I have to agree with Reed N. here - the negative reviews are a little unwarrantedly harsh. Let me enumerate all the reasons why I love Bistro Zinc. For background information, my parents live right around the corner and this is one of their favorite neighborhood spots (in a neighborhood of easily accessible good food). They're here on average at least once every two weeks. 1. The service. The host, Michael, always greets us with a smile and seats us promptly, despite the fact that we never have a reservation. He's totally sweet and attentive, and most of the servers are pretty damn good as well. They space out a little on occasion, but Nothing major, and the bus boys are always quick about serving and clearing. 2. The ambiance. Cute and cozy. Dark enough to talk intimately, quiet enough to not have to shout to be heard. And the tables are actually not on top of each other, a real luxury these days. 3. The food. Believe me when I say I've never had a bad meal here, and I really find just about everything on the menu appealing. On my most recent visit, we tried... - Bread and butter. I know, I know, every French place and almost every dinner restaurant serves bread and butter. But the butter here is particularly good. - Green salad. Just simply dressed butter lettuce. Crisp and refreshing and light. - Salade au chevre. A goat cheese salad served with red onions and pears on a bed of mixed greens. A little too big for me, but super yummy. Great balance of flavors and even though the dressing looked a little much for me, it was just perfect. - The Mussels. A big steaming bowl of large, tender mussels in a garlic sauce. Expertly prepared and oh so delicious. - Butternut squash risotto with fried sage leaves. First of all, I love risotto. Second of all, I love butternut squash. What could have been better? The small chunks of squash in the risotto and the slight crunch of the fried sage leaves were nice touches. - Steak au poivre. Deliciously covered in pepper and cooked just to the medium rare side of rare. Yummy yummy. - Roasted vegetables. A little known secret - these potatoes, carrots, parsnips etc are actully cooked in duck fat, so don't pride yourself on being virtuous by ordering these. So good though. Totally worth it. - Profiteroles. What more can be said? Three perfect little pastries filled with ice cream and covered with chocolate sauce. Who could resist? - Almond butter cake with macerated berries. The perfect finisher to a night of good food. Warm, luscious almond butter cake served with whipped cream and the requisite berries, a delightful mouthful in every bite. Yes, we did eat way more than three people should have, but it was all so good and worth every bite. I would recommend ordering any/all of the items we tried.
(5)
Stefan J.
We celebrated Christmas Eve here this year. As a neighborhood spot, nice to have close by. Simple but complete menu with all the standard choices and a few pleasant additions as starters and mains. Nice ambiance and professional/courteous staff. We enjoyed our evening, and with the generally poor Gold Coast restaurant scene to deal with, this is one we'll continue enjoying.
(3)
Mary S.
Excellent French bistro! My husband and I have been here a handful of times and some were special occasions. The manager introduced himself our first visit and remembered us almost a year later. Recently we ate at the bar and had the to-die-for onion soup and the delicious mussels in white wine. Our bartender Lisa even surprised us at the end of dinner with a cupcake the staff had received from a near by bakery.
(5)
Jay B.
Great food, staff and this has a distinct feel of a true french restaurant. I will be returning there next time I am in Chicago.
(5)
Paul W.
Always a good option. Pleasant space, crowd pleasing menu, and prompt (though indifferent) service. French onion soup, salads and stew were good and presented nicely.
(3)
Laura H.
I'm very fortunate to have a great friend in Chicago, who always takes me to the hot spots in Chicago. Bistrot Zinc is no exception. A standard french restaurant, I got the Caesar salad, french onion soup and bloody mary. All were pretty decent, and the french onion soup was cheesy and delicious. The wait staff was very helpful and attentive, which I appreciated! The restaurant has open windows, so you can sit inside/outside. Great people watching on the busy street. The restaurant is close to the water and lots of shopping in the area as well.
(3)
Sarah J.
One of my favorite spots in the city! My family has celebrated quite a few events here, and everyone is always happy with Bistrot Zinc. If you're just stopping by for a drink and some appetizers, sit at the bar and try their delicious chips. They have the best french onion in the Chicago. The desserts are amazing.
(5)
Alex R.
Bistro Zinc, a traditional, casual French joint with friendly, attentive service, is just the kind of place I love. Its the kind of place to sit at the bar for a glass of wine and an early afternoon snack. At the same time, it's the kind of place to bring an old friend for a fun, classic, reasonable dinner downtown. As I said, service is very attentive and very friendly. When I devoured the bread, more was almost immediately brought. My server was always there when I needed them, but I never felt rushed. Simple, unobtrusive, pleasant. The food is A-OK. Nothing is particularly memorable, but the menu is filled with classics that anyone versed in French Cuisine will find perfectly acceptable. Steak frites were a little off, the steak being oddly thin and somewhat tough, and the frites being a little soggier than I would prefer. At the end of the day, the place has a relaxed charm, and that will keep me coming back.
(3)
Tory w.
I really like Bistrot Zinc. The ambiance is great - it looks just like the inside of a French cafe, which makes me yearn, but in a good way. I went there a few weeks ago with a large group on a Wednesday afternoon, so we were pretty much the only customers in the place. They were very friendly and accommodating. The food is always delicious as well. I have had lots of things on the menu - crepes, onion soup, croque monsieur, steak, and everything is good and fairly authentic. Their desserts are absolutely amazing - the chocolate mousse and chocolate cake in particular. I do feel that their prices are steeper than they should be - maybe it's the location, I don't know, but I do know that other French restaurants in Chicago have cheaper menus for the same items and the same if not better quality. Also, don't order the pear salad if you're hungry, it's tres petite!
(3)
Z D.
One of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. I always bring family and they especially love the mussels. And, as East-coasters, we're picky about shellfish. I end up drinking more wine than I expect - so I will now always go with the bottle, not by the glass (ugh, that night was expensive).
(4)
Michelle L.
This past week was my fourth time here. Every time I find the food to be French in the best way. I find the service to be perfect - not hovering but there when you need something. Our server knew the menu well, gave great recommendations on food and wine, and was attentive to the needs of our party. I wish I still lived in the neighborhood so I could go more often, but it makes it special to only go every once in a whIle.
(5)
India K.
I'm no expert of french food BUT I did grow up around New Orleans and lived there for two years. We did a fair share of french and creole dining so I had a reference point going in. FIVE STARS for sweet ambiance with cheery yellow with simple and authentic decor. It is cute! French onion soup- huh? What is all the raving about. I say 2 stars and use it as the basis of the review. If you know french onion soup this will not impress you at all. If you don't know french onion soup then you will be a happy little camper. Coq au vin- dark meat chicken on the bone, served on egg noodles. I disliked the chicken and noodles but LOVED the broth???? Tis true. I ended up sopping up the broth with bread for the meal. Here's a surprise- the margaritas are root-tootin' good---go figure!?!
(2)
Mihir P.
Bistrot Zinc should not participate in restaurant week. The service is sparse and rushed. Except for the bartender who was quite polite while we waited for our seats. The onion soup was standard, nothing special. The steak frite: steak was very thin and tough. Not very flavorful. The frite was more like deep fried potato shavings which were overcooked. No need to come back.
(2)
Marjie T.
For whatever reason, I am always drawn to restaurants with red facades. I don't know why, I just always want to eat there. So, while looking for a restaurant along Rush, I spotted Bistrot Zinc and made reservations for dinner. Even though I made the reservations about 5:30 on a Friday night, there were still plenty available for the same night. We were doing some shopping prior and as we walked by around 6:00, I was shocked to see not a single patron inside. It was completely empty. I began to second guess my choice, but we still went and by the time we went back 30 minutes later there were at least a handful of table occupied. I'm really not sure why this place was so slow. Service was awesome, the food was pretty good, and the ambiance was romantic and classy. I opted for the trout with spinach and it was good, not great. The soup of the day was carrot ginger, which was really good. My mom had the pork and apple stew which she thought was also ok. I don't frequent French restaurants often so I'm not sure how this compares, but I would recommend it.
(4)
Charlie P.
Dinner at Bistrot Zinc tonight was a disappointment. 2 Bistro steaks and pommes frites - what could be easier to deliver on for a French bistro? The pommes frites were just barely warm, rather greasy and both steaks were ordered medium rare, but served well done. Service was indifferent. Nice wine list. Nice room. Spend an extra $5 and take a cab north to Mon Ami Gabi where I've had this same dinner 100 times and have never been disappointed. I will never go back to Bistrot Zinc.
(2)
Maram K.
2 French places in one week? Who'd a thought! Did I just start this review with a number? Bistrot Zinc is very well established in ambiance and service. Normally I don't care about ambiance, but I have to point this out as I'm used to the stuffy feel when dining at French cafes (note Froggy's in highland, it was rank). Coffee was great too. I joked that it reminded me of Vegas' Paris shoppes, but I kind of meant it. And I appreciated that nostalgia. We came here for brunch upon a friend's request as it has the "best quiche" he's ever had. Brunch menu was short and sweet. My fiance got the quiche of the day (mushroom and leeks) and I got the smoked salmon benedict. The benedict was perfect. Eggs poached perfectly, plenty of smoked salmon, and a muffin that you can actually cut through without breaking out the chainsaw. It was hard having to switch plates with my fiance when we both made it halfway through our dishes. But, alas, we did. My fiance's quiche. He lied. He ate more than half! But I understood why. It was incredibly fluffy and rich and the ingredients each stood out on their own. It definitely is up there in quiches I have tasted. Great experience, a bit pricey for brunch, but with that quality of food and service, I shall return.
(4)
Sarah B.
Bistro Zinc has a great, small neighborhood feel even though it's in a high-tourist count area. The French fare gets good marks--especially the French onion soup and steak frites--as does the wine list. Service is consistent and attentive, but no more than you would expect for the area. I'm happy to go back but not sure I'd go out of my way to do so.
(3)
Lauren W.
My little haven... away from the typical Rush Street crowd. I love, love, love coming here. My favorite dish is the quiche of the day. It comes with a petite salad which is the perfect serving amount. Combine that with a nice cup of coffee and there is nothing better for those lazy weekend days.
(5)
Christine M.
If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. The food was really great. LOVED the ham and cheese sandwich. The turkey and brie cheese had a bit too much bread and too little turkey. Everyone at the table thought the 'fries' were 100 times better than the chips that were served with the turkey brie sandwich. Eggs Benedict was also a big hit, along with the spinach and brie crepe (VERY tasty). It's nice that one side of the menu is breakfast and the other is lunch. Desserts - chocolate mousse, chocolate cake with caramel sauce, creme brulee. Creme brulee was absolutely the winner. The chocolate is not as sweet as what I'm used to... The lighting was a bit too bright for my ideal ambiance, but the place was lively on a Sunday at noon. I'm not sure if that's the norm, as we were there on Mother's Day. Service was good, but they weren't overly warm and fuzzy. A 'Happy Mother's Day' with the check would have been nice :) Everyone seemed very happy with the decision to come here, though, and left very satisfied.
(4)
Stephen F.
Dinner and service were fine. I don't have any major complaints, though the pomme frites I ordered never did make it out (we didn't need them anyway). On the other hand, I have no particular raves either. Everything was fine just... not especially distinguished in any way. I see no reason to come back, but no reason to avoid Bistrot Zinc either.
(3)
Julie E.
Just like Frank says: nice and easy. I've enjoyed Bistro Zinc for years. It has a low-key, pretty bistro atmosphere, friendly and prompt service, and a small-ish menu with consistent quality food. My family's favorites: - moules in light cream sauce - authentic flavors and great for bread dripping. - French onion soup: can't go wrong. Almost everyone at the restaurant on a Wednesday evening had a mini crockpot on the table. - great salads and specials. My brother had grilled sardines and braised rabbit stew with egg noodles on a recent visit, and loved both. - great dessert menu. And definitely grab a handful of homemade thin, crispy waffle potato chips from the bar. Good, nice and easy.
(4)
Charizard B.
I LOVED Bistrot Zinc!!! The atmosphere was great- nice lighting, soft music playing, and decor that makes me think of a bistro in France. We were seated quickly (it was a Tuesday night) and all the service was prompt and attentive, but not hurrying us along. I got the roasted chicken grand-mere and my friend got the salmon with a balsamic reduction and asparagus. They were both delicious- my chicken had a nice crust and was perfectly moist and flavorful. Our food came out really quickly too. We ordered the chocolate cake for dinner and it was AMAZING. We left extremely full and very very satisfied. Somewhat pricey, but very worth it.
(5)
Andy R.
Great food, great ambiance - I laughed at the guy who wrote he didn't like the floor. And the bar is made of zinc, how cool.
(5)
Greg M.
Quality food. Don't be tempted by the basket of yummy appetizers! Save room for the main course which is so yummy, really a cute quiet place to catch up with friends!
Enjoyed a nice brunch here - great for kids (there was a baby in our group) because there isn't a whole lot of noise and people. I really enjoyed the chicken and mushroom crepe - so good and so rich! husband has the eggs benedict - great sauce but portion was quite small for Chicago standards. If you're looking for a place in the tourist district, I can recommend this place! Will be back for dinner sometime!
(4)
Sian C.
My favourite everyday French bistro in the city. The steak frites is very good and my husband had the croque Monsieur and lived it
(4)
Nancy P.
What a charming French restaurant ! I really enjoyed the neighborhood feel, ambiance and the warm welcome from the staff. It was my first visit, and I was impressed with the flavors of the entrees (and my dining companions) . We all loved the place!
(5)
Aurore L.
Where do two French people go for a business lunch?!?!? In a French bistrot, bien sur!! I arrived a little early, attempted an awful parking job in front of the restaurant (with tires loudly scratching the curb), moved the hell out of there to a nice spot a few feet further, ran in and sat down in a little piece of Paris while waiting for my fellow citizen. Bistrot Zinc is really spot on decor-wise...the atmosphere is quite authentic and highly reminiscent of some of the Parisian brasseries I visited in my time - minus the noise and crowd. I started to feel a little home-sick. Watching Bourdain eating wonders in Brittany the same night was not going to help much... It was cold and snowy and I should have known better than to order a salade nicoise. But it sounded damn good, and I didn't want to yield to the highly seductive but dangerous "poulet grand-mere". It would have been ideal though for a nostalgic day and this great concoction of roasted chicken, smoked bacon, potatoes, mushrooms, onions, roasted garlic and garlic-thyme jus would have fed my soul just as much as my body. But no. I had to second-take my plate when I received it to try to figure out if the chef had made a mistake and had placed a big chunk of green papier-mache on my plate. It looked.....unappetizing. I had forgotten that the tuna was 'marinated' in what I can only suppose to be herbs. Weird. Other deception: it wasn't big chunks of tuna. Just....tuna. Green tuna. Potatoes were very scarce: 3 little bites. I had much better salade nicoise, even in Wisconsin. No lie. The steak/frites of my lunch companion did look fine though, as were the profiteroles that we shared for dessert. Yep - we shared dessert on a business lunch....I guess it's the French way. I would probably give it another try if given a chance, but would go for heartier fare next time. And leave my calorie-counting books at home.
(3)
Jims L.
I don't know - I wasn't impressed, I wasn't anything, not with the decor, the food, the service, the ambiance. Cute place for brunch.
(3)
Insun M.
Pros: - Mussel appetizer: top 2 mussel plates I've ever had. Big flavorful mussels cooked just right in an amazing sauce that was perfect for dipping the crusty bread - Big portions. I hate leaving food on my plate but I was too full to finish. Cons: - The french onion soup was just ok. I love salty foods but the soup was too salty for even my taste buds. - My lamb sandwich was way too messy to eat. The lamb slices were sliced pretty thick so it was hard to keep clean with sauce, lamb, and bread crumbs all over my hands. - The chips that came with the sandwich shouldn't be called chips. They were not crispy at all but instead kind of chewy like it was taken out of the fryer too soon. Needless to say nobody at my table ate more than 1 "chip." - Service was at a bare minimum. We were never asked if we needed anything or if we enjoyed our meals but instead we had to try our best to flag our waitor down for more bread, check, etc. It could have just been our waitor though because the server for the table next to us was very friendly and accomodating to them. I'd give Bistrot Zinc another shot but for their dinner menu..and come back for the mussels!
(3)
Luis E.
Excellent french rest. Just like eating in Paris!
(5)
Dianna R.
Christmas Eve dinner out. Problem #1, you dine at a place that is so packed you think Santa my jump out of your a**. Problem #2, you dine at a place so empty EVERY waiter is staring at you so closely they could either spoon feed you your meal or rip out your eyeballs b/c they have a family too and frankly would rather tuck their kids in at night then watch your cholesterol go up a couple of points.... Happily I am proud to say that Bistro Zinc suffers from neither problem. My sister's ever-so-clever sister-in-law made a reservation for 9 on Christmas Eve for dinner here. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience. The atmosphere was lively and festive, not stuffy at all. My pino blanc was tasty as was the butternut squash risotto I split as an appetizer. My ratatouille crepe was divine and hit the spot (extra points for the goat cheese). Finally, I tried multiple desserts and they were all delightful! The only negative I could possibly say was they sat us at a long rectangular table, which wasn't as conversation friendly as say a nice big ole round table. Overall, great service, great food, Amazing and memorable Christmas Eve dinner! 5 STARS :)
(4)
Whitney G.
The best onion soup I've ever had. Not salty at all. We also got the escargot as a mistake, but it was also really really good! The best part was the crepe au poulet. Probably the best crepe I've ever had. It had a sherry cream sauce that was to die for, and the chicken was tender and moist. Perfect! Make sure you bypass all those other swinging restaurants on N State and come to this one. You won't regret it.
(5)
Brett O.
I stopped in here just due to a Groupon Now feature that they were running. Decided I should check it out since I am out of town from Seattle and yep, good choice. The wait staff is extremely well versed in the menu and how the dishes are prepared. I liked the fact that I could talk with them about the ingredients and get great recommendations. Food was very good. I had the stew of the day which was beef with a red wine gravy. The beef was fork tender and very flavorful. I would have liked just a little more robust flavor for the sauce, but the veggies were cooked perfect, not too soft like what can happen with stew. The mashed potatoes were well seasoned and the puff pastry was added for visual. Great dish overall though. I would recommend this place to any local in Chicago, or anybody visiting.
(4)
S. H.
Having been to Paris many, many times I was a bit skeptical about this French restaurant. It met my highest expectations. A most authentic experience. The atmosphere is romantic and delightful. The food was excellent. My husband's steak frites was perfectly cooked, and my beef and tomato Vol a Vent was the best stew I've ever had. Kept the left-overs for 2 days (in a cooler) and ate them when I returned home--1,000 miles away.
(5)
Dija S.
We loved this place so much we went back the next night. We sat at the bar and the service was wonderful. The bartender was funny, engaging and attentive. The atmosphere is very accessible, and so is the cuisine and the price. Appetizers range from 6-12 and I don't think I saw a dinner item that was over 25 (but don't quote me). I felt like this was the kind of place where you could really tailor your meal to be as expensive or as economical as you would like, and the wine list had breadth and depth in the range of options available. The first night, I had the tagine de legumes and my husband had the croque monsieur - very different dishes and both done perfectly. The next night, we shared the mussels which were prepared in a white wine sauce. Actually, we devoured the mussels because they were so good, and they give you this crusty french bread to shamelessly soak up the delicious white whine sauce. Yummmm.
(4)
Kirsten A.
This place is a gem in the Gold Coast. Cute, grown up decor in bright reds makes you want to sit all day. The wait staff is mature, professional, and perfectly attentive, and the food was delish. I had a yummy ham and cheese sandwich that was toasted on the outside with a french toast like quality and super yummy sorbet for dessert. The frites were a little wimpy, but that was my only complaint. Bistroit Zinc is the perfect spot for any business lunch! We came at noon and it was pleasantly empty and perfect for chatting.
(4)
Sara F.
I love this place for Sunday brunch. The food is solid, but that is not really why you come here. You can get an equally delicious brunch at LuxBar, Tavern, Yolk, etc. You come here for the quaint French cafe atmosphere. It is the perfect start to the last day of the weekend. The Croque Monsier is yummy, as is the burger with blue cheese. The Millas de Bordeaux (vanilla-cherry custard in pastry with caramel sauce) is awesome as a brunch dessert with a cup of hot coffee because it is a pastry, and therefore feels appropriate pre-noon. :) Warning: I am a huge Bloody Mary fan, but the Bloody Mary here tastes like shrimp cocktail sauce. FOR REAL. I told them this, and they replaced my drink with a glass of refreshing glass of Pinot Blanc, which was much appreciated.
(4)
James J.
Dear Zinc, Good french brunch food in the viagra triangle. I'm a sucker for a good crepe and I found one this morning! The staff seems like they are well put together and ready for a full house. It's always nice when a restaurant's environment feels clean and organized. The OJ is totally home-made fresh squeezed and our waiter assured us that everything is home-made and fresh prepared. Four stars because I wanted a few more menu items. Some places pull off a small selection for brunch, this place needs a bit more... -Jimmy J
(4)
I Love Good Foo D.
Service was okay, they can make it better by smiling when they serve. We were at this place for breakfast. We ord ered lamb sandwich- amazing, quiche that the server recommended - my friend loved it and french toast - little too sweet for my taste, but still amazing. Portion sizes look tiny but its pretty filling. I would go back maybe every few months. Its worth a try. Oh and the potato fries were amazing.
(3)
Nicki W.
Not bad. Came to Zinc tonight with a friend before catching a flick. It's funny, because I lived above the place while I was in college and never dined. Four years later, I decided it was a good idea to come on by. The wine list is pretty good so that's a plus. Since I'm on a health kick I didn't want to indulge too much. I will say, the selection was pretty small and that's never a good thing in my eyes. I like some choices because most of the time I can be pretty indecisive. They had a lovely Zucchini Soup which was very flavorful and I also had the Goat Cheese Salad with Mixed Greens which was great as well. I realize that messing up a salad is hard, but the dressing was fantastic and clearly homemade. My friend on the other hand ordered the steak (which was a mistake). She had asked the waiter if their Medium Rare was true to temperature and he said it was so she decided to order Medium. Needless to say, the steak came out Medium Well and it was a let down. We aren't the type to send things back, so she ate it, but I could tell she wasn't happy. There seemed to be a bit too much fat on the steak and it was pretty "tough". Service was good. The bussers were quick to refill our waters and when clearing the plates. I was quite surprised by how welcoming the place was. I felt cozy and I like that feeling. I'll be back to try some of the other choices on the menu as well as brunch because who doesn't love brunch?
(4)
Aaron B.
Today was the second time I've had the pleasure of eating at Bistrot Zinc. The first time was in the summer of '08 when I dined there with as friend. It was my first time eating escargot (I won't lie, we ordered it for the novelty) and once I was able to block out what it was that I was eating, it was quite delicious! I recall I also had a quiche that day and... well, I'm sure it was a wonderful quiche, but it turns out I'm not a quiche fan; it's a texture thing. Most recently I went back by myself on the day this review was written. I had the lamb sandwich for my entree and the Millas de Bordeaux (a vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce) for dessert. Hopefully I maintained a civilized facade while eating that dessert, but in actuality I was creamin' my pants. Wow. Bot times the service was wonderful; the wait staff is available to answer any questions and they're quick to buss your table when a plate is cleared. For French cuisine that won't break your bank, this is as good as it gets!
(5)
Nikki L.
First of all, I have to say, it's hard finding GOOD French Onion Soup, there have been too many times the soup has been way too salty, not enough flavor or I get melted cheese on top, but luke warm soup in the middle. Needless to say, I was hesitant to order, but decided to just go for it. I was really pleased that not only was my soup piping hot the way I like it, but it wasn't too salty and the onions were nicely caramelized, balancing out the saltiness from the cheese. The salad I had was very standard, nothing fantastic and same with the desserts. The service was a bit snobbish in the beginning, but thankfully he finally warmed up towards the end. I may only come back for the soup, but nothing else.
(3)
Jackie W.
O. M. G. I am just returning from one of the most exquisite meals I've had since I moved to Chicago a year ago. The house-made gnocchi with butternut squash (which I love!) and broccoli rabe actually made me want to shed a tear for such a light, well balanced dish. The only thing better was enjoying it with the bottle of Loire white that washed it down in an experience that can only be defined as true culinary bliss. My more health conscience friend had the grilled pork chop with swiss chard and was in equal foodie-heaven with these bites of perfection. We felt so strongly about our delightful meal that I asked Mark -- our 4 star worthy server -- to send over the manager so I could offer compliments on such an exquisite meal. (Sidebar: I asked Mark for a recommendation on both my entree & the dessert and he did an exceptional job!) Michael, one of the owners, came over right away and started discussing the preparation of our dishes and how they actually paired really well together! Of course, that meant that we started creating blissful bites by combining the cloud-like gnocchi with the tender pork. Ahhhh... such a delight! Finally, to make it even better, I asked for any dessert they would recommend and ended up with the bliss of the Millas de Bordeaux ~ heavenly phyllo dough with cherry vanilla custard. Y U M!!! My friend, who typically avoids dessert & all things sweet, was in foodie heaven right along with me upon enjoying this divine pasty. Overall, I was impressed with the menu, the knowledge of the server & friendliness of the owner, and the hands down phenomenal dance that happened directly on my taste buds tonight. I will definitely be back. Perhaps again this week. If only my time at the gym will be able to neutralize my new decadent treat. So flipping good... I'm still in foodie afterglow. :-)
(5)
Hillary L.
Sometimes you need to treat yourself- especially when you have a crepe craving. And your Chicago Plus Card jumped out of your pocket somewhere on a bus. And someone used it so you had to cancel it... AND the new one still hasn't arrived 5-7 days later. Tuesday was one of those days, and I had been eying Bistro Zinc each time I go up and down State. I think the fact that is was easy walking distance finalized the decision. I decided to sit at the bar, and Jon was very attentive, filling my water up at least 20 times because those glasses are so ridiculously small. What started out as just ordering the spinach and brie crepe (good, but too thin of a consistency for me) turned into a "I'm going to treat myself to whatever I want." So I also ordered the soup of the day (mushroom, very good and homemade, perfect consistency), a glass of red wine (Jon helped me decide, he also poured me a little bit more when I was running low and didn't charge me), and chocolate mousse (ok but I've had, and made, better). I left in a much, much better mood than when I came in. Jon the bartender was fantastic, noticing when I didn't want to chat and when I did. It seemed like two or three regulars trickled in while I was eating dinner, and he knew what to pour them and suggested what they might like to try next on the menu. Overall a fantastic experience, the crepe was a bit disappointing, which was my main reason for coming in, but I would definitely come back and try more from the menu... hopefully with my Chicago Plus Card in hand.
(4)
Gabby H.
This is standard bistro fare: good selection of wine, all the French basics, above average preparation. I'm never disappointed in Bistro Zinc but I never leave thinking, "Now, that was a great meal!". And, honestly, I think that's fine. Bistrot Zinc wouldn't be out of place on a quiet side street in Paris.
(3)
Matthew M.
We stumbled past this place while bar hopping and decided to give it a shot. DC and I both love French food, so this was a no-brainer. The decor is very Parisian and authentic. I nearly said "merci" to the man who held the door for us on our way in. The food was delicious. I ordered an item not explicitly on the menu, and they made it no problem. The portions were huge, both what we ordered and what we saw others eating. The cuisine and atmosphere were so authentic that I momentarily thought we were in Paris until i looked out the window and saw a Barnes and Noble. I'm only giving BZ four stars because despite my glowing review, the food i ordered was pretty simple. When I get the opportunity to try other items on the menu that are more complex than grilled cheese, I will certainly add the final star.
(4)
Tomas H.
Service is key to me - 2nd to food... We had a late lunch... Pate plate to start... Great atmosphere, music... Food runner had absolutely no personality & was rude, for example, when I asked what the different cheeses were, he looked at me, shook his head, said he didn't know and I would have to ask our server & walked away! Our server was short at first but when the Manager showed up on the floor, his tune changed and was friendlier. The water glass went empty for awhile but at least the food was good. I might return but next time, I will call the management to request better service before I make my reservation.
(2)
Nancy H.
Hate to be a downer, but everything except the food is great. I went for my first time and ordered the steak frites (steak + fries) because it was pictured on their $25 coupon and because the word "frites" just tickles me. Disappointingly, it tasted like yesterday's impromptu BBQ leftovers. My dad cooks a much meaner steak than that. Perhaps French people like their steaks thin and dry with just a pat of seasoned melted butter? My friend ordered the salmon with mushrooms and turnip "mashed potatoes," which wasn't appetizing either. On the other hand, the appetizer mussels in a buttery broth were delish! They were plump and clean. Entrees range anywhere from $14-24 which is a fair price to pay for what you think would be stuffy food. On the upside, the atmosphere at Bistrot Zinc is just perfect for any intimate setting. The lighting is dim, the window up front opens up to the sidewalkers on State Street, and the tile floors make you feel like you're in a hole-in-the-wall local diner in France. The service here is also superb; we didn't have to ask for a single thing. And best of all, they let a party of old friends stay till 11 PM without rushing us.
(3)
Shelley A. D.
We took the kids to celebrate Father's Day. Just like our last visit-- the staff was incredibly attentive and polished that made us feel special but not overly formal. The food was outstanding. The pacing of the meal and service was perfect. I suspect we will be returning again and again. Thank you Bistro Zinc!
(4)
Steven M.
Met some friends here for lunch on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. All the restaurants in the Viagra Triangle were overflowing with people. Half a block north and this place had a hand full of patrons. So we walked in and the guy scanned me from head to toe, I knew immediately what I was in for. Fickle queens with an attitude! The place is not that big so when he walked us to the back of the restaurant I thought that we were going into the kitchen. There were plenty of empty 4 bangers in the front by the windows as well as on the way to our table. I did not say a word because I did not want to ruin the day for everyone else. But it did piss me off when they seated couples at a table for 4. And when our friends arrived they asked if we requested to be seated in the alley? That is why I took off two stars. On to the food. I had the nicoise salade, which consisted of marinated tuna, potatos, hard boiled eggs, white anchovys and tomatos in a lemon vinaigrette. It was delicious and I would recommend it to anyone. The service was great also. But there is a reason the restaurant was empty. I can't imagine having this person greeting my customers by checking them out prior to seating them. Grow up and have some respect so they just might come back.
(3)
Autumn O.
Here's the scoop of the century: If you don't know GOOD food, this is your kind of place. I know good food, and therefore this is not my kind of place. The fiance and I were wandering downtown on a random and lovely snowy evening after work. "EEGADS" says he... "KRIMENY" says I... Then in unison: "I'M HUNGRY"! We wandered here and there and all around the square, eventually stumbling into Bistrot Zinc as the sleet began to fall. One decent (of course overpriced) bottle of wine, a shared entree of pan seared trout with caper sauce and sauteed spinach as well as a large bowl of parsnip soup later, we found ourselves rolling our eyes. This was mostly at the patrons of the establishment who seemed to be completely won over by the fancy words on the menu and the kitchy "French" styled interior. Clearly most of the people who frequent the Bistrot are not exactly foodies, and thus are certain to be dazzled with the overpriced and underspiced fare. What's not to love (roll of the eyes please) about small-ish portions, relatively bland dishes of food and poor spacing between tables all for a price that you can bet-yer-bottom-dollar you'll be wishing you hadn't paid later? This sounds harsh but that is that. Sub par excellence, monsieur. Adieu.
(2)
Bonnie A.
I came here for Valentine's Day, It has a very romantic ambiance. The service was good and the food was delicious. I had calf liver and it has a very unique taste and texture. At the first bite, the texture was similar to steak but then it became more of gelatinous. We had almond buttered cake with macerated berries. It was really good.
(5)
Ellen S.
I have been coming to this place for over 10 years. I can't believe I haven't written a review yet. I was very disappointed when the Lakeview location closed. This place is great. Some of the dishes don't really sound that good but they are. My favorite is the white anchovy salad with grilled chicken. Also, the French toast is the best on earth. They also have the best chocolate mousse anywhere. I am not usually a big chocolate mousse person but this one is perfect. Not heavy, not bitter, the perfect amount and texture.
(5)
Maureen F.
A great introduction to French bistro fare. Of the few times I've been here, everything has been outstanding. The moules mariniere is perfect. Our waiter was totally gracious the one night when we just ordered that for two with a bottle of wine but for this night we also got two entrees. My partner had the steak frites, nearly licking the plate once he was done. I had the vol au vent en croûte, the stew that night being a red wine veal stew which was phenomenal -- earthy but not too reliant on beef stock for the flavor. The meat just melted which was perfectly paired with flaky puff pastry and creme fraiche mashed potatoes. The dessert is really why I keep coming back. Everything is wonderful. The millas de bordeaux seems small but it packs a punch without being too sweet with excessive caramel sauce. The gateau au chocolat is pure decadence. I've had dreams of this dense and fudgey cake.
(4)
Lauren M.
As a current Evanston resident, I'm not very familiar with the Gold Coast area. However a lovely Sunday brunch with an out-of-town friend and a recommendation from a random stranger brought me to Bistrot Zinc. As soon as you walk in the door you know you are in for an experience. Not only does the decor take you away to a Parisian bistrot, but so does the food. I would highly recommend the potato-fennel soup combined with a half-sized apple sandwich. A tasty blend perfect for a chilly autumn day. I can't wait to go back and try some of the other menu items that sounded so good. It was definitely hard to decide what to get.
(5)
FatmanStan F.
Dare I say incredible? I lived on the upper west side of NYC for four years next to the most charming unassuming French bistro there called Cafe Du Soleil. Really grew to be love about French cuisine. I just moved back to Chicago a week ago, didn't think I would find something incredible so soon. I had the scallop, they were ok, I've had better. The ox tail risotto was out of this universe. really cozy decor and moderately warm staff. Will be back.
(4)
Mark H.
Mushroom Chicken Crepe for lunch. Hmmm? Was tempted by the bartender who persuaded me with a generous Vodka on the rocks drink. I figured....It was Friday afternoon. The warm summer breeze. The window doors were wide open, people were happy passing by. Y not try chicken w/ pancake?! Well, the presentation was just that. But after my initial awkwardly timid bite... I was hooked. The mushy yet slosh y cream with the soft crepe and chicken combination prepared by the chef made my taste buds crave more and more until I inhaled it while still leaving on the table a half glass of my liquid fuel?!!! Yup. Y not 5 stars than. It was a business date. Company matters. Sorry Bistrot Zinc otherwise it would be 5.
(4)
Kathleen M.
Stopped in for our final meal while in Chicago and it was just lovely. We got there pretty early for brunch, right when they opened, and it was pretty quiet. The windows along the street were open, they had fresh flowers on the tables, and I almost felt like I was back in France. While my sister waxed poetic about the french toast, I couldn't deny the Croque Monsieur. I've had a hard time finding a decent version of the sandwich in Atlanta so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to get my hands on a good one. I don't regret my decision in the least. The sandwich was the right amount of creamy and crunchy, fatty without being greasy, and as decadent and flavorful as I could hope. The skinny fries were equally addictive. Our server couldn't have been nicer and everyone in my crew seemed delighted with their dishes. Chicago has so many delicious eateries it will be hard to pick what to hit up on my next visit, but Bistrot Zinc will likely be on my short list.
(5)
Mrs. F.
Because they have a limited and standard French menu, this restaurant has been able to concentrate on perfecting their recipes. I've always enjoyed the Poulet Grand Mere, the trout, and the salmon. I tried the steak frites as well, but found it too salty, which is why I took it down a star. The wine list is very god, but desserts are a bit pricey, so opt in favor of something more traditional than profiteroles or chocolate mousse. Delicious and reasonable with excellent service. A footnote: expensive valet parking ($14 plus tip) comes along with being in the Rush Street area.
(3)
Kirsten H.
First time trying a freshwater fish - the walleye. It was amazing!!
(5)
Lia V.
Cute! Total french bistro feel - went on a Saturday afternoon with my cousin. It's in a great location to go shopping afterwards. Had a glass of champagne and half a turkey sandwich with french onion soup and homemade chips. The soup had way too much cheese in it, but really... is that so bad? It tasted really good. The turkey sandwich was good too - it had some fig jam on it or something. Cheap lunch. Staff wasn't the best or anything. I don't think our server actually ever introduced himself - maybe he was just having an off day. I'd recommend going if you're in the area.
(3)
Terry F.
A good place to stop by for a quick cocktail and a chat. I didn't try the menu, but the diners there all looked satisfied. The bartender wasn't very attentative, but the drink was poured properly.
(3)
Megan F.
My first time here was for Sunday brunch. Everyone I was with left saying what a lovely French bistro Bistro Zinc was and it really is. Since then, I have been back several times and have loved it every time. The Vegetable Chickpea and Tomato Stew is a favorite of mine as well as the Mussels. A friendly waitstaff is extremely attentive. The atmosphere is nice - just what you think of for a traditional French bistro - red and yellow color motif. Tables are packed together but it lends to the cozy, warm inviting atmosphere. I highly recommend checking this place out!
(5)
Peter D.
Came in late and got a great meal fast. I sat at the bar and I got right to business and it was one of the best if brief times. The bartender was friendly and we chatted for a good while and they all gave me good points of places to try. I got served bread with yummy butter to start and it was very good. I ordered the Steak Frites and it arrived fast which was great since I was starved. I chowed hard and fast and I left a happy camper. I can tell you that this place is on my list to return to again and again. Its right in the middle of a lot of bars and restaurants and there is also great people watching. You can get a great dinner here and then go enjoy an evening of people watching the cougars and the creepy old farts on the prowl. Awesome! I recommend you eat here. Please, if alone sit at the bar. Its the best!
(4)
Lori S.
Love BZ. It's our neighborhood favorite. Friendly staff - excellent food - and they don't rush you along. We will be back many many times.
(5)
Chris G.
Few regrets... I have few in life -- but admittedly, passing Bistro Zinc up as much as I have over the years until today's lunch certainly counts as one. We love to lunch as early as possible in order to beat the crowds and arrived a few minutes before the scheduled 11:30am opening. Our server was cheery, generous and patient as we had a hard time picking from many of the tantalizing apps and entrees. We settled on escargot and french onion soup to start and my friend chose the salmon gruyère quiche and me, the pan fried trout over a bed of cooked spinach capers and cherry tomatoes as the entree. We rocked the chunky escargot and sopped up all its buttery juices and soup with fresh bread. The quiche was mouthgasmic with it's buttery middles and heads-of-state worthy crust. The pan fried trout tasted just-caught and perfect over a steamed spinach bed with capers and tomatoes. It beamed, white, yet slightly buttery and crispy. We had tears in our eyes and were in need of this culinary fix on a dark, bleak, icy Chicago Monday morning. Just as we approached Bistro Zinc, the sun came out and all was well in our world. We debated over dessert and after mulling a few different options chose chocolate mousse balls and also their almond butter cake with macerated berries. Now I don't know what the hell macerated really means exactly but these berries were very rich tasting... almost marinated in a rich watermelon juice as my friend noted, wonderfully. The cake was reminiscent of my elders cooking old-fashioned tea cakes and was most wonderful and complex.--hot out of the oven. It was a struggle to keep my shoes on and remain seated in my chair in a civil fashion. I was definitely having a moment! The exact blend is a "state secret" but they brought to the table a fresh pot of Intelligensia decaf. Panamanian and Guatemalan beans are in there and it was the best cup(s) of coffee I've had. If that wasn't the kicker, we left with a complimentary $25 gift certificate for dinner. NEW. BIG. FANS. Waistlines be damned. :)
(4)
Cliff F.
We stopped in on a Monday around 8pm strictly for a night cap and a little dessert to finish our evening. We were greeted promptly with a smile. I informed the maitre d that this was a simple night cap and dessert stop to curb our sweet tooth. He seated us at a two top in the front of the restaurant to enjoy the street views and take in the cool Chicago summer evening. Our server came over very promptly gave us a dessert and cocktail menu explained the dessert specials the chef had prepared for the day. We opted to share a plate of the profiterole's and two glasses of Bordeaux. The dessert was wonderful and paired with the very average house Bordeaux it was even better. The decor, the ambiance, and the quaint little bistro table overlooking the bustling street made this a delightful ending to a wonderful evening. I will add that a house made vanilla bean Ice cream was served with the profiterole's, which was very good! However I decided to get an order to go with house made creme fraiche and it was so much better...
(4)
Michelle P.
Great escargot, cocktails, and risotto. Quaint but vibrant atmosphere. Definitely a great date spot or for a night out with the girls.
(4)
Elise P.
This place is so cute. I came in for brunch and the food was delicious. My friend and I split the burger and the french toast. I loved the brunch food, and the place wasn't crowded at all. Even on a Sunday morning. I want to come back for dinner. The French onion soup looked amazing. I'm bummed I didn't try it. But I will definitely be back!
(5)
Rachel S.
Went here over the weekend with my boyfriend and his dad. Selected the place based off Yelp reviews and was not disappointed. To start, we had the mussels which were in a tasty cream sauce that was great to dip bread into. For my main, I had the L'onglet Steak, which was cooked perfectly and very tasty. It came with green beans that were crunchy, adding some freshness to the plate, and cauliflower gratin that was cheesy and delicious. Boyfriend had the grandmother's chicken, which was really good, and his dad was also pleased with the meal he ordered. The wine we selected with the help of the knowledgeable wait staff went great with the food, and was reasonably priced. For dessert, we had the profiteroles a la glace. the chocolate sauce was the best part of the dessert, for sure! The atmosphere is cozy, and would be perfect for a date, outing with close friends or family. Would highly recommend!
(5)
Benjamin H.
Great people watching spot in Gold Coast. The chips at the bar are great, the bread and butter are yummy (and never ending), the cocktails are also very solid and the wine is reasonably priced. Excellent service with very good food and a low-key (but mature) vibe.
(4)
Lindsey O.
How is this place 4/5 stars? I love french food, but maybe I just ordered the wrong thing at Bistrot Zinc. My group sat at the bar and ate the heavily oil drenched, salt-less chips and hard boiled eggs, and I decided to order something before drinking more. I ordered a vegetable crepe with goat cheese. Absolutely nothing to rave about. The veggie crepe tasted exactly like that - the veggies were covered in cooking oil, no garlic or additional flavors (the menu says they add basil, but I couldn't taste it), and a little dollop of goat cheese. Overall, it was unmemorable. The bar tender however was a sweetheart, and I would go back to buy more drinks from her prior to heading out.
(2)
Clara C.
My dining companion and I came in here off of the Yelp reviews and were not disappointed. Ambience: Fancy ish, cute little French restaurant. Service: Very professional and quick. Never once had to look around for the server. Food: -Chicken & mushroom Crepe- was perfect, not too creamy and the perfect fluffiness -Veggie Tajine w/ couscous- I loved this dish. The couscous was a good texture and the veggies that came with it accompanied the couscous perfectly. -Chocolate mousse dessert- Heaven on a dish. The mousse was a perfect frothy fluffy texture. Exactly what I imagine clouds in heaven should taste like. The chocolate was very rich, but at the same time not heavy.
(5)
Evelyn M.
My husband and I had a delightful birthday dinner here. The atmosphere was lovely, it was very French bistro in feel, with an old-fashioned touch, beautiful wood and brass trim, lots of mirrors, walls painted a gently warm cream color, and vintage posters and prints in frames. Food was really delicious, from the French Onion Soup to the trout to the dessert. loved everything. Service was warm and attentive
(5)
Jennie C.
Came here on a Sunday night with a big group of people. Our waiter was very attentive and patiently awaited our indecisiveness and numerous questions. We started with octupus salad and mussels. The salad was nice and refreshing, but the mussels was what blew me away: I'd never seen mussels so plump! On top of that they were also cooked to perfection, bathed in a buttery broth that we couldn't stop dunking bread in. For entrees we had the skate, pork Milanese, trout, beef stew and steak & frites. All of which were perfectly cooked, though one could argue the food is not as aggressively seasoned as most restaurants. It was the perfect amount of seasoning for me, but I have a lighter palate, so some people may find it on the bland side. Bistrot Zinc's downfall was in dessert. Everyone at the table ordered creme brulee, except me, who went with the profiteroles. The brulee was standard fare, the profiteroles were tough, dense, and doused with too much chocolate sauce. I'd stick with their food and go elsewhere for dessert, perhaps a gelato by the fountain?
(3)
Lola K P.
Delightful old-school French bistro, very clean and bright-feeling, comfortable. I've come by for brunch with a few girlfriends, and a Bastille day dinner with a group of ten, and both were very lovely. Service was prompt and friendly. The food was quite good. Both times were great, and I would definitely return.
(4)
Lori M.
Delightful Our first visit here on Easter. Charming decor and a warm day allowed for open air dining, bringing the feel of Paris even closer. Eggs benedict with smoked salmon quite extraordinary and prepared to perfection. Service was outstanding! We look forward to our next visit!
(5)
Connie Y.
Food was really good! I was pleasantly surprised given that my experiences at any French restaurant is typically met with a bit of disappointment. Went there with some friends for brunch and got the french onion soup and lamb sandwich with grilled onion, watercress, and rosemary aioli which were both delicious. It was quite filling as well. The ambiance was nice for a Saturday morning. There were not a whole lot of people which is a nice change from most other brunch places where it can be loud and difficult to hear people at your own table due to all the noise. The overall staff was quite nice. Our server was okay. To be honest, not as great as I would have expected from such an establishment.
(4)
Anya C.
Good French toast, good bread, good escargots
(4)
Helen Y.
my bf and I went here on a dinner, we didn't put down reservations ahead and it was very easy for us to be seated. After we sat down, a waiter soon came over and offered us the menu, however, he didn't offer to explain the menu or had the courtesy to ask us if we had been here and needed any recommendation. after we ordered, they brought us a small plate of bread without any butter or olive oil, how are you suppose to eat that? my bf needed to go and find a waiter and asked them to bring us olive oil. the food was brought to us very quickly, we ordered an fried eggplant appetizer, steamed mussels and an entree of the liver. the food was good, not amazing though. overall, the food is just OK and the service really sucks.
(3)
Megan G.
Went here for Valentine's Day dinner last night. We primarily had the specials, which were all good, but not as French as I would have assumed because we were at a mostly french restaurant. I'd love to go back for the crepes or the mussels (or maybe the croque monsieur)! The wine list is pretty good, and I'm always a sucker for the bread that always seems to keep coming. Plus the waiter only laughed at me a little bit when I asked for a cup of coffee once he came and greeted us (I'm on nights right now, hence the post-Valentine's Day late night post).
(4)
Joyce H.
Came here New Years Day for brunch. It's a very cute, bright French cafe that seems to attract a lot of people from the neighborhood. I saw waiters / bartenders behind the counter conversing with people about the daily news. There seemed to be an overall friendly atmosphere. I shared the escargot dipped in butter sauce with friends -- very rich and fresh! I enjoyed that very much. Having just become a pescetarian, I had their roasted vegetable puree soup and the ratatouille crepe. The soup was the right amount of creaminess, and the puree was very tasty. The combination of the soup + crepe turned out to be on the salty side though. That's really my only issue. I tasted the French onion soup -- great flavor and the cheese was special, but let's just say they were very generous with the amount that they topped on the soup.
(3)
Gigi G.
The French onion soup is Delish! Great Ambiance. Amazing staff.
(5)
Kiki W.
The good: The service is great and the atmosphere is charming. The mediocre: Everything was almost right. The food was well-cooked, but under-seasoned and uninspired. They rely too much on butter and cream for flavor, rather than actually seasoning the food properly. Having said that, a little salt here and a little lemon there greatly improved the dishes. But for the price, I rather expect my food to emerge without needing additional help. If you're looking for a place to take your non-foodie Aunt & Uncle from Wisconsin or Iowa after a long day shopping on Michigan Avenue, Bistrot Zinc works fine. If you're looking for a stand-out bistrot meal, take a pass.
(3)
Dennis B.
Went here 1/11/13 This was a nice little place. Even though it was french, I wasn't to excited over the menu. For starters I had the escargot which was decent but needed more garlic. Then the anchovy salad to me was a bit bland. It had a anchovy vinaigrette for dressing. I wouldn't recommend anyone getting this unless you're really into anchovies. For the entree I got the roasted chicken which I wasn't that impressed with, especially for the price. All in all the decor was nice, staff was friendly, and the was food mediocre. I went on a Friday night around 6pm and the place was pretty empty. I paid about $40, no drinks. There's a lot of other places in Chicago where I could've gotten the same thing for less than $20, but I guess part of that price is location. Nice experience, but I won't be going back. It is a great place for people watching if you sit by the windows.
(3)
James H.
Tasty and hearty selection of dishes. Service was great as well. It boasts a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere without being too snooty (parisian). I will always recommend the escargot, regardless of what else you order. Be kind. Take your time. Tip your waiter. Enjoy.
(4)
Susie L.
Food is terrific. The soup de jour always pleases. The quiche lorraine was perfect. The smoked salmon benedict was the perfect portion (not too huge, and just elegant). The servers are very friendly, quick, and knowledgable. When I casually asked about the Restaurant Week menu... they actually printed one on the spot and bound it in a clear menu holder for me to read it. This place is very cozy, classy, romantic, and feels like you're in France for little bit. Excellent!
(5)
Jinx T.
Très Magnifique A friend raved about the liver and onions dish here - and raved so much and so frequently - I was prompted to stop in and give it a try. What a magnificent dish! And to do it justice - here's the actual description: Foie de Veau - Sauted calf's liver, smoked bacon, fried onions, crème fraîche mashed potatoes, port sauce. I paired this dish with a Gin Martini - done beautifully - with perfectly noticeable vermouth - served with two beautifully skewered plump green olives. In addition, the room and the service was a delight! Highly Recommended!
(5)
Evan S.
Welcome to 2012, my Yelp buddies. This year will be a wonderful one in many ways. I plan to do a great job of staying on top of my reviews this year, and also have some things in store. Stay tuned for a new list that I'll be working on. Now, on to Bistrot Zinc. This quaint little French spot wasn't a premeditated dinner, an elaborate date, or a scheme to impress any old girl. It was simply a random choice for a late dinner after a night out at First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art. We needed food at a good price and BZ was highly rated. So we sat down around 9:30/10 to a relatively empty place with friendly service and class. I ordered a Chardonnay, and Tarra T. kept to the water (she was already feeling a good buzz). The meals: she had the burger, which was very flavorful and on a Hawaiian bun (if I recall correctly). The main drawback: it was heavy on the bleu cheese, which was pretty overpowering. I had the beef short ribs (I mother effin LOVE a short rib!). They were flanked with mashed potatoes and carrots, rightly sized, not too filling but left me very satisfied. We shared the mushroom soup for starters, which was full and flavorful. We were in and out with ease, enjoyed great meals, and found a nice little random walk-in spot in the Viagra Triangle.
(3)
Will G.
I don't eat french cuisine often, but I really enjoyed my meal here. We had mussels to start, which came in a very tasty broth. I had the pork and apple stew, which, while it was a little on the heavy side, had good flavor. The other members of the party had the tagine and the pork chop w/ rhubarb; both of which were good, though I preferred the latter.The service was very friendly, unpretentious, patient, and informed, and the waiter picked a nice wine to pair with my dinner. The atmosphere was nice, and intimate, not too crowded and you could have an actual conversation. I would definitely go back..
Great French food in a relaxed setting. We shared the mushroom and chicken crepe to start as it was listed under small plates. It was amazing, but HUGE. We took 1/2 of it to-go. Next courses were the goat cheese salad and the salmon with lentils (special). Both were great. Creme brulee for dessert. Our server was incredibly helpful, especially with wine selections.
(4)
Paridhi N.
On a fine Sunday morning, husband and I went for brunch .. And needless to say, the food was fresh and delicious. I had mushroom and leek quiche and husband had fruit and yogurt crepe. I am glad we live couple of blocks away from this restaurant. Looking forward to make frequent visits. Excellent ambience. Laid back. Good music. Good service.
(4)
Gail B.
Great French food for a great price! Pleasant experience. Even the small plates were plenty to eat. The food is reasonably priced but the wine is all on the high side. It would be nice if they had some other affordable wines.
(4)
R C.
Bistro Zinc is a fantastic place to get lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is great, and the staff is wonderful. The prices are comparable to other Chicago restaurants. HIghly recommend!
(5)
Stephanie W.
I came here with a friend, very excited by the outside decor and expecting to be blown away. For the most part, the food was very "meh". I had steak frites and wasn't particularly impressed with the steak or the frites. The service was great but the food was a bit of a disappointment.
(3)
Janine A.
Unfortunately, I have to give Bistro Zinc 2 stars due to the extremely poor service. The food was decent and the waiter started off great but it all went steeply down hill. He was a self proclaimed ninja due to the way he snuck in to refill water and coffee at first. He clearly has difficulties managing more than one table. We felt completely neglected and our time there was unnecessarily prolonged. We felt as if he was blatantly ignoring us. Will not be back here for a looong time.
(2)
Dallas F.
A quiet French restaurant seemed like the perfect place to escape the Gold Coast frenzy during Cinco De Mayo and that's how I wound up at Bistrot Zinc. Initially, we were just looking for a place to have dessert, but upon seeing the menu we just had to order more food. I ordered the Onion soup which was divine. I often find when I order French Onion soup its either too salty and straight from the Campbell's can and drowned in cheese to cover the taste, but that was not the case here. The soup was a perfect balance of saltiness and a hint of sweetness from what I assumed was sweet onions. The gruyere cheese baked on top didn't overpower the soup and it was just all around lovely. I also sampled a few of their mussels steamed with white wine. I love mussels and these were great! When it was finally time to order dessert, the reason for going to Bistro Zinc, I ordered the almond butter cake with macerated berries. I almost started this review by raving about how amazing the cake was. The berries were a nice touch and all, but the cake itself, I almost have no words! So rich and flavorful without being too heavy. Simply splendid. Everything about my dining experience here was great. The service was friendly, prompt and detailed. I can't wait to return to try the Poulet Grand-mere!
(4)
Chloe Z.
Such a cozy bistro for legit French food! The waiters are super nice. they seat you, bring you water/ bread just in time,and are SUPER knowledgeable about the wines. our waiters for the night is a French and you can tell he has a passion for the food he is serving i got the sauteed calf liver paired with mashed potato, fried onions, and red wine sauce. It was the perfect match with the perfect paring of textures. I got a dessert wine which is also fantastic! will def come back more often Update- I asked , via e-mail, the owner about the wine I had last night. he was so friendly and he went out of his way to help me figure out! definitely a plus!
(5)
Amy S.
This is a really cute Paris-feeling bistrot. The dishes are hearty and make you feel like you are in some place outside of the gold coast. My favorite item is here is the stew; it is rich in seasoning and the bread is fresh. It's just a nice little gem that doesn't attract the typical tourists (as Mortons/Gibsons/Tavern on Rush do).
(4)
Nicole C.
I've been a long-time fan of Bistrot Margot on Wells, so I felt like I was "cheating" on my French bistrot when I had lunch at Zinc today. But, I'm so glad I did. I had the soup and sandwich lunch special (see photo). The truffled egg salad sandwich was good -- although heavy on the butter lettuce, light on the egg salad and I didn't taste the truffle. The onion soup was DELISH! It is served in an over sized ramekin (I did miss the mini cast iron dishes at Margot). Thick, dark, full of flavor and topped with a heavy hand of gruyere cheese. Yum! And, they have really good coffee. :)
(4)
Michael D.
WE ALWAYS visit Bistrot Zinc when visiting Chicago..a bit of France in the windy city. Try the roasted chicken!! And the people are great!!!
(5)
Chris G.
Great food, great service, great atmosphere. We had the sandwich soup combination for lunch. The onion soup was quite a bit of food for me and I didn't care for so much cheese. I really liked my egg salad sandwich. The service was amazing. We went back for dinner. I had the trout and my wife had the lamb. We loved them both! I had the crepes for desert and was not disappointed.
(5)
Melissa B.
We decided to try this out for Restaurant Week this year. It wasn't my favorite, but overall I liked it. I think I was just a little uncomfortable at the table we were given, which started me off on the wrong foot. Our table of four had the onion soup, pate and goat cheese for our starters. I think we all agreed that the goat cheese was the winner. The pate wasn't bad, but I'm not really a fan. The onion soup was a little heavy on the cheese, and I love cheese! I can't speak for the other girls entrees. I was stuffed by that point and didn't share. I had the Steak frites. Other than the fact it was cooked medium well as opposed to medium it was delicious. Desserts were all wonderful! I loved my almond cake. Wine list was nice and very reasonable as well. Service was nice. Completely honest though...I've had better service. If the service were a little more friendly I'd return a lot faster.
(4)
Andrew N.
Great atmosphere for the girlfriend's birthday! Of all the restaurants in the area this one was the most reasonable and the food was delicious. I had the steak, and it was great. We will be back!
(4)
Nate H.
In my 4 day visit to Chicago, I went to Zinc twice! I love this place! I have never sat at a table, because the bar is so beautiful and the bartenders are wonderful. First, you are welcomed by thick crunchy waffle cut potato chips continually made in the kitchen and delivered in front of you in nice long wicker baskets. Treat yourself to one of the hard boiled eggs while you sip a cocktail and read the menu. Traditional bistro fare here, so whenever at a French bistro, I try the liver and onions. Usually comes with a red wine reduction sauce and mashed potatoes. This one did not disappoint! I would have appreciated a thinner slice of liver, but this is Chicago, and everything is served larger, so I adapted. I quickly learned to trust my bartender, Jason, so I just told him to bring me a great glass of red - he delivered perfectly. My dessert of was accompanied by a surprise from Jason - a Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur that just sent me over the edge of a great evening out. Some day I might actually get a table...well, maybe not.
(5)
Evan Thoreau H.
Ooh la la. C'est la vie. Uh-huh-ha. We were out the other night looking for a taste of classic French bistro cuisine and saw some good things about Zinc. Now, the inner Camus in me is struggling between three and four stars for a variety of reasons. I think another visit might clear that up, but with so many great bistros to choose from, dare I come back? Ah, the never-ending struggle yet again. So let's just get down to the Bons and Mals. Bon: -Atmosphere: by far the best part about the place. From the second you step up to the front door, you feel like you're entering a comfortable old bistro next to the river Seine. Inside it only gets better, with dim lighting, classic Parisian art and design, tucked away booths and spartan tables. You just feel like you're back in Paris. Loved it. -Bar/Wine: I like how the wine list was non-pretentious. Just good pours (many by the glass) of tasty, yet affordable French wines. The bar itself is obviously the centerpiece of the restaurant, as it's a classic Zinc topped bar (Bistrot Zinc, get it?). Bartender was polite and friendly and I thought the little tree of hardboiled eggs at the bar gave it an eggs-ceptionally authentic feel (that pun can go in the 'mal' category). Mal: -Price: Now, everything is relative, so don't get me wrong here. I don't think the prices are outrageous - especially for French dining - but they are a tad pricey for what you get. Bistro food is supposed to be simple, tasty and (again, relatively) cheap. It's what the French eat when they don't want to make a extravaganza of a meal. What you quickly realize is that you're paying a premium for the ambiance and the Old Town location, so I get that. I just wish it was a little more out of the way and a couple bucks cheaper for what you get... Comme si, comme ca: -The food: Again, think RELATIVE here. I think overall, the food is exactly what I was expecting: savory, quality bistro grub that warms the soul but doesn't have to be a show stopper. The estargot was excellent, huge snails and piping hot. I had the classic steak frites - steak was very thin, but cooked well, frites could have been a little more flavorful. My friend had the stew of the day, which was a beer and beef stew, which was very tasty. Finished with a chocolate mousse that was a nice light touch to the end of a meal. So why just so-so? Again, it was just tasty, standard bistro fare for a slightly inflated price. Overall, Bistrot Zinc certainly tickled my francophile taste buds and is a great place for a leisurely, classic French meal, but just be forewarned that you're mostly paying for the location.
(3)
j b.
What a lovely place. Made me want to go to France. Crepe ratatouille awesome. Bartender Lisa awesome. Pleasant, helpful, professional, sharing. Must try the locally made liquors from Koval: rose hips, jasmine, ginger.
(5)
Reed N.
You know... I see two ridiculous reviews of this place below that are negative. Complaints about kitschy decor... not true. Comments about what patrons think... like they read minds or something. Complaints about portion size... not true. Complaints about prices... not true. Complaints about vinegar, but not asking the server to fix it... not fair. Complaints about a server not taking a picture. Uh... SERVER, not photographer. They have other work to do sparky. So let me give you a REAL review. I have been to France 7 times. Yes. Seven. For a total of about 70 days. I know French food quite well. So... We were seated at a gloriously fortunate table all the way against the back wall away from the noise of the center of the place. It was a busy Saturday night. Our server was an enthusiastic gentlemen who was honestly working his ass off. He helped us narrow our choice of food down to: Burger with blue cheese and fries. The frite were brown to perfection and the burger was a lean patty cooked to medium rare state... but still warm throughout and not bloody. Just as tender and delicious as you will find. Not a huge patty, but just fine. My girl and I do not do buns, so no comment there. Cassoulet was a looser than a traditional version... a little more liquid is what I mean. Served on a plate in a large portion. Traditional servings are a bit smaller in a crock with breadcrumbs on top. The beans and sauce were slightly smoky and were excellent. The duck quarter was excellent as well. The sausage was odd, but still positive and flavorful meat. Call it uniquely spiced. The lamb... good GOD the lamb. I have eaten dozens of pounds of lamb. The lamb chunks were the absolute best lamb I have ever eaten in my 43 years... Ever. Tender. Flavorful. Just perfect. The side item was brussel sprouts with bacon and prunes. The french use prunes [pruneau] to offset earthy dishs like potatoes and, well brussel sprouts... and with with proteins like pork and chicken. The sweetness is just wonderful with these items. Anyway, the salty bacon, sweet prunes and earthy sprouts combine to create a trio of fun on your pallet. Really, for a bistro, we received more than we expected in flavor and value. This is a great little place in a great location. You could get fancier... but that does not make the food better. Food is what I am rating, and this place is 5-star.
Intimate, cozy & super clean. As French as one can find in Chicago. Service excellent 'specially Matt. Never had to wait for refills etc. Has an excellent menu. Portions are very good. Not over the top. The quiche tu jour & salad, excellent lunch choice. Would definitely recommend and dine here again. Price $$ for lunch $$$ for dinner. Worth a trip.
(4)
Bob W.
Bistro Zinc is right next to our place and is about the only restaurant in the area serving things that require more words to describe than "edible". In fact every time I come here I am pleasantly surprised, which is a nice feeling I am probably ruining by writing this review. I haven't had anything less than good here and the starter bread and butter is excellent and this from someone normally who doesn't do the buttered carbs thing. Their mashed potatoes are easily some of the best anywhere. I can personally vouch for the tastiness of the Poulet Grand Mère, the cassoulet that is usually a special and the Vol-au-Vent (which comes with said mashed potatoes). The chicken crepe is also quite good and my wife says the ratatouille is excellent as well. Desserts are probably delicious but always so bog standard looking that we never order any. Also we are usually full with the quite large portions that actually somewhat justify the prices. Finally, I can't recall any place that serves such distinctly and authentically french bourgeoise. The uniqueness along with the quality make this the best restaurant in the area, though Tanta may usurp it.
(4)
Frances H.
My husband and I went here for weekend brunch. We were lucky enough to find parking right away, which we realized on our way there may be an ordeal considering the location of the restaurant (poor planning on our part and just dumb luck). The restaurant is cute, standard french style cafe (similar to those in Paris, but way bigger and more spacious). It was a gorgeous day so we had sat by the windows which were open. Apparently this was also the couple zone as every table was occupied by a couple (except for the ladies next to us). For our meal, we had the following: French onion soup - Definitely cheesy, very sweet onion flavor. However a bit salty to my taste, and was served warm (almost room temp), as opposed to piping hot. I am a fan of piping hot soup, so was not loving this...but my husband, who prefers lukewarm food, loved it. Lamb sandwich - Simple lamb flavor, highlighted by onions and the creamy spread. Perfect for those lamb purists. I loved the waffle chips that came with the sandwich, which I devoured not very stealthily from my husband's plate. Pan-fried trout - This was perfectly cooked in butter. It even turned my husband around, who up to that point did not see trout as a viable food option. However, I thought the fish was lacking a bit of salt, which was easily remedied (as I was seasoning my eggs). The one low point of the dish were the potatoes, which I think were supposed to be roasted, but I couldn't tell as they were drowning in olive oil/butter? I love potatoes, I love butter...but even I couldn't really enjoy the soggy potatoes. Overall, superb experience in dining. The food came out extremely quickly, which was much appreciated as I was starving. Will definitely go back to check out the crepes.
(4)
Keerthi A.
Went on a weekday night with a girlfriend and it was the perfect place to eat. The place was relatively quiet and we had decent attention from our waiter, he seemed a bit frazzled though. We both ordered the crepes, I got the ratatouille and my friend ordered the Chicken, which was good apparently. My ratatouille crepe was really good, well presented. The portion was quite a bit, so took some home. We had a glass of wine, and it was just the perfect neighborhood joint with a relaxed atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
(3)
Blonde H.
Bistro Zinc is one of my favorite French Bistro in Chicago. On a minus temps Tuesday night, I choose this spot to take a client after attending a luxe business affair where we had Hors d'oeuvre. We decided sitting at the bar would suit our light fare requests. My business guest, ordered soup and a glass of wine. I ordered escargot with a glass of wine. The bartender was a women with a bad attitude, who gave us lip on our wine questions. When my escargot came, delicious as always I will positively add, I asked for a plate of bread, as it was not proper to be sharing my business guest bread plate. The bar tender "clicked her tongue like a hen." And got the bread, like she was doing me a favor. I practice being nice to wait staff and bartenders. Chicago neighborhoods are intimate and small. We repeat our visits here. Bistro, you lost me as a loyal patron. When we walked out the door, my client expressed her dislike of the bartender. This none the less did not pan out to be the dining experience I had planned on, and it cost me business.
(2)
Kristen S.
A friend and I decided to try our Bistrot ZInc for a Sunday brunch date. Everything was exceptional. The service, food and drink! I love the decor of the place. It truly is very "french". Our server was very quick to offer suggestions of their wine list and menu. I myself chose to order off of their brunch menu and had the Brioche French Toast. Holy heavens. AMAZING. I paired that with a glass of white wine and I was in brunch heaven. My friend ordered the Truffled Egg Salad sandwich and she couldnt complain. Will defintely be returning to this establishment! Its the perfect brunch spot. They also offer valet.
(5)
Irina H.
5 stars for the waiters and the owner, who care very much about whether their customers are enjoying their food or not. My mother didn't touch her soup (since she had a stroke, we can only guess at what she wants to eat), and the staff noticed and were very concerned that she get something to her liking. We greatly enjoyed the mussels appetizer, as well as our brunch menu sandwiches and crepes, and we shared an order of profiteroles for dessert. I though the restaurant had a lovely, sunny atmosphere. You do get the "Viagra Triangle" crowd around here, so it's not really my kind of scene, but would recommend it nonetheless.
(5)
Kwoky L.
When I was learning French at the Alliance Francaise, we got a gift certificate of $25 for Bistrot Zinc which was why we came for dinner about a year or two ago. I got to admit, I like French food but I don't love it. I figured I should at least give it a try. Bistro food is very predictable. There's escargot, steak frites, ratatouile, poulet roti, quiche, you get the gist. It's really how well they prepared it. My trout meuniere was cooked quite well. In fact, it was my first fish a la meuniere and enjoyed it that I tried making it at home the next evening. Overall, it was a good dinner in a very French setting but nothing spectacular. The decor did remind me of Paris though. Definitely a place to check out if you're in the neighbourhood.
(3)
Tenzo D.
Solid choice that never disappoints. OK, it disappoints just a little. Like someone said, they need to add duck. And some steak tartar. ohhhh and bulubaise. But seriously. Its the best french cafe we have found in the gold cost / old town area. Consistent and good waiter. Brought my French mother in law once and she was pleased. Now if they would only let dogs in......
(4)
Polly S.
Decided to try Bistrot Zinc out for brunch namely because they take reservations, whereas, other brunch places do not. The french decor was nice - all reds and mustard yellow. Best seats in the house are definitely by the windows so I would suggest specifically requesting that area. Service was helpful and friendly. The brunch menu left something to be desired. A bit uninspired. Ordered a crepe with mushroom, spinach, and goat cheese. Decent, but nothing special. Boyfriend ordered nicoise salad - again, decent, but nothing special. The mimosa was refreshing and tasty but at $9, too expensive to order a second. Lesson learned? To avoid a wait, I got something decent, but nothing special here. Next time I'll be more patient - a good brunch spot is worth the wait!
(3)
Ryan C.
I went with friends during Restaurant Week and opted for the prix fixe. C'est si bon! The french onion soup was delicious, although mine came with almost too much cheese. It was easy enough to avoid, though. And I'm guessing I just offended the entire state of WI. I enjoyed the grilled salmon as well, and I don't eat fish frequently. It paired well with the bottle of Sauv Blanc we ordered. The pot de creme was, in a word, amazeballs. You are a fool not to order it.
(4)
Christina M.
I love their french onion soup! I can't take it!! so delicous and their Royal is my favorite burger in the gold coast!
(4)
Gerardo R.
Visiting Chicago for a couple of days, went to Bistrot Zinc because of our concierge. The food was really well prepared and tasted like authentic french. The service was good. The atmosphere was more of the older crowd who demands true french cuisine and not so much a happening scene. Liked the fact that the menu features monthly chef seasonal specials. Good french wine list. Do recommend it.
(3)
Dory O.
We went to Bistrot Zinc for a midday lunch. It was fantastic. We both had the french onion soup and it was cheesy and fab. I also had the chicken and mushroom crepe and it was out of this world. I will definitely go back.
(5)
Mahsa T.
Nestled among the shops, restaurants, and hubbub of the State/Rush Street area is a little French oasis that will make you forget you're in the middle of Chicago. Bistro Zinc is casual, inviting, and classy. I enjoyed a very serene Saturday brunch here with my friend. It was very peaceful and quiet--just the light chatter of our neighboring tables. We had a nice table by the window and service was prompt and professional. Food was excellent. I ordered the eggs Benedict which came with poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and Hollandaise sauce on two English muffins. My only complaint is that the whites of my eggs were a little bit runny, but it was not a big deal. My friend had the spinach and mushroom omelette, which she liked. They have great coffee too. I highly recommend this laid-back, charming place for a delicious meal.
(4)
Jim W.
The duck was perfectly matched with the tarragon roasted peach. What a surprise.
(5)
Paddy R.
Every time I visit Chicago, I make a lunch or brunch date at Bistrot Zinc. The food is delicious, authentic and fairly priced. The atmosphere is comfortable, like a great Paris bistrot. On my most recent visit, I made a mistake and ordered the wrong salad. The owner, without me asking but overhearing my conversation with the server, promptly took the dish away and made me the salad I anticipated. The server apologized for delay in bringing the dish, even though it was my fault that a new one was being prepared. The exceptional customer service went beyond what would be expected at any restaurant. On leaving, we asked the owner about other dining spots in Chicago and she was generous with suggestions. My second trip to Bistrot Zinc was due to having one of the best burgers I had ever had, regardless of type of restaurant. Subsequent visits were due to the combination of good food, great atmosphere and attentive service. From this point on, trips to Bistrot Zinc will be due to how special the staff made me and my friends feel when having lunch there.
(5)
Nick W.
Not too fancy, just right.
(4)
Patrick B.
This is the best kept secret in Old Town. What a great place to have lunch or dinner. The food is excellent. The waiters are friendly and the atmosphere is wonderful. Loved it!!!
(5)
Amanda C.
Went here for dinner with a group during restaurant week. French food is one of my favorite cuisines and Bistrot Zinc does not disappoint. They start you off with bread/butter and the butter is seriously SO good. The baguttes are flaky on the outside and soft on the inside. The wine list is extensive with most of the wines coming from France which is cool. I think there were only 2 American options out of 30+. For an appetizer I had the goat cheese souffle and steak frites for the entree. I also tried the salmon and for dessert we had almond cake and chocolate mousse. Everything was so delicious. One of the best things about our experience here was that even though it was crowded and restaurant week, we never felt rushed and really enjoyed our 2+ hour dinner. The atmosphere is just really relaxed. Our server was patient and attentive and I wish I could remember his name!
(5)
Janet E.
Came here for a return visit and it didnt disappoint. Service was spot on. Our waiter seemed genuinely interested in serving us. It was about 2pm on a Saturday and there were about 12 other tables seated! Who eats that late? Oh wait, I do. This is one of the ONLY French restaurants that we could find that opened between 2-5pm. All other establishments were closed until dinner. Thank goodness Bistro Zinc chooses not to follow the others! We tried the potato soup, the lamb sandwich, and the poached eggs over smoked salmon. For dessert we tried the creme brulee. Everything was delicious!! The lamb was surprisingly tender and the aftertaste was almost undetectable! Yummie! Prices were reasonable here and the dining atmosphere was very nice. If french food weren't so buttery I'd be here more often!
(4)
S G.
Ok. It's always hit or miss on vacation. The pressure is on to make a good choice because time is limited. The family ordered pear and goat cheese salad to share along with onion soup and a bottle of Medoc. A mystery order of escargot appeared, but we didn't mind and they were great! I had the steak frite, my daughter ordered crepe with chicken and mushroom, my husband ordered stew in puff pastry. Honestly this restaurant was more French than American. There was no pressure to vacate the place in short order. As a matter of fact we were invited to take our time between courses. The entrees were yummy. The steak was just steak but perfectly cooked. The stew in puff pastry was masterfully seasoned as was the crepe, which ended up being the hit of the night. Delicately cooked and well put together is the French way. Cafe Zinc did not disappoint. I haven't yet mentioned the service which was amazing. Friendly and accommodating with an atmosphere which allowed the family to talk to one another and relax. We ordered dessert because we didn't really want to leave when the meal was over. Warmed Almond Cake with fruit compote and espresso pot De creme. Ok we were really too full to eat it but we just couldn't help ourselves. The moral of the story is....GO TO CAFE ZINC.
I was looking forward to dining at this restaurant because I'm such a francophile. This was an overall dissapointing expieriance. I ordered the steal au poivre which I ordered medium well, It came out beyond well done and resembled shoe leather. My salad and dessert we good though. The champagne I ordered was flat though. Very nice service but if I want good French food I'll go to cite.
(2)
Shin M.
I got some vegetable cous cous dish which was really good but not filling at all. The server was really nice to my friends and me up until we asked him if he could split the bill 3 ways. He got very very upset and said this was going to take a while. He came back with the bill with hand written calculations all over it and just threw it on our table. Needless to say, he did not earn the 20% we were all initially going to give him...
(3)
Evan M.
Fairly average food and rude and pretentious staff. Steak frites was tough and tasteless. Place lacks any atmosphere. I would have given no stars if it was an option. Don't go unless you are 70+ years old
(1)
Penni P.
I met a friend for lunch that had recently moved from San Diego to Chicago...did I happen to mention it was only 16 degrees? Now for the review. The place is very charming and the staff is super nice and VERY accommodating. We had an infant with us and they were very helpful. We had the escargot...delish, especially dipping the bread in the butter. The Caesar was very good, lots of anchovy flavor...yummmm. My friend got the onion suop...super cheesy and she loved it. We also ordered the Salmon dill crepe...if you love creme fraishe you will love this. It had a lot of Salmon and too much creme for my personal taste. I also ordered the creme brulee. One of the best ones yet. Just a little light lunch for the girls =)
(4)
H W.
The laid back authentic atmosphere is great. Lisa the bartender, rocks this experience, and the waiter was superb. The food so good, and prepared perfectly. Definitely will be returning.
(5)
Stothe H.
Lousy experience here. Food was good but we made the mistake of sitting at the bar and for whatever reason, the bartender - Lisa - a woman with very short brown hair, decided that she hated us but loved everyone else who we assumed must be regulars. The people sitting next to us said, "Oh Lisa is a mixologist, ask her to make you something special!", so when we asked for her suggestion on a drink using tequila and orange she said, "Ugh, I don't know, I hate tequila so I don't make those drinks". Umm, okay. The mood was chilly throughout and finally just turned cold to the point where we knew we were not welcome. It's a shame because the food was good and we all like French cuisine but no food is worth feeling like you're an unwelcome sack if merde. I actually called the restaurant because we wanted to go back and try it again this weekend so I asked if she was working - when I realized I was talking to a manager (he identified himself as a co-owner) I told him I was asking if Lisa was working because she was so rude to us and we didn't want to come back if she would be there. He said, "yes, she's working on Friday", to which I replied, "Well I guess we won't come in because she was very clear that she hated us" and he said, "OK"... Well screw you dude. I'll take my cash elsewhere! Businesses aren't run the way they used to be and a place like that shouldn't be proud of a mean bartender. Lisa, who hurt you!?!? To Maison we go!
Everything about this place was beautiful. The windows open onto the street, the layout, the floor, the plate of fruit (a suggestion made by the waiter, which actually is the best thing a waiter has ever suggested, because every brunch needs fruit), the waiters themselves, and finally, the food. Brioche french toast with vanilla mascarpone hit the spot. The poached eggs were perfectly cooked, and the hollandaise was light and tasty, not the buttery mass you sometimes get. Fresh spinach, fresh smoked salmon, etc. etc. A true quality-not-quantity breakfast worth every penny (it's slightly more expensive than our original destination, the pancake house). Rubbish coffee but that's to be expected. If the dinners are as well executed as the breakfast, it's worth an evening visit. This seems to be genuine french fare cooked really well and served in an authentic bistro-y atmosphere.
(5)
Aashish J.
Who can say no to fogra? This place is so goooood...quails and lentils, snails dipped in garlic/butter and fogra; yes fogra for appetizer...grilled salmon on spinach and mushroom for entree...creme brule for dessert! What else can one ask for? A little heavy on the wallet but you gotta do that once in a while :D Thumbs up: 1. Food: delicious 2. Ambiance: not too loud; good for dates or for a small group 3. Service: nice, courteous servers Thumbs down: 1. Price: $$$!
(4)
Alicia Y.
I went for dinner to Bistro Zinc, which was pretty good. I wish I could give it a 3.5 star rating but its not quite a 4. Food, service and wine were all good, nothing exceptional. I enjoyed the steak frites I got - i would recommend this spot to others.
(3)
Saira K.
Lovely place. I love French food, and the food here doesn't disappoint (you can't go wrong) - neither does the ambiance - and I enjoyed chatting with my super-cute server (he's really an actor working here part-time and...my friend) and looking at the artwork with him.
(4)
Mark D.
I had another delectable dinner at Bistro Zinc last night. This is my favorite neighborhood restaurant because 1) it's basically outside my front door, and 2) the food is *always* delicious. Tonight my friend and I ordered the escargot BZ to start and it was excellent, as always. I ordered the Vol-au-Vent (Stew du jour in puff pastry, creème fraîche mashed potatoes) and he ordered the Steak au Poivre (Peppercorn crusted New York strip steak with crème fraîche mashed potatoes, haricots verts, cognac-cream sauce). Mine was delicious and perfect for a cold Fall evening. The pastry was light and fluffy, the mashed potatoes were creamy, and the vegetables were fresh. There was a perfect amount of really tender lamb in the stew. My friend said his steak was cooked perfectly. For dessert, my friend ordered the creme brulee which I tried and it was amazing. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (Vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce). I think I may have moaned a few times while I ate it.
(5)
Timothy G.
I have been a customer of this french cafe for years, and always go 1-2 times year, and always enjoy it. The atmosphere is great, and when you need a French fix, that is authentic, this is it. Can be a tad pricey with wine, but what is not these days, the Sturgeon is very good, mussels are always a treat, and i am sucker for the crepes, streak frites and the salmon...enjoy.
(5)
M R.
My favorite restaurant in the neighborhood. The coziest ambiance and great food with reasonable prices.
(5)
Reb R.
Came here during restaurant week last week. Service is AMAZING! They come to your table when you need them and always helpful with questions you have about the menu. I asked them about this dish on their restaurant week menu and the waiter sold it and I bought it! Amazing dish. Food is delicious. From the french onion soup to the dessert, everything is good. And we ordered 2 bottles of Sauvignon Blanc that the waiter let our guest taste before serving. Definitely worth trying.
(3)
Jennie T.
I came here today with a fellow yelper and friend for brunch. I ordered the potato leek soup (their special of the day) and half the gigot d'agneau (lamb) sandwich. The bread and butter that they served us was delicious. The butter was soft and creamy. I don't like it when the butter is hard-to-spread, so today's butter was really, really good. Loved it. I also always enjoy a freshly squeezed cup of orange juice. I always worry about ordering soup at non-Asian restaurants because I think westerners have a tendency to add milk to soups, and well I'm a bit lactose-intolerant. Our server told me that there's a little bit of cream but not much in the potato leek soup, and he was right. It was very delicious. I'm glad I ordered it as opposed to the french onion soup (my friend got that, and it looked really, really cheesy to me). I've also never had a lamb sandwich before, which is why I ordered it. And to my surprise, it was really good too. The meat was tender and juicy. I really liked the watercress that was in the sandwich too. It was a good combination of ingredients. I was pleasantly surprised. The only thing that I didn't like was the potato chips that came with my order. It tasted a little overdone -- imagine almost burnt fries... I probably ate roughly two chips and decided that I didn't want the rest. And actually, I think it turned out well that I didn't like the chips because my friend and I were both very full after we finished our meal. I definitely felt the need to walk it off a little bit afterwards.
(5)
Jane Z.
The cuisine and atmosphere are authentically French, but the service was authentically Midwestern -- exceptionally hospitable and gracious! The entire staff was very accommodating, suggesting some great architectural and cultural attractions to visit. They treated the two 12 year-old boys I was taking out with courtesy and respect, which the boys were only too happy to return. From the French onion soup and the steak and frites to the salad with scallops and fennel, the food was outstanding -- and the prices were very reasonable!
(5)
Art V.
Made reservation on a Friday night for 9pm. The place was slowly clearing out at about 10 most tables were empty. The weather was perfect which allowed them to open the French doors allowing a breeze and city noise into the restaurant. The bar was still full when we left about 11. There was no push to get us out at the end of our late dinner. I'll let all other reviews inform about how great the food was, frankly I could have cared less I was more interested in finding a laid back environment in which I could share a romantic evening chatting and sipping wine. This place was just what I was looking for and I'd highly recommend it if your looking for an evening like mine.
(5)
Reiahnna J.
The outside of the restaurant looks so French. The window to the restaurant is open so you can get a good view of the street. Some women with French hairstyles and clothes were close to the window and made it look really French. We were seated right away. I've been to a French restaurant before (La Sardine) and this food tasted more authentic. If you like sharing, I recommend the Poulet Grand Mère. That's a half-chicken (roasted and grandmother-style), smoked bacon, mushrooms, Parisian potatoes, pearl onions and roasted garlic in a rosemary-garlic jus. Delicious and feeling. To drink, I had some blanc de blanc champagne, but after trying some of my mom's oragina, I wished I ordered that. Refreshing! I've never tried that soda before. I went into the bathroom to see if it was clean and saw that the last bathroom had a vase of flowers. So sweet! Also, are those faucets gold or bronze? I think bronze. But beware, there's a picture of nude women's backsides in the main room. A warning for squirmy Americans...unless that's what you like.
(5)
John R.
Loved the food. Not cheap, but tastes great.
(4)
Ali B.
Bonjour, j'adore ESCARGOT, wee! Bistro Zinc is the kind of place that you would see in a movie. There is no glitz & glam but a traditional French approach-a neighborhood restaurant people have been going for years (w/good clientele). It is warm, welcoming and always busy. We sat in the back feasting on Escargot while sipping wine. (Escargot BZ: French snails, herb garlic butter, Pernod, pesto crumbs). The Escargot was fantastic and served in very French style! I would definitely go back and see what else this restaurant has to offer. Good for a meeting, 3rd date or later and to catch up with a girlfriend.
(3)
Fe T.
Checked in here the other day for lunch. I ordered what most yelpers recommended - the lamb sandwich. It's amazing. The waffle fries are tasty and the service is good too. People here are very friendly. They play great music. I will definitely come back here if I want to take a friend out for lunch. The price is reasonable. This is a must-check-out place!
(5)
Lee K.
Worthy of 4 1/2 stars. This is one of the best French restaurants we've dined at. Our family of four agreed it served us the best French onion soup and mussels in light cream sauce. We really liked all of our entrees including baked fish and roast chicken. Excellent ambiance and service. I would have given it a solid 5 stars if the menu was more varied and included some creative dishes.
(4)
michael b.
Great food, service, and a comfortable welcoming atmosphere, this place is a new favorite. Very reasonable and a true local gem... see you there!
(5)
A H.
This place is a treat for a sunny Sunday brunch. It's so adorable inside, and I almost felt like I was in France. If only! The place is bright, and there's plenty of things to admire and notice on the walls. The food was terrific, and I highly recommend the brioche french toast with the vanilla mascarpone cream topping. Yum! I also spied some delicious looking crepes at the table next to us. I want to go back and try one of those and the Croque Monsieur. Bonus: they take reservations for brunch!
(4)
R T.
Cheerful place with a casual atmosphere and the usual super tiny tables (Sometimes, I think downtown Chicago must be peopled by Lilliputians). I wasn't too happy with the faux French maitre de, with the snooty beret and matching attitude, who seated us right next to the front door on the chilliest day. I think she took the stereotype literally. The menu's not extensive, Classic fare- crepes and the like. Brunch prices were reasonable. My friend really enjoyed her lamb stew vol au vent dish. I might go back to try it.
(3)
David T.
another favorite of ours ,,, so far the best weekend brunch place we have found. The eggs Benedict are a winner. Atmosphere is friendly, and in the summer , with the front windows open its a great place to eat and watch the crowd go by. We have been there for dinner twice , the first time was excellent , the second time my steak could of doubled for shoe leather. If I was the kind of guy that sends back food, i would of that time ..... but I'm not... might have just been an off night for them and the butcher ! Brunch is a home run though every time !
(4)
Sierra M.
Everything pleasant.
(4)
Gfiddy F.
Enjoy champagne or vino at this casual and very French bistro.
(5)
johnny b.
It was fine I just wouldn't go back unless someone else was paying.
(2)
shawn f.
Good food, nice atmosphere, excellent service..... nuff said
(5)
Jason S.
I used to live in Chicago several years ago, and the Bistrot Zinc located on the Northside (southport) used to be a favorite of my wife and I. I was pleased to see that they still have a downtown location when I returned to Chicago for business. I'd talked two of my co-workers into coming and we all enjoyed ourselves. They each had the pan-roasted chicken breast with mustard cream and I had the hanger steak with the barley mushroom ragout.. The service was efficient and friendly. My friends who were less familiar with Bistro food were welcomed and had their questions answered. Both the apple tart and the almond-butter cake with lemon curd were excellent. All in all a fair value and good ambiance for an enjoyable evening. Good French food without having to drip with pretension.
(4)
Lauren K.
I had the quiche (gruyere, bacon and leeks) with petit salad and creme brulee for dessert. Very good - a little expensive for lunch, but I guess you have to consider location.
(4)
Amy B.
I truly enjoyed my Sunday brunch!! Wonderful atmosphere, efficient service and great food!! My friend and I both enjoyed our choices. The french toast brioche with vanilla mascarpone and strawberries was divine. The omelette with gruyere, mushrooms and spinach was paired perfectly with mixed greens. Yum!! The menu had many choices and I can't wait to go back and enjoy more!! Just a bit of a warning. The brunch cocktails, mimosa and bloody mary, cost just as much as the entrees. That was a bit unexpected.
(4)
Joe J.
Went just this morning (re: Noon) for brunch and had the Brioche french toast with marscapone and a side of potatoes. Left full and definitely satisfied. The interior is nice as well, looking upscale but cozy at the same time. No complaints about the place. Prices were average as well.
(5)
Samantha L.
I came here with friends today for a Sunday brunch. I had the Croque Monsuier, which I cannot spell. Basically, it's a sandwich with French ham and cheese. It was quite delicious, though the fries were not that good (which disappointed the potato-lover in me). The restaurant looks nice and classy, and though it's not cheap, it's not as expensive as the restaurant looks like it would maybe be.
(4)
Jennifer K.
Oh, this is just a wonderful place! I've been looking for a great French stop for lunch, and this fit the bill. I had the poulet grand mere, and it was succulent. The broth was not too salty, with lightly simmered vegetables. And the chicken was moist, not dry. For dessert, I had crepe with nutella and banana - marvelous. The price came up to be $30, and I thought it was well spent. I really like the fact that the place has a very laid back vibe to it. The staff is attentive. And the music is soft, yet lively...basically, the ambience is great! I brought a book with me and read while enjoying lunch.
(4)
Stryker C.
Kick ass real, actual French bistrot food. This IS the kind of thing you'd experience in france and the neighborhood bistrot. I can't say enough, anytime I make it to Chicago, I will make sure to get to this place. It ain't a snobby, high-priced bullshit place...it's real, quality french food in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere...take a step into a little window of France and try this place.
(5)
Paul R.
Yum. Brioche French Toast, as well as Nutella/Banana Crepes... mimosas, coffee. What more could you want when you can no longer catch a Concorde to CDG for petit dejeuner. Charming atmosphere reminiscent of Parisian cafes. Excellent service... tres bein!
(4)
Ira S.
Looks very nice, with the sexiest (in a tasteful way) painting I ever remember seeing in a restaurant. The service is elegant and swift (maybe too swift-- after all, one needs time to appreciate the painting). The food-- more Eastern European than French-- is competently cooked, but falls short of ecstatic. In short, I can't give above a 3 when I like my own cooking better.
(3)
Barry P.
Great ambience, great service, great food. My favorite restaurant to have a lovely dinner with my wife. The mussels are the best in the city, IMHO.
(5)
Martha Z.
I've always wondered where I could go for French onion soup on my lunch break. Thanks to my foodie co-worker, she pointed me to Bistro Zinc. This place has the perfect lunch atmosphere. Quiet and spacious. The wait staff was very hospitable. My french onion soup, amazing. I also enjoyed part of the croque monsieur. A bit on the pricey side, but perfect for the occasional lunch time treat.
(4)
Brenda T.
I love this place! It is very consistant, the service is great thanks to Joey, and Dave... and the manager Michael is adorable. You can't really find anything on the menu that you won't love. If you do the bar there are great home-made waffle chips, and hard boiled eggs to snack on while Joey shakes the perfect martini.
(5)
Nicholas G.
Delicious food in a classy but not pretentious atmosphere. My gf and I often come here for brunch/lunch on the weekend. I usually end up ordering a glass of champagne, french onion soup, and then a sandwich, all of which is consistently great. I also absolutely love the people watching here! You see everything, from fallen socialites (or at least that's the story the charming little old lady who sat next to me at the bar once told me), to flamingly obvious homosexual designers and the rich ladies who employ them, to the usual Gold Coast suspects walking buy the street outside. The staff is usually very friendly as well, though it can occasionally take awhile to get your food, but never obnoxiously long. If you don't have time to enjoy your meal, there is a Subway, Corner Bakery, and Chipolte near by to provide you with fast food.
(4)
Brian C.
The French onion soup is outstanding, as others have already mentioned on here. Aside from that, my steak frites was pretty average. The house gamay was nothing special, either. It was a disappointing meal for what I spent, anyway. If the soup was only average, I would have dropped a star from this rating.
(3)
Morris F.
Bistrot Zinc is a dependable neighborhood spot with good food, great service, and upscale prices. Our most recent weekday evening visit was typical. We shared the grilled sardine appetizer with roasted red peppers; the sardines were tastily done and the peppers (tasted store-bought) mitigated their saltiness. One of has the onion soup as a next course, and this is probably one of the best things on the menu, a slightly sweet beef broth with plenty of onion baked with a deliciously cheesy crouton on top. Yum! The other had mussels, which are cooked in a creamy, garlicy broth and wonderful to eat with Zinc's delicious bread. The steak frites were just fine, with the meat cooked exactly as ordered, tender and tasty, but at the price a little undersized. 2/3 of the plate was covered with the frites, which are quite good. The trout served on a bed of spinach was just OK, the trout was nicely cooked but it needed something - salt helped. The spinach was also cooked just right, but it gets cold before you eat it. It also needed something - a good sized wedge of lemon on the plate would help. Next time I'd go with a different dish. We enjoyed a good bottle of merlot ($39, one of the lowest-priced on the menu) with our meal and finished with coffee. The tab for two, including a generous tip for our server, came to $150. If you're looking to enjoy the ambience at a lower cost, soup and salad makes a good option, or try one of the "lighter" dishes listed on the menu. I've never experienced attitude from waitstaff when ordering a lighter meal. When busy, Bistro Zinc can be extremely noisy and at those times, it will be very conversation challenging.
