Best Girls Night Out Approved French Restaurants in River North

Obélix is a modern French restaurant from the Poilevey brothers, pairing foie gras–centric signatures with a broader menu that filters French technique through Chicago sensibilities. The bright, checkered dining room runs on attentive service, a deep wine list, and a buzzy soundtrack that keeps the space lively rather than stuffy.

Bavette’s is a dimly lit steakhouse with clear French bistro DNA, known for dry-aged beef, classic cocktails, and a room that feels both bustling and romantic. Massive review volume and long-running popularity make it one of River North’s most reliable spots for celebratory steak-and-red-wine dinners.

A newer French bistro on Wells that blends classic technique with a seafood-leaning, Midwestern-seasonal approach from chef Jenner Tomaska. It’s a strong pick when you want a stylish room, a serious bread program, and a table of shareable plates rather than a formal, white-tablecloth meal.

Perched above Sophia Steak, Petit Pomeroy functions as a compact French bistro and champagne-focused bar with skyline views. The menu leans into onion soup, steak frites, and seafood plates that work as lighter suppers or shared snacks with cocktails.