guests can expect the very best of traditional French cuisine. The menu includes classics such as Filet Mignon au Poivre, Gratinée D'Oignons and Boeuf Bourguignon. The secret to these delicious dishes' Fresh ingredients! Chef Sitbon makes daily trips to the market to buy the best he can find. Complete your evening by enjoying one of Chef Sitbon's house-made desserts. Rick Kogan (Chicago Tribune) said of Le Petit Paris, "There is great comfort to be had in the traditional and to know that the city still has secret little places, like this gem, just awaiting your discovery." In celebration of à la carte Chicago, Le Petit Paris will be serving a prix fixe menu designed by Chef Sitbon. We are excited to welcome Le Petit Paris to our team!

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Angelina

For more than two decades, Angelina Ristorante has been serving timeless Italian classics to Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood. Guests are drawn to the restaurant's warm and cozy Tuscan ambiance with yellow-hued walls, red curtains, and dark wood. Angelina Ristorante's friendly staff and generous portion sizes make you feel right at home. Chef Fred Ramos cooks favorites such as Pasta Pomodoro, Fettuccine Primavera and Eggplant Parmesan complemented by delectable Italian desserts including Tiramisu, Sorbetto, and Gelato. Although the classics are always delicious, don't forget to check out the daily and seasonal specials! Angelina Ristorante is a neighborhood staple not only for its home cooked Italian dinners but also for its weekend brunch. Weekly specials include half price wine nights on Monday and 20% off the entire bill for Lakeview residents on Wednesday. This November, Angelina Ristorante is going beyond the Italian border to craft a French prix fixe menu for à la carte Chicago. You can enjoy French dishes like Pear, Roquefort and Endive Salad, Coq au Vin, and Fruit Tart with a glass of Beaujolais nouveau. We hope you are as excited as we are!

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