(3)
Brittany M.
After living in France for a bit, it's difficult to readjust to American dining. Thank god for Bistrot Zinc. The restaurant is adorable. We were able to walk in without a reservation on a Thursday night. How excited was I when I saw they had kir! There entrees are consistently good; my salmon was delicious and the escargot - pure heaven.
(4)
Sophia L.
I've only been to Chicago a few times, but I always make at least a quick stop here. It's great for something light or brunch - or just as a place to take in the scene. I love bistros and bistro-fare, and Bistro Zinc is definitely a keeper!
(4)
Sarah M.
Just had a lovely lunch at Bistrot Zinc. I had the 1/2 sandwich and soup - truffled egg salad and a chilled potato soup. Perfect for a warm day; filling but not heavy. My husband had the lamb sandwich, which he said was excellent. The service was attentive, and the windows that open onto State St. make it a really nice place for an early summer lunch. We will be back.
(4)
John M.
3.5 stars as I've only been once for brunch, but definitely worth a visit. The past two years we've met friends for brunch on Christmas Eve, and last year we went to Le Creperie. It was quite busy when we arrived but with a reservation we were seated promptly once everyone showed up and the service was very good. We were taken care of by the bartender (which sometimes can go either way) and it was an enjoyable experience. Everyone enjoyed their food, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to try escargot (which - by the way - was very good - dip your bread in after they're gone for added flavor). Had a bottle of brut rose to top things off, overall a very pleasant and tasty experience.
(4)
Terri K.
Good food-- GREAT DESSERT :) Very nice decor, pleasant staff and overall welcoming atmosphere.
(4)
H K.
Dinner (Thursday night): Having been to France, I could not wait to try this restaurant. Service: Fast and friendly Menu Selection is very very small, I had no choice but to order the ham and cheese. Food: The cheese plate is very good. My ham and cheese sandwich is okay, as for the " fries" I would rather go to McDonald's. If you do go, in the winter do not seat by the window, its freezing and over crowed.
(3)
Susan S.
I have been here numerous times and the service is always superb and I love the ambiance. Truly like a French Bistro, especially in the summer when the windows are open. Try to sit near them. I love escargot, although this is not my favorite on their menu as it has almost a little too much garlic in it. The crepes are excellent, the coffee divine (intelligensia) as my sister says, and if you want something light and healthy, the fruit plate is very refreshing. I just love coming here for the feel of it, as it is never a bad experience.
(4)
A.S. V.
What's great about this Parisian style Bistrot is that it isn't overly fancy. It's comfortable, and not insanely expensive. Try the dessert crepes with Intelligentsia coffee.
(4)
Charlie M.
The service is phenomenal. The food is very authentic and its just a fabulous place to enjoy lunch. I had the vegetable tagine and thought it was marvelous. Please note, I just moved back from Cairo and I know Middle-eastern cuisine and this was right on the money. The price was fair and it wasn't loud or too stuffy. Basically, if you're looking for a good restaurant for lunch, this is the perfect place in the area. Enjoy!
(5)
Bonnie B.
The atmosphere is great and the service was good, but the food was so blah. I was really disappointed in the Salade Nicoise. My lunch companion said his sandwich was "just ok." It is too bad because it really is a cute place.
(3)
Bryan C.
This place was really good! It was very casual, very comfortable. I loved the atmosphere. Perfect french bistro feel to it, very laid back. Because it was my first time here, I wanted to have a classic french meal. We started with the escargot which was just delicious! So rich and flavorful. They kept on bringing us more bread to sop up all the yummy sauce! It was great! For my entree, I ordered the steak frites. The steak could have been a bit rarer, but that's my personal taste. It wasn't overcooked at all. I had to add a lot of salt to the fries, but I'd rather do that than have them come out over seasoned. They also had a great wine menu and the server was very attentive without being obnoxious. I especially loved the atmosphere of this restaurant. It was just really "cute" I guess you could say. If you're ever in the mood for some classic french bistro food in a super comfortable atmosphere, Bistro Zinc is worth checking out.
(4)
Andrew T.
I thought the food here for dinner was really good and service was almost impeccable. The fries/chips they have at the bar are quite unique. I had to take 'em to the table though, since they don't serve them at the table. I also had a coupon from the mail, so that added to the experience.
(3)
Rachael W.
Let's just say I've earned enough American Advantage Dining Miles eating at Bistrot Zinc to go on a free domestic trip. And at this rate, I'll have enough miles for an international flight by summer. A culinary trip through France, perhaps? But seriously, I've never had a bad meal or experience at Bistrot Zinc. For brunch, the yogurt, fruit and granola crepe is delicious and nutritious. Their daily quiche/salad combo is superbly rich yet light, which means there's always room for dessert. The chocolate crepe with vanilla ice cream is my favorite, but the banana nutella crepe is a close runner up. The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing with a quiet energy that makes it perfect for enjoying conversation with friends or dining alone with a good book. The service is fast and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I do wish they had a wider selection of wines by the glass, but perhaps that's just because I'm there so much that I've had them all several times over. The impeccable food, service and ambiance more than make up for it and keep me coming back to Bistrot Zinc time and time again.
(5)
Christine L.
I always love going to this restaurant, and have tried many French restaurants in the city. I've tried their brunch as well as dinner, and I prefer dinner as the brunch doesn't have very many choices. It's great for a date or with family. Reasonable prices, delicious food, and great specials. The service is always good and it's not usually too crowded, especially for a restaurant in the Rush/State St. area., but it's nice and cozy which I love!
(4)
Jeff Y.
i'm not a huge fan of french food, but when i need my fix i usually head over to bistrot zinc. they have all the usual french fare full of cream, butter, cheeses and anything else that can clog your arteries. be sure to try the mussels if you're into that sort of thing. i would definitely recommend this place more for lunch than dinner and the big, open dining area makes it good for groups as well. personally i like this place more than bistrot margot, but both are good choices if you're craving some cuisine française.
(3)
melissa h.
This place is good - I was pleasantly surprised. The staff was super friendly and attentive and the bread and butter were great. Our meals came quickly and they did not scoff that I had a take out coffee from a few moments ago. I would definitely eat there again. Later on in the afternoon they opened the windows to create a more open ambiance and thought to myself that would be a great place to people watch and have a little libation of sorts.
(5)
Ronnie V.
Yum. I met some friends for lunch here a few weeks ago and really had a good time. The service was pretty good and the atmosphere was pretty much exactly what I would expect from a bistro(t) at the end of Rush. But who cares about all that? Let's discuss the important things - the food. I had a lamb sandwich and I might be able to describe it as amazing. The lamb was perfect and the whole sandwich rocked (normally I'd say I'm getting sick of aioli but it worked well here) and the sandwich came with a pile of chips that were cut in a reall odd way but passed for a side. I tried a bite of the cheeseburger (royale apparently, hello Pulp Fiction) and of the quiche. All 3 were.... awesome. The only thing I was not wowed by was the cheese and sausage appetizer and the wines were ok but fairly priced. The whole menu sounded delicious and I will most definitely go back for brunch. Overall, very well priced and delicious food.
(4)
Eli R.
This was my fifth, and very likely last, visit. What's happened? The place seems to have gone downhill. A lot. First few visits were fine. The inside is quaint and the menu offered a reasonable bistro fare. Something must've gone wrong in the kitchen. Who said that salt and excessive spice are substitutes for subtle flavor? And, contrary to a common misconception, vast quantities of butter alone can't rescue a mediocre dish. Yet these are the tricks on which the chef seems to rely. How about a French Onion Soup that neither contains any onion nor is a soup? I love cheese as much as anyone, but a clay pot full of molten tasteless cheese-like substance does not make me a happy diner. And if you want to offer a tagine, please get the flavors right! Walking out after a meal, I felt an undesirable aftertaste, not to say nausea. On top of it, I was not crazy about the service, although it has been quite good in the past. The verdict - I'm done with Zinc for a while and can't recommend it to you.
(2)
Ren H.
This is a great little french place in the heart of the gold coast! Its a prime location for shopping and bar hopping and their food is actually really tasty!
(4)
steve h.
great french place thats not too hard on the wallet. of course had to sample their escargot (which was up to par) decided to go with their tongue which was done nicely (very 'sharp' in flavor and tender in texture). it was tour de france week when i went, so they were kind of celebrating it, but cmon..nobody really cares. i know they didn't. heh. anyways, good fare here. worth a visit or two.
(4)
Kelly I.
I was really looking forward to brunch here. howeve, I found it to be extremely disappointing. I love french food. I love brunch. However the service was so poor that I will never come back. Good service can make up for bad food but bad service can really leave a bad taste in your mouth.
(2)
Sohini K.
It's in my neighborhood, and so I tend to go oftener than I would otherwise, given the somewhat sparse choice of good & cheap places to eat in the Gold Coast area. The food is pretty good - the French onion soup, in particular, but it hasn't been stellar. The service has been mixed - on one occassion my friend and I received no service for at least 15 minutes after we were seated, and then it took about an hour for my food to come. It was for Sunday brunch, but the place wasn't that crowded! On another occasion we ordered the mussels, which turned out to be bad. The waiter sent for another batch and that too wasn't that much better. In the end they took it off our tab. All in all, it's a good option for the neighborhood, but not the best in the city.
(3)
Michelle R.
Go for breakfast. They have THE best french toast EVER. Period.
(5)
Brandon H.
I agree with what most everyone here has said. Great French food in a wonderful atmosphere that does without the stuffiness and price tag. The wine selection is sufficient but not extensive, and the deserts are some of the best I've had at a French restaurant in Chicago.
(4)
rachel p.
i really liked this place. it's a cute french bistro with cheerful yellow walls, white tablecloths and a marble bar. the service was friendly and attentive. and the food--at least for brunch--was light and yummy. they bring out some fabulous crusty on the outside, chewy on the inside bread to start. we pretty much went to town on this. i had a basic breakfast--my scrambled eggs were moist--i hate when they're overcooked and dried out. the roasted potatoes were lovely, bite size with just enough crunch. and i had some of the best bacon here i've ever had. it wasn't very fatty and had a relaly yummy smokiness to it. the husband got a ham and cheese omelette with that delicious french style swiss. my mimosa was more champagne that OJ--always a plus, and the husband's bloody mary was really well prepared too. this was definitely a good find.
(4)
Misi P.
Relatively unimpressed with the food. I have high standards for French, cuisine and this place just didn't cut it. The food was bland and uninspiring and their bread was tooth-splitting. Neither I or my friend enjoyed our meals here. I would like to give them 2.5 stars because their service was good, but I won't eat here again.
(2)
s b.
After trying Bistro Zinc recently for the first time, I must say that it is somehow a nice, quaint restaurant, despite it's bustling location. The food was great, but more than anything, our server made the night a truly lovely experience. He was the nicest man--checking on us routinely to make sure we were "comfortable" (as he put it), without crossing that line of constant interruption/feeling like you're being rushed. I had the braised lamb, and it tasted very good. My only complaint would be that I am used to braised lamb that falls apart at the touch of a fork, whereas I actually found this lamb to be a bit tough as I tried to cut it. Since I found the piece I was given to be a bit more fatty than I'm used to, the meat's toughness made it a bit difficult to cut around the fat. However, the flavor was great. Again, our server really topped off the experience, and I would love to go back again.
(4)
M. C.
This place is just so cute...like a little Parisian cafe. Plus, the food is just as great as the ambiance. So far, I've only been there for brunch, and both things that I've tried were top-notch: the Brioche French Toast and the Omelette with Spinach, Mushrooms, & Gruyere Cheese. I can't wait until I can go back for a lunch sandwich someday. I'm dying to try the Croque Monsieur.
(4)
M S.
Was served food with MOLD growing on it! Both hostess and waiter immediately apologized and replaced my plate, but the manager came out to very loudly insist (for the horrified customers around me) that the mold I saw was not actually mold, but a "mousse" that brushed onto the plate. Funny that the mold I, my boyfriend, the hostess and waiter saw was fuzzy and white.... (I would recommend staying away from any "mousse" they serve here as well!) The manager insisted that I was mistaken, and made a big deal about how they would "of course" replace the dish, as if she was doing me a huge favor. Would look elsewhere if you want to enjoy a healthy, fungus-free meal.
(1)
K. J.
After the nice brioche French toast I had at 312, I decided to give the French toast here a try. It was just ok. I thought that the service was not bad and someone came by to fill our water often. Not as many people here as I thought that there would be on a Sunday morning so we were seated right away. The biggest problem was that the person I was dining with ordered the brie and spinach crepe, yet ended up getting what appeared to be an omelet. After speaking to someone who had been there before, it appears that she received the wrong dish, because it certainly did not seem to be a traditional crepe (or they accidentally put way too many eggs in the crepe batter). For that maybe they should get docked a star, but mistakes happen and we didn't complain. Nice atmosphere.
(3)
Takelya W.
really good food here. i enjoy the 'escargots BZ' or in other words, french snails, herb garlic, pernod
I love Bistro Zinc. I've been here for Sunday brunch several times. It is especially lovely during the warmer months when the windows in the front are all open. My favorite dishes here are the spinach, mushroom and gruyere cheese omlet & the yogurt and granola crepe. Everything is delicious though, I've also tried the brioche french toast and the eggs benedict. You really cannot go wrong here.
(5)
Samuel O.
Easily the best bistro I have been to in Chicago. The cassoulet is money.
(5)
mary o.
had brunch here this past Sunday. The weather was nice so the front windows were wide open and there was a 4-top table right in front. The host started walking us towards the back so i requested to be seated at the front and she obliged..Why didn't she just sit us there in the first place? Anyways I had the spinach mushroom cheese omelet which was quite lovely, served with a small amount of nicely dressed greens. Had a great mimosa, and ordered a second which my waiter never brought, I don't think he heard me. Probably for the best, really didn't need it. My dining companion had the fruit/yogurt crepe that was really nice, though not your traditional french fare. I like the ambiance and setting of the place, it's a cute little neighborhood find.
(4)
Michele K.
Today I planned a Mom/Daughter day and our afternoon began at Bistrot Zinc. I have nothing but great things to say about this place! My Mom had the Ham&Cheese (Croque Monsieur) I think even the outside of the bread was crisped in gruyere cheese, delish! with a hefty serving of Pomme Frites to boot! I had the 1/2 soup and sandwich, grilled cheese(Croque Fromage) and baked french onion! I wish I had left overs so I could be eatting it again fantastic!! Bleu cheese in the grilled cheese! wonderful! ALso one of the best french onion soups I have had in awhile if ever! We split the chocolate cake with carmel sauce and side of fresh whipped cream. HEAVEN wish I could bath in that whipped cream,(Gateau au Chocolat) Highly reccommend this for lunch! I hope to go back to try dinner and brunch its an adorable restaurant that made us feel welcomed and comfy and our server was a doll! My Mom & I will def be making this a regular lunch spot for future Mom/Daughter days :)
(5)
P S.
It's not amazing, but the food is tasty and the atmosphere is fun.
(4)
Meredith C.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc with my family for Easter brunch, which was great. It's such a charming restaurant with great french food. The crepes are wonderful. I had the fruit and granola crepe. The tomato basil soup is a must! It also opens its front windows during the summer time which makes you feel even more like you are at a bistro in Provence...and it's great for people-watching in the Gold Coast area! This is great for a charming meal on the weekend or during the week with the family or for a date.
(4)
Gail T.
cute little restaurant in a nice neighborhood. wasn't impressed with the food. a good deal of my creme brulee was burned and you know what it tastes like when the top part of this desert is close to ashes. it was whatever and wasn't feeling a good vibe between the waitress and i. i don't wanna say snobby b/c its too forward but she was along this line. if you decide to go the best time is in the summer when the front of the restaurant has its windows open french provincial style. hence, get a window seat.
(3)
Joe S.
Surprise, a great restaurant within the Rush Street area. Solid bistro fare, sensible prices, tasty frisee salad, good pate, charcuterie plate. Housemade waffle chips at the zinc topped bar are addictive. Nice soups. Good cassoulet, chicken grand-mere style. Nice wine list but not as extensive as you'd hope. Tasty butter, a must in a bistro. No pretension despite it's proximity to the meat markets nearby. Steak Frites very good. Above average desserts. Windows open when it's nice out.
(4)
Design G.
I am going to stand tall and say that I like this place. Is it the best French place in the city? No-- but that's not why you should go. Go because the staff is great, warm welcoming and make you feel like you actually matter! True story: this was a couple years ago but my honey and I used to frequent the place all the time-- it was around the corner from where we resided and it wasn't outrageously expensive and it was good, comforting fare minus the attitude or gold-digger factor of most Viagra Triangle venues. Well, after a few months the very sweet lady who would greet us at the door came over to our table one night and handed us a gift certificate for a very kind sum. It was SO unexpected and SO sweet. We have a tendency to be very loyal but never because we ever expect anything but good service and this was just too kind. If you want to go somewhere to feel valued and have a relaxing lunch or dinner with your girlfriend or honey, look no further.
(5)
Kay K.
Tried Bistrot Zinc for lunch. Although the food was high quality and unique and the prices were in the 15-25 range, I thought it was not palatable enough for me to give a 5 star. I had the chicken. Also, the service was a bit slow. It was a slow day, but it took a few extra minutes for the waiter to serve us.
(4)
Jean L.
I moved to Chicago three years ago and have wanted to try this place since. I walked by it on my way to school every day and the open window/air dining was so enticing. But it seemed that every time I wanted to go, I always seemed to be rushing off to somewhere. But I finally got a chance to go! And I was excited. I walked in the door, and the host saw me and my dining partner walk in, turned around, and started fixing something on a table? ..umm... So we waited for a few seconds and he came back and sighed and said "Two?"..."yes please?" The waiter started us off with bread. And it was far from good. Just really bland, cheap bread with butter. But it was free, and who am I to complain? My dining partner ordered a chicken and mushroom crepe that was really quite good! On the other hand, i ordered a shrimp pasta of sorts that was the fishiest thing I have ever eaten. My dining partner was convinced it was just from really old shrimp that had gone bad and forbade me to eat any more. So bottom line? I'm really torn. It was just such a let down. I was expecting much more and got so much less than I expected.
(2)
F D.
Just dined here tonight. Love the quaint atmosphere, if only they would play french music instead of American pop, the ambience would be complete. Although, our waiter left much to be desired in terms of service. Very slow and neglectful, and the place was only 25% occupied. Unfortunately I didn't try some of the more popular dishes - regretting that. We started with the duck pate and ratatouille. The pate was fine, ratatouille was extremely overcooked and tasted like it had been reheated a dozen times. Then I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, terrible mistake, not good at all. Taste-less boiled chicken, thrown in the oven to crisp the skin, over a bed of gravy with pearl onions, baby potatoes, and bacon. Flavors didn't mesh well at all, I ended up picking out the pieces of bacon and potatoes instead. My companion had the onion soup, very nice and flavorful. We ended with the almond butter cake and it was pretty good. A little dry, could've used a butter sauce over it, but the flavor was good. All in all, I'd go back, but definitely try other dishes.
(3)
Craig R.
My wife and I have been here a number of times considering its close proximity to our old apartment. My thoughts: -Very great atmosphere, traditional French decor, quiet and classy -There's no TV at the bar so the bartender talks to you which is awesome -It's super easy to walk in any weeknight and just sit down which is great -The wait staff is really on top of it, very attentive and helpful -It is quite accessible, 22/36/Red Line all drop off right near it -The two food highlights from my side are: --The mussels are an easy 5/5 for me, ask for extra bread to dip!! --The Croque Monsiuer is a 4/5, I like the bread crispier --All other food has been tasty, these are just the most memorable I will definitely be back again in the future.
(4)
Ray M.
Great French atmosphere inside. Busy and bustling staff pacing back and forth to satisfy customers needs. Elegant menu with just the correct amount of food offerings to satisfy even those that are not too familiar with French cuisine. Nice looking rustic bar area and beautify appointed art work and Parisian decor throughout the restaurant creating a very comfortable elegance. Ordered the French onion soup, mussels and quiche. Great descriptions of each item on the menu really romances your desire to try everything!
(4)
Brett H.
If you like French food, this place is a must. Very elegant decor. Good wine menu. This visit we shared some Pate' and Steak Tartare, both of which were very good. For dinner, I had the Bouillabaisse, which was excellent. My wife had the Pan Seared Duck Breast which was good but a little over cooked. She ordered medium rare and it was medium to medium well. For dessert, I highly recommend the Profiterolies. The Almond butter cake with macerated berries is also very good. Great place for a quiet romantic dinner.
(4)
Jessica C.
Get. The. Mussels. Everything is good here and you feel like you're in Paris. Seriously there is no wrong choice here. Allons-y!!
(5)
Lauren C.
Nothing is better than a french breakfast on a Sunday morning. That's why it was so great to find one that was so outstanding during our trip to Chicago. Bistro Zinc was open, easy, and had that french casual atmosphere that makes for a perfect Sunday morning. We each had a cappuccino, which was phenomenal, and shared the eggs benedict and quiche of the day. I can honestly say, that the quiche was one of the best I have ever had. It was a goat cheese mushroom quiche, that was light, cheesy and bright all at the same time. It came with a fresh green salad, and trust me....our plate was practically licked clean. Also, our service was absolutely phenomenal! Our waiter, Chris, was really personal and gave us some city tips for the rest of our stay. He even stayed up on our water intake, which we've learned that being from AZ, is much higher than the average Chicago-an, lol. Definitely looking forward to going back for another classic french brunch next time we are in Chicago!
Cute Decor. Oily Food. Service: we had a bald Italian accent waiter who was very rude (like he was too good for his job), extremely inattentive (had to ask other staff any time we needed anything), caught him in a lie, denied it, even with proof. Next time, if I go back, ask for the fat tall gay guy. He served us more than our actual waiter. What a sweet guy. I would've given this place less stars if he haddn't stepped in. Food: Good, but everything is very butter. Ask for thing to be "dry." Salmon was bland and tasted mostly like it was flash fried. Flank was delicious, but tons of oil as well. Mostly grey hairs (older people).
(3)
Merlin C.
This is seriously the best french restaurant in all of chicago. We had the french onion soup, mussles, and some other thing I forgot the name of but was amazing. Especailly nice if it's a warm day and they have the windows open.
(5)
Conrad S.
Expensive garbage. The wine is massively over priced and low quality. The drinks I had lacked alcohol. Every single drink I ordered was either sugar water or water. My whiskey sour came watered down with club soda in a tall glass. My sidecar came without cognac (brandy is what I think they used). My duck dish was undercooked and inadequately seasoned. Making it a boring $27 dish. The deserts were meh and not at all inspiring. Take your friends to Lou malnatis across the street. It's much better.
So I came for dinner, semi-early on a Friday night. The place wasn't very busy, but by the time we left it was fairly packed. While their menu isn't particularly extensive they do have very good options for dinner. This is my first foray into a restaurant that primarily identifies itself as "French" and I ordered the Poulet Grand Mère, which is basically roasted chicken over a stew of bacon, mushrooms, garlic, and pearl onions. It was a little different than I had anticipated. The jus was a little sweet, but I did like how they had nice soft whole cloves of garlic in the stew (I like garlic). Overall the food was decent, some of us enjoyed our meals better than others, but at their price point I would expect everything to be delicious. It got pretty dark inside while we were there, there were a number of couples there, it is definitely more of a date night place in the evenings. I do like the decor, very French-y. Service was good, while we had one waiter there were a number of people attending to our table of 5. Since others enjoyed their food much more than I did, I would definitely come back to try something else, but I probably wouldn't get my dish again...
(3)
ML ..
Service was rough, neither professional nor pleasant. My onion soup wasn't all that great. I've definitely had better. I can see why they weren't packed when all other restaurants nearby were filled to the max.
(2)
Anthony S.
Great place for fun French food with a pleasant atmosphere. Arugula with dates/bacon/Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette was a light and unique appetizer. Salmon over roasted fennel with smoked tomatoes was amazing. Fennel melted in your mouth and tomatoes were sweet but smoky. Dessert was fabulous mascarpone with berries and mint tea. Felt satiated but not stuffed. $80 for two not including tip.
(5)
Brittany G.
Ian was a fabulous server. The ambiance was smooth music with dim lighting. Perfect for intimate dining
(5)
Robert L.
Honestly the place is awesome. My gripe is that the food is expensive, but you do not get that much of it. I guess it's a French thing, but I didn't feel I got my money's worth.
(3)
Wes Cole C.
This bistro was very patient with me when I tried to perform a magic trick, yanked the table cloth, and sent all of the glassware crashing to the floor. The milk here is good. I like the French fries.
(4)
Shan D.
Underrated spot for brunch. I love their mushroom and Brie crepe. The French toast is great if you want something on the sweeter side. You can also order lunch items if you're not in the breakfast mood. Sadly I haven't been here for dinner.
Came here for my 26th birthday celebration - the restaurant was great about accommodating our larger group (no need for a food/beverage minimum, they didn't mind that some of our party was exceedingly un-punctual, allowed us to pay with multiple credit cards and cash - all while providing quick and friendly service from when we were seated to when we cheerily moved on to post dinner drinks). The food was delightful - I taste a few different appetizers, the mussels were cooked perfectly and in a delicious cream sauce (soaked up the broth with a lot of bread, yum!), the pate with little gherkins, and escargot (happy garlicky wonderfulness). I had the calf's liver - it was cooked perfectly and served over mashed potatoes and topped with fried onion rings. Definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area looking for great French food and exceptional service. Will be back!
(5)
Haley S.
Excellent french bistro. Well prepared steak frites, excellent red wine. My friend and I shared the banana and nutella crepe which was mind blowingly yummy. A good spot for a nice low key dinner on a Saturday night.
(4)
Danny D.
Took the gf here for her birthday. Booked it on opentable and me tioned it h there that it was her bday. Two hours before our reservation I had to push it back a couple of hours and so I called and the hostess made it happen which was great - especially since it was a Friday night. Upon arrival the host and hostess wished my gf a happy bday which was really nice and they saved a table for us in the very crowded restaurant right next to the window. Well done Zinc peeps! The Pork Milanese was amazing. The gf had the trout on spinach and she liked it as I did, but she liked my pork dish better. Chocolate cake was great and came with a birthday candle too - very classy. Great atmosphere and experience - we will be back soon.
Went last Friday evening for a nice dinner with my girlfriend, we live right down the street and hadn't been there yet (even though we've lived in the area for about a year), ambiance was great, servers, bussers were great, food was ok. For the price, the Steak Frites was a total rip off I thought and I am not some rich yuppy. The steak had the consistency of hamburger meat and was really, really thin. My girlfriends meal was good however. She had a ham and cheese melt of some kind. I would return, however, not for the occasion of a nice dinner. If you want a great French dinner, try Mon Ami Gabi in Lincoln Park.
(3)
Chris T.
Stopped by for brunch and left satisfied. I'm not usually a fan of french cuisine (sacre bleu!) but the food, ambience and service were all magnifique. Food: I had the Lamb Sandwich, and the meat was tender and delicious. I ended up taking out the onion from the sandwich, which made it much better in my opinion; the onion was particularly strong. The quiche of the day was also quite good. The day we were there it was bacon and leek quiche. It fills you up! One of the best parts is that when you checkin through four square you get a free cocktail! So don't forget to.
(4)
Michael C.
I really enjoyed the bistrot zinc, pretty fancy looking golden interior with the service staff dressed in all white. We came in 10:30 on a Sunday morning and we happened to be the only ones in the restaurant. Pretty unexpected awesomeness since brunching in Chicago can have nightmare waits. We were seated immediately and brought our menus. The selection is nothing spectacular but had some unique things- the croque monsieur and a lamb sandwich as breakfast dishes which my girlfriend and I both shared. The croque monsieur was a fluffy french toast hamd and cheese sandwich. Very savory and the cheese used was quite sharp- tasty dish. My lamb sandwich included thinly sliced lamb piled on and had a good charred favor. It was definitely different and I appreciated the smokiness although I don't think I would ever get it again. What was disappointing was that it came with chips instead of french fries! Luckily my girlfriend was nice enough to share hers with me (they came with croque monsieur). My friends at the table got a mushroom crepe, a quiche, and french toast. All seemed very pleased with the meal. Afterwards we split a banana nutella crepe which was divine! Stuffed with bananas and oozing with chocolate, we ended breakfast on a definite high note. Overall I would recommend this place for its great service and pretty solid food!
(4)
Nigel P.
My partner and I have a tradition: we come here for lunch on the last day of our annual visit to Chicago. Consequently, I have bittersweet memories of Bistrot Zinc as we always hate to leave. For our next visit I am determined to have dinner here on the day of our arrival. It only seems fitting to do that which one loves as soon as possible, and we love Bistrot Zinc. Come for the martinis (always perfect) and stay for the food (always fabulous)!
(5)
Rebecca R.
I like this place but I'm not blown away either. It's a little overpriced but it's still has a nice ambiance. I went the other night with a friend and we ordered the scallops as an appetizer. The appetizer cost $13 and we got TWO scallops. So basically each scallop was $7.50. I figured we'd get more than two for that price but we didn't... I ordered the pork milanese which was very good. It came with a small tomato heirloom salad but overall it was one big piece of pounded meat. Good food, a little overpriced, romantic ambiance.
(3)
lisa N.
The Denny's of French restaurants. Mild and inoffensive flavors, my anchovy salad was a sea of whitish romaine ribs with 3 small anchovies and two dead cold premade toast pieces encrusted with congealed cheese, also cold. The French woman next to is finished neither her pate or crenels brule and declined to take it home. Good for people who are afraid of non us food.
I love the classic French bistro flare of this place. The atmosphere is cozy but still busy and bustling. The wine list is quite approachable as well. You have to ask for butter with the bread but the bread is yummy. Our server was Ian and he was just excellent as well. One criticism is that the menu does not say what the dishes come with. They are actually huge portions. I did not realize mine would come with a large portion of mashed potatoes as well as the main so that could be described a little better. But overall the experience was great and I'll definitely be back. We started with some venison terrine and escargot. I feel that for escargot it really matters about the texture and if you get some sea flavor from the snail as anything in a bunch of garlic and butter will be awesome. So I usually am underwhelmed. These were actually really good. Not quite Maudes, but my second favorite I've had. They had a perfect crunchy crust on the top and the snail flavor actually came through. The venison was just okay. There were very large pieces of pistachio in there that made it a bit difficult to eat. I also am a huge fan of venison and I didn't get that much true flavor. The cherry stuff they served with it was awesome though. I got the skate wing, which was prepared phenomenally. Skate is so easy to mess up and many times when you order it, it comes mushy and lacks the delicacy that makes it so succulent. This was the perfect balance of tender meat with the light, crispy skin. It came with mashed potatoes that were dynamite as well. My husband got the special stew, which was a chicken and tomato stew that he said was awesome. I was so stuffed I couldn't try it. Yet I tied the profiterole, which was very tasty, despite me not being a dessert person. So nothing was bad foodwise but some things were stand outs. I look forward to trying some other things next time and being aware of portion sizes for my next visit.
(4)
Sujin Y.
Went for Valentine's day. Good thing we made reservations because it was very full. Escargot (7/10): I've had better escargot in other French restaurants. Cooked well but overloaded with garlic. Lyonnaise salad (7/10): Missing a acidic element. Need more citrus. Greens were too bitter. Puff pastry with chicken stew (9.5/10): Dish of the night! Too much puff pastry and mashed potatoes overwhelmed the stew. Almost perfect! Braised beef short ribs (6/10): Sauce was too salty and the short ribs weren't fall apart yet. Needed more cooking time. Chocolate mousse (7/10): A bit too over whipped. It affected the texture. Also the chocolate had a very bitter and sour aftertaste. Service (7/10): Our waiter was slow to come back to our table. Just an inconvenience when we wanted to order and such.
(4)
Margo F.
Lovely dinner! Fab service. Poulet grand mere is worth the trip--chicken in wine sauce perfectly seasoned. Vol au vent equally flavorful. Wolf fish mmmm. Great bread--wonderful endive salad. Plain old burger excellent. Neat menu variety.
(5)
Christopher S.
This was my second time at this place. I love the service and the atmosphere. The food is great and it's perfect for a special occasion. I wound recommend this place.
(5)
Daniel N.
Recently some new friends of ours took us to this place. We had just changed into some scrubby clothes and were kind of afraid when they said it was a french bistro type place. Yes it was on the upscale side, white table clothes (covered in paper), servers dressed up, dark rooms, candle lit tables but they were a-ok with us in shorts (and I was in a hoodie). They still treated us with respect as if we showed up in tails and a top hat. The food was fantastic too. I had the ratatouille which was crepe style and tasted fantastic. My wife had the Croque Monsieur which was awesome (I'd hate to see the fat content on this sandwich though, with all the cheesy goodness and butter!). Our friends say they come about once every other month and they have yet to have anything bad there. Fantastic place.
Service was great! Waiters were competent and were attentive to our needs and made sure that our cup are always filled. Furthermore, our meal always came out right on time. I enjoyed the company of the manager who was quite easy going and friendly. It made me feel relaxed. It is a lovely place. It is really a nice place, but I am giving it 4 stars because it falls short in the food department. I am not saying food is bad, I just don't think the flavor and taste blew me away. I think I had taste something better.
(4)
Melissah L.
Pretty good! Nothing too special, but it was a relaxed place for Sunday brunch. I got a croque monsieur with fries, which was good but not great. The food on the menu is pretty simple-- so if you have a taste for the usually eggs benedict, burger, scrambled eggs etc, you will find something you like here!
(3)
Haliun Z.
First of all stroller friendly if your little one is with you! My crew (6 couples) had a great brunch there. They organized everything for us. We made a reservation a week ago. Food was delicious. Everyone was happy.
(5)
Mike D.
Came for lunch before heading to the airport. This was recommended by our concierge at the Peninsula. The onion soup and escargots were delicious. They were served piping hot which is a real plus for me. It seems too many restaurants are serving their food lukewarm which is real turnoff. My companion had a burger with steak frites. The burger was cooked to perfection and the frites were nice and crispy. With the onion soup I had a half a sandwich which is a special. The place would have received five stars except the bread on the Croque Monsieur was massive. It was similar to Texas Toast and was very soggy. You can find some values on the wine list if you stick to the French ones. I had the Cotes du Rhone by Guigal. Although the place reminds me of bistros in France, the servers are attentive, friendly, and helpful. I would recommend the Bistrot Zinc.
Hubby and I went here for dinner one of the nights we were in Chicago. When we got it around 5:45pm there weren't many other people, but it filled up fast and seems to be a popular place. Excellent soups - I had the french onion and hubby had the Moroccan carrot (soup of the day), both were great. We shared the Steak Au Povire which was tasty and perfectly cooked. Service was average, nothing to write home about. And ambiance was nothing special.
(4)
Andy H.
We ordered the french onion soup and a croque monsier sandwich. The soup tasted like a french onion soup should which was good. The croque monsier was pretty average, not too much flavor but a little bit on the salty side. The pommes frites that came with it were good but nothing special.
(3)
Matthew W.
I've been going to Bistro Zinc for lunch and dinner for years, and not once has this restaurant been anything but stellar! This is a truly charming, deeply authentic bistro that adds a touch of class to the block just north of Viagra Triangle. The crowd is local, the space incredibly well appointed (The artwork on the walls is, actually, spectacular. Keep your eyes peeled for the rather daring painting by the windows in the front!). Most importantly at Bistro Zinc, though, is the food. Classic, simple, delicious and authentic. I love dropping in for lunch for the soup/salad combo. And there's nothing like spending a warm summer evening at Bistro Zinc, with the massive front windows open, allowing you to enjoy your meal as you look out onto the street. One of the city's true treasures. Enjoy!
(5)
David E.
I can't say enough about the excellent service, the atmosphere ripped straight from Paris and the marvelous food. The cocktails were quite good. I enjoyed their French onion soup, and the vol-au-vent. My date had the salmon and lentils. Both were perfect. Take the time to stop in.
(5)
James F.
A great place for dinner - fine French food without being too formal. Nice wines and yummy desserts too! Since I wasn't feeling too adventurous on the day we dined here, i chose the Vol-au-vent: yelp.com/biz_photos/bist… which was filled with a great chicken stew. it was a like a french chicken pot pie - great chicken and carrots served in a flaky puff pastry over mashed potatoes. it hit the spot (though it's a lot of carbs!). then i had dessert - split a Gateau au Chocolat with the wife. yum! Good service, friendly decor, good food! I'd definitely like to come back to Bistrot Zinc next time I'm in Chicago, and in general, i'm not even a fan of French cuisine.
(5)
Yvonne Y.
Quaint bistro decor, perfect for brunch with kids as they take reservations. Love the traditional small-tiled floor. We had brunch on Bastille day and they even had a woman dressed in 19th century costume serving cake! They served ham & cheese or nutella crepes for kids that my daughter claimed was better than her grandpa's! I had the spinach benedicte which I found the eggs a bit undercooked (clear, liquidy egg white). 1 of my 3 cups of coffee tasted a bit stale and not particularly hot. Friendly, non-pushy staff. Would return and try their lunch items when I'm back in the neighborhood.
(3)
Yvonne B.
I am hovering between two and three stars for this review. There were some aspects of my dining experience at Bistrot Zinc that were absolutely phenomenal (our server was really top notch) and other things that we frowned at (the mussels). A lot of the evening was just okay. Duck Confit - It was a really tasty combination of duck, greens, bacon, and raisins. Potato Soup with Haricots Verts - A nice blend of potatoes with an earthy garlic flavor. Chev Salad - Hit the spot: crumbled goat cheese with pickled (?) pears. Mussels - Low quality and over cooked. Fries - I could make better at home. These were plain as plain can be. Chocolate Mousse - M didn't comment about it, didn't finish it, but chose to take most of it home to sit in the fridge untouched. Almond Cake - surprisingly well balanced. I don't usually like cake that much but thought that this one had good almond flavor, nice texture, and wasn't too sweet. With drinks, our bill came to $120. The ambiance is like other bistros: benches along the walls, mirrors, and large artwork. I'd say this is a really good spot for folks who live close by who are looking for a solid (somewhat casual) dinner OR people who happen to be in the Gold Coast and are craving French food. Personally, I wouldn't seek it out for a special occasion or anything.
(2)
Steve A.
Food is very average. Steak frites is banal and chewy. Salmon crepe has 3 slivers of smoked salmon (and only $14!)--thanks so much! Everything is just very very lazy. And SORRY, no specials available for lunch! Why? Well, as the very kind bartender told me a couple of years ago, before this place became garbage, "basically just laziness." Yes, the lunch crew has all the ingredients and knowledge to prepare specials for lunch, but no you can't have any. The old bartender used to go against policy and get me specials for lunch anyway by basically telling the cooks to simply do their job, and yes, back then, the food was good. Now, it's terribly average. Moreover, it's impossible to order take out from this place! I called on Thursday, a bit after 5 pm, and I was told "We don't do takeout after 5pm." Odd, but okay. Perhaps fanciful elves wander into the kitchen just before dinner and steal all the to-go cartons. Yes, that must be it. Then I called on Sunday, at 4:38, and asked for take out. What was I told? "Sorry, we don't do take-out orders after fiv... 4:30." Ya, eff you too. Idiots. Done with this place. May your business follow where your food and staff have gone, down the toilet, forever and ever. P.S. Thanks for doing your little part in making the Gold Coast horrible.
(1)
Jenny H.
First off, BZ was delightfully quaint from the bar to the vintage tiled floors. Great place to take in a leisurely weekend. The fellow seated next to us was quite dapper, taking in a cup of coffee and a newspaper. But oh my cheesy-bistro stars... What possessed me to order a french onion soup with a croque monsieur? I love me some gruyere as much as the next person, but I should've known that I was setting myself up for a crazy cheesed-out lunch endeavor. Despite this regrettable ordering mishap, the french onion surpassed any other french onions I've ever had. My lunch buddy's lamb sandwich was pretty decent, but I'm not a big fan of lamb. Yes to the french onion, but next time if I'm ordering the soup again I'll probably go for something less cheese-inspired.
(3)
Katie V.
Bumping them up a star....I think they deserve it. The food is consistently good and it's a great lunch spot whether you're alone or with friends. The soup + 1/2 sandwich deal is excellent. The french onion soup is so cheesy and delicious -- for a dollar upcharge, you can get it instead of the soup du jour with the sandwich combo. Brunch is great there, too -- lots of traditional options and also some lighter fare if you're trying to not spend the rest of your day in a food coma. Lovely space, attentive service -- a definite gem in the neighborhood.
(4)
Michael M.
Worst bistro in Chicago Bad service food. Attitude. And expensive for quality
(1)
Sfg S.
We went on a crowded Friday night and were greeted by a cheery hostess who was able to sit us down right away. The waiter came right over with menus, took a drink order and returned in very reasonable time. Both dinners came out hot and were cooked to order. Can't wait to return to Chicago where we will put Bistrot Zinc on our must visit again.
(4)
Paloma M.
Beautiful place, nicely decorated, staff was very attentive and the food was amazing! I had a goat cheese salad with nuts and an almond butter cake for dessert. Just perfect!
(4)
Iris W.
I absolutely love this place! I've been here twice and have ordered the same thing both times. Lamb Sandwich. Get it. It's served with these super flavorful, grilled red onions in the sandwich and with crispy waffle chips on the side. YUM. The atmosphere is great, people there are nice, service is great and efficient. You need to go, especially if you love lamb! I went with a friend and she loved their truffle chicken salad sandwich and french onion soup. Everything seems great on the menu-- I'm going to have to try something new next time.
(5)
Teresa M.
What a great find this was! Loved walking around the neighborhood in the Gold Coast area and since we were staying at the Hotel Indigo, this place was just around the corner. Our waiter was fantastic, and although he said he had only been working there 3 months, he knew his way around the menu, the wine list, etc like a pro. I had the bouillabase, which was excellent and finished with the creme brulee. Perfect! Like a little bit of Paris in Chicago.
(5)
Colleen C.
I've held out on writing this review...as it made me sad to think about. Yes, sad. Why? Because when I dined here on a lovely Friday, the sun was shining, the birds were chirpin'...and it was....WARM. So, after this day all went to hell, the weather froze over...it rained for a week, it snowed. It hailed. It all went straight to shit, and I couldn't even bare to recollect the BZ experience without dropping tears into my cold coffee. Depressing! However, today...as the temps strive for...60! I am able. Spring is upon us, for good. YAY! I was invited to dine with the illustrious Dennis S for a leisurely Friday lunch...Paige W and Tara M also joined me. Having a rather mild aversion to the Viagra Triangle, this chic stop wasn't even on my radar, but now...it's my benchmark for French cuisine in Chicago, that won't drive you straight to the poorhouse. Dennis is a champion of French dining, and so I must say some of the experience is attributed to his knowledge, stories of Paris, and the like. However, the service was impeccable (thank you, Nick), and the vibe was comfort, all around. I speak only for my own dishes...as I was so enamored with them, I barely had a chance to peek at the others'. My brie and apple sandwich on brioche was absolutely drool-worthy, as was the french onion soup and hand cut chips. The pate and cheese plate to start was a decadent tease, as were the biscuits drowning happily in cheese...mmmmm, so delightful. Dessert? Why a chocolate crepe of course...do you expect anything else? Despite my best efforts to resist the wine...I could not, and managed to sip my way into a very pleasant, French-fueled buzz...making the rest of Friday afternoon very unproductive. :) For more adequate and well-put reviews, please see also: Dennis S and Tara M. They apparently pay way better attention under the influence than I do. ;)
(5)
Emily B.
My advice on this one is to go full-out French. I was there for lunch and thought just a salad would do. So I got it, but then I started to marvel at all the traditional French delicacies that were coming out to other tables including the French onion soup, the quiche, the steak & frites, etc. Don't skimp on this one. Just get what you came to the "French place" for and you'll have no regrets. Plus the atmosphere is nothing short of highly adorable.
(4)
Dennis S.
The perfect place for a long French lunch on a pleasant Friday afternoon. Tara M's review on 3/6/09 does a great job of describing our long Friday lunch at Bistrot Zinc. Bistrot Zinc is one of the few French bistros on the north side that stays open all afternoon, so we didn't need to worry about any "our kitchen is closing now" nonsense. We started late and stayed late. Tara didn't cover the specifics of our wines. We started with kirs - white wine (preferably a white Burgundy) and crème de cassis. Then we went through a few bottles of a nice Pouilly Fume. After coffees and dessert, we ended with Muscat Beaumes de Venise. Beaumes de Venise is a great finishing drink, an apple/honey tasting fortified wine. My main course was again their trout, which was cooked perfect and as tasty as can be. Sharing desserts made for a taste treat, although we each managed to finish our own when our plates got back to us. The afternoon was relaxing, with continual good service even though we lingered for over three hours. It was a perfect "who cares what else is happening in the world" French lunch on a warm Friday afternoon. Bistrot Zinc did a great job of providing everything we needed to make this happen.
(4)
Natalie G.
Thank goodness! I have amazing friends who are hilarious and entertaining, because if my experience was based on the food itself, it was simply ok. I found this place on yelp, and should have followed Annie Y's review, because it was really very mediocre. I love brunch, but I hate brunch lines... So, when I came across this place that took reservations, this was a go for me and my gals! 10:30 am: The magical hour of Sunday brunch. Anything past that window of time, all you get is lines and crowds and lines. We got here, and it was us and the senior citizens = perfection. We were seated at a lovely table near the window, and brunch commenced. The menu was french with classic brunch dishes of eggs benedict, crepes, and run of the mill kinda stuff. The menu was not entirely expansive, but decent sandwiches and salads too. - Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict: The Eggs benedict dishes was boxed and featured, so 3 out of 4 of us ended up with the smoked salmon eggs benedict. It was good, but nothing that super impressed me. The smoked salmon was cut a little too thick so a bit on the heavy side, and we had the hollandaise on the side, and that was just a bit just unimpressive. - French Onion: My friend got this, and she is a french onion junkie. She enjoyed it, but it was not something that she was uberly impressed with - Mimosas: They were good.. but for $9 a glass, didn't encourage us to keep drinking. All in all. This spot was mediocre. It did not wow me, but it did not disgust me. I probably wouldn't come back, because there are so many other amazing places to try. But for what is it, it's simply a-ok.
(3)
Adam A.
Each time we go here seems better than the last. Great food, wait staff make it feel elegant but not stuffy, perfect combination. A must!
(5)
Shaun F.
Consistently great French Bistro! The food is the epitome of traditional french cooking. Try the stew du jour in a puff pastry- it changes every now and then and is always yummy! I have been coming here for a few years now and am always pleased by the food and service. The regular bar tenders are fantastic and always fun to chat with! My wife loves to order a French 75 or a French Martini- she always loves them. The menu may be small, but I can't tell you how much I prefer a small menu done well over a large menu that takes an hour to look through and can be hit-or-miss. Bistro Zinc is NOT expensive especially for the quality and location. People, everything is made in house by a chef for God's sake!
(5)
L S.
Very enjoyable! Went there with sleepy ten year old after theater. We all loved it - service was good - food was good - mussels were the best I've had in Chicago. Did not get to linger or stay for dessert but will go back again to enjoy without the sleepy one!
(4)
Taryn T.
I stopped here for lunch, and I would basically consider this place a pleasantly high-quality Panera or Corner Bakery. I ordered a "half and half" combo with French onion soup (highly recommend - it was delicious here) and a toasted turkey sandwich. They also served delicious, straight-out-of-the-oven warm bread with butter - a huge personal weakness. It wasn't crowded, the service was extremely friendly and attentive, and everything was very affordable considering the location - the bill was around $25 for two people. I'd definitely come back here for another lunch or to try the dinner menu.
(4)
Heather D.
I used to work in this neighborhood and this place quickly became one of my favorite after work destinations. I still go there a lot and consider it one of my standbys. This is by far the best bistro I've come across in Chicago. The food is standard bistro fare that is well executed and the service is always friendly and professional. I always feel welcome here and even feel comfortable dining alone or grabbing a drink at the bar. There is a real neighborhood feel to the place and it's a great option if you want to escape all the douche bags who hang out on Division, but also don't want to go to the Viagra Triangle haunts like Gibsons, and Hugo Frogs. The menu is pretty typical of a French bistro and it's a good option for both a lunch and dinner. It seems that I always have to order the escargot. They are the best I've ever had and I could easily eat a whole serving myself. I also really enjoy their steak frites and croque monsieur as well as their selection of soups. I have never been disappointed by a meal here. I also always order dessert and that is something I rarely do at other restaurants.
Pretty nice place to get a great meal! An ex-girlfriend thought it would be a great idea to check this place out. I was skeptical at first (I don't know why). I was really impressed with it. Really nice decor and great mood music! I had the duck breast and she had the grilled salmon. The duck breast was really juicy and came with rice. The wine wasn't very expensive and both dishes were great (yeah, I had to finish hers because she got too full). The girl that served us was pretty fast and was always available. I would definately recommend this place to anyone. Great for first dates and great for taking your already established significant other.
(5)
Emann B.
I'd really like to understand what the heck happened here. Let me preface this review update by saying that I am an educated, cultured, and successful professional who has worked many years in the service industry while in university and grad school. So I am always a great customer, smiling and easy, and very low maintenance. I'm also a very good tipper. And before you start scoffing, let me just say that prior to cabbing it to Bistrot Zinc, my friends and I kicked off our Friday-before-Memorial Day at a River North bar that featured drink and appetizer specials. The bill came to $46 and I left a $40 tip to ensure the very attentive and friendly bartender did not lose out because of the special prices. My two friends and I arrive at Bistrot Zinc around 7ish pm and were promptly seated. Our server shows up, tall with a shaved head, and at first is friendly and engaging. I immediately say, "We would like a bottle of champagne." Translation: "We are celebrating. We are spending money. You will get a good tip." The server gives us a nice run down of their selections and offers to bring us a sample of one of them, which we find perfectly fine. So we order a bottle. A few minutes later the server shows up, opens the bottle, and pours each of us our first glass. We place an order for escargot to get started. Then.......................nothing. No follow up. No offer to make a second pour. No appetizer. We had to flag a bus boy to inquire about our escargot. The server comes over and makes some lame excuse like we were so engaged in banter about the champagne that he forgot to put the order in. He then looks like he's about to walk away and we tell him we would like to order entrees. He takes our orders and I say audibly "What's left in the bottle?" Translation: "You didn't bother to check on us, and we have emptied the bottle by pouring it ourselves, but shockers, we are still interested in ordering another one." Nothing....no acknowledgement, no follow up, the server just walks away. One of my friends is then so fed up he walks to the front and asks for the manager. The manager comes over, we voice our concerns, and then ask for another server to finish out the evening. He complied nicely and the replacement server (and his trainee) were a dream, thankfully salvaging what would have otherwise been a disappointing evening. We also had our three desserts gratis. So my question to the original server is what the heck did we do to put you off? I'd really like to know. And by the way, I'm an Asian guy with a shaved head. I was wearing a navy and white checked shirt. The friend to my right was a lovely Asian woman wearing glasses, and my other friend was seated facing her. He's Caucasian, salt and pepper hair, and glasses. I want you to know exactly who we are. And I hope to goodness that the lovely replacement server and trainee collected our tip. Because you don't serve a penny of it. I ask again, what did we do to put you off? The two stars are only because the situation was somewhat rectified with the exceptional replacement server. I have loved Bistrot Zinc for many years, but frankly Chicago has many options now, and I won't be back.
(2)
Carolyn L.
I have loved Bistrot Zinc for about 4 years now, since I first discovered it with my mother back in 2006. I've spent a year in Paris so I'm pretty picky when it comes to French establishments, but this place is just so cute and authentic, I can't resist gushing over it. On Saturday, I went for a late lunch with my friend. She ordered a banana and nutella crepe which looked delicious. I wanted something more hearty so I ordered the Moroccan couscous dish and was very happy with my selection. It came out hot, with just the right portion size. There were great spices and it complemented my Cotes du Rhone wine selection nicely. I also enjoyed a glass of port for dessert. I'd definitely go back and I would encourage other people I know to go back, too!
(5)
Beth G.
Great food, great atmosphere! The waiter was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable. I would have dinner here every night if I could afford it!
(5)
Ingrid G.
I am in love with this place. Everything I've tried here has been a home run. The eggs benedict with smoked salmon is ORGASMIC (yep, in all caps) as is the lamb sandwich. I loved the bacon and leek quiche. Their crepes are great as well, and I'm snooty about crepes. Prices are reasonable for high-quality food. I'll be back. /Schwarzenegger
(5)
V C.
People have said it before and I agree - charming. relaxing ambience. Somewhat out of place in Rush but I'm glad it's there. The service here is always top notch, the food I've had is invariably rich in taste, and I've never had to wait long even on weekends. The peppercorn steak is an old faithful and is probably the best thing I've had. The stuffed chicken that's on this month's specials is a light and flavorful dish, served in a broth that made me keep reaching for the bread to soak it all up. The hanger steak, which is a filet sliced thin, is also quite good. Despite the cozy neighborhood bistro feel, the prices are a little high (this is Rush after all). Expect to pay 50 per person for dinner.
(4)
Kate S.
J'aime bien ce restaurant! I have been here a few times for brunch and love everything about it. The atmosphere, the decor, the music, the coffee, the fabulous french toast with fresh berries and cream, and stellar mimosas. I've never had to wait for a table, but the window seats are always taken... and in the summer they open up those windows which is lovely. You can't go wrong here! Everything is magnifique!
(5)
Dr. J.
Our favorite french bistrot in Chicago for brunch! Lovely atmosphere, great service, marvelous food!
(5)
Caroline M.
Very nice ambiance for romantic dinners and small group reunions, staff was friendly and helpful, and food tasted really good.
(4)
Miss M.
I went to Bistro Zinc with my boyfriend on a Friday night. It was my first time trying French cuisine. Bistro Zinc is like a cutsie cafe and it is very laid back. Most patrons are older Gold Coast couples and groups and tourists. I think my boyfriend and I were the only people there under the ages of 45 :) but, their food was really good and I would totally go back. Their French onion soup was awesome and probably the best I ever had (REAL French onion soup, not the fake stuff!). For dinner I had a baked chicken entree with potatoes and mushrooms and it was really tasty. The dessert was the best party. It was an almond cake with fresh creme and fresh berries. It was the best dessert I had ever had. My boyfriend had the banana nutella crepe which was also heavenly. My only major complaint was that my butt hurt from the chair I was sitting in. I wish it had more padding. Otherwise the dining experience was great and the food was very tasty.
(4)
Amy H.
Such a gem!! I just came back from lunch at Bistro Zinc and I can't wait to go back. The atmosphere is so nice...fancy but not stuffy or snobby. The food was amazing! I could make a meal out of the escargot. I had an amazing half sandwich with some french onion soup. Deeeeelish! The dessert menu was confusing because I didn't know what to pick. I decided on the nutella and banana crepe, which was devine. The staff was super friendly and attentive without being pushy. They really seemed to enjoy working there and serving the food. I can't wait to go back to Bistro Zinc and I plan on taking everyone that I know there.
(5)
Dardo S.
Excellent foie gras... Real Onion soup
(4)
Heidi H.
Once again, you have led me in the right direction when looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a great meal! My college roommate, Kelly, decided that she was going to visit me during spring break (YAY!!!!) and I needed to find the perfect place for a nice dinner before we went to the theater to see Mary Poppins. I was at a lost because I rarely eat downtown, so came to Yelp for help! Bistrot Zinc was perfect for what I wanted... beautiful ambiance, great food, and something completely different than what she could get in Bloomington, MN. We got it all here and more. I started with the best French onion soup that I have ever had in my entire life and I would go back just for that. For my entree I enjoyed a stew with puff pastry that was rich, hearty, and wonderful. Bistrot Zinc was just the right place to catch up with my girlfriend over incredible French food and a bottle of Savignon Blanc. I just hope that I can have the chance to come back again soon, especially to enjoy the windows open!
(5)
Mag N.
i've only tried items off the lunch menu. what i've had i certainly enjoyed. however, the bread can be a little rough...and the time has always been off -- not very consistent, sometimes slow service, sometimes not so much.
(3)
Tara M.
I have walked by Bistrot Zinc hundreds of times (and stared it straight in the face every time I walk out of Anthropogie after spending a small fortune) but didn't really know anything about it. Today I was lucky enough to have a fabulous late, long and wine-tastic Parisian-style lunch here with Dennis S., Colleen C. and Paige W. We started with a traditional charcuterie plate (delicious) and amazing goat cheese souffle with a sun-dried tomato tapenade. I am not a lover of goat cheese (unless it comes from the milk of the goats I stole from Krsna V.), but this was one of the best things I've tasted in a long time. It should be noted that the souffle is only on the dinner menu but lucky for us Dennis knew to order it. For my entree, I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, which was a leg and breast of chicken on the bone in a broth with mushrooms, potatoes, onions and tons of garlic. The bones did make it a bit difficult to eat but the chicken was well seasoned and tender and the accompanying vegetables were great! By the time dessert came around, 2 (maybe 3) bottles of wine had been consumed and we decided to pass our desserts around so that we could try them all. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (cherry & vanilla custard in a pastry with cream and caramel and dried cherries). I was also able to sample the Profiteroles (amazing), fresh berries with mascarpone (fresh and delicious) and the chocolate crepe (good but too much chocolate for this girl). BZ is a very bright and open space and the bathrooms were perhaps the cleanest public restrooms I've ever seen. Our waiter, whom I chose to call Guillaume (totally not his name--I believe it was Nicholas) made good recommendations, was properly attentive and put up with our giving him a hard time and being generally full of wine on a Friday afternoon. He also comped dessert drinks for us ladies. A wonderful experience with three great Yelpers and delicious food in a cute and bright atmosphere. I can't think of a better way to spend a warm, sunny Friday afternoon! Oh, and an honorary sixth star for the fact that I actually had two different glasses of wine in front of me at one point. I may just move to France.
(5)
Chris B.
Visted this charming little restaurant today, with and old friend. She had the Eggs Benedict w/ salmon! I tried a burger w/ pomme frites. My friend thought her eggs were a little cooler than she wanted and our outstanding server, Jeff, whisked it away and returned with a new order, before we could say, "Excellent service!" The meal was delicious! The bill was generous! The decor and ambiance were appopriately Francophilic. Visit Bistrot Zinc, mon ami!
(5)
Janet X.
This was a really cute restaurant. Came here with one of my friends who is leaving me to go to Paris next year, and I was very pleasantly surprised. There was none of the snobbishness of other French restaurants, the space was airy, bright and clean, with just the right touch of whimsy, and the food was delicious. I had the crepes with mushroom and chicken, which was very good, but when my friend's eggs benedict arrived I wished I got that instead!
(4)
Jeff N.
We are big fans of Kiki's in River North, but found this great french bistro to offer many of the same qualities that make dining so great. Great service, very tasty food. We love the Mussels here!. And the service was outstanding. Highly recommend this State Street gem.
(4)
Johnny R.
We all have three lists of restaurants in our heads.... 1) Perfect 2) I'd eat there again, but there are five other places I'd rather go 3) No good Bistrot Zinc is in the #1 category for me. We went there for Valentines, and have been there before. It was perfect. The ambience is perfect, and the food, and service... perfect. I've had the coq au vin which was very good, but have also had the specials. This past visit I had a steak special that was very good. Their sauces tend to be very well executed, and for a sauce maker like me, their food inspires rather than disappoints. It's also a classy restaurant. When I've eaten there, I've not had boorish guys talking on their phones annoying everyone by talking about some lame movie they just saw or that they sold ten cars that day. Instead you have locals and tourists, all of whom comport themselves well, and are nicely dressed. I'd like to go again and try other things on their menu when time allows. If I was going to search for a negative, and believe I have to really think about it, I'd say they play it safe with their entrees. That's really not much of a negative but that's all I can think of.
(5)
Maya H.
When did the trend of casual french dining start popping up everywhere? not that I'm complaining of course. Escargot were delish and had the compulsory blend of herbs, butter and garlic coating each little body. The creatures hemselves were gigantic...do you think we started pumping farmed escargot full of growth hormones as well? At this size I woudln't doubt it. Lamb sandwich had thick slices of real lamb with a slathered aoili to die for. Nice bite and the sweet slices of toasted white bread didnt fight for attention from the lamb. Pomme frites were a nice side and completely edible.
(3)
Jacqueline S.
I love any French place to be honest, because I just love the culture (art, and films) so I love to spend as many afternoons as I can dreaming of the south of France. (If you've been you will understand why!) Anyways, the food is pretty decent, it's not my favorite though. I recommend their quiche specials of the day though if you like that or the ratatouille crepes. Their desserts are really good, and the service I experienced here was (sorry!) better than what I experienced at Bistrot Margot. Although, I went here during the down time between lunch and dinner and I was pretty much the only person in the place. So, probably is a good judge of actual service that you would receive on say a Friday night. Anyways, love the music they play, and much about this place. Have not been disappointed yet.
(4)
marc-paul l.
So disappointing! I've walked past this place dozens of times and it looks so charming from the outside. Last Sunday afternoon my gf and I were looking for somewhere different to eat so I suggested BZ. All I wanted was a croque monsieur sandwich, nothing fancy. My gf ordered soup and sandwich combo, lamb and onion soup. The waiter said that was an "awesome" choice. He said nothing about my CM. When it arrived I could see why. The whole thing was soggy as if left under a lid for too long. It was like holding a wet sponge. The pommes frites were equally limp. Steak'n'Shake has better fries, whoops, I mean frites. On the plus side my gf's lamb sandwich was delicious and she enjoyed it a great deal. As for the onion soup, I thought it was barely edible since it was so salty and had too strong a flavor of beef broth. I'm said to say I won't be returning. The search continues for a good French bistro.
(2)
Jasper N.
Great location, great prices, and pretty good food and service. If you are looking for a casual parisian lunch or dinner, this is your spot. There is a mix of people, including Gold Coasters, shoppers, families, etc. This is definitely on my short list of places to eat when I'm in the area, and worth checking out.
(4)
Ke M.
Came here for restaurant week so I feel it's hard to gauge what it would be like on a normal night. We were seated right away with our reservation and the server was attentive and made great wine recommendations. The food was flavorful and good. The portions were just right so that I felt full without over indulging or needing to box the leftovers. Not a ton of options but I think they know what they do best and stick to that. It was a bit loud but I'm sure it's because it was a Friday night during restaurant week. Worth trying out, but not my all time favorite french restaurant.
(3)
Marie B.
August 19 -- I've amended my review. In July, I rated this restaurant 4 stars because the service and food were fab. Now, I'd like to give them a negative 5! Not just because the food was horrible and the service even more so, but also because from my past experience, I KNOW they can do better! We had brunch here and were sorely disappointed. The omelette was the worst I have ever seen! Dry, no fillings, tasteless. ICK! Everything was a big disappointment. Another yelp-er says people in the food and bev industry hate "brunch", obviously the staff at Bistrot Zinc fall in this category. But, you know what...if you hate brunch...don't open! Save everyone from the expensive disappointment we had today!! Two words: Tres Bon! This place is absolutely wonderful. Cozy, but not small or claustrophic, charmingly decorated and the service is the best I've had since moving to Chicago. Case in point, I made reservations for six (6) this past Friday. We arrived (30 minutes late) and our reservation had been given to someone else -- that, plus they thought we were a part of two. Thus, we had to wait a bit (no more than 15 minutes) for them to prepare a table. Not an issue in my world, but apparently it was in theirs! They provided not one, but THREE, complimentary appeitzers by way of apology!? As for the wait staff, they were friendly and attentive, but did not hover. Oh, and the food. Divine. The wine...great choices and not terribly expensive. In short. A very good restaurant.
(1)
Brad B.
I dined at bistro zinc recently, in an effort to expand my universe of french food (which is already considerable). Two words: NO DUCK. What sort of french place doesn't have SOME sort of duck on the menu? Merde alors! So, I went with the old reliable. Steak frites. It was quite enjoyable. The atmosphere is cool, cozy and totally what the doctor ordered. The wine list was not daunting but offered a few interesting options including a lovely Vouvray (a bit sweet but, still good). I can't believe I didn't have the nutella bananna crepe but, I went for the chocolate cake instead and wasn't disappointed, one bit. I'm Brad B and I approve Bistro Zinc. hehehe Update: Hit Bistro Zinc for a brunch thing this past weekend and it was utterly brilliant. Strong coffee (reminded me of Paris). Omlette served with salad, as it was meant to be. Lovely.
(4)
Linnea L.
We stopped in for a drink Saturday night and thought the staff was so nice we came back for brunch on Sunday. it was delicious (roasted veggie quiche especially). Good coffee, too. Staff is very friendly, place has a nice vibe. Will definitely come back.
(4)
Eric M.
I really can't think of anything to knock Bistro Zinc for. For what they're aiming to be - a French bistro restaurant - they're pretty much spot on. I've been going here for about eight years now and they've be exceptionally consistent. I consider this to be one of my "comfort food" spots, where I can go when I just want good food with good service in a nice environment. It's moderately priced - you can spend a lot if you want to, but you don't have to. It's casual - some people wear suits, but I'm just as comfortable there in jeans. It's good for groups, couples or for solo dining. The steak frites are very good - the fries are perfect, the herb butter is great on the steak, which is always perfectly cooked. I also order the poulet grand mere frequently, which is awesome - crispy skinned chicken, with potatoes and pearl onions and bits of bacon. Their specials list at dinner has nice seasonal fare, too. I think that changes monthly. The wines by the glass pair well with the food - they're maybe a tad pricey, but not too bad. Finally, the desserts are great, too. I love the creme brulee "BZ" and the crepe a la banane et nutella best, but really all of their desserts are wonderful. This isn't Everest or Cite, but it doesn't aim to be. I give them five stars for hitting the center of the target they've aimed for.
(5)
Lara M.
I really wanted to love this place, but my first experience there was only ok. I still really want to love this place so I'll probably try again. Was there for brunch and ordered... 1. ham and gruyere omlette - tasty but nothing special. 2. Banana and nutella crepe - seriously not sure how this could be bad. but by this point I had filled up on too much medicore omlette to really be able to enjoy. perhaps next time ill come back just for the crepe.
We had Sunday lunch here. At 11:30 it was full but not crowded. The menu was varied and everything looked yummy. The service was very good. The tables are kind of close together, but that was minor. I had the salmon quiche which was delicious, very light and fluffy. My partner had the turkey sandwich which was also very good, but with some waffle potato chips that were a little overcooked. The soup of the day was curried cauliflower. We didn't have it, but it sounded great. We are only here for three days, but will go back if we can.
(4)
Noah L.
Love the decor and ambiance. So wish the food was better.
(2)
Eric B.
Last Friday Kelly and I made our second trip to Bistrot Zinc, on what would seem to be an annual event. Our first experience here was the summer of 2007, and it was a delightful time, with a warm, playful decor, filling charcuterie, succulent venison medallions, and a superb gigondas from the reserve list. . . . Nostalgia, however, can be a cruel, cruel mistress. Which isn't to say the second time around was a total let down. The decor, ambience, and service remain superb. Bistrot Zinc has a classic layout, with wicker chair enveloped tables in the front, a gorgeous zinc bar in the center, and a cozy yet uncrowded back room with standard tables and banquettes, touched off with a multi-colored tiled floor, bright but not glaring yellow walls, and vintage prints, all of which take you out of the hustle and bustle of the Viagra Triangle waiting outside. We were not, however, rewarded in our food choices. The French onion soup was disappointingly bland, and the escargot did not taste fresh, at all -- it reminded me of frozen escargot I purchased at Paulina Meat Market. Dinner was similarly disappointing. I had the chicken grandmother style, while Kelly had the grilled poussin -- the baby chicken. My chicken was tough, and while the dish had a wonderful smoky flavor from the bacon, I was surprised at how brothy it was -- the dish advertised rosemary garlic jus, but I expected a better balance with the Parisian potatoes, resulting in a ragout. Instead I got a large soup. Kelly's dish was similarly disappointing, but mostly from lack of flavor. In retrospect, I'm not sure exactly why I went with chicken -- I was probably recalling fond memories of the cornish hen at Kiki's Bistro, which is tender juicy and flavorful. Next time, I will go more conventional bistro and get the lamb pork and duck cassoulet. After all, when in doubt at a French restaurant, go with game. The dinner was not a total loss however, because our dessert -- the apple tart -- was superb. Additionally, they have a fine, if albeit short, wine list with a very affordable negociant Chateauneuf du Pape. So why do I give it three stars? In large part because of my first trip, where the specials were more adventurous (i.e. venison), and because they had a few special reserve bottles, which were not that expensive as far as reserve bottles go. I hope this is a reflection of the tough market restaurants are currently going through, and that when we return for the cassoulet, we are rewarded with our persistence. Regardless, if you are in the neighborhood and want a moment of European respite, you can do much worse than stopping in for at least an apertif and appetizer at the bar.
(3)
Mac P.
Two stars for this restaurant, not because it was bad ... the food was OK but quite unmemorable. That's why I am typing this review ASAP because otherwise I may forget I ever ate here. The one thing I won't forget though is the bill, not outrageous but clearly not as cheap as the food (steak au poivre = quite boring, chevre salad = just OK). If you are looking for a French restaurant in Chicago, please don't go here, plenty of other places in the same price range that have much better food.
(2)
Arielle S.
First off let me say that I went here for the escargot which was totally worth it! And the atmosphere and decor was also very Parisian Bistrot/ Brasserie and the wine the waitress selected was also very good. However, I was disappointed in the Coq Au Vin I ate- I wish I sent it back. And there didn't seem to be a lot of other main dishes that I was interested in or reasonably priced for what they were. I will be back because of the location, service and escargot but I hope to find a main dish that I enjoy.
(3)
Sonja S.
As good as it gets being a relative measurement - I am giving Zinc Bistrot a full 5 stars based on factors relative to the myriad of other "French Bistrot - like" restaurants that I have dined at over the last 9 months. Fathers day was particularly poignant for me , for a number of reasons that I shall not dwell upon in this review. So I wanted to honor my Pop, who is far away from here, by doing it up right with Auntie Fab - a true Francophile and a recent returnee from an extended trip to Paris. I loved the restaurant's ambiance - while others have dismissed it as "cheesy" , I have been to Paris a number of times and found the restaurant both authentic and charming. Is there anything better when one is dressed for a fancy brunch and ones hair is behaving, to be seated by an open window between two tables of handsome men? To be quickly attended to with water and menus, to be promptly given delicious coffee and cold rose wine (which we asked for errr - let me not mislead you with a false magnanimous gesture) The menu was very french and I dithered mightily before deciding on the pan fried trout with scrambled eggs and potatoes. The trout was cooked so beautifully it almost made me weep with gratitude, the eggs fluffy and golden yellow ( real eggs! REAL EGGS! That even tasted like ....EGGS) Auntie Fab had the Chicken Crepes - also delish. Never rushed we ambled through our Brunch chatting and toasted Fathers far and near, alternating between people watching and chatting - the restaurant was PACKED. yet our service remained attentive and professional. We wound up our meals with desert, I had a chocolate cake that I had to take away from myself before inhaling the plate accidentally. SO GOOD!!!! So what could have been a sad and depressing day was transformed by a charming atmosphere, professional service and a perfect brunch. If that doesn't deserve 5 stars I don't know what does.
(5)
John M.
Excellent menu selections, great attentive servers. Nice dining experience, just a little too noisy.
(4)
Unity O.
Just tried this place after a friend expressed a desire to try it out & have to say I am glad she did. Some friends & I decided to give this place a try for brunch on Sunday & I have to say it was great. We were seated right away, by a very friendly hostess. I was impressed with the warm atmosphere--since it was a beautiful day they had their front windows open & lots of light was streaming in. Being a brunch outing my 1st order of concern was getting COFFEE & I not disappointed--it was quite good (my only complaint is that the cups are tiny). Their menu while not huge--did have lots of variety. I ordered the chicken & mushroom crepes on the recomendation of the waitress & was pleased with the portion size and the taste/flavors. my only regret is that I had no room for dessert--sigh! One more reason to just go back though.
(4)
Erica K.
I had a fantastic lunch here with my friend Laura. We went to an early movie and were starving and just dropped in at about 1 on a Sunday. Our server was attentive but not obnoxious. And I know this is going to sound funny, but this place exudes good manners. It's totally polite and charming. And the food was great. I had a cup of white bean, fennel soup with half of an apple and guyerre sandwich. The bread on the sandwich was toasted brioche and the cheese was melty and savory. The apples were green and crisp and provided perfect contrast and texture. The soup was well seasoned and subtle. I really enjoyed the whole experience and will be back again.
(4)
Andrea R.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc for brunch a few months ago, and it was great. Went again this past weekend for dinner, and it was even better. Highly recommend the chicken and mushroom crepe. At $10, it's filling and full of flavor (read: lots and lots of cream). Not exactly the healthiest of fare, but for a treat, it's totally worth it.
(5)
Leslie O.
Quiche was terrible. Love traditional tall Quiche and had to send this one back it was that bad. Ordered a salad instead that was decent. Offered to buy me dessert, but it was lunch and I did not except. Dissappointed:(
(2)
Veliero M.
On a warm autumn Saturday afternoon we stumbled upon Bistrot Zinc with its big windows open to let the sun and warm air in. The waiter was very nice, the service fast and the food good! We had the creme brulee, not in that order, we ate it last actually. Very nice, could not stop eating it! And the specials. The quiche, the zucchini soup that was so velvety and smooth and the crepe with mushroom and a sherry sauce where you could just taste the sherry in your mouth and it was so very delicious. We will be back!
(4)
Amy Z.
This place is legitimately amazing. It is not cheap--so if you care mainly about that, go elsewhere. But if you want a fantastic date or night out with close friends and don't mind paying a bit for it, you will have a great time. Their best thing here is hands down the creme brulee. I feel like I shouldn't be typing this on Yelp, because I'm always a little scared that when I go there, they will be out, but so far so good, and the pastry chef deserves credit where credit is due. The dessert portions are generous, so for all you calorie counters out there, you can share this with someone else. As for their food, I tend to like the French Onion Soup and any of their vegetarian salads. I've had the dinner crepes (galettes) here a few times and have never fallen in love, but a few of my dinner companions have enjoyed these. I recently went here with my boyfriend and his family and everybody enjoyed their meal. In short, if you like things on the lighter side then stick with the salads and save room for dessert, but if you are a heartier eater then you should feel safe choosing any of the mains.
(5)
Elizabeth R.
Went here last night with my husband for NYE dinner. We had a multitude of problems and a very poor dining experience and definitely will not be going back again. First, both things I ordered they didn't have. It was a bellini for a drink, which was fine, I can understand that. But then to be out of the filet! I was upset. It was a holiday dinner and I wanted something special which for me meant a filet. The waiter could have told me that when he explicitly pointed out the special entrees and before we stared at the menu for ten minutes! Also, we had reservations and yet got seated at the worst table in the whole restaurant. We also felt so rushed it was rediculous. When we are spending that much money for drinks and dinner on a holiday I don't want to be rushed. I mean our food came out in literally three minutes. Then the waiter kept walking by eyeing our plates to see if we were done. My husband and I both got the steak frites and I had to spit so much fat from the steak in my napkin I think there was more in there than actually went in my mouth. So overall, poor food and bad service, not my idea of a great restaurant. The prices were fine and I didn't mind the decor and atmosphere.
(1)
Sarah J.
After passing by decided to try it out on a whim. French onion soup was delicious. Adorable inside! I'll definitely be back.
(5)
Double L.
This place is probably the only thing I miss about not living in the Gold Coast anymore. Maybe that and the smell of stale vomit on the weekends. I think of this place as a bit of an oasis in the Gold Coast/Viagra Triangle area. The atmosphere is really nice and their attempt to transport you to a nice little bistro in Paris is fairly effective. The staff for the most part is friendly and accommodating. The crowd is always a nice mix and the place never seemed to try to be more then it is. I'm sure it is possible to pay quite a bit more at another venue and receive the same quality service and food but that is your choice. We have tried several different things on the menu but always fall back to the Peppercorn Steak. Onion Soup is pretty tasty and they seem to have some great dessert specials on a regular basis. Probably worth checking out for an after dinner drink and dessert if you are dining some place else in the area and are looking for a change of scenery. Zinc, That's what I think. RrL
I guess it's about time that I review Bistro Zinc. I've been there a number of times now with my parents, who like the place enough to keep going back. First off: the service is excellent. Even though it's not a comparatively expensive restaurant (entrees range from $16-30), they make you feel like you're at a real first class establishment. Secondly: I don't think I'm cut out for French food. Escargot I can do, but the salmon and other cooked fishies, uh uh. So I'm usually forced into red meat or the other white meat. Or French onion soup. (If I had a better sense of humor, I'd probably write "LOL" instead of this sentence and move on.) Third: The steak frites here is teh sucks. Seriously, that piece of meat is so flat and sad. Even the big pat of herbed butter doesn't help him out. And his fried friends that live on the plate next to him, they're sad too. Fourth: Croque Monsieur is good, but not that good. He needs better cheese!!! Fifth: French onion soup is very good. Sixth: Dessert is good. Seventh: They make a great martini and a bloody brilliant bloody mary. I'm no wine some lee a (or whatever term they use when someone makes a profession of telling people how to get drunk), but their selection seems quite nice. They have a Jeroboam of Veuve on the wall to prove it. Eighth: Brunch here is the shiznitobamsnipsnapsnap. Seriously, banana nutella crepes all the time.
(4)
Craig C.
I have two comments: 1. Best Mussels in the city. 2. Best Crepes in the city. 'nuff said.
(5)
matt b.
I guess I don't know why anyone would go here on purpose, but if they did, they probably wouldn't hate it? It's middle of the road on most counts. The prices were reasonable, service was fine (borderline slow), menu was pretty typical for brunch/lunch, and food was fine. I had the Oeufs au Saumon Fum, hollandaise was fine, salmon was better than average, and a bloody mary that was actually superb. For a fallback, if you are local, it's a go.
(3)
Lisa S.
Excellent food, service, and ambiance on a recent weeknight. The mussels (appetizer) are superb. The roasted chicken was perfectly tender and so flavorful...loved the mushroom, bacon, pearl onion combo. Also tried the steak frites (delicious as well). Great place for date night!
(4)
Katie C.
You brought me Champagne when I got a new job. You brought me chocolate when cried into my wine glass about my ex. Remember that day it was like 20 below?....You...yes you....gave me the come hither stare to relax and get toasty with you. Some times you get really busy and I feel like I wither away into the crowd. Other times just a few other people are there with you and me. I love you Bistro Zinc. I honestly love you. ps- J'adore votre potage franais d'oignon
(5)
Dustin B.
Great place for a romantic dinner. Prices were quite reasonable. We were seated immediately at about 8:15 on a Sunday evening (about 45 minutes before closing time). Even this close to closing time, we received very good service. I had the carmelized onion tart for an app: oh so rich (almost too heavy). It was very good. My wife had the onion soup (as usual). It was not quite up to our standards. The cheese, crouton, and onions were very good, and the stock had a nice flavor to it but needed more body. Possible they were using a dark chicken stock instead of a beef or veal stock. I had the foie de veau (I love organ meat). Ordered medium rare. The insides were good, but the outside was a little too seared (to the point of being charred). Pommes puree were good. My wife had a chicken and mushroom crepe. Had a little too much chicken, and perhaps not quite enough mushrooms, but good other than that. Dessert was poached pears with mascarpone. My wife liked the pears, I liked the mascarpone. That works pretty well, I'd say. Brownie points for carrying Duvel. I order one whenever I can. Can't buy that one in Iowa. It was even served in a Duvel glass.
(4)
Mike G.
Found bug in $11.50 glass of wine. I'm sorry, but first impressions go a long ways. Find a cleaner establishment. (they did replace the glass of wine)
(1)
Neline S.
I am a BIG fan of French food and I took my friend to Bistrot Zinc to satisfy our fix. I ordered the Vol au Vent en Croute and it was excellent. I think I enjoyed the pastry more than the stew itself but what totally blew me away was their mousse au chocolat. The mousse was light and airy and the chocolate shavings were bittersweet. I couldn't believe how amazing this dessert was that I have no desire to try any dessert on their menu because I love this so much.
(5)
Stef B.
You can't go wrong grabbing lunch here! I've tried it all, soup & sandwich, quiche, French Onion soup... its all delicious! I've only been here for lunch, and they're never really busy so it's a nice calm, relaxing place to go. The interior is great, it really does feel like you stepped right out of Chicago and into France. I am a supporter!
(4)
Annie S.
I don't understand why people think this place is so great for brunch (no offense to fellow reviewers) but my friends and I thought it was pretty mediocre. We ordered eggs benedict, omelet w/salad and the basic breakfast w/ eggs, toast, ham and potatoes. The portions were pretty small (which makes sense since we are in a french restaurant) but the dishes were pretty bland. What I liked the most was the potatoes. We also had mimosas, which I thought was pricey at $9/glass. However, the service was great and the staff are really nice. The decor is pleasant and it was fun to people watch as well. It was a really diverse group of eaters, which is always nice to see. I don't think I will ever go back for the brunch but I might try it for dinner sometime. The location is great and it would be fun to go back in the summertime.
(2)
Abby S.
It wasn't that the food wasn't wonderful, but good food is nothing in comparison to great service. I am aged 21 and an undergraduate at Columbia College Chicago where I study fiction writing. I am meek in stature, only coming up to 5'1". Why am I saying this here? It is because I was looked down the long, aquiline nose of both host and server upon entering the restaurant. My attire? More than appropriate. My autonomy? On or above par. My company? Educated and observant of nice restaurant doctrine. Nevertheless, we were discriminated against. Maybe because we were young, maybe because we were women, it is unknown why. I had gone there twice previously in the afternoon during last year, however, the third time did not serve me well at all. For this, my vote for Bistrot Zinc went down considerably. I am by no means the final say, and I hope those who go there whom are in the same position as me have finer service than I did; I am just saying I would be wary to travel there again.
(2)
Joshua M.
First off I'm a bit biased. I think French stuff is overrated. I know I know, they are so romantic. But you know there is a reason they are attacked first in every world war. Despite this I was a good sport and tried Bistrot Zinc. And you know what, I had a great banana and nutella crepe, with a side of extra crispy bacon. It was kinda pricey for what it was, but definitely good. The service however was just weird, and that was where BZ lost some stars with me.
(3)
Karen W.
Mmmmmmm... Delicious! Had pork cheeks tonight, usually have trout, always have mussels or escargot as an appetizer. My husband loves the chicken crepe, the salmon, and calves liver. Atmosphere is outstanding! Music is superb. Great place for a comfortable, delectable meal. Oh wait -- the bread!!!! Go try it
(5)
Nicole L.
I love this spot for a morning brunch in a quaint French setting. I recently had dinner here for the first time and was very pleased with the experience. The ladies at the table next to us were drinking kir royales so I of course had to order one as well...loved it. As an appetizer we tried the mussels, which were extremely flavorful and were deemed the best mussels ever by my dining companion. Additionally, the service was fantastic and very willing to answer any questions about the menu. I highly recommend Bistrot Zinc for anyone in the mood for good food in a sophisticated atmosphere!
(5)
Patrick P.
Despairing that Brasserie JO closed since my last Chicago visit, I tried Bistrot Zinc. Didn't take long to feel at home, with the casual French decor and a great meal at the (real zinc) bar. Bartender Lisa is the consummate host with the perfect mix of attentiveness, conversation and reserve. Her seasonal herb-infused cocktail list is creative, informed and not to be missed.
(5)
Klaas V.
Excellent, their steak was fantastic and very reasonable at 29 dollars. Nice ambiance, good service. Really enjoyed it, thanks.
(5)
D S.
Very disappointing experience. It looked so promising when we were given a table by the window early on a Saturday night. We ordered a bottle of wine and the snail appetizer was pretty good. Next, my friend ordered the sea bass entree and I ordered the salad frisse with a chicken crepe. The waiter asked if I wanted the salad and "small plate" appetizer crepe together and I said yes. Ten minute later he came over and said the kitchen would not serve both together because "there wasn't enough real estate on the table". Well, it was a Saturday night and I didn't feel like fighting so I let the salad, poached egg and all, sit ther until my crepe came out so I could enjoy a conversation with my friend and we could eat together. And, sure enough, both my salad and "small plate" appetizer fit just fine on the table. Of course, it would have fit a little better if the large salad wasn't so unballanced with way too much lettuce to go with the other ingredients. I wouldn't have even noticed or wrote this negative review if the ktchen hadn't forced me to notice. The waiter was pretty nice otherwise, the egg was perfectly poached but the crepe was kind of dougy. I can't imagine I'll be dying to go back any time soon.
(2)
Isa B.
The ambiance is great, the wine was delicious, the service is very nice, but the food wasn't WOW. Very decent though but nothing to die for. My mom, who is French, had a Steak au Poivre that was ok, same thing with my husband. I had a Vegetable sandwich that was ok, but the salad didn't have much flavor. Other than that, we might go back again just to test our luck.
(3)
Gracie K.
This place is solid. Every time I go, I enjoy my meal and my service. The food is tasty and (I think) reasonably priced. The waiters are always very attentive and friendly, and the restaurant pulls off a sort of neighborhood feel. I would recommend their soups (butternut squash in particular) and (bien sur) the croque monsieur. Intense, but delicious. The steak frites is also reliable (the frites are quite good!) and the desserts are not to be missed. I always leave this place happy, full, and not too poor.
(5)
Clark K.
Went there recently and had onion soup and sandwich, food was good, but the staff looked miserable, not one smile in the place, come on, lighten up a little, at least fake it
(2)
Sally B.
A civilized gem in the middle of madness on State Street. I couldn't believe how delicious and original the Trio Salad was - orange watermelon? You've got to be kidding me! It was delicious. So was the Escargot. The Walleye was tasteless and seemed to be breaded, which I didn't like. But the environment is comfortable, and yes Parisian.
(4)
Alex A.
2.5 stars. I went there for a Sunday brunch because of a tropical rain outside. It looked nice. However I was overall quite disappointed by the food and the service. We ordered: - Brioche French Toast, with Vanilla mascarpone & fresh berries. The mascarpone was super thick and the berries average. - Granola, Fruit & Yogurt -- I asked for the Granola, Fruit & Yogurt Crêpe without the crepe in order to have granola, and they said sure, no problem, and just brought me the filling, with almost no granola. I guess I got what I asked for, but still.. And the fruit was mainly a banana The place was not authentic. No French server at all. We found old lettuce on our bench, and the coffee was average. I would not go back except to take cover from another tropical rain
(2)
Cristal P.
I went here with a girlfriend 2 nights ago after some shopping nearby, and we really enjoyed ourselves. We split a bottle of the Vouvray demi-sec, which was excellent. Their wine list is (predictably) mostly French, which I appreciate. It's also not so big as to be overwhelming, but still has a good selection. After going back and forth between the Lyonnaise salad and the cream of parsnip soup, we both opted for the soup. It was okay, a little too sweet and rich for me to finish more than half of my bowl. I ordered the grilled salmon for my main plate, and it was SO GOOD. Perfectly cooked and flavorful, it literally fell apart from the smallest pressure of my fork. My companion ordered the trout, which she said was good. For dessert, we split the almond butter cake. I'm a huge fan of Mastro's butter cake, but this one was a pretty damn close second. I will definitely be returning for the atmosphere and food.
(4)
Bonnie L.
We've been here a couple of times and were disappointed both times. 1. Service was noticeably slow. Not sure why when we were there past the lunch rush both times. 2. Food has been inconsistent and underwhelming. - French onion soup was super salty the first time. Second time there was no salt so it actually tasted sweet, probably because of the onions. - Crepes were decent but not impressive - Salad chevre was good the first time, inedible the second. Waaaay too much vinegar that it was inedible. Today I asked our waitress to take a picture of me and my mom since we were there to celebrate my birthday. While mom went to the restroom, the waitress took care of other customers and said she'd be back. Mom came back but the waitress never did. But she did pretend not to notice us when we left.
(2)
Simon L.
We went to Bistro Zinc only once, but that was our last time. Pluses: - Great location in the Gold Coast area. During nice days they leave the windows wide open, creating a very pleasant environment. Minuses: - Food is just average. - The service was terrible. When the waiter poured water into my wife's glass, he did it from the other side of the table. Condensate was dripping from the jug to my wife's knife. My wife asked for another knife. When the waiter went to the back, we saw him complaining to another waiter. Also, when we were done, it took a while before we get any attention. Conclusion: We won't go back again.
(2)
Randall O.
We went here for lunch. The place is very nice. Sat by the window. Service was good and friendly. We both had soup, I had cauliflower and my wife had onion. I highly recommend the onion. I had chicken and mushroom crepes. Very filling and good flavor. My wife had the tuna and loved it. Done to her liking. I would come here again.
(5)
Taffi S.
While walking through Viagra Triangle, we have always commented on wanting to try Bistrot Zinc...last night was our first shot. While our visit wasn't terrible, it certainly wasn't memorable, so a return isn't on our horizon. We were promptly seated by the window, given bread, water, and menus. Started off on the right foot...however...it then took 20 minutes or so for our waitress to come and take our drink orders. Before she trotted off, we quickly suggested we should order. During this entire process, she was curt and acted as if we were an imposition on her evening. So we waited...and waited...and waited, and then 15 minutes later we finally got our drinks. Our food arrived... We had the French onion soup...lukewarm, flavor was OK (go to Bistrot Margot for better)...mussels, flavor was OK - they tasted like they were steamed and then thrown in a sauce at the last minute, (go to HB, not French, but fantastic for more flavor)...and lastly, the croque monsieur, which wasn't the melt in your mouth decadent sandwich we were hoping for. The ham tasted like it came directly from Oscar Meyer and the cheese and bread were one big greasy mess. On the plus side...the pomme frites were wonderful! hand cut fries that were perfectly seasoned and crisp. I definitely understand that some nights the food, staff, or the atmosphere may be off. It just so happened that two out of the three were off at the same time for us. With so many other spectacular culinary choices in the city, we will just have to pass.
A nice little French bistro in the Gold Coast. Overall, I enjoyed it, even if I felt it was average. The wait staff are somewhat aloof and unattentive for my taste, but certainly not bad by any means. Because of BZ's location, there are a lot of older people dining there. Again not a bad thing, just different. The food is good, filling, and on par with typical Bistro fare pricewise, if a bit "uninspired". I really enjoyed the Tarte L'Oginon for an appetizer and the Poulet Roti (not called Roti here though, even if that's what it is) was cooked perfectly. The wine list is ok - if I were more of a wine snob, I might have been very upset with that fact that they list a 2004 Guigal but brought to our table a 2005. **UPDATE**: I've returned to BZ several times since writing this review and can say that's it's become my "regular" bistro. I believe I just had a bad waiter (haven't seen that one since) and have had a great time in all but that one occasion.
(4)
Amy S.
We had a great experience at Bistrot Zinc. The waiter was very attentive and all of the food was wonderful. The special stew of the day was a pork and apple flavored with lavender. Very good. Definitely a good value.
(4)
Car M.
Lunch was good - I got the quiche of the day. If I'm in the neighborhood, I'll stop in, but probably wouldn't go out of my way to eat there.
(3)
Irene K.
That was french food likes,we do not expect authentic,but at least get it to test similar,service was weary good
(2)
Jessica M.
I had a long lunch with a girlfriend at Bistrot Zinc today. All in all it was a great experience. The ambience of the place is adorable -- tile floor, classic bar, potted palms -- very "cute corner bistro." And the food was also quite good, though not the best French cuisine I've had in Chicago (that would be Bistro Campagne or Marche). But definitely still four-star worthy. The service left a little bit to be desired -- our waiter just seemed a bit checked out, but no major gaffes or anything. All in all a very pleasant place for a long lunch with a girlfriend.
(4)
Jenna D.
There was one day when I......er...I mean a "friend" of mine may have accidentally eaten two brunches in one day. But, it wasn't my fault...they have banana nutella crepes! I mean it wasn't HER fault....my friend that is.
(5)
Fred S.
This was one of the most disappointing dining experiences we have had during the eight months we have been back in Chicago. We had really been looking forward to going to B. Zinc, for the reviews on Yelp are really strong and the atmosphere (from looking in the front window) appeared to be incredible. Well, the atmosphere is amazing. The food - well, the night we went it really wasn't very good. The mediocre food combined with our expectations meant that we left disappointed. We started with a drink at the bar, and they had a nice selection of French wines by the glass. That being said, you are much better off ordering a bottle of wine. Their wine glasses are small. So, while the prices on their "by the glass" selections seem reasonable, they aren't all that reasonable when you consider the glass size. The bar has a great feel to it though, and they place what appear to be homemade potato crisps on the bar for you to have as a snack. When we were seated we ordered a salad and an appetizer to share. Given the cost of the salad ($9), we figured that it would be enough for us to share. Wrong. The $9 goat cheese salad is definitely a one person appetizer size salad. It was our fault for not asking if it was a large or small salad, but $9 for an appetizer salad (given the price of the entrees) is really steep. The salad was good, but not great. I definitely would not order it again. We also ordered the escargot. The escargot are great; the bread that they serve with your meal is not. The poor quality of the bread (for me) makes eating escargot much less of a treat. I wouldn't order them again simply because the bread on the table is so bad. (Of the "bistros" we have been to - Kiki's, Mon Ami Gabi, Brasserie Jo - Bistro Zinc's bread is by far the worst.) Our entrees were good, not great. I had the lamb shoulder. It was tasty, but very, very fatty. The price was reasonable given the size of the dish ($19). I want to go back to Bistro Zinc, for I have to believe that they had an off night. I rarely find that so many people on Yelp will rave about a restaurant when it is as average as this place was on our first visit. Nonetheless, based on our one visit I couldn't recommend Bistro Zinc - I would tell you to go to Kiki's Bistro or Mon Ami Gabi instead.
I'm giving this a 4.5 rating, maybe 5. Probably helps that we live a stones throw from the place and consider it an easy go to. Bistrot Zinc feels like a little slice of Europe with the tiled floors and big zinc bar (with the best home made potato chips ever). It's a little pricey for your average week night out, but it's just one of those places that you feel great eating in and the crowd is MUCH better than it's neighboring choices- Carmines, Gibsons, Tavern- yuck. Wine is good, food is standard french fare, always good (not reinventing the wheel but always good), delicious dessert and even better cappuccinos.
(5)
Callan C.
Great spot, stopped by for lunch randomly and it was delicious. A little pricey, but good atmosphere.
(4)
Christine C.
Scallops were great!!! Roast chicken not the best. We went for brunch and it was wonderful. The French toast was delicious. Cozy atmosphere!
(5)
Anonymous P.
Having lived in Chicago, I've never been a fan of the restaurants around Rush Street, but I was in the area and dropped into Bistrot Zinc for brunch. Very nice and open layout, stylish but not stuffy. The staff was great and the meal was excellent starting with the coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice to the crepe with the side of bacon. It's never a wrong time to eat bacon. Makes me miss living in Chicago, but then I realize it's 10 degrees outside and I realize why I don't live here anymore.
(4)
Kirstie M.
Oh, how I miss Bistrot Zinc! My husband and I spent a year living in Chicago, just a short walk down State Street from this cozy little Gold Coast gem, so named because of their handcrafted zinc bar. OK, I must confess, we went in the first time after getting one of their coupons in the mail. The place looked so charming, and it was just too good of a deal to pass up! But we fell in love with it on the first visit and kept going back. Anniversaries, birthdays, date nights, Thursday afternoons...we were always finding reasons to go to Bistrot Zinc. We brunched, we lunched, we dined, we drank and we always felt like we were in our own little secret spot. Never touristy, Bistrot Zinc feels like a tucked-away neighborhood spot in an area that's overrun with trendy bars and expense-check restaurants. My menu faves included: the Brioche French Toast (with vanilla marscapone and fresh berries...yum!), Le Royale (a fantastic burger, which, while it's only on the lunch menu, you can get at dinner if you ask), the Tarts au Saumon Fume appetizer, the Vol au Vent stew (which changes daily), the Steak Frites, the Steak au Poivre and the Nutella crepes (hold the banana, please). Adding to the charm of Bistrot Zinc is an authentic French bistrot vibe and a great staff, including Wes, the day manager, a total sweetheart of a guy. The next time we can make it back to Chicago, Bistrot Zinc will definitely be one of the first stops on our list. But for now, tell Wes we said hello.
(5)
Caroline T.
It is sort of exactly what I expected. Seemingly amazing from the outside- but just A-ok food--- for a fine food price--- which is how all of the restaurants on the Gold Coast/ Rush strip seem to be. My spinach goat salad was fine- it was just that. The Salmon I was disappointed with--- way too much orange sauce of some sort-salmon was overcooked- and not enough quiona (sp). BUT the chocolate mouse was divine- not much you can do to mess that up! I did also enjoy the escargots and the ambiance- which were both straight out of Paris. So do I recommend this place? Not really- maybe lunch is better? Its just too typical here.
(3)
Erika G.
I love going here for weekend breakfast/brunch. Eeeet eees so French! If I lived closer, I'd be hangin' out at the bar a LOT more. Fun place, unpretentious and lots of character.
(4)
Hurricane H.
Being an out-of-towner, we were just looking for a good place to eat lunch. Bistrot Zinc was a beautiful Parisian respite from the gritty streets of Chicago. An oasis of French neighborhood bistro fare amongst the requisite Rush Street pizza or burger places. I had the Croque Monsieur with an appetizer of Fois Gras. My tablemate ordered the onion soup and the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb sandwich, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli). We shared. It was a great lunch. When we left, I felt like I'd had a vacation from my vacation. Ahhhhhhh. (But BEWARE, finding a parking spot in this neighborhood is next to impossible!)
(5)
Sarah M.
I love Bistrot Zinc. My husband and I eat here a lot and it's also a great place to bring the kids in the early evening--wonderful children's menu and very friendly staff. It's also great for lunch--solid lunch menu and really reasonable prices. Great escargot and a wonderful blue cheese burger. Some dishes miss the mark but over all, a great neighborhood bistro for a casual lunch or dinner.
(4)
Natasha M.
The most horrible food in Chicago out of the 90 restaurants we have tried. So almost every Friday night, my boyfriend and I would go find a new restaurant to dine in. It was a lively Friday night and we walked around Loop and Gold Coast, starting Hubbard st all the way up to Goethe St up north, walking in blocks to find a new restaurant we haven't tried. We walked for 2.5 hours. We walked around Rush St. It was about 9pm and most restaurants were full besides Bistro Zinc. We decided not to try it, but after walking for another 30 min, we came back since there is no waiting line. The atmosphere was above average, but the food as absolutely horrible that I can't give it more than a 1 star. I ordered Liver Pate (around $19) and my boyfriend ordered a quite expensive steak ($25), and it turned out that they looked like the same and tasted like the same. The steak was even smaller than my Pate. I am a Liver person, but this is not right. As I was about to finish my tiny Live Pate dish, I GAGGED because It was so gross and salty and full of a smelly taste and blood dripping out. I could not finish the dish and my poor boyfriend finished it for me since his steak was tinier. The waiter told me the Cyder drink I order was $3.25 and it turned out to be a small bottle and it was $4.50. We walked away, spending $30/pp, feeling that we just wasted so much money and time. I have been to France several times, and this place basically destroyed my impression of French food. 0 Star if I there is a choice.
(1)
Brenna M.
I second, and third and fourth a lot of the reviews about this place. It is classy without being snobby, and the food is good, although I woldn't say outstanding...maybe that's because I thought there was too much cheese on my french onion soup. However, my friend got mad and boldly stated "There is no such thing as too much cheese". So there you have it. Also gets an extra star because it's the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with the people next to you and make new friends!!
(4)
Corinne M.
My favorite restaurant in Chicago. This may be because I love all things French, especially the food. Bistrot Zinc is a wonderful place for brunch as it's casual, classy and unpretentious at the same time. The prices are really reasonable and they have the best Eggs Benedict in the city (a light lemony Hollandaise). The decor is charming and the French music they play is light and pleasant. The sandwiches here are really tasty and the crepes are yummy as well. The coffee and tea here are delicious and the Creme Brulee is pretty great too. It's never too crowded for weekend brunch and if your lucky you can get a seat in the window and watch some of the Gold Coast's characters as you eat a delicious and reasonably priced meal.
(5)
Jean C.
A few years ago I had brunch here. I had a chicken and mushroom crepe. I didn't like it... it was bland and salty. The brunch may be better now, but this was my experience.
(2)
David W.
We just found this place while walking Rush Street on an oddly busy Wednesday night and were happy with the food. If they had not put us near the kitchen, the rating would have been higher. We enjoyed the mussels (what a cream sauce!), grandmother's chicken, and pork cheeks. Like most French-dolts, the only pressure is being able to order the food that I'm just not sure how to pronounce and a few I wondered what they even were... Over all, good food....
(3)
Cole D.
I've been here a couple of times for brunch/lunch. Good, consistent, typical French bistro fare. Nothing like a croque monsieur and a plate of pommes frites after a night of overindulgence. I can also vouch for the onion soup, which is almost a necessity on a frigid Chicago day.
(3)
Rob S.
When I long for France, I go to Bistro Zinc. It feels like I'm in Paris here, and tastes like it, too. I always order pastisse or Pernod. Great service, great drinks, and super desserts...j'suis pret!
(3)
J S.
I've gone 3 times- twice for dinner and once for brunch- and had mixed experiences in terms of food quality and service. While I don't recommend it without caveats, I think it's a place that prepares a few menu items exceptionally well while offering an intimate French setting. The key is identifying the items that are exceptional while avoiding the disappointing ones. Of course, I can only speak of my experience... The good: the lamb sandwich and bouillabaisse. Both are excellent and merit a trip to the restaurant. The bad: french onion soup (far too sweet) and croque madame (bechamel sauce, please?). Hope this helps anyone considering dining here.
(3)
Lindsee R.
My first time here, I loved! it. I had the spinach omlette and my friend and I shared the profiterole and apple tart desserts. The second time however, I also had the omlette, but ham this time and it was perfectly delicious, but the apple tart had changed into some sort of reheated frozen concoction with jar sauce. I don't know what was going on that day or if they've just traded in their old recipe, but it kind of made me not want to go back. If I want frozen, reheated desserts I'll go to Bennegin's.
(3)
Jessica Y.
Here for brunch again! Delicious french toast and great coffee. Attentive waiter and we made it before the crowd when we arrived at 11 on a Sunday. They didn't rush us out while we nursed our coffee and chatted. A+
(4)
Alice H.
This is my version of comfort food. If I've had a long day... maybe I missed lunch, maybe I'm exhausted at the end of the week, I crave Bistro Zinc. Specifically, I crave their fries. To me, they have the perfect fries. Thin, salty, crispy. Perfect ratio of potato to skin. I love them! In addition to my ginormous plate of fries, I will usually also enjoy the rainbow trout with spinach and cherry tomatoes or the poulet grand-mere. Those two are my favorite. Both are wonderful dishes. I am a creature of habit so I tend to always get one of those two dishes. I rarely deviate, and when I do, I tend to regret doing so. The service is always wonderful. The staff is incredibly attentive, not pushy. The atmosphere of the restaurant is charming and sweet (very much in line with being a french bistro), but it is also very comfortable and relaxing. I never feel rushed, and that's important. The last thing I want when I've had a stressful week at work is to feel like I'm being rushed at dinner on a Friday night. On top of that, I've rarely ever had to wait for a table. There's usually always a small table or seat at the bar to munch at. For someone who rarely has the foresight to make a reservation, I know I can walk in here on a Friday or Saturday night, and not have a problem. Bistro Zinc = comfort, easy, tasty.
(4)
Margreth C.
I've been wanting to try this place since I moved to the Gold Coast in the summer. Decided to try it for restaurant week and glad that I did! I got the scallop/salmon appetizer, which was good. I prefer hot foods but it was still good. For my main entree, I got the steak and fries (my favorite)! It was a pretty big portion, which I was surprised. I had the steak medium well, and it was just right! For dessert, I had the coffee one and that just ended it with a bang! Overall, I was satisfied with the restaurant as a whole. The service was great! Anytime I had my water half empty, they would make their rounds, which I never had to ask for a refill! The server was very attentive and always made sure we were okay. I would definitely come back again!
(4)
Peter W.
We had a friend coming in from New York and decided to go for Sunday Brunch. A friend of mine recommended Bistrot Zinc and when I looked up the location, I was really thrown off. It is right next to the Viagra Triangle and we're not a fan of the scene around there. But the other reviews were good and the photos looked great, so we decided why not try it out. I'm so glad we went there. The staff was extremely friendly, the decor was actually little more like a Brasserie (a little more ornate) than a Bistro, the scene was not full of Trixies, and the food was delicious! I happy to know that I found a place in that area that I actually feel comfortable bringing out-of-towners to. We'll be back!
Where to start...One: The steak frites is amazing, I ate it in like a minute and a half. Two: I'm ashamed to say I ate two meals. One being the steak frites and the other being banana and Nutella crepes. (It was easter and I mean why not) Three: The staff was really friendly... actually it was probably because I like doubled the waiter's tip with all my food. Four: They ask if you would like dessert...at ten am...ok... Five: The food comes pretty quick and its clearly not prepackaged crud from like a multibillion dollar food company. Six: I'm going back, definitely
(5)
Charles S.
Had a first date here, and everything was fantastic. We tried escargot, had a great bottle of red wine, and our entrees were great. I would recommend this place to anyone. Watch out though - it gets pretty packed so make a reservation.
(5)
N Q.
Actually they deserve 3 1/2 stars, but Yelp doesn't do half stars. I am making it 3 then, rather than rounding up to 4, since the service was painfully slow. The food was decent. I had the duck, which was a special, and asked for it medium rare. It came out too rare, almost rubbery, but they fixed it when I asked, which was good. I also had the beet salad which was alright, not bad but nothing to write home mom about. Service knocks off a 1/2 star, since it was so slow, although my server was perfectly friendly and polite, there were whole stretches of time I was essentially ignored. It's just good to check up on someone occasionally, you know? Also, I wouldn't normally mind paying these prices for better food (the duck was about $25), but unfortunately the food quality and taste doesn't quite match the price tag. I may come again, however, as the atmosphere was quiet yet comfortable, pretty decent, conversation-friendly noise level, and I like that. Perhaps my experience will be better next time. By the way, I also ordered this chocolate mousse dessert which was nice. Not spectacular, but it hit the spot! They gave me raspberries with it too, upon request. Chocolate and raspberries = A nice way to end the meal :)
(3)
Larry S.
Third visit and my opinion has not changed. This place is the real deal. Had superb French Onion Soup and a perfectly prepared soft shelled crab over a corn and pepper salsa. Cant go wrong!
(5)
Nelson M.
Restaurant Review French Bistro in the Gold Coast! I came here for my three year wedding anniversary for lunch with my wife and son. I was not disappointed. You would think having a 8 month old with you would be a problem in a french bistro, but no. The staff was super friendly and placed us at a table where we could easily fit the stroller. The menu prices for this area were quite good. We started off with the house pate, a bit gamey for my taste but ample portions for the price you pay. I wish they would give you more bread with the pate. I ended up with a lighter meal by selecting the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli) As other's commented the onion was way too much and had to be removed from the sandwich, but otw the lamb was cooked well and the seasoning went well with the protein. I can't say it was the best sandwich I ever had, but I will be back to try the other french bistro items. 4 stars as being a promising restaurant that I will have to come back and try more items. Pro- friendly service, good price, great ambiance Con- more bread with the pate please! Hidden deal- None
(4)
Joe S.
Overall, I'd probably say 2.5 stars. Our server was a bit in your face. Pointed at the specials, grunted..he was inattentive at best, forgot wine order, kinda aloof. The food was average. The highlight was probably the french onion soup. I had the chicken with fingerling potatoes and my wife had the parmesan pepper crusted steak. Both were mediocre. I noticed someone else mentioned the wine..I have no issue paying $12-$16 for a glass of wine provided its quality. The french pinot noir was decent enough, but the rest was average.
(2)
Ruma T.
Just went there last night with friends for the first time and it was good. I think its more like a 3.5 and I wish the star system had 10 stars instead of 5 because that would make it much easier to rate. Anyway, besides the point. We had wine..of course. They had a variety of wines by the glass and we tried quite a few and they were delicious. We got the arugula salad and it was alright. The entrees that impressed were the salmon and skate. I'd definitely recommend it and I'm not even typically a fan of salmon. The caramelized oniony topping on it was perfect although I wish it was warm instead of cold. Worth a visit. Good atmosphere, great for a date, and not too crowded or difficult to park.
Very good food. Clean, crisp, and tasty. Ambiance is more traditional. Try the French soup and walleye. Service is top notch.
(5)
Bri A.
Chez Moi is my favorite French restaurant in the city, but this is now my second! I came here for brunch with my family and everyone, even my 4 year old niece, loved their food. The menu has standard, simple French fare, but it's GOOD. I'm not a big onion fan so I didn't try the French onion soup, but everyone raved about it. Escargot was buttery, garlicy and delicious. I had a sandwich with turkey, fig jam, brie and watercress which was tasty, but I regret not getting a crepe! The truffle egg salad is so good, too. I loved the ambiance and our waiter was so nice! He made sure to bring my niece's sandwich ASAP when she proclaimed, "I'm STARVING!" lol. Brunch was great and I'd like to come back for dinner.
(5)
Charlie B.
I don't give out 5 stars lightly; this place deserves them. We (just) had brunch/lunch, ~2PM Saturday. My husband had the best french toast of his life (this is saying something). Practically a souffle it was so light and custardy. I had the onion soup and the tuna salad, both terrific. The soup: I never order french onion soup; it usually gives me a headache it's so oniony. Glad I did today - this was sweet and rich, the onions totally caramelized. And LOADED with melted gruyere (I omitted the bread as I don't eat wheat). Almost a fondue. Yummy and a surprisingly rich, filling first course. Then Salade de Thon: barely seared slices of delicate tuna over a little fennel salad with wedges of roasted artichokes, with an amazing coulis of green onion on the side. And a nice kalamata olive tapenade on toast. Just delightful, and original too. The service was prompt, attentive, friendly. All in all this was as good a lunch as you can get. $70 for 2 with wine and generous tip. There were lots of other good-sounding things on the menu so we'll prob go back while we're here.
(5)
Michael G.
My only other French Bistro experience was Le Bouchon in Bucktown/Wicker, and of the two, this is the favorite by a longshot. No knowledge of French food whatsoever did not create any setbacks here, from the conscientious waiter who offered middle of the road flavors in both red and white wines (just ask him, I can't remember their names, Bon Iver looking fellow, great dude) to their incredible French Onion appetizer, we'll get to entree's in a bit. Just want to stop and say I ate Pate here bc of that line in Ace Ventura...you know the one...and I now think as a whole it's gross. Can't fault Bistrot for that, but it's something to know. My lovely date had a chicken dish (that was flavored with bacon or ham! That's cheating! And it's genius!), with fresh garlic cloves, small onions, and potatoes : mind blowing. I'd come back for that alone. Had the Steak and Frite everyone has talked about here, and it is more than worth your time. I ordered medium, when I should've went Medium Rare though. I believe this is a sign they take their meat seriously. Best Creme Brulee I've had, a portion worth the price, ambiance at every turn : this place is a winner. Slapping the As Good As It Gets tag doesn't seem fair since I have almost no prior knowledge of French cuisine, but please please come here and give these ppl your business! Their beards are almost as powerful as their food.
(4)
Emma K.
Nom nom nom.... I came here last night for girl's dinner with four of my friends. We had a reservation, but the restaurant was probably 2/3 empty. My friend who did make the reservation said that they didn't require the entire party to be there before seated - major PLUS (especially since I'm always the late one)! Our food came our quickly and was so yummy. I got the Crepe a La Ratatouille which has goat cheese and vegetables. It was the perfect size and filling without being too heavy. I do feel like this is super picky ... but all of the goat cheese on mine was on one side. I'm sure that's just how you make a crepe (I will be able to tell you after my crepe making class Sunday), but it just made it difficult to get that perfect bite. All of my friends enjoyed their meals too - the Crepe Au Polet, Croque Minsieur, and Risotto. (Excuse my French if I misspelled anything.) We shared a bottle of wine and our dinners were only $22/person. The atmosphere was nice and upscale without being pretentious. The service was great too. Our server was there explaining the menu and refilling our wine glasses when needed, but very unobtrusive and quiet. Splitting the bill was a piece of cake. I had a hard time deciding between the Crepe and the Vol-au-vent .... and I definitely want to come back to try the latter soon!
(4)
Jerry L.
Good bistro comfort food on a chilly Chicago afternoon...roast chicken with a side of fries hit the spot!
(3)
Melanie A.
This used to be my go-to French bistro, but it's really gone downhill in the past few years. When we sat at our table we noticed a gross chunk of something under one of the chairs, looked like something a dog threw up, and trying to flag someone down was impossible, so we had to grab a napkin from the bar and clean it up ourselves. The food is nothing spectacular, the chocolate pot de creme by no means lives up to it's name or what it's supposed to be. Highly disappointed and won't be back.
(2)
Monica L.
Went to Bistro Zinc for a mother daughter night, my mother and I have been to many french bistro and Bistro Zinc stood far above the others. Reminding us of our trip to Paris, the cuisine and atmosphere were spot on. We loved our from scratch cocktails and the charming company of our waiter. I wish I could recall his name, he was the best waiter I have EVER had, that man deserves a raise! I had the stew du jour and it was a fantastic traditional dish. The chocolat mousse was to die for. Highly reccomend Bistro Zinc and hope to be returning again soon.
(5)
Robert P.
We have been to Bistrot Zinc many times. It has provided a touch of Paris for us when we are not in Paris. We always liked the laid back atmosphere and good food. Maybe things were not so good because it was valentines day but overall we were disappointed. The bar was great as usual and the bartender was fantastic. Our table experience was something else. Jose, our server, was not friendly or attentive. We felt very rushed. The food appeared within ten minutes and looked as though it was pre-prepared and sitting under a heat lamp. The dessert, pot au creme, was definitely prepared well in advance with a skim surface on top indicating it's age. We know they are better than this.
(2)
Paul T.
Superb, simply superb. I've been dining there for years, and Bistrot Zinc is remarkably consistent. Friendly, knowledgeable waiters, many of whom having been there for years. Highly recommended.
(5)
Ryan W.
Now we will start with the positives: super cute decor and solid menu. The rating comes from the service aspect of my experience. We sat there at our table for a solid 10 minutes waiting to be greeted. The place didn't look particularly busy but who knows what the servers actual situation was, but some acknowledgement of that is always nice because then I'm not assuming the worst. He was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and took our order right away. Never saw him again until we almost finished our meals. Typically if my meal comes out correctly or I don't need anything I don't really mind but my burger was cooked medium well instead of medium rare and I would've loved some Dijon. I don't blame the server for burger being overcooked, I do fault him for not checking on our meals to make sure they were correct. Overall it was a nice place and I live right there so I'll give it another shot and hopefully the service aspect was a fluke.
(3)
Daria D.
I went there for a date, the atmosphere was amazing and the service was impeccable. I had the escargot and calfs liver. I have never had both but this was one of the best meals I've had in a long time. I definitely will recommend this place to everyone I know.
(5)
Tim T.
Absolute favorite French restaurant in Chicago. Every time we go, it gets better. The wait staff is very knowledgeable about the menu, the service is excellent, and the food is divine. It's just delicious French comfort food and so authentic. My highest compliments.
(5)
Carol K.
Consistently good food, excellent service and lovely ambiance. I haven't been here is awhile and the whole time I was here I was wondering why I had stayed away for so long? I guess just too many great restaurants in Chicago and too little time. Well no problem as I was warmly welcomed and shown to a table with a group of friends. I was late so they were already a few martinis ahead of me but no problem- our server quickly rectified that situation! The food here is always good so we tried a few of the special appetizers to share (watermelon with feta, snails (delicious!), mussel (always my fav) and the pate (some of the best in the city!) For my entree I had the steak and frites which was perfectly cooked and most of the table had the fish special of the day which was the barramundi served over green beans. Simple food but always good. Our server, Bryan, was great! He even recognized me from a place he used to work (how do they do that?) and was very attentive throughout our meal. I loved his laugh as he is one of those rare servers who really seems to like his job so it seems like you are just sitting down at a table in his home. We all commented on how great he was which was no small feat given I was with a group from New York who seem to always start with what the problems are! Tres Bon in every way- Bistro Zinc is a great neighborhood place that takes wonderful care of it's guests!
(4)
Stephanie C.
Check out the strange little custom of boiled eggs at the bar! I am a solo traveler and paid two visits during a weekend trip to Chicago. Francophiles should easily feel at home here, wayward travelers, too. Genial staff; crisp, clean interiors; and hot, fresh, satisfying food, much of it standard French bistro food but with a bit of dash. Best of all: French wines by the glass. Try the mussels and pate selections. Bon appetit!
(5)
May Y.
Average food but a homey restaurant in a chill neighborhood. While some of my friends like Gold Coast a lot, I am more of an Old Town girl, especially my favorite restaurant Kamehachi and my favorite floral store A New Leaf are there. Nonetheless, Gold Coast is a great neighborhood. If you have to wait for a friend prior to lunch or dinner, you can stop by Barnes and Nobles or Anthropologist right across the street. Although the salad was average, the apple pie had a crispy edge that went well with the vanilla ice cream. The waiters were also very attentive. I would recommend you stopping by this little place if you are in the neighborhood. Food: 3 Service: 3 Decor: 4
(3)
F D.
Just dined here tonight. Love the quaint atmosphere, if only they would play french music instead of American pop, the ambience would be complete. Although, our waiter left much to be desired in terms of service. Very slow and neglectful, and the place was only 25% occupied. Unfortunately I didn't try some of the more popular dishes - regretting that. We started with the duck pate and ratatouille. The pate was fine, ratatouille was extremely overcooked and tasted like it had been reheated a dozen times. Then I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, terrible mistake, not good at all. Taste-less boiled chicken, thrown in the oven to crisp the skin, over a bed of gravy with pearl onions, baby potatoes, and bacon. Flavors didn't mesh well at all, I ended up picking out the pieces of bacon and potatoes instead. My companion had the onion soup, very nice and flavorful. We ended with the almond butter cake and it was pretty good. A little dry, could've used a butter sauce over it, but the flavor was good. All in all, I'd go back, but definitely try other dishes.
(3)
Craig R.
My wife and I have been here a number of times considering its close proximity to our old apartment. My thoughts: -Very great atmosphere, traditional French decor, quiet and classy -There's no TV at the bar so the bartender talks to you which is awesome -It's super easy to walk in any weeknight and just sit down which is great -The wait staff is really on top of it, very attentive and helpful -It is quite accessible, 22/36/Red Line all drop off right near it -The two food highlights from my side are: --The mussels are an easy 5/5 for me, ask for extra bread to dip!! --The Croque Monsiuer is a 4/5, I like the bread crispier --All other food has been tasty, these are just the most memorable I will definitely be back again in the future.
(4)
Ray M.
Great French atmosphere inside. Busy and bustling staff pacing back and forth to satisfy customers needs. Elegant menu with just the correct amount of food offerings to satisfy even those that are not too familiar with French cuisine. Nice looking rustic bar area and beautify appointed art work and Parisian decor throughout the restaurant creating a very comfortable elegance. Ordered the French onion soup, mussels and quiche. Great descriptions of each item on the menu really romances your desire to try everything!
(4)
Brett H.
If you like French food, this place is a must. Very elegant decor. Good wine menu. This visit we shared some Pate' and Steak Tartare, both of which were very good. For dinner, I had the Bouillabaisse, which was excellent. My wife had the Pan Seared Duck Breast which was good but a little over cooked. She ordered medium rare and it was medium to medium well. For dessert, I highly recommend the Profiterolies. The Almond butter cake with macerated berries is also very good. Great place for a quiet romantic dinner.
(4)
Jessica C.
Get. The. Mussels. Everything is good here and you feel like you're in Paris. Seriously there is no wrong choice here. Allons-y!!
(5)
Kay K.
Tried Bistrot Zinc for lunch. Although the food was high quality and unique and the prices were in the 15-25 range, I thought it was not palatable enough for me to give a 5 star. I had the chicken. Also, the service was a bit slow. It was a slow day, but it took a few extra minutes for the waiter to serve us.
(4)
Lauren C.
Nothing is better than a french breakfast on a Sunday morning. That's why it was so great to find one that was so outstanding during our trip to Chicago. Bistro Zinc was open, easy, and had that french casual atmosphere that makes for a perfect Sunday morning. We each had a cappuccino, which was phenomenal, and shared the eggs benedict and quiche of the day. I can honestly say, that the quiche was one of the best I have ever had. It was a goat cheese mushroom quiche, that was light, cheesy and bright all at the same time. It came with a fresh green salad, and trust me....our plate was practically licked clean. Also, our service was absolutely phenomenal! Our waiter, Chris, was really personal and gave us some city tips for the rest of our stay. He even stayed up on our water intake, which we've learned that being from AZ, is much higher than the average Chicago-an, lol. Definitely looking forward to going back for another classic french brunch next time we are in Chicago!
Cute Decor. Oily Food. Service: we had a bald Italian accent waiter who was very rude (like he was too good for his job), extremely inattentive (had to ask other staff any time we needed anything), caught him in a lie, denied it, even with proof. Next time, if I go back, ask for the fat tall gay guy. He served us more than our actual waiter. What a sweet guy. I would've given this place less stars if he haddn't stepped in. Food: Good, but everything is very butter. Ask for thing to be "dry." Salmon was bland and tasted mostly like it was flash fried. Flank was delicious, but tons of oil as well. Mostly grey hairs (older people).
(3)
Merlin C.
This is seriously the best french restaurant in all of chicago. We had the french onion soup, mussles, and some other thing I forgot the name of but was amazing. Especailly nice if it's a warm day and they have the windows open.
(5)
Conrad S.
Expensive garbage. The wine is massively over priced and low quality. The drinks I had lacked alcohol. Every single drink I ordered was either sugar water or water. My whiskey sour came watered down with club soda in a tall glass. My sidecar came without cognac (brandy is what I think they used). My duck dish was undercooked and inadequately seasoned. Making it a boring $27 dish. The deserts were meh and not at all inspiring. Take your friends to Lou malnatis across the street. It's much better.
(1)
Christine L.
So I came for dinner, semi-early on a Friday night. The place wasn't very busy, but by the time we left it was fairly packed. While their menu isn't particularly extensive they do have very good options for dinner. This is my first foray into a restaurant that primarily identifies itself as "French" and I ordered the Poulet Grand Mère, which is basically roasted chicken over a stew of bacon, mushrooms, garlic, and pearl onions. It was a little different than I had anticipated. The jus was a little sweet, but I did like how they had nice soft whole cloves of garlic in the stew (I like garlic). Overall the food was decent, some of us enjoyed our meals better than others, but at their price point I would expect everything to be delicious. It got pretty dark inside while we were there, there were a number of couples there, it is definitely more of a date night place in the evenings. I do like the decor, very French-y. Service was good, while we had one waiter there were a number of people attending to our table of 5. Since others enjoyed their food much more than I did, I would definitely come back to try something else, but I probably wouldn't get my dish again...
(3)
ML ..
Service was rough, neither professional nor pleasant. My onion soup wasn't all that great. I've definitely had better. I can see why they weren't packed when all other restaurants nearby were filled to the max.
(2)
Anthony S.
Great place for fun French food with a pleasant atmosphere. Arugula with dates/bacon/Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette was a light and unique appetizer. Salmon over roasted fennel with smoked tomatoes was amazing. Fennel melted in your mouth and tomatoes were sweet but smoky. Dessert was fabulous mascarpone with berries and mint tea. Felt satiated but not stuffed. $80 for two not including tip.
(5)
Brittany G.
Ian was a fabulous server. The ambiance was smooth music with dim lighting. Perfect for intimate dining
(5)
Robert L.
Honestly the place is awesome. My gripe is that the food is expensive, but you do not get that much of it. I guess it's a French thing, but I didn't feel I got my money's worth.
Came here for my 26th birthday celebration - the restaurant was great about accommodating our larger group (no need for a food/beverage minimum, they didn't mind that some of our party was exceedingly un-punctual, allowed us to pay with multiple credit cards and cash - all while providing quick and friendly service from when we were seated to when we cheerily moved on to post dinner drinks). The food was delightful - I taste a few different appetizers, the mussels were cooked perfectly and in a delicious cream sauce (soaked up the broth with a lot of bread, yum!), the pate with little gherkins, and escargot (happy garlicky wonderfulness). I had the calf's liver - it was cooked perfectly and served over mashed potatoes and topped with fried onion rings. Definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area looking for great French food and exceptional service. Will be back!
(5)
Haley S.
Excellent french bistro. Well prepared steak frites, excellent red wine. My friend and I shared the banana and nutella crepe which was mind blowingly yummy. A good spot for a nice low key dinner on a Saturday night.
(4)
Danny D.
Took the gf here for her birthday. Booked it on opentable and me tioned it h there that it was her bday. Two hours before our reservation I had to push it back a couple of hours and so I called and the hostess made it happen which was great - especially since it was a Friday night. Upon arrival the host and hostess wished my gf a happy bday which was really nice and they saved a table for us in the very crowded restaurant right next to the window. Well done Zinc peeps! The Pork Milanese was amazing. The gf had the trout on spinach and she liked it as I did, but she liked my pork dish better. Chocolate cake was great and came with a birthday candle too - very classy. Great atmosphere and experience - we will be back soon.
This bistro was very patient with me when I tried to perform a magic trick, yanked the table cloth, and sent all of the glassware crashing to the floor. The milk here is good. I like the French fries.
(4)
Shan D.
Underrated spot for brunch. I love their mushroom and Brie crepe. The French toast is great if you want something on the sweeter side. You can also order lunch items if you're not in the breakfast mood. Sadly I haven't been here for dinner.
Went last Friday evening for a nice dinner with my girlfriend, we live right down the street and hadn't been there yet (even though we've lived in the area for about a year), ambiance was great, servers, bussers were great, food was ok. For the price, the Steak Frites was a total rip off I thought and I am not some rich yuppy. The steak had the consistency of hamburger meat and was really, really thin. My girlfriends meal was good however. She had a ham and cheese melt of some kind. I would return, however, not for the occasion of a nice dinner. If you want a great French dinner, try Mon Ami Gabi in Lincoln Park.
(3)
Michael C.
I really enjoyed the bistrot zinc, pretty fancy looking golden interior with the service staff dressed in all white. We came in 10:30 on a Sunday morning and we happened to be the only ones in the restaurant. Pretty unexpected awesomeness since brunching in Chicago can have nightmare waits. We were seated immediately and brought our menus. The selection is nothing spectacular but had some unique things- the croque monsieur and a lamb sandwich as breakfast dishes which my girlfriend and I both shared. The croque monsieur was a fluffy french toast hamd and cheese sandwich. Very savory and the cheese used was quite sharp- tasty dish. My lamb sandwich included thinly sliced lamb piled on and had a good charred favor. It was definitely different and I appreciated the smokiness although I don't think I would ever get it again. What was disappointing was that it came with chips instead of french fries! Luckily my girlfriend was nice enough to share hers with me (they came with croque monsieur). My friends at the table got a mushroom crepe, a quiche, and french toast. All seemed very pleased with the meal. Afterwards we split a banana nutella crepe which was divine! Stuffed with bananas and oozing with chocolate, we ended breakfast on a definite high note. Overall I would recommend this place for its great service and pretty solid food!
(4)
Nigel P.
My partner and I have a tradition: we come here for lunch on the last day of our annual visit to Chicago. Consequently, I have bittersweet memories of Bistrot Zinc as we always hate to leave. For our next visit I am determined to have dinner here on the day of our arrival. It only seems fitting to do that which one loves as soon as possible, and we love Bistrot Zinc. Come for the martinis (always perfect) and stay for the food (always fabulous)!
(5)
Monika S.
Service was great! Waiters were competent and were attentive to our needs and made sure that our cup are always filled. Furthermore, our meal always came out right on time. I enjoyed the company of the manager who was quite easy going and friendly. It made me feel relaxed. It is a lovely place. It is really a nice place, but I am giving it 4 stars because it falls short in the food department. I am not saying food is bad, I just don't think the flavor and taste blew me away. I think I had taste something better.
(4)
Melissah L.
Pretty good! Nothing too special, but it was a relaxed place for Sunday brunch. I got a croque monsieur with fries, which was good but not great. The food on the menu is pretty simple-- so if you have a taste for the usually eggs benedict, burger, scrambled eggs etc, you will find something you like here!
(3)
Haliun Z.
First of all stroller friendly if your little one is with you! My crew (6 couples) had a great brunch there. They organized everything for us. We made a reservation a week ago. Food was delicious. Everyone was happy.
(5)
Mike D.
Came for lunch before heading to the airport. This was recommended by our concierge at the Peninsula. The onion soup and escargots were delicious. They were served piping hot which is a real plus for me. It seems too many restaurants are serving their food lukewarm which is real turnoff. My companion had a burger with steak frites. The burger was cooked to perfection and the frites were nice and crispy. With the onion soup I had a half a sandwich which is a special. The place would have received five stars except the bread on the Croque Monsieur was massive. It was similar to Texas Toast and was very soggy. You can find some values on the wine list if you stick to the French ones. I had the Cotes du Rhone by Guigal. Although the place reminds me of bistros in France, the servers are attentive, friendly, and helpful. I would recommend the Bistrot Zinc.
Hubby and I went here for dinner one of the nights we were in Chicago. When we got it around 5:45pm there weren't many other people, but it filled up fast and seems to be a popular place. Excellent soups - I had the french onion and hubby had the Moroccan carrot (soup of the day), both were great. We shared the Steak Au Povire which was tasty and perfectly cooked. Service was average, nothing to write home about. And ambiance was nothing special.
(4)
Andy H.
We ordered the french onion soup and a croque monsier sandwich. The soup tasted like a french onion soup should which was good. The croque monsier was pretty average, not too much flavor but a little bit on the salty side. The pommes frites that came with it were good but nothing special.
(3)
Matthew W.
I've been going to Bistro Zinc for lunch and dinner for years, and not once has this restaurant been anything but stellar! This is a truly charming, deeply authentic bistro that adds a touch of class to the block just north of Viagra Triangle. The crowd is local, the space incredibly well appointed (The artwork on the walls is, actually, spectacular. Keep your eyes peeled for the rather daring painting by the windows in the front!). Most importantly at Bistro Zinc, though, is the food. Classic, simple, delicious and authentic. I love dropping in for lunch for the soup/salad combo. And there's nothing like spending a warm summer evening at Bistro Zinc, with the massive front windows open, allowing you to enjoy your meal as you look out onto the street. One of the city's true treasures. Enjoy!
(5)
David E.
I can't say enough about the excellent service, the atmosphere ripped straight from Paris and the marvelous food. The cocktails were quite good. I enjoyed their French onion soup, and the vol-au-vent. My date had the salmon and lentils. Both were perfect. Take the time to stop in.
(5)
James F.
A great place for dinner - fine French food without being too formal. Nice wines and yummy desserts too! Since I wasn't feeling too adventurous on the day we dined here, i chose the Vol-au-vent: yelp.com/biz_photos/bist… which was filled with a great chicken stew. it was a like a french chicken pot pie - great chicken and carrots served in a flaky puff pastry over mashed potatoes. it hit the spot (though it's a lot of carbs!). then i had dessert - split a Gateau au Chocolat with the wife. yum! Good service, friendly decor, good food! I'd definitely like to come back to Bistrot Zinc next time I'm in Chicago, and in general, i'm not even a fan of French cuisine.
(5)
Yvonne Y.
Quaint bistro decor, perfect for brunch with kids as they take reservations. Love the traditional small-tiled floor. We had brunch on Bastille day and they even had a woman dressed in 19th century costume serving cake! They served ham & cheese or nutella crepes for kids that my daughter claimed was better than her grandpa's! I had the spinach benedicte which I found the eggs a bit undercooked (clear, liquidy egg white). 1 of my 3 cups of coffee tasted a bit stale and not particularly hot. Friendly, non-pushy staff. Would return and try their lunch items when I'm back in the neighborhood.
(3)
Yvonne B.
I am hovering between two and three stars for this review. There were some aspects of my dining experience at Bistrot Zinc that were absolutely phenomenal (our server was really top notch) and other things that we frowned at (the mussels). A lot of the evening was just okay. Duck Confit - It was a really tasty combination of duck, greens, bacon, and raisins. Potato Soup with Haricots Verts - A nice blend of potatoes with an earthy garlic flavor. Chev Salad - Hit the spot: crumbled goat cheese with pickled (?) pears. Mussels - Low quality and over cooked. Fries - I could make better at home. These were plain as plain can be. Chocolate Mousse - M didn't comment about it, didn't finish it, but chose to take most of it home to sit in the fridge untouched. Almond Cake - surprisingly well balanced. I don't usually like cake that much but thought that this one had good almond flavor, nice texture, and wasn't too sweet. With drinks, our bill came to $120. The ambiance is like other bistros: benches along the walls, mirrors, and large artwork. I'd say this is a really good spot for folks who live close by who are looking for a solid (somewhat casual) dinner OR people who happen to be in the Gold Coast and are craving French food. Personally, I wouldn't seek it out for a special occasion or anything.
(2)
Steve A.
Food is very average. Steak frites is banal and chewy. Salmon crepe has 3 slivers of smoked salmon (and only $14!)--thanks so much! Everything is just very very lazy. And SORRY, no specials available for lunch! Why? Well, as the very kind bartender told me a couple of years ago, before this place became garbage, "basically just laziness." Yes, the lunch crew has all the ingredients and knowledge to prepare specials for lunch, but no you can't have any. The old bartender used to go against policy and get me specials for lunch anyway by basically telling the cooks to simply do their job, and yes, back then, the food was good. Now, it's terribly average. Moreover, it's impossible to order take out from this place! I called on Thursday, a bit after 5 pm, and I was told "We don't do takeout after 5pm." Odd, but okay. Perhaps fanciful elves wander into the kitchen just before dinner and steal all the to-go cartons. Yes, that must be it. Then I called on Sunday, at 4:38, and asked for take out. What was I told? "Sorry, we don't do take-out orders after fiv... 4:30." Ya, eff you too. Idiots. Done with this place. May your business follow where your food and staff have gone, down the toilet, forever and ever. P.S. Thanks for doing your little part in making the Gold Coast horrible.
(1)
Jenny H.
First off, BZ was delightfully quaint from the bar to the vintage tiled floors. Great place to take in a leisurely weekend. The fellow seated next to us was quite dapper, taking in a cup of coffee and a newspaper. But oh my cheesy-bistro stars... What possessed me to order a french onion soup with a croque monsieur? I love me some gruyere as much as the next person, but I should've known that I was setting myself up for a crazy cheesed-out lunch endeavor. Despite this regrettable ordering mishap, the french onion surpassed any other french onions I've ever had. My lunch buddy's lamb sandwich was pretty decent, but I'm not a big fan of lamb. Yes to the french onion, but next time if I'm ordering the soup again I'll probably go for something less cheese-inspired.
(3)
Alice H.
This is my version of comfort food. If I've had a long day... maybe I missed lunch, maybe I'm exhausted at the end of the week, I crave Bistro Zinc. Specifically, I crave their fries. To me, they have the perfect fries. Thin, salty, crispy. Perfect ratio of potato to skin. I love them! In addition to my ginormous plate of fries, I will usually also enjoy the rainbow trout with spinach and cherry tomatoes or the poulet grand-mere. Those two are my favorite. Both are wonderful dishes. I am a creature of habit so I tend to always get one of those two dishes. I rarely deviate, and when I do, I tend to regret doing so. The service is always wonderful. The staff is incredibly attentive, not pushy. The atmosphere of the restaurant is charming and sweet (very much in line with being a french bistro), but it is also very comfortable and relaxing. I never feel rushed, and that's important. The last thing I want when I've had a stressful week at work is to feel like I'm being rushed at dinner on a Friday night. On top of that, I've rarely ever had to wait for a table. There's usually always a small table or seat at the bar to munch at. For someone who rarely has the foresight to make a reservation, I know I can walk in here on a Friday or Saturday night, and not have a problem. Bistro Zinc = comfort, easy, tasty.
(4)
Margreth C.
I've been wanting to try this place since I moved to the Gold Coast in the summer. Decided to try it for restaurant week and glad that I did! I got the scallop/salmon appetizer, which was good. I prefer hot foods but it was still good. For my main entree, I got the steak and fries (my favorite)! It was a pretty big portion, which I was surprised. I had the steak medium well, and it was just right! For dessert, I had the coffee one and that just ended it with a bang! Overall, I was satisfied with the restaurant as a whole. The service was great! Anytime I had my water half empty, they would make their rounds, which I never had to ask for a refill! The server was very attentive and always made sure we were okay. I would definitely come back again!
(4)
Peter W.
We had a friend coming in from New York and decided to go for Sunday Brunch. A friend of mine recommended Bistrot Zinc and when I looked up the location, I was really thrown off. It is right next to the Viagra Triangle and we're not a fan of the scene around there. But the other reviews were good and the photos looked great, so we decided why not try it out. I'm so glad we went there. The staff was extremely friendly, the decor was actually little more like a Brasserie (a little more ornate) than a Bistro, the scene was not full of Trixies, and the food was delicious! I happy to know that I found a place in that area that I actually feel comfortable bringing out-of-towners to. We'll be back!
Where to start...One: The steak frites is amazing, I ate it in like a minute and a half. Two: I'm ashamed to say I ate two meals. One being the steak frites and the other being banana and Nutella crepes. (It was easter and I mean why not) Three: The staff was really friendly... actually it was probably because I like doubled the waiter's tip with all my food. Four: They ask if you would like dessert...at ten am...ok... Five: The food comes pretty quick and its clearly not prepackaged crud from like a multibillion dollar food company. Six: I'm going back, definitely
(5)
Charles S.
Had a first date here, and everything was fantastic. We tried escargot, had a great bottle of red wine, and our entrees were great. I would recommend this place to anyone. Watch out though - it gets pretty packed so make a reservation.
(5)
N Q.
Actually they deserve 3 1/2 stars, but Yelp doesn't do half stars. I am making it 3 then, rather than rounding up to 4, since the service was painfully slow. The food was decent. I had the duck, which was a special, and asked for it medium rare. It came out too rare, almost rubbery, but they fixed it when I asked, which was good. I also had the beet salad which was alright, not bad but nothing to write home mom about. Service knocks off a 1/2 star, since it was so slow, although my server was perfectly friendly and polite, there were whole stretches of time I was essentially ignored. It's just good to check up on someone occasionally, you know? Also, I wouldn't normally mind paying these prices for better food (the duck was about $25), but unfortunately the food quality and taste doesn't quite match the price tag. I may come again, however, as the atmosphere was quiet yet comfortable, pretty decent, conversation-friendly noise level, and I like that. Perhaps my experience will be better next time. By the way, I also ordered this chocolate mousse dessert which was nice. Not spectacular, but it hit the spot! They gave me raspberries with it too, upon request. Chocolate and raspberries = A nice way to end the meal :)
(3)
Larry S.
Third visit and my opinion has not changed. This place is the real deal. Had superb French Onion Soup and a perfectly prepared soft shelled crab over a corn and pepper salsa. Cant go wrong!
(5)
Nelson M.
Restaurant Review French Bistro in the Gold Coast! I came here for my three year wedding anniversary for lunch with my wife and son. I was not disappointed. You would think having a 8 month old with you would be a problem in a french bistro, but no. The staff was super friendly and placed us at a table where we could easily fit the stroller. The menu prices for this area were quite good. We started off with the house pate, a bit gamey for my taste but ample portions for the price you pay. I wish they would give you more bread with the pate. I ended up with a lighter meal by selecting the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli) As other's commented the onion was way too much and had to be removed from the sandwich, but otw the lamb was cooked well and the seasoning went well with the protein. I can't say it was the best sandwich I ever had, but I will be back to try the other french bistro items. 4 stars as being a promising restaurant that I will have to come back and try more items. Pro- friendly service, good price, great ambiance Con- more bread with the pate please! Hidden deal- None
(4)
Joe S.
Overall, I'd probably say 2.5 stars. Our server was a bit in your face. Pointed at the specials, grunted..he was inattentive at best, forgot wine order, kinda aloof. The food was average. The highlight was probably the french onion soup. I had the chicken with fingerling potatoes and my wife had the parmesan pepper crusted steak. Both were mediocre. I noticed someone else mentioned the wine..I have no issue paying $12-$16 for a glass of wine provided its quality. The french pinot noir was decent enough, but the rest was average.
(2)
Ruma T.
Just went there last night with friends for the first time and it was good. I think its more like a 3.5 and I wish the star system had 10 stars instead of 5 because that would make it much easier to rate. Anyway, besides the point. We had wine..of course. They had a variety of wines by the glass and we tried quite a few and they were delicious. We got the arugula salad and it was alright. The entrees that impressed were the salmon and skate. I'd definitely recommend it and I'm not even typically a fan of salmon. The caramelized oniony topping on it was perfect although I wish it was warm instead of cold. Worth a visit. Good atmosphere, great for a date, and not too crowded or difficult to park.
Very good food. Clean, crisp, and tasty. Ambiance is more traditional. Try the French soup and walleye. Service is top notch.
(5)
Bri A.
Chez Moi is my favorite French restaurant in the city, but this is now my second! I came here for brunch with my family and everyone, even my 4 year old niece, loved their food. The menu has standard, simple French fare, but it's GOOD. I'm not a big onion fan so I didn't try the French onion soup, but everyone raved about it. Escargot was buttery, garlicy and delicious. I had a sandwich with turkey, fig jam, brie and watercress which was tasty, but I regret not getting a crepe! The truffle egg salad is so good, too. I loved the ambiance and our waiter was so nice! He made sure to bring my niece's sandwich ASAP when she proclaimed, "I'm STARVING!" lol. Brunch was great and I'd like to come back for dinner.
(5)
Charlie B.
I don't give out 5 stars lightly; this place deserves them. We (just) had brunch/lunch, ~2PM Saturday. My husband had the best french toast of his life (this is saying something). Practically a souffle it was so light and custardy. I had the onion soup and the tuna salad, both terrific. The soup: I never order french onion soup; it usually gives me a headache it's so oniony. Glad I did today - this was sweet and rich, the onions totally caramelized. And LOADED with melted gruyere (I omitted the bread as I don't eat wheat). Almost a fondue. Yummy and a surprisingly rich, filling first course. Then Salade de Thon: barely seared slices of delicate tuna over a little fennel salad with wedges of roasted artichokes, with an amazing coulis of green onion on the side. And a nice kalamata olive tapenade on toast. Just delightful, and original too. The service was prompt, attentive, friendly. All in all this was as good a lunch as you can get. $70 for 2 with wine and generous tip. There were lots of other good-sounding things on the menu so we'll prob go back while we're here.
(5)
Gigi G.
The French onion soup is Delish! Great Ambiance. Amazing staff.
(5)
Michael G.
My only other French Bistro experience was Le Bouchon in Bucktown/Wicker, and of the two, this is the favorite by a longshot. No knowledge of French food whatsoever did not create any setbacks here, from the conscientious waiter who offered middle of the road flavors in both red and white wines (just ask him, I can't remember their names, Bon Iver looking fellow, great dude) to their incredible French Onion appetizer, we'll get to entree's in a bit. Just want to stop and say I ate Pate here bc of that line in Ace Ventura...you know the one...and I now think as a whole it's gross. Can't fault Bistrot for that, but it's something to know. My lovely date had a chicken dish (that was flavored with bacon or ham! That's cheating! And it's genius!), with fresh garlic cloves, small onions, and potatoes : mind blowing. I'd come back for that alone. Had the Steak and Frite everyone has talked about here, and it is more than worth your time. I ordered medium, when I should've went Medium Rare though. I believe this is a sign they take their meat seriously. Best Creme Brulee I've had, a portion worth the price, ambiance at every turn : this place is a winner. Slapping the As Good As It Gets tag doesn't seem fair since I have almost no prior knowledge of French cuisine, but please please come here and give these ppl your business! Their beards are almost as powerful as their food.
(4)
Emma K.
Nom nom nom.... I came here last night for girl's dinner with four of my friends. We had a reservation, but the restaurant was probably 2/3 empty. My friend who did make the reservation said that they didn't require the entire party to be there before seated - major PLUS (especially since I'm always the late one)! Our food came our quickly and was so yummy. I got the Crepe a La Ratatouille which has goat cheese and vegetables. It was the perfect size and filling without being too heavy. I do feel like this is super picky ... but all of the goat cheese on mine was on one side. I'm sure that's just how you make a crepe (I will be able to tell you after my crepe making class Sunday), but it just made it difficult to get that perfect bite. All of my friends enjoyed their meals too - the Crepe Au Polet, Croque Minsieur, and Risotto. (Excuse my French if I misspelled anything.) We shared a bottle of wine and our dinners were only $22/person. The atmosphere was nice and upscale without being pretentious. The service was great too. Our server was there explaining the menu and refilling our wine glasses when needed, but very unobtrusive and quiet. Splitting the bill was a piece of cake. I had a hard time deciding between the Crepe and the Vol-au-vent .... and I definitely want to come back to try the latter soon!
(4)
Jerry L.
Good bistro comfort food on a chilly Chicago afternoon...roast chicken with a side of fries hit the spot!
(3)
Melanie A.
This used to be my go-to French bistro, but it's really gone downhill in the past few years. When we sat at our table we noticed a gross chunk of something under one of the chairs, looked like something a dog threw up, and trying to flag someone down was impossible, so we had to grab a napkin from the bar and clean it up ourselves. The food is nothing spectacular, the chocolate pot de creme by no means lives up to it's name or what it's supposed to be. Highly disappointed and won't be back.
(2)
Monica L.
Went to Bistro Zinc for a mother daughter night, my mother and I have been to many french bistro and Bistro Zinc stood far above the others. Reminding us of our trip to Paris, the cuisine and atmosphere were spot on. We loved our from scratch cocktails and the charming company of our waiter. I wish I could recall his name, he was the best waiter I have EVER had, that man deserves a raise! I had the stew du jour and it was a fantastic traditional dish. The chocolat mousse was to die for. Highly reccomend Bistro Zinc and hope to be returning again soon.
(5)
Robert P.
We have been to Bistrot Zinc many times. It has provided a touch of Paris for us when we are not in Paris. We always liked the laid back atmosphere and good food. Maybe things were not so good because it was valentines day but overall we were disappointed. The bar was great as usual and the bartender was fantastic. Our table experience was something else. Jose, our server, was not friendly or attentive. We felt very rushed. The food appeared within ten minutes and looked as though it was pre-prepared and sitting under a heat lamp. The dessert, pot au creme, was definitely prepared well in advance with a skim surface on top indicating it's age. We know they are better than this.
(2)
Paul T.
Superb, simply superb. I've been dining there for years, and Bistrot Zinc is remarkably consistent. Friendly, knowledgeable waiters, many of whom having been there for years. Highly recommended.
(5)
Ryan W.
Now we will start with the positives: super cute decor and solid menu. The rating comes from the service aspect of my experience. We sat there at our table for a solid 10 minutes waiting to be greeted. The place didn't look particularly busy but who knows what the servers actual situation was, but some acknowledgement of that is always nice because then I'm not assuming the worst. He was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and took our order right away. Never saw him again until we almost finished our meals. Typically if my meal comes out correctly or I don't need anything I don't really mind but my burger was cooked medium well instead of medium rare and I would've loved some Dijon. I don't blame the server for burger being overcooked, I do fault him for not checking on our meals to make sure they were correct. Overall it was a nice place and I live right there so I'll give it another shot and hopefully the service aspect was a fluke.
(3)
Daria D.
I went there for a date, the atmosphere was amazing and the service was impeccable. I had the escargot and calfs liver. I have never had both but this was one of the best meals I've had in a long time. I definitely will recommend this place to everyone I know.
(5)
Tim T.
Absolute favorite French restaurant in Chicago. Every time we go, it gets better. The wait staff is very knowledgeable about the menu, the service is excellent, and the food is divine. It's just delicious French comfort food and so authentic. My highest compliments.
(5)
Carol K.
Consistently good food, excellent service and lovely ambiance. I haven't been here is awhile and the whole time I was here I was wondering why I had stayed away for so long? I guess just too many great restaurants in Chicago and too little time. Well no problem as I was warmly welcomed and shown to a table with a group of friends. I was late so they were already a few martinis ahead of me but no problem- our server quickly rectified that situation! The food here is always good so we tried a few of the special appetizers to share (watermelon with feta, snails (delicious!), mussel (always my fav) and the pate (some of the best in the city!) For my entree I had the steak and frites which was perfectly cooked and most of the table had the fish special of the day which was the barramundi served over green beans. Simple food but always good. Our server, Bryan, was great! He even recognized me from a place he used to work (how do they do that?) and was very attentive throughout our meal. I loved his laugh as he is one of those rare servers who really seems to like his job so it seems like you are just sitting down at a table in his home. We all commented on how great he was which was no small feat given I was with a group from New York who seem to always start with what the problems are! Tres Bon in every way- Bistro Zinc is a great neighborhood place that takes wonderful care of it's guests!
(4)
Stephanie C.
Check out the strange little custom of boiled eggs at the bar! I am a solo traveler and paid two visits during a weekend trip to Chicago. Francophiles should easily feel at home here, wayward travelers, too. Genial staff; crisp, clean interiors; and hot, fresh, satisfying food, much of it standard French bistro food but with a bit of dash. Best of all: French wines by the glass. Try the mussels and pate selections. Bon appetit!
(5)
Rebecca R.
I like this place but I'm not blown away either. It's a little overpriced but it's still has a nice ambiance. I went the other night with a friend and we ordered the scallops as an appetizer. The appetizer cost $13 and we got TWO scallops. So basically each scallop was $7.50. I figured we'd get more than two for that price but we didn't... I ordered the pork milanese which was very good. It came with a small tomato heirloom salad but overall it was one big piece of pounded meat. Good food, a little overpriced, romantic ambiance.
(3)
Chris T.
Stopped by for brunch and left satisfied. I'm not usually a fan of french cuisine (sacre bleu!) but the food, ambience and service were all magnifique. Food: I had the Lamb Sandwich, and the meat was tender and delicious. I ended up taking out the onion from the sandwich, which made it much better in my opinion; the onion was particularly strong. The quiche of the day was also quite good. The day we were there it was bacon and leek quiche. It fills you up! One of the best parts is that when you checkin through four square you get a free cocktail! So don't forget to.
(4)
lisa N.
The Denny's of French restaurants. Mild and inoffensive flavors, my anchovy salad was a sea of whitish romaine ribs with 3 small anchovies and two dead cold premade toast pieces encrusted with congealed cheese, also cold. The French woman next to is finished neither her pate or crenels brule and declined to take it home. Good for people who are afraid of non us food.
(2)
Samantha H.
I love the classic French bistro flare of this place. The atmosphere is cozy but still busy and bustling. The wine list is quite approachable as well. You have to ask for butter with the bread but the bread is yummy. Our server was Ian and he was just excellent as well. One criticism is that the menu does not say what the dishes come with. They are actually huge portions. I did not realize mine would come with a large portion of mashed potatoes as well as the main so that could be described a little better. But overall the experience was great and I'll definitely be back. We started with some venison terrine and escargot. I feel that for escargot it really matters about the texture and if you get some sea flavor from the snail as anything in a bunch of garlic and butter will be awesome. So I usually am underwhelmed. These were actually really good. Not quite Maudes, but my second favorite I've had. They had a perfect crunchy crust on the top and the snail flavor actually came through. The venison was just okay. There were very large pieces of pistachio in there that made it a bit difficult to eat. I also am a huge fan of venison and I didn't get that much true flavor. The cherry stuff they served with it was awesome though. I got the skate wing, which was prepared phenomenally. Skate is so easy to mess up and many times when you order it, it comes mushy and lacks the delicacy that makes it so succulent. This was the perfect balance of tender meat with the light, crispy skin. It came with mashed potatoes that were dynamite as well. My husband got the special stew, which was a chicken and tomato stew that he said was awesome. I was so stuffed I couldn't try it. Yet I tied the profiterole, which was very tasty, despite me not being a dessert person. So nothing was bad foodwise but some things were stand outs. I look forward to trying some other things next time and being aware of portion sizes for my next visit.
(4)
Sujin Y.
Went for Valentine's day. Good thing we made reservations because it was very full. Escargot (7/10): I've had better escargot in other French restaurants. Cooked well but overloaded with garlic. Lyonnaise salad (7/10): Missing a acidic element. Need more citrus. Greens were too bitter. Puff pastry with chicken stew (9.5/10): Dish of the night! Too much puff pastry and mashed potatoes overwhelmed the stew. Almost perfect! Braised beef short ribs (6/10): Sauce was too salty and the short ribs weren't fall apart yet. Needed more cooking time. Chocolate mousse (7/10): A bit too over whipped. It affected the texture. Also the chocolate had a very bitter and sour aftertaste. Service (7/10): Our waiter was slow to come back to our table. Just an inconvenience when we wanted to order and such.
(4)
Margo F.
Lovely dinner! Fab service. Poulet grand mere is worth the trip--chicken in wine sauce perfectly seasoned. Vol au vent equally flavorful. Wolf fish mmmm. Great bread--wonderful endive salad. Plain old burger excellent. Neat menu variety.
(5)
Christopher S.
This was my second time at this place. I love the service and the atmosphere. The food is great and it's perfect for a special occasion. I wound recommend this place.
Recently some new friends of ours took us to this place. We had just changed into some scrubby clothes and were kind of afraid when they said it was a french bistro type place. Yes it was on the upscale side, white table clothes (covered in paper), servers dressed up, dark rooms, candle lit tables but they were a-ok with us in shorts (and I was in a hoodie). They still treated us with respect as if we showed up in tails and a top hat. The food was fantastic too. I had the ratatouille which was crepe style and tasted fantastic. My wife had the Croque Monsieur which was awesome (I'd hate to see the fat content on this sandwich though, with all the cheesy goodness and butter!). Our friends say they come about once every other month and they have yet to have anything bad there. Fantastic place.
Average food but a homey restaurant in a chill neighborhood. While some of my friends like Gold Coast a lot, I am more of an Old Town girl, especially my favorite restaurant Kamehachi and my favorite floral store A New Leaf are there. Nonetheless, Gold Coast is a great neighborhood. If you have to wait for a friend prior to lunch or dinner, you can stop by Barnes and Nobles or Anthropologist right across the street. Although the salad was average, the apple pie had a crispy edge that went well with the vanilla ice cream. The waiters were also very attentive. I would recommend you stopping by this little place if you are in the neighborhood. Food: 3 Service: 3 Decor: 4
(3)
FatmanStan F.
Dare I say incredible? I lived on the upper west side of NYC for four years next to the most charming unassuming French bistro there called Cafe Du Soleil. Really grew to be love about French cuisine. I just moved back to Chicago a week ago, didn't think I would find something incredible so soon. I had the scallop, they were ok, I've had better. The ox tail risotto was out of this universe. really cozy decor and moderately warm staff. Will be back.
(4)
Mark H.
Mushroom Chicken Crepe for lunch. Hmmm? Was tempted by the bartender who persuaded me with a generous Vodka on the rocks drink. I figured....It was Friday afternoon. The warm summer breeze. The window doors were wide open, people were happy passing by. Y not try chicken w/ pancake?! Well, the presentation was just that. But after my initial awkwardly timid bite... I was hooked. The mushy yet slosh y cream with the soft crepe and chicken combination prepared by the chef made my taste buds crave more and more until I inhaled it while still leaving on the table a half glass of my liquid fuel?!!! Yup. Y not 5 stars than. It was a business date. Company matters. Sorry Bistrot Zinc otherwise it would be 5.
(4)
Kathleen M.
Stopped in for our final meal while in Chicago and it was just lovely. We got there pretty early for brunch, right when they opened, and it was pretty quiet. The windows along the street were open, they had fresh flowers on the tables, and I almost felt like I was back in France. While my sister waxed poetic about the french toast, I couldn't deny the Croque Monsieur. I've had a hard time finding a decent version of the sandwich in Atlanta so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to get my hands on a good one. I don't regret my decision in the least. The sandwich was the right amount of creamy and crunchy, fatty without being greasy, and as decadent and flavorful as I could hope. The skinny fries were equally addictive. Our server couldn't have been nicer and everyone in my crew seemed delighted with their dishes. Chicago has so many delicious eateries it will be hard to pick what to hit up on my next visit, but Bistrot Zinc will likely be on my short list.
(5)
Mrs. F.
Because they have a limited and standard French menu, this restaurant has been able to concentrate on perfecting their recipes. I've always enjoyed the Poulet Grand Mere, the trout, and the salmon. I tried the steak frites as well, but found it too salty, which is why I took it down a star. The wine list is very god, but desserts are a bit pricey, so opt in favor of something more traditional than profiteroles or chocolate mousse. Delicious and reasonable with excellent service. A footnote: expensive valet parking ($14 plus tip) comes along with being in the Rush Street area.
(3)
Kirsten H.
First time trying a freshwater fish - the walleye. It was amazing!!
(5)
Lia V.
Cute! Total french bistro feel - went on a Saturday afternoon with my cousin. It's in a great location to go shopping afterwards. Had a glass of champagne and half a turkey sandwich with french onion soup and homemade chips. The soup had way too much cheese in it, but really... is that so bad? It tasted really good. The turkey sandwich was good too - it had some fig jam on it or something. Cheap lunch. Staff wasn't the best or anything. I don't think our server actually ever introduced himself - maybe he was just having an off day. I'd recommend going if you're in the area.
(3)
Terry F.
A good place to stop by for a quick cocktail and a chat. I didn't try the menu, but the diners there all looked satisfied. The bartender wasn't very attentative, but the drink was poured properly.
(3)
Megan F.
My first time here was for Sunday brunch. Everyone I was with left saying what a lovely French bistro Bistro Zinc was and it really is. Since then, I have been back several times and have loved it every time. The Vegetable Chickpea and Tomato Stew is a favorite of mine as well as the Mussels. A friendly waitstaff is extremely attentive. The atmosphere is nice - just what you think of for a traditional French bistro - red and yellow color motif. Tables are packed together but it lends to the cozy, warm inviting atmosphere. I highly recommend checking this place out!
(5)
Peter D.
Came in late and got a great meal fast. I sat at the bar and I got right to business and it was one of the best if brief times. The bartender was friendly and we chatted for a good while and they all gave me good points of places to try. I got served bread with yummy butter to start and it was very good. I ordered the Steak Frites and it arrived fast which was great since I was starved. I chowed hard and fast and I left a happy camper. I can tell you that this place is on my list to return to again and again. Its right in the middle of a lot of bars and restaurants and there is also great people watching. You can get a great dinner here and then go enjoy an evening of people watching the cougars and the creepy old farts on the prowl. Awesome! I recommend you eat here. Please, if alone sit at the bar. Its the best!
(4)
Lori S.
Love BZ. It's our neighborhood favorite. Friendly staff - excellent food - and they don't rush you along. We will be back many many times.
(5)
Chris G.
Few regrets... I have few in life -- but admittedly, passing Bistro Zinc up as much as I have over the years until today's lunch certainly counts as one. We love to lunch as early as possible in order to beat the crowds and arrived a few minutes before the scheduled 11:30am opening. Our server was cheery, generous and patient as we had a hard time picking from many of the tantalizing apps and entrees. We settled on escargot and french onion soup to start and my friend chose the salmon gruyère quiche and me, the pan fried trout over a bed of cooked spinach capers and cherry tomatoes as the entree. We rocked the chunky escargot and sopped up all its buttery juices and soup with fresh bread. The quiche was mouthgasmic with it's buttery middles and heads-of-state worthy crust. The pan fried trout tasted just-caught and perfect over a steamed spinach bed with capers and tomatoes. It beamed, white, yet slightly buttery and crispy. We had tears in our eyes and were in need of this culinary fix on a dark, bleak, icy Chicago Monday morning. Just as we approached Bistro Zinc, the sun came out and all was well in our world. We debated over dessert and after mulling a few different options chose chocolate mousse balls and also their almond butter cake with macerated berries. Now I don't know what the hell macerated really means exactly but these berries were very rich tasting... almost marinated in a rich watermelon juice as my friend noted, wonderfully. The cake was reminiscent of my elders cooking old-fashioned tea cakes and was most wonderful and complex.--hot out of the oven. It was a struggle to keep my shoes on and remain seated in my chair in a civil fashion. I was definitely having a moment! The exact blend is a "state secret" but they brought to the table a fresh pot of Intelligensia decaf. Panamanian and Guatemalan beans are in there and it was the best cup(s) of coffee I've had. If that wasn't the kicker, we left with a complimentary $25 gift certificate for dinner. NEW. BIG. FANS. Waistlines be damned. :)
(4)
Cliff F.
We stopped in on a Monday around 8pm strictly for a night cap and a little dessert to finish our evening. We were greeted promptly with a smile. I informed the maitre d that this was a simple night cap and dessert stop to curb our sweet tooth. He seated us at a two top in the front of the restaurant to enjoy the street views and take in the cool Chicago summer evening. Our server came over very promptly gave us a dessert and cocktail menu explained the dessert specials the chef had prepared for the day. We opted to share a plate of the profiterole's and two glasses of Bordeaux. The dessert was wonderful and paired with the very average house Bordeaux it was even better. The decor, the ambiance, and the quaint little bistro table overlooking the bustling street made this a delightful ending to a wonderful evening. I will add that a house made vanilla bean Ice cream was served with the profiterole's, which was very good! However I decided to get an order to go with house made creme fraiche and it was so much better...
(4)
Michelle P.
Great escargot, cocktails, and risotto. Quaint but vibrant atmosphere. Definitely a great date spot or for a night out with the girls.
(4)
Elise P.
This place is so cute. I came in for brunch and the food was delicious. My friend and I split the burger and the french toast. I loved the brunch food, and the place wasn't crowded at all. Even on a Sunday morning. I want to come back for dinner. The French onion soup looked amazing. I'm bummed I didn't try it. But I will definitely be back!
(5)
Rachel S.
Went here over the weekend with my boyfriend and his dad. Selected the place based off Yelp reviews and was not disappointed. To start, we had the mussels which were in a tasty cream sauce that was great to dip bread into. For my main, I had the L'onglet Steak, which was cooked perfectly and very tasty. It came with green beans that were crunchy, adding some freshness to the plate, and cauliflower gratin that was cheesy and delicious. Boyfriend had the grandmother's chicken, which was really good, and his dad was also pleased with the meal he ordered. The wine we selected with the help of the knowledgeable wait staff went great with the food, and was reasonably priced. For dessert, we had the profiteroles a la glace. the chocolate sauce was the best part of the dessert, for sure! The atmosphere is cozy, and would be perfect for a date, outing with close friends or family. Would highly recommend!
(5)
Benjamin H.
Great people watching spot in Gold Coast. The chips at the bar are great, the bread and butter are yummy (and never ending), the cocktails are also very solid and the wine is reasonably priced. Excellent service with very good food and a low-key (but mature) vibe.
(4)
Lindsey O.
How is this place 4/5 stars? I love french food, but maybe I just ordered the wrong thing at Bistrot Zinc. My group sat at the bar and ate the heavily oil drenched, salt-less chips and hard boiled eggs, and I decided to order something before drinking more. I ordered a vegetable crepe with goat cheese. Absolutely nothing to rave about. The veggie crepe tasted exactly like that - the veggies were covered in cooking oil, no garlic or additional flavors (the menu says they add basil, but I couldn't taste it), and a little dollop of goat cheese. Overall, it was unmemorable. The bar tender however was a sweetheart, and I would go back to buy more drinks from her prior to heading out.
(2)
Clara C.
My dining companion and I came in here off of the Yelp reviews and were not disappointed. Ambience: Fancy ish, cute little French restaurant. Service: Very professional and quick. Never once had to look around for the server. Food: -Chicken & mushroom Crepe- was perfect, not too creamy and the perfect fluffiness -Veggie Tajine w/ couscous- I loved this dish. The couscous was a good texture and the veggies that came with it accompanied the couscous perfectly. -Chocolate mousse dessert- Heaven on a dish. The mousse was a perfect frothy fluffy texture. Exactly what I imagine clouds in heaven should taste like. The chocolate was very rich, but at the same time not heavy.
(5)
Jennie C.
Came here on a Sunday night with a big group of people. Our waiter was very attentive and patiently awaited our indecisiveness and numerous questions. We started with octupus salad and mussels. The salad was nice and refreshing, but the mussels was what blew me away: I'd never seen mussels so plump! On top of that they were also cooked to perfection, bathed in a buttery broth that we couldn't stop dunking bread in. For entrees we had the skate, pork Milanese, trout, beef stew and steak & frites. All of which were perfectly cooked, though one could argue the food is not as aggressively seasoned as most restaurants. It was the perfect amount of seasoning for me, but I have a lighter palate, so some people may find it on the bland side. Bistrot Zinc's downfall was in dessert. Everyone at the table ordered creme brulee, except me, who went with the profiteroles. The brulee was standard fare, the profiteroles were tough, dense, and doused with too much chocolate sauce. I'd stick with their food and go elsewhere for dessert, perhaps a gelato by the fountain?
(3)
Lola K P.
Delightful old-school French bistro, very clean and bright-feeling, comfortable. I've come by for brunch with a few girlfriends, and a Bastille day dinner with a group of ten, and both were very lovely. Service was prompt and friendly. The food was quite good. Both times were great, and I would definitely return.
(4)
Lori M.
Delightful Our first visit here on Easter. Charming decor and a warm day allowed for open air dining, bringing the feel of Paris even closer. Eggs benedict with smoked salmon quite extraordinary and prepared to perfection. Service was outstanding! We look forward to our next visit!
(5)
Connie Y.
Food was really good! I was pleasantly surprised given that my experiences at any French restaurant is typically met with a bit of disappointment. Went there with some friends for brunch and got the french onion soup and lamb sandwich with grilled onion, watercress, and rosemary aioli which were both delicious. It was quite filling as well. The ambiance was nice for a Saturday morning. There were not a whole lot of people which is a nice change from most other brunch places where it can be loud and difficult to hear people at your own table due to all the noise. The overall staff was quite nice. Our server was okay. To be honest, not as great as I would have expected from such an establishment.
(4)
Anya C.
Good French toast, good bread, good escargots
(4)
Helen Y.
my bf and I went here on a dinner, we didn't put down reservations ahead and it was very easy for us to be seated. After we sat down, a waiter soon came over and offered us the menu, however, he didn't offer to explain the menu or had the courtesy to ask us if we had been here and needed any recommendation. after we ordered, they brought us a small plate of bread without any butter or olive oil, how are you suppose to eat that? my bf needed to go and find a waiter and asked them to bring us olive oil. the food was brought to us very quickly, we ordered an fried eggplant appetizer, steamed mussels and an entree of the liver. the food was good, not amazing though. overall, the food is just OK and the service really sucks.
(3)
Evelyn M.
My husband and I had a delightful birthday dinner here. The atmosphere was lovely, it was very French bistro in feel, with an old-fashioned touch, beautiful wood and brass trim, lots of mirrors, walls painted a gently warm cream color, and vintage posters and prints in frames. Food was really delicious, from the French Onion Soup to the trout to the dessert. loved everything. Service was warm and attentive
(5)
Megan G.
Went here for Valentine's Day dinner last night. We primarily had the specials, which were all good, but not as French as I would have assumed because we were at a mostly french restaurant. I'd love to go back for the crepes or the mussels (or maybe the croque monsieur)! The wine list is pretty good, and I'm always a sucker for the bread that always seems to keep coming. Plus the waiter only laughed at me a little bit when I asked for a cup of coffee once he came and greeted us (I'm on nights right now, hence the post-Valentine's Day late night post).
(4)
Joyce H.
Came here New Years Day for brunch. It's a very cute, bright French cafe that seems to attract a lot of people from the neighborhood. I saw waiters / bartenders behind the counter conversing with people about the daily news. There seemed to be an overall friendly atmosphere. I shared the escargot dipped in butter sauce with friends -- very rich and fresh! I enjoyed that very much. Having just become a pescetarian, I had their roasted vegetable puree soup and the ratatouille crepe. The soup was the right amount of creaminess, and the puree was very tasty. The combination of the soup + crepe turned out to be on the salty side though. That's really my only issue. I tasted the French onion soup -- great flavor and the cheese was special, but let's just say they were very generous with the amount that they topped on the soup.
(3)
Kiki W.
The good: The service is great and the atmosphere is charming. The mediocre: Everything was almost right. The food was well-cooked, but under-seasoned and uninspired. They rely too much on butter and cream for flavor, rather than actually seasoning the food properly. Having said that, a little salt here and a little lemon there greatly improved the dishes. But for the price, I rather expect my food to emerge without needing additional help. If you're looking for a place to take your non-foodie Aunt & Uncle from Wisconsin or Iowa after a long day shopping on Michigan Avenue, Bistrot Zinc works fine. If you're looking for a stand-out bistrot meal, take a pass.
(3)
Dennis B.
Went here 1/11/13 This was a nice little place. Even though it was french, I wasn't to excited over the menu. For starters I had the escargot which was decent but needed more garlic. Then the anchovy salad to me was a bit bland. It had a anchovy vinaigrette for dressing. I wouldn't recommend anyone getting this unless you're really into anchovies. For the entree I got the roasted chicken which I wasn't that impressed with, especially for the price. All in all the decor was nice, staff was friendly, and the was food mediocre. I went on a Friday night around 6pm and the place was pretty empty. I paid about $40, no drinks. There's a lot of other places in Chicago where I could've gotten the same thing for less than $20, but I guess part of that price is location. Nice experience, but I won't be going back. It is a great place for people watching if you sit by the windows.
(3)
James H.
Tasty and hearty selection of dishes. Service was great as well. It boasts a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere without being too snooty (parisian). I will always recommend the escargot, regardless of what else you order. Be kind. Take your time. Tip your waiter. Enjoy.
(4)
Susie L.
Food is terrific. The soup de jour always pleases. The quiche lorraine was perfect. The smoked salmon benedict was the perfect portion (not too huge, and just elegant). The servers are very friendly, quick, and knowledgable. When I casually asked about the Restaurant Week menu... they actually printed one on the spot and bound it in a clear menu holder for me to read it. This place is very cozy, classy, romantic, and feels like you're in France for little bit. Excellent!
(5)
Jinx T.
Très Magnifique A friend raved about the liver and onions dish here - and raved so much and so frequently - I was prompted to stop in and give it a try. What a magnificent dish! And to do it justice - here's the actual description: Foie de Veau - Sauted calf's liver, smoked bacon, fried onions, crème fraîche mashed potatoes, port sauce. I paired this dish with a Gin Martini - done beautifully - with perfectly noticeable vermouth - served with two beautifully skewered plump green olives. In addition, the room and the service was a delight! Highly Recommended!
(5)
Evan S.
Welcome to 2012, my Yelp buddies. This year will be a wonderful one in many ways. I plan to do a great job of staying on top of my reviews this year, and also have some things in store. Stay tuned for a new list that I'll be working on. Now, on to Bistrot Zinc. This quaint little French spot wasn't a premeditated dinner, an elaborate date, or a scheme to impress any old girl. It was simply a random choice for a late dinner after a night out at First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art. We needed food at a good price and BZ was highly rated. So we sat down around 9:30/10 to a relatively empty place with friendly service and class. I ordered a Chardonnay, and Tarra T. kept to the water (she was already feeling a good buzz). The meals: she had the burger, which was very flavorful and on a Hawaiian bun (if I recall correctly). The main drawback: it was heavy on the bleu cheese, which was pretty overpowering. I had the beef short ribs (I mother effin LOVE a short rib!). They were flanked with mashed potatoes and carrots, rightly sized, not too filling but left me very satisfied. We shared the mushroom soup for starters, which was full and flavorful. We were in and out with ease, enjoyed great meals, and found a nice little random walk-in spot in the Viagra Triangle.
(3)
Will G.
I don't eat french cuisine often, but I really enjoyed my meal here. We had mussels to start, which came in a very tasty broth. I had the pork and apple stew, which, while it was a little on the heavy side, had good flavor. The other members of the party had the tagine and the pork chop w/ rhubarb; both of which were good, though I preferred the latter.The service was very friendly, unpretentious, patient, and informed, and the waiter picked a nice wine to pair with my dinner. The atmosphere was nice, and intimate, not too crowded and you could have an actual conversation. I would definitely go back..
Great French food in a relaxed setting. We shared the mushroom and chicken crepe to start as it was listed under small plates. It was amazing, but HUGE. We took 1/2 of it to-go. Next courses were the goat cheese salad and the salmon with lentils (special). Both were great. Creme brulee for dessert. Our server was incredibly helpful, especially with wine selections.
(4)
Paridhi N.
On a fine Sunday morning, husband and I went for brunch .. And needless to say, the food was fresh and delicious. I had mushroom and leek quiche and husband had fruit and yogurt crepe. I am glad we live couple of blocks away from this restaurant. Looking forward to make frequent visits. Excellent ambience. Laid back. Good music. Good service.
(4)
Gail B.
Great French food for a great price! Pleasant experience. Even the small plates were plenty to eat. The food is reasonably priced but the wine is all on the high side. It would be nice if they had some other affordable wines.
(4)
R C.
Bistro Zinc is a fantastic place to get lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is great, and the staff is wonderful. The prices are comparable to other Chicago restaurants. HIghly recommend!
(5)
Stephanie W.
I came here with a friend, very excited by the outside decor and expecting to be blown away. For the most part, the food was very "meh". I had steak frites and wasn't particularly impressed with the steak or the frites. The service was great but the food was a bit of a disappointment.
(3)
Janine A.
Unfortunately, I have to give Bistro Zinc 2 stars due to the extremely poor service. The food was decent and the waiter started off great but it all went steeply down hill. He was a self proclaimed ninja due to the way he snuck in to refill water and coffee at first. He clearly has difficulties managing more than one table. We felt completely neglected and our time there was unnecessarily prolonged. We felt as if he was blatantly ignoring us. Will not be back here for a looong time.
(2)
Dallas F.
A quiet French restaurant seemed like the perfect place to escape the Gold Coast frenzy during Cinco De Mayo and that's how I wound up at Bistrot Zinc. Initially, we were just looking for a place to have dessert, but upon seeing the menu we just had to order more food. I ordered the Onion soup which was divine. I often find when I order French Onion soup its either too salty and straight from the Campbell's can and drowned in cheese to cover the taste, but that was not the case here. The soup was a perfect balance of saltiness and a hint of sweetness from what I assumed was sweet onions. The gruyere cheese baked on top didn't overpower the soup and it was just all around lovely. I also sampled a few of their mussels steamed with white wine. I love mussels and these were great! When it was finally time to order dessert, the reason for going to Bistro Zinc, I ordered the almond butter cake with macerated berries. I almost started this review by raving about how amazing the cake was. The berries were a nice touch and all, but the cake itself, I almost have no words! So rich and flavorful without being too heavy. Simply splendid. Everything about my dining experience here was great. The service was friendly, prompt and detailed. I can't wait to return to try the Poulet Grand-mere!
(4)
Chloe Z.
Such a cozy bistro for legit French food! The waiters are super nice. they seat you, bring you water/ bread just in time,and are SUPER knowledgeable about the wines. our waiters for the night is a French and you can tell he has a passion for the food he is serving i got the sauteed calf liver paired with mashed potato, fried onions, and red wine sauce. It was the perfect match with the perfect paring of textures. I got a dessert wine which is also fantastic! will def come back more often Update- I asked , via e-mail, the owner about the wine I had last night. he was so friendly and he went out of his way to help me figure out! definitely a plus!
(5)
Amy S.
This is a really cute Paris-feeling bistrot. The dishes are hearty and make you feel like you are in some place outside of the gold coast. My favorite item is here is the stew; it is rich in seasoning and the bread is fresh. It's just a nice little gem that doesn't attract the typical tourists (as Mortons/Gibsons/Tavern on Rush do).
(4)
Nicole C.
I've been a long-time fan of Bistrot Margot on Wells, so I felt like I was "cheating" on my French bistrot when I had lunch at Zinc today. But, I'm so glad I did. I had the soup and sandwich lunch special (see photo). The truffled egg salad sandwich was good -- although heavy on the butter lettuce, light on the egg salad and I didn't taste the truffle. The onion soup was DELISH! It is served in an over sized ramekin (I did miss the mini cast iron dishes at Margot). Thick, dark, full of flavor and topped with a heavy hand of gruyere cheese. Yum! And, they have really good coffee. :)
(4)
Michael D.
WE ALWAYS visit Bistrot Zinc when visiting Chicago..a bit of France in the windy city. Try the roasted chicken!! And the people are great!!!
(5)
Chris G.
Great food, great service, great atmosphere. We had the sandwich soup combination for lunch. The onion soup was quite a bit of food for me and I didn't care for so much cheese. I really liked my egg salad sandwich. The service was amazing. We went back for dinner. I had the trout and my wife had the lamb. We loved them both! I had the crepes for desert and was not disappointed.
(5)
Melissa B.
We decided to try this out for Restaurant Week this year. It wasn't my favorite, but overall I liked it. I think I was just a little uncomfortable at the table we were given, which started me off on the wrong foot. Our table of four had the onion soup, pate and goat cheese for our starters. I think we all agreed that the goat cheese was the winner. The pate wasn't bad, but I'm not really a fan. The onion soup was a little heavy on the cheese, and I love cheese! I can't speak for the other girls entrees. I was stuffed by that point and didn't share. I had the Steak frites. Other than the fact it was cooked medium well as opposed to medium it was delicious. Desserts were all wonderful! I loved my almond cake. Wine list was nice and very reasonable as well. Service was nice. Completely honest though...I've had better service. If the service were a little more friendly I'd return a lot faster.
(4)
Andrew N.
Great atmosphere for the girlfriend's birthday! Of all the restaurants in the area this one was the most reasonable and the food was delicious. I had the steak, and it was great. We will be back!
(4)
Nate H.
In my 4 day visit to Chicago, I went to Zinc twice! I love this place! I have never sat at a table, because the bar is so beautiful and the bartenders are wonderful. First, you are welcomed by thick crunchy waffle cut potato chips continually made in the kitchen and delivered in front of you in nice long wicker baskets. Treat yourself to one of the hard boiled eggs while you sip a cocktail and read the menu. Traditional bistro fare here, so whenever at a French bistro, I try the liver and onions. Usually comes with a red wine reduction sauce and mashed potatoes. This one did not disappoint! I would have appreciated a thinner slice of liver, but this is Chicago, and everything is served larger, so I adapted. I quickly learned to trust my bartender, Jason, so I just told him to bring me a great glass of red - he delivered perfectly. My dessert of was accompanied by a surprise from Jason - a Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur that just sent me over the edge of a great evening out. Some day I might actually get a table...well, maybe not.
(5)
Evan Thoreau H.
Ooh la la. C'est la vie. Uh-huh-ha. We were out the other night looking for a taste of classic French bistro cuisine and saw some good things about Zinc. Now, the inner Camus in me is struggling between three and four stars for a variety of reasons. I think another visit might clear that up, but with so many great bistros to choose from, dare I come back? Ah, the never-ending struggle yet again. So let's just get down to the Bons and Mals. Bon: -Atmosphere: by far the best part about the place. From the second you step up to the front door, you feel like you're entering a comfortable old bistro next to the river Seine. Inside it only gets better, with dim lighting, classic Parisian art and design, tucked away booths and spartan tables. You just feel like you're back in Paris. Loved it. -Bar/Wine: I like how the wine list was non-pretentious. Just good pours (many by the glass) of tasty, yet affordable French wines. The bar itself is obviously the centerpiece of the restaurant, as it's a classic Zinc topped bar (Bistrot Zinc, get it?). Bartender was polite and friendly and I thought the little tree of hardboiled eggs at the bar gave it an eggs-ceptionally authentic feel (that pun can go in the 'mal' category). Mal: -Price: Now, everything is relative, so don't get me wrong here. I don't think the prices are outrageous - especially for French dining - but they are a tad pricey for what you get. Bistro food is supposed to be simple, tasty and (again, relatively) cheap. It's what the French eat when they don't want to make a extravaganza of a meal. What you quickly realize is that you're paying a premium for the ambiance and the Old Town location, so I get that. I just wish it was a little more out of the way and a couple bucks cheaper for what you get... Comme si, comme ca: -The food: Again, think RELATIVE here. I think overall, the food is exactly what I was expecting: savory, quality bistro grub that warms the soul but doesn't have to be a show stopper. The estargot was excellent, huge snails and piping hot. I had the classic steak frites - steak was very thin, but cooked well, frites could have been a little more flavorful. My friend had the stew of the day, which was a beer and beef stew, which was very tasty. Finished with a chocolate mousse that was a nice light touch to the end of a meal. So why just so-so? Again, it was just tasty, standard bistro fare for a slightly inflated price. Overall, Bistrot Zinc certainly tickled my francophile taste buds and is a great place for a leisurely, classic French meal, but just be forewarned that you're mostly paying for the location.
(3)
j b.
What a lovely place. Made me want to go to France. Crepe ratatouille awesome. Bartender Lisa awesome. Pleasant, helpful, professional, sharing. Must try the locally made liquors from Koval: rose hips, jasmine, ginger.
(5)
Kristen S.
A friend and I decided to try our Bistrot ZInc for a Sunday brunch date. Everything was exceptional. The service, food and drink! I love the decor of the place. It truly is very "french". Our server was very quick to offer suggestions of their wine list and menu. I myself chose to order off of their brunch menu and had the Brioche French Toast. Holy heavens. AMAZING. I paired that with a glass of white wine and I was in brunch heaven. My friend ordered the Truffled Egg Salad sandwich and she couldnt complain. Will defintely be returning to this establishment! Its the perfect brunch spot. They also offer valet.
(5)
Reed N.
You know... I see two ridiculous reviews of this place below that are negative. Complaints about kitschy decor... not true. Comments about what patrons think... like they read minds or something. Complaints about portion size... not true. Complaints about prices... not true. Complaints about vinegar, but not asking the server to fix it... not fair. Complaints about a server not taking a picture. Uh... SERVER, not photographer. They have other work to do sparky. So let me give you a REAL review. I have been to France 7 times. Yes. Seven. For a total of about 70 days. I know French food quite well. So... We were seated at a gloriously fortunate table all the way against the back wall away from the noise of the center of the place. It was a busy Saturday night. Our server was an enthusiastic gentlemen who was honestly working his ass off. He helped us narrow our choice of food down to: Burger with blue cheese and fries. The frite were brown to perfection and the burger was a lean patty cooked to medium rare state... but still warm throughout and not bloody. Just as tender and delicious as you will find. Not a huge patty, but just fine. My girl and I do not do buns, so no comment there. Cassoulet was a looser than a traditional version... a little more liquid is what I mean. Served on a plate in a large portion. Traditional servings are a bit smaller in a crock with breadcrumbs on top. The beans and sauce were slightly smoky and were excellent. The duck quarter was excellent as well. The sausage was odd, but still positive and flavorful meat. Call it uniquely spiced. The lamb... good GOD the lamb. I have eaten dozens of pounds of lamb. The lamb chunks were the absolute best lamb I have ever eaten in my 43 years... Ever. Tender. Flavorful. Just perfect. The side item was brussel sprouts with bacon and prunes. The french use prunes [pruneau] to offset earthy dishs like potatoes and, well brussel sprouts... and with with proteins like pork and chicken. The sweetness is just wonderful with these items. Anyway, the salty bacon, sweet prunes and earthy sprouts combine to create a trio of fun on your pallet. Really, for a bistro, we received more than we expected in flavor and value. This is a great little place in a great location. You could get fancier... but that does not make the food better. Food is what I am rating, and this place is 5-star.
(5)
Bob W.
Bistro Zinc is right next to our place and is about the only restaurant in the area serving things that require more words to describe than "edible". In fact every time I come here I am pleasantly surprised, which is a nice feeling I am probably ruining by writing this review. I haven't had anything less than good here and the starter bread and butter is excellent and this from someone normally who doesn't do the buttered carbs thing. Their mashed potatoes are easily some of the best anywhere. I can personally vouch for the tastiness of the Poulet Grand Mère, the cassoulet that is usually a special and the Vol-au-Vent (which comes with said mashed potatoes). The chicken crepe is also quite good and my wife says the ratatouille is excellent as well. Desserts are probably delicious but always so bog standard looking that we never order any. Also we are usually full with the quite large portions that actually somewhat justify the prices. Finally, I can't recall any place that serves such distinctly and authentically french bourgeoise. The uniqueness along with the quality make this the best restaurant in the area, though Tanta may usurp it.
(4)
Frances H.
My husband and I went here for weekend brunch. We were lucky enough to find parking right away, which we realized on our way there may be an ordeal considering the location of the restaurant (poor planning on our part and just dumb luck). The restaurant is cute, standard french style cafe (similar to those in Paris, but way bigger and more spacious). It was a gorgeous day so we had sat by the windows which were open. Apparently this was also the couple zone as every table was occupied by a couple (except for the ladies next to us). For our meal, we had the following: French onion soup - Definitely cheesy, very sweet onion flavor. However a bit salty to my taste, and was served warm (almost room temp), as opposed to piping hot. I am a fan of piping hot soup, so was not loving this...but my husband, who prefers lukewarm food, loved it. Lamb sandwich - Simple lamb flavor, highlighted by onions and the creamy spread. Perfect for those lamb purists. I loved the waffle chips that came with the sandwich, which I devoured not very stealthily from my husband's plate. Pan-fried trout - This was perfectly cooked in butter. It even turned my husband around, who up to that point did not see trout as a viable food option. However, I thought the fish was lacking a bit of salt, which was easily remedied (as I was seasoning my eggs). The one low point of the dish were the potatoes, which I think were supposed to be roasted, but I couldn't tell as they were drowning in olive oil/butter? I love potatoes, I love butter...but even I couldn't really enjoy the soggy potatoes. Overall, superb experience in dining. The food came out extremely quickly, which was much appreciated as I was starving. Will definitely go back to check out the crepes.
(4)
Keerthi A.
Went on a weekday night with a girlfriend and it was the perfect place to eat. The place was relatively quiet and we had decent attention from our waiter, he seemed a bit frazzled though. We both ordered the crepes, I got the ratatouille and my friend ordered the Chicken, which was good apparently. My ratatouille crepe was really good, well presented. The portion was quite a bit, so took some home. We had a glass of wine, and it was just the perfect neighborhood joint with a relaxed atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
(3)
Blonde H.
Bistro Zinc is one of my favorite French Bistro in Chicago. On a minus temps Tuesday night, I choose this spot to take a client after attending a luxe business affair where we had Hors d'oeuvre. We decided sitting at the bar would suit our light fare requests. My business guest, ordered soup and a glass of wine. I ordered escargot with a glass of wine. The bartender was a women with a bad attitude, who gave us lip on our wine questions. When my escargot came, delicious as always I will positively add, I asked for a plate of bread, as it was not proper to be sharing my business guest bread plate. The bar tender "clicked her tongue like a hen." And got the bread, like she was doing me a favor. I practice being nice to wait staff and bartenders. Chicago neighborhoods are intimate and small. We repeat our visits here. Bistro, you lost me as a loyal patron. When we walked out the door, my client expressed her dislike of the bartender. This none the less did not pan out to be the dining experience I had planned on, and it cost me business.
(2)
Irina H.
5 stars for the waiters and the owner, who care very much about whether their customers are enjoying their food or not. My mother didn't touch her soup (since she had a stroke, we can only guess at what she wants to eat), and the staff noticed and were very concerned that she get something to her liking. We greatly enjoyed the mussels appetizer, as well as our brunch menu sandwiches and crepes, and we shared an order of profiteroles for dessert. I though the restaurant had a lovely, sunny atmosphere. You do get the "Viagra Triangle" crowd around here, so it's not really my kind of scene, but would recommend it nonetheless.
(5)
Kwoky L.
When I was learning French at the Alliance Francaise, we got a gift certificate of $25 for Bistrot Zinc which was why we came for dinner about a year or two ago. I got to admit, I like French food but I don't love it. I figured I should at least give it a try. Bistro food is very predictable. There's escargot, steak frites, ratatouile, poulet roti, quiche, you get the gist. It's really how well they prepared it. My trout meuniere was cooked quite well. In fact, it was my first fish a la meuniere and enjoyed it that I tried making it at home the next evening. Overall, it was a good dinner in a very French setting but nothing spectacular. The decor did remind me of Paris though. Definitely a place to check out if you're in the neighbourhood.
(3)
Tenzo D.
Solid choice that never disappoints. OK, it disappoints just a little. Like someone said, they need to add duck. And some steak tartar. ohhhh and bulubaise. But seriously. Its the best french cafe we have found in the gold cost / old town area. Consistent and good waiter. Brought my French mother in law once and she was pleased. Now if they would only let dogs in......
(4)
Polly S.
Decided to try Bistrot Zinc out for brunch namely because they take reservations, whereas, other brunch places do not. The french decor was nice - all reds and mustard yellow. Best seats in the house are definitely by the windows so I would suggest specifically requesting that area. Service was helpful and friendly. The brunch menu left something to be desired. A bit uninspired. Ordered a crepe with mushroom, spinach, and goat cheese. Decent, but nothing special. Boyfriend ordered nicoise salad - again, decent, but nothing special. The mimosa was refreshing and tasty but at $9, too expensive to order a second. Lesson learned? To avoid a wait, I got something decent, but nothing special here. Next time I'll be more patient - a good brunch spot is worth the wait!
(3)
Ryan C.
I went with friends during Restaurant Week and opted for the prix fixe. C'est si bon! The french onion soup was delicious, although mine came with almost too much cheese. It was easy enough to avoid, though. And I'm guessing I just offended the entire state of WI. I enjoyed the grilled salmon as well, and I don't eat fish frequently. It paired well with the bottle of Sauv Blanc we ordered. The pot de creme was, in a word, amazeballs. You are a fool not to order it.
(4)
Christina M.
I love their french onion soup! I can't take it!! so delicous and their Royal is my favorite burger in the gold coast!
(4)
Gerardo R.
Visiting Chicago for a couple of days, went to Bistrot Zinc because of our concierge. The food was really well prepared and tasted like authentic french. The service was good. The atmosphere was more of the older crowd who demands true french cuisine and not so much a happening scene. Liked the fact that the menu features monthly chef seasonal specials. Good french wine list. Do recommend it.
(3)
Dory O.
We went to Bistrot Zinc for a midday lunch. It was fantastic. We both had the french onion soup and it was cheesy and fab. I also had the chicken and mushroom crepe and it was out of this world. I will definitely go back.
(5)
Mahsa T.
Nestled among the shops, restaurants, and hubbub of the State/Rush Street area is a little French oasis that will make you forget you're in the middle of Chicago. Bistro Zinc is casual, inviting, and classy. I enjoyed a very serene Saturday brunch here with my friend. It was very peaceful and quiet--just the light chatter of our neighboring tables. We had a nice table by the window and service was prompt and professional. Food was excellent. I ordered the eggs Benedict which came with poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and Hollandaise sauce on two English muffins. My only complaint is that the whites of my eggs were a little bit runny, but it was not a big deal. My friend had the spinach and mushroom omelette, which she liked. They have great coffee too. I highly recommend this laid-back, charming place for a delicious meal.
(4)
Jim W.
The duck was perfectly matched with the tarragon roasted peach. What a surprise.
Intimate, cozy & super clean. As French as one can find in Chicago. Service excellent 'specially Matt. Never had to wait for refills etc. Has an excellent menu. Portions are very good. Not over the top. The quiche tu jour & salad, excellent lunch choice. Would definitely recommend and dine here again. Price $$ for lunch $$$ for dinner. Worth a trip.
(4)
Fe T.
Checked in here the other day for lunch. I ordered what most yelpers recommended - the lamb sandwich. It's amazing. The waffle fries are tasty and the service is good too. People here are very friendly. They play great music. I will definitely come back here if I want to take a friend out for lunch. The price is reasonable. This is a must-check-out place!
(5)
Lee K.
Worthy of 4 1/2 stars. This is one of the best French restaurants we've dined at. Our family of four agreed it served us the best French onion soup and mussels in light cream sauce. We really liked all of our entrees including baked fish and roast chicken. Excellent ambiance and service. I would have given it a solid 5 stars if the menu was more varied and included some creative dishes.
(4)
Paddy R.
Every time I visit Chicago, I make a lunch or brunch date at Bistrot Zinc. The food is delicious, authentic and fairly priced. The atmosphere is comfortable, like a great Paris bistrot. On my most recent visit, I made a mistake and ordered the wrong salad. The owner, without me asking but overhearing my conversation with the server, promptly took the dish away and made me the salad I anticipated. The server apologized for delay in bringing the dish, even though it was my fault that a new one was being prepared. The exceptional customer service went beyond what would be expected at any restaurant. On leaving, we asked the owner about other dining spots in Chicago and she was generous with suggestions. My second trip to Bistrot Zinc was due to having one of the best burgers I had ever had, regardless of type of restaurant. Subsequent visits were due to the combination of good food, great atmosphere and attentive service. From this point on, trips to Bistrot Zinc will be due to how special the staff made me and my friends feel when having lunch there.
(5)
Nick W.
Not too fancy, just right.
(4)
Patrick B.
This is the best kept secret in Old Town. What a great place to have lunch or dinner. The food is excellent. The waiters are friendly and the atmosphere is wonderful. Loved it!!!
(5)
Amanda C.
Went here for dinner with a group during restaurant week. French food is one of my favorite cuisines and Bistrot Zinc does not disappoint. They start you off with bread/butter and the butter is seriously SO good. The baguttes are flaky on the outside and soft on the inside. The wine list is extensive with most of the wines coming from France which is cool. I think there were only 2 American options out of 30+. For an appetizer I had the goat cheese souffle and steak frites for the entree. I also tried the salmon and for dessert we had almond cake and chocolate mousse. Everything was so delicious. One of the best things about our experience here was that even though it was crowded and restaurant week, we never felt rushed and really enjoyed our 2+ hour dinner. The atmosphere is just really relaxed. Our server was patient and attentive and I wish I could remember his name!
(5)
Janet E.
Came here for a return visit and it didnt disappoint. Service was spot on. Our waiter seemed genuinely interested in serving us. It was about 2pm on a Saturday and there were about 12 other tables seated! Who eats that late? Oh wait, I do. This is one of the ONLY French restaurants that we could find that opened between 2-5pm. All other establishments were closed until dinner. Thank goodness Bistro Zinc chooses not to follow the others! We tried the potato soup, the lamb sandwich, and the poached eggs over smoked salmon. For dessert we tried the creme brulee. Everything was delicious!! The lamb was surprisingly tender and the aftertaste was almost undetectable! Yummie! Prices were reasonable here and the dining atmosphere was very nice. If french food weren't so buttery I'd be here more often!
(4)
S G.
Ok. It's always hit or miss on vacation. The pressure is on to make a good choice because time is limited. The family ordered pear and goat cheese salad to share along with onion soup and a bottle of Medoc. A mystery order of escargot appeared, but we didn't mind and they were great! I had the steak frite, my daughter ordered crepe with chicken and mushroom, my husband ordered stew in puff pastry. Honestly this restaurant was more French than American. There was no pressure to vacate the place in short order. As a matter of fact we were invited to take our time between courses. The entrees were yummy. The steak was just steak but perfectly cooked. The stew in puff pastry was masterfully seasoned as was the crepe, which ended up being the hit of the night. Delicately cooked and well put together is the French way. Cafe Zinc did not disappoint. I haven't yet mentioned the service which was amazing. Friendly and accommodating with an atmosphere which allowed the family to talk to one another and relax. We ordered dessert because we didn't really want to leave when the meal was over. Warmed Almond Cake with fruit compote and espresso pot De creme. Ok we were really too full to eat it but we just couldn't help ourselves. The moral of the story is....GO TO CAFE ZINC.
I was looking forward to dining at this restaurant because I'm such a francophile. This was an overall dissapointing expieriance. I ordered the steal au poivre which I ordered medium well, It came out beyond well done and resembled shoe leather. My salad and dessert we good though. The champagne I ordered was flat though. Very nice service but if I want good French food I'll go to cite.
(2)
Shin M.
I got some vegetable cous cous dish which was really good but not filling at all. The server was really nice to my friends and me up until we asked him if he could split the bill 3 ways. He got very very upset and said this was going to take a while. He came back with the bill with hand written calculations all over it and just threw it on our table. Needless to say, he did not earn the 20% we were all initially going to give him...
(3)
Evan M.
Fairly average food and rude and pretentious staff. Steak frites was tough and tasteless. Place lacks any atmosphere. I would have given no stars if it was an option. Don't go unless you are 70+ years old
(1)
Penni P.
I met a friend for lunch that had recently moved from San Diego to Chicago...did I happen to mention it was only 16 degrees? Now for the review. The place is very charming and the staff is super nice and VERY accommodating. We had an infant with us and they were very helpful. We had the escargot...delish, especially dipping the bread in the butter. The Caesar was very good, lots of anchovy flavor...yummmm. My friend got the onion suop...super cheesy and she loved it. We also ordered the Salmon dill crepe...if you love creme fraishe you will love this. It had a lot of Salmon and too much creme for my personal taste. I also ordered the creme brulee. One of the best ones yet. Just a little light lunch for the girls =)
(4)
H W.
The laid back authentic atmosphere is great. Lisa the bartender, rocks this experience, and the waiter was superb. The food so good, and prepared perfectly. Definitely will be returning.
(5)
Stothe H.
Lousy experience here. Food was good but we made the mistake of sitting at the bar and for whatever reason, the bartender - Lisa - a woman with very short brown hair, decided that she hated us but loved everyone else who we assumed must be regulars. The people sitting next to us said, "Oh Lisa is a mixologist, ask her to make you something special!", so when we asked for her suggestion on a drink using tequila and orange she said, "Ugh, I don't know, I hate tequila so I don't make those drinks". Umm, okay. The mood was chilly throughout and finally just turned cold to the point where we knew we were not welcome. It's a shame because the food was good and we all like French cuisine but no food is worth feeling like you're an unwelcome sack if merde. I actually called the restaurant because we wanted to go back and try it again this weekend so I asked if she was working - when I realized I was talking to a manager (he identified himself as a co-owner) I told him I was asking if Lisa was working because she was so rude to us and we didn't want to come back if she would be there. He said, "yes, she's working on Friday", to which I replied, "Well I guess we won't come in because she was very clear that she hated us" and he said, "OK"... Well screw you dude. I'll take my cash elsewhere! Businesses aren't run the way they used to be and a place like that shouldn't be proud of a mean bartender. Lisa, who hurt you!?!? To Maison we go!
Everything about this place was beautiful. The windows open onto the street, the layout, the floor, the plate of fruit (a suggestion made by the waiter, which actually is the best thing a waiter has ever suggested, because every brunch needs fruit), the waiters themselves, and finally, the food. Brioche french toast with vanilla mascarpone hit the spot. The poached eggs were perfectly cooked, and the hollandaise was light and tasty, not the buttery mass you sometimes get. Fresh spinach, fresh smoked salmon, etc. etc. A true quality-not-quantity breakfast worth every penny (it's slightly more expensive than our original destination, the pancake house). Rubbish coffee but that's to be expected. If the dinners are as well executed as the breakfast, it's worth an evening visit. This seems to be genuine french fare cooked really well and served in an authentic bistro-y atmosphere.
(5)
Aashish J.
Who can say no to fogra? This place is so goooood...quails and lentils, snails dipped in garlic/butter and fogra; yes fogra for appetizer...grilled salmon on spinach and mushroom for entree...creme brule for dessert! What else can one ask for? A little heavy on the wallet but you gotta do that once in a while :D Thumbs up: 1. Food: delicious 2. Ambiance: not too loud; good for dates or for a small group 3. Service: nice, courteous servers Thumbs down: 1. Price: $$$!
(4)
Katie V.
Bumping them up a star....I think they deserve it. The food is consistently good and it's a great lunch spot whether you're alone or with friends. The soup + 1/2 sandwich deal is excellent. The french onion soup is so cheesy and delicious -- for a dollar upcharge, you can get it instead of the soup du jour with the sandwich combo. Brunch is great there, too -- lots of traditional options and also some lighter fare if you're trying to not spend the rest of your day in a food coma. Lovely space, attentive service -- a definite gem in the neighborhood.
(4)
Michael M.
Worst bistro in Chicago Bad service food. Attitude. And expensive for quality
(1)
Sfg S.
We went on a crowded Friday night and were greeted by a cheery hostess who was able to sit us down right away. The waiter came right over with menus, took a drink order and returned in very reasonable time. Both dinners came out hot and were cooked to order. Can't wait to return to Chicago where we will put Bistrot Zinc on our must visit again.
(4)
John R.
Loved the food. Not cheap, but tastes great.
(4)
Ali B.
Bonjour, j'adore ESCARGOT, wee! Bistro Zinc is the kind of place that you would see in a movie. There is no glitz & glam but a traditional French approach-a neighborhood restaurant people have been going for years (w/good clientele). It is warm, welcoming and always busy. We sat in the back feasting on Escargot while sipping wine. (Escargot BZ: French snails, herb garlic butter, Pernod, pesto crumbs). The Escargot was fantastic and served in very French style! I would definitely go back and see what else this restaurant has to offer. Good for a meeting, 3rd date or later and to catch up with a girlfriend.
(3)
michael b.
Great food, service, and a comfortable welcoming atmosphere, this place is a new favorite. Very reasonable and a true local gem... see you there!
(5)
A H.
This place is a treat for a sunny Sunday brunch. It's so adorable inside, and I almost felt like I was in France. If only! The place is bright, and there's plenty of things to admire and notice on the walls. The food was terrific, and I highly recommend the brioche french toast with the vanilla mascarpone cream topping. Yum! I also spied some delicious looking crepes at the table next to us. I want to go back and try one of those and the Croque Monsieur. Bonus: they take reservations for brunch!
(4)
R T.
Cheerful place with a casual atmosphere and the usual super tiny tables (Sometimes, I think downtown Chicago must be peopled by Lilliputians). I wasn't too happy with the faux French maitre de, with the snooty beret and matching attitude, who seated us right next to the front door on the chilliest day. I think she took the stereotype literally. The menu's not extensive, Classic fare- crepes and the like. Brunch prices were reasonable. My friend really enjoyed her lamb stew vol au vent dish. I might go back to try it.
(3)
Colleen C.
I've held out on writing this review...as it made me sad to think about. Yes, sad. Why? Because when I dined here on a lovely Friday, the sun was shining, the birds were chirpin'...and it was....WARM. So, after this day all went to hell, the weather froze over...it rained for a week, it snowed. It hailed. It all went straight to shit, and I couldn't even bare to recollect the BZ experience without dropping tears into my cold coffee. Depressing! However, today...as the temps strive for...60! I am able. Spring is upon us, for good. YAY! I was invited to dine with the illustrious Dennis S for a leisurely Friday lunch...Paige W and Tara M also joined me. Having a rather mild aversion to the Viagra Triangle, this chic stop wasn't even on my radar, but now...it's my benchmark for French cuisine in Chicago, that won't drive you straight to the poorhouse. Dennis is a champion of French dining, and so I must say some of the experience is attributed to his knowledge, stories of Paris, and the like. However, the service was impeccable (thank you, Nick), and the vibe was comfort, all around. I speak only for my own dishes...as I was so enamored with them, I barely had a chance to peek at the others'. My brie and apple sandwich on brioche was absolutely drool-worthy, as was the french onion soup and hand cut chips. The pate and cheese plate to start was a decadent tease, as were the biscuits drowning happily in cheese...mmmmm, so delightful. Dessert? Why a chocolate crepe of course...do you expect anything else? Despite my best efforts to resist the wine...I could not, and managed to sip my way into a very pleasant, French-fueled buzz...making the rest of Friday afternoon very unproductive. :) For more adequate and well-put reviews, please see also: Dennis S and Tara M. They apparently pay way better attention under the influence than I do. ;)
(5)
Emily B.
My advice on this one is to go full-out French. I was there for lunch and thought just a salad would do. So I got it, but then I started to marvel at all the traditional French delicacies that were coming out to other tables including the French onion soup, the quiche, the steak & frites, etc. Don't skimp on this one. Just get what you came to the "French place" for and you'll have no regrets. Plus the atmosphere is nothing short of highly adorable.
(4)
Dennis S.
The perfect place for a long French lunch on a pleasant Friday afternoon. Tara M's review on 3/6/09 does a great job of describing our long Friday lunch at Bistrot Zinc. Bistrot Zinc is one of the few French bistros on the north side that stays open all afternoon, so we didn't need to worry about any "our kitchen is closing now" nonsense. We started late and stayed late. Tara didn't cover the specifics of our wines. We started with kirs - white wine (preferably a white Burgundy) and crème de cassis. Then we went through a few bottles of a nice Pouilly Fume. After coffees and dessert, we ended with Muscat Beaumes de Venise. Beaumes de Venise is a great finishing drink, an apple/honey tasting fortified wine. My main course was again their trout, which was cooked perfect and as tasty as can be. Sharing desserts made for a taste treat, although we each managed to finish our own when our plates got back to us. The afternoon was relaxing, with continual good service even though we lingered for over three hours. It was a perfect "who cares what else is happening in the world" French lunch on a warm Friday afternoon. Bistrot Zinc did a great job of providing everything we needed to make this happen.
(4)
Paloma M.
Beautiful place, nicely decorated, staff was very attentive and the food was amazing! I had a goat cheese salad with nuts and an almond butter cake for dessert. Just perfect!
(4)
Iris W.
I absolutely love this place! I've been here twice and have ordered the same thing both times. Lamb Sandwich. Get it. It's served with these super flavorful, grilled red onions in the sandwich and with crispy waffle chips on the side. YUM. The atmosphere is great, people there are nice, service is great and efficient. You need to go, especially if you love lamb! I went with a friend and she loved their truffle chicken salad sandwich and french onion soup. Everything seems great on the menu-- I'm going to have to try something new next time.
(5)
Teresa M.
What a great find this was! Loved walking around the neighborhood in the Gold Coast area and since we were staying at the Hotel Indigo, this place was just around the corner. Our waiter was fantastic, and although he said he had only been working there 3 months, he knew his way around the menu, the wine list, etc like a pro. I had the bouillabase, which was excellent and finished with the creme brulee. Perfect! Like a little bit of Paris in Chicago.
(5)
Natalie G.
Thank goodness! I have amazing friends who are hilarious and entertaining, because if my experience was based on the food itself, it was simply ok. I found this place on yelp, and should have followed Annie Y's review, because it was really very mediocre. I love brunch, but I hate brunch lines... So, when I came across this place that took reservations, this was a go for me and my gals! 10:30 am: The magical hour of Sunday brunch. Anything past that window of time, all you get is lines and crowds and lines. We got here, and it was us and the senior citizens = perfection. We were seated at a lovely table near the window, and brunch commenced. The menu was french with classic brunch dishes of eggs benedict, crepes, and run of the mill kinda stuff. The menu was not entirely expansive, but decent sandwiches and salads too. - Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict: The Eggs benedict dishes was boxed and featured, so 3 out of 4 of us ended up with the smoked salmon eggs benedict. It was good, but nothing that super impressed me. The smoked salmon was cut a little too thick so a bit on the heavy side, and we had the hollandaise on the side, and that was just a bit just unimpressive. - French Onion: My friend got this, and she is a french onion junkie. She enjoyed it, but it was not something that she was uberly impressed with - Mimosas: They were good.. but for $9 a glass, didn't encourage us to keep drinking. All in all. This spot was mediocre. It did not wow me, but it did not disgust me. I probably wouldn't come back, because there are so many other amazing places to try. But for what is it, it's simply a-ok.
(3)
Adam A.
Each time we go here seems better than the last. Great food, wait staff make it feel elegant but not stuffy, perfect combination. A must!
(5)
Shaun F.
Consistently great French Bistro! The food is the epitome of traditional french cooking. Try the stew du jour in a puff pastry- it changes every now and then and is always yummy! I have been coming here for a few years now and am always pleased by the food and service. The regular bar tenders are fantastic and always fun to chat with! My wife loves to order a French 75 or a French Martini- she always loves them. The menu may be small, but I can't tell you how much I prefer a small menu done well over a large menu that takes an hour to look through and can be hit-or-miss. Bistro Zinc is NOT expensive especially for the quality and location. People, everything is made in house by a chef for God's sake!
(5)
L S.
Very enjoyable! Went there with sleepy ten year old after theater. We all loved it - service was good - food was good - mussels were the best I've had in Chicago. Did not get to linger or stay for dessert but will go back again to enjoy without the sleepy one!
(4)
Taryn T.
I stopped here for lunch, and I would basically consider this place a pleasantly high-quality Panera or Corner Bakery. I ordered a "half and half" combo with French onion soup (highly recommend - it was delicious here) and a toasted turkey sandwich. They also served delicious, straight-out-of-the-oven warm bread with butter - a huge personal weakness. It wasn't crowded, the service was extremely friendly and attentive, and everything was very affordable considering the location - the bill was around $25 for two people. I'd definitely come back here for another lunch or to try the dinner menu.
(4)
Heather D.
I used to work in this neighborhood and this place quickly became one of my favorite after work destinations. I still go there a lot and consider it one of my standbys. This is by far the best bistro I've come across in Chicago. The food is standard bistro fare that is well executed and the service is always friendly and professional. I always feel welcome here and even feel comfortable dining alone or grabbing a drink at the bar. There is a real neighborhood feel to the place and it's a great option if you want to escape all the douche bags who hang out on Division, but also don't want to go to the Viagra Triangle haunts like Gibsons, and Hugo Frogs. The menu is pretty typical of a French bistro and it's a good option for both a lunch and dinner. It seems that I always have to order the escargot. They are the best I've ever had and I could easily eat a whole serving myself. I also really enjoy their steak frites and croque monsieur as well as their selection of soups. I have never been disappointed by a meal here. I also always order dessert and that is something I rarely do at other restaurants.
I'd really like to understand what the heck happened here. Let me preface this review update by saying that I am an educated, cultured, and successful professional who has worked many years in the service industry while in university and grad school. So I am always a great customer, smiling and easy, and very low maintenance. I'm also a very good tipper. And before you start scoffing, let me just say that prior to cabbing it to Bistrot Zinc, my friends and I kicked off our Friday-before-Memorial Day at a River North bar that featured drink and appetizer specials. The bill came to $46 and I left a $40 tip to ensure the very attentive and friendly bartender did not lose out because of the special prices. My two friends and I arrive at Bistrot Zinc around 7ish pm and were promptly seated. Our server shows up, tall with a shaved head, and at first is friendly and engaging. I immediately say, "We would like a bottle of champagne." Translation: "We are celebrating. We are spending money. You will get a good tip." The server gives us a nice run down of their selections and offers to bring us a sample of one of them, which we find perfectly fine. So we order a bottle. A few minutes later the server shows up, opens the bottle, and pours each of us our first glass. We place an order for escargot to get started. Then.......................nothing. No follow up. No offer to make a second pour. No appetizer. We had to flag a bus boy to inquire about our escargot. The server comes over and makes some lame excuse like we were so engaged in banter about the champagne that he forgot to put the order in. He then looks like he's about to walk away and we tell him we would like to order entrees. He takes our orders and I say audibly "What's left in the bottle?" Translation: "You didn't bother to check on us, and we have emptied the bottle by pouring it ourselves, but shockers, we are still interested in ordering another one." Nothing....no acknowledgement, no follow up, the server just walks away. One of my friends is then so fed up he walks to the front and asks for the manager. The manager comes over, we voice our concerns, and then ask for another server to finish out the evening. He complied nicely and the replacement server (and his trainee) were a dream, thankfully salvaging what would have otherwise been a disappointing evening. We also had our three desserts gratis. So my question to the original server is what the heck did we do to put you off? I'd really like to know. And by the way, I'm an Asian guy with a shaved head. I was wearing a navy and white checked shirt. The friend to my right was a lovely Asian woman wearing glasses, and my other friend was seated facing her. He's Caucasian, salt and pepper hair, and glasses. I want you to know exactly who we are. And I hope to goodness that the lovely replacement server and trainee collected our tip. Because you don't serve a penny of it. I ask again, what did we do to put you off? The two stars are only because the situation was somewhat rectified with the exceptional replacement server. I have loved Bistrot Zinc for many years, but frankly Chicago has many options now, and I won't be back.
(2)
Carolyn L.
I have loved Bistrot Zinc for about 4 years now, since I first discovered it with my mother back in 2006. I've spent a year in Paris so I'm pretty picky when it comes to French establishments, but this place is just so cute and authentic, I can't resist gushing over it. On Saturday, I went for a late lunch with my friend. She ordered a banana and nutella crepe which looked delicious. I wanted something more hearty so I ordered the Moroccan couscous dish and was very happy with my selection. It came out hot, with just the right portion size. There were great spices and it complemented my Cotes du Rhone wine selection nicely. I also enjoyed a glass of port for dessert. I'd definitely go back and I would encourage other people I know to go back, too!
(5)
Beth G.
Great food, great atmosphere! The waiter was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable. I would have dinner here every night if I could afford it!
(5)
Stephanie W.
I have to agree with Reed N. here - the negative reviews are a little unwarrantedly harsh. Let me enumerate all the reasons why I love Bistro Zinc. For background information, my parents live right around the corner and this is one of their favorite neighborhood spots (in a neighborhood of easily accessible good food). They're here on average at least once every two weeks. 1. The service. The host, Michael, always greets us with a smile and seats us promptly, despite the fact that we never have a reservation. He's totally sweet and attentive, and most of the servers are pretty damn good as well. They space out a little on occasion, but Nothing major, and the bus boys are always quick about serving and clearing. 2. The ambiance. Cute and cozy. Dark enough to talk intimately, quiet enough to not have to shout to be heard. And the tables are actually not on top of each other, a real luxury these days. 3. The food. Believe me when I say I've never had a bad meal here, and I really find just about everything on the menu appealing. On my most recent visit, we tried... - Bread and butter. I know, I know, every French place and almost every dinner restaurant serves bread and butter. But the butter here is particularly good. - Green salad. Just simply dressed butter lettuce. Crisp and refreshing and light. - Salade au chevre. A goat cheese salad served with red onions and pears on a bed of mixed greens. A little too big for me, but super yummy. Great balance of flavors and even though the dressing looked a little much for me, it was just perfect. - The Mussels. A big steaming bowl of large, tender mussels in a garlic sauce. Expertly prepared and oh so delicious. - Butternut squash risotto with fried sage leaves. First of all, I love risotto. Second of all, I love butternut squash. What could have been better? The small chunks of squash in the risotto and the slight crunch of the fried sage leaves were nice touches. - Steak au poivre. Deliciously covered in pepper and cooked just to the medium rare side of rare. Yummy yummy. - Roasted vegetables. A little known secret - these potatoes, carrots, parsnips etc are actully cooked in duck fat, so don't pride yourself on being virtuous by ordering these. So good though. Totally worth it. - Profiteroles. What more can be said? Three perfect little pastries filled with ice cream and covered with chocolate sauce. Who could resist? - Almond butter cake with macerated berries. The perfect finisher to a night of good food. Warm, luscious almond butter cake served with whipped cream and the requisite berries, a delightful mouthful in every bite. Yes, we did eat way more than three people should have, but it was all so good and worth every bite. I would recommend ordering any/all of the items we tried.
(5)
Andre W.
Pretty nice place to get a great meal! An ex-girlfriend thought it would be a great idea to check this place out. I was skeptical at first (I don't know why). I was really impressed with it. Really nice decor and great mood music! I had the duck breast and she had the grilled salmon. The duck breast was really juicy and came with rice. The wine wasn't very expensive and both dishes were great (yeah, I had to finish hers because she got too full). The girl that served us was pretty fast and was always available. I would definately recommend this place to anyone. Great for first dates and great for taking your already established significant other.
(5)
Stefan J.
We celebrated Christmas Eve here this year. As a neighborhood spot, nice to have close by. Simple but complete menu with all the standard choices and a few pleasant additions as starters and mains. Nice ambiance and professional/courteous staff. We enjoyed our evening, and with the generally poor Gold Coast restaurant scene to deal with, this is one we'll continue enjoying.
(3)
Mary S.
Excellent French bistro! My husband and I have been here a handful of times and some were special occasions. The manager introduced himself our first visit and remembered us almost a year later. Recently we ate at the bar and had the to-die-for onion soup and the delicious mussels in white wine. Our bartender Lisa even surprised us at the end of dinner with a cupcake the staff had received from a near by bakery.
(5)
Jay B.
Great food, staff and this has a distinct feel of a true french restaurant. I will be returning there next time I am in Chicago.
(5)
Paul W.
Always a good option. Pleasant space, crowd pleasing menu, and prompt (though indifferent) service. French onion soup, salads and stew were good and presented nicely.
(3)
Laura H.
I'm very fortunate to have a great friend in Chicago, who always takes me to the hot spots in Chicago. Bistrot Zinc is no exception. A standard french restaurant, I got the Caesar salad, french onion soup and bloody mary. All were pretty decent, and the french onion soup was cheesy and delicious. The wait staff was very helpful and attentive, which I appreciated! The restaurant has open windows, so you can sit inside/outside. Great people watching on the busy street. The restaurant is close to the water and lots of shopping in the area as well.
(3)
Sarah J.
One of my favorite spots in the city! My family has celebrated quite a few events here, and everyone is always happy with Bistrot Zinc. If you're just stopping by for a drink and some appetizers, sit at the bar and try their delicious chips. They have the best french onion in the Chicago. The desserts are amazing.
(5)
Alex R.
Bistro Zinc, a traditional, casual French joint with friendly, attentive service, is just the kind of place I love. Its the kind of place to sit at the bar for a glass of wine and an early afternoon snack. At the same time, it's the kind of place to bring an old friend for a fun, classic, reasonable dinner downtown. As I said, service is very attentive and very friendly. When I devoured the bread, more was almost immediately brought. My server was always there when I needed them, but I never felt rushed. Simple, unobtrusive, pleasant. The food is A-OK. Nothing is particularly memorable, but the menu is filled with classics that anyone versed in French Cuisine will find perfectly acceptable. Steak frites were a little off, the steak being oddly thin and somewhat tough, and the frites being a little soggier than I would prefer. At the end of the day, the place has a relaxed charm, and that will keep me coming back.
(3)
Tory w.
I really like Bistrot Zinc. The ambiance is great - it looks just like the inside of a French cafe, which makes me yearn, but in a good way. I went there a few weeks ago with a large group on a Wednesday afternoon, so we were pretty much the only customers in the place. They were very friendly and accommodating. The food is always delicious as well. I have had lots of things on the menu - crepes, onion soup, croque monsieur, steak, and everything is good and fairly authentic. Their desserts are absolutely amazing - the chocolate mousse and chocolate cake in particular. I do feel that their prices are steeper than they should be - maybe it's the location, I don't know, but I do know that other French restaurants in Chicago have cheaper menus for the same items and the same if not better quality. Also, don't order the pear salad if you're hungry, it's tres petite!
(3)
Z D.
One of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. I always bring family and they especially love the mussels. And, as East-coasters, we're picky about shellfish. I end up drinking more wine than I expect - so I will now always go with the bottle, not by the glass (ugh, that night was expensive).
(4)
Michelle L.
This past week was my fourth time here. Every time I find the food to be French in the best way. I find the service to be perfect - not hovering but there when you need something. Our server knew the menu well, gave great recommendations on food and wine, and was attentive to the needs of our party. I wish I still lived in the neighborhood so I could go more often, but it makes it special to only go every once in a whIle.
(5)
India K.
I'm no expert of french food BUT I did grow up around New Orleans and lived there for two years. We did a fair share of french and creole dining so I had a reference point going in. FIVE STARS for sweet ambiance with cheery yellow with simple and authentic decor. It is cute! French onion soup- huh? What is all the raving about. I say 2 stars and use it as the basis of the review. If you know french onion soup this will not impress you at all. If you don't know french onion soup then you will be a happy little camper. Coq au vin- dark meat chicken on the bone, served on egg noodles. I disliked the chicken and noodles but LOVED the broth???? Tis true. I ended up sopping up the broth with bread for the meal. Here's a surprise- the margaritas are root-tootin' good---go figure!?!
(2)
Mihir P.
Bistrot Zinc should not participate in restaurant week. The service is sparse and rushed. Except for the bartender who was quite polite while we waited for our seats. The onion soup was standard, nothing special. The steak frite: steak was very thin and tough. Not very flavorful. The frite was more like deep fried potato shavings which were overcooked. No need to come back.
(2)
Marjie T.
For whatever reason, I am always drawn to restaurants with red facades. I don't know why, I just always want to eat there. So, while looking for a restaurant along Rush, I spotted Bistrot Zinc and made reservations for dinner. Even though I made the reservations about 5:30 on a Friday night, there were still plenty available for the same night. We were doing some shopping prior and as we walked by around 6:00, I was shocked to see not a single patron inside. It was completely empty. I began to second guess my choice, but we still went and by the time we went back 30 minutes later there were at least a handful of table occupied. I'm really not sure why this place was so slow. Service was awesome, the food was pretty good, and the ambiance was romantic and classy. I opted for the trout with spinach and it was good, not great. The soup of the day was carrot ginger, which was really good. My mom had the pork and apple stew which she thought was also ok. I don't frequent French restaurants often so I'm not sure how this compares, but I would recommend it.
(4)
Charlie P.
Dinner at Bistrot Zinc tonight was a disappointment. 2 Bistro steaks and pommes frites - what could be easier to deliver on for a French bistro? The pommes frites were just barely warm, rather greasy and both steaks were ordered medium rare, but served well done. Service was indifferent. Nice wine list. Nice room. Spend an extra $5 and take a cab north to Mon Ami Gabi where I've had this same dinner 100 times and have never been disappointed. I will never go back to Bistrot Zinc.
(2)
Maram K.
2 French places in one week? Who'd a thought! Did I just start this review with a number? Bistrot Zinc is very well established in ambiance and service. Normally I don't care about ambiance, but I have to point this out as I'm used to the stuffy feel when dining at French cafes (note Froggy's in highland, it was rank). Coffee was great too. I joked that it reminded me of Vegas' Paris shoppes, but I kind of meant it. And I appreciated that nostalgia. We came here for brunch upon a friend's request as it has the "best quiche" he's ever had. Brunch menu was short and sweet. My fiance got the quiche of the day (mushroom and leeks) and I got the smoked salmon benedict. The benedict was perfect. Eggs poached perfectly, plenty of smoked salmon, and a muffin that you can actually cut through without breaking out the chainsaw. It was hard having to switch plates with my fiance when we both made it halfway through our dishes. But, alas, we did. My fiance's quiche. He lied. He ate more than half! But I understood why. It was incredibly fluffy and rich and the ingredients each stood out on their own. It definitely is up there in quiches I have tasted. Great experience, a bit pricey for brunch, but with that quality of food and service, I shall return.
(4)
Sarah B.
Bistro Zinc has a great, small neighborhood feel even though it's in a high-tourist count area. The French fare gets good marks--especially the French onion soup and steak frites--as does the wine list. Service is consistent and attentive, but no more than you would expect for the area. I'm happy to go back but not sure I'd go out of my way to do so.
(3)
Lauren W.
My little haven... away from the typical Rush Street crowd. I love, love, love coming here. My favorite dish is the quiche of the day. It comes with a petite salad which is the perfect serving amount. Combine that with a nice cup of coffee and there is nothing better for those lazy weekend days.
(5)
Christine M.
If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. The food was really great. LOVED the ham and cheese sandwich. The turkey and brie cheese had a bit too much bread and too little turkey. Everyone at the table thought the 'fries' were 100 times better than the chips that were served with the turkey brie sandwich. Eggs Benedict was also a big hit, along with the spinach and brie crepe (VERY tasty). It's nice that one side of the menu is breakfast and the other is lunch. Desserts - chocolate mousse, chocolate cake with caramel sauce, creme brulee. Creme brulee was absolutely the winner. The chocolate is not as sweet as what I'm used to... The lighting was a bit too bright for my ideal ambiance, but the place was lively on a Sunday at noon. I'm not sure if that's the norm, as we were there on Mother's Day. Service was good, but they weren't overly warm and fuzzy. A 'Happy Mother's Day' with the check would have been nice :) Everyone seemed very happy with the decision to come here, though, and left very satisfied.
(4)
Stephen F.
Dinner and service were fine. I don't have any major complaints, though the pomme frites I ordered never did make it out (we didn't need them anyway). On the other hand, I have no particular raves either. Everything was fine just... not especially distinguished in any way. I see no reason to come back, but no reason to avoid Bistrot Zinc either.
(3)
Julie E.
Just like Frank says: nice and easy. I've enjoyed Bistro Zinc for years. It has a low-key, pretty bistro atmosphere, friendly and prompt service, and a small-ish menu with consistent quality food. My family's favorites: - moules in light cream sauce - authentic flavors and great for bread dripping. - French onion soup: can't go wrong. Almost everyone at the restaurant on a Wednesday evening had a mini crockpot on the table. - great salads and specials. My brother had grilled sardines and braised rabbit stew with egg noodles on a recent visit, and loved both. - great dessert menu. And definitely grab a handful of homemade thin, crispy waffle potato chips from the bar. Good, nice and easy.
I have been a customer of this french cafe for years, and always go 1-2 times year, and always enjoy it. The atmosphere is great, and when you need a French fix, that is authentic, this is it. Can be a tad pricey with wine, but what is not these days, the Sturgeon is very good, mussels are always a treat, and i am sucker for the crepes, streak frites and the salmon...enjoy.
(5)
M R.
My favorite restaurant in the neighborhood. The coziest ambiance and great food with reasonable prices.
(5)
Reb R.
Came here during restaurant week last week. Service is AMAZING! They come to your table when you need them and always helpful with questions you have about the menu. I asked them about this dish on their restaurant week menu and the waiter sold it and I bought it! Amazing dish. Food is delicious. From the french onion soup to the dessert, everything is good. And we ordered 2 bottles of Sauvignon Blanc that the waiter let our guest taste before serving. Definitely worth trying.
(3)
Aurore L.
Where do two French people go for a business lunch?!?!? In a French bistrot, bien sur!! I arrived a little early, attempted an awful parking job in front of the restaurant (with tires loudly scratching the curb), moved the hell out of there to a nice spot a few feet further, ran in and sat down in a little piece of Paris while waiting for my fellow citizen. Bistrot Zinc is really spot on decor-wise...the atmosphere is quite authentic and highly reminiscent of some of the Parisian brasseries I visited in my time - minus the noise and crowd. I started to feel a little home-sick. Watching Bourdain eating wonders in Brittany the same night was not going to help much... It was cold and snowy and I should have known better than to order a salade nicoise. But it sounded damn good, and I didn't want to yield to the highly seductive but dangerous "poulet grand-mere". It would have been ideal though for a nostalgic day and this great concoction of roasted chicken, smoked bacon, potatoes, mushrooms, onions, roasted garlic and garlic-thyme jus would have fed my soul just as much as my body. But no. I had to second-take my plate when I received it to try to figure out if the chef had made a mistake and had placed a big chunk of green papier-mache on my plate. It looked.....unappetizing. I had forgotten that the tuna was 'marinated' in what I can only suppose to be herbs. Weird. Other deception: it wasn't big chunks of tuna. Just....tuna. Green tuna. Potatoes were very scarce: 3 little bites. I had much better salade nicoise, even in Wisconsin. No lie. The steak/frites of my lunch companion did look fine though, as were the profiteroles that we shared for dessert. Yep - we shared dessert on a business lunch....I guess it's the French way. I would probably give it another try if given a chance, but would go for heartier fare next time. And leave my calorie-counting books at home.
(3)
Alicia Y.
I went for dinner to Bistro Zinc, which was pretty good. I wish I could give it a 3.5 star rating but its not quite a 4. Food, service and wine were all good, nothing exceptional. I enjoyed the steak frites I got - i would recommend this spot to others.
(3)
Saira K.
Lovely place. I love French food, and the food here doesn't disappoint (you can't go wrong) - neither does the ambiance - and I enjoyed chatting with my super-cute server (he's really an actor working here part-time and...my friend) and looking at the artwork with him.
(4)
Mark D.
I had another delectable dinner at Bistro Zinc last night. This is my favorite neighborhood restaurant because 1) it's basically outside my front door, and 2) the food is *always* delicious. Tonight my friend and I ordered the escargot BZ to start and it was excellent, as always. I ordered the Vol-au-Vent (Stew du jour in puff pastry, creème fraîche mashed potatoes) and he ordered the Steak au Poivre (Peppercorn crusted New York strip steak with crème fraîche mashed potatoes, haricots verts, cognac-cream sauce). Mine was delicious and perfect for a cold Fall evening. The pastry was light and fluffy, the mashed potatoes were creamy, and the vegetables were fresh. There was a perfect amount of really tender lamb in the stew. My friend said his steak was cooked perfectly. For dessert, my friend ordered the creme brulee which I tried and it was amazing. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (Vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce). I think I may have moaned a few times while I ate it.
(5)
Jennie T.
I came here today with a fellow yelper and friend for brunch. I ordered the potato leek soup (their special of the day) and half the gigot d'agneau (lamb) sandwich. The bread and butter that they served us was delicious. The butter was soft and creamy. I don't like it when the butter is hard-to-spread, so today's butter was really, really good. Loved it. I also always enjoy a freshly squeezed cup of orange juice. I always worry about ordering soup at non-Asian restaurants because I think westerners have a tendency to add milk to soups, and well I'm a bit lactose-intolerant. Our server told me that there's a little bit of cream but not much in the potato leek soup, and he was right. It was very delicious. I'm glad I ordered it as opposed to the french onion soup (my friend got that, and it looked really, really cheesy to me). I've also never had a lamb sandwich before, which is why I ordered it. And to my surprise, it was really good too. The meat was tender and juicy. I really liked the watercress that was in the sandwich too. It was a good combination of ingredients. I was pleasantly surprised. The only thing that I didn't like was the potato chips that came with my order. It tasted a little overdone -- imagine almost burnt fries... I probably ate roughly two chips and decided that I didn't want the rest. And actually, I think it turned out well that I didn't like the chips because my friend and I were both very full after we finished our meal. I definitely felt the need to walk it off a little bit afterwards.
(5)
Jane Z.
The cuisine and atmosphere are authentically French, but the service was authentically Midwestern -- exceptionally hospitable and gracious! The entire staff was very accommodating, suggesting some great architectural and cultural attractions to visit. They treated the two 12 year-old boys I was taking out with courtesy and respect, which the boys were only too happy to return. From the French onion soup and the steak and frites to the salad with scallops and fennel, the food was outstanding -- and the prices were very reasonable!
(5)
Art V.
Made reservation on a Friday night for 9pm. The place was slowly clearing out at about 10 most tables were empty. The weather was perfect which allowed them to open the French doors allowing a breeze and city noise into the restaurant. The bar was still full when we left about 11. There was no push to get us out at the end of our late dinner. I'll let all other reviews inform about how great the food was, frankly I could have cared less I was more interested in finding a laid back environment in which I could share a romantic evening chatting and sipping wine. This place was just what I was looking for and I'd highly recommend it if your looking for an evening like mine.
(5)
Charizard B.
I LOVED Bistrot Zinc!!! The atmosphere was great- nice lighting, soft music playing, and decor that makes me think of a bistro in France. We were seated quickly (it was a Tuesday night) and all the service was prompt and attentive, but not hurrying us along. I got the roasted chicken grand-mere and my friend got the salmon with a balsamic reduction and asparagus. They were both delicious- my chicken had a nice crust and was perfectly moist and flavorful. Our food came out really quickly too. We ordered the chocolate cake for dinner and it was AMAZING. We left extremely full and very very satisfied. Somewhat pricey, but very worth it.
(5)
Reiahnna J.
The outside of the restaurant looks so French. The window to the restaurant is open so you can get a good view of the street. Some women with French hairstyles and clothes were close to the window and made it look really French. We were seated right away. I've been to a French restaurant before (La Sardine) and this food tasted more authentic. If you like sharing, I recommend the Poulet Grand Mère. That's a half-chicken (roasted and grandmother-style), smoked bacon, mushrooms, Parisian potatoes, pearl onions and roasted garlic in a rosemary-garlic jus. Delicious and feeling. To drink, I had some blanc de blanc champagne, but after trying some of my mom's oragina, I wished I ordered that. Refreshing! I've never tried that soda before. I went into the bathroom to see if it was clean and saw that the last bathroom had a vase of flowers. So sweet! Also, are those faucets gold or bronze? I think bronze. But beware, there's a picture of nude women's backsides in the main room. A warning for squirmy Americans...unless that's what you like.
(5)
Nicki W.
Not bad. Came to Zinc tonight with a friend before catching a flick. It's funny, because I lived above the place while I was in college and never dined. Four years later, I decided it was a good idea to come on by. The wine list is pretty good so that's a plus. Since I'm on a health kick I didn't want to indulge too much. I will say, the selection was pretty small and that's never a good thing in my eyes. I like some choices because most of the time I can be pretty indecisive. They had a lovely Zucchini Soup which was very flavorful and I also had the Goat Cheese Salad with Mixed Greens which was great as well. I realize that messing up a salad is hard, but the dressing was fantastic and clearly homemade. My friend on the other hand ordered the steak (which was a mistake). She had asked the waiter if their Medium Rare was true to temperature and he said it was so she decided to order Medium. Needless to say, the steak came out Medium Well and it was a let down. We aren't the type to send things back, so she ate it, but I could tell she wasn't happy. There seemed to be a bit too much fat on the steak and it was pretty "tough". Service was good. The bussers were quick to refill our waters and when clearing the plates. I was quite surprised by how welcoming the place was. I felt cozy and I like that feeling. I'll be back to try some of the other choices on the menu as well as brunch because who doesn't love brunch?
(4)
Aaron B.
Today was the second time I've had the pleasure of eating at Bistrot Zinc. The first time was in the summer of '08 when I dined there with as friend. It was my first time eating escargot (I won't lie, we ordered it for the novelty) and once I was able to block out what it was that I was eating, it was quite delicious! I recall I also had a quiche that day and... well, I'm sure it was a wonderful quiche, but it turns out I'm not a quiche fan; it's a texture thing. Most recently I went back by myself on the day this review was written. I had the lamb sandwich for my entree and the Millas de Bordeaux (a vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce) for dessert. Hopefully I maintained a civilized facade while eating that dessert, but in actuality I was creamin' my pants. Wow. Bot times the service was wonderful; the wait staff is available to answer any questions and they're quick to buss your table when a plate is cleared. For French cuisine that won't break your bank, this is as good as it gets!
(5)
Nikki L.
First of all, I have to say, it's hard finding GOOD French Onion Soup, there have been too many times the soup has been way too salty, not enough flavor or I get melted cheese on top, but luke warm soup in the middle. Needless to say, I was hesitant to order, but decided to just go for it. I was really pleased that not only was my soup piping hot the way I like it, but it wasn't too salty and the onions were nicely caramelized, balancing out the saltiness from the cheese. The salad I had was very standard, nothing fantastic and same with the desserts. The service was a bit snobbish in the beginning, but thankfully he finally warmed up towards the end. I may only come back for the soup, but nothing else.
(3)
Jackie W.
O. M. G. I am just returning from one of the most exquisite meals I've had since I moved to Chicago a year ago. The house-made gnocchi with butternut squash (which I love!) and broccoli rabe actually made me want to shed a tear for such a light, well balanced dish. The only thing better was enjoying it with the bottle of Loire white that washed it down in an experience that can only be defined as true culinary bliss. My more health conscience friend had the grilled pork chop with swiss chard and was in equal foodie-heaven with these bites of perfection. We felt so strongly about our delightful meal that I asked Mark -- our 4 star worthy server -- to send over the manager so I could offer compliments on such an exquisite meal. (Sidebar: I asked Mark for a recommendation on both my entree & the dessert and he did an exceptional job!) Michael, one of the owners, came over right away and started discussing the preparation of our dishes and how they actually paired really well together! Of course, that meant that we started creating blissful bites by combining the cloud-like gnocchi with the tender pork. Ahhhh... such a delight! Finally, to make it even better, I asked for any dessert they would recommend and ended up with the bliss of the Millas de Bordeaux ~ heavenly phyllo dough with cherry vanilla custard. Y U M!!! My friend, who typically avoids dessert & all things sweet, was in foodie heaven right along with me upon enjoying this divine pasty. Overall, I was impressed with the menu, the knowledge of the server & friendliness of the owner, and the hands down phenomenal dance that happened directly on my taste buds tonight. I will definitely be back. Perhaps again this week. If only my time at the gym will be able to neutralize my new decadent treat. So flipping good... I'm still in foodie afterglow. :-)
(5)
Andy R.
Great food, great ambiance - I laughed at the guy who wrote he didn't like the floor. And the bar is made of zinc, how cool.
(5)
Greg M.
Quality food. Don't be tempted by the basket of yummy appetizers! Save room for the main course which is so yummy, really a cute quiet place to catch up with friends!
(5)
Vivian Y.
Enjoyed a nice brunch here - great for kids (there was a baby in our group) because there isn't a whole lot of noise and people. I really enjoyed the chicken and mushroom crepe - so good and so rich! husband has the eggs benedict - great sauce but portion was quite small for Chicago standards. If you're looking for a place in the tourist district, I can recommend this place! Will be back for dinner sometime!
(4)
Hillary L.
Sometimes you need to treat yourself- especially when you have a crepe craving. And your Chicago Plus Card jumped out of your pocket somewhere on a bus. And someone used it so you had to cancel it... AND the new one still hasn't arrived 5-7 days later. Tuesday was one of those days, and I had been eying Bistro Zinc each time I go up and down State. I think the fact that is was easy walking distance finalized the decision. I decided to sit at the bar, and Jon was very attentive, filling my water up at least 20 times because those glasses are so ridiculously small. What started out as just ordering the spinach and brie crepe (good, but too thin of a consistency for me) turned into a "I'm going to treat myself to whatever I want." So I also ordered the soup of the day (mushroom, very good and homemade, perfect consistency), a glass of red wine (Jon helped me decide, he also poured me a little bit more when I was running low and didn't charge me), and chocolate mousse (ok but I've had, and made, better). I left in a much, much better mood than when I came in. Jon the bartender was fantastic, noticing when I didn't want to chat and when I did. It seemed like two or three regulars trickled in while I was eating dinner, and he knew what to pour them and suggested what they might like to try next on the menu. Overall a fantastic experience, the crepe was a bit disappointing, which was my main reason for coming in, but I would definitely come back and try more from the menu... hopefully with my Chicago Plus Card in hand.
(4)
Gabby H.
This is standard bistro fare: good selection of wine, all the French basics, above average preparation. I'm never disappointed in Bistro Zinc but I never leave thinking, "Now, that was a great meal!". And, honestly, I think that's fine. Bistrot Zinc wouldn't be out of place on a quiet side street in Paris.
(3)
James J.
Dear Zinc, Good french brunch food in the viagra triangle. I'm a sucker for a good crepe and I found one this morning! The staff seems like they are well put together and ready for a full house. It's always nice when a restaurant's environment feels clean and organized. The OJ is totally home-made fresh squeezed and our waiter assured us that everything is home-made and fresh prepared. Four stars because I wanted a few more menu items. Some places pull off a small selection for brunch, this place needs a bit more... -Jimmy J
(4)
I Love Good Foo D.
Service was okay, they can make it better by smiling when they serve. We were at this place for breakfast. We ord ered lamb sandwich- amazing, quiche that the server recommended - my friend loved it and french toast - little too sweet for my taste, but still amazing. Portion sizes look tiny but its pretty filling. I would go back maybe every few months. Its worth a try. Oh and the potato fries were amazing.
(3)
Matthew M.
We stumbled past this place while bar hopping and decided to give it a shot. DC and I both love French food, so this was a no-brainer. The decor is very Parisian and authentic. I nearly said "merci" to the man who held the door for us on our way in. The food was delicious. I ordered an item not explicitly on the menu, and they made it no problem. The portions were huge, both what we ordered and what we saw others eating. The cuisine and atmosphere were so authentic that I momentarily thought we were in Paris until i looked out the window and saw a Barnes and Noble. I'm only giving BZ four stars because despite my glowing review, the food i ordered was pretty simple. When I get the opportunity to try other items on the menu that are more complex than grilled cheese, I will certainly add the final star.
(4)
Tomas H.
Service is key to me - 2nd to food... We had a late lunch... Pate plate to start... Great atmosphere, music... Food runner had absolutely no personality & was rude, for example, when I asked what the different cheeses were, he looked at me, shook his head, said he didn't know and I would have to ask our server & walked away! Our server was short at first but when the Manager showed up on the floor, his tune changed and was friendlier. The water glass went empty for awhile but at least the food was good. I might return but next time, I will call the management to request better service before I make my reservation.
(2)
Nancy H.
Hate to be a downer, but everything except the food is great. I went for my first time and ordered the steak frites (steak + fries) because it was pictured on their $25 coupon and because the word "frites" just tickles me. Disappointingly, it tasted like yesterday's impromptu BBQ leftovers. My dad cooks a much meaner steak than that. Perhaps French people like their steaks thin and dry with just a pat of seasoned melted butter? My friend ordered the salmon with mushrooms and turnip "mashed potatoes," which wasn't appetizing either. On the other hand, the appetizer mussels in a buttery broth were delish! They were plump and clean. Entrees range anywhere from $14-24 which is a fair price to pay for what you think would be stuffy food. On the upside, the atmosphere at Bistrot Zinc is just perfect for any intimate setting. The lighting is dim, the window up front opens up to the sidewalkers on State Street, and the tile floors make you feel like you're in a hole-in-the-wall local diner in France. The service here is also superb; we didn't have to ask for a single thing. And best of all, they let a party of old friends stay till 11 PM without rushing us.
(3)
Shelley A. D.
We took the kids to celebrate Father's Day. Just like our last visit-- the staff was incredibly attentive and polished that made us feel special but not overly formal. The food was outstanding. The pacing of the meal and service was perfect. I suspect we will be returning again and again. Thank you Bistro Zinc!
(4)
Steven M.
Met some friends here for lunch on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. All the restaurants in the Viagra Triangle were overflowing with people. Half a block north and this place had a hand full of patrons. So we walked in and the guy scanned me from head to toe, I knew immediately what I was in for. Fickle queens with an attitude! The place is not that big so when he walked us to the back of the restaurant I thought that we were going into the kitchen. There were plenty of empty 4 bangers in the front by the windows as well as on the way to our table. I did not say a word because I did not want to ruin the day for everyone else. But it did piss me off when they seated couples at a table for 4. And when our friends arrived they asked if we requested to be seated in the alley? That is why I took off two stars. On to the food. I had the nicoise salade, which consisted of marinated tuna, potatos, hard boiled eggs, white anchovys and tomatos in a lemon vinaigrette. It was delicious and I would recommend it to anyone. The service was great also. But there is a reason the restaurant was empty. I can't imagine having this person greeting my customers by checking them out prior to seating them. Grow up and have some respect so they just might come back.
(3)
Autumn O.
Here's the scoop of the century: If you don't know GOOD food, this is your kind of place. I know good food, and therefore this is not my kind of place. The fiance and I were wandering downtown on a random and lovely snowy evening after work. "EEGADS" says he... "KRIMENY" says I... Then in unison: "I'M HUNGRY"! We wandered here and there and all around the square, eventually stumbling into Bistrot Zinc as the sleet began to fall. One decent (of course overpriced) bottle of wine, a shared entree of pan seared trout with caper sauce and sauteed spinach as well as a large bowl of parsnip soup later, we found ourselves rolling our eyes. This was mostly at the patrons of the establishment who seemed to be completely won over by the fancy words on the menu and the kitchy "French" styled interior. Clearly most of the people who frequent the Bistrot are not exactly foodies, and thus are certain to be dazzled with the overpriced and underspiced fare. What's not to love (roll of the eyes please) about small-ish portions, relatively bland dishes of food and poor spacing between tables all for a price that you can bet-yer-bottom-dollar you'll be wishing you hadn't paid later? This sounds harsh but that is that. Sub par excellence, monsieur. Adieu.
(2)
Bonnie A.
I came here for Valentine's Day, It has a very romantic ambiance. The service was good and the food was delicious. I had calf liver and it has a very unique taste and texture. At the first bite, the texture was similar to steak but then it became more of gelatinous. We had almond buttered cake with macerated berries. It was really good.
(5)
Ellen S.
I have been coming to this place for over 10 years. I can't believe I haven't written a review yet. I was very disappointed when the Lakeview location closed. This place is great. Some of the dishes don't really sound that good but they are. My favorite is the white anchovy salad with grilled chicken. Also, the French toast is the best on earth. They also have the best chocolate mousse anywhere. I am not usually a big chocolate mousse person but this one is perfect. Not heavy, not bitter, the perfect amount and texture.
(5)
Maureen F.
A great introduction to French bistro fare. Of the few times I've been here, everything has been outstanding. The moules mariniere is perfect. Our waiter was totally gracious the one night when we just ordered that for two with a bottle of wine but for this night we also got two entrees. My partner had the steak frites, nearly licking the plate once he was done. I had the vol au vent en croûte, the stew that night being a red wine veal stew which was phenomenal -- earthy but not too reliant on beef stock for the flavor. The meat just melted which was perfectly paired with flaky puff pastry and creme fraiche mashed potatoes. The dessert is really why I keep coming back. Everything is wonderful. The millas de bordeaux seems small but it packs a punch without being too sweet with excessive caramel sauce. The gateau au chocolat is pure decadence. I've had dreams of this dense and fudgey cake.
(4)
Lauren M.
As a current Evanston resident, I'm not very familiar with the Gold Coast area. However a lovely Sunday brunch with an out-of-town friend and a recommendation from a random stranger brought me to Bistrot Zinc. As soon as you walk in the door you know you are in for an experience. Not only does the decor take you away to a Parisian bistrot, but so does the food. I would highly recommend the potato-fennel soup combined with a half-sized apple sandwich. A tasty blend perfect for a chilly autumn day. I can't wait to go back and try some of the other menu items that sounded so good. It was definitely hard to decide what to get.
(5)
Ingrid G.
I am in love with this place. Everything I've tried here has been a home run. The eggs benedict with smoked salmon is ORGASMIC (yep, in all caps) as is the lamb sandwich. I loved the bacon and leek quiche. Their crepes are great as well, and I'm snooty about crepes. Prices are reasonable for high-quality food. I'll be back. /Schwarzenegger
(5)
V C.
People have said it before and I agree - charming. relaxing ambience. Somewhat out of place in Rush but I'm glad it's there. The service here is always top notch, the food I've had is invariably rich in taste, and I've never had to wait long even on weekends. The peppercorn steak is an old faithful and is probably the best thing I've had. The stuffed chicken that's on this month's specials is a light and flavorful dish, served in a broth that made me keep reaching for the bread to soak it all up. The hanger steak, which is a filet sliced thin, is also quite good. Despite the cozy neighborhood bistro feel, the prices are a little high (this is Rush after all). Expect to pay 50 per person for dinner.
(4)
Kate S.
J'aime bien ce restaurant! I have been here a few times for brunch and love everything about it. The atmosphere, the decor, the music, the coffee, the fabulous french toast with fresh berries and cream, and stellar mimosas. I've never had to wait for a table, but the window seats are always taken... and in the summer they open up those windows which is lovely. You can't go wrong here! Everything is magnifique!
(5)
Dr. J.
Our favorite french bistrot in Chicago for brunch! Lovely atmosphere, great service, marvelous food!
(5)
Caroline M.
Very nice ambiance for romantic dinners and small group reunions, staff was friendly and helpful, and food tasted really good.
(4)
Miss M.
I went to Bistro Zinc with my boyfriend on a Friday night. It was my first time trying French cuisine. Bistro Zinc is like a cutsie cafe and it is very laid back. Most patrons are older Gold Coast couples and groups and tourists. I think my boyfriend and I were the only people there under the ages of 45 :) but, their food was really good and I would totally go back. Their French onion soup was awesome and probably the best I ever had (REAL French onion soup, not the fake stuff!). For dinner I had a baked chicken entree with potatoes and mushrooms and it was really tasty. The dessert was the best party. It was an almond cake with fresh creme and fresh berries. It was the best dessert I had ever had. My boyfriend had the banana nutella crepe which was also heavenly. My only major complaint was that my butt hurt from the chair I was sitting in. I wish it had more padding. Otherwise the dining experience was great and the food was very tasty.
(4)
Amy H.
Such a gem!! I just came back from lunch at Bistro Zinc and I can't wait to go back. The atmosphere is so nice...fancy but not stuffy or snobby. The food was amazing! I could make a meal out of the escargot. I had an amazing half sandwich with some french onion soup. Deeeeelish! The dessert menu was confusing because I didn't know what to pick. I decided on the nutella and banana crepe, which was devine. The staff was super friendly and attentive without being pushy. They really seemed to enjoy working there and serving the food. I can't wait to go back to Bistro Zinc and I plan on taking everyone that I know there.
(5)
Dardo S.
Excellent foie gras... Real Onion soup
(4)
Heidi H.
Once again, you have led me in the right direction when looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a great meal! My college roommate, Kelly, decided that she was going to visit me during spring break (YAY!!!!) and I needed to find the perfect place for a nice dinner before we went to the theater to see Mary Poppins. I was at a lost because I rarely eat downtown, so came to Yelp for help! Bistrot Zinc was perfect for what I wanted... beautiful ambiance, great food, and something completely different than what she could get in Bloomington, MN. We got it all here and more. I started with the best French onion soup that I have ever had in my entire life and I would go back just for that. For my entree I enjoyed a stew with puff pastry that was rich, hearty, and wonderful. Bistrot Zinc was just the right place to catch up with my girlfriend over incredible French food and a bottle of Savignon Blanc. I just hope that I can have the chance to come back again soon, especially to enjoy the windows open!
(5)
Mag N.
i've only tried items off the lunch menu. what i've had i certainly enjoyed. however, the bread can be a little rough...and the time has always been off -- not very consistent, sometimes slow service, sometimes not so much.
(3)
Tara M.
I have walked by Bistrot Zinc hundreds of times (and stared it straight in the face every time I walk out of Anthropogie after spending a small fortune) but didn't really know anything about it. Today I was lucky enough to have a fabulous late, long and wine-tastic Parisian-style lunch here with Dennis S., Colleen C. and Paige W. We started with a traditional charcuterie plate (delicious) and amazing goat cheese souffle with a sun-dried tomato tapenade. I am not a lover of goat cheese (unless it comes from the milk of the goats I stole from Krsna V.), but this was one of the best things I've tasted in a long time. It should be noted that the souffle is only on the dinner menu but lucky for us Dennis knew to order it. For my entree, I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, which was a leg and breast of chicken on the bone in a broth with mushrooms, potatoes, onions and tons of garlic. The bones did make it a bit difficult to eat but the chicken was well seasoned and tender and the accompanying vegetables were great! By the time dessert came around, 2 (maybe 3) bottles of wine had been consumed and we decided to pass our desserts around so that we could try them all. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (cherry & vanilla custard in a pastry with cream and caramel and dried cherries). I was also able to sample the Profiteroles (amazing), fresh berries with mascarpone (fresh and delicious) and the chocolate crepe (good but too much chocolate for this girl). BZ is a very bright and open space and the bathrooms were perhaps the cleanest public restrooms I've ever seen. Our waiter, whom I chose to call Guillaume (totally not his name--I believe it was Nicholas) made good recommendations, was properly attentive and put up with our giving him a hard time and being generally full of wine on a Friday afternoon. He also comped dessert drinks for us ladies. A wonderful experience with three great Yelpers and delicious food in a cute and bright atmosphere. I can't think of a better way to spend a warm, sunny Friday afternoon! Oh, and an honorary sixth star for the fact that I actually had two different glasses of wine in front of me at one point. I may just move to France.
(5)
Chris B.
Visted this charming little restaurant today, with and old friend. She had the Eggs Benedict w/ salmon! I tried a burger w/ pomme frites. My friend thought her eggs were a little cooler than she wanted and our outstanding server, Jeff, whisked it away and returned with a new order, before we could say, "Excellent service!" The meal was delicious! The bill was generous! The decor and ambiance were appopriately Francophilic. Visit Bistrot Zinc, mon ami!
(5)
Janet X.
This was a really cute restaurant. Came here with one of my friends who is leaving me to go to Paris next year, and I was very pleasantly surprised. There was none of the snobbishness of other French restaurants, the space was airy, bright and clean, with just the right touch of whimsy, and the food was delicious. I had the crepes with mushroom and chicken, which was very good, but when my friend's eggs benedict arrived I wished I got that instead!
(4)
Jeff N.
We are big fans of Kiki's in River North, but found this great french bistro to offer many of the same qualities that make dining so great. Great service, very tasty food. We love the Mussels here!. And the service was outstanding. Highly recommend this State Street gem.
(4)
Sian C.
My favourite everyday French bistro in the city. The steak frites is very good and my husband had the croque Monsieur and lived it
(4)
Nancy P.
What a charming French restaurant ! I really enjoyed the neighborhood feel, ambiance and the warm welcome from the staff. It was my first visit, and I was impressed with the flavors of the entrees (and my dining companions) . We all loved the place!
(5)
Johnny R.
We all have three lists of restaurants in our heads.... 1) Perfect 2) I'd eat there again, but there are five other places I'd rather go 3) No good Bistrot Zinc is in the #1 category for me. We went there for Valentines, and have been there before. It was perfect. The ambience is perfect, and the food, and service... perfect. I've had the coq au vin which was very good, but have also had the specials. This past visit I had a steak special that was very good. Their sauces tend to be very well executed, and for a sauce maker like me, their food inspires rather than disappoints. It's also a classy restaurant. When I've eaten there, I've not had boorish guys talking on their phones annoying everyone by talking about some lame movie they just saw or that they sold ten cars that day. Instead you have locals and tourists, all of whom comport themselves well, and are nicely dressed. I'd like to go again and try other things on their menu when time allows. If I was going to search for a negative, and believe I have to really think about it, I'd say they play it safe with their entrees. That's really not much of a negative but that's all I can think of.
(5)
Maya H.
When did the trend of casual french dining start popping up everywhere? not that I'm complaining of course. Escargot were delish and had the compulsory blend of herbs, butter and garlic coating each little body. The creatures hemselves were gigantic...do you think we started pumping farmed escargot full of growth hormones as well? At this size I woudln't doubt it. Lamb sandwich had thick slices of real lamb with a slathered aoili to die for. Nice bite and the sweet slices of toasted white bread didnt fight for attention from the lamb. Pomme frites were a nice side and completely edible.
(3)
Jacqueline S.
I love any French place to be honest, because I just love the culture (art, and films) so I love to spend as many afternoons as I can dreaming of the south of France. (If you've been you will understand why!) Anyways, the food is pretty decent, it's not my favorite though. I recommend their quiche specials of the day though if you like that or the ratatouille crepes. Their desserts are really good, and the service I experienced here was (sorry!) better than what I experienced at Bistrot Margot. Although, I went here during the down time between lunch and dinner and I was pretty much the only person in the place. So, probably is a good judge of actual service that you would receive on say a Friday night. Anyways, love the music they play, and much about this place. Have not been disappointed yet.
(4)
marc-paul l.
So disappointing! I've walked past this place dozens of times and it looks so charming from the outside. Last Sunday afternoon my gf and I were looking for somewhere different to eat so I suggested BZ. All I wanted was a croque monsieur sandwich, nothing fancy. My gf ordered soup and sandwich combo, lamb and onion soup. The waiter said that was an "awesome" choice. He said nothing about my CM. When it arrived I could see why. The whole thing was soggy as if left under a lid for too long. It was like holding a wet sponge. The pommes frites were equally limp. Steak'n'Shake has better fries, whoops, I mean frites. On the plus side my gf's lamb sandwich was delicious and she enjoyed it a great deal. As for the onion soup, I thought it was barely edible since it was so salty and had too strong a flavor of beef broth. I'm said to say I won't be returning. The search continues for a good French bistro.
(2)
Jims L.
I don't know - I wasn't impressed, I wasn't anything, not with the decor, the food, the service, the ambiance. Cute place for brunch.
(3)
Insun M.
Pros: - Mussel appetizer: top 2 mussel plates I've ever had. Big flavorful mussels cooked just right in an amazing sauce that was perfect for dipping the crusty bread - Big portions. I hate leaving food on my plate but I was too full to finish. Cons: - The french onion soup was just ok. I love salty foods but the soup was too salty for even my taste buds. - My lamb sandwich was way too messy to eat. The lamb slices were sliced pretty thick so it was hard to keep clean with sauce, lamb, and bread crumbs all over my hands. - The chips that came with the sandwich shouldn't be called chips. They were not crispy at all but instead kind of chewy like it was taken out of the fryer too soon. Needless to say nobody at my table ate more than 1 "chip." - Service was at a bare minimum. We were never asked if we needed anything or if we enjoyed our meals but instead we had to try our best to flag our waitor down for more bread, check, etc. It could have just been our waitor though because the server for the table next to us was very friendly and accomodating to them. I'd give Bistrot Zinc another shot but for their dinner menu..and come back for the mussels!
(3)
Luis E.
Excellent french rest. Just like eating in Paris!
(5)
Dianna R.
Christmas Eve dinner out. Problem #1, you dine at a place that is so packed you think Santa my jump out of your a**. Problem #2, you dine at a place so empty EVERY waiter is staring at you so closely they could either spoon feed you your meal or rip out your eyeballs b/c they have a family too and frankly would rather tuck their kids in at night then watch your cholesterol go up a couple of points.... Happily I am proud to say that Bistro Zinc suffers from neither problem. My sister's ever-so-clever sister-in-law made a reservation for 9 on Christmas Eve for dinner here. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience. The atmosphere was lively and festive, not stuffy at all. My pino blanc was tasty as was the butternut squash risotto I split as an appetizer. My ratatouille crepe was divine and hit the spot (extra points for the goat cheese). Finally, I tried multiple desserts and they were all delightful! The only negative I could possibly say was they sat us at a long rectangular table, which wasn't as conversation friendly as say a nice big ole round table. Overall, great service, great food, Amazing and memorable Christmas Eve dinner! 5 STARS :)
(4)
Whitney G.
The best onion soup I've ever had. Not salty at all. We also got the escargot as a mistake, but it was also really really good! The best part was the crepe au poulet. Probably the best crepe I've ever had. It had a sherry cream sauce that was to die for, and the chicken was tender and moist. Perfect! Make sure you bypass all those other swinging restaurants on N State and come to this one. You won't regret it.
(5)
Brett O.
I stopped in here just due to a Groupon Now feature that they were running. Decided I should check it out since I am out of town from Seattle and yep, good choice. The wait staff is extremely well versed in the menu and how the dishes are prepared. I liked the fact that I could talk with them about the ingredients and get great recommendations. Food was very good. I had the stew of the day which was beef with a red wine gravy. The beef was fork tender and very flavorful. I would have liked just a little more robust flavor for the sauce, but the veggies were cooked perfect, not too soft like what can happen with stew. The mashed potatoes were well seasoned and the puff pastry was added for visual. Great dish overall though. I would recommend this place to any local in Chicago, or anybody visiting.
(4)
S. H.
Having been to Paris many, many times I was a bit skeptical about this French restaurant. It met my highest expectations. A most authentic experience. The atmosphere is romantic and delightful. The food was excellent. My husband's steak frites was perfectly cooked, and my beef and tomato Vol a Vent was the best stew I've ever had. Kept the left-overs for 2 days (in a cooler) and ate them when I returned home--1,000 miles away.
(5)
Dija S.
We loved this place so much we went back the next night. We sat at the bar and the service was wonderful. The bartender was funny, engaging and attentive. The atmosphere is very accessible, and so is the cuisine and the price. Appetizers range from 6-12 and I don't think I saw a dinner item that was over 25 (but don't quote me). I felt like this was the kind of place where you could really tailor your meal to be as expensive or as economical as you would like, and the wine list had breadth and depth in the range of options available. The first night, I had the tagine de legumes and my husband had the croque monsieur - very different dishes and both done perfectly. The next night, we shared the mussels which were prepared in a white wine sauce. Actually, we devoured the mussels because they were so good, and they give you this crusty french bread to shamelessly soak up the delicious white whine sauce. Yummmm.
(4)
Kirsten A.
This place is a gem in the Gold Coast. Cute, grown up decor in bright reds makes you want to sit all day. The wait staff is mature, professional, and perfectly attentive, and the food was delish. I had a yummy ham and cheese sandwich that was toasted on the outside with a french toast like quality and super yummy sorbet for dessert. The frites were a little wimpy, but that was my only complaint. Bistroit Zinc is the perfect spot for any business lunch! We came at noon and it was pleasantly empty and perfect for chatting.
(4)
Sara F.
I love this place for Sunday brunch. The food is solid, but that is not really why you come here. You can get an equally delicious brunch at LuxBar, Tavern, Yolk, etc. You come here for the quaint French cafe atmosphere. It is the perfect start to the last day of the weekend. The Croque Monsier is yummy, as is the burger with blue cheese. The Millas de Bordeaux (vanilla-cherry custard in pastry with caramel sauce) is awesome as a brunch dessert with a cup of hot coffee because it is a pastry, and therefore feels appropriate pre-noon. :) Warning: I am a huge Bloody Mary fan, but the Bloody Mary here tastes like shrimp cocktail sauce. FOR REAL. I told them this, and they replaced my drink with a glass of refreshing glass of Pinot Blanc, which was much appreciated.
(4)
Jasper N.
Great location, great prices, and pretty good food and service. If you are looking for a casual parisian lunch or dinner, this is your spot. There is a mix of people, including Gold Coasters, shoppers, families, etc. This is definitely on my short list of places to eat when I'm in the area, and worth checking out.
(4)
Ke M.
Came here for restaurant week so I feel it's hard to gauge what it would be like on a normal night. We were seated right away with our reservation and the server was attentive and made great wine recommendations. The food was flavorful and good. The portions were just right so that I felt full without over indulging or needing to box the leftovers. Not a ton of options but I think they know what they do best and stick to that. It was a bit loud but I'm sure it's because it was a Friday night during restaurant week. Worth trying out, but not my all time favorite french restaurant.
(3)
Marie B.
August 19 -- I've amended my review. In July, I rated this restaurant 4 stars because the service and food were fab. Now, I'd like to give them a negative 5! Not just because the food was horrible and the service even more so, but also because from my past experience, I KNOW they can do better! We had brunch here and were sorely disappointed. The omelette was the worst I have ever seen! Dry, no fillings, tasteless. ICK! Everything was a big disappointment. Another yelp-er says people in the food and bev industry hate "brunch", obviously the staff at Bistrot Zinc fall in this category. But, you know what...if you hate brunch...don't open! Save everyone from the expensive disappointment we had today!! Two words: Tres Bon! This place is absolutely wonderful. Cozy, but not small or claustrophic, charmingly decorated and the service is the best I've had since moving to Chicago. Case in point, I made reservations for six (6) this past Friday. We arrived (30 minutes late) and our reservation had been given to someone else -- that, plus they thought we were a part of two. Thus, we had to wait a bit (no more than 15 minutes) for them to prepare a table. Not an issue in my world, but apparently it was in theirs! They provided not one, but THREE, complimentary appeitzers by way of apology!? As for the wait staff, they were friendly and attentive, but did not hover. Oh, and the food. Divine. The wine...great choices and not terribly expensive. In short. A very good restaurant.
(1)
Brad B.
I dined at bistro zinc recently, in an effort to expand my universe of french food (which is already considerable). Two words: NO DUCK. What sort of french place doesn't have SOME sort of duck on the menu? Merde alors! So, I went with the old reliable. Steak frites. It was quite enjoyable. The atmosphere is cool, cozy and totally what the doctor ordered. The wine list was not daunting but offered a few interesting options including a lovely Vouvray (a bit sweet but, still good). I can't believe I didn't have the nutella bananna crepe but, I went for the chocolate cake instead and wasn't disappointed, one bit. I'm Brad B and I approve Bistro Zinc. hehehe Update: Hit Bistro Zinc for a brunch thing this past weekend and it was utterly brilliant. Strong coffee (reminded me of Paris). Omlette served with salad, as it was meant to be. Lovely.
(4)
Linnea L.
We stopped in for a drink Saturday night and thought the staff was so nice we came back for brunch on Sunday. it was delicious (roasted veggie quiche especially). Good coffee, too. Staff is very friendly, place has a nice vibe. Will definitely come back.
(4)
Eric M.
I really can't think of anything to knock Bistro Zinc for. For what they're aiming to be - a French bistro restaurant - they're pretty much spot on. I've been going here for about eight years now and they've be exceptionally consistent. I consider this to be one of my "comfort food" spots, where I can go when I just want good food with good service in a nice environment. It's moderately priced - you can spend a lot if you want to, but you don't have to. It's casual - some people wear suits, but I'm just as comfortable there in jeans. It's good for groups, couples or for solo dining. The steak frites are very good - the fries are perfect, the herb butter is great on the steak, which is always perfectly cooked. I also order the poulet grand mere frequently, which is awesome - crispy skinned chicken, with potatoes and pearl onions and bits of bacon. Their specials list at dinner has nice seasonal fare, too. I think that changes monthly. The wines by the glass pair well with the food - they're maybe a tad pricey, but not too bad. Finally, the desserts are great, too. I love the creme brulee "BZ" and the crepe a la banane et nutella best, but really all of their desserts are wonderful. This isn't Everest or Cite, but it doesn't aim to be. I give them five stars for hitting the center of the target they've aimed for.
(5)
Lara M.
I really wanted to love this place, but my first experience there was only ok. I still really want to love this place so I'll probably try again. Was there for brunch and ordered... 1. ham and gruyere omlette - tasty but nothing special. 2. Banana and nutella crepe - seriously not sure how this could be bad. but by this point I had filled up on too much medicore omlette to really be able to enjoy. perhaps next time ill come back just for the crepe.
We had Sunday lunch here. At 11:30 it was full but not crowded. The menu was varied and everything looked yummy. The service was very good. The tables are kind of close together, but that was minor. I had the salmon quiche which was delicious, very light and fluffy. My partner had the turkey sandwich which was also very good, but with some waffle potato chips that were a little overcooked. The soup of the day was curried cauliflower. We didn't have it, but it sounded great. We are only here for three days, but will go back if we can.
(4)
Noah L.
Love the decor and ambiance. So wish the food was better.
(2)
Eric B.
Last Friday Kelly and I made our second trip to Bistrot Zinc, on what would seem to be an annual event. Our first experience here was the summer of 2007, and it was a delightful time, with a warm, playful decor, filling charcuterie, succulent venison medallions, and a superb gigondas from the reserve list. . . . Nostalgia, however, can be a cruel, cruel mistress. Which isn't to say the second time around was a total let down. The decor, ambience, and service remain superb. Bistrot Zinc has a classic layout, with wicker chair enveloped tables in the front, a gorgeous zinc bar in the center, and a cozy yet uncrowded back room with standard tables and banquettes, touched off with a multi-colored tiled floor, bright but not glaring yellow walls, and vintage prints, all of which take you out of the hustle and bustle of the Viagra Triangle waiting outside. We were not, however, rewarded in our food choices. The French onion soup was disappointingly bland, and the escargot did not taste fresh, at all -- it reminded me of frozen escargot I purchased at Paulina Meat Market. Dinner was similarly disappointing. I had the chicken grandmother style, while Kelly had the grilled poussin -- the baby chicken. My chicken was tough, and while the dish had a wonderful smoky flavor from the bacon, I was surprised at how brothy it was -- the dish advertised rosemary garlic jus, but I expected a better balance with the Parisian potatoes, resulting in a ragout. Instead I got a large soup. Kelly's dish was similarly disappointing, but mostly from lack of flavor. In retrospect, I'm not sure exactly why I went with chicken -- I was probably recalling fond memories of the cornish hen at Kiki's Bistro, which is tender juicy and flavorful. Next time, I will go more conventional bistro and get the lamb pork and duck cassoulet. After all, when in doubt at a French restaurant, go with game. The dinner was not a total loss however, because our dessert -- the apple tart -- was superb. Additionally, they have a fine, if albeit short, wine list with a very affordable negociant Chateauneuf du Pape. So why do I give it three stars? In large part because of my first trip, where the specials were more adventurous (i.e. venison), and because they had a few special reserve bottles, which were not that expensive as far as reserve bottles go. I hope this is a reflection of the tough market restaurants are currently going through, and that when we return for the cassoulet, we are rewarded with our persistence. Regardless, if you are in the neighborhood and want a moment of European respite, you can do much worse than stopping in for at least an apertif and appetizer at the bar.
(3)
Sonja S.
As good as it gets being a relative measurement - I am giving Zinc Bistrot a full 5 stars based on factors relative to the myriad of other "French Bistrot - like" restaurants that I have dined at over the last 9 months. Fathers day was particularly poignant for me , for a number of reasons that I shall not dwell upon in this review. So I wanted to honor my Pop, who is far away from here, by doing it up right with Auntie Fab - a true Francophile and a recent returnee from an extended trip to Paris. I loved the restaurant's ambiance - while others have dismissed it as "cheesy" , I have been to Paris a number of times and found the restaurant both authentic and charming. Is there anything better when one is dressed for a fancy brunch and ones hair is behaving, to be seated by an open window between two tables of handsome men? To be quickly attended to with water and menus, to be promptly given delicious coffee and cold rose wine (which we asked for errr - let me not mislead you with a false magnanimous gesture) The menu was very french and I dithered mightily before deciding on the pan fried trout with scrambled eggs and potatoes. The trout was cooked so beautifully it almost made me weep with gratitude, the eggs fluffy and golden yellow ( real eggs! REAL EGGS! That even tasted like ....EGGS) Auntie Fab had the Chicken Crepes - also delish. Never rushed we ambled through our Brunch chatting and toasted Fathers far and near, alternating between people watching and chatting - the restaurant was PACKED. yet our service remained attentive and professional. We wound up our meals with desert, I had a chocolate cake that I had to take away from myself before inhaling the plate accidentally. SO GOOD!!!! So what could have been a sad and depressing day was transformed by a charming atmosphere, professional service and a perfect brunch. If that doesn't deserve 5 stars I don't know what does.
(5)
John M.
Excellent menu selections, great attentive servers. Nice dining experience, just a little too noisy.
(4)
Unity O.
Just tried this place after a friend expressed a desire to try it out & have to say I am glad she did. Some friends & I decided to give this place a try for brunch on Sunday & I have to say it was great. We were seated right away, by a very friendly hostess. I was impressed with the warm atmosphere--since it was a beautiful day they had their front windows open & lots of light was streaming in. Being a brunch outing my 1st order of concern was getting COFFEE & I not disappointed--it was quite good (my only complaint is that the cups are tiny). Their menu while not huge--did have lots of variety. I ordered the chicken & mushroom crepes on the recomendation of the waitress & was pleased with the portion size and the taste/flavors. my only regret is that I had no room for dessert--sigh! One more reason to just go back though.
(4)
Erica K.
I had a fantastic lunch here with my friend Laura. We went to an early movie and were starving and just dropped in at about 1 on a Sunday. Our server was attentive but not obnoxious. And I know this is going to sound funny, but this place exudes good manners. It's totally polite and charming. And the food was great. I had a cup of white bean, fennel soup with half of an apple and guyerre sandwich. The bread on the sandwich was toasted brioche and the cheese was melty and savory. The apples were green and crisp and provided perfect contrast and texture. The soup was well seasoned and subtle. I really enjoyed the whole experience and will be back again.
(4)
Mac P.
Two stars for this restaurant, not because it was bad ... the food was OK but quite unmemorable. That's why I am typing this review ASAP because otherwise I may forget I ever ate here. The one thing I won't forget though is the bill, not outrageous but clearly not as cheap as the food (steak au poivre = quite boring, chevre salad = just OK). If you are looking for a French restaurant in Chicago, please don't go here, plenty of other places in the same price range that have much better food.
(2)
Arielle S.
First off let me say that I went here for the escargot which was totally worth it! And the atmosphere and decor was also very Parisian Bistrot/ Brasserie and the wine the waitress selected was also very good. However, I was disappointed in the Coq Au Vin I ate- I wish I sent it back. And there didn't seem to be a lot of other main dishes that I was interested in or reasonably priced for what they were. I will be back because of the location, service and escargot but I hope to find a main dish that I enjoy.
(3)
Andrea R.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc for brunch a few months ago, and it was great. Went again this past weekend for dinner, and it was even better. Highly recommend the chicken and mushroom crepe. At $10, it's filling and full of flavor (read: lots and lots of cream). Not exactly the healthiest of fare, but for a treat, it's totally worth it.
(5)
Leslie O.
Quiche was terrible. Love traditional tall Quiche and had to send this one back it was that bad. Ordered a salad instead that was decent. Offered to buy me dessert, but it was lunch and I did not except. Dissappointed:(
(2)
Veliero M.
On a warm autumn Saturday afternoon we stumbled upon Bistrot Zinc with its big windows open to let the sun and warm air in. The waiter was very nice, the service fast and the food good! We had the creme brulee, not in that order, we ate it last actually. Very nice, could not stop eating it! And the specials. The quiche, the zucchini soup that was so velvety and smooth and the crepe with mushroom and a sherry sauce where you could just taste the sherry in your mouth and it was so very delicious. We will be back!
(4)
Amy Z.
This place is legitimately amazing. It is not cheap--so if you care mainly about that, go elsewhere. But if you want a fantastic date or night out with close friends and don't mind paying a bit for it, you will have a great time. Their best thing here is hands down the creme brulee. I feel like I shouldn't be typing this on Yelp, because I'm always a little scared that when I go there, they will be out, but so far so good, and the pastry chef deserves credit where credit is due. The dessert portions are generous, so for all you calorie counters out there, you can share this with someone else. As for their food, I tend to like the French Onion Soup and any of their vegetarian salads. I've had the dinner crepes (galettes) here a few times and have never fallen in love, but a few of my dinner companions have enjoyed these. I recently went here with my boyfriend and his family and everybody enjoyed their meal. In short, if you like things on the lighter side then stick with the salads and save room for dessert, but if you are a heartier eater then you should feel safe choosing any of the mains.
(5)
Elizabeth R.
Went here last night with my husband for NYE dinner. We had a multitude of problems and a very poor dining experience and definitely will not be going back again. First, both things I ordered they didn't have. It was a bellini for a drink, which was fine, I can understand that. But then to be out of the filet! I was upset. It was a holiday dinner and I wanted something special which for me meant a filet. The waiter could have told me that when he explicitly pointed out the special entrees and before we stared at the menu for ten minutes! Also, we had reservations and yet got seated at the worst table in the whole restaurant. We also felt so rushed it was rediculous. When we are spending that much money for drinks and dinner on a holiday I don't want to be rushed. I mean our food came out in literally three minutes. Then the waiter kept walking by eyeing our plates to see if we were done. My husband and I both got the steak frites and I had to spit so much fat from the steak in my napkin I think there was more in there than actually went in my mouth. So overall, poor food and bad service, not my idea of a great restaurant. The prices were fine and I didn't mind the decor and atmosphere.
(1)
Sarah J.
After passing by decided to try it out on a whim. French onion soup was delicious. Adorable inside! I'll definitely be back.
(5)
Double L.
This place is probably the only thing I miss about not living in the Gold Coast anymore. Maybe that and the smell of stale vomit on the weekends. I think of this place as a bit of an oasis in the Gold Coast/Viagra Triangle area. The atmosphere is really nice and their attempt to transport you to a nice little bistro in Paris is fairly effective. The staff for the most part is friendly and accommodating. The crowd is always a nice mix and the place never seemed to try to be more then it is. I'm sure it is possible to pay quite a bit more at another venue and receive the same quality service and food but that is your choice. We have tried several different things on the menu but always fall back to the Peppercorn Steak. Onion Soup is pretty tasty and they seem to have some great dessert specials on a regular basis. Probably worth checking out for an after dinner drink and dessert if you are dining some place else in the area and are looking for a change of scenery. Zinc, That's what I think. RrL
I had a long lunch with a girlfriend at Bistrot Zinc today. All in all it was a great experience. The ambience of the place is adorable -- tile floor, classic bar, potted palms -- very "cute corner bistro." And the food was also quite good, though not the best French cuisine I've had in Chicago (that would be Bistro Campagne or Marche). But definitely still four-star worthy. The service left a little bit to be desired -- our waiter just seemed a bit checked out, but no major gaffes or anything. All in all a very pleasant place for a long lunch with a girlfriend.
(4)
Matt L.
I guess it's about time that I review Bistro Zinc. I've been there a number of times now with my parents, who like the place enough to keep going back. First off: the service is excellent. Even though it's not a comparatively expensive restaurant (entrees range from $16-30), they make you feel like you're at a real first class establishment. Secondly: I don't think I'm cut out for French food. Escargot I can do, but the salmon and other cooked fishies, uh uh. So I'm usually forced into red meat or the other white meat. Or French onion soup. (If I had a better sense of humor, I'd probably write "LOL" instead of this sentence and move on.) Third: The steak frites here is teh sucks. Seriously, that piece of meat is so flat and sad. Even the big pat of herbed butter doesn't help him out. And his fried friends that live on the plate next to him, they're sad too. Fourth: Croque Monsieur is good, but not that good. He needs better cheese!!! Fifth: French onion soup is very good. Sixth: Dessert is good. Seventh: They make a great martini and a bloody brilliant bloody mary. I'm no wine some lee a (or whatever term they use when someone makes a profession of telling people how to get drunk), but their selection seems quite nice. They have a Jeroboam of Veuve on the wall to prove it. Eighth: Brunch here is the shiznitobamsnipsnapsnap. Seriously, banana nutella crepes all the time.
(4)
Craig C.
I have two comments: 1. Best Mussels in the city. 2. Best Crepes in the city. 'nuff said.
(5)
matt b.
I guess I don't know why anyone would go here on purpose, but if they did, they probably wouldn't hate it? It's middle of the road on most counts. The prices were reasonable, service was fine (borderline slow), menu was pretty typical for brunch/lunch, and food was fine. I had the Oeufs au Saumon Fum, hollandaise was fine, salmon was better than average, and a bloody mary that was actually superb. For a fallback, if you are local, it's a go.
(3)
Lisa S.
Excellent food, service, and ambiance on a recent weeknight. The mussels (appetizer) are superb. The roasted chicken was perfectly tender and so flavorful...loved the mushroom, bacon, pearl onion combo. Also tried the steak frites (delicious as well). Great place for date night!
(4)
Katie C.
You brought me Champagne when I got a new job. You brought me chocolate when cried into my wine glass about my ex. Remember that day it was like 20 below?....You...yes you....gave me the come hither stare to relax and get toasty with you. Some times you get really busy and I feel like I wither away into the crowd. Other times just a few other people are there with you and me. I love you Bistro Zinc. I honestly love you. ps- J'adore votre potage franais d'oignon
(5)
Dustin B.
Great place for a romantic dinner. Prices were quite reasonable. We were seated immediately at about 8:15 on a Sunday evening (about 45 minutes before closing time). Even this close to closing time, we received very good service. I had the carmelized onion tart for an app: oh so rich (almost too heavy). It was very good. My wife had the onion soup (as usual). It was not quite up to our standards. The cheese, crouton, and onions were very good, and the stock had a nice flavor to it but needed more body. Possible they were using a dark chicken stock instead of a beef or veal stock. I had the foie de veau (I love organ meat). Ordered medium rare. The insides were good, but the outside was a little too seared (to the point of being charred). Pommes puree were good. My wife had a chicken and mushroom crepe. Had a little too much chicken, and perhaps not quite enough mushrooms, but good other than that. Dessert was poached pears with mascarpone. My wife liked the pears, I liked the mascarpone. That works pretty well, I'd say. Brownie points for carrying Duvel. I order one whenever I can. Can't buy that one in Iowa. It was even served in a Duvel glass.
(4)
Mike G.
Found bug in $11.50 glass of wine. I'm sorry, but first impressions go a long ways. Find a cleaner establishment. (they did replace the glass of wine)
(1)
Neline S.
I am a BIG fan of French food and I took my friend to Bistrot Zinc to satisfy our fix. I ordered the Vol au Vent en Croute and it was excellent. I think I enjoyed the pastry more than the stew itself but what totally blew me away was their mousse au chocolat. The mousse was light and airy and the chocolate shavings were bittersweet. I couldn't believe how amazing this dessert was that I have no desire to try any dessert on their menu because I love this so much.
(5)
Stef B.
You can't go wrong grabbing lunch here! I've tried it all, soup & sandwich, quiche, French Onion soup... its all delicious! I've only been here for lunch, and they're never really busy so it's a nice calm, relaxing place to go. The interior is great, it really does feel like you stepped right out of Chicago and into France. I am a supporter!
(4)
Annie S.
I don't understand why people think this place is so great for brunch (no offense to fellow reviewers) but my friends and I thought it was pretty mediocre. We ordered eggs benedict, omelet w/salad and the basic breakfast w/ eggs, toast, ham and potatoes. The portions were pretty small (which makes sense since we are in a french restaurant) but the dishes were pretty bland. What I liked the most was the potatoes. We also had mimosas, which I thought was pricey at $9/glass. However, the service was great and the staff are really nice. The decor is pleasant and it was fun to people watch as well. It was a really diverse group of eaters, which is always nice to see. I don't think I will ever go back for the brunch but I might try it for dinner sometime. The location is great and it would be fun to go back in the summertime.
(2)
Abby S.
It wasn't that the food wasn't wonderful, but good food is nothing in comparison to great service. I am aged 21 and an undergraduate at Columbia College Chicago where I study fiction writing. I am meek in stature, only coming up to 5'1". Why am I saying this here? It is because I was looked down the long, aquiline nose of both host and server upon entering the restaurant. My attire? More than appropriate. My autonomy? On or above par. My company? Educated and observant of nice restaurant doctrine. Nevertheless, we were discriminated against. Maybe because we were young, maybe because we were women, it is unknown why. I had gone there twice previously in the afternoon during last year, however, the third time did not serve me well at all. For this, my vote for Bistrot Zinc went down considerably. I am by no means the final say, and I hope those who go there whom are in the same position as me have finer service than I did; I am just saying I would be wary to travel there again.
(2)
Joshua M.
First off I'm a bit biased. I think French stuff is overrated. I know I know, they are so romantic. But you know there is a reason they are attacked first in every world war. Despite this I was a good sport and tried Bistrot Zinc. And you know what, I had a great banana and nutella crepe, with a side of extra crispy bacon. It was kinda pricey for what it was, but definitely good. The service however was just weird, and that was where BZ lost some stars with me.
(3)
Karen W.
Mmmmmmm... Delicious! Had pork cheeks tonight, usually have trout, always have mussels or escargot as an appetizer. My husband loves the chicken crepe, the salmon, and calves liver. Atmosphere is outstanding! Music is superb. Great place for a comfortable, delectable meal. Oh wait -- the bread!!!! Go try it
(5)
Nicole L.
I love this spot for a morning brunch in a quaint French setting. I recently had dinner here for the first time and was very pleased with the experience. The ladies at the table next to us were drinking kir royales so I of course had to order one as well...loved it. As an appetizer we tried the mussels, which were extremely flavorful and were deemed the best mussels ever by my dining companion. Additionally, the service was fantastic and very willing to answer any questions about the menu. I highly recommend Bistrot Zinc for anyone in the mood for good food in a sophisticated atmosphere!
(5)
Patrick P.
Despairing that Brasserie JO closed since my last Chicago visit, I tried Bistrot Zinc. Didn't take long to feel at home, with the casual French decor and a great meal at the (real zinc) bar. Bartender Lisa is the consummate host with the perfect mix of attentiveness, conversation and reserve. Her seasonal herb-infused cocktail list is creative, informed and not to be missed.
A nice little French bistro in the Gold Coast. Overall, I enjoyed it, even if I felt it was average. The wait staff are somewhat aloof and unattentive for my taste, but certainly not bad by any means. Because of BZ's location, there are a lot of older people dining there. Again not a bad thing, just different. The food is good, filling, and on par with typical Bistro fare pricewise, if a bit "uninspired". I really enjoyed the Tarte L'Oginon for an appetizer and the Poulet Roti (not called Roti here though, even if that's what it is) was cooked perfectly. The wine list is ok - if I were more of a wine snob, I might have been very upset with that fact that they list a 2004 Guigal but brought to our table a 2005. **UPDATE**: I've returned to BZ several times since writing this review and can say that's it's become my "regular" bistro. I believe I just had a bad waiter (haven't seen that one since) and have had a great time in all but that one occasion.
(4)
Amy S.
We had a great experience at Bistrot Zinc. The waiter was very attentive and all of the food was wonderful. The special stew of the day was a pork and apple flavored with lavender. Very good. Definitely a good value.
(4)
Car M.
Lunch was good - I got the quiche of the day. If I'm in the neighborhood, I'll stop in, but probably wouldn't go out of my way to eat there.
(3)
Simon L.
We went to Bistro Zinc only once, but that was our last time. Pluses: - Great location in the Gold Coast area. During nice days they leave the windows wide open, creating a very pleasant environment. Minuses: - Food is just average. - The service was terrible. When the waiter poured water into my wife's glass, he did it from the other side of the table. Condensate was dripping from the jug to my wife's knife. My wife asked for another knife. When the waiter went to the back, we saw him complaining to another waiter. Also, when we were done, it took a while before we get any attention. Conclusion: We won't go back again.
(2)
Randall O.
We went here for lunch. The place is very nice. Sat by the window. Service was good and friendly. We both had soup, I had cauliflower and my wife had onion. I highly recommend the onion. I had chicken and mushroom crepes. Very filling and good flavor. My wife had the tuna and loved it. Done to her liking. I would come here again.
(5)
Clark K.
Went there recently and had onion soup and sandwich, food was good, but the staff looked miserable, not one smile in the place, come on, lighten up a little, at least fake it
(2)
Sally B.
A civilized gem in the middle of madness on State Street. I couldn't believe how delicious and original the Trio Salad was - orange watermelon? You've got to be kidding me! It was delicious. So was the Escargot. The Walleye was tasteless and seemed to be breaded, which I didn't like. But the environment is comfortable, and yes Parisian.
(4)
Irene K.
That was french food likes,we do not expect authentic,but at least get it to test similar,service was weary good
(2)
Jenna D.
There was one day when I......er...I mean a "friend" of mine may have accidentally eaten two brunches in one day. But, it wasn't my fault...they have banana nutella crepes! I mean it wasn't HER fault....my friend that is.
(5)
Fred S.
This was one of the most disappointing dining experiences we have had during the eight months we have been back in Chicago. We had really been looking forward to going to B. Zinc, for the reviews on Yelp are really strong and the atmosphere (from looking in the front window) appeared to be incredible. Well, the atmosphere is amazing. The food - well, the night we went it really wasn't very good. The mediocre food combined with our expectations meant that we left disappointed. We started with a drink at the bar, and they had a nice selection of French wines by the glass. That being said, you are much better off ordering a bottle of wine. Their wine glasses are small. So, while the prices on their "by the glass" selections seem reasonable, they aren't all that reasonable when you consider the glass size. The bar has a great feel to it though, and they place what appear to be homemade potato crisps on the bar for you to have as a snack. When we were seated we ordered a salad and an appetizer to share. Given the cost of the salad ($9), we figured that it would be enough for us to share. Wrong. The $9 goat cheese salad is definitely a one person appetizer size salad. It was our fault for not asking if it was a large or small salad, but $9 for an appetizer salad (given the price of the entrees) is really steep. The salad was good, but not great. I definitely would not order it again. We also ordered the escargot. The escargot are great; the bread that they serve with your meal is not. The poor quality of the bread (for me) makes eating escargot much less of a treat. I wouldn't order them again simply because the bread on the table is so bad. (Of the "bistros" we have been to - Kiki's, Mon Ami Gabi, Brasserie Jo - Bistro Zinc's bread is by far the worst.) Our entrees were good, not great. I had the lamb shoulder. It was tasty, but very, very fatty. The price was reasonable given the size of the dish ($19). I want to go back to Bistro Zinc, for I have to believe that they had an off night. I rarely find that so many people on Yelp will rave about a restaurant when it is as average as this place was on our first visit. Nonetheless, based on our one visit I couldn't recommend Bistro Zinc - I would tell you to go to Kiki's Bistro or Mon Ami Gabi instead.
(2)
Callan C.
Great spot, stopped by for lunch randomly and it was delicious. A little pricey, but good atmosphere.
(4)
Christine C.
Scallops were great!!! Roast chicken not the best. We went for brunch and it was wonderful. The French toast was delicious. Cozy atmosphere!
(5)
Anonymous P.
Having lived in Chicago, I've never been a fan of the restaurants around Rush Street, but I was in the area and dropped into Bistrot Zinc for brunch. Very nice and open layout, stylish but not stuffy. The staff was great and the meal was excellent starting with the coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice to the crepe with the side of bacon. It's never a wrong time to eat bacon. Makes me miss living in Chicago, but then I realize it's 10 degrees outside and I realize why I don't live here anymore.
I'm giving this a 4.5 rating, maybe 5. Probably helps that we live a stones throw from the place and consider it an easy go to. Bistrot Zinc feels like a little slice of Europe with the tiled floors and big zinc bar (with the best home made potato chips ever). It's a little pricey for your average week night out, but it's just one of those places that you feel great eating in and the crowd is MUCH better than it's neighboring choices- Carmines, Gibsons, Tavern- yuck. Wine is good, food is standard french fare, always good (not reinventing the wheel but always good), delicious dessert and even better cappuccinos.
(5)
Cole D.
I've been here a couple of times for brunch/lunch. Good, consistent, typical French bistro fare. Nothing like a croque monsieur and a plate of pommes frites after a night of overindulgence. I can also vouch for the onion soup, which is almost a necessity on a frigid Chicago day.
(3)
Rob S.
When I long for France, I go to Bistro Zinc. It feels like I'm in Paris here, and tastes like it, too. I always order pastisse or Pernod. Great service, great drinks, and super desserts...j'suis pret!
(3)
Kirstie M.
Oh, how I miss Bistrot Zinc! My husband and I spent a year living in Chicago, just a short walk down State Street from this cozy little Gold Coast gem, so named because of their handcrafted zinc bar. OK, I must confess, we went in the first time after getting one of their coupons in the mail. The place looked so charming, and it was just too good of a deal to pass up! But we fell in love with it on the first visit and kept going back. Anniversaries, birthdays, date nights, Thursday afternoons...we were always finding reasons to go to Bistrot Zinc. We brunched, we lunched, we dined, we drank and we always felt like we were in our own little secret spot. Never touristy, Bistrot Zinc feels like a tucked-away neighborhood spot in an area that's overrun with trendy bars and expense-check restaurants. My menu faves included: the Brioche French Toast (with vanilla marscapone and fresh berries...yum!), Le Royale (a fantastic burger, which, while it's only on the lunch menu, you can get at dinner if you ask), the Tarts au Saumon Fume appetizer, the Vol au Vent stew (which changes daily), the Steak Frites, the Steak au Poivre and the Nutella crepes (hold the banana, please). Adding to the charm of Bistrot Zinc is an authentic French bistrot vibe and a great staff, including Wes, the day manager, a total sweetheart of a guy. The next time we can make it back to Chicago, Bistrot Zinc will definitely be one of the first stops on our list. But for now, tell Wes we said hello.
(5)
Caroline T.
It is sort of exactly what I expected. Seemingly amazing from the outside- but just A-ok food--- for a fine food price--- which is how all of the restaurants on the Gold Coast/ Rush strip seem to be. My spinach goat salad was fine- it was just that. The Salmon I was disappointed with--- way too much orange sauce of some sort-salmon was overcooked- and not enough quiona (sp). BUT the chocolate mouse was divine- not much you can do to mess that up! I did also enjoy the escargots and the ambiance- which were both straight out of Paris. So do I recommend this place? Not really- maybe lunch is better? Its just too typical here.
(3)
Erika G.
I love going here for weekend breakfast/brunch. Eeeet eees so French! If I lived closer, I'd be hangin' out at the bar a LOT more. Fun place, unpretentious and lots of character.
(4)
Hurricane H.
Being an out-of-towner, we were just looking for a good place to eat lunch. Bistrot Zinc was a beautiful Parisian respite from the gritty streets of Chicago. An oasis of French neighborhood bistro fare amongst the requisite Rush Street pizza or burger places. I had the Croque Monsieur with an appetizer of Fois Gras. My tablemate ordered the onion soup and the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb sandwich, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli). We shared. It was a great lunch. When we left, I felt like I'd had a vacation from my vacation. Ahhhhhhh. (But BEWARE, finding a parking spot in this neighborhood is next to impossible!)
(5)
Sarah M.
I love Bistrot Zinc. My husband and I eat here a lot and it's also a great place to bring the kids in the early evening--wonderful children's menu and very friendly staff. It's also great for lunch--solid lunch menu and really reasonable prices. Great escargot and a wonderful blue cheese burger. Some dishes miss the mark but over all, a great neighborhood bistro for a casual lunch or dinner.
(4)
Natasha M.
The most horrible food in Chicago out of the 90 restaurants we have tried. So almost every Friday night, my boyfriend and I would go find a new restaurant to dine in. It was a lively Friday night and we walked around Loop and Gold Coast, starting Hubbard st all the way up to Goethe St up north, walking in blocks to find a new restaurant we haven't tried. We walked for 2.5 hours. We walked around Rush St. It was about 9pm and most restaurants were full besides Bistro Zinc. We decided not to try it, but after walking for another 30 min, we came back since there is no waiting line. The atmosphere was above average, but the food as absolutely horrible that I can't give it more than a 1 star. I ordered Liver Pate (around $19) and my boyfriend ordered a quite expensive steak ($25), and it turned out that they looked like the same and tasted like the same. The steak was even smaller than my Pate. I am a Liver person, but this is not right. As I was about to finish my tiny Live Pate dish, I GAGGED because It was so gross and salty and full of a smelly taste and blood dripping out. I could not finish the dish and my poor boyfriend finished it for me since his steak was tinier. The waiter told me the Cyder drink I order was $3.25 and it turned out to be a small bottle and it was $4.50. We walked away, spending $30/pp, feeling that we just wasted so much money and time. I have been to France several times, and this place basically destroyed my impression of French food. 0 Star if I there is a choice.
(1)
Brenna M.
I second, and third and fourth a lot of the reviews about this place. It is classy without being snobby, and the food is good, although I woldn't say outstanding...maybe that's because I thought there was too much cheese on my french onion soup. However, my friend got mad and boldly stated "There is no such thing as too much cheese". So there you have it. Also gets an extra star because it's the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with the people next to you and make new friends!!
(4)
Corinne M.
My favorite restaurant in Chicago. This may be because I love all things French, especially the food. Bistrot Zinc is a wonderful place for brunch as it's casual, classy and unpretentious at the same time. The prices are really reasonable and they have the best Eggs Benedict in the city (a light lemony Hollandaise). The decor is charming and the French music they play is light and pleasant. The sandwiches here are really tasty and the crepes are yummy as well. The coffee and tea here are delicious and the Creme Brulee is pretty great too. It's never too crowded for weekend brunch and if your lucky you can get a seat in the window and watch some of the Gold Coast's characters as you eat a delicious and reasonably priced meal.
(5)
Jean C.
A few years ago I had brunch here. I had a chicken and mushroom crepe. I didn't like it... it was bland and salty. The brunch may be better now, but this was my experience.
(2)
David W.
We just found this place while walking Rush Street on an oddly busy Wednesday night and were happy with the food. If they had not put us near the kitchen, the rating would have been higher. We enjoyed the mussels (what a cream sauce!), grandmother's chicken, and pork cheeks. Like most French-dolts, the only pressure is being able to order the food that I'm just not sure how to pronounce and a few I wondered what they even were... Over all, good food....
(3)
J S.
I've gone 3 times- twice for dinner and once for brunch- and had mixed experiences in terms of food quality and service. While I don't recommend it without caveats, I think it's a place that prepares a few menu items exceptionally well while offering an intimate French setting. The key is identifying the items that are exceptional while avoiding the disappointing ones. Of course, I can only speak of my experience... The good: the lamb sandwich and bouillabaisse. Both are excellent and merit a trip to the restaurant. The bad: french onion soup (far too sweet) and croque madame (bechamel sauce, please?). Hope this helps anyone considering dining here.
(3)
Lindsee R.
My first time here, I loved! it. I had the spinach omlette and my friend and I shared the profiterole and apple tart desserts. The second time however, I also had the omlette, but ham this time and it was perfectly delicious, but the apple tart had changed into some sort of reheated frozen concoction with jar sauce. I don't know what was going on that day or if they've just traded in their old recipe, but it kind of made me not want to go back. If I want frozen, reheated desserts I'll go to Bennegin's.
(3)
Jessica Y.
Here for brunch again! Delicious french toast and great coffee. Attentive waiter and we made it before the crowd when we arrived at 11 on a Sunday. They didn't rush us out while we nursed our coffee and chatted. A+
(4)
David T.
another favorite of ours ,,, so far the best weekend brunch place we have found. The eggs Benedict are a winner. Atmosphere is friendly, and in the summer , with the front windows open its a great place to eat and watch the crowd go by. We have been there for dinner twice , the first time was excellent , the second time my steak could of doubled for shoe leather. If I was the kind of guy that sends back food, i would of that time ..... but I'm not... might have just been an off night for them and the butcher ! Brunch is a home run though every time !
(4)
Sierra M.
Everything pleasant.
(4)
Gfiddy F.
Enjoy champagne or vino at this casual and very French bistro.
(5)
johnny b.
It was fine I just wouldn't go back unless someone else was paying.
(2)
shawn f.
Good food, nice atmosphere, excellent service..... nuff said
(5)
Jason S.
I used to live in Chicago several years ago, and the Bistrot Zinc located on the Northside (southport) used to be a favorite of my wife and I. I was pleased to see that they still have a downtown location when I returned to Chicago for business. I'd talked two of my co-workers into coming and we all enjoyed ourselves. They each had the pan-roasted chicken breast with mustard cream and I had the hanger steak with the barley mushroom ragout.. The service was efficient and friendly. My friends who were less familiar with Bistro food were welcomed and had their questions answered. Both the apple tart and the almond-butter cake with lemon curd were excellent. All in all a fair value and good ambiance for an enjoyable evening. Good French food without having to drip with pretension.
(4)
Lauren K.
I had the quiche (gruyere, bacon and leeks) with petit salad and creme brulee for dessert. Very good - a little expensive for lunch, but I guess you have to consider location.
(4)
Amy B.
I truly enjoyed my Sunday brunch!! Wonderful atmosphere, efficient service and great food!! My friend and I both enjoyed our choices. The french toast brioche with vanilla mascarpone and strawberries was divine. The omelette with gruyere, mushrooms and spinach was paired perfectly with mixed greens. Yum!! The menu had many choices and I can't wait to go back and enjoy more!! Just a bit of a warning. The brunch cocktails, mimosa and bloody mary, cost just as much as the entrees. That was a bit unexpected.
(4)
Joe J.
Went just this morning (re: Noon) for brunch and had the Brioche french toast with marscapone and a side of potatoes. Left full and definitely satisfied. The interior is nice as well, looking upscale but cozy at the same time. No complaints about the place. Prices were average as well.
(5)
Samantha L.
I came here with friends today for a Sunday brunch. I had the Croque Monsuier, which I cannot spell. Basically, it's a sandwich with French ham and cheese. It was quite delicious, though the fries were not that good (which disappointed the potato-lover in me). The restaurant looks nice and classy, and though it's not cheap, it's not as expensive as the restaurant looks like it would maybe be.
(4)
Jennifer K.
Oh, this is just a wonderful place! I've been looking for a great French stop for lunch, and this fit the bill. I had the poulet grand mere, and it was succulent. The broth was not too salty, with lightly simmered vegetables. And the chicken was moist, not dry. For dessert, I had crepe with nutella and banana - marvelous. The price came up to be $30, and I thought it was well spent. I really like the fact that the place has a very laid back vibe to it. The staff is attentive. And the music is soft, yet lively...basically, the ambience is great! I brought a book with me and read while enjoying lunch.
(4)
Stryker C.
Kick ass real, actual French bistrot food. This IS the kind of thing you'd experience in france and the neighborhood bistrot. I can't say enough, anytime I make it to Chicago, I will make sure to get to this place. It ain't a snobby, high-priced bullshit place...it's real, quality french food in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere...take a step into a little window of France and try this place.
(5)
Paul R.
Yum. Brioche French Toast, as well as Nutella/Banana Crepes... mimosas, coffee. What more could you want when you can no longer catch a Concorde to CDG for petit dejeuner. Charming atmosphere reminiscent of Parisian cafes. Excellent service... tres bein!
(4)
Ira S.
Looks very nice, with the sexiest (in a tasteful way) painting I ever remember seeing in a restaurant. The service is elegant and swift (maybe too swift-- after all, one needs time to appreciate the painting). The food-- more Eastern European than French-- is competently cooked, but falls short of ecstatic. In short, I can't give above a 3 when I like my own cooking better.
(3)
Barry P.
Great ambience, great service, great food. My favorite restaurant to have a lovely dinner with my wife. The mussels are the best in the city, IMHO.
(5)
Martha Z.
I've always wondered where I could go for French onion soup on my lunch break. Thanks to my foodie co-worker, she pointed me to Bistro Zinc. This place has the perfect lunch atmosphere. Quiet and spacious. The wait staff was very hospitable. My french onion soup, amazing. I also enjoyed part of the croque monsieur. A bit on the pricey side, but perfect for the occasional lunch time treat.
(4)
Brenda T.
I love this place! It is very consistant, the service is great thanks to Joey, and Dave... and the manager Michael is adorable. You can't really find anything on the menu that you won't love. If you do the bar there are great home-made waffle chips, and hard boiled eggs to snack on while Joey shakes the perfect martini.
(5)
Nicholas G.
Delicious food in a classy but not pretentious atmosphere. My gf and I often come here for brunch/lunch on the weekend. I usually end up ordering a glass of champagne, french onion soup, and then a sandwich, all of which is consistently great. I also absolutely love the people watching here! You see everything, from fallen socialites (or at least that's the story the charming little old lady who sat next to me at the bar once told me), to flamingly obvious homosexual designers and the rich ladies who employ them, to the usual Gold Coast suspects walking buy the street outside. The staff is usually very friendly as well, though it can occasionally take awhile to get your food, but never obnoxiously long. If you don't have time to enjoy your meal, there is a Subway, Corner Bakery, and Chipolte near by to provide you with fast food.
(4)
Klaas V.
Excellent, their steak was fantastic and very reasonable at 29 dollars. Nice ambiance, good service. Really enjoyed it, thanks.
(5)
D S.
Very disappointing experience. It looked so promising when we were given a table by the window early on a Saturday night. We ordered a bottle of wine and the snail appetizer was pretty good. Next, my friend ordered the sea bass entree and I ordered the salad frisse with a chicken crepe. The waiter asked if I wanted the salad and "small plate" appetizer crepe together and I said yes. Ten minute later he came over and said the kitchen would not serve both together because "there wasn't enough real estate on the table". Well, it was a Saturday night and I didn't feel like fighting so I let the salad, poached egg and all, sit ther until my crepe came out so I could enjoy a conversation with my friend and we could eat together. And, sure enough, both my salad and "small plate" appetizer fit just fine on the table. Of course, it would have fit a little better if the large salad wasn't so unballanced with way too much lettuce to go with the other ingredients. I wouldn't have even noticed or wrote this negative review if the ktchen hadn't forced me to notice. The waiter was pretty nice otherwise, the egg was perfectly poached but the crepe was kind of dougy. I can't imagine I'll be dying to go back any time soon.
(2)
Isa B.
The ambiance is great, the wine was delicious, the service is very nice, but the food wasn't WOW. Very decent though but nothing to die for. My mom, who is French, had a Steak au Poivre that was ok, same thing with my husband. I had a Vegetable sandwich that was ok, but the salad didn't have much flavor. Other than that, we might go back again just to test our luck.
(3)
Gracie K.
This place is solid. Every time I go, I enjoy my meal and my service. The food is tasty and (I think) reasonably priced. The waiters are always very attentive and friendly, and the restaurant pulls off a sort of neighborhood feel. I would recommend their soups (butternut squash in particular) and (bien sur) the croque monsieur. Intense, but delicious. The steak frites is also reliable (the frites are quite good!) and the desserts are not to be missed. I always leave this place happy, full, and not too poor.
(5)
Alex A.
2.5 stars. I went there for a Sunday brunch because of a tropical rain outside. It looked nice. However I was overall quite disappointed by the food and the service. We ordered: - Brioche French Toast, with Vanilla mascarpone & fresh berries. The mascarpone was super thick and the berries average. - Granola, Fruit & Yogurt -- I asked for the Granola, Fruit & Yogurt Crêpe without the crepe in order to have granola, and they said sure, no problem, and just brought me the filling, with almost no granola. I guess I got what I asked for, but still.. And the fruit was mainly a banana The place was not authentic. No French server at all. We found old lettuce on our bench, and the coffee was average. I would not go back except to take cover from another tropical rain
(2)
Cristal P.
I went here with a girlfriend 2 nights ago after some shopping nearby, and we really enjoyed ourselves. We split a bottle of the Vouvray demi-sec, which was excellent. Their wine list is (predictably) mostly French, which I appreciate. It's also not so big as to be overwhelming, but still has a good selection. After going back and forth between the Lyonnaise salad and the cream of parsnip soup, we both opted for the soup. It was okay, a little too sweet and rich for me to finish more than half of my bowl. I ordered the grilled salmon for my main plate, and it was SO GOOD. Perfectly cooked and flavorful, it literally fell apart from the smallest pressure of my fork. My companion ordered the trout, which she said was good. For dessert, we split the almond butter cake. I'm a huge fan of Mastro's butter cake, but this one was a pretty damn close second. I will definitely be returning for the atmosphere and food.
(4)
Bonnie L.
We've been here a couple of times and were disappointed both times. 1. Service was noticeably slow. Not sure why when we were there past the lunch rush both times. 2. Food has been inconsistent and underwhelming. - French onion soup was super salty the first time. Second time there was no salt so it actually tasted sweet, probably because of the onions. - Crepes were decent but not impressive - Salad chevre was good the first time, inedible the second. Waaaay too much vinegar that it was inedible. Today I asked our waitress to take a picture of me and my mom since we were there to celebrate my birthday. While mom went to the restroom, the waitress took care of other customers and said she'd be back. Mom came back but the waitress never did. But she did pretend not to notice us when we left.
(2)
Taffi S.
While walking through Viagra Triangle, we have always commented on wanting to try Bistrot Zinc...last night was our first shot. While our visit wasn't terrible, it certainly wasn't memorable, so a return isn't on our horizon. We were promptly seated by the window, given bread, water, and menus. Started off on the right foot...however...it then took 20 minutes or so for our waitress to come and take our drink orders. Before she trotted off, we quickly suggested we should order. During this entire process, she was curt and acted as if we were an imposition on her evening. So we waited...and waited...and waited, and then 15 minutes later we finally got our drinks. Our food arrived... We had the French onion soup...lukewarm, flavor was OK (go to Bistrot Margot for better)...mussels, flavor was OK - they tasted like they were steamed and then thrown in a sauce at the last minute, (go to HB, not French, but fantastic for more flavor)...and lastly, the croque monsieur, which wasn't the melt in your mouth decadent sandwich we were hoping for. The ham tasted like it came directly from Oscar Meyer and the cheese and bread were one big greasy mess. On the plus side...the pomme frites were wonderful! hand cut fries that were perfectly seasoned and crisp. I definitely understand that some nights the food, staff, or the atmosphere may be off. It just so happened that two out of the three were off at the same time for us. With so many other spectacular culinary choices in the city, we will just have to pass.
(2)
Charlie M.
The service is phenomenal. The food is very authentic and its just a fabulous place to enjoy lunch. I had the vegetable tagine and thought it was marvelous. Please note, I just moved back from Cairo and I know Middle-eastern cuisine and this was right on the money. The price was fair and it wasn't loud or too stuffy. Basically, if you're looking for a good restaurant for lunch, this is the perfect place in the area. Enjoy!
(5)
Bonnie B.
The atmosphere is great and the service was good, but the food was so blah. I was really disappointed in the Salade Nicoise. My lunch companion said his sandwich was "just ok." It is too bad because it really is a cute place.
(3)
Bryan C.
This place was really good! It was very casual, very comfortable. I loved the atmosphere. Perfect french bistro feel to it, very laid back. Because it was my first time here, I wanted to have a classic french meal. We started with the escargot which was just delicious! So rich and flavorful. They kept on bringing us more bread to sop up all the yummy sauce! It was great! For my entree, I ordered the steak frites. The steak could have been a bit rarer, but that's my personal taste. It wasn't overcooked at all. I had to add a lot of salt to the fries, but I'd rather do that than have them come out over seasoned. They also had a great wine menu and the server was very attentive without being obnoxious. I especially loved the atmosphere of this restaurant. It was just really "cute" I guess you could say. If you're ever in the mood for some classic french bistro food in a super comfortable atmosphere, Bistro Zinc is worth checking out.
(4)
Andrew T.
I thought the food here for dinner was really good and service was almost impeccable. The fries/chips they have at the bar are quite unique. I had to take 'em to the table though, since they don't serve them at the table. I also had a coupon from the mail, so that added to the experience.
(3)
Rachael W.
Let's just say I've earned enough American Advantage Dining Miles eating at Bistrot Zinc to go on a free domestic trip. And at this rate, I'll have enough miles for an international flight by summer. A culinary trip through France, perhaps? But seriously, I've never had a bad meal or experience at Bistrot Zinc. For brunch, the yogurt, fruit and granola crepe is delicious and nutritious. Their daily quiche/salad combo is superbly rich yet light, which means there's always room for dessert. The chocolate crepe with vanilla ice cream is my favorite, but the banana nutella crepe is a close runner up. The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing with a quiet energy that makes it perfect for enjoying conversation with friends or dining alone with a good book. The service is fast and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I do wish they had a wider selection of wines by the glass, but perhaps that's just because I'm there so much that I've had them all several times over. The impeccable food, service and ambiance more than make up for it and keep me coming back to Bistrot Zinc time and time again.
(5)
Christine L.
I always love going to this restaurant, and have tried many French restaurants in the city. I've tried their brunch as well as dinner, and I prefer dinner as the brunch doesn't have very many choices. It's great for a date or with family. Reasonable prices, delicious food, and great specials. The service is always good and it's not usually too crowded, especially for a restaurant in the Rush/State St. area., but it's nice and cozy which I love!
(4)
Jeff Y.
i'm not a huge fan of french food, but when i need my fix i usually head over to bistrot zinc. they have all the usual french fare full of cream, butter, cheeses and anything else that can clog your arteries. be sure to try the mussels if you're into that sort of thing. i would definitely recommend this place more for lunch than dinner and the big, open dining area makes it good for groups as well. personally i like this place more than bistrot margot, but both are good choices if you're craving some cuisine française.
(3)
melissa h.
This place is good - I was pleasantly surprised. The staff was super friendly and attentive and the bread and butter were great. Our meals came quickly and they did not scoff that I had a take out coffee from a few moments ago. I would definitely eat there again. Later on in the afternoon they opened the windows to create a more open ambiance and thought to myself that would be a great place to people watch and have a little libation of sorts.
(5)
Ronnie V.
Yum. I met some friends for lunch here a few weeks ago and really had a good time. The service was pretty good and the atmosphere was pretty much exactly what I would expect from a bistro(t) at the end of Rush. But who cares about all that? Let's discuss the important things - the food. I had a lamb sandwich and I might be able to describe it as amazing. The lamb was perfect and the whole sandwich rocked (normally I'd say I'm getting sick of aioli but it worked well here) and the sandwich came with a pile of chips that were cut in a reall odd way but passed for a side. I tried a bite of the cheeseburger (royale apparently, hello Pulp Fiction) and of the quiche. All 3 were.... awesome. The only thing I was not wowed by was the cheese and sausage appetizer and the wines were ok but fairly priced. The whole menu sounded delicious and I will most definitely go back for brunch. Overall, very well priced and delicious food.
(4)
Eli R.
This was my fifth, and very likely last, visit. What's happened? The place seems to have gone downhill. A lot. First few visits were fine. The inside is quaint and the menu offered a reasonable bistro fare. Something must've gone wrong in the kitchen. Who said that salt and excessive spice are substitutes for subtle flavor? And, contrary to a common misconception, vast quantities of butter alone can't rescue a mediocre dish. Yet these are the tricks on which the chef seems to rely. How about a French Onion Soup that neither contains any onion nor is a soup? I love cheese as much as anyone, but a clay pot full of molten tasteless cheese-like substance does not make me a happy diner. And if you want to offer a tagine, please get the flavors right! Walking out after a meal, I felt an undesirable aftertaste, not to say nausea. On top of it, I was not crazy about the service, although it has been quite good in the past. The verdict - I'm done with Zinc for a while and can't recommend it to you.
(2)
Ren H.
This is a great little french place in the heart of the gold coast! Its a prime location for shopping and bar hopping and their food is actually really tasty!
(4)
steve h.
great french place thats not too hard on the wallet. of course had to sample their escargot (which was up to par) decided to go with their tongue which was done nicely (very 'sharp' in flavor and tender in texture). it was tour de france week when i went, so they were kind of celebrating it, but cmon..nobody really cares. i know they didn't. heh. anyways, good fare here. worth a visit or two.
(4)
Kelly I.
I was really looking forward to brunch here. howeve, I found it to be extremely disappointing. I love french food. I love brunch. However the service was so poor that I will never come back. Good service can make up for bad food but bad service can really leave a bad taste in your mouth.
(2)
Sohini K.
It's in my neighborhood, and so I tend to go oftener than I would otherwise, given the somewhat sparse choice of good & cheap places to eat in the Gold Coast area. The food is pretty good - the French onion soup, in particular, but it hasn't been stellar. The service has been mixed - on one occassion my friend and I received no service for at least 15 minutes after we were seated, and then it took about an hour for my food to come. It was for Sunday brunch, but the place wasn't that crowded! On another occasion we ordered the mussels, which turned out to be bad. The waiter sent for another batch and that too wasn't that much better. In the end they took it off our tab. All in all, it's a good option for the neighborhood, but not the best in the city.
(3)
Michelle R.
Go for breakfast. They have THE best french toast EVER. Period.
(5)
Brandon H.
I agree with what most everyone here has said. Great French food in a wonderful atmosphere that does without the stuffiness and price tag. The wine selection is sufficient but not extensive, and the deserts are some of the best I've had at a French restaurant in Chicago.
(4)
rachel p.
i really liked this place. it's a cute french bistro with cheerful yellow walls, white tablecloths and a marble bar. the service was friendly and attentive. and the food--at least for brunch--was light and yummy. they bring out some fabulous crusty on the outside, chewy on the inside bread to start. we pretty much went to town on this. i had a basic breakfast--my scrambled eggs were moist--i hate when they're overcooked and dried out. the roasted potatoes were lovely, bite size with just enough crunch. and i had some of the best bacon here i've ever had. it wasn't very fatty and had a relaly yummy smokiness to it. the husband got a ham and cheese omelette with that delicious french style swiss. my mimosa was more champagne that OJ--always a plus, and the husband's bloody mary was really well prepared too. this was definitely a good find.
(4)
Misi P.
Relatively unimpressed with the food. I have high standards for French, cuisine and this place just didn't cut it. The food was bland and uninspiring and their bread was tooth-splitting. Neither I or my friend enjoyed our meals here. I would like to give them 2.5 stars because their service was good, but I won't eat here again.
(2)
s b.
After trying Bistro Zinc recently for the first time, I must say that it is somehow a nice, quaint restaurant, despite it's bustling location. The food was great, but more than anything, our server made the night a truly lovely experience. He was the nicest man--checking on us routinely to make sure we were "comfortable" (as he put it), without crossing that line of constant interruption/feeling like you're being rushed. I had the braised lamb, and it tasted very good. My only complaint would be that I am used to braised lamb that falls apart at the touch of a fork, whereas I actually found this lamb to be a bit tough as I tried to cut it. Since I found the piece I was given to be a bit more fatty than I'm used to, the meat's toughness made it a bit difficult to cut around the fat. However, the flavor was great. Again, our server really topped off the experience, and I would love to go back again.
(4)
M. C.
This place is just so cute...like a little Parisian cafe. Plus, the food is just as great as the ambiance. So far, I've only been there for brunch, and both things that I've tried were top-notch: the Brioche French Toast and the Omelette with Spinach, Mushrooms, & Gruyere Cheese. I can't wait until I can go back for a lunch sandwich someday. I'm dying to try the Croque Monsieur.
(4)
M S.
Was served food with MOLD growing on it! Both hostess and waiter immediately apologized and replaced my plate, but the manager came out to very loudly insist (for the horrified customers around me) that the mold I saw was not actually mold, but a "mousse" that brushed onto the plate. Funny that the mold I, my boyfriend, the hostess and waiter saw was fuzzy and white.... (I would recommend staying away from any "mousse" they serve here as well!) The manager insisted that I was mistaken, and made a big deal about how they would "of course" replace the dish, as if she was doing me a huge favor. Would look elsewhere if you want to enjoy a healthy, fungus-free meal.
I love Bistro Zinc. I've been here for Sunday brunch several times. It is especially lovely during the warmer months when the windows in the front are all open. My favorite dishes here are the spinach, mushroom and gruyere cheese omlet & the yogurt and granola crepe. Everything is delicious though, I've also tried the brioche french toast and the eggs benedict. You really cannot go wrong here.
(5)
Samuel O.
Easily the best bistro I have been to in Chicago. The cassoulet is money.
(5)
K. J.
After the nice brioche French toast I had at 312, I decided to give the French toast here a try. It was just ok. I thought that the service was not bad and someone came by to fill our water often. Not as many people here as I thought that there would be on a Sunday morning so we were seated right away. The biggest problem was that the person I was dining with ordered the brie and spinach crepe, yet ended up getting what appeared to be an omelet. After speaking to someone who had been there before, it appears that she received the wrong dish, because it certainly did not seem to be a traditional crepe (or they accidentally put way too many eggs in the crepe batter). For that maybe they should get docked a star, but mistakes happen and we didn't complain. Nice atmosphere.
(3)
mary o.
had brunch here this past Sunday. The weather was nice so the front windows were wide open and there was a 4-top table right in front. The host started walking us towards the back so i requested to be seated at the front and she obliged..Why didn't she just sit us there in the first place? Anyways I had the spinach mushroom cheese omelet which was quite lovely, served with a small amount of nicely dressed greens. Had a great mimosa, and ordered a second which my waiter never brought, I don't think he heard me. Probably for the best, really didn't need it. My dining companion had the fruit/yogurt crepe that was really nice, though not your traditional french fare. I like the ambiance and setting of the place, it's a cute little neighborhood find.
(4)
Michele K.
Today I planned a Mom/Daughter day and our afternoon began at Bistrot Zinc. I have nothing but great things to say about this place! My Mom had the Ham&Cheese (Croque Monsieur) I think even the outside of the bread was crisped in gruyere cheese, delish! with a hefty serving of Pomme Frites to boot! I had the 1/2 soup and sandwich, grilled cheese(Croque Fromage) and baked french onion! I wish I had left overs so I could be eatting it again fantastic!! Bleu cheese in the grilled cheese! wonderful! ALso one of the best french onion soups I have had in awhile if ever! We split the chocolate cake with carmel sauce and side of fresh whipped cream. HEAVEN wish I could bath in that whipped cream,(Gateau au Chocolat) Highly reccommend this for lunch! I hope to go back to try dinner and brunch its an adorable restaurant that made us feel welcomed and comfy and our server was a doll! My Mom & I will def be making this a regular lunch spot for future Mom/Daughter days :)
(5)
P S.
It's not amazing, but the food is tasty and the atmosphere is fun.
(4)
Meredith C.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc with my family for Easter brunch, which was great. It's such a charming restaurant with great french food. The crepes are wonderful. I had the fruit and granola crepe. The tomato basil soup is a must! It also opens its front windows during the summer time which makes you feel even more like you are at a bistro in Provence...and it's great for people-watching in the Gold Coast area! This is great for a charming meal on the weekend or during the week with the family or for a date.
(4)
Gail T.
cute little restaurant in a nice neighborhood. wasn't impressed with the food. a good deal of my creme brulee was burned and you know what it tastes like when the top part of this desert is close to ashes. it was whatever and wasn't feeling a good vibe between the waitress and i. i don't wanna say snobby b/c its too forward but she was along this line. if you decide to go the best time is in the summer when the front of the restaurant has its windows open french provincial style. hence, get a window seat.
(3)
Joe S.
Surprise, a great restaurant within the Rush Street area. Solid bistro fare, sensible prices, tasty frisee salad, good pate, charcuterie plate. Housemade waffle chips at the zinc topped bar are addictive. Nice soups. Good cassoulet, chicken grand-mere style. Nice wine list but not as extensive as you'd hope. Tasty butter, a must in a bistro. No pretension despite it's proximity to the meat markets nearby. Steak Frites very good. Above average desserts. Windows open when it's nice out.
(4)
Takelya W.
really good food here. i enjoy the 'escargots BZ' or in other words, french snails, herb garlic, pernod
(4)
Design G.
I am going to stand tall and say that I like this place. Is it the best French place in the city? No-- but that's not why you should go. Go because the staff is great, warm welcoming and make you feel like you actually matter! True story: this was a couple years ago but my honey and I used to frequent the place all the time-- it was around the corner from where we resided and it wasn't outrageously expensive and it was good, comforting fare minus the attitude or gold-digger factor of most Viagra Triangle venues. Well, after a few months the very sweet lady who would greet us at the door came over to our table one night and handed us a gift certificate for a very kind sum. It was SO unexpected and SO sweet. We have a tendency to be very loyal but never because we ever expect anything but good service and this was just too kind. If you want to go somewhere to feel valued and have a relaxing lunch or dinner with your girlfriend or honey, look no further.
(5)
Brian C.
The French onion soup is outstanding, as others have already mentioned on here. Aside from that, my steak frites was pretty average. The house gamay was nothing special, either. It was a disappointing meal for what I spent, anyway. If the soup was only average, I would have dropped a star from this rating.
(3)
Terri K.
Good food-- GREAT DESSERT :) Very nice decor, pleasant staff and overall welcoming atmosphere.
(4)
H K.
Dinner (Thursday night): Having been to France, I could not wait to try this restaurant. Service: Fast and friendly Menu Selection is very very small, I had no choice but to order the ham and cheese. Food: The cheese plate is very good. My ham and cheese sandwich is okay, as for the " fries" I would rather go to McDonald's. If you do go, in the winter do not seat by the window, its freezing and over crowed.
(3)
Morris F.
Bistrot Zinc is a dependable neighborhood spot with good food, great service, and upscale prices. Our most recent weekday evening visit was typical. We shared the grilled sardine appetizer with roasted red peppers; the sardines were tastily done and the peppers (tasted store-bought) mitigated their saltiness. One of has the onion soup as a next course, and this is probably one of the best things on the menu, a slightly sweet beef broth with plenty of onion baked with a deliciously cheesy crouton on top. Yum! The other had mussels, which are cooked in a creamy, garlicy broth and wonderful to eat with Zinc's delicious bread. The steak frites were just fine, with the meat cooked exactly as ordered, tender and tasty, but at the price a little undersized. 2/3 of the plate was covered with the frites, which are quite good. The trout served on a bed of spinach was just OK, the trout was nicely cooked but it needed something - salt helped. The spinach was also cooked just right, but it gets cold before you eat it. It also needed something - a good sized wedge of lemon on the plate would help. Next time I'd go with a different dish. We enjoyed a good bottle of merlot ($39, one of the lowest-priced on the menu) with our meal and finished with coffee. The tab for two, including a generous tip for our server, came to $150. If you're looking to enjoy the ambience at a lower cost, soup and salad makes a good option, or try one of the "lighter" dishes listed on the menu. I've never experienced attitude from waitstaff when ordering a lighter meal. When busy, Bistro Zinc can be extremely noisy and at those times, it will be very conversation challenging.
(3)
Brittany M.
After living in France for a bit, it's difficult to readjust to American dining. Thank god for Bistrot Zinc. The restaurant is adorable. We were able to walk in without a reservation on a Thursday night. How excited was I when I saw they had kir! There entrees are consistently good; my salmon was delicious and the escargot - pure heaven.
(4)
Sophia L.
I've only been to Chicago a few times, but I always make at least a quick stop here. It's great for something light or brunch - or just as a place to take in the scene. I love bistros and bistro-fare, and Bistro Zinc is definitely a keeper!
(4)
Sarah M.
Just had a lovely lunch at Bistrot Zinc. I had the 1/2 sandwich and soup - truffled egg salad and a chilled potato soup. Perfect for a warm day; filling but not heavy. My husband had the lamb sandwich, which he said was excellent. The service was attentive, and the windows that open onto State St. make it a really nice place for an early summer lunch. We will be back.
(4)
John M.
3.5 stars as I've only been once for brunch, but definitely worth a visit. The past two years we've met friends for brunch on Christmas Eve, and last year we went to Le Creperie. It was quite busy when we arrived but with a reservation we were seated promptly once everyone showed up and the service was very good. We were taken care of by the bartender (which sometimes can go either way) and it was an enjoyable experience. Everyone enjoyed their food, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to try escargot (which - by the way - was very good - dip your bread in after they're gone for added flavor). Had a bottle of brut rose to top things off, overall a very pleasant and tasty experience.
(4)
Susan S.
I have been here numerous times and the service is always superb and I love the ambiance. Truly like a French Bistro, especially in the summer when the windows are open. Try to sit near them. I love escargot, although this is not my favorite on their menu as it has almost a little too much garlic in it. The crepes are excellent, the coffee divine (intelligensia) as my sister says, and if you want something light and healthy, the fruit plate is very refreshing. I just love coming here for the feel of it, as it is never a bad experience.
(4)
A.S. V.
What's great about this Parisian style Bistrot is that it isn't overly fancy. It's comfortable, and not insanely expensive. Try the dessert crepes with Intelligentsia coffee.
(4)
Jean L.
I moved to Chicago three years ago and have wanted to try this place since. I walked by it on my way to school every day and the open window/air dining was so enticing. But it seemed that every time I wanted to go, I always seemed to be rushing off to somewhere. But I finally got a chance to go! And I was excited. I walked in the door, and the host saw me and my dining partner walk in, turned around, and started fixing something on a table? ..umm... So we waited for a few seconds and he came back and sighed and said "Two?"..."yes please?" The waiter started us off with bread. And it was far from good. Just really bland, cheap bread with butter. But it was free, and who am I to complain? My dining partner ordered a chicken and mushroom crepe that was really quite good! On the other hand, i ordered a shrimp pasta of sorts that was the fishiest thing I have ever eaten. My dining partner was convinced it was just from really old shrimp that had gone bad and forbade me to eat any more. So bottom line? I'm really torn. It was just such a let down. I was expecting much more and got so much less than I expected.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes
Stephanie W.
I have to agree with Reed N. here - the negative reviews are a little unwarrantedly harsh. Let me enumerate all the reasons why I love Bistro Zinc. For background information, my parents live right around the corner and this is one of their favorite neighborhood spots (in a neighborhood of easily accessible good food). They're here on average at least once every two weeks. 1. The service. The host, Michael, always greets us with a smile and seats us promptly, despite the fact that we never have a reservation. He's totally sweet and attentive, and most of the servers are pretty damn good as well. They space out a little on occasion, but Nothing major, and the bus boys are always quick about serving and clearing. 2. The ambiance. Cute and cozy. Dark enough to talk intimately, quiet enough to not have to shout to be heard. And the tables are actually not on top of each other, a real luxury these days. 3. The food. Believe me when I say I've never had a bad meal here, and I really find just about everything on the menu appealing. On my most recent visit, we tried... - Bread and butter. I know, I know, every French place and almost every dinner restaurant serves bread and butter. But the butter here is particularly good. - Green salad. Just simply dressed butter lettuce. Crisp and refreshing and light. - Salade au chevre. A goat cheese salad served with red onions and pears on a bed of mixed greens. A little too big for me, but super yummy. Great balance of flavors and even though the dressing looked a little much for me, it was just perfect. - The Mussels. A big steaming bowl of large, tender mussels in a garlic sauce. Expertly prepared and oh so delicious. - Butternut squash risotto with fried sage leaves. First of all, I love risotto. Second of all, I love butternut squash. What could have been better? The small chunks of squash in the risotto and the slight crunch of the fried sage leaves were nice touches. - Steak au poivre. Deliciously covered in pepper and cooked just to the medium rare side of rare. Yummy yummy. - Roasted vegetables. A little known secret - these potatoes, carrots, parsnips etc are actully cooked in duck fat, so don't pride yourself on being virtuous by ordering these. So good though. Totally worth it. - Profiteroles. What more can be said? Three perfect little pastries filled with ice cream and covered with chocolate sauce. Who could resist? - Almond butter cake with macerated berries. The perfect finisher to a night of good food. Warm, luscious almond butter cake served with whipped cream and the requisite berries, a delightful mouthful in every bite. Yes, we did eat way more than three people should have, but it was all so good and worth every bite. I would recommend ordering any/all of the items we tried.
(5)Stefan J.
We celebrated Christmas Eve here this year. As a neighborhood spot, nice to have close by. Simple but complete menu with all the standard choices and a few pleasant additions as starters and mains. Nice ambiance and professional/courteous staff. We enjoyed our evening, and with the generally poor Gold Coast restaurant scene to deal with, this is one we'll continue enjoying.
(3)Mary S.
Excellent French bistro! My husband and I have been here a handful of times and some were special occasions. The manager introduced himself our first visit and remembered us almost a year later. Recently we ate at the bar and had the to-die-for onion soup and the delicious mussels in white wine. Our bartender Lisa even surprised us at the end of dinner with a cupcake the staff had received from a near by bakery.
(5)Jay B.
Great food, staff and this has a distinct feel of a true french restaurant. I will be returning there next time I am in Chicago.
(5)Paul W.
Always a good option. Pleasant space, crowd pleasing menu, and prompt (though indifferent) service. French onion soup, salads and stew were good and presented nicely.
(3)Laura H.
I'm very fortunate to have a great friend in Chicago, who always takes me to the hot spots in Chicago. Bistrot Zinc is no exception. A standard french restaurant, I got the Caesar salad, french onion soup and bloody mary. All were pretty decent, and the french onion soup was cheesy and delicious. The wait staff was very helpful and attentive, which I appreciated! The restaurant has open windows, so you can sit inside/outside. Great people watching on the busy street. The restaurant is close to the water and lots of shopping in the area as well.
(3)Sarah J.
One of my favorite spots in the city! My family has celebrated quite a few events here, and everyone is always happy with Bistrot Zinc. If you're just stopping by for a drink and some appetizers, sit at the bar and try their delicious chips. They have the best french onion in the Chicago. The desserts are amazing.
(5)Alex R.
Bistro Zinc, a traditional, casual French joint with friendly, attentive service, is just the kind of place I love. Its the kind of place to sit at the bar for a glass of wine and an early afternoon snack. At the same time, it's the kind of place to bring an old friend for a fun, classic, reasonable dinner downtown. As I said, service is very attentive and very friendly. When I devoured the bread, more was almost immediately brought. My server was always there when I needed them, but I never felt rushed. Simple, unobtrusive, pleasant. The food is A-OK. Nothing is particularly memorable, but the menu is filled with classics that anyone versed in French Cuisine will find perfectly acceptable. Steak frites were a little off, the steak being oddly thin and somewhat tough, and the frites being a little soggier than I would prefer. At the end of the day, the place has a relaxed charm, and that will keep me coming back.
(3)Tory w.
I really like Bistrot Zinc. The ambiance is great - it looks just like the inside of a French cafe, which makes me yearn, but in a good way. I went there a few weeks ago with a large group on a Wednesday afternoon, so we were pretty much the only customers in the place. They were very friendly and accommodating. The food is always delicious as well. I have had lots of things on the menu - crepes, onion soup, croque monsieur, steak, and everything is good and fairly authentic. Their desserts are absolutely amazing - the chocolate mousse and chocolate cake in particular. I do feel that their prices are steeper than they should be - maybe it's the location, I don't know, but I do know that other French restaurants in Chicago have cheaper menus for the same items and the same if not better quality. Also, don't order the pear salad if you're hungry, it's tres petite!
(3)Z D.
One of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. I always bring family and they especially love the mussels. And, as East-coasters, we're picky about shellfish. I end up drinking more wine than I expect - so I will now always go with the bottle, not by the glass (ugh, that night was expensive).
(4)Michelle L.
This past week was my fourth time here. Every time I find the food to be French in the best way. I find the service to be perfect - not hovering but there when you need something. Our server knew the menu well, gave great recommendations on food and wine, and was attentive to the needs of our party. I wish I still lived in the neighborhood so I could go more often, but it makes it special to only go every once in a whIle.
(5)India K.
I'm no expert of french food BUT I did grow up around New Orleans and lived there for two years. We did a fair share of french and creole dining so I had a reference point going in. FIVE STARS for sweet ambiance with cheery yellow with simple and authentic decor. It is cute! French onion soup- huh? What is all the raving about. I say 2 stars and use it as the basis of the review. If you know french onion soup this will not impress you at all. If you don't know french onion soup then you will be a happy little camper. Coq au vin- dark meat chicken on the bone, served on egg noodles. I disliked the chicken and noodles but LOVED the broth???? Tis true. I ended up sopping up the broth with bread for the meal. Here's a surprise- the margaritas are root-tootin' good---go figure!?!
(2)Mihir P.
Bistrot Zinc should not participate in restaurant week. The service is sparse and rushed. Except for the bartender who was quite polite while we waited for our seats. The onion soup was standard, nothing special. The steak frite: steak was very thin and tough. Not very flavorful. The frite was more like deep fried potato shavings which were overcooked. No need to come back.
(2)Marjie T.
For whatever reason, I am always drawn to restaurants with red facades. I don't know why, I just always want to eat there. So, while looking for a restaurant along Rush, I spotted Bistrot Zinc and made reservations for dinner. Even though I made the reservations about 5:30 on a Friday night, there were still plenty available for the same night. We were doing some shopping prior and as we walked by around 6:00, I was shocked to see not a single patron inside. It was completely empty. I began to second guess my choice, but we still went and by the time we went back 30 minutes later there were at least a handful of table occupied. I'm really not sure why this place was so slow. Service was awesome, the food was pretty good, and the ambiance was romantic and classy. I opted for the trout with spinach and it was good, not great. The soup of the day was carrot ginger, which was really good. My mom had the pork and apple stew which she thought was also ok. I don't frequent French restaurants often so I'm not sure how this compares, but I would recommend it.
(4)Charlie P.
Dinner at Bistrot Zinc tonight was a disappointment. 2 Bistro steaks and pommes frites - what could be easier to deliver on for a French bistro? The pommes frites were just barely warm, rather greasy and both steaks were ordered medium rare, but served well done. Service was indifferent. Nice wine list. Nice room. Spend an extra $5 and take a cab north to Mon Ami Gabi where I've had this same dinner 100 times and have never been disappointed. I will never go back to Bistrot Zinc.
(2)Maram K.
2 French places in one week? Who'd a thought! Did I just start this review with a number? Bistrot Zinc is very well established in ambiance and service. Normally I don't care about ambiance, but I have to point this out as I'm used to the stuffy feel when dining at French cafes (note Froggy's in highland, it was rank). Coffee was great too. I joked that it reminded me of Vegas' Paris shoppes, but I kind of meant it. And I appreciated that nostalgia. We came here for brunch upon a friend's request as it has the "best quiche" he's ever had. Brunch menu was short and sweet. My fiance got the quiche of the day (mushroom and leeks) and I got the smoked salmon benedict. The benedict was perfect. Eggs poached perfectly, plenty of smoked salmon, and a muffin that you can actually cut through without breaking out the chainsaw. It was hard having to switch plates with my fiance when we both made it halfway through our dishes. But, alas, we did. My fiance's quiche. He lied. He ate more than half! But I understood why. It was incredibly fluffy and rich and the ingredients each stood out on their own. It definitely is up there in quiches I have tasted. Great experience, a bit pricey for brunch, but with that quality of food and service, I shall return.
(4)Sarah B.
Bistro Zinc has a great, small neighborhood feel even though it's in a high-tourist count area. The French fare gets good marks--especially the French onion soup and steak frites--as does the wine list. Service is consistent and attentive, but no more than you would expect for the area. I'm happy to go back but not sure I'd go out of my way to do so.
(3)Lauren W.
My little haven... away from the typical Rush Street crowd. I love, love, love coming here. My favorite dish is the quiche of the day. It comes with a petite salad which is the perfect serving amount. Combine that with a nice cup of coffee and there is nothing better for those lazy weekend days.
(5)Christine M.
If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. The food was really great. LOVED the ham and cheese sandwich. The turkey and brie cheese had a bit too much bread and too little turkey. Everyone at the table thought the 'fries' were 100 times better than the chips that were served with the turkey brie sandwich. Eggs Benedict was also a big hit, along with the spinach and brie crepe (VERY tasty). It's nice that one side of the menu is breakfast and the other is lunch. Desserts - chocolate mousse, chocolate cake with caramel sauce, creme brulee. Creme brulee was absolutely the winner. The chocolate is not as sweet as what I'm used to... The lighting was a bit too bright for my ideal ambiance, but the place was lively on a Sunday at noon. I'm not sure if that's the norm, as we were there on Mother's Day. Service was good, but they weren't overly warm and fuzzy. A 'Happy Mother's Day' with the check would have been nice :) Everyone seemed very happy with the decision to come here, though, and left very satisfied.
(4)Stephen F.
Dinner and service were fine. I don't have any major complaints, though the pomme frites I ordered never did make it out (we didn't need them anyway). On the other hand, I have no particular raves either. Everything was fine just... not especially distinguished in any way. I see no reason to come back, but no reason to avoid Bistrot Zinc either.
(3)Julie E.
Just like Frank says: nice and easy. I've enjoyed Bistro Zinc for years. It has a low-key, pretty bistro atmosphere, friendly and prompt service, and a small-ish menu with consistent quality food. My family's favorites: - moules in light cream sauce - authentic flavors and great for bread dripping. - French onion soup: can't go wrong. Almost everyone at the restaurant on a Wednesday evening had a mini crockpot on the table. - great salads and specials. My brother had grilled sardines and braised rabbit stew with egg noodles on a recent visit, and loved both. - great dessert menu. And definitely grab a handful of homemade thin, crispy waffle potato chips from the bar. Good, nice and easy.
(4)Charizard B.
I LOVED Bistrot Zinc!!! The atmosphere was great- nice lighting, soft music playing, and decor that makes me think of a bistro in France. We were seated quickly (it was a Tuesday night) and all the service was prompt and attentive, but not hurrying us along. I got the roasted chicken grand-mere and my friend got the salmon with a balsamic reduction and asparagus. They were both delicious- my chicken had a nice crust and was perfectly moist and flavorful. Our food came out really quickly too. We ordered the chocolate cake for dinner and it was AMAZING. We left extremely full and very very satisfied. Somewhat pricey, but very worth it.
(5)Andy R.
Great food, great ambiance - I laughed at the guy who wrote he didn't like the floor. And the bar is made of zinc, how cool.
(5)Greg M.
Quality food. Don't be tempted by the basket of yummy appetizers! Save room for the main course which is so yummy, really a cute quiet place to catch up with friends!
(5)Carl G.
Traditional French Bistro (in Chicago no less). Had lunch there on a nice late spring day. The restaurant has a large shuttered front, which, when open, makes dining near the front almost like dining on a patio. It's actually nicer as the climate is more controlled than a patio. The tables are a little close together, but that too is an authentic touch (it would be nice if rich people had more interesting things to talk about). I began with a bottle of sparkling water and the duck liver paté. The paté was smooth and creamy and was served with a mustard, some very crispy rounds, and some cornichons. I wasn't entirely convinced by the paté and I would have liked to have been told if it was made on premises, and, for that matter, if the cornichons were made on premises. That I had some doubt was to me an issue. The waitress did help me to chose another dish and that was helpful. I had salmon crepes, but the smoked salmon was served much too cold. I believe that the crepe was whole wheat, which is something I do not care for in a crepe, but I can see how some people do. It was accompanied by a coarse julienne of radish, capers, and some crème fraîche. The radishes were underpowered, which is odd since they could, conceivably, have been local short season radishes. A spicy note would have been welcome in the dish. I finished the meal with an almond cake and some coffee. The coffee was excellent and the almond cake was warm from the oven. It was served with whipping creme and some sliced mixed berries (unless I am very much mistaken, the menu promised me macerated berries and did not deliver). The berries were intensely weak. The strawberries only barely ripe and the blue berries a little past their prime. I did not eat more than a few before realizing that they were slightly musty. The restaurant was not tremendously busy, but the service was both slow and inattentive (though quite pleasant). I was annoyed enough by it to lower my usual 20% gratuity to 15%. I think the issue of slow service has come up in other reviews, so perhaps some work could be done on this area. The prices were reasonable for such a ritzy neighborhood. In the end, Bistrot Zinc is a quite valid little bistro, and its pleasant, unpretentious ambiance makes for a relaxed lunch.
(3)Vivian Y.
Enjoyed a nice brunch here - great for kids (there was a baby in our group) because there isn't a whole lot of noise and people. I really enjoyed the chicken and mushroom crepe - so good and so rich! husband has the eggs benedict - great sauce but portion was quite small for Chicago standards. If you're looking for a place in the tourist district, I can recommend this place! Will be back for dinner sometime!
(4)Sian C.
My favourite everyday French bistro in the city. The steak frites is very good and my husband had the croque Monsieur and lived it
(4)Nancy P.
What a charming French restaurant ! I really enjoyed the neighborhood feel, ambiance and the warm welcome from the staff. It was my first visit, and I was impressed with the flavors of the entrees (and my dining companions) . We all loved the place!
(5)Aurore L.
Where do two French people go for a business lunch?!?!? In a French bistrot, bien sur!! I arrived a little early, attempted an awful parking job in front of the restaurant (with tires loudly scratching the curb), moved the hell out of there to a nice spot a few feet further, ran in and sat down in a little piece of Paris while waiting for my fellow citizen. Bistrot Zinc is really spot on decor-wise...the atmosphere is quite authentic and highly reminiscent of some of the Parisian brasseries I visited in my time - minus the noise and crowd. I started to feel a little home-sick. Watching Bourdain eating wonders in Brittany the same night was not going to help much... It was cold and snowy and I should have known better than to order a salade nicoise. But it sounded damn good, and I didn't want to yield to the highly seductive but dangerous "poulet grand-mere". It would have been ideal though for a nostalgic day and this great concoction of roasted chicken, smoked bacon, potatoes, mushrooms, onions, roasted garlic and garlic-thyme jus would have fed my soul just as much as my body. But no. I had to second-take my plate when I received it to try to figure out if the chef had made a mistake and had placed a big chunk of green papier-mache on my plate. It looked.....unappetizing. I had forgotten that the tuna was 'marinated' in what I can only suppose to be herbs. Weird. Other deception: it wasn't big chunks of tuna. Just....tuna. Green tuna. Potatoes were very scarce: 3 little bites. I had much better salade nicoise, even in Wisconsin. No lie. The steak/frites of my lunch companion did look fine though, as were the profiteroles that we shared for dessert. Yep - we shared dessert on a business lunch....I guess it's the French way. I would probably give it another try if given a chance, but would go for heartier fare next time. And leave my calorie-counting books at home.
(3)Jims L.
I don't know - I wasn't impressed, I wasn't anything, not with the decor, the food, the service, the ambiance. Cute place for brunch.
(3)Insun M.
Pros: - Mussel appetizer: top 2 mussel plates I've ever had. Big flavorful mussels cooked just right in an amazing sauce that was perfect for dipping the crusty bread - Big portions. I hate leaving food on my plate but I was too full to finish. Cons: - The french onion soup was just ok. I love salty foods but the soup was too salty for even my taste buds. - My lamb sandwich was way too messy to eat. The lamb slices were sliced pretty thick so it was hard to keep clean with sauce, lamb, and bread crumbs all over my hands. - The chips that came with the sandwich shouldn't be called chips. They were not crispy at all but instead kind of chewy like it was taken out of the fryer too soon. Needless to say nobody at my table ate more than 1 "chip." - Service was at a bare minimum. We were never asked if we needed anything or if we enjoyed our meals but instead we had to try our best to flag our waitor down for more bread, check, etc. It could have just been our waitor though because the server for the table next to us was very friendly and accomodating to them. I'd give Bistrot Zinc another shot but for their dinner menu..and come back for the mussels!
(3)Luis E.
Excellent french rest. Just like eating in Paris!
(5)Dianna R.
Christmas Eve dinner out. Problem #1, you dine at a place that is so packed you think Santa my jump out of your a**. Problem #2, you dine at a place so empty EVERY waiter is staring at you so closely they could either spoon feed you your meal or rip out your eyeballs b/c they have a family too and frankly would rather tuck their kids in at night then watch your cholesterol go up a couple of points.... Happily I am proud to say that Bistro Zinc suffers from neither problem. My sister's ever-so-clever sister-in-law made a reservation for 9 on Christmas Eve for dinner here. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience. The atmosphere was lively and festive, not stuffy at all. My pino blanc was tasty as was the butternut squash risotto I split as an appetizer. My ratatouille crepe was divine and hit the spot (extra points for the goat cheese). Finally, I tried multiple desserts and they were all delightful! The only negative I could possibly say was they sat us at a long rectangular table, which wasn't as conversation friendly as say a nice big ole round table. Overall, great service, great food, Amazing and memorable Christmas Eve dinner! 5 STARS :)
(4)Whitney G.
The best onion soup I've ever had. Not salty at all. We also got the escargot as a mistake, but it was also really really good! The best part was the crepe au poulet. Probably the best crepe I've ever had. It had a sherry cream sauce that was to die for, and the chicken was tender and moist. Perfect! Make sure you bypass all those other swinging restaurants on N State and come to this one. You won't regret it.
(5)Brett O.
I stopped in here just due to a Groupon Now feature that they were running. Decided I should check it out since I am out of town from Seattle and yep, good choice. The wait staff is extremely well versed in the menu and how the dishes are prepared. I liked the fact that I could talk with them about the ingredients and get great recommendations. Food was very good. I had the stew of the day which was beef with a red wine gravy. The beef was fork tender and very flavorful. I would have liked just a little more robust flavor for the sauce, but the veggies were cooked perfect, not too soft like what can happen with stew. The mashed potatoes were well seasoned and the puff pastry was added for visual. Great dish overall though. I would recommend this place to any local in Chicago, or anybody visiting.
(4)S. H.
Having been to Paris many, many times I was a bit skeptical about this French restaurant. It met my highest expectations. A most authentic experience. The atmosphere is romantic and delightful. The food was excellent. My husband's steak frites was perfectly cooked, and my beef and tomato Vol a Vent was the best stew I've ever had. Kept the left-overs for 2 days (in a cooler) and ate them when I returned home--1,000 miles away.
(5)Dija S.
We loved this place so much we went back the next night. We sat at the bar and the service was wonderful. The bartender was funny, engaging and attentive. The atmosphere is very accessible, and so is the cuisine and the price. Appetizers range from 6-12 and I don't think I saw a dinner item that was over 25 (but don't quote me). I felt like this was the kind of place where you could really tailor your meal to be as expensive or as economical as you would like, and the wine list had breadth and depth in the range of options available. The first night, I had the tagine de legumes and my husband had the croque monsieur - very different dishes and both done perfectly. The next night, we shared the mussels which were prepared in a white wine sauce. Actually, we devoured the mussels because they were so good, and they give you this crusty french bread to shamelessly soak up the delicious white whine sauce. Yummmm.
(4)Kirsten A.
This place is a gem in the Gold Coast. Cute, grown up decor in bright reds makes you want to sit all day. The wait staff is mature, professional, and perfectly attentive, and the food was delish. I had a yummy ham and cheese sandwich that was toasted on the outside with a french toast like quality and super yummy sorbet for dessert. The frites were a little wimpy, but that was my only complaint. Bistroit Zinc is the perfect spot for any business lunch! We came at noon and it was pleasantly empty and perfect for chatting.
(4)Sara F.
I love this place for Sunday brunch. The food is solid, but that is not really why you come here. You can get an equally delicious brunch at LuxBar, Tavern, Yolk, etc. You come here for the quaint French cafe atmosphere. It is the perfect start to the last day of the weekend. The Croque Monsier is yummy, as is the burger with blue cheese. The Millas de Bordeaux (vanilla-cherry custard in pastry with caramel sauce) is awesome as a brunch dessert with a cup of hot coffee because it is a pastry, and therefore feels appropriate pre-noon. :) Warning: I am a huge Bloody Mary fan, but the Bloody Mary here tastes like shrimp cocktail sauce. FOR REAL. I told them this, and they replaced my drink with a glass of refreshing glass of Pinot Blanc, which was much appreciated.
(4)James J.
Dear Zinc, Good french brunch food in the viagra triangle. I'm a sucker for a good crepe and I found one this morning! The staff seems like they are well put together and ready for a full house. It's always nice when a restaurant's environment feels clean and organized. The OJ is totally home-made fresh squeezed and our waiter assured us that everything is home-made and fresh prepared. Four stars because I wanted a few more menu items. Some places pull off a small selection for brunch, this place needs a bit more... -Jimmy J
(4)I Love Good Foo D.
Service was okay, they can make it better by smiling when they serve. We were at this place for breakfast. We ord ered lamb sandwich- amazing, quiche that the server recommended - my friend loved it and french toast - little too sweet for my taste, but still amazing. Portion sizes look tiny but its pretty filling. I would go back maybe every few months. Its worth a try. Oh and the potato fries were amazing.
(3)Nicki W.
Not bad. Came to Zinc tonight with a friend before catching a flick. It's funny, because I lived above the place while I was in college and never dined. Four years later, I decided it was a good idea to come on by. The wine list is pretty good so that's a plus. Since I'm on a health kick I didn't want to indulge too much. I will say, the selection was pretty small and that's never a good thing in my eyes. I like some choices because most of the time I can be pretty indecisive. They had a lovely Zucchini Soup which was very flavorful and I also had the Goat Cheese Salad with Mixed Greens which was great as well. I realize that messing up a salad is hard, but the dressing was fantastic and clearly homemade. My friend on the other hand ordered the steak (which was a mistake). She had asked the waiter if their Medium Rare was true to temperature and he said it was so she decided to order Medium. Needless to say, the steak came out Medium Well and it was a let down. We aren't the type to send things back, so she ate it, but I could tell she wasn't happy. There seemed to be a bit too much fat on the steak and it was pretty "tough". Service was good. The bussers were quick to refill our waters and when clearing the plates. I was quite surprised by how welcoming the place was. I felt cozy and I like that feeling. I'll be back to try some of the other choices on the menu as well as brunch because who doesn't love brunch?
(4)Aaron B.
Today was the second time I've had the pleasure of eating at Bistrot Zinc. The first time was in the summer of '08 when I dined there with as friend. It was my first time eating escargot (I won't lie, we ordered it for the novelty) and once I was able to block out what it was that I was eating, it was quite delicious! I recall I also had a quiche that day and... well, I'm sure it was a wonderful quiche, but it turns out I'm not a quiche fan; it's a texture thing. Most recently I went back by myself on the day this review was written. I had the lamb sandwich for my entree and the Millas de Bordeaux (a vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce) for dessert. Hopefully I maintained a civilized facade while eating that dessert, but in actuality I was creamin' my pants. Wow. Bot times the service was wonderful; the wait staff is available to answer any questions and they're quick to buss your table when a plate is cleared. For French cuisine that won't break your bank, this is as good as it gets!
(5)Nikki L.
First of all, I have to say, it's hard finding GOOD French Onion Soup, there have been too many times the soup has been way too salty, not enough flavor or I get melted cheese on top, but luke warm soup in the middle. Needless to say, I was hesitant to order, but decided to just go for it. I was really pleased that not only was my soup piping hot the way I like it, but it wasn't too salty and the onions were nicely caramelized, balancing out the saltiness from the cheese. The salad I had was very standard, nothing fantastic and same with the desserts. The service was a bit snobbish in the beginning, but thankfully he finally warmed up towards the end. I may only come back for the soup, but nothing else.
(3)Jackie W.
O. M. G. I am just returning from one of the most exquisite meals I've had since I moved to Chicago a year ago. The house-made gnocchi with butternut squash (which I love!) and broccoli rabe actually made me want to shed a tear for such a light, well balanced dish. The only thing better was enjoying it with the bottle of Loire white that washed it down in an experience that can only be defined as true culinary bliss. My more health conscience friend had the grilled pork chop with swiss chard and was in equal foodie-heaven with these bites of perfection. We felt so strongly about our delightful meal that I asked Mark -- our 4 star worthy server -- to send over the manager so I could offer compliments on such an exquisite meal. (Sidebar: I asked Mark for a recommendation on both my entree & the dessert and he did an exceptional job!) Michael, one of the owners, came over right away and started discussing the preparation of our dishes and how they actually paired really well together! Of course, that meant that we started creating blissful bites by combining the cloud-like gnocchi with the tender pork. Ahhhh... such a delight! Finally, to make it even better, I asked for any dessert they would recommend and ended up with the bliss of the Millas de Bordeaux ~ heavenly phyllo dough with cherry vanilla custard. Y U M!!! My friend, who typically avoids dessert & all things sweet, was in foodie heaven right along with me upon enjoying this divine pasty. Overall, I was impressed with the menu, the knowledge of the server & friendliness of the owner, and the hands down phenomenal dance that happened directly on my taste buds tonight. I will definitely be back. Perhaps again this week. If only my time at the gym will be able to neutralize my new decadent treat. So flipping good... I'm still in foodie afterglow. :-)
(5)Hillary L.
Sometimes you need to treat yourself- especially when you have a crepe craving. And your Chicago Plus Card jumped out of your pocket somewhere on a bus. And someone used it so you had to cancel it... AND the new one still hasn't arrived 5-7 days later. Tuesday was one of those days, and I had been eying Bistro Zinc each time I go up and down State. I think the fact that is was easy walking distance finalized the decision. I decided to sit at the bar, and Jon was very attentive, filling my water up at least 20 times because those glasses are so ridiculously small. What started out as just ordering the spinach and brie crepe (good, but too thin of a consistency for me) turned into a "I'm going to treat myself to whatever I want." So I also ordered the soup of the day (mushroom, very good and homemade, perfect consistency), a glass of red wine (Jon helped me decide, he also poured me a little bit more when I was running low and didn't charge me), and chocolate mousse (ok but I've had, and made, better). I left in a much, much better mood than when I came in. Jon the bartender was fantastic, noticing when I didn't want to chat and when I did. It seemed like two or three regulars trickled in while I was eating dinner, and he knew what to pour them and suggested what they might like to try next on the menu. Overall a fantastic experience, the crepe was a bit disappointing, which was my main reason for coming in, but I would definitely come back and try more from the menu... hopefully with my Chicago Plus Card in hand.
(4)Gabby H.
This is standard bistro fare: good selection of wine, all the French basics, above average preparation. I'm never disappointed in Bistro Zinc but I never leave thinking, "Now, that was a great meal!". And, honestly, I think that's fine. Bistrot Zinc wouldn't be out of place on a quiet side street in Paris.
(3)Matthew M.
We stumbled past this place while bar hopping and decided to give it a shot. DC and I both love French food, so this was a no-brainer. The decor is very Parisian and authentic. I nearly said "merci" to the man who held the door for us on our way in. The food was delicious. I ordered an item not explicitly on the menu, and they made it no problem. The portions were huge, both what we ordered and what we saw others eating. The cuisine and atmosphere were so authentic that I momentarily thought we were in Paris until i looked out the window and saw a Barnes and Noble. I'm only giving BZ four stars because despite my glowing review, the food i ordered was pretty simple. When I get the opportunity to try other items on the menu that are more complex than grilled cheese, I will certainly add the final star.
(4)Tomas H.
Service is key to me - 2nd to food... We had a late lunch... Pate plate to start... Great atmosphere, music... Food runner had absolutely no personality & was rude, for example, when I asked what the different cheeses were, he looked at me, shook his head, said he didn't know and I would have to ask our server & walked away! Our server was short at first but when the Manager showed up on the floor, his tune changed and was friendlier. The water glass went empty for awhile but at least the food was good. I might return but next time, I will call the management to request better service before I make my reservation.
(2)Nancy H.
Hate to be a downer, but everything except the food is great. I went for my first time and ordered the steak frites (steak + fries) because it was pictured on their $25 coupon and because the word "frites" just tickles me. Disappointingly, it tasted like yesterday's impromptu BBQ leftovers. My dad cooks a much meaner steak than that. Perhaps French people like their steaks thin and dry with just a pat of seasoned melted butter? My friend ordered the salmon with mushrooms and turnip "mashed potatoes," which wasn't appetizing either. On the other hand, the appetizer mussels in a buttery broth were delish! They were plump and clean. Entrees range anywhere from $14-24 which is a fair price to pay for what you think would be stuffy food. On the upside, the atmosphere at Bistrot Zinc is just perfect for any intimate setting. The lighting is dim, the window up front opens up to the sidewalkers on State Street, and the tile floors make you feel like you're in a hole-in-the-wall local diner in France. The service here is also superb; we didn't have to ask for a single thing. And best of all, they let a party of old friends stay till 11 PM without rushing us.
(3)Shelley A. D.
We took the kids to celebrate Father's Day. Just like our last visit-- the staff was incredibly attentive and polished that made us feel special but not overly formal. The food was outstanding. The pacing of the meal and service was perfect. I suspect we will be returning again and again. Thank you Bistro Zinc!
(4)Steven M.
Met some friends here for lunch on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. All the restaurants in the Viagra Triangle were overflowing with people. Half a block north and this place had a hand full of patrons. So we walked in and the guy scanned me from head to toe, I knew immediately what I was in for. Fickle queens with an attitude! The place is not that big so when he walked us to the back of the restaurant I thought that we were going into the kitchen. There were plenty of empty 4 bangers in the front by the windows as well as on the way to our table. I did not say a word because I did not want to ruin the day for everyone else. But it did piss me off when they seated couples at a table for 4. And when our friends arrived they asked if we requested to be seated in the alley? That is why I took off two stars. On to the food. I had the nicoise salade, which consisted of marinated tuna, potatos, hard boiled eggs, white anchovys and tomatos in a lemon vinaigrette. It was delicious and I would recommend it to anyone. The service was great also. But there is a reason the restaurant was empty. I can't imagine having this person greeting my customers by checking them out prior to seating them. Grow up and have some respect so they just might come back.
(3)Autumn O.
Here's the scoop of the century: If you don't know GOOD food, this is your kind of place. I know good food, and therefore this is not my kind of place. The fiance and I were wandering downtown on a random and lovely snowy evening after work. "EEGADS" says he... "KRIMENY" says I... Then in unison: "I'M HUNGRY"! We wandered here and there and all around the square, eventually stumbling into Bistrot Zinc as the sleet began to fall. One decent (of course overpriced) bottle of wine, a shared entree of pan seared trout with caper sauce and sauteed spinach as well as a large bowl of parsnip soup later, we found ourselves rolling our eyes. This was mostly at the patrons of the establishment who seemed to be completely won over by the fancy words on the menu and the kitchy "French" styled interior. Clearly most of the people who frequent the Bistrot are not exactly foodies, and thus are certain to be dazzled with the overpriced and underspiced fare. What's not to love (roll of the eyes please) about small-ish portions, relatively bland dishes of food and poor spacing between tables all for a price that you can bet-yer-bottom-dollar you'll be wishing you hadn't paid later? This sounds harsh but that is that. Sub par excellence, monsieur. Adieu.
(2)Bonnie A.
I came here for Valentine's Day, It has a very romantic ambiance. The service was good and the food was delicious. I had calf liver and it has a very unique taste and texture. At the first bite, the texture was similar to steak but then it became more of gelatinous. We had almond buttered cake with macerated berries. It was really good.
(5)Ellen S.
I have been coming to this place for over 10 years. I can't believe I haven't written a review yet. I was very disappointed when the Lakeview location closed. This place is great. Some of the dishes don't really sound that good but they are. My favorite is the white anchovy salad with grilled chicken. Also, the French toast is the best on earth. They also have the best chocolate mousse anywhere. I am not usually a big chocolate mousse person but this one is perfect. Not heavy, not bitter, the perfect amount and texture.
(5)Maureen F.
A great introduction to French bistro fare. Of the few times I've been here, everything has been outstanding. The moules mariniere is perfect. Our waiter was totally gracious the one night when we just ordered that for two with a bottle of wine but for this night we also got two entrees. My partner had the steak frites, nearly licking the plate once he was done. I had the vol au vent en croûte, the stew that night being a red wine veal stew which was phenomenal -- earthy but not too reliant on beef stock for the flavor. The meat just melted which was perfectly paired with flaky puff pastry and creme fraiche mashed potatoes. The dessert is really why I keep coming back. Everything is wonderful. The millas de bordeaux seems small but it packs a punch without being too sweet with excessive caramel sauce. The gateau au chocolat is pure decadence. I've had dreams of this dense and fudgey cake.
(4)Lauren M.
As a current Evanston resident, I'm not very familiar with the Gold Coast area. However a lovely Sunday brunch with an out-of-town friend and a recommendation from a random stranger brought me to Bistrot Zinc. As soon as you walk in the door you know you are in for an experience. Not only does the decor take you away to a Parisian bistrot, but so does the food. I would highly recommend the potato-fennel soup combined with a half-sized apple sandwich. A tasty blend perfect for a chilly autumn day. I can't wait to go back and try some of the other menu items that sounded so good. It was definitely hard to decide what to get.
(5)FatmanStan F.
Dare I say incredible? I lived on the upper west side of NYC for four years next to the most charming unassuming French bistro there called Cafe Du Soleil. Really grew to be love about French cuisine. I just moved back to Chicago a week ago, didn't think I would find something incredible so soon. I had the scallop, they were ok, I've had better. The ox tail risotto was out of this universe. really cozy decor and moderately warm staff. Will be back.
(4)Mark H.
Mushroom Chicken Crepe for lunch. Hmmm? Was tempted by the bartender who persuaded me with a generous Vodka on the rocks drink. I figured....It was Friday afternoon. The warm summer breeze. The window doors were wide open, people were happy passing by. Y not try chicken w/ pancake?! Well, the presentation was just that. But after my initial awkwardly timid bite... I was hooked. The mushy yet slosh y cream with the soft crepe and chicken combination prepared by the chef made my taste buds crave more and more until I inhaled it while still leaving on the table a half glass of my liquid fuel?!!! Yup. Y not 5 stars than. It was a business date. Company matters. Sorry Bistrot Zinc otherwise it would be 5.
(4)Kathleen M.
Stopped in for our final meal while in Chicago and it was just lovely. We got there pretty early for brunch, right when they opened, and it was pretty quiet. The windows along the street were open, they had fresh flowers on the tables, and I almost felt like I was back in France. While my sister waxed poetic about the french toast, I couldn't deny the Croque Monsieur. I've had a hard time finding a decent version of the sandwich in Atlanta so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to get my hands on a good one. I don't regret my decision in the least. The sandwich was the right amount of creamy and crunchy, fatty without being greasy, and as decadent and flavorful as I could hope. The skinny fries were equally addictive. Our server couldn't have been nicer and everyone in my crew seemed delighted with their dishes. Chicago has so many delicious eateries it will be hard to pick what to hit up on my next visit, but Bistrot Zinc will likely be on my short list.
(5)Mrs. F.
Because they have a limited and standard French menu, this restaurant has been able to concentrate on perfecting their recipes. I've always enjoyed the Poulet Grand Mere, the trout, and the salmon. I tried the steak frites as well, but found it too salty, which is why I took it down a star. The wine list is very god, but desserts are a bit pricey, so opt in favor of something more traditional than profiteroles or chocolate mousse. Delicious and reasonable with excellent service. A footnote: expensive valet parking ($14 plus tip) comes along with being in the Rush Street area.
(3)Kirsten H.
First time trying a freshwater fish - the walleye. It was amazing!!
(5)Lia V.
Cute! Total french bistro feel - went on a Saturday afternoon with my cousin. It's in a great location to go shopping afterwards. Had a glass of champagne and half a turkey sandwich with french onion soup and homemade chips. The soup had way too much cheese in it, but really... is that so bad? It tasted really good. The turkey sandwich was good too - it had some fig jam on it or something. Cheap lunch. Staff wasn't the best or anything. I don't think our server actually ever introduced himself - maybe he was just having an off day. I'd recommend going if you're in the area.
(3)Terry F.
A good place to stop by for a quick cocktail and a chat. I didn't try the menu, but the diners there all looked satisfied. The bartender wasn't very attentative, but the drink was poured properly.
(3)Megan F.
My first time here was for Sunday brunch. Everyone I was with left saying what a lovely French bistro Bistro Zinc was and it really is. Since then, I have been back several times and have loved it every time. The Vegetable Chickpea and Tomato Stew is a favorite of mine as well as the Mussels. A friendly waitstaff is extremely attentive. The atmosphere is nice - just what you think of for a traditional French bistro - red and yellow color motif. Tables are packed together but it lends to the cozy, warm inviting atmosphere. I highly recommend checking this place out!
(5)Peter D.
Came in late and got a great meal fast. I sat at the bar and I got right to business and it was one of the best if brief times. The bartender was friendly and we chatted for a good while and they all gave me good points of places to try. I got served bread with yummy butter to start and it was very good. I ordered the Steak Frites and it arrived fast which was great since I was starved. I chowed hard and fast and I left a happy camper. I can tell you that this place is on my list to return to again and again. Its right in the middle of a lot of bars and restaurants and there is also great people watching. You can get a great dinner here and then go enjoy an evening of people watching the cougars and the creepy old farts on the prowl. Awesome! I recommend you eat here. Please, if alone sit at the bar. Its the best!
(4)Lori S.
Love BZ. It's our neighborhood favorite. Friendly staff - excellent food - and they don't rush you along. We will be back many many times.
(5)Chris G.
Few regrets... I have few in life -- but admittedly, passing Bistro Zinc up as much as I have over the years until today's lunch certainly counts as one. We love to lunch as early as possible in order to beat the crowds and arrived a few minutes before the scheduled 11:30am opening. Our server was cheery, generous and patient as we had a hard time picking from many of the tantalizing apps and entrees. We settled on escargot and french onion soup to start and my friend chose the salmon gruyère quiche and me, the pan fried trout over a bed of cooked spinach capers and cherry tomatoes as the entree. We rocked the chunky escargot and sopped up all its buttery juices and soup with fresh bread. The quiche was mouthgasmic with it's buttery middles and heads-of-state worthy crust. The pan fried trout tasted just-caught and perfect over a steamed spinach bed with capers and tomatoes. It beamed, white, yet slightly buttery and crispy. We had tears in our eyes and were in need of this culinary fix on a dark, bleak, icy Chicago Monday morning. Just as we approached Bistro Zinc, the sun came out and all was well in our world. We debated over dessert and after mulling a few different options chose chocolate mousse balls and also their almond butter cake with macerated berries. Now I don't know what the hell macerated really means exactly but these berries were very rich tasting... almost marinated in a rich watermelon juice as my friend noted, wonderfully. The cake was reminiscent of my elders cooking old-fashioned tea cakes and was most wonderful and complex.--hot out of the oven. It was a struggle to keep my shoes on and remain seated in my chair in a civil fashion. I was definitely having a moment! The exact blend is a "state secret" but they brought to the table a fresh pot of Intelligensia decaf. Panamanian and Guatemalan beans are in there and it was the best cup(s) of coffee I've had. If that wasn't the kicker, we left with a complimentary $25 gift certificate for dinner. NEW. BIG. FANS. Waistlines be damned. :)
(4)Cliff F.
We stopped in on a Monday around 8pm strictly for a night cap and a little dessert to finish our evening. We were greeted promptly with a smile. I informed the maitre d that this was a simple night cap and dessert stop to curb our sweet tooth. He seated us at a two top in the front of the restaurant to enjoy the street views and take in the cool Chicago summer evening. Our server came over very promptly gave us a dessert and cocktail menu explained the dessert specials the chef had prepared for the day. We opted to share a plate of the profiterole's and two glasses of Bordeaux. The dessert was wonderful and paired with the very average house Bordeaux it was even better. The decor, the ambiance, and the quaint little bistro table overlooking the bustling street made this a delightful ending to a wonderful evening. I will add that a house made vanilla bean Ice cream was served with the profiterole's, which was very good! However I decided to get an order to go with house made creme fraiche and it was so much better...
(4)Michelle P.
Great escargot, cocktails, and risotto. Quaint but vibrant atmosphere. Definitely a great date spot or for a night out with the girls.
(4)Elise P.
This place is so cute. I came in for brunch and the food was delicious. My friend and I split the burger and the french toast. I loved the brunch food, and the place wasn't crowded at all. Even on a Sunday morning. I want to come back for dinner. The French onion soup looked amazing. I'm bummed I didn't try it. But I will definitely be back!
(5)Rachel S.
Went here over the weekend with my boyfriend and his dad. Selected the place based off Yelp reviews and was not disappointed. To start, we had the mussels which were in a tasty cream sauce that was great to dip bread into. For my main, I had the L'onglet Steak, which was cooked perfectly and very tasty. It came with green beans that were crunchy, adding some freshness to the plate, and cauliflower gratin that was cheesy and delicious. Boyfriend had the grandmother's chicken, which was really good, and his dad was also pleased with the meal he ordered. The wine we selected with the help of the knowledgeable wait staff went great with the food, and was reasonably priced. For dessert, we had the profiteroles a la glace. the chocolate sauce was the best part of the dessert, for sure! The atmosphere is cozy, and would be perfect for a date, outing with close friends or family. Would highly recommend!
(5)Benjamin H.
Great people watching spot in Gold Coast. The chips at the bar are great, the bread and butter are yummy (and never ending), the cocktails are also very solid and the wine is reasonably priced. Excellent service with very good food and a low-key (but mature) vibe.
(4)Lindsey O.
How is this place 4/5 stars? I love french food, but maybe I just ordered the wrong thing at Bistrot Zinc. My group sat at the bar and ate the heavily oil drenched, salt-less chips and hard boiled eggs, and I decided to order something before drinking more. I ordered a vegetable crepe with goat cheese. Absolutely nothing to rave about. The veggie crepe tasted exactly like that - the veggies were covered in cooking oil, no garlic or additional flavors (the menu says they add basil, but I couldn't taste it), and a little dollop of goat cheese. Overall, it was unmemorable. The bar tender however was a sweetheart, and I would go back to buy more drinks from her prior to heading out.
(2)Clara C.
My dining companion and I came in here off of the Yelp reviews and were not disappointed. Ambience: Fancy ish, cute little French restaurant. Service: Very professional and quick. Never once had to look around for the server. Food: -Chicken & mushroom Crepe- was perfect, not too creamy and the perfect fluffiness -Veggie Tajine w/ couscous- I loved this dish. The couscous was a good texture and the veggies that came with it accompanied the couscous perfectly. -Chocolate mousse dessert- Heaven on a dish. The mousse was a perfect frothy fluffy texture. Exactly what I imagine clouds in heaven should taste like. The chocolate was very rich, but at the same time not heavy.
(5)Evelyn M.
My husband and I had a delightful birthday dinner here. The atmosphere was lovely, it was very French bistro in feel, with an old-fashioned touch, beautiful wood and brass trim, lots of mirrors, walls painted a gently warm cream color, and vintage posters and prints in frames. Food was really delicious, from the French Onion Soup to the trout to the dessert. loved everything. Service was warm and attentive
(5)Jennie C.
Came here on a Sunday night with a big group of people. Our waiter was very attentive and patiently awaited our indecisiveness and numerous questions. We started with octupus salad and mussels. The salad was nice and refreshing, but the mussels was what blew me away: I'd never seen mussels so plump! On top of that they were also cooked to perfection, bathed in a buttery broth that we couldn't stop dunking bread in. For entrees we had the skate, pork Milanese, trout, beef stew and steak & frites. All of which were perfectly cooked, though one could argue the food is not as aggressively seasoned as most restaurants. It was the perfect amount of seasoning for me, but I have a lighter palate, so some people may find it on the bland side. Bistrot Zinc's downfall was in dessert. Everyone at the table ordered creme brulee, except me, who went with the profiteroles. The brulee was standard fare, the profiteroles were tough, dense, and doused with too much chocolate sauce. I'd stick with their food and go elsewhere for dessert, perhaps a gelato by the fountain?
(3)Lola K P.
Delightful old-school French bistro, very clean and bright-feeling, comfortable. I've come by for brunch with a few girlfriends, and a Bastille day dinner with a group of ten, and both were very lovely. Service was prompt and friendly. The food was quite good. Both times were great, and I would definitely return.
(4)Lori M.
Delightful Our first visit here on Easter. Charming decor and a warm day allowed for open air dining, bringing the feel of Paris even closer. Eggs benedict with smoked salmon quite extraordinary and prepared to perfection. Service was outstanding! We look forward to our next visit!
(5)Connie Y.
Food was really good! I was pleasantly surprised given that my experiences at any French restaurant is typically met with a bit of disappointment. Went there with some friends for brunch and got the french onion soup and lamb sandwich with grilled onion, watercress, and rosemary aioli which were both delicious. It was quite filling as well. The ambiance was nice for a Saturday morning. There were not a whole lot of people which is a nice change from most other brunch places where it can be loud and difficult to hear people at your own table due to all the noise. The overall staff was quite nice. Our server was okay. To be honest, not as great as I would have expected from such an establishment.
(4)Anya C.
Good French toast, good bread, good escargots
(4)Helen Y.
my bf and I went here on a dinner, we didn't put down reservations ahead and it was very easy for us to be seated. After we sat down, a waiter soon came over and offered us the menu, however, he didn't offer to explain the menu or had the courtesy to ask us if we had been here and needed any recommendation. after we ordered, they brought us a small plate of bread without any butter or olive oil, how are you suppose to eat that? my bf needed to go and find a waiter and asked them to bring us olive oil. the food was brought to us very quickly, we ordered an fried eggplant appetizer, steamed mussels and an entree of the liver. the food was good, not amazing though. overall, the food is just OK and the service really sucks.
(3)Megan G.
Went here for Valentine's Day dinner last night. We primarily had the specials, which were all good, but not as French as I would have assumed because we were at a mostly french restaurant. I'd love to go back for the crepes or the mussels (or maybe the croque monsieur)! The wine list is pretty good, and I'm always a sucker for the bread that always seems to keep coming. Plus the waiter only laughed at me a little bit when I asked for a cup of coffee once he came and greeted us (I'm on nights right now, hence the post-Valentine's Day late night post).
(4)Joyce H.
Came here New Years Day for brunch. It's a very cute, bright French cafe that seems to attract a lot of people from the neighborhood. I saw waiters / bartenders behind the counter conversing with people about the daily news. There seemed to be an overall friendly atmosphere. I shared the escargot dipped in butter sauce with friends -- very rich and fresh! I enjoyed that very much. Having just become a pescetarian, I had their roasted vegetable puree soup and the ratatouille crepe. The soup was the right amount of creaminess, and the puree was very tasty. The combination of the soup + crepe turned out to be on the salty side though. That's really my only issue. I tasted the French onion soup -- great flavor and the cheese was special, but let's just say they were very generous with the amount that they topped on the soup.
(3)Gigi G.
The French onion soup is Delish! Great Ambiance. Amazing staff.
(5)Kiki W.
The good: The service is great and the atmosphere is charming. The mediocre: Everything was almost right. The food was well-cooked, but under-seasoned and uninspired. They rely too much on butter and cream for flavor, rather than actually seasoning the food properly. Having said that, a little salt here and a little lemon there greatly improved the dishes. But for the price, I rather expect my food to emerge without needing additional help. If you're looking for a place to take your non-foodie Aunt & Uncle from Wisconsin or Iowa after a long day shopping on Michigan Avenue, Bistrot Zinc works fine. If you're looking for a stand-out bistrot meal, take a pass.
(3)Dennis B.
Went here 1/11/13 This was a nice little place. Even though it was french, I wasn't to excited over the menu. For starters I had the escargot which was decent but needed more garlic. Then the anchovy salad to me was a bit bland. It had a anchovy vinaigrette for dressing. I wouldn't recommend anyone getting this unless you're really into anchovies. For the entree I got the roasted chicken which I wasn't that impressed with, especially for the price. All in all the decor was nice, staff was friendly, and the was food mediocre. I went on a Friday night around 6pm and the place was pretty empty. I paid about $40, no drinks. There's a lot of other places in Chicago where I could've gotten the same thing for less than $20, but I guess part of that price is location. Nice experience, but I won't be going back. It is a great place for people watching if you sit by the windows.
(3)James H.
Tasty and hearty selection of dishes. Service was great as well. It boasts a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere without being too snooty (parisian). I will always recommend the escargot, regardless of what else you order. Be kind. Take your time. Tip your waiter. Enjoy.
(4)Susie L.
Food is terrific. The soup de jour always pleases. The quiche lorraine was perfect. The smoked salmon benedict was the perfect portion (not too huge, and just elegant). The servers are very friendly, quick, and knowledgable. When I casually asked about the Restaurant Week menu... they actually printed one on the spot and bound it in a clear menu holder for me to read it. This place is very cozy, classy, romantic, and feels like you're in France for little bit. Excellent!
(5)Jinx T.
Très Magnifique A friend raved about the liver and onions dish here - and raved so much and so frequently - I was prompted to stop in and give it a try. What a magnificent dish! And to do it justice - here's the actual description: Foie de Veau - Sauted calf's liver, smoked bacon, fried onions, crème fraîche mashed potatoes, port sauce. I paired this dish with a Gin Martini - done beautifully - with perfectly noticeable vermouth - served with two beautifully skewered plump green olives. In addition, the room and the service was a delight! Highly Recommended!
(5)Evan S.
Welcome to 2012, my Yelp buddies. This year will be a wonderful one in many ways. I plan to do a great job of staying on top of my reviews this year, and also have some things in store. Stay tuned for a new list that I'll be working on. Now, on to Bistrot Zinc. This quaint little French spot wasn't a premeditated dinner, an elaborate date, or a scheme to impress any old girl. It was simply a random choice for a late dinner after a night out at First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art. We needed food at a good price and BZ was highly rated. So we sat down around 9:30/10 to a relatively empty place with friendly service and class. I ordered a Chardonnay, and Tarra T. kept to the water (she was already feeling a good buzz). The meals: she had the burger, which was very flavorful and on a Hawaiian bun (if I recall correctly). The main drawback: it was heavy on the bleu cheese, which was pretty overpowering. I had the beef short ribs (I mother effin LOVE a short rib!). They were flanked with mashed potatoes and carrots, rightly sized, not too filling but left me very satisfied. We shared the mushroom soup for starters, which was full and flavorful. We were in and out with ease, enjoyed great meals, and found a nice little random walk-in spot in the Viagra Triangle.
(3)Will G.
I don't eat french cuisine often, but I really enjoyed my meal here. We had mussels to start, which came in a very tasty broth. I had the pork and apple stew, which, while it was a little on the heavy side, had good flavor. The other members of the party had the tagine and the pork chop w/ rhubarb; both of which were good, though I preferred the latter.The service was very friendly, unpretentious, patient, and informed, and the waiter picked a nice wine to pair with my dinner. The atmosphere was nice, and intimate, not too crowded and you could have an actual conversation. I would definitely go back..
(4)Scott M.
One of my favorite spots in the city. I go back every visit. The French onion soup is one of the best ever, bar none! Always pleasant staff and the french bistro décor is perfect for relaxing and catching up with good friends!
(5)Morgan S.
Great French food in a relaxed setting. We shared the mushroom and chicken crepe to start as it was listed under small plates. It was amazing, but HUGE. We took 1/2 of it to-go. Next courses were the goat cheese salad and the salmon with lentils (special). Both were great. Creme brulee for dessert. Our server was incredibly helpful, especially with wine selections.
(4)Paridhi N.
On a fine Sunday morning, husband and I went for brunch .. And needless to say, the food was fresh and delicious. I had mushroom and leek quiche and husband had fruit and yogurt crepe. I am glad we live couple of blocks away from this restaurant. Looking forward to make frequent visits. Excellent ambience. Laid back. Good music. Good service.
(4)Gail B.
Great French food for a great price! Pleasant experience. Even the small plates were plenty to eat. The food is reasonably priced but the wine is all on the high side. It would be nice if they had some other affordable wines.
(4)R C.
Bistro Zinc is a fantastic place to get lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is great, and the staff is wonderful. The prices are comparable to other Chicago restaurants. HIghly recommend!
(5)Stephanie W.
I came here with a friend, very excited by the outside decor and expecting to be blown away. For the most part, the food was very "meh". I had steak frites and wasn't particularly impressed with the steak or the frites. The service was great but the food was a bit of a disappointment.
(3)Janine A.
Unfortunately, I have to give Bistro Zinc 2 stars due to the extremely poor service. The food was decent and the waiter started off great but it all went steeply down hill. He was a self proclaimed ninja due to the way he snuck in to refill water and coffee at first. He clearly has difficulties managing more than one table. We felt completely neglected and our time there was unnecessarily prolonged. We felt as if he was blatantly ignoring us. Will not be back here for a looong time.
(2)Dallas F.
A quiet French restaurant seemed like the perfect place to escape the Gold Coast frenzy during Cinco De Mayo and that's how I wound up at Bistrot Zinc. Initially, we were just looking for a place to have dessert, but upon seeing the menu we just had to order more food. I ordered the Onion soup which was divine. I often find when I order French Onion soup its either too salty and straight from the Campbell's can and drowned in cheese to cover the taste, but that was not the case here. The soup was a perfect balance of saltiness and a hint of sweetness from what I assumed was sweet onions. The gruyere cheese baked on top didn't overpower the soup and it was just all around lovely. I also sampled a few of their mussels steamed with white wine. I love mussels and these were great! When it was finally time to order dessert, the reason for going to Bistro Zinc, I ordered the almond butter cake with macerated berries. I almost started this review by raving about how amazing the cake was. The berries were a nice touch and all, but the cake itself, I almost have no words! So rich and flavorful without being too heavy. Simply splendid. Everything about my dining experience here was great. The service was friendly, prompt and detailed. I can't wait to return to try the Poulet Grand-mere!
(4)Chloe Z.
Such a cozy bistro for legit French food! The waiters are super nice. they seat you, bring you water/ bread just in time,and are SUPER knowledgeable about the wines. our waiters for the night is a French and you can tell he has a passion for the food he is serving i got the sauteed calf liver paired with mashed potato, fried onions, and red wine sauce. It was the perfect match with the perfect paring of textures. I got a dessert wine which is also fantastic! will def come back more often Update- I asked , via e-mail, the owner about the wine I had last night. he was so friendly and he went out of his way to help me figure out! definitely a plus!
(5)Amy S.
This is a really cute Paris-feeling bistrot. The dishes are hearty and make you feel like you are in some place outside of the gold coast. My favorite item is here is the stew; it is rich in seasoning and the bread is fresh. It's just a nice little gem that doesn't attract the typical tourists (as Mortons/Gibsons/Tavern on Rush do).
(4)Nicole C.
I've been a long-time fan of Bistrot Margot on Wells, so I felt like I was "cheating" on my French bistrot when I had lunch at Zinc today. But, I'm so glad I did. I had the soup and sandwich lunch special (see photo). The truffled egg salad sandwich was good -- although heavy on the butter lettuce, light on the egg salad and I didn't taste the truffle. The onion soup was DELISH! It is served in an over sized ramekin (I did miss the mini cast iron dishes at Margot). Thick, dark, full of flavor and topped with a heavy hand of gruyere cheese. Yum! And, they have really good coffee. :)
(4)Michael D.
WE ALWAYS visit Bistrot Zinc when visiting Chicago..a bit of France in the windy city. Try the roasted chicken!! And the people are great!!!
(5)Chris G.
Great food, great service, great atmosphere. We had the sandwich soup combination for lunch. The onion soup was quite a bit of food for me and I didn't care for so much cheese. I really liked my egg salad sandwich. The service was amazing. We went back for dinner. I had the trout and my wife had the lamb. We loved them both! I had the crepes for desert and was not disappointed.
(5)Melissa B.
We decided to try this out for Restaurant Week this year. It wasn't my favorite, but overall I liked it. I think I was just a little uncomfortable at the table we were given, which started me off on the wrong foot. Our table of four had the onion soup, pate and goat cheese for our starters. I think we all agreed that the goat cheese was the winner. The pate wasn't bad, but I'm not really a fan. The onion soup was a little heavy on the cheese, and I love cheese! I can't speak for the other girls entrees. I was stuffed by that point and didn't share. I had the Steak frites. Other than the fact it was cooked medium well as opposed to medium it was delicious. Desserts were all wonderful! I loved my almond cake. Wine list was nice and very reasonable as well. Service was nice. Completely honest though...I've had better service. If the service were a little more friendly I'd return a lot faster.
(4)Andrew N.
Great atmosphere for the girlfriend's birthday! Of all the restaurants in the area this one was the most reasonable and the food was delicious. I had the steak, and it was great. We will be back!
(4)Nate H.
In my 4 day visit to Chicago, I went to Zinc twice! I love this place! I have never sat at a table, because the bar is so beautiful and the bartenders are wonderful. First, you are welcomed by thick crunchy waffle cut potato chips continually made in the kitchen and delivered in front of you in nice long wicker baskets. Treat yourself to one of the hard boiled eggs while you sip a cocktail and read the menu. Traditional bistro fare here, so whenever at a French bistro, I try the liver and onions. Usually comes with a red wine reduction sauce and mashed potatoes. This one did not disappoint! I would have appreciated a thinner slice of liver, but this is Chicago, and everything is served larger, so I adapted. I quickly learned to trust my bartender, Jason, so I just told him to bring me a great glass of red - he delivered perfectly. My dessert of was accompanied by a surprise from Jason - a Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur that just sent me over the edge of a great evening out. Some day I might actually get a table...well, maybe not.
(5)Evan Thoreau H.
Ooh la la. C'est la vie. Uh-huh-ha. We were out the other night looking for a taste of classic French bistro cuisine and saw some good things about Zinc. Now, the inner Camus in me is struggling between three and four stars for a variety of reasons. I think another visit might clear that up, but with so many great bistros to choose from, dare I come back? Ah, the never-ending struggle yet again. So let's just get down to the Bons and Mals. Bon: -Atmosphere: by far the best part about the place. From the second you step up to the front door, you feel like you're entering a comfortable old bistro next to the river Seine. Inside it only gets better, with dim lighting, classic Parisian art and design, tucked away booths and spartan tables. You just feel like you're back in Paris. Loved it. -Bar/Wine: I like how the wine list was non-pretentious. Just good pours (many by the glass) of tasty, yet affordable French wines. The bar itself is obviously the centerpiece of the restaurant, as it's a classic Zinc topped bar (Bistrot Zinc, get it?). Bartender was polite and friendly and I thought the little tree of hardboiled eggs at the bar gave it an eggs-ceptionally authentic feel (that pun can go in the 'mal' category). Mal: -Price: Now, everything is relative, so don't get me wrong here. I don't think the prices are outrageous - especially for French dining - but they are a tad pricey for what you get. Bistro food is supposed to be simple, tasty and (again, relatively) cheap. It's what the French eat when they don't want to make a extravaganza of a meal. What you quickly realize is that you're paying a premium for the ambiance and the Old Town location, so I get that. I just wish it was a little more out of the way and a couple bucks cheaper for what you get... Comme si, comme ca: -The food: Again, think RELATIVE here. I think overall, the food is exactly what I was expecting: savory, quality bistro grub that warms the soul but doesn't have to be a show stopper. The estargot was excellent, huge snails and piping hot. I had the classic steak frites - steak was very thin, but cooked well, frites could have been a little more flavorful. My friend had the stew of the day, which was a beer and beef stew, which was very tasty. Finished with a chocolate mousse that was a nice light touch to the end of a meal. So why just so-so? Again, it was just tasty, standard bistro fare for a slightly inflated price. Overall, Bistrot Zinc certainly tickled my francophile taste buds and is a great place for a leisurely, classic French meal, but just be forewarned that you're mostly paying for the location.
(3)j b.
What a lovely place. Made me want to go to France. Crepe ratatouille awesome. Bartender Lisa awesome. Pleasant, helpful, professional, sharing. Must try the locally made liquors from Koval: rose hips, jasmine, ginger.
(5)Reed N.
You know... I see two ridiculous reviews of this place below that are negative. Complaints about kitschy decor... not true. Comments about what patrons think... like they read minds or something. Complaints about portion size... not true. Complaints about prices... not true. Complaints about vinegar, but not asking the server to fix it... not fair. Complaints about a server not taking a picture. Uh... SERVER, not photographer. They have other work to do sparky. So let me give you a REAL review. I have been to France 7 times. Yes. Seven. For a total of about 70 days. I know French food quite well. So... We were seated at a gloriously fortunate table all the way against the back wall away from the noise of the center of the place. It was a busy Saturday night. Our server was an enthusiastic gentlemen who was honestly working his ass off. He helped us narrow our choice of food down to: Burger with blue cheese and fries. The frite were brown to perfection and the burger was a lean patty cooked to medium rare state... but still warm throughout and not bloody. Just as tender and delicious as you will find. Not a huge patty, but just fine. My girl and I do not do buns, so no comment there. Cassoulet was a looser than a traditional version... a little more liquid is what I mean. Served on a plate in a large portion. Traditional servings are a bit smaller in a crock with breadcrumbs on top. The beans and sauce were slightly smoky and were excellent. The duck quarter was excellent as well. The sausage was odd, but still positive and flavorful meat. Call it uniquely spiced. The lamb... good GOD the lamb. I have eaten dozens of pounds of lamb. The lamb chunks were the absolute best lamb I have ever eaten in my 43 years... Ever. Tender. Flavorful. Just perfect. The side item was brussel sprouts with bacon and prunes. The french use prunes [pruneau] to offset earthy dishs like potatoes and, well brussel sprouts... and with with proteins like pork and chicken. The sweetness is just wonderful with these items. Anyway, the salty bacon, sweet prunes and earthy sprouts combine to create a trio of fun on your pallet. Really, for a bistro, we received more than we expected in flavor and value. This is a great little place in a great location. You could get fancier... but that does not make the food better. Food is what I am rating, and this place is 5-star.
(5)Uyen T.
My friend and I came here for brunch. We didn't have any expectation so it was such a nice surprise that everything we ordered were delicious. We had the pâté ~ mhmm one of the best pâté I've ever had.. really rich and creamy but doesn't smell like duck at all. Then we had the escargot.. turned out, all of the reviews were right. This is a must-try item when you are here.. YUMMY! Also, their mussels and onion soup are amazing too :) Would definitely come back for more!
(4)Imelda M.
Intimate, cozy & super clean. As French as one can find in Chicago. Service excellent 'specially Matt. Never had to wait for refills etc. Has an excellent menu. Portions are very good. Not over the top. The quiche tu jour & salad, excellent lunch choice. Would definitely recommend and dine here again. Price $$ for lunch $$$ for dinner. Worth a trip.
(4)Bob W.
Bistro Zinc is right next to our place and is about the only restaurant in the area serving things that require more words to describe than "edible". In fact every time I come here I am pleasantly surprised, which is a nice feeling I am probably ruining by writing this review. I haven't had anything less than good here and the starter bread and butter is excellent and this from someone normally who doesn't do the buttered carbs thing. Their mashed potatoes are easily some of the best anywhere. I can personally vouch for the tastiness of the Poulet Grand Mère, the cassoulet that is usually a special and the Vol-au-Vent (which comes with said mashed potatoes). The chicken crepe is also quite good and my wife says the ratatouille is excellent as well. Desserts are probably delicious but always so bog standard looking that we never order any. Also we are usually full with the quite large portions that actually somewhat justify the prices. Finally, I can't recall any place that serves such distinctly and authentically french bourgeoise. The uniqueness along with the quality make this the best restaurant in the area, though Tanta may usurp it.
(4)Frances H.
My husband and I went here for weekend brunch. We were lucky enough to find parking right away, which we realized on our way there may be an ordeal considering the location of the restaurant (poor planning on our part and just dumb luck). The restaurant is cute, standard french style cafe (similar to those in Paris, but way bigger and more spacious). It was a gorgeous day so we had sat by the windows which were open. Apparently this was also the couple zone as every table was occupied by a couple (except for the ladies next to us). For our meal, we had the following: French onion soup - Definitely cheesy, very sweet onion flavor. However a bit salty to my taste, and was served warm (almost room temp), as opposed to piping hot. I am a fan of piping hot soup, so was not loving this...but my husband, who prefers lukewarm food, loved it. Lamb sandwich - Simple lamb flavor, highlighted by onions and the creamy spread. Perfect for those lamb purists. I loved the waffle chips that came with the sandwich, which I devoured not very stealthily from my husband's plate. Pan-fried trout - This was perfectly cooked in butter. It even turned my husband around, who up to that point did not see trout as a viable food option. However, I thought the fish was lacking a bit of salt, which was easily remedied (as I was seasoning my eggs). The one low point of the dish were the potatoes, which I think were supposed to be roasted, but I couldn't tell as they were drowning in olive oil/butter? I love potatoes, I love butter...but even I couldn't really enjoy the soggy potatoes. Overall, superb experience in dining. The food came out extremely quickly, which was much appreciated as I was starving. Will definitely go back to check out the crepes.
(4)Keerthi A.
Went on a weekday night with a girlfriend and it was the perfect place to eat. The place was relatively quiet and we had decent attention from our waiter, he seemed a bit frazzled though. We both ordered the crepes, I got the ratatouille and my friend ordered the Chicken, which was good apparently. My ratatouille crepe was really good, well presented. The portion was quite a bit, so took some home. We had a glass of wine, and it was just the perfect neighborhood joint with a relaxed atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
(3)Blonde H.
Bistro Zinc is one of my favorite French Bistro in Chicago. On a minus temps Tuesday night, I choose this spot to take a client after attending a luxe business affair where we had Hors d'oeuvre. We decided sitting at the bar would suit our light fare requests. My business guest, ordered soup and a glass of wine. I ordered escargot with a glass of wine. The bartender was a women with a bad attitude, who gave us lip on our wine questions. When my escargot came, delicious as always I will positively add, I asked for a plate of bread, as it was not proper to be sharing my business guest bread plate. The bar tender "clicked her tongue like a hen." And got the bread, like she was doing me a favor. I practice being nice to wait staff and bartenders. Chicago neighborhoods are intimate and small. We repeat our visits here. Bistro, you lost me as a loyal patron. When we walked out the door, my client expressed her dislike of the bartender. This none the less did not pan out to be the dining experience I had planned on, and it cost me business.
(2)Kristen S.
A friend and I decided to try our Bistrot ZInc for a Sunday brunch date. Everything was exceptional. The service, food and drink! I love the decor of the place. It truly is very "french". Our server was very quick to offer suggestions of their wine list and menu. I myself chose to order off of their brunch menu and had the Brioche French Toast. Holy heavens. AMAZING. I paired that with a glass of white wine and I was in brunch heaven. My friend ordered the Truffled Egg Salad sandwich and she couldnt complain. Will defintely be returning to this establishment! Its the perfect brunch spot. They also offer valet.
(5)Irina H.
5 stars for the waiters and the owner, who care very much about whether their customers are enjoying their food or not. My mother didn't touch her soup (since she had a stroke, we can only guess at what she wants to eat), and the staff noticed and were very concerned that she get something to her liking. We greatly enjoyed the mussels appetizer, as well as our brunch menu sandwiches and crepes, and we shared an order of profiteroles for dessert. I though the restaurant had a lovely, sunny atmosphere. You do get the "Viagra Triangle" crowd around here, so it's not really my kind of scene, but would recommend it nonetheless.
(5)Kwoky L.
When I was learning French at the Alliance Francaise, we got a gift certificate of $25 for Bistrot Zinc which was why we came for dinner about a year or two ago. I got to admit, I like French food but I don't love it. I figured I should at least give it a try. Bistro food is very predictable. There's escargot, steak frites, ratatouile, poulet roti, quiche, you get the gist. It's really how well they prepared it. My trout meuniere was cooked quite well. In fact, it was my first fish a la meuniere and enjoyed it that I tried making it at home the next evening. Overall, it was a good dinner in a very French setting but nothing spectacular. The decor did remind me of Paris though. Definitely a place to check out if you're in the neighbourhood.
(3)Tenzo D.
Solid choice that never disappoints. OK, it disappoints just a little. Like someone said, they need to add duck. And some steak tartar. ohhhh and bulubaise. But seriously. Its the best french cafe we have found in the gold cost / old town area. Consistent and good waiter. Brought my French mother in law once and she was pleased. Now if they would only let dogs in......
(4)Polly S.
Decided to try Bistrot Zinc out for brunch namely because they take reservations, whereas, other brunch places do not. The french decor was nice - all reds and mustard yellow. Best seats in the house are definitely by the windows so I would suggest specifically requesting that area. Service was helpful and friendly. The brunch menu left something to be desired. A bit uninspired. Ordered a crepe with mushroom, spinach, and goat cheese. Decent, but nothing special. Boyfriend ordered nicoise salad - again, decent, but nothing special. The mimosa was refreshing and tasty but at $9, too expensive to order a second. Lesson learned? To avoid a wait, I got something decent, but nothing special here. Next time I'll be more patient - a good brunch spot is worth the wait!
(3)Ryan C.
I went with friends during Restaurant Week and opted for the prix fixe. C'est si bon! The french onion soup was delicious, although mine came with almost too much cheese. It was easy enough to avoid, though. And I'm guessing I just offended the entire state of WI. I enjoyed the grilled salmon as well, and I don't eat fish frequently. It paired well with the bottle of Sauv Blanc we ordered. The pot de creme was, in a word, amazeballs. You are a fool not to order it.
(4)Christina M.
I love their french onion soup! I can't take it!! so delicous and their Royal is my favorite burger in the gold coast!
(4)Gerardo R.
Visiting Chicago for a couple of days, went to Bistrot Zinc because of our concierge. The food was really well prepared and tasted like authentic french. The service was good. The atmosphere was more of the older crowd who demands true french cuisine and not so much a happening scene. Liked the fact that the menu features monthly chef seasonal specials. Good french wine list. Do recommend it.
(3)Dory O.
We went to Bistrot Zinc for a midday lunch. It was fantastic. We both had the french onion soup and it was cheesy and fab. I also had the chicken and mushroom crepe and it was out of this world. I will definitely go back.
(5)Mahsa T.
Nestled among the shops, restaurants, and hubbub of the State/Rush Street area is a little French oasis that will make you forget you're in the middle of Chicago. Bistro Zinc is casual, inviting, and classy. I enjoyed a very serene Saturday brunch here with my friend. It was very peaceful and quiet--just the light chatter of our neighboring tables. We had a nice table by the window and service was prompt and professional. Food was excellent. I ordered the eggs Benedict which came with poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and Hollandaise sauce on two English muffins. My only complaint is that the whites of my eggs were a little bit runny, but it was not a big deal. My friend had the spinach and mushroom omelette, which she liked. They have great coffee too. I highly recommend this laid-back, charming place for a delicious meal.
(4)Jim W.
The duck was perfectly matched with the tarragon roasted peach. What a surprise.
(5)Paddy R.
Every time I visit Chicago, I make a lunch or brunch date at Bistrot Zinc. The food is delicious, authentic and fairly priced. The atmosphere is comfortable, like a great Paris bistrot. On my most recent visit, I made a mistake and ordered the wrong salad. The owner, without me asking but overhearing my conversation with the server, promptly took the dish away and made me the salad I anticipated. The server apologized for delay in bringing the dish, even though it was my fault that a new one was being prepared. The exceptional customer service went beyond what would be expected at any restaurant. On leaving, we asked the owner about other dining spots in Chicago and she was generous with suggestions. My second trip to Bistrot Zinc was due to having one of the best burgers I had ever had, regardless of type of restaurant. Subsequent visits were due to the combination of good food, great atmosphere and attentive service. From this point on, trips to Bistrot Zinc will be due to how special the staff made me and my friends feel when having lunch there.
(5)Nick W.
Not too fancy, just right.
(4)Patrick B.
This is the best kept secret in Old Town. What a great place to have lunch or dinner. The food is excellent. The waiters are friendly and the atmosphere is wonderful. Loved it!!!
(5)Amanda C.
Went here for dinner with a group during restaurant week. French food is one of my favorite cuisines and Bistrot Zinc does not disappoint. They start you off with bread/butter and the butter is seriously SO good. The baguttes are flaky on the outside and soft on the inside. The wine list is extensive with most of the wines coming from France which is cool. I think there were only 2 American options out of 30+. For an appetizer I had the goat cheese souffle and steak frites for the entree. I also tried the salmon and for dessert we had almond cake and chocolate mousse. Everything was so delicious. One of the best things about our experience here was that even though it was crowded and restaurant week, we never felt rushed and really enjoyed our 2+ hour dinner. The atmosphere is just really relaxed. Our server was patient and attentive and I wish I could remember his name!
(5)Janet E.
Came here for a return visit and it didnt disappoint. Service was spot on. Our waiter seemed genuinely interested in serving us. It was about 2pm on a Saturday and there were about 12 other tables seated! Who eats that late? Oh wait, I do. This is one of the ONLY French restaurants that we could find that opened between 2-5pm. All other establishments were closed until dinner. Thank goodness Bistro Zinc chooses not to follow the others! We tried the potato soup, the lamb sandwich, and the poached eggs over smoked salmon. For dessert we tried the creme brulee. Everything was delicious!! The lamb was surprisingly tender and the aftertaste was almost undetectable! Yummie! Prices were reasonable here and the dining atmosphere was very nice. If french food weren't so buttery I'd be here more often!
(4)S G.
Ok. It's always hit or miss on vacation. The pressure is on to make a good choice because time is limited. The family ordered pear and goat cheese salad to share along with onion soup and a bottle of Medoc. A mystery order of escargot appeared, but we didn't mind and they were great! I had the steak frite, my daughter ordered crepe with chicken and mushroom, my husband ordered stew in puff pastry. Honestly this restaurant was more French than American. There was no pressure to vacate the place in short order. As a matter of fact we were invited to take our time between courses. The entrees were yummy. The steak was just steak but perfectly cooked. The stew in puff pastry was masterfully seasoned as was the crepe, which ended up being the hit of the night. Delicately cooked and well put together is the French way. Cafe Zinc did not disappoint. I haven't yet mentioned the service which was amazing. Friendly and accommodating with an atmosphere which allowed the family to talk to one another and relax. We ordered dessert because we didn't really want to leave when the meal was over. Warmed Almond Cake with fruit compote and espresso pot De creme. Ok we were really too full to eat it but we just couldn't help ourselves. The moral of the story is....GO TO CAFE ZINC.
(4)Melanie S.
There have been a few occasions in my life when I've cried at a restaurant's closing. (Magic Pan, Hamburger Hamlet...sigh) I used to dine quite often at the BZ on Southport but was relieved that the one on State was still open. I love French food, but not the "pinkies up" kind of French food served at places like Les Nomades and Everest. It's just not my thing, as I prefer bistro-style French cooking. Ironically, I love the mushroom risotto served at BZ. Yes, it's not a dish that you'll typically find on a menu at a French restaurant, but they do it perfectly. Other standouts are the onion soup, (which is pretty much just an excuse to eat gobs of cheese), the steak frites, the coq au vin, and be sure to finish with the crêpe au chocolat. It's a chocoholic's wet dream. I'll still mourn the loss of the BZ on Southport, but I'll gladly brave the Viagra Triangle for BZ's très délicieux nourriture!
(4)Miriam B.
I was looking forward to dining at this restaurant because I'm such a francophile. This was an overall dissapointing expieriance. I ordered the steal au poivre which I ordered medium well, It came out beyond well done and resembled shoe leather. My salad and dessert we good though. The champagne I ordered was flat though. Very nice service but if I want good French food I'll go to cite.
(2)Shin M.
I got some vegetable cous cous dish which was really good but not filling at all. The server was really nice to my friends and me up until we asked him if he could split the bill 3 ways. He got very very upset and said this was going to take a while. He came back with the bill with hand written calculations all over it and just threw it on our table. Needless to say, he did not earn the 20% we were all initially going to give him...
(3)Evan M.
Fairly average food and rude and pretentious staff. Steak frites was tough and tasteless. Place lacks any atmosphere. I would have given no stars if it was an option. Don't go unless you are 70+ years old
(1)Penni P.
I met a friend for lunch that had recently moved from San Diego to Chicago...did I happen to mention it was only 16 degrees? Now for the review. The place is very charming and the staff is super nice and VERY accommodating. We had an infant with us and they were very helpful. We had the escargot...delish, especially dipping the bread in the butter. The Caesar was very good, lots of anchovy flavor...yummmm. My friend got the onion suop...super cheesy and she loved it. We also ordered the Salmon dill crepe...if you love creme fraishe you will love this. It had a lot of Salmon and too much creme for my personal taste. I also ordered the creme brulee. One of the best ones yet. Just a little light lunch for the girls =)
(4)H W.
The laid back authentic atmosphere is great. Lisa the bartender, rocks this experience, and the waiter was superb. The food so good, and prepared perfectly. Definitely will be returning.
(5)Stothe H.
Lousy experience here. Food was good but we made the mistake of sitting at the bar and for whatever reason, the bartender - Lisa - a woman with very short brown hair, decided that she hated us but loved everyone else who we assumed must be regulars. The people sitting next to us said, "Oh Lisa is a mixologist, ask her to make you something special!", so when we asked for her suggestion on a drink using tequila and orange she said, "Ugh, I don't know, I hate tequila so I don't make those drinks". Umm, okay. The mood was chilly throughout and finally just turned cold to the point where we knew we were not welcome. It's a shame because the food was good and we all like French cuisine but no food is worth feeling like you're an unwelcome sack if merde. I actually called the restaurant because we wanted to go back and try it again this weekend so I asked if she was working - when I realized I was talking to a manager (he identified himself as a co-owner) I told him I was asking if Lisa was working because she was so rude to us and we didn't want to come back if she would be there. He said, "yes, she's working on Friday", to which I replied, "Well I guess we won't come in because she was very clear that she hated us" and he said, "OK"... Well screw you dude. I'll take my cash elsewhere! Businesses aren't run the way they used to be and a place like that shouldn't be proud of a mean bartender. Lisa, who hurt you!?!? To Maison we go!
(1)Kit A.
This was the perfect place to kick off Chicago Restaurant Week. I've never really been to a French restaurant before and I have to say I was impressed. I started off with the Twice-Baked Goat Cheese Soufflé with Sun Dried Tomato Tapenade. The souffle was delicious, but the sun dried tomato was a little too tart. I got to try the french onion soup too, but it seemed too wine-y tasting for my liking and didn't have enough onions. For the entree I was really looking forward to the grilled salmon but they were completely out. Instead I tried the Coq au Vin with Buttered Egg Noodles and fell in love! There were 2 giant chicken breasts that had been marinated in red wine over a bed of shallots, bacon and pasta. It was absolutely delicious. I let my mom try my leftovers the next day and she loved it as well. For desert I had the Chocolate Mousse. It was so overly rich I was wishing I had some milk. I recommend the Coffee Pot de Crème instead. That was way more delicious, creamy and just the right amount of sweetness. I would like to come back to this place (if I can afford it), although the menu did not seem to have a wide selection of choices. Good place for desert if nothing more!!!
(3)Helen C.
Everything about this place was beautiful. The windows open onto the street, the layout, the floor, the plate of fruit (a suggestion made by the waiter, which actually is the best thing a waiter has ever suggested, because every brunch needs fruit), the waiters themselves, and finally, the food. Brioche french toast with vanilla mascarpone hit the spot. The poached eggs were perfectly cooked, and the hollandaise was light and tasty, not the buttery mass you sometimes get. Fresh spinach, fresh smoked salmon, etc. etc. A true quality-not-quantity breakfast worth every penny (it's slightly more expensive than our original destination, the pancake house). Rubbish coffee but that's to be expected. If the dinners are as well executed as the breakfast, it's worth an evening visit. This seems to be genuine french fare cooked really well and served in an authentic bistro-y atmosphere.
(5)Aashish J.
Who can say no to fogra? This place is so goooood...quails and lentils, snails dipped in garlic/butter and fogra; yes fogra for appetizer...grilled salmon on spinach and mushroom for entree...creme brule for dessert! What else can one ask for? A little heavy on the wallet but you gotta do that once in a while :D Thumbs up: 1. Food: delicious 2. Ambiance: not too loud; good for dates or for a small group 3. Service: nice, courteous servers Thumbs down: 1. Price: $$$!
(4)Alicia Y.
I went for dinner to Bistro Zinc, which was pretty good. I wish I could give it a 3.5 star rating but its not quite a 4. Food, service and wine were all good, nothing exceptional. I enjoyed the steak frites I got - i would recommend this spot to others.
(3)Saira K.
Lovely place. I love French food, and the food here doesn't disappoint (you can't go wrong) - neither does the ambiance - and I enjoyed chatting with my super-cute server (he's really an actor working here part-time and...my friend) and looking at the artwork with him.
(4)Mark D.
I had another delectable dinner at Bistro Zinc last night. This is my favorite neighborhood restaurant because 1) it's basically outside my front door, and 2) the food is *always* delicious. Tonight my friend and I ordered the escargot BZ to start and it was excellent, as always. I ordered the Vol-au-Vent (Stew du jour in puff pastry, creème fraîche mashed potatoes) and he ordered the Steak au Poivre (Peppercorn crusted New York strip steak with crème fraîche mashed potatoes, haricots verts, cognac-cream sauce). Mine was delicious and perfect for a cold Fall evening. The pastry was light and fluffy, the mashed potatoes were creamy, and the vegetables were fresh. There was a perfect amount of really tender lamb in the stew. My friend said his steak was cooked perfectly. For dessert, my friend ordered the creme brulee which I tried and it was amazing. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (Vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce). I think I may have moaned a few times while I ate it.
(5)Timothy G.
I have been a customer of this french cafe for years, and always go 1-2 times year, and always enjoy it. The atmosphere is great, and when you need a French fix, that is authentic, this is it. Can be a tad pricey with wine, but what is not these days, the Sturgeon is very good, mussels are always a treat, and i am sucker for the crepes, streak frites and the salmon...enjoy.
(5)M R.
My favorite restaurant in the neighborhood. The coziest ambiance and great food with reasonable prices.
(5)Reb R.
Came here during restaurant week last week. Service is AMAZING! They come to your table when you need them and always helpful with questions you have about the menu. I asked them about this dish on their restaurant week menu and the waiter sold it and I bought it! Amazing dish. Food is delicious. From the french onion soup to the dessert, everything is good. And we ordered 2 bottles of Sauvignon Blanc that the waiter let our guest taste before serving. Definitely worth trying.
(3)Jennie T.
I came here today with a fellow yelper and friend for brunch. I ordered the potato leek soup (their special of the day) and half the gigot d'agneau (lamb) sandwich. The bread and butter that they served us was delicious. The butter was soft and creamy. I don't like it when the butter is hard-to-spread, so today's butter was really, really good. Loved it. I also always enjoy a freshly squeezed cup of orange juice. I always worry about ordering soup at non-Asian restaurants because I think westerners have a tendency to add milk to soups, and well I'm a bit lactose-intolerant. Our server told me that there's a little bit of cream but not much in the potato leek soup, and he was right. It was very delicious. I'm glad I ordered it as opposed to the french onion soup (my friend got that, and it looked really, really cheesy to me). I've also never had a lamb sandwich before, which is why I ordered it. And to my surprise, it was really good too. The meat was tender and juicy. I really liked the watercress that was in the sandwich too. It was a good combination of ingredients. I was pleasantly surprised. The only thing that I didn't like was the potato chips that came with my order. It tasted a little overdone -- imagine almost burnt fries... I probably ate roughly two chips and decided that I didn't want the rest. And actually, I think it turned out well that I didn't like the chips because my friend and I were both very full after we finished our meal. I definitely felt the need to walk it off a little bit afterwards.
(5)Jane Z.
The cuisine and atmosphere are authentically French, but the service was authentically Midwestern -- exceptionally hospitable and gracious! The entire staff was very accommodating, suggesting some great architectural and cultural attractions to visit. They treated the two 12 year-old boys I was taking out with courtesy and respect, which the boys were only too happy to return. From the French onion soup and the steak and frites to the salad with scallops and fennel, the food was outstanding -- and the prices were very reasonable!
(5)Art V.
Made reservation on a Friday night for 9pm. The place was slowly clearing out at about 10 most tables were empty. The weather was perfect which allowed them to open the French doors allowing a breeze and city noise into the restaurant. The bar was still full when we left about 11. There was no push to get us out at the end of our late dinner. I'll let all other reviews inform about how great the food was, frankly I could have cared less I was more interested in finding a laid back environment in which I could share a romantic evening chatting and sipping wine. This place was just what I was looking for and I'd highly recommend it if your looking for an evening like mine.
(5)Reiahnna J.
The outside of the restaurant looks so French. The window to the restaurant is open so you can get a good view of the street. Some women with French hairstyles and clothes were close to the window and made it look really French. We were seated right away. I've been to a French restaurant before (La Sardine) and this food tasted more authentic. If you like sharing, I recommend the Poulet Grand Mère. That's a half-chicken (roasted and grandmother-style), smoked bacon, mushrooms, Parisian potatoes, pearl onions and roasted garlic in a rosemary-garlic jus. Delicious and feeling. To drink, I had some blanc de blanc champagne, but after trying some of my mom's oragina, I wished I ordered that. Refreshing! I've never tried that soda before. I went into the bathroom to see if it was clean and saw that the last bathroom had a vase of flowers. So sweet! Also, are those faucets gold or bronze? I think bronze. But beware, there's a picture of nude women's backsides in the main room. A warning for squirmy Americans...unless that's what you like.
(5)John R.
Loved the food. Not cheap, but tastes great.
(4)Ali B.
Bonjour, j'adore ESCARGOT, wee! Bistro Zinc is the kind of place that you would see in a movie. There is no glitz & glam but a traditional French approach-a neighborhood restaurant people have been going for years (w/good clientele). It is warm, welcoming and always busy. We sat in the back feasting on Escargot while sipping wine. (Escargot BZ: French snails, herb garlic butter, Pernod, pesto crumbs). The Escargot was fantastic and served in very French style! I would definitely go back and see what else this restaurant has to offer. Good for a meeting, 3rd date or later and to catch up with a girlfriend.
(3)Fe T.
Checked in here the other day for lunch. I ordered what most yelpers recommended - the lamb sandwich. It's amazing. The waffle fries are tasty and the service is good too. People here are very friendly. They play great music. I will definitely come back here if I want to take a friend out for lunch. The price is reasonable. This is a must-check-out place!
(5)Lee K.
Worthy of 4 1/2 stars. This is one of the best French restaurants we've dined at. Our family of four agreed it served us the best French onion soup and mussels in light cream sauce. We really liked all of our entrees including baked fish and roast chicken. Excellent ambiance and service. I would have given it a solid 5 stars if the menu was more varied and included some creative dishes.
(4)michael b.
Great food, service, and a comfortable welcoming atmosphere, this place is a new favorite. Very reasonable and a true local gem... see you there!
(5)A H.
This place is a treat for a sunny Sunday brunch. It's so adorable inside, and I almost felt like I was in France. If only! The place is bright, and there's plenty of things to admire and notice on the walls. The food was terrific, and I highly recommend the brioche french toast with the vanilla mascarpone cream topping. Yum! I also spied some delicious looking crepes at the table next to us. I want to go back and try one of those and the Croque Monsieur. Bonus: they take reservations for brunch!
(4)R T.
Cheerful place with a casual atmosphere and the usual super tiny tables (Sometimes, I think downtown Chicago must be peopled by Lilliputians). I wasn't too happy with the faux French maitre de, with the snooty beret and matching attitude, who seated us right next to the front door on the chilliest day. I think she took the stereotype literally. The menu's not extensive, Classic fare- crepes and the like. Brunch prices were reasonable. My friend really enjoyed her lamb stew vol au vent dish. I might go back to try it.
(3)David T.
another favorite of ours ,,, so far the best weekend brunch place we have found. The eggs Benedict are a winner. Atmosphere is friendly, and in the summer , with the front windows open its a great place to eat and watch the crowd go by. We have been there for dinner twice , the first time was excellent , the second time my steak could of doubled for shoe leather. If I was the kind of guy that sends back food, i would of that time ..... but I'm not... might have just been an off night for them and the butcher ! Brunch is a home run though every time !
(4)Sierra M.
Everything pleasant.
(4)Gfiddy F.
Enjoy champagne or vino at this casual and very French bistro.
(5)johnny b.
It was fine I just wouldn't go back unless someone else was paying.
(2)shawn f.
Good food, nice atmosphere, excellent service..... nuff said
(5)Jason S.
I used to live in Chicago several years ago, and the Bistrot Zinc located on the Northside (southport) used to be a favorite of my wife and I. I was pleased to see that they still have a downtown location when I returned to Chicago for business. I'd talked two of my co-workers into coming and we all enjoyed ourselves. They each had the pan-roasted chicken breast with mustard cream and I had the hanger steak with the barley mushroom ragout.. The service was efficient and friendly. My friends who were less familiar with Bistro food were welcomed and had their questions answered. Both the apple tart and the almond-butter cake with lemon curd were excellent. All in all a fair value and good ambiance for an enjoyable evening. Good French food without having to drip with pretension.
(4)Lauren K.
I had the quiche (gruyere, bacon and leeks) with petit salad and creme brulee for dessert. Very good - a little expensive for lunch, but I guess you have to consider location.
(4)Amy B.
I truly enjoyed my Sunday brunch!! Wonderful atmosphere, efficient service and great food!! My friend and I both enjoyed our choices. The french toast brioche with vanilla mascarpone and strawberries was divine. The omelette with gruyere, mushrooms and spinach was paired perfectly with mixed greens. Yum!! The menu had many choices and I can't wait to go back and enjoy more!! Just a bit of a warning. The brunch cocktails, mimosa and bloody mary, cost just as much as the entrees. That was a bit unexpected.
(4)Joe J.
Went just this morning (re: Noon) for brunch and had the Brioche french toast with marscapone and a side of potatoes. Left full and definitely satisfied. The interior is nice as well, looking upscale but cozy at the same time. No complaints about the place. Prices were average as well.
(5)Samantha L.
I came here with friends today for a Sunday brunch. I had the Croque Monsuier, which I cannot spell. Basically, it's a sandwich with French ham and cheese. It was quite delicious, though the fries were not that good (which disappointed the potato-lover in me). The restaurant looks nice and classy, and though it's not cheap, it's not as expensive as the restaurant looks like it would maybe be.
(4)Jennifer K.
Oh, this is just a wonderful place! I've been looking for a great French stop for lunch, and this fit the bill. I had the poulet grand mere, and it was succulent. The broth was not too salty, with lightly simmered vegetables. And the chicken was moist, not dry. For dessert, I had crepe with nutella and banana - marvelous. The price came up to be $30, and I thought it was well spent. I really like the fact that the place has a very laid back vibe to it. The staff is attentive. And the music is soft, yet lively...basically, the ambience is great! I brought a book with me and read while enjoying lunch.
(4)Stryker C.
Kick ass real, actual French bistrot food. This IS the kind of thing you'd experience in france and the neighborhood bistrot. I can't say enough, anytime I make it to Chicago, I will make sure to get to this place. It ain't a snobby, high-priced bullshit place...it's real, quality french food in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere...take a step into a little window of France and try this place.
(5)Paul R.
Yum. Brioche French Toast, as well as Nutella/Banana Crepes... mimosas, coffee. What more could you want when you can no longer catch a Concorde to CDG for petit dejeuner. Charming atmosphere reminiscent of Parisian cafes. Excellent service... tres bein!
(4)Ira S.
Looks very nice, with the sexiest (in a tasteful way) painting I ever remember seeing in a restaurant. The service is elegant and swift (maybe too swift-- after all, one needs time to appreciate the painting). The food-- more Eastern European than French-- is competently cooked, but falls short of ecstatic. In short, I can't give above a 3 when I like my own cooking better.
(3)Barry P.
Great ambience, great service, great food. My favorite restaurant to have a lovely dinner with my wife. The mussels are the best in the city, IMHO.
(5)Martha Z.
I've always wondered where I could go for French onion soup on my lunch break. Thanks to my foodie co-worker, she pointed me to Bistro Zinc. This place has the perfect lunch atmosphere. Quiet and spacious. The wait staff was very hospitable. My french onion soup, amazing. I also enjoyed part of the croque monsieur. A bit on the pricey side, but perfect for the occasional lunch time treat.
(4)Brenda T.
I love this place! It is very consistant, the service is great thanks to Joey, and Dave... and the manager Michael is adorable. You can't really find anything on the menu that you won't love. If you do the bar there are great home-made waffle chips, and hard boiled eggs to snack on while Joey shakes the perfect martini.
(5)Nicholas G.
Delicious food in a classy but not pretentious atmosphere. My gf and I often come here for brunch/lunch on the weekend. I usually end up ordering a glass of champagne, french onion soup, and then a sandwich, all of which is consistently great. I also absolutely love the people watching here! You see everything, from fallen socialites (or at least that's the story the charming little old lady who sat next to me at the bar once told me), to flamingly obvious homosexual designers and the rich ladies who employ them, to the usual Gold Coast suspects walking buy the street outside. The staff is usually very friendly as well, though it can occasionally take awhile to get your food, but never obnoxiously long. If you don't have time to enjoy your meal, there is a Subway, Corner Bakery, and Chipolte near by to provide you with fast food.
(4)Brian C.
The French onion soup is outstanding, as others have already mentioned on here. Aside from that, my steak frites was pretty average. The house gamay was nothing special, either. It was a disappointing meal for what I spent, anyway. If the soup was only average, I would have dropped a star from this rating.
(3)Morris F.
Bistrot Zinc is a dependable neighborhood spot with good food, great service, and upscale prices. Our most recent weekday evening visit was typical. We shared the grilled sardine appetizer with roasted red peppers; the sardines were tastily done and the peppers (tasted store-bought) mitigated their saltiness. One of has the onion soup as a next course, and this is probably one of the best things on the menu, a slightly sweet beef broth with plenty of onion baked with a deliciously cheesy crouton on top. Yum! The other had mussels, which are cooked in a creamy, garlicy broth and wonderful to eat with Zinc's delicious bread. The steak frites were just fine, with the meat cooked exactly as ordered, tender and tasty, but at the price a little undersized. 2/3 of the plate was covered with the frites, which are quite good. The trout served on a bed of spinach was just OK, the trout was nicely cooked but it needed something - salt helped. The spinach was also cooked just right, but it gets cold before you eat it. It also needed something - a good sized wedge of lemon on the plate would help. Next time I'd go with a different dish. We enjoyed a good bottle of merlot ($39, one of the lowest-priced on the menu) with our meal and finished with coffee. The tab for two, including a generous tip for our server, came to $150. If you're looking to enjoy the ambience at a lower cost, soup and salad makes a good option, or try one of the "lighter" dishes listed on the menu. I've never experienced attitude from waitstaff when ordering a lighter meal. When busy, Bistro Zinc can be extremely noisy and at those times, it will be very conversation challenging.
(3)Brittany M.
After living in France for a bit, it's difficult to readjust to American dining. Thank god for Bistrot Zinc. The restaurant is adorable. We were able to walk in without a reservation on a Thursday night. How excited was I when I saw they had kir! There entrees are consistently good; my salmon was delicious and the escargot - pure heaven.
(4)Sophia L.
I've only been to Chicago a few times, but I always make at least a quick stop here. It's great for something light or brunch - or just as a place to take in the scene. I love bistros and bistro-fare, and Bistro Zinc is definitely a keeper!
(4)Sarah M.
Just had a lovely lunch at Bistrot Zinc. I had the 1/2 sandwich and soup - truffled egg salad and a chilled potato soup. Perfect for a warm day; filling but not heavy. My husband had the lamb sandwich, which he said was excellent. The service was attentive, and the windows that open onto State St. make it a really nice place for an early summer lunch. We will be back.
(4)John M.
3.5 stars as I've only been once for brunch, but definitely worth a visit. The past two years we've met friends for brunch on Christmas Eve, and last year we went to Le Creperie. It was quite busy when we arrived but with a reservation we were seated promptly once everyone showed up and the service was very good. We were taken care of by the bartender (which sometimes can go either way) and it was an enjoyable experience. Everyone enjoyed their food, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to try escargot (which - by the way - was very good - dip your bread in after they're gone for added flavor). Had a bottle of brut rose to top things off, overall a very pleasant and tasty experience.
(4)Terri K.
Good food-- GREAT DESSERT :) Very nice decor, pleasant staff and overall welcoming atmosphere.
(4)H K.
Dinner (Thursday night): Having been to France, I could not wait to try this restaurant. Service: Fast and friendly Menu Selection is very very small, I had no choice but to order the ham and cheese. Food: The cheese plate is very good. My ham and cheese sandwich is okay, as for the " fries" I would rather go to McDonald's. If you do go, in the winter do not seat by the window, its freezing and over crowed.
(3)Susan S.
I have been here numerous times and the service is always superb and I love the ambiance. Truly like a French Bistro, especially in the summer when the windows are open. Try to sit near them. I love escargot, although this is not my favorite on their menu as it has almost a little too much garlic in it. The crepes are excellent, the coffee divine (intelligensia) as my sister says, and if you want something light and healthy, the fruit plate is very refreshing. I just love coming here for the feel of it, as it is never a bad experience.
(4)A.S. V.
What's great about this Parisian style Bistrot is that it isn't overly fancy. It's comfortable, and not insanely expensive. Try the dessert crepes with Intelligentsia coffee.
(4)Charlie M.
The service is phenomenal. The food is very authentic and its just a fabulous place to enjoy lunch. I had the vegetable tagine and thought it was marvelous. Please note, I just moved back from Cairo and I know Middle-eastern cuisine and this was right on the money. The price was fair and it wasn't loud or too stuffy. Basically, if you're looking for a good restaurant for lunch, this is the perfect place in the area. Enjoy!
(5)Bonnie B.
The atmosphere is great and the service was good, but the food was so blah. I was really disappointed in the Salade Nicoise. My lunch companion said his sandwich was "just ok." It is too bad because it really is a cute place.
(3)Bryan C.
This place was really good! It was very casual, very comfortable. I loved the atmosphere. Perfect french bistro feel to it, very laid back. Because it was my first time here, I wanted to have a classic french meal. We started with the escargot which was just delicious! So rich and flavorful. They kept on bringing us more bread to sop up all the yummy sauce! It was great! For my entree, I ordered the steak frites. The steak could have been a bit rarer, but that's my personal taste. It wasn't overcooked at all. I had to add a lot of salt to the fries, but I'd rather do that than have them come out over seasoned. They also had a great wine menu and the server was very attentive without being obnoxious. I especially loved the atmosphere of this restaurant. It was just really "cute" I guess you could say. If you're ever in the mood for some classic french bistro food in a super comfortable atmosphere, Bistro Zinc is worth checking out.
(4)Andrew T.
I thought the food here for dinner was really good and service was almost impeccable. The fries/chips they have at the bar are quite unique. I had to take 'em to the table though, since they don't serve them at the table. I also had a coupon from the mail, so that added to the experience.
(3)Rachael W.
Let's just say I've earned enough American Advantage Dining Miles eating at Bistrot Zinc to go on a free domestic trip. And at this rate, I'll have enough miles for an international flight by summer. A culinary trip through France, perhaps? But seriously, I've never had a bad meal or experience at Bistrot Zinc. For brunch, the yogurt, fruit and granola crepe is delicious and nutritious. Their daily quiche/salad combo is superbly rich yet light, which means there's always room for dessert. The chocolate crepe with vanilla ice cream is my favorite, but the banana nutella crepe is a close runner up. The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing with a quiet energy that makes it perfect for enjoying conversation with friends or dining alone with a good book. The service is fast and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I do wish they had a wider selection of wines by the glass, but perhaps that's just because I'm there so much that I've had them all several times over. The impeccable food, service and ambiance more than make up for it and keep me coming back to Bistrot Zinc time and time again.
(5)Christine L.
I always love going to this restaurant, and have tried many French restaurants in the city. I've tried their brunch as well as dinner, and I prefer dinner as the brunch doesn't have very many choices. It's great for a date or with family. Reasonable prices, delicious food, and great specials. The service is always good and it's not usually too crowded, especially for a restaurant in the Rush/State St. area., but it's nice and cozy which I love!
(4)Jeff Y.
i'm not a huge fan of french food, but when i need my fix i usually head over to bistrot zinc. they have all the usual french fare full of cream, butter, cheeses and anything else that can clog your arteries. be sure to try the mussels if you're into that sort of thing. i would definitely recommend this place more for lunch than dinner and the big, open dining area makes it good for groups as well. personally i like this place more than bistrot margot, but both are good choices if you're craving some cuisine française.
(3)melissa h.
This place is good - I was pleasantly surprised. The staff was super friendly and attentive and the bread and butter were great. Our meals came quickly and they did not scoff that I had a take out coffee from a few moments ago. I would definitely eat there again. Later on in the afternoon they opened the windows to create a more open ambiance and thought to myself that would be a great place to people watch and have a little libation of sorts.
(5)Ronnie V.
Yum. I met some friends for lunch here a few weeks ago and really had a good time. The service was pretty good and the atmosphere was pretty much exactly what I would expect from a bistro(t) at the end of Rush. But who cares about all that? Let's discuss the important things - the food. I had a lamb sandwich and I might be able to describe it as amazing. The lamb was perfect and the whole sandwich rocked (normally I'd say I'm getting sick of aioli but it worked well here) and the sandwich came with a pile of chips that were cut in a reall odd way but passed for a side. I tried a bite of the cheeseburger (royale apparently, hello Pulp Fiction) and of the quiche. All 3 were.... awesome. The only thing I was not wowed by was the cheese and sausage appetizer and the wines were ok but fairly priced. The whole menu sounded delicious and I will most definitely go back for brunch. Overall, very well priced and delicious food.
(4)Eli R.
This was my fifth, and very likely last, visit. What's happened? The place seems to have gone downhill. A lot. First few visits were fine. The inside is quaint and the menu offered a reasonable bistro fare. Something must've gone wrong in the kitchen. Who said that salt and excessive spice are substitutes for subtle flavor? And, contrary to a common misconception, vast quantities of butter alone can't rescue a mediocre dish. Yet these are the tricks on which the chef seems to rely. How about a French Onion Soup that neither contains any onion nor is a soup? I love cheese as much as anyone, but a clay pot full of molten tasteless cheese-like substance does not make me a happy diner. And if you want to offer a tagine, please get the flavors right! Walking out after a meal, I felt an undesirable aftertaste, not to say nausea. On top of it, I was not crazy about the service, although it has been quite good in the past. The verdict - I'm done with Zinc for a while and can't recommend it to you.
(2)Ren H.
This is a great little french place in the heart of the gold coast! Its a prime location for shopping and bar hopping and their food is actually really tasty!
(4)steve h.
great french place thats not too hard on the wallet. of course had to sample their escargot (which was up to par) decided to go with their tongue which was done nicely (very 'sharp' in flavor and tender in texture). it was tour de france week when i went, so they were kind of celebrating it, but cmon..nobody really cares. i know they didn't. heh. anyways, good fare here. worth a visit or two.
(4)Kelly I.
I was really looking forward to brunch here. howeve, I found it to be extremely disappointing. I love french food. I love brunch. However the service was so poor that I will never come back. Good service can make up for bad food but bad service can really leave a bad taste in your mouth.
(2)Sohini K.
It's in my neighborhood, and so I tend to go oftener than I would otherwise, given the somewhat sparse choice of good & cheap places to eat in the Gold Coast area. The food is pretty good - the French onion soup, in particular, but it hasn't been stellar. The service has been mixed - on one occassion my friend and I received no service for at least 15 minutes after we were seated, and then it took about an hour for my food to come. It was for Sunday brunch, but the place wasn't that crowded! On another occasion we ordered the mussels, which turned out to be bad. The waiter sent for another batch and that too wasn't that much better. In the end they took it off our tab. All in all, it's a good option for the neighborhood, but not the best in the city.
(3)Michelle R.
Go for breakfast. They have THE best french toast EVER. Period.
(5)Brandon H.
I agree with what most everyone here has said. Great French food in a wonderful atmosphere that does without the stuffiness and price tag. The wine selection is sufficient but not extensive, and the deserts are some of the best I've had at a French restaurant in Chicago.
(4)rachel p.
i really liked this place. it's a cute french bistro with cheerful yellow walls, white tablecloths and a marble bar. the service was friendly and attentive. and the food--at least for brunch--was light and yummy. they bring out some fabulous crusty on the outside, chewy on the inside bread to start. we pretty much went to town on this. i had a basic breakfast--my scrambled eggs were moist--i hate when they're overcooked and dried out. the roasted potatoes were lovely, bite size with just enough crunch. and i had some of the best bacon here i've ever had. it wasn't very fatty and had a relaly yummy smokiness to it. the husband got a ham and cheese omelette with that delicious french style swiss. my mimosa was more champagne that OJ--always a plus, and the husband's bloody mary was really well prepared too. this was definitely a good find.
(4)Misi P.
Relatively unimpressed with the food. I have high standards for French, cuisine and this place just didn't cut it. The food was bland and uninspiring and their bread was tooth-splitting. Neither I or my friend enjoyed our meals here. I would like to give them 2.5 stars because their service was good, but I won't eat here again.
(2)s b.
After trying Bistro Zinc recently for the first time, I must say that it is somehow a nice, quaint restaurant, despite it's bustling location. The food was great, but more than anything, our server made the night a truly lovely experience. He was the nicest man--checking on us routinely to make sure we were "comfortable" (as he put it), without crossing that line of constant interruption/feeling like you're being rushed. I had the braised lamb, and it tasted very good. My only complaint would be that I am used to braised lamb that falls apart at the touch of a fork, whereas I actually found this lamb to be a bit tough as I tried to cut it. Since I found the piece I was given to be a bit more fatty than I'm used to, the meat's toughness made it a bit difficult to cut around the fat. However, the flavor was great. Again, our server really topped off the experience, and I would love to go back again.
(4)M. C.
This place is just so cute...like a little Parisian cafe. Plus, the food is just as great as the ambiance. So far, I've only been there for brunch, and both things that I've tried were top-notch: the Brioche French Toast and the Omelette with Spinach, Mushrooms, & Gruyere Cheese. I can't wait until I can go back for a lunch sandwich someday. I'm dying to try the Croque Monsieur.
(4)M S.
Was served food with MOLD growing on it! Both hostess and waiter immediately apologized and replaced my plate, but the manager came out to very loudly insist (for the horrified customers around me) that the mold I saw was not actually mold, but a "mousse" that brushed onto the plate. Funny that the mold I, my boyfriend, the hostess and waiter saw was fuzzy and white.... (I would recommend staying away from any "mousse" they serve here as well!) The manager insisted that I was mistaken, and made a big deal about how they would "of course" replace the dish, as if she was doing me a huge favor. Would look elsewhere if you want to enjoy a healthy, fungus-free meal.
(1)K. J.
After the nice brioche French toast I had at 312, I decided to give the French toast here a try. It was just ok. I thought that the service was not bad and someone came by to fill our water often. Not as many people here as I thought that there would be on a Sunday morning so we were seated right away. The biggest problem was that the person I was dining with ordered the brie and spinach crepe, yet ended up getting what appeared to be an omelet. After speaking to someone who had been there before, it appears that she received the wrong dish, because it certainly did not seem to be a traditional crepe (or they accidentally put way too many eggs in the crepe batter). For that maybe they should get docked a star, but mistakes happen and we didn't complain. Nice atmosphere.
(3)Takelya W.
really good food here. i enjoy the 'escargots BZ' or in other words, french snails, herb garlic, pernod
(4)Spencer S.
My wife and I were wandering around last night and made it up to the Gold Coast area looking for dinner. After passing some extremely crowded restaurants from the looks of the outdoor seating, we came across Bistrot Zinc. After looking at the menu outside, we were impressed and sat down (despite a worry of being under-dressed in T-shirts and jeans, but the hostess insisted they do take all comers). It was after 9 pm by this point (which in my wimpy opinion begins to enter the late night range) and the place was rather crowded, though the numbers definitely dwindled as our meal went on (which is to be expected). I thought the menu was rather diverse while not being overly extensive. The wine list looked rather interesting to me and though I have been almost a teetotaler lately, I couldn't resist and grabbed a glass of a Gamay Beaujolais. We started with an Octopus Salad and a French Onion soup. I thought the soup was very good with a different cheese (gruyér) and a more interesting, flavorful broth than we were accustomed to; yes, we probably order this quite frequently and usually have some rather bad ones elsewhere. I have never had an octopus salad before. It came out as a compact cylindrical hodgepodge on a bed of leaves and I enjoyed it though the roasted peppers kind of overwhelmed the whole dish. For our entrees my wife had a chicken & mushroom crepe while I had the Stew du jour (beef on this night - and I would assume on a lot of others). I have to admit that I am not overly familiar with crepes (or French cuisine in general), but I enjoyed the bite of it I had. My wife thought the quality of the chicken was not the best and while I admit it might not have been breast meat, I thought it was fine. I enjoyed my stew, but was not amazed by it. It reminded me of my mother's (which I do enjoy, but she admittedly is not a professional chef) with nice chunks of meat, carrots, and tomatoes, but not a flavor I find memorable. The pastry puff and mashed potatoes were good (especially when soaked with the "gravy"), but did not have a distinctive taste (though I guess most people would claim they should not have a distinct taste). The portions of both the stew and crepe were quite generous (at least after the appetizers) so we boxed about half of them to take home. My wife was full and I was full, but I figure being at a French restaurant we had to try a dessert. There were several interesting items on the menu, but a decision was made and I ordered the chocolate crepe. This lead to a debate between my wife and I over whether a chocolate crepe is truly French (I say it is) or some Americanized creation (as my wife says), but I will let an expert and Google tell me later (I still say it is). The crepe was served with a nice ball of vanilla ice cream on top plus smothered in a chocolate (fudge?) sauce - and let's just say none of that survived the trip home with us. Overall, we really enjoyed the place and I imagine we will find our way back there eventually - at the minimum to get some appetizers and desserts.
(4)Liz M.
I love Bistro Zinc. I've been here for Sunday brunch several times. It is especially lovely during the warmer months when the windows in the front are all open. My favorite dishes here are the spinach, mushroom and gruyere cheese omlet & the yogurt and granola crepe. Everything is delicious though, I've also tried the brioche french toast and the eggs benedict. You really cannot go wrong here.
(5)Samuel O.
Easily the best bistro I have been to in Chicago. The cassoulet is money.
(5)mary o.
had brunch here this past Sunday. The weather was nice so the front windows were wide open and there was a 4-top table right in front. The host started walking us towards the back so i requested to be seated at the front and she obliged..Why didn't she just sit us there in the first place? Anyways I had the spinach mushroom cheese omelet which was quite lovely, served with a small amount of nicely dressed greens. Had a great mimosa, and ordered a second which my waiter never brought, I don't think he heard me. Probably for the best, really didn't need it. My dining companion had the fruit/yogurt crepe that was really nice, though not your traditional french fare. I like the ambiance and setting of the place, it's a cute little neighborhood find.
(4)Michele K.
Today I planned a Mom/Daughter day and our afternoon began at Bistrot Zinc. I have nothing but great things to say about this place! My Mom had the Ham&Cheese (Croque Monsieur) I think even the outside of the bread was crisped in gruyere cheese, delish! with a hefty serving of Pomme Frites to boot! I had the 1/2 soup and sandwich, grilled cheese(Croque Fromage) and baked french onion! I wish I had left overs so I could be eatting it again fantastic!! Bleu cheese in the grilled cheese! wonderful! ALso one of the best french onion soups I have had in awhile if ever! We split the chocolate cake with carmel sauce and side of fresh whipped cream. HEAVEN wish I could bath in that whipped cream,(Gateau au Chocolat) Highly reccommend this for lunch! I hope to go back to try dinner and brunch its an adorable restaurant that made us feel welcomed and comfy and our server was a doll! My Mom & I will def be making this a regular lunch spot for future Mom/Daughter days :)
(5)P S.
It's not amazing, but the food is tasty and the atmosphere is fun.
(4)Meredith C.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc with my family for Easter brunch, which was great. It's such a charming restaurant with great french food. The crepes are wonderful. I had the fruit and granola crepe. The tomato basil soup is a must! It also opens its front windows during the summer time which makes you feel even more like you are at a bistro in Provence...and it's great for people-watching in the Gold Coast area! This is great for a charming meal on the weekend or during the week with the family or for a date.
(4)Gail T.
cute little restaurant in a nice neighborhood. wasn't impressed with the food. a good deal of my creme brulee was burned and you know what it tastes like when the top part of this desert is close to ashes. it was whatever and wasn't feeling a good vibe between the waitress and i. i don't wanna say snobby b/c its too forward but she was along this line. if you decide to go the best time is in the summer when the front of the restaurant has its windows open french provincial style. hence, get a window seat.
(3)Joe S.
Surprise, a great restaurant within the Rush Street area. Solid bistro fare, sensible prices, tasty frisee salad, good pate, charcuterie plate. Housemade waffle chips at the zinc topped bar are addictive. Nice soups. Good cassoulet, chicken grand-mere style. Nice wine list but not as extensive as you'd hope. Tasty butter, a must in a bistro. No pretension despite it's proximity to the meat markets nearby. Steak Frites very good. Above average desserts. Windows open when it's nice out.
(4)Design G.
I am going to stand tall and say that I like this place. Is it the best French place in the city? No-- but that's not why you should go. Go because the staff is great, warm welcoming and make you feel like you actually matter! True story: this was a couple years ago but my honey and I used to frequent the place all the time-- it was around the corner from where we resided and it wasn't outrageously expensive and it was good, comforting fare minus the attitude or gold-digger factor of most Viagra Triangle venues. Well, after a few months the very sweet lady who would greet us at the door came over to our table one night and handed us a gift certificate for a very kind sum. It was SO unexpected and SO sweet. We have a tendency to be very loyal but never because we ever expect anything but good service and this was just too kind. If you want to go somewhere to feel valued and have a relaxing lunch or dinner with your girlfriend or honey, look no further.
(5)Kay K.
Tried Bistrot Zinc for lunch. Although the food was high quality and unique and the prices were in the 15-25 range, I thought it was not palatable enough for me to give a 5 star. I had the chicken. Also, the service was a bit slow. It was a slow day, but it took a few extra minutes for the waiter to serve us.
(4)Jean L.
I moved to Chicago three years ago and have wanted to try this place since. I walked by it on my way to school every day and the open window/air dining was so enticing. But it seemed that every time I wanted to go, I always seemed to be rushing off to somewhere. But I finally got a chance to go! And I was excited. I walked in the door, and the host saw me and my dining partner walk in, turned around, and started fixing something on a table? ..umm... So we waited for a few seconds and he came back and sighed and said "Two?"..."yes please?" The waiter started us off with bread. And it was far from good. Just really bland, cheap bread with butter. But it was free, and who am I to complain? My dining partner ordered a chicken and mushroom crepe that was really quite good! On the other hand, i ordered a shrimp pasta of sorts that was the fishiest thing I have ever eaten. My dining partner was convinced it was just from really old shrimp that had gone bad and forbade me to eat any more. So bottom line? I'm really torn. It was just such a let down. I was expecting much more and got so much less than I expected.
(2)F D.
Just dined here tonight. Love the quaint atmosphere, if only they would play french music instead of American pop, the ambience would be complete. Although, our waiter left much to be desired in terms of service. Very slow and neglectful, and the place was only 25% occupied. Unfortunately I didn't try some of the more popular dishes - regretting that. We started with the duck pate and ratatouille. The pate was fine, ratatouille was extremely overcooked and tasted like it had been reheated a dozen times. Then I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, terrible mistake, not good at all. Taste-less boiled chicken, thrown in the oven to crisp the skin, over a bed of gravy with pearl onions, baby potatoes, and bacon. Flavors didn't mesh well at all, I ended up picking out the pieces of bacon and potatoes instead. My companion had the onion soup, very nice and flavorful. We ended with the almond butter cake and it was pretty good. A little dry, could've used a butter sauce over it, but the flavor was good. All in all, I'd go back, but definitely try other dishes.
(3)Craig R.
My wife and I have been here a number of times considering its close proximity to our old apartment. My thoughts: -Very great atmosphere, traditional French decor, quiet and classy -There's no TV at the bar so the bartender talks to you which is awesome -It's super easy to walk in any weeknight and just sit down which is great -The wait staff is really on top of it, very attentive and helpful -It is quite accessible, 22/36/Red Line all drop off right near it -The two food highlights from my side are: --The mussels are an easy 5/5 for me, ask for extra bread to dip!! --The Croque Monsiuer is a 4/5, I like the bread crispier --All other food has been tasty, these are just the most memorable I will definitely be back again in the future.
(4)Ray M.
Great French atmosphere inside. Busy and bustling staff pacing back and forth to satisfy customers needs. Elegant menu with just the correct amount of food offerings to satisfy even those that are not too familiar with French cuisine. Nice looking rustic bar area and beautify appointed art work and Parisian decor throughout the restaurant creating a very comfortable elegance. Ordered the French onion soup, mussels and quiche. Great descriptions of each item on the menu really romances your desire to try everything!
(4)Brett H.
If you like French food, this place is a must. Very elegant decor. Good wine menu. This visit we shared some Pate' and Steak Tartare, both of which were very good. For dinner, I had the Bouillabaisse, which was excellent. My wife had the Pan Seared Duck Breast which was good but a little over cooked. She ordered medium rare and it was medium to medium well. For dessert, I highly recommend the Profiterolies. The Almond butter cake with macerated berries is also very good. Great place for a quiet romantic dinner.
(4)Jessica C.
Get. The. Mussels. Everything is good here and you feel like you're in Paris. Seriously there is no wrong choice here. Allons-y!!
(5)Lauren C.
Nothing is better than a french breakfast on a Sunday morning. That's why it was so great to find one that was so outstanding during our trip to Chicago. Bistro Zinc was open, easy, and had that french casual atmosphere that makes for a perfect Sunday morning. We each had a cappuccino, which was phenomenal, and shared the eggs benedict and quiche of the day. I can honestly say, that the quiche was one of the best I have ever had. It was a goat cheese mushroom quiche, that was light, cheesy and bright all at the same time. It came with a fresh green salad, and trust me....our plate was practically licked clean. Also, our service was absolutely phenomenal! Our waiter, Chris, was really personal and gave us some city tips for the rest of our stay. He even stayed up on our water intake, which we've learned that being from AZ, is much higher than the average Chicago-an, lol. Definitely looking forward to going back for another classic french brunch next time we are in Chicago!
(5)Andrea H.
I was torn between 4 and 5, as 4.5 stars is probably a pretty accurate reflection. I just couldn't think of that wow factor to round things up. That being said, our impromptu visit to Bistrot Zinc yesterday was an overall great experience. Fiancé and I visited BZ for Saturday brunch. The restaurant is cute and the open windows were nice. Window seats definitely enhanced the overall experience. I was surprised to find how large the restaurant actually is inside, would be good for a group visit. Service was attentive and our waiter was knowledgable about the menu. We ordered one breakfast and one lunch entree, and a crepe to split, and our waiter was thoughtful enough to offer the crepe as a second 'dessert course,' something we don't get asked too often. And the best part (for me, at breakfast)--my coffee cup was always full! Finally, the food: 1/2 Croque Monsieur sandwich with French onion soup- the sandwich was decent, but sadly the least memorable item of our visit. The soup was great, definitely worth a try! Eggs Benedict with Canadian bacon- tasty, decent portion, and well-rounded flavors. Fruit & Granola Crepe- Delicious! The crepe was good size and thickness. The filling was creamy, the perfect amount of sweetness, and with a nice assortment of fruits inside. It was the perfect end to our visit!
(4)Em M.
Cute Decor. Oily Food. Service: we had a bald Italian accent waiter who was very rude (like he was too good for his job), extremely inattentive (had to ask other staff any time we needed anything), caught him in a lie, denied it, even with proof. Next time, if I go back, ask for the fat tall gay guy. He served us more than our actual waiter. What a sweet guy. I would've given this place less stars if he haddn't stepped in. Food: Good, but everything is very butter. Ask for thing to be "dry." Salmon was bland and tasted mostly like it was flash fried. Flank was delicious, but tons of oil as well. Mostly grey hairs (older people).
(3)Merlin C.
This is seriously the best french restaurant in all of chicago. We had the french onion soup, mussles, and some other thing I forgot the name of but was amazing. Especailly nice if it's a warm day and they have the windows open.
(5)Conrad S.
Expensive garbage. The wine is massively over priced and low quality. The drinks I had lacked alcohol. Every single drink I ordered was either sugar water or water. My whiskey sour came watered down with club soda in a tall glass. My sidecar came without cognac (brandy is what I think they used). My duck dish was undercooked and inadequately seasoned. Making it a boring $27 dish. The deserts were meh and not at all inspiring. Take your friends to Lou malnatis across the street. It's much better.
(1)Lesley G.
I think the reviews here are a bit critical; loved this bistro and food was great. We came for a late lunch and split the escargot, frisée salad and croque Monsieur. All were very good and our waitress knew well enough to space out the order so that my husband and I could enjoy each one. Each was perfectly cooked and came out piping hot. Wine was delicious and reasonably priced (for all the reviewers out there - a decent glass of wine will be between $8-$14 in Chicago...) Great food, great service, cute ambiance - will be back!
(5)Christine L.
So I came for dinner, semi-early on a Friday night. The place wasn't very busy, but by the time we left it was fairly packed. While their menu isn't particularly extensive they do have very good options for dinner. This is my first foray into a restaurant that primarily identifies itself as "French" and I ordered the Poulet Grand Mère, which is basically roasted chicken over a stew of bacon, mushrooms, garlic, and pearl onions. It was a little different than I had anticipated. The jus was a little sweet, but I did like how they had nice soft whole cloves of garlic in the stew (I like garlic). Overall the food was decent, some of us enjoyed our meals better than others, but at their price point I would expect everything to be delicious. It got pretty dark inside while we were there, there were a number of couples there, it is definitely more of a date night place in the evenings. I do like the decor, very French-y. Service was good, while we had one waiter there were a number of people attending to our table of 5. Since others enjoyed their food much more than I did, I would definitely come back to try something else, but I probably wouldn't get my dish again...
(3)ML ..
Service was rough, neither professional nor pleasant. My onion soup wasn't all that great. I've definitely had better. I can see why they weren't packed when all other restaurants nearby were filled to the max.
(2)Anthony S.
Great place for fun French food with a pleasant atmosphere. Arugula with dates/bacon/Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette was a light and unique appetizer. Salmon over roasted fennel with smoked tomatoes was amazing. Fennel melted in your mouth and tomatoes were sweet but smoky. Dessert was fabulous mascarpone with berries and mint tea. Felt satiated but not stuffed. $80 for two not including tip.
(5)Brittany G.
Ian was a fabulous server. The ambiance was smooth music with dim lighting. Perfect for intimate dining
(5)Robert L.
Honestly the place is awesome. My gripe is that the food is expensive, but you do not get that much of it. I guess it's a French thing, but I didn't feel I got my money's worth.
(3)Wes Cole C.
This bistro was very patient with me when I tried to perform a magic trick, yanked the table cloth, and sent all of the glassware crashing to the floor. The milk here is good. I like the French fries.
(4)Shan D.
Underrated spot for brunch. I love their mushroom and Brie crepe. The French toast is great if you want something on the sweeter side. You can also order lunch items if you're not in the breakfast mood. Sadly I haven't been here for dinner.
(4)Jasmine B.
Oh la la la - quel grand repas (per google translate, that means "what a great meal") I don't know much about french food, but I do know I was pleased with Bistrot Zinc. My only issue I had was trying to pronounce some of the choices. Our server was most gracious in explaining dishes without any judgement. He was also kind enough to split our check for us per seat; we asked up-front because apparently people in Chicago don't split checks per seat (we had issues earlier in the day). My party of four tried many different dishes, including the escargot, a first for all of us, and we were delighted for the experience and surprised by the light taste. Another first for everyone, pate - it was quite good, too. I am a super fan of French Onion soup and am always trying to find the best of the best. Bistrot's was pretty fabulous, with gruyére cheese coated in every delicious bite. I had the Croque Monsieur for my entree and was impressed with the taste of this simple grilled ham and cheese sandwich, it must be the gruyére cheese. One of my counterparts had the La Crêpe au Poulet, she was impressed at the size, expecting only a 'regular sized' crêpe, not one the size of your head. We were all so full from our dinner and lunch earlier in the day that we opted to skip desert, but I can't wait to go back to give a couple a try. We all had drinks too, but heck if I can remember what they were now. All I can say is they were good, however one was so strong it was difficult to finish. Our water glasses were always full though, so we just followed a swig of martini with some water and we made it work. I can't wait to come back and try some more french goodies.
(4)Natalie C.
Came here for my 26th birthday celebration - the restaurant was great about accommodating our larger group (no need for a food/beverage minimum, they didn't mind that some of our party was exceedingly un-punctual, allowed us to pay with multiple credit cards and cash - all while providing quick and friendly service from when we were seated to when we cheerily moved on to post dinner drinks). The food was delightful - I taste a few different appetizers, the mussels were cooked perfectly and in a delicious cream sauce (soaked up the broth with a lot of bread, yum!), the pate with little gherkins, and escargot (happy garlicky wonderfulness). I had the calf's liver - it was cooked perfectly and served over mashed potatoes and topped with fried onion rings. Definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area looking for great French food and exceptional service. Will be back!
(5)Haley S.
Excellent french bistro. Well prepared steak frites, excellent red wine. My friend and I shared the banana and nutella crepe which was mind blowingly yummy. A good spot for a nice low key dinner on a Saturday night.
(4)Danny D.
Took the gf here for her birthday. Booked it on opentable and me tioned it h there that it was her bday. Two hours before our reservation I had to push it back a couple of hours and so I called and the hostess made it happen which was great - especially since it was a Friday night. Upon arrival the host and hostess wished my gf a happy bday which was really nice and they saved a table for us in the very crowded restaurant right next to the window. Well done Zinc peeps! The Pork Milanese was amazing. The gf had the trout on spinach and she liked it as I did, but she liked my pork dish better. Chocolate cake was great and came with a birthday candle too - very classy. Great atmosphere and experience - we will be back soon.
(4)Eve Laure R.
Two nights ago, my father reserved us a table at the Bistro Zinc for yesterday night. As we came in, there was nearly no noise level and the waiters were extremely nice as they even let us switch spot due to a little inconvenience. We were really happy to find on the table real bread and real butter à volonté. As we ordered, we took a full course starting with the appetizer: my father took the Salade d'Endives which was very good. My sister took a Gratin de Pommes de terre et fenouille to die for. As for my mother and I, we shared the Moules marinières who weren't Marinières but more crème de Safran; not being disappointed though because the taste was new and as a different style. Next was the entrées. My father took a steak Frites and was mostly satisfied with the meat but the frites were extremely salted. My sister took a Croque Monsieur which totally dissatisfied her because the bread was not grilled as it needed due to it being stuffed and puffed with the Cheese or the Béchamel they put in. My mother took a Quiche du Jour which was quite nice except it was enormous- frankly I have never seeing anything like that- and the crust was overcooked. As for myself, I took the Tagine de Légumes which greatly satisfied me. The taste was smooth and well put together an the plate was not as big as my family's. The entrees being big made us a bit disappointed because it doesn't show the true French cuisine. By that time more people arrived making the noise level higher and in between supportable and headache maker. But what happened is that the waiters were overflowing with work making them have little time for each table they serve. Lastly, the desserts which were the Baies à la Mascarpone and the Gâteau au Beurre d'Amandes. We were very glad we took them and let our bellies pop out! The fruits were tasty and not atomic and full of water. The Almond butter cake was warm and the dishes were small. I was delicious. As a French person, I was quite satisfied with my food but my parents and sister weren't that happy with their experience and we were all a bit disappointed I guess. But way to go in trying!
(3)David S.
Went last Friday evening for a nice dinner with my girlfriend, we live right down the street and hadn't been there yet (even though we've lived in the area for about a year), ambiance was great, servers, bussers were great, food was ok. For the price, the Steak Frites was a total rip off I thought and I am not some rich yuppy. The steak had the consistency of hamburger meat and was really, really thin. My girlfriends meal was good however. She had a ham and cheese melt of some kind. I would return, however, not for the occasion of a nice dinner. If you want a great French dinner, try Mon Ami Gabi in Lincoln Park.
(3)Chris T.
Stopped by for brunch and left satisfied. I'm not usually a fan of french cuisine (sacre bleu!) but the food, ambience and service were all magnifique. Food: I had the Lamb Sandwich, and the meat was tender and delicious. I ended up taking out the onion from the sandwich, which made it much better in my opinion; the onion was particularly strong. The quiche of the day was also quite good. The day we were there it was bacon and leek quiche. It fills you up! One of the best parts is that when you checkin through four square you get a free cocktail! So don't forget to.
(4)Michael C.
I really enjoyed the bistrot zinc, pretty fancy looking golden interior with the service staff dressed in all white. We came in 10:30 on a Sunday morning and we happened to be the only ones in the restaurant. Pretty unexpected awesomeness since brunching in Chicago can have nightmare waits. We were seated immediately and brought our menus. The selection is nothing spectacular but had some unique things- the croque monsieur and a lamb sandwich as breakfast dishes which my girlfriend and I both shared. The croque monsieur was a fluffy french toast hamd and cheese sandwich. Very savory and the cheese used was quite sharp- tasty dish. My lamb sandwich included thinly sliced lamb piled on and had a good charred favor. It was definitely different and I appreciated the smokiness although I don't think I would ever get it again. What was disappointing was that it came with chips instead of french fries! Luckily my girlfriend was nice enough to share hers with me (they came with croque monsieur). My friends at the table got a mushroom crepe, a quiche, and french toast. All seemed very pleased with the meal. Afterwards we split a banana nutella crepe which was divine! Stuffed with bananas and oozing with chocolate, we ended breakfast on a definite high note. Overall I would recommend this place for its great service and pretty solid food!
(4)Nigel P.
My partner and I have a tradition: we come here for lunch on the last day of our annual visit to Chicago. Consequently, I have bittersweet memories of Bistrot Zinc as we always hate to leave. For our next visit I am determined to have dinner here on the day of our arrival. It only seems fitting to do that which one loves as soon as possible, and we love Bistrot Zinc. Come for the martinis (always perfect) and stay for the food (always fabulous)!
(5)Rebecca R.
I like this place but I'm not blown away either. It's a little overpriced but it's still has a nice ambiance. I went the other night with a friend and we ordered the scallops as an appetizer. The appetizer cost $13 and we got TWO scallops. So basically each scallop was $7.50. I figured we'd get more than two for that price but we didn't... I ordered the pork milanese which was very good. It came with a small tomato heirloom salad but overall it was one big piece of pounded meat. Good food, a little overpriced, romantic ambiance.
(3)lisa N.
The Denny's of French restaurants. Mild and inoffensive flavors, my anchovy salad was a sea of whitish romaine ribs with 3 small anchovies and two dead cold premade toast pieces encrusted with congealed cheese, also cold. The French woman next to is finished neither her pate or crenels brule and declined to take it home. Good for people who are afraid of non us food.
(2)Paul M.
I think this is a great French Bistro. One of the best parts about it is that it isn't too small and cramped. When discussing Frenchness, the waiter asked for our drink orders and I said what's a "French" cocktail? I had just been talking about how in High School all the videos are incessantly about ordering a Kir Royale. The waiter actually suggested a Kir Royale! Well we don't want cocktails made with champagne, we want booze. But he could provide an actual cocktail menu that had some delightful real drinks on it. All the appetizers and main dishes were excellent. And the décor -- with a lot of tile work -- feels very early 20th century Paris too.
(5)Samantha H.
I love the classic French bistro flare of this place. The atmosphere is cozy but still busy and bustling. The wine list is quite approachable as well. You have to ask for butter with the bread but the bread is yummy. Our server was Ian and he was just excellent as well. One criticism is that the menu does not say what the dishes come with. They are actually huge portions. I did not realize mine would come with a large portion of mashed potatoes as well as the main so that could be described a little better. But overall the experience was great and I'll definitely be back. We started with some venison terrine and escargot. I feel that for escargot it really matters about the texture and if you get some sea flavor from the snail as anything in a bunch of garlic and butter will be awesome. So I usually am underwhelmed. These were actually really good. Not quite Maudes, but my second favorite I've had. They had a perfect crunchy crust on the top and the snail flavor actually came through. The venison was just okay. There were very large pieces of pistachio in there that made it a bit difficult to eat. I also am a huge fan of venison and I didn't get that much true flavor. The cherry stuff they served with it was awesome though. I got the skate wing, which was prepared phenomenally. Skate is so easy to mess up and many times when you order it, it comes mushy and lacks the delicacy that makes it so succulent. This was the perfect balance of tender meat with the light, crispy skin. It came with mashed potatoes that were dynamite as well. My husband got the special stew, which was a chicken and tomato stew that he said was awesome. I was so stuffed I couldn't try it. Yet I tied the profiterole, which was very tasty, despite me not being a dessert person. So nothing was bad foodwise but some things were stand outs. I look forward to trying some other things next time and being aware of portion sizes for my next visit.
(4)Sujin Y.
Went for Valentine's day. Good thing we made reservations because it was very full. Escargot (7/10): I've had better escargot in other French restaurants. Cooked well but overloaded with garlic. Lyonnaise salad (7/10): Missing a acidic element. Need more citrus. Greens were too bitter. Puff pastry with chicken stew (9.5/10): Dish of the night! Too much puff pastry and mashed potatoes overwhelmed the stew. Almost perfect! Braised beef short ribs (6/10): Sauce was too salty and the short ribs weren't fall apart yet. Needed more cooking time. Chocolate mousse (7/10): A bit too over whipped. It affected the texture. Also the chocolate had a very bitter and sour aftertaste. Service (7/10): Our waiter was slow to come back to our table. Just an inconvenience when we wanted to order and such.
(4)Margo F.
Lovely dinner! Fab service. Poulet grand mere is worth the trip--chicken in wine sauce perfectly seasoned. Vol au vent equally flavorful. Wolf fish mmmm. Great bread--wonderful endive salad. Plain old burger excellent. Neat menu variety.
(5)Christopher S.
This was my second time at this place. I love the service and the atmosphere. The food is great and it's perfect for a special occasion. I wound recommend this place.
(5)Daniel N.
Recently some new friends of ours took us to this place. We had just changed into some scrubby clothes and were kind of afraid when they said it was a french bistro type place. Yes it was on the upscale side, white table clothes (covered in paper), servers dressed up, dark rooms, candle lit tables but they were a-ok with us in shorts (and I was in a hoodie). They still treated us with respect as if we showed up in tails and a top hat. The food was fantastic too. I had the ratatouille which was crepe style and tasted fantastic. My wife had the Croque Monsieur which was awesome (I'd hate to see the fat content on this sandwich though, with all the cheesy goodness and butter!). Our friends say they come about once every other month and they have yet to have anything bad there. Fantastic place.
(4)JM K.
Nice backcloth, friendly staff, cute name, okay food.A decent pâté is the minimum you should expect from a bistro, not a cheap liver mousse. Overall, overrated. For a way better food experience and charming Parisian brasserie feel, order a steak frites at Mon Ami Gabi. For a casual yet more inspired French bistro food, have a try at Chez Moi on Halsted.
(2)Monika S.
Service was great! Waiters were competent and were attentive to our needs and made sure that our cup are always filled. Furthermore, our meal always came out right on time. I enjoyed the company of the manager who was quite easy going and friendly. It made me feel relaxed. It is a lovely place. It is really a nice place, but I am giving it 4 stars because it falls short in the food department. I am not saying food is bad, I just don't think the flavor and taste blew me away. I think I had taste something better.
(4)Melissah L.
Pretty good! Nothing too special, but it was a relaxed place for Sunday brunch. I got a croque monsieur with fries, which was good but not great. The food on the menu is pretty simple-- so if you have a taste for the usually eggs benedict, burger, scrambled eggs etc, you will find something you like here!
(3)Haliun Z.
First of all stroller friendly if your little one is with you! My crew (6 couples) had a great brunch there. They organized everything for us. We made a reservation a week ago. Food was delicious. Everyone was happy.
(5)Mike D.
Came for lunch before heading to the airport. This was recommended by our concierge at the Peninsula. The onion soup and escargots were delicious. They were served piping hot which is a real plus for me. It seems too many restaurants are serving their food lukewarm which is real turnoff. My companion had a burger with steak frites. The burger was cooked to perfection and the frites were nice and crispy. With the onion soup I had a half a sandwich which is a special. The place would have received five stars except the bread on the Croque Monsieur was massive. It was similar to Texas Toast and was very soggy. You can find some values on the wine list if you stick to the French ones. I had the Cotes du Rhone by Guigal. Although the place reminds me of bistros in France, the servers are attentive, friendly, and helpful. I would recommend the Bistrot Zinc.
(4)David C.
This is a must for anyone visiting the Gold Coast of Chicago. The feel, look, food and wine are all French. The waiter was attentive and knowledgeable. Not hovering but always available. Portions are reasonable. Presentation is excellent. Wine list is one page and covers several regions, tastes and price ranges. An excellent Brut Rosé Cremant de Limoux by the glass. I had the duck with spaetzle and I recommend it.
(5)Teema C.
Hubby and I went here for dinner one of the nights we were in Chicago. When we got it around 5:45pm there weren't many other people, but it filled up fast and seems to be a popular place. Excellent soups - I had the french onion and hubby had the Moroccan carrot (soup of the day), both were great. We shared the Steak Au Povire which was tasty and perfectly cooked. Service was average, nothing to write home about. And ambiance was nothing special.
(4)Andy H.
We ordered the french onion soup and a croque monsier sandwich. The soup tasted like a french onion soup should which was good. The croque monsier was pretty average, not too much flavor but a little bit on the salty side. The pommes frites that came with it were good but nothing special.
(3)Matthew W.
I've been going to Bistro Zinc for lunch and dinner for years, and not once has this restaurant been anything but stellar! This is a truly charming, deeply authentic bistro that adds a touch of class to the block just north of Viagra Triangle. The crowd is local, the space incredibly well appointed (The artwork on the walls is, actually, spectacular. Keep your eyes peeled for the rather daring painting by the windows in the front!). Most importantly at Bistro Zinc, though, is the food. Classic, simple, delicious and authentic. I love dropping in for lunch for the soup/salad combo. And there's nothing like spending a warm summer evening at Bistro Zinc, with the massive front windows open, allowing you to enjoy your meal as you look out onto the street. One of the city's true treasures. Enjoy!
(5)David E.
I can't say enough about the excellent service, the atmosphere ripped straight from Paris and the marvelous food. The cocktails were quite good. I enjoyed their French onion soup, and the vol-au-vent. My date had the salmon and lentils. Both were perfect. Take the time to stop in.
(5)James F.
A great place for dinner - fine French food without being too formal. Nice wines and yummy desserts too! Since I wasn't feeling too adventurous on the day we dined here, i chose the Vol-au-vent: yelp.com/biz_photos/bist… which was filled with a great chicken stew. it was a like a french chicken pot pie - great chicken and carrots served in a flaky puff pastry over mashed potatoes. it hit the spot (though it's a lot of carbs!). then i had dessert - split a Gateau au Chocolat with the wife. yum! Good service, friendly decor, good food! I'd definitely like to come back to Bistrot Zinc next time I'm in Chicago, and in general, i'm not even a fan of French cuisine.
(5)Yvonne Y.
Quaint bistro decor, perfect for brunch with kids as they take reservations. Love the traditional small-tiled floor. We had brunch on Bastille day and they even had a woman dressed in 19th century costume serving cake! They served ham & cheese or nutella crepes for kids that my daughter claimed was better than her grandpa's! I had the spinach benedicte which I found the eggs a bit undercooked (clear, liquidy egg white). 1 of my 3 cups of coffee tasted a bit stale and not particularly hot. Friendly, non-pushy staff. Would return and try their lunch items when I'm back in the neighborhood.
(3)Yvonne B.
I am hovering between two and three stars for this review. There were some aspects of my dining experience at Bistrot Zinc that were absolutely phenomenal (our server was really top notch) and other things that we frowned at (the mussels). A lot of the evening was just okay. Duck Confit - It was a really tasty combination of duck, greens, bacon, and raisins. Potato Soup with Haricots Verts - A nice blend of potatoes with an earthy garlic flavor. Chev Salad - Hit the spot: crumbled goat cheese with pickled (?) pears. Mussels - Low quality and over cooked. Fries - I could make better at home. These were plain as plain can be. Chocolate Mousse - M didn't comment about it, didn't finish it, but chose to take most of it home to sit in the fridge untouched. Almond Cake - surprisingly well balanced. I don't usually like cake that much but thought that this one had good almond flavor, nice texture, and wasn't too sweet. With drinks, our bill came to $120. The ambiance is like other bistros: benches along the walls, mirrors, and large artwork. I'd say this is a really good spot for folks who live close by who are looking for a solid (somewhat casual) dinner OR people who happen to be in the Gold Coast and are craving French food. Personally, I wouldn't seek it out for a special occasion or anything.
(2)Steve A.
Food is very average. Steak frites is banal and chewy. Salmon crepe has 3 slivers of smoked salmon (and only $14!)--thanks so much! Everything is just very very lazy. And SORRY, no specials available for lunch! Why? Well, as the very kind bartender told me a couple of years ago, before this place became garbage, "basically just laziness." Yes, the lunch crew has all the ingredients and knowledge to prepare specials for lunch, but no you can't have any. The old bartender used to go against policy and get me specials for lunch anyway by basically telling the cooks to simply do their job, and yes, back then, the food was good. Now, it's terribly average. Moreover, it's impossible to order take out from this place! I called on Thursday, a bit after 5 pm, and I was told "We don't do takeout after 5pm." Odd, but okay. Perhaps fanciful elves wander into the kitchen just before dinner and steal all the to-go cartons. Yes, that must be it. Then I called on Sunday, at 4:38, and asked for take out. What was I told? "Sorry, we don't do take-out orders after fiv... 4:30." Ya, eff you too. Idiots. Done with this place. May your business follow where your food and staff have gone, down the toilet, forever and ever. P.S. Thanks for doing your little part in making the Gold Coast horrible.
(1)Jenny H.
First off, BZ was delightfully quaint from the bar to the vintage tiled floors. Great place to take in a leisurely weekend. The fellow seated next to us was quite dapper, taking in a cup of coffee and a newspaper. But oh my cheesy-bistro stars... What possessed me to order a french onion soup with a croque monsieur? I love me some gruyere as much as the next person, but I should've known that I was setting myself up for a crazy cheesed-out lunch endeavor. Despite this regrettable ordering mishap, the french onion surpassed any other french onions I've ever had. My lunch buddy's lamb sandwich was pretty decent, but I'm not a big fan of lamb. Yes to the french onion, but next time if I'm ordering the soup again I'll probably go for something less cheese-inspired.
(3)Katie V.
Bumping them up a star....I think they deserve it. The food is consistently good and it's a great lunch spot whether you're alone or with friends. The soup + 1/2 sandwich deal is excellent. The french onion soup is so cheesy and delicious -- for a dollar upcharge, you can get it instead of the soup du jour with the sandwich combo. Brunch is great there, too -- lots of traditional options and also some lighter fare if you're trying to not spend the rest of your day in a food coma. Lovely space, attentive service -- a definite gem in the neighborhood.
(4)Michael M.
Worst bistro in Chicago Bad service food. Attitude. And expensive for quality
(1)Sfg S.
We went on a crowded Friday night and were greeted by a cheery hostess who was able to sit us down right away. The waiter came right over with menus, took a drink order and returned in very reasonable time. Both dinners came out hot and were cooked to order. Can't wait to return to Chicago where we will put Bistrot Zinc on our must visit again.
(4)Paloma M.
Beautiful place, nicely decorated, staff was very attentive and the food was amazing! I had a goat cheese salad with nuts and an almond butter cake for dessert. Just perfect!
(4)Iris W.
I absolutely love this place! I've been here twice and have ordered the same thing both times. Lamb Sandwich. Get it. It's served with these super flavorful, grilled red onions in the sandwich and with crispy waffle chips on the side. YUM. The atmosphere is great, people there are nice, service is great and efficient. You need to go, especially if you love lamb! I went with a friend and she loved their truffle chicken salad sandwich and french onion soup. Everything seems great on the menu-- I'm going to have to try something new next time.
(5)Teresa M.
What a great find this was! Loved walking around the neighborhood in the Gold Coast area and since we were staying at the Hotel Indigo, this place was just around the corner. Our waiter was fantastic, and although he said he had only been working there 3 months, he knew his way around the menu, the wine list, etc like a pro. I had the bouillabase, which was excellent and finished with the creme brulee. Perfect! Like a little bit of Paris in Chicago.
(5)Colleen C.
I've held out on writing this review...as it made me sad to think about. Yes, sad. Why? Because when I dined here on a lovely Friday, the sun was shining, the birds were chirpin'...and it was....WARM. So, after this day all went to hell, the weather froze over...it rained for a week, it snowed. It hailed. It all went straight to shit, and I couldn't even bare to recollect the BZ experience without dropping tears into my cold coffee. Depressing! However, today...as the temps strive for...60! I am able. Spring is upon us, for good. YAY! I was invited to dine with the illustrious Dennis S for a leisurely Friday lunch...Paige W and Tara M also joined me. Having a rather mild aversion to the Viagra Triangle, this chic stop wasn't even on my radar, but now...it's my benchmark for French cuisine in Chicago, that won't drive you straight to the poorhouse. Dennis is a champion of French dining, and so I must say some of the experience is attributed to his knowledge, stories of Paris, and the like. However, the service was impeccable (thank you, Nick), and the vibe was comfort, all around. I speak only for my own dishes...as I was so enamored with them, I barely had a chance to peek at the others'. My brie and apple sandwich on brioche was absolutely drool-worthy, as was the french onion soup and hand cut chips. The pate and cheese plate to start was a decadent tease, as were the biscuits drowning happily in cheese...mmmmm, so delightful. Dessert? Why a chocolate crepe of course...do you expect anything else? Despite my best efforts to resist the wine...I could not, and managed to sip my way into a very pleasant, French-fueled buzz...making the rest of Friday afternoon very unproductive. :) For more adequate and well-put reviews, please see also: Dennis S and Tara M. They apparently pay way better attention under the influence than I do. ;)
(5)Emily B.
My advice on this one is to go full-out French. I was there for lunch and thought just a salad would do. So I got it, but then I started to marvel at all the traditional French delicacies that were coming out to other tables including the French onion soup, the quiche, the steak & frites, etc. Don't skimp on this one. Just get what you came to the "French place" for and you'll have no regrets. Plus the atmosphere is nothing short of highly adorable.
(4)Dennis S.
The perfect place for a long French lunch on a pleasant Friday afternoon. Tara M's review on 3/6/09 does a great job of describing our long Friday lunch at Bistrot Zinc. Bistrot Zinc is one of the few French bistros on the north side that stays open all afternoon, so we didn't need to worry about any "our kitchen is closing now" nonsense. We started late and stayed late. Tara didn't cover the specifics of our wines. We started with kirs - white wine (preferably a white Burgundy) and crème de cassis. Then we went through a few bottles of a nice Pouilly Fume. After coffees and dessert, we ended with Muscat Beaumes de Venise. Beaumes de Venise is a great finishing drink, an apple/honey tasting fortified wine. My main course was again their trout, which was cooked perfect and as tasty as can be. Sharing desserts made for a taste treat, although we each managed to finish our own when our plates got back to us. The afternoon was relaxing, with continual good service even though we lingered for over three hours. It was a perfect "who cares what else is happening in the world" French lunch on a warm Friday afternoon. Bistrot Zinc did a great job of providing everything we needed to make this happen.
(4)Natalie G.
Thank goodness! I have amazing friends who are hilarious and entertaining, because if my experience was based on the food itself, it was simply ok. I found this place on yelp, and should have followed Annie Y's review, because it was really very mediocre. I love brunch, but I hate brunch lines... So, when I came across this place that took reservations, this was a go for me and my gals! 10:30 am: The magical hour of Sunday brunch. Anything past that window of time, all you get is lines and crowds and lines. We got here, and it was us and the senior citizens = perfection. We were seated at a lovely table near the window, and brunch commenced. The menu was french with classic brunch dishes of eggs benedict, crepes, and run of the mill kinda stuff. The menu was not entirely expansive, but decent sandwiches and salads too. - Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict: The Eggs benedict dishes was boxed and featured, so 3 out of 4 of us ended up with the smoked salmon eggs benedict. It was good, but nothing that super impressed me. The smoked salmon was cut a little too thick so a bit on the heavy side, and we had the hollandaise on the side, and that was just a bit just unimpressive. - French Onion: My friend got this, and she is a french onion junkie. She enjoyed it, but it was not something that she was uberly impressed with - Mimosas: They were good.. but for $9 a glass, didn't encourage us to keep drinking. All in all. This spot was mediocre. It did not wow me, but it did not disgust me. I probably wouldn't come back, because there are so many other amazing places to try. But for what is it, it's simply a-ok.
(3)Adam A.
Each time we go here seems better than the last. Great food, wait staff make it feel elegant but not stuffy, perfect combination. A must!
(5)Shaun F.
Consistently great French Bistro! The food is the epitome of traditional french cooking. Try the stew du jour in a puff pastry- it changes every now and then and is always yummy! I have been coming here for a few years now and am always pleased by the food and service. The regular bar tenders are fantastic and always fun to chat with! My wife loves to order a French 75 or a French Martini- she always loves them. The menu may be small, but I can't tell you how much I prefer a small menu done well over a large menu that takes an hour to look through and can be hit-or-miss. Bistro Zinc is NOT expensive especially for the quality and location. People, everything is made in house by a chef for God's sake!
(5)L S.
Very enjoyable! Went there with sleepy ten year old after theater. We all loved it - service was good - food was good - mussels were the best I've had in Chicago. Did not get to linger or stay for dessert but will go back again to enjoy without the sleepy one!
(4)Taryn T.
I stopped here for lunch, and I would basically consider this place a pleasantly high-quality Panera or Corner Bakery. I ordered a "half and half" combo with French onion soup (highly recommend - it was delicious here) and a toasted turkey sandwich. They also served delicious, straight-out-of-the-oven warm bread with butter - a huge personal weakness. It wasn't crowded, the service was extremely friendly and attentive, and everything was very affordable considering the location - the bill was around $25 for two people. I'd definitely come back here for another lunch or to try the dinner menu.
(4)Heather D.
I used to work in this neighborhood and this place quickly became one of my favorite after work destinations. I still go there a lot and consider it one of my standbys. This is by far the best bistro I've come across in Chicago. The food is standard bistro fare that is well executed and the service is always friendly and professional. I always feel welcome here and even feel comfortable dining alone or grabbing a drink at the bar. There is a real neighborhood feel to the place and it's a great option if you want to escape all the douche bags who hang out on Division, but also don't want to go to the Viagra Triangle haunts like Gibsons, and Hugo Frogs. The menu is pretty typical of a French bistro and it's a good option for both a lunch and dinner. It seems that I always have to order the escargot. They are the best I've ever had and I could easily eat a whole serving myself. I also really enjoy their steak frites and croque monsieur as well as their selection of soups. I have never been disappointed by a meal here. I also always order dessert and that is something I rarely do at other restaurants.
(4)Art V.
Just left bistrot zinc Sitting at the nearby starbucks, thinking about 2 stars or 3 2 won out Dined alone at 8:30 Restaurant had approx 15 other guests As to the surroundings-- pleasant enough. The mosaic floor is a disaster. Totally off putting both in color and design. Looks like somebody puked up a pepperoni pizza. Service was good. No complaints. As to the food. One word comes to mind... Salt. Or, more accurately, the lack thereof. Actually, seasoning in general was lacking. A few slices of bread were delivered. Pretty uninteresting stuff. Not much flavor. Good crust, but totally forgettable. The butter was warm and thus, way too soft. I ordered the frisée lyonnaise salad. Needed lots of salt and pepper. If the salad was dressed with anything besides the poached egg sitting thereupon, I couldn't detect it. It came with many croutons despite the menu making no mention of their inclusion in the dish. The entree of trout had 1 thing going for it-- abundance. It was a huge specimen, served over sautéed spinach. The trout, like the salad needed a heavy dose of salt and pepper. Once uncovered, the spinach, too, needed help from the shakers. That which was most bizarre and actually, to a fair degree, shocking, was that the tomato vinaigrette (halved grape tomatoes in a vinaigrette)) was served atop the steaming hot trout and was in fact refrigerator cold. Were they trying to go for some temperature based juxtaposition? This was supposed to be traditional French bistrot, so I think not. The result wasn't especially pleasant. A mouthful of hot fish with very cold tomatoes wasn't what I had in mind. Dinner consisted of a glass of wine, the salad and the fish. With tax and tip the total was just about $50. As I'm in Chicago infrequently, I don't imagine revisiting this establishment.
(2)Andre W.
Pretty nice place to get a great meal! An ex-girlfriend thought it would be a great idea to check this place out. I was skeptical at first (I don't know why). I was really impressed with it. Really nice decor and great mood music! I had the duck breast and she had the grilled salmon. The duck breast was really juicy and came with rice. The wine wasn't very expensive and both dishes were great (yeah, I had to finish hers because she got too full). The girl that served us was pretty fast and was always available. I would definately recommend this place to anyone. Great for first dates and great for taking your already established significant other.
(5)Emann B.
I'd really like to understand what the heck happened here. Let me preface this review update by saying that I am an educated, cultured, and successful professional who has worked many years in the service industry while in university and grad school. So I am always a great customer, smiling and easy, and very low maintenance. I'm also a very good tipper. And before you start scoffing, let me just say that prior to cabbing it to Bistrot Zinc, my friends and I kicked off our Friday-before-Memorial Day at a River North bar that featured drink and appetizer specials. The bill came to $46 and I left a $40 tip to ensure the very attentive and friendly bartender did not lose out because of the special prices. My two friends and I arrive at Bistrot Zinc around 7ish pm and were promptly seated. Our server shows up, tall with a shaved head, and at first is friendly and engaging. I immediately say, "We would like a bottle of champagne." Translation: "We are celebrating. We are spending money. You will get a good tip." The server gives us a nice run down of their selections and offers to bring us a sample of one of them, which we find perfectly fine. So we order a bottle. A few minutes later the server shows up, opens the bottle, and pours each of us our first glass. We place an order for escargot to get started. Then.......................nothing. No follow up. No offer to make a second pour. No appetizer. We had to flag a bus boy to inquire about our escargot. The server comes over and makes some lame excuse like we were so engaged in banter about the champagne that he forgot to put the order in. He then looks like he's about to walk away and we tell him we would like to order entrees. He takes our orders and I say audibly "What's left in the bottle?" Translation: "You didn't bother to check on us, and we have emptied the bottle by pouring it ourselves, but shockers, we are still interested in ordering another one." Nothing....no acknowledgement, no follow up, the server just walks away. One of my friends is then so fed up he walks to the front and asks for the manager. The manager comes over, we voice our concerns, and then ask for another server to finish out the evening. He complied nicely and the replacement server (and his trainee) were a dream, thankfully salvaging what would have otherwise been a disappointing evening. We also had our three desserts gratis. So my question to the original server is what the heck did we do to put you off? I'd really like to know. And by the way, I'm an Asian guy with a shaved head. I was wearing a navy and white checked shirt. The friend to my right was a lovely Asian woman wearing glasses, and my other friend was seated facing her. He's Caucasian, salt and pepper hair, and glasses. I want you to know exactly who we are. And I hope to goodness that the lovely replacement server and trainee collected our tip. Because you don't serve a penny of it. I ask again, what did we do to put you off? The two stars are only because the situation was somewhat rectified with the exceptional replacement server. I have loved Bistrot Zinc for many years, but frankly Chicago has many options now, and I won't be back.
(2)Carolyn L.
I have loved Bistrot Zinc for about 4 years now, since I first discovered it with my mother back in 2006. I've spent a year in Paris so I'm pretty picky when it comes to French establishments, but this place is just so cute and authentic, I can't resist gushing over it. On Saturday, I went for a late lunch with my friend. She ordered a banana and nutella crepe which looked delicious. I wanted something more hearty so I ordered the Moroccan couscous dish and was very happy with my selection. It came out hot, with just the right portion size. There were great spices and it complemented my Cotes du Rhone wine selection nicely. I also enjoyed a glass of port for dessert. I'd definitely go back and I would encourage other people I know to go back, too!
(5)Beth G.
Great food, great atmosphere! The waiter was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable. I would have dinner here every night if I could afford it!
(5)Ingrid G.
I am in love with this place. Everything I've tried here has been a home run. The eggs benedict with smoked salmon is ORGASMIC (yep, in all caps) as is the lamb sandwich. I loved the bacon and leek quiche. Their crepes are great as well, and I'm snooty about crepes. Prices are reasonable for high-quality food. I'll be back. /Schwarzenegger
(5)V C.
People have said it before and I agree - charming. relaxing ambience. Somewhat out of place in Rush but I'm glad it's there. The service here is always top notch, the food I've had is invariably rich in taste, and I've never had to wait long even on weekends. The peppercorn steak is an old faithful and is probably the best thing I've had. The stuffed chicken that's on this month's specials is a light and flavorful dish, served in a broth that made me keep reaching for the bread to soak it all up. The hanger steak, which is a filet sliced thin, is also quite good. Despite the cozy neighborhood bistro feel, the prices are a little high (this is Rush after all). Expect to pay 50 per person for dinner.
(4)Kate S.
J'aime bien ce restaurant! I have been here a few times for brunch and love everything about it. The atmosphere, the decor, the music, the coffee, the fabulous french toast with fresh berries and cream, and stellar mimosas. I've never had to wait for a table, but the window seats are always taken... and in the summer they open up those windows which is lovely. You can't go wrong here! Everything is magnifique!
(5)Dr. J.
Our favorite french bistrot in Chicago for brunch! Lovely atmosphere, great service, marvelous food!
(5)Caroline M.
Very nice ambiance for romantic dinners and small group reunions, staff was friendly and helpful, and food tasted really good.
(4)Miss M.
I went to Bistro Zinc with my boyfriend on a Friday night. It was my first time trying French cuisine. Bistro Zinc is like a cutsie cafe and it is very laid back. Most patrons are older Gold Coast couples and groups and tourists. I think my boyfriend and I were the only people there under the ages of 45 :) but, their food was really good and I would totally go back. Their French onion soup was awesome and probably the best I ever had (REAL French onion soup, not the fake stuff!). For dinner I had a baked chicken entree with potatoes and mushrooms and it was really tasty. The dessert was the best party. It was an almond cake with fresh creme and fresh berries. It was the best dessert I had ever had. My boyfriend had the banana nutella crepe which was also heavenly. My only major complaint was that my butt hurt from the chair I was sitting in. I wish it had more padding. Otherwise the dining experience was great and the food was very tasty.
(4)Amy H.
Such a gem!! I just came back from lunch at Bistro Zinc and I can't wait to go back. The atmosphere is so nice...fancy but not stuffy or snobby. The food was amazing! I could make a meal out of the escargot. I had an amazing half sandwich with some french onion soup. Deeeeelish! The dessert menu was confusing because I didn't know what to pick. I decided on the nutella and banana crepe, which was devine. The staff was super friendly and attentive without being pushy. They really seemed to enjoy working there and serving the food. I can't wait to go back to Bistro Zinc and I plan on taking everyone that I know there.
(5)Dardo S.
Excellent foie gras... Real Onion soup
(4)Heidi H.
Once again, you have led me in the right direction when looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a great meal! My college roommate, Kelly, decided that she was going to visit me during spring break (YAY!!!!) and I needed to find the perfect place for a nice dinner before we went to the theater to see Mary Poppins. I was at a lost because I rarely eat downtown, so came to Yelp for help! Bistrot Zinc was perfect for what I wanted... beautiful ambiance, great food, and something completely different than what she could get in Bloomington, MN. We got it all here and more. I started with the best French onion soup that I have ever had in my entire life and I would go back just for that. For my entree I enjoyed a stew with puff pastry that was rich, hearty, and wonderful. Bistrot Zinc was just the right place to catch up with my girlfriend over incredible French food and a bottle of Savignon Blanc. I just hope that I can have the chance to come back again soon, especially to enjoy the windows open!
(5)Mag N.
i've only tried items off the lunch menu. what i've had i certainly enjoyed. however, the bread can be a little rough...and the time has always been off -- not very consistent, sometimes slow service, sometimes not so much.
(3)Tara M.
I have walked by Bistrot Zinc hundreds of times (and stared it straight in the face every time I walk out of Anthropogie after spending a small fortune) but didn't really know anything about it. Today I was lucky enough to have a fabulous late, long and wine-tastic Parisian-style lunch here with Dennis S., Colleen C. and Paige W. We started with a traditional charcuterie plate (delicious) and amazing goat cheese souffle with a sun-dried tomato tapenade. I am not a lover of goat cheese (unless it comes from the milk of the goats I stole from Krsna V.), but this was one of the best things I've tasted in a long time. It should be noted that the souffle is only on the dinner menu but lucky for us Dennis knew to order it. For my entree, I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, which was a leg and breast of chicken on the bone in a broth with mushrooms, potatoes, onions and tons of garlic. The bones did make it a bit difficult to eat but the chicken was well seasoned and tender and the accompanying vegetables were great! By the time dessert came around, 2 (maybe 3) bottles of wine had been consumed and we decided to pass our desserts around so that we could try them all. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (cherry & vanilla custard in a pastry with cream and caramel and dried cherries). I was also able to sample the Profiteroles (amazing), fresh berries with mascarpone (fresh and delicious) and the chocolate crepe (good but too much chocolate for this girl). BZ is a very bright and open space and the bathrooms were perhaps the cleanest public restrooms I've ever seen. Our waiter, whom I chose to call Guillaume (totally not his name--I believe it was Nicholas) made good recommendations, was properly attentive and put up with our giving him a hard time and being generally full of wine on a Friday afternoon. He also comped dessert drinks for us ladies. A wonderful experience with three great Yelpers and delicious food in a cute and bright atmosphere. I can't think of a better way to spend a warm, sunny Friday afternoon! Oh, and an honorary sixth star for the fact that I actually had two different glasses of wine in front of me at one point. I may just move to France.
(5)Chris B.
Visted this charming little restaurant today, with and old friend. She had the Eggs Benedict w/ salmon! I tried a burger w/ pomme frites. My friend thought her eggs were a little cooler than she wanted and our outstanding server, Jeff, whisked it away and returned with a new order, before we could say, "Excellent service!" The meal was delicious! The bill was generous! The decor and ambiance were appopriately Francophilic. Visit Bistrot Zinc, mon ami!
(5)Janet X.
This was a really cute restaurant. Came here with one of my friends who is leaving me to go to Paris next year, and I was very pleasantly surprised. There was none of the snobbishness of other French restaurants, the space was airy, bright and clean, with just the right touch of whimsy, and the food was delicious. I had the crepes with mushroom and chicken, which was very good, but when my friend's eggs benedict arrived I wished I got that instead!
(4)Jeff N.
We are big fans of Kiki's in River North, but found this great french bistro to offer many of the same qualities that make dining so great. Great service, very tasty food. We love the Mussels here!. And the service was outstanding. Highly recommend this State Street gem.
(4)Johnny R.
We all have three lists of restaurants in our heads.... 1) Perfect 2) I'd eat there again, but there are five other places I'd rather go 3) No good Bistrot Zinc is in the #1 category for me. We went there for Valentines, and have been there before. It was perfect. The ambience is perfect, and the food, and service... perfect. I've had the coq au vin which was very good, but have also had the specials. This past visit I had a steak special that was very good. Their sauces tend to be very well executed, and for a sauce maker like me, their food inspires rather than disappoints. It's also a classy restaurant. When I've eaten there, I've not had boorish guys talking on their phones annoying everyone by talking about some lame movie they just saw or that they sold ten cars that day. Instead you have locals and tourists, all of whom comport themselves well, and are nicely dressed. I'd like to go again and try other things on their menu when time allows. If I was going to search for a negative, and believe I have to really think about it, I'd say they play it safe with their entrees. That's really not much of a negative but that's all I can think of.
(5)Maya H.
When did the trend of casual french dining start popping up everywhere? not that I'm complaining of course. Escargot were delish and had the compulsory blend of herbs, butter and garlic coating each little body. The creatures hemselves were gigantic...do you think we started pumping farmed escargot full of growth hormones as well? At this size I woudln't doubt it. Lamb sandwich had thick slices of real lamb with a slathered aoili to die for. Nice bite and the sweet slices of toasted white bread didnt fight for attention from the lamb. Pomme frites were a nice side and completely edible.
(3)Jacqueline S.
I love any French place to be honest, because I just love the culture (art, and films) so I love to spend as many afternoons as I can dreaming of the south of France. (If you've been you will understand why!) Anyways, the food is pretty decent, it's not my favorite though. I recommend their quiche specials of the day though if you like that or the ratatouille crepes. Their desserts are really good, and the service I experienced here was (sorry!) better than what I experienced at Bistrot Margot. Although, I went here during the down time between lunch and dinner and I was pretty much the only person in the place. So, probably is a good judge of actual service that you would receive on say a Friday night. Anyways, love the music they play, and much about this place. Have not been disappointed yet.
(4)marc-paul l.
So disappointing! I've walked past this place dozens of times and it looks so charming from the outside. Last Sunday afternoon my gf and I were looking for somewhere different to eat so I suggested BZ. All I wanted was a croque monsieur sandwich, nothing fancy. My gf ordered soup and sandwich combo, lamb and onion soup. The waiter said that was an "awesome" choice. He said nothing about my CM. When it arrived I could see why. The whole thing was soggy as if left under a lid for too long. It was like holding a wet sponge. The pommes frites were equally limp. Steak'n'Shake has better fries, whoops, I mean frites. On the plus side my gf's lamb sandwich was delicious and she enjoyed it a great deal. As for the onion soup, I thought it was barely edible since it was so salty and had too strong a flavor of beef broth. I'm said to say I won't be returning. The search continues for a good French bistro.
(2)Jasper N.
Great location, great prices, and pretty good food and service. If you are looking for a casual parisian lunch or dinner, this is your spot. There is a mix of people, including Gold Coasters, shoppers, families, etc. This is definitely on my short list of places to eat when I'm in the area, and worth checking out.
(4)Ke M.
Came here for restaurant week so I feel it's hard to gauge what it would be like on a normal night. We were seated right away with our reservation and the server was attentive and made great wine recommendations. The food was flavorful and good. The portions were just right so that I felt full without over indulging or needing to box the leftovers. Not a ton of options but I think they know what they do best and stick to that. It was a bit loud but I'm sure it's because it was a Friday night during restaurant week. Worth trying out, but not my all time favorite french restaurant.
(3)Marie B.
August 19 -- I've amended my review. In July, I rated this restaurant 4 stars because the service and food were fab. Now, I'd like to give them a negative 5! Not just because the food was horrible and the service even more so, but also because from my past experience, I KNOW they can do better! We had brunch here and were sorely disappointed. The omelette was the worst I have ever seen! Dry, no fillings, tasteless. ICK! Everything was a big disappointment. Another yelp-er says people in the food and bev industry hate "brunch", obviously the staff at Bistrot Zinc fall in this category. But, you know what...if you hate brunch...don't open! Save everyone from the expensive disappointment we had today!! Two words: Tres Bon! This place is absolutely wonderful. Cozy, but not small or claustrophic, charmingly decorated and the service is the best I've had since moving to Chicago. Case in point, I made reservations for six (6) this past Friday. We arrived (30 minutes late) and our reservation had been given to someone else -- that, plus they thought we were a part of two. Thus, we had to wait a bit (no more than 15 minutes) for them to prepare a table. Not an issue in my world, but apparently it was in theirs! They provided not one, but THREE, complimentary appeitzers by way of apology!? As for the wait staff, they were friendly and attentive, but did not hover. Oh, and the food. Divine. The wine...great choices and not terribly expensive. In short. A very good restaurant.
(1)Brad B.
I dined at bistro zinc recently, in an effort to expand my universe of french food (which is already considerable). Two words: NO DUCK. What sort of french place doesn't have SOME sort of duck on the menu? Merde alors! So, I went with the old reliable. Steak frites. It was quite enjoyable. The atmosphere is cool, cozy and totally what the doctor ordered. The wine list was not daunting but offered a few interesting options including a lovely Vouvray (a bit sweet but, still good). I can't believe I didn't have the nutella bananna crepe but, I went for the chocolate cake instead and wasn't disappointed, one bit. I'm Brad B and I approve Bistro Zinc. hehehe Update: Hit Bistro Zinc for a brunch thing this past weekend and it was utterly brilliant. Strong coffee (reminded me of Paris). Omlette served with salad, as it was meant to be. Lovely.
(4)Linnea L.
We stopped in for a drink Saturday night and thought the staff was so nice we came back for brunch on Sunday. it was delicious (roasted veggie quiche especially). Good coffee, too. Staff is very friendly, place has a nice vibe. Will definitely come back.
(4)Eric M.
I really can't think of anything to knock Bistro Zinc for. For what they're aiming to be - a French bistro restaurant - they're pretty much spot on. I've been going here for about eight years now and they've be exceptionally consistent. I consider this to be one of my "comfort food" spots, where I can go when I just want good food with good service in a nice environment. It's moderately priced - you can spend a lot if you want to, but you don't have to. It's casual - some people wear suits, but I'm just as comfortable there in jeans. It's good for groups, couples or for solo dining. The steak frites are very good - the fries are perfect, the herb butter is great on the steak, which is always perfectly cooked. I also order the poulet grand mere frequently, which is awesome - crispy skinned chicken, with potatoes and pearl onions and bits of bacon. Their specials list at dinner has nice seasonal fare, too. I think that changes monthly. The wines by the glass pair well with the food - they're maybe a tad pricey, but not too bad. Finally, the desserts are great, too. I love the creme brulee "BZ" and the crepe a la banane et nutella best, but really all of their desserts are wonderful. This isn't Everest or Cite, but it doesn't aim to be. I give them five stars for hitting the center of the target they've aimed for.
(5)Lara M.
I really wanted to love this place, but my first experience there was only ok. I still really want to love this place so I'll probably try again. Was there for brunch and ordered... 1. ham and gruyere omlette - tasty but nothing special. 2. Banana and nutella crepe - seriously not sure how this could be bad. but by this point I had filled up on too much medicore omlette to really be able to enjoy. perhaps next time ill come back just for the crepe.
(3)Morgan C.
Decor: parfait. Service: fantastique. Brunch: incroyable! J'adore Bistrot Zinc!
(5)Marian T.
We had Sunday lunch here. At 11:30 it was full but not crowded. The menu was varied and everything looked yummy. The service was very good. The tables are kind of close together, but that was minor. I had the salmon quiche which was delicious, very light and fluffy. My partner had the turkey sandwich which was also very good, but with some waffle potato chips that were a little overcooked. The soup of the day was curried cauliflower. We didn't have it, but it sounded great. We are only here for three days, but will go back if we can.
(4)Noah L.
Love the decor and ambiance. So wish the food was better.
(2)Eric B.
Last Friday Kelly and I made our second trip to Bistrot Zinc, on what would seem to be an annual event. Our first experience here was the summer of 2007, and it was a delightful time, with a warm, playful decor, filling charcuterie, succulent venison medallions, and a superb gigondas from the reserve list. . . . Nostalgia, however, can be a cruel, cruel mistress. Which isn't to say the second time around was a total let down. The decor, ambience, and service remain superb. Bistrot Zinc has a classic layout, with wicker chair enveloped tables in the front, a gorgeous zinc bar in the center, and a cozy yet uncrowded back room with standard tables and banquettes, touched off with a multi-colored tiled floor, bright but not glaring yellow walls, and vintage prints, all of which take you out of the hustle and bustle of the Viagra Triangle waiting outside. We were not, however, rewarded in our food choices. The French onion soup was disappointingly bland, and the escargot did not taste fresh, at all -- it reminded me of frozen escargot I purchased at Paulina Meat Market. Dinner was similarly disappointing. I had the chicken grandmother style, while Kelly had the grilled poussin -- the baby chicken. My chicken was tough, and while the dish had a wonderful smoky flavor from the bacon, I was surprised at how brothy it was -- the dish advertised rosemary garlic jus, but I expected a better balance with the Parisian potatoes, resulting in a ragout. Instead I got a large soup. Kelly's dish was similarly disappointing, but mostly from lack of flavor. In retrospect, I'm not sure exactly why I went with chicken -- I was probably recalling fond memories of the cornish hen at Kiki's Bistro, which is tender juicy and flavorful. Next time, I will go more conventional bistro and get the lamb pork and duck cassoulet. After all, when in doubt at a French restaurant, go with game. The dinner was not a total loss however, because our dessert -- the apple tart -- was superb. Additionally, they have a fine, if albeit short, wine list with a very affordable negociant Chateauneuf du Pape. So why do I give it three stars? In large part because of my first trip, where the specials were more adventurous (i.e. venison), and because they had a few special reserve bottles, which were not that expensive as far as reserve bottles go. I hope this is a reflection of the tough market restaurants are currently going through, and that when we return for the cassoulet, we are rewarded with our persistence. Regardless, if you are in the neighborhood and want a moment of European respite, you can do much worse than stopping in for at least an apertif and appetizer at the bar.
(3)Mac P.
Two stars for this restaurant, not because it was bad ... the food was OK but quite unmemorable. That's why I am typing this review ASAP because otherwise I may forget I ever ate here. The one thing I won't forget though is the bill, not outrageous but clearly not as cheap as the food (steak au poivre = quite boring, chevre salad = just OK). If you are looking for a French restaurant in Chicago, please don't go here, plenty of other places in the same price range that have much better food.
(2)Arielle S.
First off let me say that I went here for the escargot which was totally worth it! And the atmosphere and decor was also very Parisian Bistrot/ Brasserie and the wine the waitress selected was also very good. However, I was disappointed in the Coq Au Vin I ate- I wish I sent it back. And there didn't seem to be a lot of other main dishes that I was interested in or reasonably priced for what they were. I will be back because of the location, service and escargot but I hope to find a main dish that I enjoy.
(3)Sonja S.
As good as it gets being a relative measurement - I am giving Zinc Bistrot a full 5 stars based on factors relative to the myriad of other "French Bistrot - like" restaurants that I have dined at over the last 9 months. Fathers day was particularly poignant for me , for a number of reasons that I shall not dwell upon in this review. So I wanted to honor my Pop, who is far away from here, by doing it up right with Auntie Fab - a true Francophile and a recent returnee from an extended trip to Paris. I loved the restaurant's ambiance - while others have dismissed it as "cheesy" , I have been to Paris a number of times and found the restaurant both authentic and charming. Is there anything better when one is dressed for a fancy brunch and ones hair is behaving, to be seated by an open window between two tables of handsome men? To be quickly attended to with water and menus, to be promptly given delicious coffee and cold rose wine (which we asked for errr - let me not mislead you with a false magnanimous gesture) The menu was very french and I dithered mightily before deciding on the pan fried trout with scrambled eggs and potatoes. The trout was cooked so beautifully it almost made me weep with gratitude, the eggs fluffy and golden yellow ( real eggs! REAL EGGS! That even tasted like ....EGGS) Auntie Fab had the Chicken Crepes - also delish. Never rushed we ambled through our Brunch chatting and toasted Fathers far and near, alternating between people watching and chatting - the restaurant was PACKED. yet our service remained attentive and professional. We wound up our meals with desert, I had a chocolate cake that I had to take away from myself before inhaling the plate accidentally. SO GOOD!!!! So what could have been a sad and depressing day was transformed by a charming atmosphere, professional service and a perfect brunch. If that doesn't deserve 5 stars I don't know what does.
(5)John M.
Excellent menu selections, great attentive servers. Nice dining experience, just a little too noisy.
(4)Unity O.
Just tried this place after a friend expressed a desire to try it out & have to say I am glad she did. Some friends & I decided to give this place a try for brunch on Sunday & I have to say it was great. We were seated right away, by a very friendly hostess. I was impressed with the warm atmosphere--since it was a beautiful day they had their front windows open & lots of light was streaming in. Being a brunch outing my 1st order of concern was getting COFFEE & I not disappointed--it was quite good (my only complaint is that the cups are tiny). Their menu while not huge--did have lots of variety. I ordered the chicken & mushroom crepes on the recomendation of the waitress & was pleased with the portion size and the taste/flavors. my only regret is that I had no room for dessert--sigh! One more reason to just go back though.
(4)Erica K.
I had a fantastic lunch here with my friend Laura. We went to an early movie and were starving and just dropped in at about 1 on a Sunday. Our server was attentive but not obnoxious. And I know this is going to sound funny, but this place exudes good manners. It's totally polite and charming. And the food was great. I had a cup of white bean, fennel soup with half of an apple and guyerre sandwich. The bread on the sandwich was toasted brioche and the cheese was melty and savory. The apples were green and crisp and provided perfect contrast and texture. The soup was well seasoned and subtle. I really enjoyed the whole experience and will be back again.
(4)Andrea R.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc for brunch a few months ago, and it was great. Went again this past weekend for dinner, and it was even better. Highly recommend the chicken and mushroom crepe. At $10, it's filling and full of flavor (read: lots and lots of cream). Not exactly the healthiest of fare, but for a treat, it's totally worth it.
(5)Leslie O.
Quiche was terrible. Love traditional tall Quiche and had to send this one back it was that bad. Ordered a salad instead that was decent. Offered to buy me dessert, but it was lunch and I did not except. Dissappointed:(
(2)Veliero M.
On a warm autumn Saturday afternoon we stumbled upon Bistrot Zinc with its big windows open to let the sun and warm air in. The waiter was very nice, the service fast and the food good! We had the creme brulee, not in that order, we ate it last actually. Very nice, could not stop eating it! And the specials. The quiche, the zucchini soup that was so velvety and smooth and the crepe with mushroom and a sherry sauce where you could just taste the sherry in your mouth and it was so very delicious. We will be back!
(4)Amy Z.
This place is legitimately amazing. It is not cheap--so if you care mainly about that, go elsewhere. But if you want a fantastic date or night out with close friends and don't mind paying a bit for it, you will have a great time. Their best thing here is hands down the creme brulee. I feel like I shouldn't be typing this on Yelp, because I'm always a little scared that when I go there, they will be out, but so far so good, and the pastry chef deserves credit where credit is due. The dessert portions are generous, so for all you calorie counters out there, you can share this with someone else. As for their food, I tend to like the French Onion Soup and any of their vegetarian salads. I've had the dinner crepes (galettes) here a few times and have never fallen in love, but a few of my dinner companions have enjoyed these. I recently went here with my boyfriend and his family and everybody enjoyed their meal. In short, if you like things on the lighter side then stick with the salads and save room for dessert, but if you are a heartier eater then you should feel safe choosing any of the mains.
(5)Elizabeth R.
Went here last night with my husband for NYE dinner. We had a multitude of problems and a very poor dining experience and definitely will not be going back again. First, both things I ordered they didn't have. It was a bellini for a drink, which was fine, I can understand that. But then to be out of the filet! I was upset. It was a holiday dinner and I wanted something special which for me meant a filet. The waiter could have told me that when he explicitly pointed out the special entrees and before we stared at the menu for ten minutes! Also, we had reservations and yet got seated at the worst table in the whole restaurant. We also felt so rushed it was rediculous. When we are spending that much money for drinks and dinner on a holiday I don't want to be rushed. I mean our food came out in literally three minutes. Then the waiter kept walking by eyeing our plates to see if we were done. My husband and I both got the steak frites and I had to spit so much fat from the steak in my napkin I think there was more in there than actually went in my mouth. So overall, poor food and bad service, not my idea of a great restaurant. The prices were fine and I didn't mind the decor and atmosphere.
(1)Sarah J.
After passing by decided to try it out on a whim. French onion soup was delicious. Adorable inside! I'll definitely be back.
(5)Double L.
This place is probably the only thing I miss about not living in the Gold Coast anymore. Maybe that and the smell of stale vomit on the weekends. I think of this place as a bit of an oasis in the Gold Coast/Viagra Triangle area. The atmosphere is really nice and their attempt to transport you to a nice little bistro in Paris is fairly effective. The staff for the most part is friendly and accommodating. The crowd is always a nice mix and the place never seemed to try to be more then it is. I'm sure it is possible to pay quite a bit more at another venue and receive the same quality service and food but that is your choice. We have tried several different things on the menu but always fall back to the Peppercorn Steak. Onion Soup is pretty tasty and they seem to have some great dessert specials on a regular basis. Probably worth checking out for an after dinner drink and dessert if you are dining some place else in the area and are looking for a change of scenery. Zinc, That's what I think. RrL
(4)Julia R.
Their crème brulée is fantastic. It's my favorite thing on the menu. I've had several of the soups and vegetarians options and they were all quite good. Never waited very long to get a table and the servers are very pleasant and helpful.
(4)Matt L.
I guess it's about time that I review Bistro Zinc. I've been there a number of times now with my parents, who like the place enough to keep going back. First off: the service is excellent. Even though it's not a comparatively expensive restaurant (entrees range from $16-30), they make you feel like you're at a real first class establishment. Secondly: I don't think I'm cut out for French food. Escargot I can do, but the salmon and other cooked fishies, uh uh. So I'm usually forced into red meat or the other white meat. Or French onion soup. (If I had a better sense of humor, I'd probably write "LOL" instead of this sentence and move on.) Third: The steak frites here is teh sucks. Seriously, that piece of meat is so flat and sad. Even the big pat of herbed butter doesn't help him out. And his fried friends that live on the plate next to him, they're sad too. Fourth: Croque Monsieur is good, but not that good. He needs better cheese!!! Fifth: French onion soup is very good. Sixth: Dessert is good. Seventh: They make a great martini and a bloody brilliant bloody mary. I'm no wine some lee a (or whatever term they use when someone makes a profession of telling people how to get drunk), but their selection seems quite nice. They have a Jeroboam of Veuve on the wall to prove it. Eighth: Brunch here is the shiznitobamsnipsnapsnap. Seriously, banana nutella crepes all the time.
(4)Craig C.
I have two comments: 1. Best Mussels in the city. 2. Best Crepes in the city. 'nuff said.
(5)matt b.
I guess I don't know why anyone would go here on purpose, but if they did, they probably wouldn't hate it? It's middle of the road on most counts. The prices were reasonable, service was fine (borderline slow), menu was pretty typical for brunch/lunch, and food was fine. I had the Oeufs au Saumon Fum, hollandaise was fine, salmon was better than average, and a bloody mary that was actually superb. For a fallback, if you are local, it's a go.
(3)Lisa S.
Excellent food, service, and ambiance on a recent weeknight. The mussels (appetizer) are superb. The roasted chicken was perfectly tender and so flavorful...loved the mushroom, bacon, pearl onion combo. Also tried the steak frites (delicious as well). Great place for date night!
(4)Katie C.
You brought me Champagne when I got a new job. You brought me chocolate when cried into my wine glass about my ex. Remember that day it was like 20 below?....You...yes you....gave me the come hither stare to relax and get toasty with you. Some times you get really busy and I feel like I wither away into the crowd. Other times just a few other people are there with you and me. I love you Bistro Zinc. I honestly love you. ps- J'adore votre potage franais d'oignon
(5)Dustin B.
Great place for a romantic dinner. Prices were quite reasonable. We were seated immediately at about 8:15 on a Sunday evening (about 45 minutes before closing time). Even this close to closing time, we received very good service. I had the carmelized onion tart for an app: oh so rich (almost too heavy). It was very good. My wife had the onion soup (as usual). It was not quite up to our standards. The cheese, crouton, and onions were very good, and the stock had a nice flavor to it but needed more body. Possible they were using a dark chicken stock instead of a beef or veal stock. I had the foie de veau (I love organ meat). Ordered medium rare. The insides were good, but the outside was a little too seared (to the point of being charred). Pommes puree were good. My wife had a chicken and mushroom crepe. Had a little too much chicken, and perhaps not quite enough mushrooms, but good other than that. Dessert was poached pears with mascarpone. My wife liked the pears, I liked the mascarpone. That works pretty well, I'd say. Brownie points for carrying Duvel. I order one whenever I can. Can't buy that one in Iowa. It was even served in a Duvel glass.
(4)Mike G.
Found bug in $11.50 glass of wine. I'm sorry, but first impressions go a long ways. Find a cleaner establishment. (they did replace the glass of wine)
(1)Neline S.
I am a BIG fan of French food and I took my friend to Bistrot Zinc to satisfy our fix. I ordered the Vol au Vent en Croute and it was excellent. I think I enjoyed the pastry more than the stew itself but what totally blew me away was their mousse au chocolat. The mousse was light and airy and the chocolate shavings were bittersweet. I couldn't believe how amazing this dessert was that I have no desire to try any dessert on their menu because I love this so much.
(5)Stef B.
You can't go wrong grabbing lunch here! I've tried it all, soup & sandwich, quiche, French Onion soup... its all delicious! I've only been here for lunch, and they're never really busy so it's a nice calm, relaxing place to go. The interior is great, it really does feel like you stepped right out of Chicago and into France. I am a supporter!
(4)Annie S.
I don't understand why people think this place is so great for brunch (no offense to fellow reviewers) but my friends and I thought it was pretty mediocre. We ordered eggs benedict, omelet w/salad and the basic breakfast w/ eggs, toast, ham and potatoes. The portions were pretty small (which makes sense since we are in a french restaurant) but the dishes were pretty bland. What I liked the most was the potatoes. We also had mimosas, which I thought was pricey at $9/glass. However, the service was great and the staff are really nice. The decor is pleasant and it was fun to people watch as well. It was a really diverse group of eaters, which is always nice to see. I don't think I will ever go back for the brunch but I might try it for dinner sometime. The location is great and it would be fun to go back in the summertime.
(2)Abby S.
It wasn't that the food wasn't wonderful, but good food is nothing in comparison to great service. I am aged 21 and an undergraduate at Columbia College Chicago where I study fiction writing. I am meek in stature, only coming up to 5'1". Why am I saying this here? It is because I was looked down the long, aquiline nose of both host and server upon entering the restaurant. My attire? More than appropriate. My autonomy? On or above par. My company? Educated and observant of nice restaurant doctrine. Nevertheless, we were discriminated against. Maybe because we were young, maybe because we were women, it is unknown why. I had gone there twice previously in the afternoon during last year, however, the third time did not serve me well at all. For this, my vote for Bistrot Zinc went down considerably. I am by no means the final say, and I hope those who go there whom are in the same position as me have finer service than I did; I am just saying I would be wary to travel there again.
(2)Joshua M.
First off I'm a bit biased. I think French stuff is overrated. I know I know, they are so romantic. But you know there is a reason they are attacked first in every world war. Despite this I was a good sport and tried Bistrot Zinc. And you know what, I had a great banana and nutella crepe, with a side of extra crispy bacon. It was kinda pricey for what it was, but definitely good. The service however was just weird, and that was where BZ lost some stars with me.
(3)Karen W.
Mmmmmmm... Delicious! Had pork cheeks tonight, usually have trout, always have mussels or escargot as an appetizer. My husband loves the chicken crepe, the salmon, and calves liver. Atmosphere is outstanding! Music is superb. Great place for a comfortable, delectable meal. Oh wait -- the bread!!!! Go try it
(5)Nicole L.
I love this spot for a morning brunch in a quaint French setting. I recently had dinner here for the first time and was very pleased with the experience. The ladies at the table next to us were drinking kir royales so I of course had to order one as well...loved it. As an appetizer we tried the mussels, which were extremely flavorful and were deemed the best mussels ever by my dining companion. Additionally, the service was fantastic and very willing to answer any questions about the menu. I highly recommend Bistrot Zinc for anyone in the mood for good food in a sophisticated atmosphere!
(5)Patrick P.
Despairing that Brasserie JO closed since my last Chicago visit, I tried Bistrot Zinc. Didn't take long to feel at home, with the casual French decor and a great meal at the (real zinc) bar. Bartender Lisa is the consummate host with the perfect mix of attentiveness, conversation and reserve. Her seasonal herb-infused cocktail list is creative, informed and not to be missed.
(5)Klaas V.
Excellent, their steak was fantastic and very reasonable at 29 dollars. Nice ambiance, good service. Really enjoyed it, thanks.
(5)D S.
Very disappointing experience. It looked so promising when we were given a table by the window early on a Saturday night. We ordered a bottle of wine and the snail appetizer was pretty good. Next, my friend ordered the sea bass entree and I ordered the salad frisse with a chicken crepe. The waiter asked if I wanted the salad and "small plate" appetizer crepe together and I said yes. Ten minute later he came over and said the kitchen would not serve both together because "there wasn't enough real estate on the table". Well, it was a Saturday night and I didn't feel like fighting so I let the salad, poached egg and all, sit ther until my crepe came out so I could enjoy a conversation with my friend and we could eat together. And, sure enough, both my salad and "small plate" appetizer fit just fine on the table. Of course, it would have fit a little better if the large salad wasn't so unballanced with way too much lettuce to go with the other ingredients. I wouldn't have even noticed or wrote this negative review if the ktchen hadn't forced me to notice. The waiter was pretty nice otherwise, the egg was perfectly poached but the crepe was kind of dougy. I can't imagine I'll be dying to go back any time soon.
(2)Isa B.
The ambiance is great, the wine was delicious, the service is very nice, but the food wasn't WOW. Very decent though but nothing to die for. My mom, who is French, had a Steak au Poivre that was ok, same thing with my husband. I had a Vegetable sandwich that was ok, but the salad didn't have much flavor. Other than that, we might go back again just to test our luck.
(3)Gracie K.
This place is solid. Every time I go, I enjoy my meal and my service. The food is tasty and (I think) reasonably priced. The waiters are always very attentive and friendly, and the restaurant pulls off a sort of neighborhood feel. I would recommend their soups (butternut squash in particular) and (bien sur) the croque monsieur. Intense, but delicious. The steak frites is also reliable (the frites are quite good!) and the desserts are not to be missed. I always leave this place happy, full, and not too poor.
(5)Clark K.
Went there recently and had onion soup and sandwich, food was good, but the staff looked miserable, not one smile in the place, come on, lighten up a little, at least fake it
(2)Sally B.
A civilized gem in the middle of madness on State Street. I couldn't believe how delicious and original the Trio Salad was - orange watermelon? You've got to be kidding me! It was delicious. So was the Escargot. The Walleye was tasteless and seemed to be breaded, which I didn't like. But the environment is comfortable, and yes Parisian.
(4)Alex A.
2.5 stars. I went there for a Sunday brunch because of a tropical rain outside. It looked nice. However I was overall quite disappointed by the food and the service. We ordered: - Brioche French Toast, with Vanilla mascarpone & fresh berries. The mascarpone was super thick and the berries average. - Granola, Fruit & Yogurt -- I asked for the Granola, Fruit & Yogurt Crêpe without the crepe in order to have granola, and they said sure, no problem, and just brought me the filling, with almost no granola. I guess I got what I asked for, but still.. And the fruit was mainly a banana The place was not authentic. No French server at all. We found old lettuce on our bench, and the coffee was average. I would not go back except to take cover from another tropical rain
(2)Cristal P.
I went here with a girlfriend 2 nights ago after some shopping nearby, and we really enjoyed ourselves. We split a bottle of the Vouvray demi-sec, which was excellent. Their wine list is (predictably) mostly French, which I appreciate. It's also not so big as to be overwhelming, but still has a good selection. After going back and forth between the Lyonnaise salad and the cream of parsnip soup, we both opted for the soup. It was okay, a little too sweet and rich for me to finish more than half of my bowl. I ordered the grilled salmon for my main plate, and it was SO GOOD. Perfectly cooked and flavorful, it literally fell apart from the smallest pressure of my fork. My companion ordered the trout, which she said was good. For dessert, we split the almond butter cake. I'm a huge fan of Mastro's butter cake, but this one was a pretty damn close second. I will definitely be returning for the atmosphere and food.
(4)Bonnie L.
We've been here a couple of times and were disappointed both times. 1. Service was noticeably slow. Not sure why when we were there past the lunch rush both times. 2. Food has been inconsistent and underwhelming. - French onion soup was super salty the first time. Second time there was no salt so it actually tasted sweet, probably because of the onions. - Crepes were decent but not impressive - Salad chevre was good the first time, inedible the second. Waaaay too much vinegar that it was inedible. Today I asked our waitress to take a picture of me and my mom since we were there to celebrate my birthday. While mom went to the restroom, the waitress took care of other customers and said she'd be back. Mom came back but the waitress never did. But she did pretend not to notice us when we left.
(2)Simon L.
We went to Bistro Zinc only once, but that was our last time. Pluses: - Great location in the Gold Coast area. During nice days they leave the windows wide open, creating a very pleasant environment. Minuses: - Food is just average. - The service was terrible. When the waiter poured water into my wife's glass, he did it from the other side of the table. Condensate was dripping from the jug to my wife's knife. My wife asked for another knife. When the waiter went to the back, we saw him complaining to another waiter. Also, when we were done, it took a while before we get any attention. Conclusion: We won't go back again.
(2)Randall O.
We went here for lunch. The place is very nice. Sat by the window. Service was good and friendly. We both had soup, I had cauliflower and my wife had onion. I highly recommend the onion. I had chicken and mushroom crepes. Very filling and good flavor. My wife had the tuna and loved it. Done to her liking. I would come here again.
(5)Taffi S.
While walking through Viagra Triangle, we have always commented on wanting to try Bistrot Zinc...last night was our first shot. While our visit wasn't terrible, it certainly wasn't memorable, so a return isn't on our horizon. We were promptly seated by the window, given bread, water, and menus. Started off on the right foot...however...it then took 20 minutes or so for our waitress to come and take our drink orders. Before she trotted off, we quickly suggested we should order. During this entire process, she was curt and acted as if we were an imposition on her evening. So we waited...and waited...and waited, and then 15 minutes later we finally got our drinks. Our food arrived... We had the French onion soup...lukewarm, flavor was OK (go to Bistrot Margot for better)...mussels, flavor was OK - they tasted like they were steamed and then thrown in a sauce at the last minute, (go to HB, not French, but fantastic for more flavor)...and lastly, the croque monsieur, which wasn't the melt in your mouth decadent sandwich we were hoping for. The ham tasted like it came directly from Oscar Meyer and the cheese and bread were one big greasy mess. On the plus side...the pomme frites were wonderful! hand cut fries that were perfectly seasoned and crisp. I definitely understand that some nights the food, staff, or the atmosphere may be off. It just so happened that two out of the three were off at the same time for us. With so many other spectacular culinary choices in the city, we will just have to pass.
(2)Jane L.
Went in last minute last night and sat at the bar. Ordered martinis, pâté and Le Royal and all were excellent. We do love blue cheese so the burger was perfect! Fries were a little room temperature but I am not a big fry eater anyway, so forgiven. Great spot to people watch too.
(5)Jeremy O.
A nice little French bistro in the Gold Coast. Overall, I enjoyed it, even if I felt it was average. The wait staff are somewhat aloof and unattentive for my taste, but certainly not bad by any means. Because of BZ's location, there are a lot of older people dining there. Again not a bad thing, just different. The food is good, filling, and on par with typical Bistro fare pricewise, if a bit "uninspired". I really enjoyed the Tarte L'Oginon for an appetizer and the Poulet Roti (not called Roti here though, even if that's what it is) was cooked perfectly. The wine list is ok - if I were more of a wine snob, I might have been very upset with that fact that they list a 2004 Guigal but brought to our table a 2005. **UPDATE**: I've returned to BZ several times since writing this review and can say that's it's become my "regular" bistro. I believe I just had a bad waiter (haven't seen that one since) and have had a great time in all but that one occasion.
(4)Amy S.
We had a great experience at Bistrot Zinc. The waiter was very attentive and all of the food was wonderful. The special stew of the day was a pork and apple flavored with lavender. Very good. Definitely a good value.
(4)Car M.
Lunch was good - I got the quiche of the day. If I'm in the neighborhood, I'll stop in, but probably wouldn't go out of my way to eat there.
(3)Irene K.
That was french food likes,we do not expect authentic,but at least get it to test similar,service was weary good
(2)Jessica M.
I had a long lunch with a girlfriend at Bistrot Zinc today. All in all it was a great experience. The ambience of the place is adorable -- tile floor, classic bar, potted palms -- very "cute corner bistro." And the food was also quite good, though not the best French cuisine I've had in Chicago (that would be Bistro Campagne or Marche). But definitely still four-star worthy. The service left a little bit to be desired -- our waiter just seemed a bit checked out, but no major gaffes or anything. All in all a very pleasant place for a long lunch with a girlfriend.
(4)Jenna D.
There was one day when I......er...I mean a "friend" of mine may have accidentally eaten two brunches in one day. But, it wasn't my fault...they have banana nutella crepes! I mean it wasn't HER fault....my friend that is.
(5)Fred S.
This was one of the most disappointing dining experiences we have had during the eight months we have been back in Chicago. We had really been looking forward to going to B. Zinc, for the reviews on Yelp are really strong and the atmosphere (from looking in the front window) appeared to be incredible. Well, the atmosphere is amazing. The food - well, the night we went it really wasn't very good. The mediocre food combined with our expectations meant that we left disappointed. We started with a drink at the bar, and they had a nice selection of French wines by the glass. That being said, you are much better off ordering a bottle of wine. Their wine glasses are small. So, while the prices on their "by the glass" selections seem reasonable, they aren't all that reasonable when you consider the glass size. The bar has a great feel to it though, and they place what appear to be homemade potato crisps on the bar for you to have as a snack. When we were seated we ordered a salad and an appetizer to share. Given the cost of the salad ($9), we figured that it would be enough for us to share. Wrong. The $9 goat cheese salad is definitely a one person appetizer size salad. It was our fault for not asking if it was a large or small salad, but $9 for an appetizer salad (given the price of the entrees) is really steep. The salad was good, but not great. I definitely would not order it again. We also ordered the escargot. The escargot are great; the bread that they serve with your meal is not. The poor quality of the bread (for me) makes eating escargot much less of a treat. I wouldn't order them again simply because the bread on the table is so bad. (Of the "bistros" we have been to - Kiki's, Mon Ami Gabi, Brasserie Jo - Bistro Zinc's bread is by far the worst.) Our entrees were good, not great. I had the lamb shoulder. It was tasty, but very, very fatty. The price was reasonable given the size of the dish ($19). I want to go back to Bistro Zinc, for I have to believe that they had an off night. I rarely find that so many people on Yelp will rave about a restaurant when it is as average as this place was on our first visit. Nonetheless, based on our one visit I couldn't recommend Bistro Zinc - I would tell you to go to Kiki's Bistro or Mon Ami Gabi instead.
(2)Scott A.
Hard not to have a good time when you're out with a great group of friends which is exactly what I was doing this afternoon when I visited Bistrot Zinc. A quaint little French spot tucked in Chicago's Gold Coast that refreshingly has it own personality and is perfect for an afternoon get-together with friends or family. This is not to say they don't serve dinner which they do; actually they have breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. I know they serve breakfast throughout the day but I'm not sure about dinner. I should have asked since now looking at the evening menu it looks wonderful and I would have loved to have tried a few of the dinner items. In any event, its simple bistro atmosphere which is inviting and nice to me has the feeling of being a brunch or afternoon place to hang out rather than your evening main event. That said if you're just looking for a nice causal place to get together with people you know, this might be a good choice any time depending on your mood. Food-wise, I loved the diverse menu and the items I tried were definitely above average but not absolutely amazingly so though the sliced leg of lamb sandwich was pretty darn close. Other items I tried were the Croque Monsieur, Eggs Benedict, and Mussels. I only sampled the Mussels so hard to say how wonderful this dish really was but the one mussel I did have was excellent. The Croque Monsieur was also very good though I found myself thinking this one could have been better and the Eggs Benedict despite how the staff raved wasn't any better than what I'm accustomed to which is not a bad thing just that it didn't blow my mind. Not all was bon however, the pomme frites tasted just a touch burnt and I found the staff to be a bit in-personal and mechanical. That said, it either wasn't that bad or just having a good relaxing time overshadowed these issues so it didn't detract much from the overall experience. Next time you're in the mood to just casually hang out with friends and get some good food, give Bistrot Zinc a try! Bon Appétit !
(4)Amy J.
I'm giving this a 4.5 rating, maybe 5. Probably helps that we live a stones throw from the place and consider it an easy go to. Bistrot Zinc feels like a little slice of Europe with the tiled floors and big zinc bar (with the best home made potato chips ever). It's a little pricey for your average week night out, but it's just one of those places that you feel great eating in and the crowd is MUCH better than it's neighboring choices- Carmines, Gibsons, Tavern- yuck. Wine is good, food is standard french fare, always good (not reinventing the wheel but always good), delicious dessert and even better cappuccinos.
(5)Callan C.
Great spot, stopped by for lunch randomly and it was delicious. A little pricey, but good atmosphere.
(4)Christine C.
Scallops were great!!! Roast chicken not the best. We went for brunch and it was wonderful. The French toast was delicious. Cozy atmosphere!
(5)Anonymous P.
Having lived in Chicago, I've never been a fan of the restaurants around Rush Street, but I was in the area and dropped into Bistrot Zinc for brunch. Very nice and open layout, stylish but not stuffy. The staff was great and the meal was excellent starting with the coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice to the crepe with the side of bacon. It's never a wrong time to eat bacon. Makes me miss living in Chicago, but then I realize it's 10 degrees outside and I realize why I don't live here anymore.
(4)Kirstie M.
Oh, how I miss Bistrot Zinc! My husband and I spent a year living in Chicago, just a short walk down State Street from this cozy little Gold Coast gem, so named because of their handcrafted zinc bar. OK, I must confess, we went in the first time after getting one of their coupons in the mail. The place looked so charming, and it was just too good of a deal to pass up! But we fell in love with it on the first visit and kept going back. Anniversaries, birthdays, date nights, Thursday afternoons...we were always finding reasons to go to Bistrot Zinc. We brunched, we lunched, we dined, we drank and we always felt like we were in our own little secret spot. Never touristy, Bistrot Zinc feels like a tucked-away neighborhood spot in an area that's overrun with trendy bars and expense-check restaurants. My menu faves included: the Brioche French Toast (with vanilla marscapone and fresh berries...yum!), Le Royale (a fantastic burger, which, while it's only on the lunch menu, you can get at dinner if you ask), the Tarts au Saumon Fume appetizer, the Vol au Vent stew (which changes daily), the Steak Frites, the Steak au Poivre and the Nutella crepes (hold the banana, please). Adding to the charm of Bistrot Zinc is an authentic French bistrot vibe and a great staff, including Wes, the day manager, a total sweetheart of a guy. The next time we can make it back to Chicago, Bistrot Zinc will definitely be one of the first stops on our list. But for now, tell Wes we said hello.
(5)Caroline T.
It is sort of exactly what I expected. Seemingly amazing from the outside- but just A-ok food--- for a fine food price--- which is how all of the restaurants on the Gold Coast/ Rush strip seem to be. My spinach goat salad was fine- it was just that. The Salmon I was disappointed with--- way too much orange sauce of some sort-salmon was overcooked- and not enough quiona (sp). BUT the chocolate mouse was divine- not much you can do to mess that up! I did also enjoy the escargots and the ambiance- which were both straight out of Paris. So do I recommend this place? Not really- maybe lunch is better? Its just too typical here.
(3)Erika G.
I love going here for weekend breakfast/brunch. Eeeet eees so French! If I lived closer, I'd be hangin' out at the bar a LOT more. Fun place, unpretentious and lots of character.
(4)Hurricane H.
Being an out-of-towner, we were just looking for a good place to eat lunch. Bistrot Zinc was a beautiful Parisian respite from the gritty streets of Chicago. An oasis of French neighborhood bistro fare amongst the requisite Rush Street pizza or burger places. I had the Croque Monsieur with an appetizer of Fois Gras. My tablemate ordered the onion soup and the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb sandwich, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli). We shared. It was a great lunch. When we left, I felt like I'd had a vacation from my vacation. Ahhhhhhh. (But BEWARE, finding a parking spot in this neighborhood is next to impossible!)
(5)Sarah M.
I love Bistrot Zinc. My husband and I eat here a lot and it's also a great place to bring the kids in the early evening--wonderful children's menu and very friendly staff. It's also great for lunch--solid lunch menu and really reasonable prices. Great escargot and a wonderful blue cheese burger. Some dishes miss the mark but over all, a great neighborhood bistro for a casual lunch or dinner.
(4)Natasha M.
The most horrible food in Chicago out of the 90 restaurants we have tried. So almost every Friday night, my boyfriend and I would go find a new restaurant to dine in. It was a lively Friday night and we walked around Loop and Gold Coast, starting Hubbard st all the way up to Goethe St up north, walking in blocks to find a new restaurant we haven't tried. We walked for 2.5 hours. We walked around Rush St. It was about 9pm and most restaurants were full besides Bistro Zinc. We decided not to try it, but after walking for another 30 min, we came back since there is no waiting line. The atmosphere was above average, but the food as absolutely horrible that I can't give it more than a 1 star. I ordered Liver Pate (around $19) and my boyfriend ordered a quite expensive steak ($25), and it turned out that they looked like the same and tasted like the same. The steak was even smaller than my Pate. I am a Liver person, but this is not right. As I was about to finish my tiny Live Pate dish, I GAGGED because It was so gross and salty and full of a smelly taste and blood dripping out. I could not finish the dish and my poor boyfriend finished it for me since his steak was tinier. The waiter told me the Cyder drink I order was $3.25 and it turned out to be a small bottle and it was $4.50. We walked away, spending $30/pp, feeling that we just wasted so much money and time. I have been to France several times, and this place basically destroyed my impression of French food. 0 Star if I there is a choice.
(1)Brenna M.
I second, and third and fourth a lot of the reviews about this place. It is classy without being snobby, and the food is good, although I woldn't say outstanding...maybe that's because I thought there was too much cheese on my french onion soup. However, my friend got mad and boldly stated "There is no such thing as too much cheese". So there you have it. Also gets an extra star because it's the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with the people next to you and make new friends!!
(4)Corinne M.
My favorite restaurant in Chicago. This may be because I love all things French, especially the food. Bistrot Zinc is a wonderful place for brunch as it's casual, classy and unpretentious at the same time. The prices are really reasonable and they have the best Eggs Benedict in the city (a light lemony Hollandaise). The decor is charming and the French music they play is light and pleasant. The sandwiches here are really tasty and the crepes are yummy as well. The coffee and tea here are delicious and the Creme Brulee is pretty great too. It's never too crowded for weekend brunch and if your lucky you can get a seat in the window and watch some of the Gold Coast's characters as you eat a delicious and reasonably priced meal.
(5)Jean C.
A few years ago I had brunch here. I had a chicken and mushroom crepe. I didn't like it... it was bland and salty. The brunch may be better now, but this was my experience.
(2)David W.
We just found this place while walking Rush Street on an oddly busy Wednesday night and were happy with the food. If they had not put us near the kitchen, the rating would have been higher. We enjoyed the mussels (what a cream sauce!), grandmother's chicken, and pork cheeks. Like most French-dolts, the only pressure is being able to order the food that I'm just not sure how to pronounce and a few I wondered what they even were... Over all, good food....
(3)Cole D.
I've been here a couple of times for brunch/lunch. Good, consistent, typical French bistro fare. Nothing like a croque monsieur and a plate of pommes frites after a night of overindulgence. I can also vouch for the onion soup, which is almost a necessity on a frigid Chicago day.
(3)Rob S.
When I long for France, I go to Bistro Zinc. It feels like I'm in Paris here, and tastes like it, too. I always order pastisse or Pernod. Great service, great drinks, and super desserts...j'suis pret!
(3)J S.
I've gone 3 times- twice for dinner and once for brunch- and had mixed experiences in terms of food quality and service. While I don't recommend it without caveats, I think it's a place that prepares a few menu items exceptionally well while offering an intimate French setting. The key is identifying the items that are exceptional while avoiding the disappointing ones. Of course, I can only speak of my experience... The good: the lamb sandwich and bouillabaisse. Both are excellent and merit a trip to the restaurant. The bad: french onion soup (far too sweet) and croque madame (bechamel sauce, please?). Hope this helps anyone considering dining here.
(3)Lindsee R.
My first time here, I loved! it. I had the spinach omlette and my friend and I shared the profiterole and apple tart desserts. The second time however, I also had the omlette, but ham this time and it was perfectly delicious, but the apple tart had changed into some sort of reheated frozen concoction with jar sauce. I don't know what was going on that day or if they've just traded in their old recipe, but it kind of made me not want to go back. If I want frozen, reheated desserts I'll go to Bennegin's.
(3)Jessica Y.
Here for brunch again! Delicious french toast and great coffee. Attentive waiter and we made it before the crowd when we arrived at 11 on a Sunday. They didn't rush us out while we nursed our coffee and chatted. A+
(4)Alice H.
This is my version of comfort food. If I've had a long day... maybe I missed lunch, maybe I'm exhausted at the end of the week, I crave Bistro Zinc. Specifically, I crave their fries. To me, they have the perfect fries. Thin, salty, crispy. Perfect ratio of potato to skin. I love them! In addition to my ginormous plate of fries, I will usually also enjoy the rainbow trout with spinach and cherry tomatoes or the poulet grand-mere. Those two are my favorite. Both are wonderful dishes. I am a creature of habit so I tend to always get one of those two dishes. I rarely deviate, and when I do, I tend to regret doing so. The service is always wonderful. The staff is incredibly attentive, not pushy. The atmosphere of the restaurant is charming and sweet (very much in line with being a french bistro), but it is also very comfortable and relaxing. I never feel rushed, and that's important. The last thing I want when I've had a stressful week at work is to feel like I'm being rushed at dinner on a Friday night. On top of that, I've rarely ever had to wait for a table. There's usually always a small table or seat at the bar to munch at. For someone who rarely has the foresight to make a reservation, I know I can walk in here on a Friday or Saturday night, and not have a problem. Bistro Zinc = comfort, easy, tasty.
(4)Margreth C.
I've been wanting to try this place since I moved to the Gold Coast in the summer. Decided to try it for restaurant week and glad that I did! I got the scallop/salmon appetizer, which was good. I prefer hot foods but it was still good. For my main entree, I got the steak and fries (my favorite)! It was a pretty big portion, which I was surprised. I had the steak medium well, and it was just right! For dessert, I had the coffee one and that just ended it with a bang! Overall, I was satisfied with the restaurant as a whole. The service was great! Anytime I had my water half empty, they would make their rounds, which I never had to ask for a refill! The server was very attentive and always made sure we were okay. I would definitely come back again!
(4)Peter W.
We had a friend coming in from New York and decided to go for Sunday Brunch. A friend of mine recommended Bistrot Zinc and when I looked up the location, I was really thrown off. It is right next to the Viagra Triangle and we're not a fan of the scene around there. But the other reviews were good and the photos looked great, so we decided why not try it out. I'm so glad we went there. The staff was extremely friendly, the decor was actually little more like a Brasserie (a little more ornate) than a Bistro, the scene was not full of Trixies, and the food was delicious! I happy to know that I found a place in that area that I actually feel comfortable bringing out-of-towners to. We'll be back!
(5)Rits M.
Very authentic looking Bistrot. Came here for date night and it works rather well. There isn't too much space but I was expecting that. They had put up hooks for coats which was smart. Looks warm and cosy thanks to the red walls. I had the escargots, the salade chèvre, the Mediterranean crepe and the creme brûlée. The escargots were delicious and I would definitely order them again. I was a little surprised by the portions, they were large for French food. The brûlée was outstanding, if I had to nit pick, I would say that the top was too thick but the texture of the cream and the taste was perfect. I would give the crepe a miss, while it was well prepared and tasted good, it wasnt something I would remember. Also, this place has half bottles of wine, perfect if you are not in the mood to get completely soused.
(4)Jennifer H.
I loved this place. The owner came over and explained the menu and specials to us. I started with a glass of sparkling rose and had a delicious poached chicken salad for lunch (La Salade Hachée) at a window seat. I got the almond cake with fresh cream and berries to top off a perfect lunch. Divine.
(5)Aidan M.
Where to start...One: The steak frites is amazing, I ate it in like a minute and a half. Two: I'm ashamed to say I ate two meals. One being the steak frites and the other being banana and Nutella crepes. (It was easter and I mean why not) Three: The staff was really friendly... actually it was probably because I like doubled the waiter's tip with all my food. Four: They ask if you would like dessert...at ten am...ok... Five: The food comes pretty quick and its clearly not prepackaged crud from like a multibillion dollar food company. Six: I'm going back, definitely
(5)Charles S.
Had a first date here, and everything was fantastic. We tried escargot, had a great bottle of red wine, and our entrees were great. I would recommend this place to anyone. Watch out though - it gets pretty packed so make a reservation.
(5)N Q.
Actually they deserve 3 1/2 stars, but Yelp doesn't do half stars. I am making it 3 then, rather than rounding up to 4, since the service was painfully slow. The food was decent. I had the duck, which was a special, and asked for it medium rare. It came out too rare, almost rubbery, but they fixed it when I asked, which was good. I also had the beet salad which was alright, not bad but nothing to write home mom about. Service knocks off a 1/2 star, since it was so slow, although my server was perfectly friendly and polite, there were whole stretches of time I was essentially ignored. It's just good to check up on someone occasionally, you know? Also, I wouldn't normally mind paying these prices for better food (the duck was about $25), but unfortunately the food quality and taste doesn't quite match the price tag. I may come again, however, as the atmosphere was quiet yet comfortable, pretty decent, conversation-friendly noise level, and I like that. Perhaps my experience will be better next time. By the way, I also ordered this chocolate mousse dessert which was nice. Not spectacular, but it hit the spot! They gave me raspberries with it too, upon request. Chocolate and raspberries = A nice way to end the meal :)
(3)Larry S.
Third visit and my opinion has not changed. This place is the real deal. Had superb French Onion Soup and a perfectly prepared soft shelled crab over a corn and pepper salsa. Cant go wrong!
(5)Nelson M.
Restaurant Review French Bistro in the Gold Coast! I came here for my three year wedding anniversary for lunch with my wife and son. I was not disappointed. You would think having a 8 month old with you would be a problem in a french bistro, but no. The staff was super friendly and placed us at a table where we could easily fit the stroller. The menu prices for this area were quite good. We started off with the house pate, a bit gamey for my taste but ample portions for the price you pay. I wish they would give you more bread with the pate. I ended up with a lighter meal by selecting the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli) As other's commented the onion was way too much and had to be removed from the sandwich, but otw the lamb was cooked well and the seasoning went well with the protein. I can't say it was the best sandwich I ever had, but I will be back to try the other french bistro items. 4 stars as being a promising restaurant that I will have to come back and try more items. Pro- friendly service, good price, great ambiance Con- more bread with the pate please! Hidden deal- None
(4)Joe S.
Overall, I'd probably say 2.5 stars. Our server was a bit in your face. Pointed at the specials, grunted..he was inattentive at best, forgot wine order, kinda aloof. The food was average. The highlight was probably the french onion soup. I had the chicken with fingerling potatoes and my wife had the parmesan pepper crusted steak. Both were mediocre. I noticed someone else mentioned the wine..I have no issue paying $12-$16 for a glass of wine provided its quality. The french pinot noir was decent enough, but the rest was average.
(2)Ruma T.
Just went there last night with friends for the first time and it was good. I think its more like a 3.5 and I wish the star system had 10 stars instead of 5 because that would make it much easier to rate. Anyway, besides the point. We had wine..of course. They had a variety of wines by the glass and we tried quite a few and they were delicious. We got the arugula salad and it was alright. The entrees that impressed were the salmon and skate. I'd definitely recommend it and I'm not even typically a fan of salmon. The caramelized oniony topping on it was perfect although I wish it was warm instead of cold. Worth a visit. Good atmosphere, great for a date, and not too crowded or difficult to park.
(3)Paola C.
Seriously loved this spot. The service was absolutely A+, food was delicious - I had a crêpe au poulet which comes with mushrooms and the fallen-from-heaven crème brûlée, must try! - and the atmosphere is so Parisienne! Perfect. Wanna go back for sure.
(5)Stephan K.
Very good food. Clean, crisp, and tasty. Ambiance is more traditional. Try the French soup and walleye. Service is top notch.
(5)Bri A.
Chez Moi is my favorite French restaurant in the city, but this is now my second! I came here for brunch with my family and everyone, even my 4 year old niece, loved their food. The menu has standard, simple French fare, but it's GOOD. I'm not a big onion fan so I didn't try the French onion soup, but everyone raved about it. Escargot was buttery, garlicy and delicious. I had a sandwich with turkey, fig jam, brie and watercress which was tasty, but I regret not getting a crepe! The truffle egg salad is so good, too. I loved the ambiance and our waiter was so nice! He made sure to bring my niece's sandwich ASAP when she proclaimed, "I'm STARVING!" lol. Brunch was great and I'd like to come back for dinner.
(5)Charlie B.
I don't give out 5 stars lightly; this place deserves them. We (just) had brunch/lunch, ~2PM Saturday. My husband had the best french toast of his life (this is saying something). Practically a souffle it was so light and custardy. I had the onion soup and the tuna salad, both terrific. The soup: I never order french onion soup; it usually gives me a headache it's so oniony. Glad I did today - this was sweet and rich, the onions totally caramelized. And LOADED with melted gruyere (I omitted the bread as I don't eat wheat). Almost a fondue. Yummy and a surprisingly rich, filling first course. Then Salade de Thon: barely seared slices of delicate tuna over a little fennel salad with wedges of roasted artichokes, with an amazing coulis of green onion on the side. And a nice kalamata olive tapenade on toast. Just delightful, and original too. The service was prompt, attentive, friendly. All in all this was as good a lunch as you can get. $70 for 2 with wine and generous tip. There were lots of other good-sounding things on the menu so we'll prob go back while we're here.
(5)Michael G.
My only other French Bistro experience was Le Bouchon in Bucktown/Wicker, and of the two, this is the favorite by a longshot. No knowledge of French food whatsoever did not create any setbacks here, from the conscientious waiter who offered middle of the road flavors in both red and white wines (just ask him, I can't remember their names, Bon Iver looking fellow, great dude) to their incredible French Onion appetizer, we'll get to entree's in a bit. Just want to stop and say I ate Pate here bc of that line in Ace Ventura...you know the one...and I now think as a whole it's gross. Can't fault Bistrot for that, but it's something to know. My lovely date had a chicken dish (that was flavored with bacon or ham! That's cheating! And it's genius!), with fresh garlic cloves, small onions, and potatoes : mind blowing. I'd come back for that alone. Had the Steak and Frite everyone has talked about here, and it is more than worth your time. I ordered medium, when I should've went Medium Rare though. I believe this is a sign they take their meat seriously. Best Creme Brulee I've had, a portion worth the price, ambiance at every turn : this place is a winner. Slapping the As Good As It Gets tag doesn't seem fair since I have almost no prior knowledge of French cuisine, but please please come here and give these ppl your business! Their beards are almost as powerful as their food.
(4)Emma K.
Nom nom nom.... I came here last night for girl's dinner with four of my friends. We had a reservation, but the restaurant was probably 2/3 empty. My friend who did make the reservation said that they didn't require the entire party to be there before seated - major PLUS (especially since I'm always the late one)! Our food came our quickly and was so yummy. I got the Crepe a La Ratatouille which has goat cheese and vegetables. It was the perfect size and filling without being too heavy. I do feel like this is super picky ... but all of the goat cheese on mine was on one side. I'm sure that's just how you make a crepe (I will be able to tell you after my crepe making class Sunday), but it just made it difficult to get that perfect bite. All of my friends enjoyed their meals too - the Crepe Au Polet, Croque Minsieur, and Risotto. (Excuse my French if I misspelled anything.) We shared a bottle of wine and our dinners were only $22/person. The atmosphere was nice and upscale without being pretentious. The service was great too. Our server was there explaining the menu and refilling our wine glasses when needed, but very unobtrusive and quiet. Splitting the bill was a piece of cake. I had a hard time deciding between the Crepe and the Vol-au-vent .... and I definitely want to come back to try the latter soon!
(4)Jerry L.
Good bistro comfort food on a chilly Chicago afternoon...roast chicken with a side of fries hit the spot!
(3)Melanie A.
This used to be my go-to French bistro, but it's really gone downhill in the past few years. When we sat at our table we noticed a gross chunk of something under one of the chairs, looked like something a dog threw up, and trying to flag someone down was impossible, so we had to grab a napkin from the bar and clean it up ourselves. The food is nothing spectacular, the chocolate pot de creme by no means lives up to it's name or what it's supposed to be. Highly disappointed and won't be back.
(2)Monica L.
Went to Bistro Zinc for a mother daughter night, my mother and I have been to many french bistro and Bistro Zinc stood far above the others. Reminding us of our trip to Paris, the cuisine and atmosphere were spot on. We loved our from scratch cocktails and the charming company of our waiter. I wish I could recall his name, he was the best waiter I have EVER had, that man deserves a raise! I had the stew du jour and it was a fantastic traditional dish. The chocolat mousse was to die for. Highly reccomend Bistro Zinc and hope to be returning again soon.
(5)Robert P.
We have been to Bistrot Zinc many times. It has provided a touch of Paris for us when we are not in Paris. We always liked the laid back atmosphere and good food. Maybe things were not so good because it was valentines day but overall we were disappointed. The bar was great as usual and the bartender was fantastic. Our table experience was something else. Jose, our server, was not friendly or attentive. We felt very rushed. The food appeared within ten minutes and looked as though it was pre-prepared and sitting under a heat lamp. The dessert, pot au creme, was definitely prepared well in advance with a skim surface on top indicating it's age. We know they are better than this.
(2)Paul T.
Superb, simply superb. I've been dining there for years, and Bistrot Zinc is remarkably consistent. Friendly, knowledgeable waiters, many of whom having been there for years. Highly recommended.
(5)Ryan W.
Now we will start with the positives: super cute decor and solid menu. The rating comes from the service aspect of my experience. We sat there at our table for a solid 10 minutes waiting to be greeted. The place didn't look particularly busy but who knows what the servers actual situation was, but some acknowledgement of that is always nice because then I'm not assuming the worst. He was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and took our order right away. Never saw him again until we almost finished our meals. Typically if my meal comes out correctly or I don't need anything I don't really mind but my burger was cooked medium well instead of medium rare and I would've loved some Dijon. I don't blame the server for burger being overcooked, I do fault him for not checking on our meals to make sure they were correct. Overall it was a nice place and I live right there so I'll give it another shot and hopefully the service aspect was a fluke.
(3)Daria D.
I went there for a date, the atmosphere was amazing and the service was impeccable. I had the escargot and calfs liver. I have never had both but this was one of the best meals I've had in a long time. I definitely will recommend this place to everyone I know.
(5)Tim T.
Absolute favorite French restaurant in Chicago. Every time we go, it gets better. The wait staff is very knowledgeable about the menu, the service is excellent, and the food is divine. It's just delicious French comfort food and so authentic. My highest compliments.
(5)Carol K.
Consistently good food, excellent service and lovely ambiance. I haven't been here is awhile and the whole time I was here I was wondering why I had stayed away for so long? I guess just too many great restaurants in Chicago and too little time. Well no problem as I was warmly welcomed and shown to a table with a group of friends. I was late so they were already a few martinis ahead of me but no problem- our server quickly rectified that situation! The food here is always good so we tried a few of the special appetizers to share (watermelon with feta, snails (delicious!), mussel (always my fav) and the pate (some of the best in the city!) For my entree I had the steak and frites which was perfectly cooked and most of the table had the fish special of the day which was the barramundi served over green beans. Simple food but always good. Our server, Bryan, was great! He even recognized me from a place he used to work (how do they do that?) and was very attentive throughout our meal. I loved his laugh as he is one of those rare servers who really seems to like his job so it seems like you are just sitting down at a table in his home. We all commented on how great he was which was no small feat given I was with a group from New York who seem to always start with what the problems are! Tres Bon in every way- Bistro Zinc is a great neighborhood place that takes wonderful care of it's guests!
(4)Stephanie C.
Check out the strange little custom of boiled eggs at the bar! I am a solo traveler and paid two visits during a weekend trip to Chicago. Francophiles should easily feel at home here, wayward travelers, too. Genial staff; crisp, clean interiors; and hot, fresh, satisfying food, much of it standard French bistro food but with a bit of dash. Best of all: French wines by the glass. Try the mussels and pate selections. Bon appetit!
(5)May Y.
Average food but a homey restaurant in a chill neighborhood. While some of my friends like Gold Coast a lot, I am more of an Old Town girl, especially my favorite restaurant Kamehachi and my favorite floral store A New Leaf are there. Nonetheless, Gold Coast is a great neighborhood. If you have to wait for a friend prior to lunch or dinner, you can stop by Barnes and Nobles or Anthropologist right across the street. Although the salad was average, the apple pie had a crispy edge that went well with the vanilla ice cream. The waiters were also very attentive. I would recommend you stopping by this little place if you are in the neighborhood. Food: 3 Service: 3 Decor: 4
(3)F D.
Just dined here tonight. Love the quaint atmosphere, if only they would play french music instead of American pop, the ambience would be complete. Although, our waiter left much to be desired in terms of service. Very slow and neglectful, and the place was only 25% occupied. Unfortunately I didn't try some of the more popular dishes - regretting that. We started with the duck pate and ratatouille. The pate was fine, ratatouille was extremely overcooked and tasted like it had been reheated a dozen times. Then I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, terrible mistake, not good at all. Taste-less boiled chicken, thrown in the oven to crisp the skin, over a bed of gravy with pearl onions, baby potatoes, and bacon. Flavors didn't mesh well at all, I ended up picking out the pieces of bacon and potatoes instead. My companion had the onion soup, very nice and flavorful. We ended with the almond butter cake and it was pretty good. A little dry, could've used a butter sauce over it, but the flavor was good. All in all, I'd go back, but definitely try other dishes.
(3)Craig R.
My wife and I have been here a number of times considering its close proximity to our old apartment. My thoughts: -Very great atmosphere, traditional French decor, quiet and classy -There's no TV at the bar so the bartender talks to you which is awesome -It's super easy to walk in any weeknight and just sit down which is great -The wait staff is really on top of it, very attentive and helpful -It is quite accessible, 22/36/Red Line all drop off right near it -The two food highlights from my side are: --The mussels are an easy 5/5 for me, ask for extra bread to dip!! --The Croque Monsiuer is a 4/5, I like the bread crispier --All other food has been tasty, these are just the most memorable I will definitely be back again in the future.
(4)Ray M.
Great French atmosphere inside. Busy and bustling staff pacing back and forth to satisfy customers needs. Elegant menu with just the correct amount of food offerings to satisfy even those that are not too familiar with French cuisine. Nice looking rustic bar area and beautify appointed art work and Parisian decor throughout the restaurant creating a very comfortable elegance. Ordered the French onion soup, mussels and quiche. Great descriptions of each item on the menu really romances your desire to try everything!
(4)Brett H.
If you like French food, this place is a must. Very elegant decor. Good wine menu. This visit we shared some Pate' and Steak Tartare, both of which were very good. For dinner, I had the Bouillabaisse, which was excellent. My wife had the Pan Seared Duck Breast which was good but a little over cooked. She ordered medium rare and it was medium to medium well. For dessert, I highly recommend the Profiterolies. The Almond butter cake with macerated berries is also very good. Great place for a quiet romantic dinner.
(4)Jessica C.
Get. The. Mussels. Everything is good here and you feel like you're in Paris. Seriously there is no wrong choice here. Allons-y!!
(5)Kay K.
Tried Bistrot Zinc for lunch. Although the food was high quality and unique and the prices were in the 15-25 range, I thought it was not palatable enough for me to give a 5 star. I had the chicken. Also, the service was a bit slow. It was a slow day, but it took a few extra minutes for the waiter to serve us.
(4)Lauren C.
Nothing is better than a french breakfast on a Sunday morning. That's why it was so great to find one that was so outstanding during our trip to Chicago. Bistro Zinc was open, easy, and had that french casual atmosphere that makes for a perfect Sunday morning. We each had a cappuccino, which was phenomenal, and shared the eggs benedict and quiche of the day. I can honestly say, that the quiche was one of the best I have ever had. It was a goat cheese mushroom quiche, that was light, cheesy and bright all at the same time. It came with a fresh green salad, and trust me....our plate was practically licked clean. Also, our service was absolutely phenomenal! Our waiter, Chris, was really personal and gave us some city tips for the rest of our stay. He even stayed up on our water intake, which we've learned that being from AZ, is much higher than the average Chicago-an, lol. Definitely looking forward to going back for another classic french brunch next time we are in Chicago!
(5)Andrea H.
I was torn between 4 and 5, as 4.5 stars is probably a pretty accurate reflection. I just couldn't think of that wow factor to round things up. That being said, our impromptu visit to Bistrot Zinc yesterday was an overall great experience. Fiancé and I visited BZ for Saturday brunch. The restaurant is cute and the open windows were nice. Window seats definitely enhanced the overall experience. I was surprised to find how large the restaurant actually is inside, would be good for a group visit. Service was attentive and our waiter was knowledgable about the menu. We ordered one breakfast and one lunch entree, and a crepe to split, and our waiter was thoughtful enough to offer the crepe as a second 'dessert course,' something we don't get asked too often. And the best part (for me, at breakfast)--my coffee cup was always full! Finally, the food: 1/2 Croque Monsieur sandwich with French onion soup- the sandwich was decent, but sadly the least memorable item of our visit. The soup was great, definitely worth a try! Eggs Benedict with Canadian bacon- tasty, decent portion, and well-rounded flavors. Fruit & Granola Crepe- Delicious! The crepe was good size and thickness. The filling was creamy, the perfect amount of sweetness, and with a nice assortment of fruits inside. It was the perfect end to our visit!
(4)Em M.
Cute Decor. Oily Food. Service: we had a bald Italian accent waiter who was very rude (like he was too good for his job), extremely inattentive (had to ask other staff any time we needed anything), caught him in a lie, denied it, even with proof. Next time, if I go back, ask for the fat tall gay guy. He served us more than our actual waiter. What a sweet guy. I would've given this place less stars if he haddn't stepped in. Food: Good, but everything is very butter. Ask for thing to be "dry." Salmon was bland and tasted mostly like it was flash fried. Flank was delicious, but tons of oil as well. Mostly grey hairs (older people).
(3)Merlin C.
This is seriously the best french restaurant in all of chicago. We had the french onion soup, mussles, and some other thing I forgot the name of but was amazing. Especailly nice if it's a warm day and they have the windows open.
(5)Conrad S.
Expensive garbage. The wine is massively over priced and low quality. The drinks I had lacked alcohol. Every single drink I ordered was either sugar water or water. My whiskey sour came watered down with club soda in a tall glass. My sidecar came without cognac (brandy is what I think they used). My duck dish was undercooked and inadequately seasoned. Making it a boring $27 dish. The deserts were meh and not at all inspiring. Take your friends to Lou malnatis across the street. It's much better.
(1)Christine L.
So I came for dinner, semi-early on a Friday night. The place wasn't very busy, but by the time we left it was fairly packed. While their menu isn't particularly extensive they do have very good options for dinner. This is my first foray into a restaurant that primarily identifies itself as "French" and I ordered the Poulet Grand Mère, which is basically roasted chicken over a stew of bacon, mushrooms, garlic, and pearl onions. It was a little different than I had anticipated. The jus was a little sweet, but I did like how they had nice soft whole cloves of garlic in the stew (I like garlic). Overall the food was decent, some of us enjoyed our meals better than others, but at their price point I would expect everything to be delicious. It got pretty dark inside while we were there, there were a number of couples there, it is definitely more of a date night place in the evenings. I do like the decor, very French-y. Service was good, while we had one waiter there were a number of people attending to our table of 5. Since others enjoyed their food much more than I did, I would definitely come back to try something else, but I probably wouldn't get my dish again...
(3)ML ..
Service was rough, neither professional nor pleasant. My onion soup wasn't all that great. I've definitely had better. I can see why they weren't packed when all other restaurants nearby were filled to the max.
(2)Anthony S.
Great place for fun French food with a pleasant atmosphere. Arugula with dates/bacon/Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette was a light and unique appetizer. Salmon over roasted fennel with smoked tomatoes was amazing. Fennel melted in your mouth and tomatoes were sweet but smoky. Dessert was fabulous mascarpone with berries and mint tea. Felt satiated but not stuffed. $80 for two not including tip.
(5)Brittany G.
Ian was a fabulous server. The ambiance was smooth music with dim lighting. Perfect for intimate dining
(5)Robert L.
Honestly the place is awesome. My gripe is that the food is expensive, but you do not get that much of it. I guess it's a French thing, but I didn't feel I got my money's worth.
(3)Jasmine B.
Oh la la la - quel grand repas (per google translate, that means "what a great meal") I don't know much about french food, but I do know I was pleased with Bistrot Zinc. My only issue I had was trying to pronounce some of the choices. Our server was most gracious in explaining dishes without any judgement. He was also kind enough to split our check for us per seat; we asked up-front because apparently people in Chicago don't split checks per seat (we had issues earlier in the day). My party of four tried many different dishes, including the escargot, a first for all of us, and we were delighted for the experience and surprised by the light taste. Another first for everyone, pate - it was quite good, too. I am a super fan of French Onion soup and am always trying to find the best of the best. Bistrot's was pretty fabulous, with gruyére cheese coated in every delicious bite. I had the Croque Monsieur for my entree and was impressed with the taste of this simple grilled ham and cheese sandwich, it must be the gruyére cheese. One of my counterparts had the La Crêpe au Poulet, she was impressed at the size, expecting only a 'regular sized' crêpe, not one the size of your head. We were all so full from our dinner and lunch earlier in the day that we opted to skip desert, but I can't wait to go back to give a couple a try. We all had drinks too, but heck if I can remember what they were now. All I can say is they were good, however one was so strong it was difficult to finish. Our water glasses were always full though, so we just followed a swig of martini with some water and we made it work. I can't wait to come back and try some more french goodies.
(4)Natalie C.
Came here for my 26th birthday celebration - the restaurant was great about accommodating our larger group (no need for a food/beverage minimum, they didn't mind that some of our party was exceedingly un-punctual, allowed us to pay with multiple credit cards and cash - all while providing quick and friendly service from when we were seated to when we cheerily moved on to post dinner drinks). The food was delightful - I taste a few different appetizers, the mussels were cooked perfectly and in a delicious cream sauce (soaked up the broth with a lot of bread, yum!), the pate with little gherkins, and escargot (happy garlicky wonderfulness). I had the calf's liver - it was cooked perfectly and served over mashed potatoes and topped with fried onion rings. Definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area looking for great French food and exceptional service. Will be back!
(5)Haley S.
Excellent french bistro. Well prepared steak frites, excellent red wine. My friend and I shared the banana and nutella crepe which was mind blowingly yummy. A good spot for a nice low key dinner on a Saturday night.
(4)Danny D.
Took the gf here for her birthday. Booked it on opentable and me tioned it h there that it was her bday. Two hours before our reservation I had to push it back a couple of hours and so I called and the hostess made it happen which was great - especially since it was a Friday night. Upon arrival the host and hostess wished my gf a happy bday which was really nice and they saved a table for us in the very crowded restaurant right next to the window. Well done Zinc peeps! The Pork Milanese was amazing. The gf had the trout on spinach and she liked it as I did, but she liked my pork dish better. Chocolate cake was great and came with a birthday candle too - very classy. Great atmosphere and experience - we will be back soon.
(4)Lesley G.
I think the reviews here are a bit critical; loved this bistro and food was great. We came for a late lunch and split the escargot, frisée salad and croque Monsieur. All were very good and our waitress knew well enough to space out the order so that my husband and I could enjoy each one. Each was perfectly cooked and came out piping hot. Wine was delicious and reasonably priced (for all the reviewers out there - a decent glass of wine will be between $8-$14 in Chicago...) Great food, great service, cute ambiance - will be back!
(5)Wes Cole C.
This bistro was very patient with me when I tried to perform a magic trick, yanked the table cloth, and sent all of the glassware crashing to the floor. The milk here is good. I like the French fries.
(4)Shan D.
Underrated spot for brunch. I love their mushroom and Brie crepe. The French toast is great if you want something on the sweeter side. You can also order lunch items if you're not in the breakfast mood. Sadly I haven't been here for dinner.
(4)Eve Laure R.
Two nights ago, my father reserved us a table at the Bistro Zinc for yesterday night. As we came in, there was nearly no noise level and the waiters were extremely nice as they even let us switch spot due to a little inconvenience. We were really happy to find on the table real bread and real butter à volonté. As we ordered, we took a full course starting with the appetizer: my father took the Salade d'Endives which was very good. My sister took a Gratin de Pommes de terre et fenouille to die for. As for my mother and I, we shared the Moules marinières who weren't Marinières but more crème de Safran; not being disappointed though because the taste was new and as a different style. Next was the entrées. My father took a steak Frites and was mostly satisfied with the meat but the frites were extremely salted. My sister took a Croque Monsieur which totally dissatisfied her because the bread was not grilled as it needed due to it being stuffed and puffed with the Cheese or the Béchamel they put in. My mother took a Quiche du Jour which was quite nice except it was enormous- frankly I have never seeing anything like that- and the crust was overcooked. As for myself, I took the Tagine de Légumes which greatly satisfied me. The taste was smooth and well put together an the plate was not as big as my family's. The entrees being big made us a bit disappointed because it doesn't show the true French cuisine. By that time more people arrived making the noise level higher and in between supportable and headache maker. But what happened is that the waiters were overflowing with work making them have little time for each table they serve. Lastly, the desserts which were the Baies à la Mascarpone and the Gâteau au Beurre d'Amandes. We were very glad we took them and let our bellies pop out! The fruits were tasty and not atomic and full of water. The Almond butter cake was warm and the dishes were small. I was delicious. As a French person, I was quite satisfied with my food but my parents and sister weren't that happy with their experience and we were all a bit disappointed I guess. But way to go in trying!
(3)David S.
Went last Friday evening for a nice dinner with my girlfriend, we live right down the street and hadn't been there yet (even though we've lived in the area for about a year), ambiance was great, servers, bussers were great, food was ok. For the price, the Steak Frites was a total rip off I thought and I am not some rich yuppy. The steak had the consistency of hamburger meat and was really, really thin. My girlfriends meal was good however. She had a ham and cheese melt of some kind. I would return, however, not for the occasion of a nice dinner. If you want a great French dinner, try Mon Ami Gabi in Lincoln Park.
(3)Michael C.
I really enjoyed the bistrot zinc, pretty fancy looking golden interior with the service staff dressed in all white. We came in 10:30 on a Sunday morning and we happened to be the only ones in the restaurant. Pretty unexpected awesomeness since brunching in Chicago can have nightmare waits. We were seated immediately and brought our menus. The selection is nothing spectacular but had some unique things- the croque monsieur and a lamb sandwich as breakfast dishes which my girlfriend and I both shared. The croque monsieur was a fluffy french toast hamd and cheese sandwich. Very savory and the cheese used was quite sharp- tasty dish. My lamb sandwich included thinly sliced lamb piled on and had a good charred favor. It was definitely different and I appreciated the smokiness although I don't think I would ever get it again. What was disappointing was that it came with chips instead of french fries! Luckily my girlfriend was nice enough to share hers with me (they came with croque monsieur). My friends at the table got a mushroom crepe, a quiche, and french toast. All seemed very pleased with the meal. Afterwards we split a banana nutella crepe which was divine! Stuffed with bananas and oozing with chocolate, we ended breakfast on a definite high note. Overall I would recommend this place for its great service and pretty solid food!
(4)Nigel P.
My partner and I have a tradition: we come here for lunch on the last day of our annual visit to Chicago. Consequently, I have bittersweet memories of Bistrot Zinc as we always hate to leave. For our next visit I am determined to have dinner here on the day of our arrival. It only seems fitting to do that which one loves as soon as possible, and we love Bistrot Zinc. Come for the martinis (always perfect) and stay for the food (always fabulous)!
(5)Monika S.
Service was great! Waiters were competent and were attentive to our needs and made sure that our cup are always filled. Furthermore, our meal always came out right on time. I enjoyed the company of the manager who was quite easy going and friendly. It made me feel relaxed. It is a lovely place. It is really a nice place, but I am giving it 4 stars because it falls short in the food department. I am not saying food is bad, I just don't think the flavor and taste blew me away. I think I had taste something better.
(4)Melissah L.
Pretty good! Nothing too special, but it was a relaxed place for Sunday brunch. I got a croque monsieur with fries, which was good but not great. The food on the menu is pretty simple-- so if you have a taste for the usually eggs benedict, burger, scrambled eggs etc, you will find something you like here!
(3)Haliun Z.
First of all stroller friendly if your little one is with you! My crew (6 couples) had a great brunch there. They organized everything for us. We made a reservation a week ago. Food was delicious. Everyone was happy.
(5)Mike D.
Came for lunch before heading to the airport. This was recommended by our concierge at the Peninsula. The onion soup and escargots were delicious. They were served piping hot which is a real plus for me. It seems too many restaurants are serving their food lukewarm which is real turnoff. My companion had a burger with steak frites. The burger was cooked to perfection and the frites were nice and crispy. With the onion soup I had a half a sandwich which is a special. The place would have received five stars except the bread on the Croque Monsieur was massive. It was similar to Texas Toast and was very soggy. You can find some values on the wine list if you stick to the French ones. I had the Cotes du Rhone by Guigal. Although the place reminds me of bistros in France, the servers are attentive, friendly, and helpful. I would recommend the Bistrot Zinc.
(4)David C.
This is a must for anyone visiting the Gold Coast of Chicago. The feel, look, food and wine are all French. The waiter was attentive and knowledgeable. Not hovering but always available. Portions are reasonable. Presentation is excellent. Wine list is one page and covers several regions, tastes and price ranges. An excellent Brut Rosé Cremant de Limoux by the glass. I had the duck with spaetzle and I recommend it.
(5)Teema C.
Hubby and I went here for dinner one of the nights we were in Chicago. When we got it around 5:45pm there weren't many other people, but it filled up fast and seems to be a popular place. Excellent soups - I had the french onion and hubby had the Moroccan carrot (soup of the day), both were great. We shared the Steak Au Povire which was tasty and perfectly cooked. Service was average, nothing to write home about. And ambiance was nothing special.
(4)Andy H.
We ordered the french onion soup and a croque monsier sandwich. The soup tasted like a french onion soup should which was good. The croque monsier was pretty average, not too much flavor but a little bit on the salty side. The pommes frites that came with it were good but nothing special.
(3)Matthew W.
I've been going to Bistro Zinc for lunch and dinner for years, and not once has this restaurant been anything but stellar! This is a truly charming, deeply authentic bistro that adds a touch of class to the block just north of Viagra Triangle. The crowd is local, the space incredibly well appointed (The artwork on the walls is, actually, spectacular. Keep your eyes peeled for the rather daring painting by the windows in the front!). Most importantly at Bistro Zinc, though, is the food. Classic, simple, delicious and authentic. I love dropping in for lunch for the soup/salad combo. And there's nothing like spending a warm summer evening at Bistro Zinc, with the massive front windows open, allowing you to enjoy your meal as you look out onto the street. One of the city's true treasures. Enjoy!
(5)David E.
I can't say enough about the excellent service, the atmosphere ripped straight from Paris and the marvelous food. The cocktails were quite good. I enjoyed their French onion soup, and the vol-au-vent. My date had the salmon and lentils. Both were perfect. Take the time to stop in.
(5)James F.
A great place for dinner - fine French food without being too formal. Nice wines and yummy desserts too! Since I wasn't feeling too adventurous on the day we dined here, i chose the Vol-au-vent: yelp.com/biz_photos/bist… which was filled with a great chicken stew. it was a like a french chicken pot pie - great chicken and carrots served in a flaky puff pastry over mashed potatoes. it hit the spot (though it's a lot of carbs!). then i had dessert - split a Gateau au Chocolat with the wife. yum! Good service, friendly decor, good food! I'd definitely like to come back to Bistrot Zinc next time I'm in Chicago, and in general, i'm not even a fan of French cuisine.
(5)Yvonne Y.
Quaint bistro decor, perfect for brunch with kids as they take reservations. Love the traditional small-tiled floor. We had brunch on Bastille day and they even had a woman dressed in 19th century costume serving cake! They served ham & cheese or nutella crepes for kids that my daughter claimed was better than her grandpa's! I had the spinach benedicte which I found the eggs a bit undercooked (clear, liquidy egg white). 1 of my 3 cups of coffee tasted a bit stale and not particularly hot. Friendly, non-pushy staff. Would return and try their lunch items when I'm back in the neighborhood.
(3)Yvonne B.
I am hovering between two and three stars for this review. There were some aspects of my dining experience at Bistrot Zinc that were absolutely phenomenal (our server was really top notch) and other things that we frowned at (the mussels). A lot of the evening was just okay. Duck Confit - It was a really tasty combination of duck, greens, bacon, and raisins. Potato Soup with Haricots Verts - A nice blend of potatoes with an earthy garlic flavor. Chev Salad - Hit the spot: crumbled goat cheese with pickled (?) pears. Mussels - Low quality and over cooked. Fries - I could make better at home. These were plain as plain can be. Chocolate Mousse - M didn't comment about it, didn't finish it, but chose to take most of it home to sit in the fridge untouched. Almond Cake - surprisingly well balanced. I don't usually like cake that much but thought that this one had good almond flavor, nice texture, and wasn't too sweet. With drinks, our bill came to $120. The ambiance is like other bistros: benches along the walls, mirrors, and large artwork. I'd say this is a really good spot for folks who live close by who are looking for a solid (somewhat casual) dinner OR people who happen to be in the Gold Coast and are craving French food. Personally, I wouldn't seek it out for a special occasion or anything.
(2)Steve A.
Food is very average. Steak frites is banal and chewy. Salmon crepe has 3 slivers of smoked salmon (and only $14!)--thanks so much! Everything is just very very lazy. And SORRY, no specials available for lunch! Why? Well, as the very kind bartender told me a couple of years ago, before this place became garbage, "basically just laziness." Yes, the lunch crew has all the ingredients and knowledge to prepare specials for lunch, but no you can't have any. The old bartender used to go against policy and get me specials for lunch anyway by basically telling the cooks to simply do their job, and yes, back then, the food was good. Now, it's terribly average. Moreover, it's impossible to order take out from this place! I called on Thursday, a bit after 5 pm, and I was told "We don't do takeout after 5pm." Odd, but okay. Perhaps fanciful elves wander into the kitchen just before dinner and steal all the to-go cartons. Yes, that must be it. Then I called on Sunday, at 4:38, and asked for take out. What was I told? "Sorry, we don't do take-out orders after fiv... 4:30." Ya, eff you too. Idiots. Done with this place. May your business follow where your food and staff have gone, down the toilet, forever and ever. P.S. Thanks for doing your little part in making the Gold Coast horrible.
(1)Jenny H.
First off, BZ was delightfully quaint from the bar to the vintage tiled floors. Great place to take in a leisurely weekend. The fellow seated next to us was quite dapper, taking in a cup of coffee and a newspaper. But oh my cheesy-bistro stars... What possessed me to order a french onion soup with a croque monsieur? I love me some gruyere as much as the next person, but I should've known that I was setting myself up for a crazy cheesed-out lunch endeavor. Despite this regrettable ordering mishap, the french onion surpassed any other french onions I've ever had. My lunch buddy's lamb sandwich was pretty decent, but I'm not a big fan of lamb. Yes to the french onion, but next time if I'm ordering the soup again I'll probably go for something less cheese-inspired.
(3)Alice H.
This is my version of comfort food. If I've had a long day... maybe I missed lunch, maybe I'm exhausted at the end of the week, I crave Bistro Zinc. Specifically, I crave their fries. To me, they have the perfect fries. Thin, salty, crispy. Perfect ratio of potato to skin. I love them! In addition to my ginormous plate of fries, I will usually also enjoy the rainbow trout with spinach and cherry tomatoes or the poulet grand-mere. Those two are my favorite. Both are wonderful dishes. I am a creature of habit so I tend to always get one of those two dishes. I rarely deviate, and when I do, I tend to regret doing so. The service is always wonderful. The staff is incredibly attentive, not pushy. The atmosphere of the restaurant is charming and sweet (very much in line with being a french bistro), but it is also very comfortable and relaxing. I never feel rushed, and that's important. The last thing I want when I've had a stressful week at work is to feel like I'm being rushed at dinner on a Friday night. On top of that, I've rarely ever had to wait for a table. There's usually always a small table or seat at the bar to munch at. For someone who rarely has the foresight to make a reservation, I know I can walk in here on a Friday or Saturday night, and not have a problem. Bistro Zinc = comfort, easy, tasty.
(4)Margreth C.
I've been wanting to try this place since I moved to the Gold Coast in the summer. Decided to try it for restaurant week and glad that I did! I got the scallop/salmon appetizer, which was good. I prefer hot foods but it was still good. For my main entree, I got the steak and fries (my favorite)! It was a pretty big portion, which I was surprised. I had the steak medium well, and it was just right! For dessert, I had the coffee one and that just ended it with a bang! Overall, I was satisfied with the restaurant as a whole. The service was great! Anytime I had my water half empty, they would make their rounds, which I never had to ask for a refill! The server was very attentive and always made sure we were okay. I would definitely come back again!
(4)Peter W.
We had a friend coming in from New York and decided to go for Sunday Brunch. A friend of mine recommended Bistrot Zinc and when I looked up the location, I was really thrown off. It is right next to the Viagra Triangle and we're not a fan of the scene around there. But the other reviews were good and the photos looked great, so we decided why not try it out. I'm so glad we went there. The staff was extremely friendly, the decor was actually little more like a Brasserie (a little more ornate) than a Bistro, the scene was not full of Trixies, and the food was delicious! I happy to know that I found a place in that area that I actually feel comfortable bringing out-of-towners to. We'll be back!
(5)Rits M.
Very authentic looking Bistrot. Came here for date night and it works rather well. There isn't too much space but I was expecting that. They had put up hooks for coats which was smart. Looks warm and cosy thanks to the red walls. I had the escargots, the salade chèvre, the Mediterranean crepe and the creme brûlée. The escargots were delicious and I would definitely order them again. I was a little surprised by the portions, they were large for French food. The brûlée was outstanding, if I had to nit pick, I would say that the top was too thick but the texture of the cream and the taste was perfect. I would give the crepe a miss, while it was well prepared and tasted good, it wasnt something I would remember. Also, this place has half bottles of wine, perfect if you are not in the mood to get completely soused.
(4)Jennifer H.
I loved this place. The owner came over and explained the menu and specials to us. I started with a glass of sparkling rose and had a delicious poached chicken salad for lunch (La Salade Hachée) at a window seat. I got the almond cake with fresh cream and berries to top off a perfect lunch. Divine.
(5)Aidan M.
Where to start...One: The steak frites is amazing, I ate it in like a minute and a half. Two: I'm ashamed to say I ate two meals. One being the steak frites and the other being banana and Nutella crepes. (It was easter and I mean why not) Three: The staff was really friendly... actually it was probably because I like doubled the waiter's tip with all my food. Four: They ask if you would like dessert...at ten am...ok... Five: The food comes pretty quick and its clearly not prepackaged crud from like a multibillion dollar food company. Six: I'm going back, definitely
(5)Charles S.
Had a first date here, and everything was fantastic. We tried escargot, had a great bottle of red wine, and our entrees were great. I would recommend this place to anyone. Watch out though - it gets pretty packed so make a reservation.
(5)N Q.
Actually they deserve 3 1/2 stars, but Yelp doesn't do half stars. I am making it 3 then, rather than rounding up to 4, since the service was painfully slow. The food was decent. I had the duck, which was a special, and asked for it medium rare. It came out too rare, almost rubbery, but they fixed it when I asked, which was good. I also had the beet salad which was alright, not bad but nothing to write home mom about. Service knocks off a 1/2 star, since it was so slow, although my server was perfectly friendly and polite, there were whole stretches of time I was essentially ignored. It's just good to check up on someone occasionally, you know? Also, I wouldn't normally mind paying these prices for better food (the duck was about $25), but unfortunately the food quality and taste doesn't quite match the price tag. I may come again, however, as the atmosphere was quiet yet comfortable, pretty decent, conversation-friendly noise level, and I like that. Perhaps my experience will be better next time. By the way, I also ordered this chocolate mousse dessert which was nice. Not spectacular, but it hit the spot! They gave me raspberries with it too, upon request. Chocolate and raspberries = A nice way to end the meal :)
(3)Larry S.
Third visit and my opinion has not changed. This place is the real deal. Had superb French Onion Soup and a perfectly prepared soft shelled crab over a corn and pepper salsa. Cant go wrong!
(5)Nelson M.
Restaurant Review French Bistro in the Gold Coast! I came here for my three year wedding anniversary for lunch with my wife and son. I was not disappointed. You would think having a 8 month old with you would be a problem in a french bistro, but no. The staff was super friendly and placed us at a table where we could easily fit the stroller. The menu prices for this area were quite good. We started off with the house pate, a bit gamey for my taste but ample portions for the price you pay. I wish they would give you more bread with the pate. I ended up with a lighter meal by selecting the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli) As other's commented the onion was way too much and had to be removed from the sandwich, but otw the lamb was cooked well and the seasoning went well with the protein. I can't say it was the best sandwich I ever had, but I will be back to try the other french bistro items. 4 stars as being a promising restaurant that I will have to come back and try more items. Pro- friendly service, good price, great ambiance Con- more bread with the pate please! Hidden deal- None
(4)Joe S.
Overall, I'd probably say 2.5 stars. Our server was a bit in your face. Pointed at the specials, grunted..he was inattentive at best, forgot wine order, kinda aloof. The food was average. The highlight was probably the french onion soup. I had the chicken with fingerling potatoes and my wife had the parmesan pepper crusted steak. Both were mediocre. I noticed someone else mentioned the wine..I have no issue paying $12-$16 for a glass of wine provided its quality. The french pinot noir was decent enough, but the rest was average.
(2)Ruma T.
Just went there last night with friends for the first time and it was good. I think its more like a 3.5 and I wish the star system had 10 stars instead of 5 because that would make it much easier to rate. Anyway, besides the point. We had wine..of course. They had a variety of wines by the glass and we tried quite a few and they were delicious. We got the arugula salad and it was alright. The entrees that impressed were the salmon and skate. I'd definitely recommend it and I'm not even typically a fan of salmon. The caramelized oniony topping on it was perfect although I wish it was warm instead of cold. Worth a visit. Good atmosphere, great for a date, and not too crowded or difficult to park.
(3)Paola C.
Seriously loved this spot. The service was absolutely A+, food was delicious - I had a crêpe au poulet which comes with mushrooms and the fallen-from-heaven crème brûlée, must try! - and the atmosphere is so Parisienne! Perfect. Wanna go back for sure.
(5)Stephan K.
Very good food. Clean, crisp, and tasty. Ambiance is more traditional. Try the French soup and walleye. Service is top notch.
(5)Bri A.
Chez Moi is my favorite French restaurant in the city, but this is now my second! I came here for brunch with my family and everyone, even my 4 year old niece, loved their food. The menu has standard, simple French fare, but it's GOOD. I'm not a big onion fan so I didn't try the French onion soup, but everyone raved about it. Escargot was buttery, garlicy and delicious. I had a sandwich with turkey, fig jam, brie and watercress which was tasty, but I regret not getting a crepe! The truffle egg salad is so good, too. I loved the ambiance and our waiter was so nice! He made sure to bring my niece's sandwich ASAP when she proclaimed, "I'm STARVING!" lol. Brunch was great and I'd like to come back for dinner.
(5)Charlie B.
I don't give out 5 stars lightly; this place deserves them. We (just) had brunch/lunch, ~2PM Saturday. My husband had the best french toast of his life (this is saying something). Practically a souffle it was so light and custardy. I had the onion soup and the tuna salad, both terrific. The soup: I never order french onion soup; it usually gives me a headache it's so oniony. Glad I did today - this was sweet and rich, the onions totally caramelized. And LOADED with melted gruyere (I omitted the bread as I don't eat wheat). Almost a fondue. Yummy and a surprisingly rich, filling first course. Then Salade de Thon: barely seared slices of delicate tuna over a little fennel salad with wedges of roasted artichokes, with an amazing coulis of green onion on the side. And a nice kalamata olive tapenade on toast. Just delightful, and original too. The service was prompt, attentive, friendly. All in all this was as good a lunch as you can get. $70 for 2 with wine and generous tip. There were lots of other good-sounding things on the menu so we'll prob go back while we're here.
(5)Gigi G.
The French onion soup is Delish! Great Ambiance. Amazing staff.
(5)Michael G.
My only other French Bistro experience was Le Bouchon in Bucktown/Wicker, and of the two, this is the favorite by a longshot. No knowledge of French food whatsoever did not create any setbacks here, from the conscientious waiter who offered middle of the road flavors in both red and white wines (just ask him, I can't remember their names, Bon Iver looking fellow, great dude) to their incredible French Onion appetizer, we'll get to entree's in a bit. Just want to stop and say I ate Pate here bc of that line in Ace Ventura...you know the one...and I now think as a whole it's gross. Can't fault Bistrot for that, but it's something to know. My lovely date had a chicken dish (that was flavored with bacon or ham! That's cheating! And it's genius!), with fresh garlic cloves, small onions, and potatoes : mind blowing. I'd come back for that alone. Had the Steak and Frite everyone has talked about here, and it is more than worth your time. I ordered medium, when I should've went Medium Rare though. I believe this is a sign they take their meat seriously. Best Creme Brulee I've had, a portion worth the price, ambiance at every turn : this place is a winner. Slapping the As Good As It Gets tag doesn't seem fair since I have almost no prior knowledge of French cuisine, but please please come here and give these ppl your business! Their beards are almost as powerful as their food.
(4)Emma K.
Nom nom nom.... I came here last night for girl's dinner with four of my friends. We had a reservation, but the restaurant was probably 2/3 empty. My friend who did make the reservation said that they didn't require the entire party to be there before seated - major PLUS (especially since I'm always the late one)! Our food came our quickly and was so yummy. I got the Crepe a La Ratatouille which has goat cheese and vegetables. It was the perfect size and filling without being too heavy. I do feel like this is super picky ... but all of the goat cheese on mine was on one side. I'm sure that's just how you make a crepe (I will be able to tell you after my crepe making class Sunday), but it just made it difficult to get that perfect bite. All of my friends enjoyed their meals too - the Crepe Au Polet, Croque Minsieur, and Risotto. (Excuse my French if I misspelled anything.) We shared a bottle of wine and our dinners were only $22/person. The atmosphere was nice and upscale without being pretentious. The service was great too. Our server was there explaining the menu and refilling our wine glasses when needed, but very unobtrusive and quiet. Splitting the bill was a piece of cake. I had a hard time deciding between the Crepe and the Vol-au-vent .... and I definitely want to come back to try the latter soon!
(4)Jerry L.
Good bistro comfort food on a chilly Chicago afternoon...roast chicken with a side of fries hit the spot!
(3)Melanie A.
This used to be my go-to French bistro, but it's really gone downhill in the past few years. When we sat at our table we noticed a gross chunk of something under one of the chairs, looked like something a dog threw up, and trying to flag someone down was impossible, so we had to grab a napkin from the bar and clean it up ourselves. The food is nothing spectacular, the chocolate pot de creme by no means lives up to it's name or what it's supposed to be. Highly disappointed and won't be back.
(2)Monica L.
Went to Bistro Zinc for a mother daughter night, my mother and I have been to many french bistro and Bistro Zinc stood far above the others. Reminding us of our trip to Paris, the cuisine and atmosphere were spot on. We loved our from scratch cocktails and the charming company of our waiter. I wish I could recall his name, he was the best waiter I have EVER had, that man deserves a raise! I had the stew du jour and it was a fantastic traditional dish. The chocolat mousse was to die for. Highly reccomend Bistro Zinc and hope to be returning again soon.
(5)Robert P.
We have been to Bistrot Zinc many times. It has provided a touch of Paris for us when we are not in Paris. We always liked the laid back atmosphere and good food. Maybe things were not so good because it was valentines day but overall we were disappointed. The bar was great as usual and the bartender was fantastic. Our table experience was something else. Jose, our server, was not friendly or attentive. We felt very rushed. The food appeared within ten minutes and looked as though it was pre-prepared and sitting under a heat lamp. The dessert, pot au creme, was definitely prepared well in advance with a skim surface on top indicating it's age. We know they are better than this.
(2)Paul T.
Superb, simply superb. I've been dining there for years, and Bistrot Zinc is remarkably consistent. Friendly, knowledgeable waiters, many of whom having been there for years. Highly recommended.
(5)Ryan W.
Now we will start with the positives: super cute decor and solid menu. The rating comes from the service aspect of my experience. We sat there at our table for a solid 10 minutes waiting to be greeted. The place didn't look particularly busy but who knows what the servers actual situation was, but some acknowledgement of that is always nice because then I'm not assuming the worst. He was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and took our order right away. Never saw him again until we almost finished our meals. Typically if my meal comes out correctly or I don't need anything I don't really mind but my burger was cooked medium well instead of medium rare and I would've loved some Dijon. I don't blame the server for burger being overcooked, I do fault him for not checking on our meals to make sure they were correct. Overall it was a nice place and I live right there so I'll give it another shot and hopefully the service aspect was a fluke.
(3)Daria D.
I went there for a date, the atmosphere was amazing and the service was impeccable. I had the escargot and calfs liver. I have never had both but this was one of the best meals I've had in a long time. I definitely will recommend this place to everyone I know.
(5)Tim T.
Absolute favorite French restaurant in Chicago. Every time we go, it gets better. The wait staff is very knowledgeable about the menu, the service is excellent, and the food is divine. It's just delicious French comfort food and so authentic. My highest compliments.
(5)Carol K.
Consistently good food, excellent service and lovely ambiance. I haven't been here is awhile and the whole time I was here I was wondering why I had stayed away for so long? I guess just too many great restaurants in Chicago and too little time. Well no problem as I was warmly welcomed and shown to a table with a group of friends. I was late so they were already a few martinis ahead of me but no problem- our server quickly rectified that situation! The food here is always good so we tried a few of the special appetizers to share (watermelon with feta, snails (delicious!), mussel (always my fav) and the pate (some of the best in the city!) For my entree I had the steak and frites which was perfectly cooked and most of the table had the fish special of the day which was the barramundi served over green beans. Simple food but always good. Our server, Bryan, was great! He even recognized me from a place he used to work (how do they do that?) and was very attentive throughout our meal. I loved his laugh as he is one of those rare servers who really seems to like his job so it seems like you are just sitting down at a table in his home. We all commented on how great he was which was no small feat given I was with a group from New York who seem to always start with what the problems are! Tres Bon in every way- Bistro Zinc is a great neighborhood place that takes wonderful care of it's guests!
(4)Stephanie C.
Check out the strange little custom of boiled eggs at the bar! I am a solo traveler and paid two visits during a weekend trip to Chicago. Francophiles should easily feel at home here, wayward travelers, too. Genial staff; crisp, clean interiors; and hot, fresh, satisfying food, much of it standard French bistro food but with a bit of dash. Best of all: French wines by the glass. Try the mussels and pate selections. Bon appetit!
(5)Rebecca R.
I like this place but I'm not blown away either. It's a little overpriced but it's still has a nice ambiance. I went the other night with a friend and we ordered the scallops as an appetizer. The appetizer cost $13 and we got TWO scallops. So basically each scallop was $7.50. I figured we'd get more than two for that price but we didn't... I ordered the pork milanese which was very good. It came with a small tomato heirloom salad but overall it was one big piece of pounded meat. Good food, a little overpriced, romantic ambiance.
(3)Chris T.
Stopped by for brunch and left satisfied. I'm not usually a fan of french cuisine (sacre bleu!) but the food, ambience and service were all magnifique. Food: I had the Lamb Sandwich, and the meat was tender and delicious. I ended up taking out the onion from the sandwich, which made it much better in my opinion; the onion was particularly strong. The quiche of the day was also quite good. The day we were there it was bacon and leek quiche. It fills you up! One of the best parts is that when you checkin through four square you get a free cocktail! So don't forget to.
(4)lisa N.
The Denny's of French restaurants. Mild and inoffensive flavors, my anchovy salad was a sea of whitish romaine ribs with 3 small anchovies and two dead cold premade toast pieces encrusted with congealed cheese, also cold. The French woman next to is finished neither her pate or crenels brule and declined to take it home. Good for people who are afraid of non us food.
(2)Samantha H.
I love the classic French bistro flare of this place. The atmosphere is cozy but still busy and bustling. The wine list is quite approachable as well. You have to ask for butter with the bread but the bread is yummy. Our server was Ian and he was just excellent as well. One criticism is that the menu does not say what the dishes come with. They are actually huge portions. I did not realize mine would come with a large portion of mashed potatoes as well as the main so that could be described a little better. But overall the experience was great and I'll definitely be back. We started with some venison terrine and escargot. I feel that for escargot it really matters about the texture and if you get some sea flavor from the snail as anything in a bunch of garlic and butter will be awesome. So I usually am underwhelmed. These were actually really good. Not quite Maudes, but my second favorite I've had. They had a perfect crunchy crust on the top and the snail flavor actually came through. The venison was just okay. There were very large pieces of pistachio in there that made it a bit difficult to eat. I also am a huge fan of venison and I didn't get that much true flavor. The cherry stuff they served with it was awesome though. I got the skate wing, which was prepared phenomenally. Skate is so easy to mess up and many times when you order it, it comes mushy and lacks the delicacy that makes it so succulent. This was the perfect balance of tender meat with the light, crispy skin. It came with mashed potatoes that were dynamite as well. My husband got the special stew, which was a chicken and tomato stew that he said was awesome. I was so stuffed I couldn't try it. Yet I tied the profiterole, which was very tasty, despite me not being a dessert person. So nothing was bad foodwise but some things were stand outs. I look forward to trying some other things next time and being aware of portion sizes for my next visit.
(4)Sujin Y.
Went for Valentine's day. Good thing we made reservations because it was very full. Escargot (7/10): I've had better escargot in other French restaurants. Cooked well but overloaded with garlic. Lyonnaise salad (7/10): Missing a acidic element. Need more citrus. Greens were too bitter. Puff pastry with chicken stew (9.5/10): Dish of the night! Too much puff pastry and mashed potatoes overwhelmed the stew. Almost perfect! Braised beef short ribs (6/10): Sauce was too salty and the short ribs weren't fall apart yet. Needed more cooking time. Chocolate mousse (7/10): A bit too over whipped. It affected the texture. Also the chocolate had a very bitter and sour aftertaste. Service (7/10): Our waiter was slow to come back to our table. Just an inconvenience when we wanted to order and such.
(4)Margo F.
Lovely dinner! Fab service. Poulet grand mere is worth the trip--chicken in wine sauce perfectly seasoned. Vol au vent equally flavorful. Wolf fish mmmm. Great bread--wonderful endive salad. Plain old burger excellent. Neat menu variety.
(5)Christopher S.
This was my second time at this place. I love the service and the atmosphere. The food is great and it's perfect for a special occasion. I wound recommend this place.
(5)Paul M.
I think this is a great French Bistro. One of the best parts about it is that it isn't too small and cramped. When discussing Frenchness, the waiter asked for our drink orders and I said what's a "French" cocktail? I had just been talking about how in High School all the videos are incessantly about ordering a Kir Royale. The waiter actually suggested a Kir Royale! Well we don't want cocktails made with champagne, we want booze. But he could provide an actual cocktail menu that had some delightful real drinks on it. All the appetizers and main dishes were excellent. And the décor -- with a lot of tile work -- feels very early 20th century Paris too.
(5)Daniel N.
Recently some new friends of ours took us to this place. We had just changed into some scrubby clothes and were kind of afraid when they said it was a french bistro type place. Yes it was on the upscale side, white table clothes (covered in paper), servers dressed up, dark rooms, candle lit tables but they were a-ok with us in shorts (and I was in a hoodie). They still treated us with respect as if we showed up in tails and a top hat. The food was fantastic too. I had the ratatouille which was crepe style and tasted fantastic. My wife had the Croque Monsieur which was awesome (I'd hate to see the fat content on this sandwich though, with all the cheesy goodness and butter!). Our friends say they come about once every other month and they have yet to have anything bad there. Fantastic place.
(4)JM K.
Nice backcloth, friendly staff, cute name, okay food.A decent pâté is the minimum you should expect from a bistro, not a cheap liver mousse. Overall, overrated. For a way better food experience and charming Parisian brasserie feel, order a steak frites at Mon Ami Gabi. For a casual yet more inspired French bistro food, have a try at Chez Moi on Halsted.
(2)May Y.
Average food but a homey restaurant in a chill neighborhood. While some of my friends like Gold Coast a lot, I am more of an Old Town girl, especially my favorite restaurant Kamehachi and my favorite floral store A New Leaf are there. Nonetheless, Gold Coast is a great neighborhood. If you have to wait for a friend prior to lunch or dinner, you can stop by Barnes and Nobles or Anthropologist right across the street. Although the salad was average, the apple pie had a crispy edge that went well with the vanilla ice cream. The waiters were also very attentive. I would recommend you stopping by this little place if you are in the neighborhood. Food: 3 Service: 3 Decor: 4
(3)FatmanStan F.
Dare I say incredible? I lived on the upper west side of NYC for four years next to the most charming unassuming French bistro there called Cafe Du Soleil. Really grew to be love about French cuisine. I just moved back to Chicago a week ago, didn't think I would find something incredible so soon. I had the scallop, they were ok, I've had better. The ox tail risotto was out of this universe. really cozy decor and moderately warm staff. Will be back.
(4)Mark H.
Mushroom Chicken Crepe for lunch. Hmmm? Was tempted by the bartender who persuaded me with a generous Vodka on the rocks drink. I figured....It was Friday afternoon. The warm summer breeze. The window doors were wide open, people were happy passing by. Y not try chicken w/ pancake?! Well, the presentation was just that. But after my initial awkwardly timid bite... I was hooked. The mushy yet slosh y cream with the soft crepe and chicken combination prepared by the chef made my taste buds crave more and more until I inhaled it while still leaving on the table a half glass of my liquid fuel?!!! Yup. Y not 5 stars than. It was a business date. Company matters. Sorry Bistrot Zinc otherwise it would be 5.
(4)Kathleen M.
Stopped in for our final meal while in Chicago and it was just lovely. We got there pretty early for brunch, right when they opened, and it was pretty quiet. The windows along the street were open, they had fresh flowers on the tables, and I almost felt like I was back in France. While my sister waxed poetic about the french toast, I couldn't deny the Croque Monsieur. I've had a hard time finding a decent version of the sandwich in Atlanta so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to get my hands on a good one. I don't regret my decision in the least. The sandwich was the right amount of creamy and crunchy, fatty without being greasy, and as decadent and flavorful as I could hope. The skinny fries were equally addictive. Our server couldn't have been nicer and everyone in my crew seemed delighted with their dishes. Chicago has so many delicious eateries it will be hard to pick what to hit up on my next visit, but Bistrot Zinc will likely be on my short list.
(5)Mrs. F.
Because they have a limited and standard French menu, this restaurant has been able to concentrate on perfecting their recipes. I've always enjoyed the Poulet Grand Mere, the trout, and the salmon. I tried the steak frites as well, but found it too salty, which is why I took it down a star. The wine list is very god, but desserts are a bit pricey, so opt in favor of something more traditional than profiteroles or chocolate mousse. Delicious and reasonable with excellent service. A footnote: expensive valet parking ($14 plus tip) comes along with being in the Rush Street area.
(3)Kirsten H.
First time trying a freshwater fish - the walleye. It was amazing!!
(5)Lia V.
Cute! Total french bistro feel - went on a Saturday afternoon with my cousin. It's in a great location to go shopping afterwards. Had a glass of champagne and half a turkey sandwich with french onion soup and homemade chips. The soup had way too much cheese in it, but really... is that so bad? It tasted really good. The turkey sandwich was good too - it had some fig jam on it or something. Cheap lunch. Staff wasn't the best or anything. I don't think our server actually ever introduced himself - maybe he was just having an off day. I'd recommend going if you're in the area.
(3)Terry F.
A good place to stop by for a quick cocktail and a chat. I didn't try the menu, but the diners there all looked satisfied. The bartender wasn't very attentative, but the drink was poured properly.
(3)Megan F.
My first time here was for Sunday brunch. Everyone I was with left saying what a lovely French bistro Bistro Zinc was and it really is. Since then, I have been back several times and have loved it every time. The Vegetable Chickpea and Tomato Stew is a favorite of mine as well as the Mussels. A friendly waitstaff is extremely attentive. The atmosphere is nice - just what you think of for a traditional French bistro - red and yellow color motif. Tables are packed together but it lends to the cozy, warm inviting atmosphere. I highly recommend checking this place out!
(5)Peter D.
Came in late and got a great meal fast. I sat at the bar and I got right to business and it was one of the best if brief times. The bartender was friendly and we chatted for a good while and they all gave me good points of places to try. I got served bread with yummy butter to start and it was very good. I ordered the Steak Frites and it arrived fast which was great since I was starved. I chowed hard and fast and I left a happy camper. I can tell you that this place is on my list to return to again and again. Its right in the middle of a lot of bars and restaurants and there is also great people watching. You can get a great dinner here and then go enjoy an evening of people watching the cougars and the creepy old farts on the prowl. Awesome! I recommend you eat here. Please, if alone sit at the bar. Its the best!
(4)Lori S.
Love BZ. It's our neighborhood favorite. Friendly staff - excellent food - and they don't rush you along. We will be back many many times.
(5)Chris G.
Few regrets... I have few in life -- but admittedly, passing Bistro Zinc up as much as I have over the years until today's lunch certainly counts as one. We love to lunch as early as possible in order to beat the crowds and arrived a few minutes before the scheduled 11:30am opening. Our server was cheery, generous and patient as we had a hard time picking from many of the tantalizing apps and entrees. We settled on escargot and french onion soup to start and my friend chose the salmon gruyère quiche and me, the pan fried trout over a bed of cooked spinach capers and cherry tomatoes as the entree. We rocked the chunky escargot and sopped up all its buttery juices and soup with fresh bread. The quiche was mouthgasmic with it's buttery middles and heads-of-state worthy crust. The pan fried trout tasted just-caught and perfect over a steamed spinach bed with capers and tomatoes. It beamed, white, yet slightly buttery and crispy. We had tears in our eyes and were in need of this culinary fix on a dark, bleak, icy Chicago Monday morning. Just as we approached Bistro Zinc, the sun came out and all was well in our world. We debated over dessert and after mulling a few different options chose chocolate mousse balls and also their almond butter cake with macerated berries. Now I don't know what the hell macerated really means exactly but these berries were very rich tasting... almost marinated in a rich watermelon juice as my friend noted, wonderfully. The cake was reminiscent of my elders cooking old-fashioned tea cakes and was most wonderful and complex.--hot out of the oven. It was a struggle to keep my shoes on and remain seated in my chair in a civil fashion. I was definitely having a moment! The exact blend is a "state secret" but they brought to the table a fresh pot of Intelligensia decaf. Panamanian and Guatemalan beans are in there and it was the best cup(s) of coffee I've had. If that wasn't the kicker, we left with a complimentary $25 gift certificate for dinner. NEW. BIG. FANS. Waistlines be damned. :)
(4)Cliff F.
We stopped in on a Monday around 8pm strictly for a night cap and a little dessert to finish our evening. We were greeted promptly with a smile. I informed the maitre d that this was a simple night cap and dessert stop to curb our sweet tooth. He seated us at a two top in the front of the restaurant to enjoy the street views and take in the cool Chicago summer evening. Our server came over very promptly gave us a dessert and cocktail menu explained the dessert specials the chef had prepared for the day. We opted to share a plate of the profiterole's and two glasses of Bordeaux. The dessert was wonderful and paired with the very average house Bordeaux it was even better. The decor, the ambiance, and the quaint little bistro table overlooking the bustling street made this a delightful ending to a wonderful evening. I will add that a house made vanilla bean Ice cream was served with the profiterole's, which was very good! However I decided to get an order to go with house made creme fraiche and it was so much better...
(4)Michelle P.
Great escargot, cocktails, and risotto. Quaint but vibrant atmosphere. Definitely a great date spot or for a night out with the girls.
(4)Elise P.
This place is so cute. I came in for brunch and the food was delicious. My friend and I split the burger and the french toast. I loved the brunch food, and the place wasn't crowded at all. Even on a Sunday morning. I want to come back for dinner. The French onion soup looked amazing. I'm bummed I didn't try it. But I will definitely be back!
(5)Rachel S.
Went here over the weekend with my boyfriend and his dad. Selected the place based off Yelp reviews and was not disappointed. To start, we had the mussels which were in a tasty cream sauce that was great to dip bread into. For my main, I had the L'onglet Steak, which was cooked perfectly and very tasty. It came with green beans that were crunchy, adding some freshness to the plate, and cauliflower gratin that was cheesy and delicious. Boyfriend had the grandmother's chicken, which was really good, and his dad was also pleased with the meal he ordered. The wine we selected with the help of the knowledgeable wait staff went great with the food, and was reasonably priced. For dessert, we had the profiteroles a la glace. the chocolate sauce was the best part of the dessert, for sure! The atmosphere is cozy, and would be perfect for a date, outing with close friends or family. Would highly recommend!
(5)Benjamin H.
Great people watching spot in Gold Coast. The chips at the bar are great, the bread and butter are yummy (and never ending), the cocktails are also very solid and the wine is reasonably priced. Excellent service with very good food and a low-key (but mature) vibe.
(4)Lindsey O.
How is this place 4/5 stars? I love french food, but maybe I just ordered the wrong thing at Bistrot Zinc. My group sat at the bar and ate the heavily oil drenched, salt-less chips and hard boiled eggs, and I decided to order something before drinking more. I ordered a vegetable crepe with goat cheese. Absolutely nothing to rave about. The veggie crepe tasted exactly like that - the veggies were covered in cooking oil, no garlic or additional flavors (the menu says they add basil, but I couldn't taste it), and a little dollop of goat cheese. Overall, it was unmemorable. The bar tender however was a sweetheart, and I would go back to buy more drinks from her prior to heading out.
(2)Clara C.
My dining companion and I came in here off of the Yelp reviews and were not disappointed. Ambience: Fancy ish, cute little French restaurant. Service: Very professional and quick. Never once had to look around for the server. Food: -Chicken & mushroom Crepe- was perfect, not too creamy and the perfect fluffiness -Veggie Tajine w/ couscous- I loved this dish. The couscous was a good texture and the veggies that came with it accompanied the couscous perfectly. -Chocolate mousse dessert- Heaven on a dish. The mousse was a perfect frothy fluffy texture. Exactly what I imagine clouds in heaven should taste like. The chocolate was very rich, but at the same time not heavy.
(5)Jennie C.
Came here on a Sunday night with a big group of people. Our waiter was very attentive and patiently awaited our indecisiveness and numerous questions. We started with octupus salad and mussels. The salad was nice and refreshing, but the mussels was what blew me away: I'd never seen mussels so plump! On top of that they were also cooked to perfection, bathed in a buttery broth that we couldn't stop dunking bread in. For entrees we had the skate, pork Milanese, trout, beef stew and steak & frites. All of which were perfectly cooked, though one could argue the food is not as aggressively seasoned as most restaurants. It was the perfect amount of seasoning for me, but I have a lighter palate, so some people may find it on the bland side. Bistrot Zinc's downfall was in dessert. Everyone at the table ordered creme brulee, except me, who went with the profiteroles. The brulee was standard fare, the profiteroles were tough, dense, and doused with too much chocolate sauce. I'd stick with their food and go elsewhere for dessert, perhaps a gelato by the fountain?
(3)Lola K P.
Delightful old-school French bistro, very clean and bright-feeling, comfortable. I've come by for brunch with a few girlfriends, and a Bastille day dinner with a group of ten, and both were very lovely. Service was prompt and friendly. The food was quite good. Both times were great, and I would definitely return.
(4)Lori M.
Delightful Our first visit here on Easter. Charming decor and a warm day allowed for open air dining, bringing the feel of Paris even closer. Eggs benedict with smoked salmon quite extraordinary and prepared to perfection. Service was outstanding! We look forward to our next visit!
(5)Connie Y.
Food was really good! I was pleasantly surprised given that my experiences at any French restaurant is typically met with a bit of disappointment. Went there with some friends for brunch and got the french onion soup and lamb sandwich with grilled onion, watercress, and rosemary aioli which were both delicious. It was quite filling as well. The ambiance was nice for a Saturday morning. There were not a whole lot of people which is a nice change from most other brunch places where it can be loud and difficult to hear people at your own table due to all the noise. The overall staff was quite nice. Our server was okay. To be honest, not as great as I would have expected from such an establishment.
(4)Anya C.
Good French toast, good bread, good escargots
(4)Helen Y.
my bf and I went here on a dinner, we didn't put down reservations ahead and it was very easy for us to be seated. After we sat down, a waiter soon came over and offered us the menu, however, he didn't offer to explain the menu or had the courtesy to ask us if we had been here and needed any recommendation. after we ordered, they brought us a small plate of bread without any butter or olive oil, how are you suppose to eat that? my bf needed to go and find a waiter and asked them to bring us olive oil. the food was brought to us very quickly, we ordered an fried eggplant appetizer, steamed mussels and an entree of the liver. the food was good, not amazing though. overall, the food is just OK and the service really sucks.
(3)Evelyn M.
My husband and I had a delightful birthday dinner here. The atmosphere was lovely, it was very French bistro in feel, with an old-fashioned touch, beautiful wood and brass trim, lots of mirrors, walls painted a gently warm cream color, and vintage posters and prints in frames. Food was really delicious, from the French Onion Soup to the trout to the dessert. loved everything. Service was warm and attentive
(5)Megan G.
Went here for Valentine's Day dinner last night. We primarily had the specials, which were all good, but not as French as I would have assumed because we were at a mostly french restaurant. I'd love to go back for the crepes or the mussels (or maybe the croque monsieur)! The wine list is pretty good, and I'm always a sucker for the bread that always seems to keep coming. Plus the waiter only laughed at me a little bit when I asked for a cup of coffee once he came and greeted us (I'm on nights right now, hence the post-Valentine's Day late night post).
(4)Joyce H.
Came here New Years Day for brunch. It's a very cute, bright French cafe that seems to attract a lot of people from the neighborhood. I saw waiters / bartenders behind the counter conversing with people about the daily news. There seemed to be an overall friendly atmosphere. I shared the escargot dipped in butter sauce with friends -- very rich and fresh! I enjoyed that very much. Having just become a pescetarian, I had their roasted vegetable puree soup and the ratatouille crepe. The soup was the right amount of creaminess, and the puree was very tasty. The combination of the soup + crepe turned out to be on the salty side though. That's really my only issue. I tasted the French onion soup -- great flavor and the cheese was special, but let's just say they were very generous with the amount that they topped on the soup.
(3)Kiki W.
The good: The service is great and the atmosphere is charming. The mediocre: Everything was almost right. The food was well-cooked, but under-seasoned and uninspired. They rely too much on butter and cream for flavor, rather than actually seasoning the food properly. Having said that, a little salt here and a little lemon there greatly improved the dishes. But for the price, I rather expect my food to emerge without needing additional help. If you're looking for a place to take your non-foodie Aunt & Uncle from Wisconsin or Iowa after a long day shopping on Michigan Avenue, Bistrot Zinc works fine. If you're looking for a stand-out bistrot meal, take a pass.
(3)Dennis B.
Went here 1/11/13 This was a nice little place. Even though it was french, I wasn't to excited over the menu. For starters I had the escargot which was decent but needed more garlic. Then the anchovy salad to me was a bit bland. It had a anchovy vinaigrette for dressing. I wouldn't recommend anyone getting this unless you're really into anchovies. For the entree I got the roasted chicken which I wasn't that impressed with, especially for the price. All in all the decor was nice, staff was friendly, and the was food mediocre. I went on a Friday night around 6pm and the place was pretty empty. I paid about $40, no drinks. There's a lot of other places in Chicago where I could've gotten the same thing for less than $20, but I guess part of that price is location. Nice experience, but I won't be going back. It is a great place for people watching if you sit by the windows.
(3)James H.
Tasty and hearty selection of dishes. Service was great as well. It boasts a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere without being too snooty (parisian). I will always recommend the escargot, regardless of what else you order. Be kind. Take your time. Tip your waiter. Enjoy.
(4)Susie L.
Food is terrific. The soup de jour always pleases. The quiche lorraine was perfect. The smoked salmon benedict was the perfect portion (not too huge, and just elegant). The servers are very friendly, quick, and knowledgable. When I casually asked about the Restaurant Week menu... they actually printed one on the spot and bound it in a clear menu holder for me to read it. This place is very cozy, classy, romantic, and feels like you're in France for little bit. Excellent!
(5)Jinx T.
Très Magnifique A friend raved about the liver and onions dish here - and raved so much and so frequently - I was prompted to stop in and give it a try. What a magnificent dish! And to do it justice - here's the actual description: Foie de Veau - Sauted calf's liver, smoked bacon, fried onions, crème fraîche mashed potatoes, port sauce. I paired this dish with a Gin Martini - done beautifully - with perfectly noticeable vermouth - served with two beautifully skewered plump green olives. In addition, the room and the service was a delight! Highly Recommended!
(5)Evan S.
Welcome to 2012, my Yelp buddies. This year will be a wonderful one in many ways. I plan to do a great job of staying on top of my reviews this year, and also have some things in store. Stay tuned for a new list that I'll be working on. Now, on to Bistrot Zinc. This quaint little French spot wasn't a premeditated dinner, an elaborate date, or a scheme to impress any old girl. It was simply a random choice for a late dinner after a night out at First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art. We needed food at a good price and BZ was highly rated. So we sat down around 9:30/10 to a relatively empty place with friendly service and class. I ordered a Chardonnay, and Tarra T. kept to the water (she was already feeling a good buzz). The meals: she had the burger, which was very flavorful and on a Hawaiian bun (if I recall correctly). The main drawback: it was heavy on the bleu cheese, which was pretty overpowering. I had the beef short ribs (I mother effin LOVE a short rib!). They were flanked with mashed potatoes and carrots, rightly sized, not too filling but left me very satisfied. We shared the mushroom soup for starters, which was full and flavorful. We were in and out with ease, enjoyed great meals, and found a nice little random walk-in spot in the Viagra Triangle.
(3)Will G.
I don't eat french cuisine often, but I really enjoyed my meal here. We had mussels to start, which came in a very tasty broth. I had the pork and apple stew, which, while it was a little on the heavy side, had good flavor. The other members of the party had the tagine and the pork chop w/ rhubarb; both of which were good, though I preferred the latter.The service was very friendly, unpretentious, patient, and informed, and the waiter picked a nice wine to pair with my dinner. The atmosphere was nice, and intimate, not too crowded and you could have an actual conversation. I would definitely go back..
(4)Scott M.
One of my favorite spots in the city. I go back every visit. The French onion soup is one of the best ever, bar none! Always pleasant staff and the french bistro décor is perfect for relaxing and catching up with good friends!
(5)Morgan S.
Great French food in a relaxed setting. We shared the mushroom and chicken crepe to start as it was listed under small plates. It was amazing, but HUGE. We took 1/2 of it to-go. Next courses were the goat cheese salad and the salmon with lentils (special). Both were great. Creme brulee for dessert. Our server was incredibly helpful, especially with wine selections.
(4)Paridhi N.
On a fine Sunday morning, husband and I went for brunch .. And needless to say, the food was fresh and delicious. I had mushroom and leek quiche and husband had fruit and yogurt crepe. I am glad we live couple of blocks away from this restaurant. Looking forward to make frequent visits. Excellent ambience. Laid back. Good music. Good service.
(4)Gail B.
Great French food for a great price! Pleasant experience. Even the small plates were plenty to eat. The food is reasonably priced but the wine is all on the high side. It would be nice if they had some other affordable wines.
(4)R C.
Bistro Zinc is a fantastic place to get lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is great, and the staff is wonderful. The prices are comparable to other Chicago restaurants. HIghly recommend!
(5)Stephanie W.
I came here with a friend, very excited by the outside decor and expecting to be blown away. For the most part, the food was very "meh". I had steak frites and wasn't particularly impressed with the steak or the frites. The service was great but the food was a bit of a disappointment.
(3)Janine A.
Unfortunately, I have to give Bistro Zinc 2 stars due to the extremely poor service. The food was decent and the waiter started off great but it all went steeply down hill. He was a self proclaimed ninja due to the way he snuck in to refill water and coffee at first. He clearly has difficulties managing more than one table. We felt completely neglected and our time there was unnecessarily prolonged. We felt as if he was blatantly ignoring us. Will not be back here for a looong time.
(2)Dallas F.
A quiet French restaurant seemed like the perfect place to escape the Gold Coast frenzy during Cinco De Mayo and that's how I wound up at Bistrot Zinc. Initially, we were just looking for a place to have dessert, but upon seeing the menu we just had to order more food. I ordered the Onion soup which was divine. I often find when I order French Onion soup its either too salty and straight from the Campbell's can and drowned in cheese to cover the taste, but that was not the case here. The soup was a perfect balance of saltiness and a hint of sweetness from what I assumed was sweet onions. The gruyere cheese baked on top didn't overpower the soup and it was just all around lovely. I also sampled a few of their mussels steamed with white wine. I love mussels and these were great! When it was finally time to order dessert, the reason for going to Bistro Zinc, I ordered the almond butter cake with macerated berries. I almost started this review by raving about how amazing the cake was. The berries were a nice touch and all, but the cake itself, I almost have no words! So rich and flavorful without being too heavy. Simply splendid. Everything about my dining experience here was great. The service was friendly, prompt and detailed. I can't wait to return to try the Poulet Grand-mere!
(4)Chloe Z.
Such a cozy bistro for legit French food! The waiters are super nice. they seat you, bring you water/ bread just in time,and are SUPER knowledgeable about the wines. our waiters for the night is a French and you can tell he has a passion for the food he is serving i got the sauteed calf liver paired with mashed potato, fried onions, and red wine sauce. It was the perfect match with the perfect paring of textures. I got a dessert wine which is also fantastic! will def come back more often Update- I asked , via e-mail, the owner about the wine I had last night. he was so friendly and he went out of his way to help me figure out! definitely a plus!
(5)Amy S.
This is a really cute Paris-feeling bistrot. The dishes are hearty and make you feel like you are in some place outside of the gold coast. My favorite item is here is the stew; it is rich in seasoning and the bread is fresh. It's just a nice little gem that doesn't attract the typical tourists (as Mortons/Gibsons/Tavern on Rush do).
(4)Nicole C.
I've been a long-time fan of Bistrot Margot on Wells, so I felt like I was "cheating" on my French bistrot when I had lunch at Zinc today. But, I'm so glad I did. I had the soup and sandwich lunch special (see photo). The truffled egg salad sandwich was good -- although heavy on the butter lettuce, light on the egg salad and I didn't taste the truffle. The onion soup was DELISH! It is served in an over sized ramekin (I did miss the mini cast iron dishes at Margot). Thick, dark, full of flavor and topped with a heavy hand of gruyere cheese. Yum! And, they have really good coffee. :)
(4)Michael D.
WE ALWAYS visit Bistrot Zinc when visiting Chicago..a bit of France in the windy city. Try the roasted chicken!! And the people are great!!!
(5)Chris G.
Great food, great service, great atmosphere. We had the sandwich soup combination for lunch. The onion soup was quite a bit of food for me and I didn't care for so much cheese. I really liked my egg salad sandwich. The service was amazing. We went back for dinner. I had the trout and my wife had the lamb. We loved them both! I had the crepes for desert and was not disappointed.
(5)Melissa B.
We decided to try this out for Restaurant Week this year. It wasn't my favorite, but overall I liked it. I think I was just a little uncomfortable at the table we were given, which started me off on the wrong foot. Our table of four had the onion soup, pate and goat cheese for our starters. I think we all agreed that the goat cheese was the winner. The pate wasn't bad, but I'm not really a fan. The onion soup was a little heavy on the cheese, and I love cheese! I can't speak for the other girls entrees. I was stuffed by that point and didn't share. I had the Steak frites. Other than the fact it was cooked medium well as opposed to medium it was delicious. Desserts were all wonderful! I loved my almond cake. Wine list was nice and very reasonable as well. Service was nice. Completely honest though...I've had better service. If the service were a little more friendly I'd return a lot faster.
(4)Andrew N.
Great atmosphere for the girlfriend's birthday! Of all the restaurants in the area this one was the most reasonable and the food was delicious. I had the steak, and it was great. We will be back!
(4)Nate H.
In my 4 day visit to Chicago, I went to Zinc twice! I love this place! I have never sat at a table, because the bar is so beautiful and the bartenders are wonderful. First, you are welcomed by thick crunchy waffle cut potato chips continually made in the kitchen and delivered in front of you in nice long wicker baskets. Treat yourself to one of the hard boiled eggs while you sip a cocktail and read the menu. Traditional bistro fare here, so whenever at a French bistro, I try the liver and onions. Usually comes with a red wine reduction sauce and mashed potatoes. This one did not disappoint! I would have appreciated a thinner slice of liver, but this is Chicago, and everything is served larger, so I adapted. I quickly learned to trust my bartender, Jason, so I just told him to bring me a great glass of red - he delivered perfectly. My dessert of was accompanied by a surprise from Jason - a Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur that just sent me over the edge of a great evening out. Some day I might actually get a table...well, maybe not.
(5)Evan Thoreau H.
Ooh la la. C'est la vie. Uh-huh-ha. We were out the other night looking for a taste of classic French bistro cuisine and saw some good things about Zinc. Now, the inner Camus in me is struggling between three and four stars for a variety of reasons. I think another visit might clear that up, but with so many great bistros to choose from, dare I come back? Ah, the never-ending struggle yet again. So let's just get down to the Bons and Mals. Bon: -Atmosphere: by far the best part about the place. From the second you step up to the front door, you feel like you're entering a comfortable old bistro next to the river Seine. Inside it only gets better, with dim lighting, classic Parisian art and design, tucked away booths and spartan tables. You just feel like you're back in Paris. Loved it. -Bar/Wine: I like how the wine list was non-pretentious. Just good pours (many by the glass) of tasty, yet affordable French wines. The bar itself is obviously the centerpiece of the restaurant, as it's a classic Zinc topped bar (Bistrot Zinc, get it?). Bartender was polite and friendly and I thought the little tree of hardboiled eggs at the bar gave it an eggs-ceptionally authentic feel (that pun can go in the 'mal' category). Mal: -Price: Now, everything is relative, so don't get me wrong here. I don't think the prices are outrageous - especially for French dining - but they are a tad pricey for what you get. Bistro food is supposed to be simple, tasty and (again, relatively) cheap. It's what the French eat when they don't want to make a extravaganza of a meal. What you quickly realize is that you're paying a premium for the ambiance and the Old Town location, so I get that. I just wish it was a little more out of the way and a couple bucks cheaper for what you get... Comme si, comme ca: -The food: Again, think RELATIVE here. I think overall, the food is exactly what I was expecting: savory, quality bistro grub that warms the soul but doesn't have to be a show stopper. The estargot was excellent, huge snails and piping hot. I had the classic steak frites - steak was very thin, but cooked well, frites could have been a little more flavorful. My friend had the stew of the day, which was a beer and beef stew, which was very tasty. Finished with a chocolate mousse that was a nice light touch to the end of a meal. So why just so-so? Again, it was just tasty, standard bistro fare for a slightly inflated price. Overall, Bistrot Zinc certainly tickled my francophile taste buds and is a great place for a leisurely, classic French meal, but just be forewarned that you're mostly paying for the location.
(3)j b.
What a lovely place. Made me want to go to France. Crepe ratatouille awesome. Bartender Lisa awesome. Pleasant, helpful, professional, sharing. Must try the locally made liquors from Koval: rose hips, jasmine, ginger.
(5)Kristen S.
A friend and I decided to try our Bistrot ZInc for a Sunday brunch date. Everything was exceptional. The service, food and drink! I love the decor of the place. It truly is very "french". Our server was very quick to offer suggestions of their wine list and menu. I myself chose to order off of their brunch menu and had the Brioche French Toast. Holy heavens. AMAZING. I paired that with a glass of white wine and I was in brunch heaven. My friend ordered the Truffled Egg Salad sandwich and she couldnt complain. Will defintely be returning to this establishment! Its the perfect brunch spot. They also offer valet.
(5)Reed N.
You know... I see two ridiculous reviews of this place below that are negative. Complaints about kitschy decor... not true. Comments about what patrons think... like they read minds or something. Complaints about portion size... not true. Complaints about prices... not true. Complaints about vinegar, but not asking the server to fix it... not fair. Complaints about a server not taking a picture. Uh... SERVER, not photographer. They have other work to do sparky. So let me give you a REAL review. I have been to France 7 times. Yes. Seven. For a total of about 70 days. I know French food quite well. So... We were seated at a gloriously fortunate table all the way against the back wall away from the noise of the center of the place. It was a busy Saturday night. Our server was an enthusiastic gentlemen who was honestly working his ass off. He helped us narrow our choice of food down to: Burger with blue cheese and fries. The frite were brown to perfection and the burger was a lean patty cooked to medium rare state... but still warm throughout and not bloody. Just as tender and delicious as you will find. Not a huge patty, but just fine. My girl and I do not do buns, so no comment there. Cassoulet was a looser than a traditional version... a little more liquid is what I mean. Served on a plate in a large portion. Traditional servings are a bit smaller in a crock with breadcrumbs on top. The beans and sauce were slightly smoky and were excellent. The duck quarter was excellent as well. The sausage was odd, but still positive and flavorful meat. Call it uniquely spiced. The lamb... good GOD the lamb. I have eaten dozens of pounds of lamb. The lamb chunks were the absolute best lamb I have ever eaten in my 43 years... Ever. Tender. Flavorful. Just perfect. The side item was brussel sprouts with bacon and prunes. The french use prunes [pruneau] to offset earthy dishs like potatoes and, well brussel sprouts... and with with proteins like pork and chicken. The sweetness is just wonderful with these items. Anyway, the salty bacon, sweet prunes and earthy sprouts combine to create a trio of fun on your pallet. Really, for a bistro, we received more than we expected in flavor and value. This is a great little place in a great location. You could get fancier... but that does not make the food better. Food is what I am rating, and this place is 5-star.
(5)Bob W.
Bistro Zinc is right next to our place and is about the only restaurant in the area serving things that require more words to describe than "edible". In fact every time I come here I am pleasantly surprised, which is a nice feeling I am probably ruining by writing this review. I haven't had anything less than good here and the starter bread and butter is excellent and this from someone normally who doesn't do the buttered carbs thing. Their mashed potatoes are easily some of the best anywhere. I can personally vouch for the tastiness of the Poulet Grand Mère, the cassoulet that is usually a special and the Vol-au-Vent (which comes with said mashed potatoes). The chicken crepe is also quite good and my wife says the ratatouille is excellent as well. Desserts are probably delicious but always so bog standard looking that we never order any. Also we are usually full with the quite large portions that actually somewhat justify the prices. Finally, I can't recall any place that serves such distinctly and authentically french bourgeoise. The uniqueness along with the quality make this the best restaurant in the area, though Tanta may usurp it.
(4)Frances H.
My husband and I went here for weekend brunch. We were lucky enough to find parking right away, which we realized on our way there may be an ordeal considering the location of the restaurant (poor planning on our part and just dumb luck). The restaurant is cute, standard french style cafe (similar to those in Paris, but way bigger and more spacious). It was a gorgeous day so we had sat by the windows which were open. Apparently this was also the couple zone as every table was occupied by a couple (except for the ladies next to us). For our meal, we had the following: French onion soup - Definitely cheesy, very sweet onion flavor. However a bit salty to my taste, and was served warm (almost room temp), as opposed to piping hot. I am a fan of piping hot soup, so was not loving this...but my husband, who prefers lukewarm food, loved it. Lamb sandwich - Simple lamb flavor, highlighted by onions and the creamy spread. Perfect for those lamb purists. I loved the waffle chips that came with the sandwich, which I devoured not very stealthily from my husband's plate. Pan-fried trout - This was perfectly cooked in butter. It even turned my husband around, who up to that point did not see trout as a viable food option. However, I thought the fish was lacking a bit of salt, which was easily remedied (as I was seasoning my eggs). The one low point of the dish were the potatoes, which I think were supposed to be roasted, but I couldn't tell as they were drowning in olive oil/butter? I love potatoes, I love butter...but even I couldn't really enjoy the soggy potatoes. Overall, superb experience in dining. The food came out extremely quickly, which was much appreciated as I was starving. Will definitely go back to check out the crepes.
(4)Keerthi A.
Went on a weekday night with a girlfriend and it was the perfect place to eat. The place was relatively quiet and we had decent attention from our waiter, he seemed a bit frazzled though. We both ordered the crepes, I got the ratatouille and my friend ordered the Chicken, which was good apparently. My ratatouille crepe was really good, well presented. The portion was quite a bit, so took some home. We had a glass of wine, and it was just the perfect neighborhood joint with a relaxed atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
(3)Blonde H.
Bistro Zinc is one of my favorite French Bistro in Chicago. On a minus temps Tuesday night, I choose this spot to take a client after attending a luxe business affair where we had Hors d'oeuvre. We decided sitting at the bar would suit our light fare requests. My business guest, ordered soup and a glass of wine. I ordered escargot with a glass of wine. The bartender was a women with a bad attitude, who gave us lip on our wine questions. When my escargot came, delicious as always I will positively add, I asked for a plate of bread, as it was not proper to be sharing my business guest bread plate. The bar tender "clicked her tongue like a hen." And got the bread, like she was doing me a favor. I practice being nice to wait staff and bartenders. Chicago neighborhoods are intimate and small. We repeat our visits here. Bistro, you lost me as a loyal patron. When we walked out the door, my client expressed her dislike of the bartender. This none the less did not pan out to be the dining experience I had planned on, and it cost me business.
(2)Irina H.
5 stars for the waiters and the owner, who care very much about whether their customers are enjoying their food or not. My mother didn't touch her soup (since she had a stroke, we can only guess at what she wants to eat), and the staff noticed and were very concerned that she get something to her liking. We greatly enjoyed the mussels appetizer, as well as our brunch menu sandwiches and crepes, and we shared an order of profiteroles for dessert. I though the restaurant had a lovely, sunny atmosphere. You do get the "Viagra Triangle" crowd around here, so it's not really my kind of scene, but would recommend it nonetheless.
(5)Kwoky L.
When I was learning French at the Alliance Francaise, we got a gift certificate of $25 for Bistrot Zinc which was why we came for dinner about a year or two ago. I got to admit, I like French food but I don't love it. I figured I should at least give it a try. Bistro food is very predictable. There's escargot, steak frites, ratatouile, poulet roti, quiche, you get the gist. It's really how well they prepared it. My trout meuniere was cooked quite well. In fact, it was my first fish a la meuniere and enjoyed it that I tried making it at home the next evening. Overall, it was a good dinner in a very French setting but nothing spectacular. The decor did remind me of Paris though. Definitely a place to check out if you're in the neighbourhood.
(3)Tenzo D.
Solid choice that never disappoints. OK, it disappoints just a little. Like someone said, they need to add duck. And some steak tartar. ohhhh and bulubaise. But seriously. Its the best french cafe we have found in the gold cost / old town area. Consistent and good waiter. Brought my French mother in law once and she was pleased. Now if they would only let dogs in......
(4)Polly S.
Decided to try Bistrot Zinc out for brunch namely because they take reservations, whereas, other brunch places do not. The french decor was nice - all reds and mustard yellow. Best seats in the house are definitely by the windows so I would suggest specifically requesting that area. Service was helpful and friendly. The brunch menu left something to be desired. A bit uninspired. Ordered a crepe with mushroom, spinach, and goat cheese. Decent, but nothing special. Boyfriend ordered nicoise salad - again, decent, but nothing special. The mimosa was refreshing and tasty but at $9, too expensive to order a second. Lesson learned? To avoid a wait, I got something decent, but nothing special here. Next time I'll be more patient - a good brunch spot is worth the wait!
(3)Ryan C.
I went with friends during Restaurant Week and opted for the prix fixe. C'est si bon! The french onion soup was delicious, although mine came with almost too much cheese. It was easy enough to avoid, though. And I'm guessing I just offended the entire state of WI. I enjoyed the grilled salmon as well, and I don't eat fish frequently. It paired well with the bottle of Sauv Blanc we ordered. The pot de creme was, in a word, amazeballs. You are a fool not to order it.
(4)Christina M.
I love their french onion soup! I can't take it!! so delicous and their Royal is my favorite burger in the gold coast!
(4)Gerardo R.
Visiting Chicago for a couple of days, went to Bistrot Zinc because of our concierge. The food was really well prepared and tasted like authentic french. The service was good. The atmosphere was more of the older crowd who demands true french cuisine and not so much a happening scene. Liked the fact that the menu features monthly chef seasonal specials. Good french wine list. Do recommend it.
(3)Dory O.
We went to Bistrot Zinc for a midday lunch. It was fantastic. We both had the french onion soup and it was cheesy and fab. I also had the chicken and mushroom crepe and it was out of this world. I will definitely go back.
(5)Mahsa T.
Nestled among the shops, restaurants, and hubbub of the State/Rush Street area is a little French oasis that will make you forget you're in the middle of Chicago. Bistro Zinc is casual, inviting, and classy. I enjoyed a very serene Saturday brunch here with my friend. It was very peaceful and quiet--just the light chatter of our neighboring tables. We had a nice table by the window and service was prompt and professional. Food was excellent. I ordered the eggs Benedict which came with poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and Hollandaise sauce on two English muffins. My only complaint is that the whites of my eggs were a little bit runny, but it was not a big deal. My friend had the spinach and mushroom omelette, which she liked. They have great coffee too. I highly recommend this laid-back, charming place for a delicious meal.
(4)Jim W.
The duck was perfectly matched with the tarragon roasted peach. What a surprise.
(5)Uyen T.
My friend and I came here for brunch. We didn't have any expectation so it was such a nice surprise that everything we ordered were delicious. We had the pâté ~ mhmm one of the best pâté I've ever had.. really rich and creamy but doesn't smell like duck at all. Then we had the escargot.. turned out, all of the reviews were right. This is a must-try item when you are here.. YUMMY! Also, their mussels and onion soup are amazing too :) Would definitely come back for more!
(4)Imelda M.
Intimate, cozy & super clean. As French as one can find in Chicago. Service excellent 'specially Matt. Never had to wait for refills etc. Has an excellent menu. Portions are very good. Not over the top. The quiche tu jour & salad, excellent lunch choice. Would definitely recommend and dine here again. Price $$ for lunch $$$ for dinner. Worth a trip.
(4)Fe T.
Checked in here the other day for lunch. I ordered what most yelpers recommended - the lamb sandwich. It's amazing. The waffle fries are tasty and the service is good too. People here are very friendly. They play great music. I will definitely come back here if I want to take a friend out for lunch. The price is reasonable. This is a must-check-out place!
(5)Lee K.
Worthy of 4 1/2 stars. This is one of the best French restaurants we've dined at. Our family of four agreed it served us the best French onion soup and mussels in light cream sauce. We really liked all of our entrees including baked fish and roast chicken. Excellent ambiance and service. I would have given it a solid 5 stars if the menu was more varied and included some creative dishes.
(4)Paddy R.
Every time I visit Chicago, I make a lunch or brunch date at Bistrot Zinc. The food is delicious, authentic and fairly priced. The atmosphere is comfortable, like a great Paris bistrot. On my most recent visit, I made a mistake and ordered the wrong salad. The owner, without me asking but overhearing my conversation with the server, promptly took the dish away and made me the salad I anticipated. The server apologized for delay in bringing the dish, even though it was my fault that a new one was being prepared. The exceptional customer service went beyond what would be expected at any restaurant. On leaving, we asked the owner about other dining spots in Chicago and she was generous with suggestions. My second trip to Bistrot Zinc was due to having one of the best burgers I had ever had, regardless of type of restaurant. Subsequent visits were due to the combination of good food, great atmosphere and attentive service. From this point on, trips to Bistrot Zinc will be due to how special the staff made me and my friends feel when having lunch there.
(5)Nick W.
Not too fancy, just right.
(4)Patrick B.
This is the best kept secret in Old Town. What a great place to have lunch or dinner. The food is excellent. The waiters are friendly and the atmosphere is wonderful. Loved it!!!
(5)Amanda C.
Went here for dinner with a group during restaurant week. French food is one of my favorite cuisines and Bistrot Zinc does not disappoint. They start you off with bread/butter and the butter is seriously SO good. The baguttes are flaky on the outside and soft on the inside. The wine list is extensive with most of the wines coming from France which is cool. I think there were only 2 American options out of 30+. For an appetizer I had the goat cheese souffle and steak frites for the entree. I also tried the salmon and for dessert we had almond cake and chocolate mousse. Everything was so delicious. One of the best things about our experience here was that even though it was crowded and restaurant week, we never felt rushed and really enjoyed our 2+ hour dinner. The atmosphere is just really relaxed. Our server was patient and attentive and I wish I could remember his name!
(5)Janet E.
Came here for a return visit and it didnt disappoint. Service was spot on. Our waiter seemed genuinely interested in serving us. It was about 2pm on a Saturday and there were about 12 other tables seated! Who eats that late? Oh wait, I do. This is one of the ONLY French restaurants that we could find that opened between 2-5pm. All other establishments were closed until dinner. Thank goodness Bistro Zinc chooses not to follow the others! We tried the potato soup, the lamb sandwich, and the poached eggs over smoked salmon. For dessert we tried the creme brulee. Everything was delicious!! The lamb was surprisingly tender and the aftertaste was almost undetectable! Yummie! Prices were reasonable here and the dining atmosphere was very nice. If french food weren't so buttery I'd be here more often!
(4)S G.
Ok. It's always hit or miss on vacation. The pressure is on to make a good choice because time is limited. The family ordered pear and goat cheese salad to share along with onion soup and a bottle of Medoc. A mystery order of escargot appeared, but we didn't mind and they were great! I had the steak frite, my daughter ordered crepe with chicken and mushroom, my husband ordered stew in puff pastry. Honestly this restaurant was more French than American. There was no pressure to vacate the place in short order. As a matter of fact we were invited to take our time between courses. The entrees were yummy. The steak was just steak but perfectly cooked. The stew in puff pastry was masterfully seasoned as was the crepe, which ended up being the hit of the night. Delicately cooked and well put together is the French way. Cafe Zinc did not disappoint. I haven't yet mentioned the service which was amazing. Friendly and accommodating with an atmosphere which allowed the family to talk to one another and relax. We ordered dessert because we didn't really want to leave when the meal was over. Warmed Almond Cake with fruit compote and espresso pot De creme. Ok we were really too full to eat it but we just couldn't help ourselves. The moral of the story is....GO TO CAFE ZINC.
(4)Melanie S.
There have been a few occasions in my life when I've cried at a restaurant's closing. (Magic Pan, Hamburger Hamlet...sigh) I used to dine quite often at the BZ on Southport but was relieved that the one on State was still open. I love French food, but not the "pinkies up" kind of French food served at places like Les Nomades and Everest. It's just not my thing, as I prefer bistro-style French cooking. Ironically, I love the mushroom risotto served at BZ. Yes, it's not a dish that you'll typically find on a menu at a French restaurant, but they do it perfectly. Other standouts are the onion soup, (which is pretty much just an excuse to eat gobs of cheese), the steak frites, the coq au vin, and be sure to finish with the crêpe au chocolat. It's a chocoholic's wet dream. I'll still mourn the loss of the BZ on Southport, but I'll gladly brave the Viagra Triangle for BZ's très délicieux nourriture!
(4)Miriam B.
I was looking forward to dining at this restaurant because I'm such a francophile. This was an overall dissapointing expieriance. I ordered the steal au poivre which I ordered medium well, It came out beyond well done and resembled shoe leather. My salad and dessert we good though. The champagne I ordered was flat though. Very nice service but if I want good French food I'll go to cite.
(2)Shin M.
I got some vegetable cous cous dish which was really good but not filling at all. The server was really nice to my friends and me up until we asked him if he could split the bill 3 ways. He got very very upset and said this was going to take a while. He came back with the bill with hand written calculations all over it and just threw it on our table. Needless to say, he did not earn the 20% we were all initially going to give him...
(3)Evan M.
Fairly average food and rude and pretentious staff. Steak frites was tough and tasteless. Place lacks any atmosphere. I would have given no stars if it was an option. Don't go unless you are 70+ years old
(1)Penni P.
I met a friend for lunch that had recently moved from San Diego to Chicago...did I happen to mention it was only 16 degrees? Now for the review. The place is very charming and the staff is super nice and VERY accommodating. We had an infant with us and they were very helpful. We had the escargot...delish, especially dipping the bread in the butter. The Caesar was very good, lots of anchovy flavor...yummmm. My friend got the onion suop...super cheesy and she loved it. We also ordered the Salmon dill crepe...if you love creme fraishe you will love this. It had a lot of Salmon and too much creme for my personal taste. I also ordered the creme brulee. One of the best ones yet. Just a little light lunch for the girls =)
(4)H W.
The laid back authentic atmosphere is great. Lisa the bartender, rocks this experience, and the waiter was superb. The food so good, and prepared perfectly. Definitely will be returning.
(5)Stothe H.
Lousy experience here. Food was good but we made the mistake of sitting at the bar and for whatever reason, the bartender - Lisa - a woman with very short brown hair, decided that she hated us but loved everyone else who we assumed must be regulars. The people sitting next to us said, "Oh Lisa is a mixologist, ask her to make you something special!", so when we asked for her suggestion on a drink using tequila and orange she said, "Ugh, I don't know, I hate tequila so I don't make those drinks". Umm, okay. The mood was chilly throughout and finally just turned cold to the point where we knew we were not welcome. It's a shame because the food was good and we all like French cuisine but no food is worth feeling like you're an unwelcome sack if merde. I actually called the restaurant because we wanted to go back and try it again this weekend so I asked if she was working - when I realized I was talking to a manager (he identified himself as a co-owner) I told him I was asking if Lisa was working because she was so rude to us and we didn't want to come back if she would be there. He said, "yes, she's working on Friday", to which I replied, "Well I guess we won't come in because she was very clear that she hated us" and he said, "OK"... Well screw you dude. I'll take my cash elsewhere! Businesses aren't run the way they used to be and a place like that shouldn't be proud of a mean bartender. Lisa, who hurt you!?!? To Maison we go!
(1)Kit A.
This was the perfect place to kick off Chicago Restaurant Week. I've never really been to a French restaurant before and I have to say I was impressed. I started off with the Twice-Baked Goat Cheese Soufflé with Sun Dried Tomato Tapenade. The souffle was delicious, but the sun dried tomato was a little too tart. I got to try the french onion soup too, but it seemed too wine-y tasting for my liking and didn't have enough onions. For the entree I was really looking forward to the grilled salmon but they were completely out. Instead I tried the Coq au Vin with Buttered Egg Noodles and fell in love! There were 2 giant chicken breasts that had been marinated in red wine over a bed of shallots, bacon and pasta. It was absolutely delicious. I let my mom try my leftovers the next day and she loved it as well. For desert I had the Chocolate Mousse. It was so overly rich I was wishing I had some milk. I recommend the Coffee Pot de Crème instead. That was way more delicious, creamy and just the right amount of sweetness. I would like to come back to this place (if I can afford it), although the menu did not seem to have a wide selection of choices. Good place for desert if nothing more!!!
(3)Helen C.
Everything about this place was beautiful. The windows open onto the street, the layout, the floor, the plate of fruit (a suggestion made by the waiter, which actually is the best thing a waiter has ever suggested, because every brunch needs fruit), the waiters themselves, and finally, the food. Brioche french toast with vanilla mascarpone hit the spot. The poached eggs were perfectly cooked, and the hollandaise was light and tasty, not the buttery mass you sometimes get. Fresh spinach, fresh smoked salmon, etc. etc. A true quality-not-quantity breakfast worth every penny (it's slightly more expensive than our original destination, the pancake house). Rubbish coffee but that's to be expected. If the dinners are as well executed as the breakfast, it's worth an evening visit. This seems to be genuine french fare cooked really well and served in an authentic bistro-y atmosphere.
(5)Aashish J.
Who can say no to fogra? This place is so goooood...quails and lentils, snails dipped in garlic/butter and fogra; yes fogra for appetizer...grilled salmon on spinach and mushroom for entree...creme brule for dessert! What else can one ask for? A little heavy on the wallet but you gotta do that once in a while :D Thumbs up: 1. Food: delicious 2. Ambiance: not too loud; good for dates or for a small group 3. Service: nice, courteous servers Thumbs down: 1. Price: $$$!
(4)Katie V.
Bumping them up a star....I think they deserve it. The food is consistently good and it's a great lunch spot whether you're alone or with friends. The soup + 1/2 sandwich deal is excellent. The french onion soup is so cheesy and delicious -- for a dollar upcharge, you can get it instead of the soup du jour with the sandwich combo. Brunch is great there, too -- lots of traditional options and also some lighter fare if you're trying to not spend the rest of your day in a food coma. Lovely space, attentive service -- a definite gem in the neighborhood.
(4)Michael M.
Worst bistro in Chicago Bad service food. Attitude. And expensive for quality
(1)Sfg S.
We went on a crowded Friday night and were greeted by a cheery hostess who was able to sit us down right away. The waiter came right over with menus, took a drink order and returned in very reasonable time. Both dinners came out hot and were cooked to order. Can't wait to return to Chicago where we will put Bistrot Zinc on our must visit again.
(4)John R.
Loved the food. Not cheap, but tastes great.
(4)Ali B.
Bonjour, j'adore ESCARGOT, wee! Bistro Zinc is the kind of place that you would see in a movie. There is no glitz & glam but a traditional French approach-a neighborhood restaurant people have been going for years (w/good clientele). It is warm, welcoming and always busy. We sat in the back feasting on Escargot while sipping wine. (Escargot BZ: French snails, herb garlic butter, Pernod, pesto crumbs). The Escargot was fantastic and served in very French style! I would definitely go back and see what else this restaurant has to offer. Good for a meeting, 3rd date or later and to catch up with a girlfriend.
(3)michael b.
Great food, service, and a comfortable welcoming atmosphere, this place is a new favorite. Very reasonable and a true local gem... see you there!
(5)A H.
This place is a treat for a sunny Sunday brunch. It's so adorable inside, and I almost felt like I was in France. If only! The place is bright, and there's plenty of things to admire and notice on the walls. The food was terrific, and I highly recommend the brioche french toast with the vanilla mascarpone cream topping. Yum! I also spied some delicious looking crepes at the table next to us. I want to go back and try one of those and the Croque Monsieur. Bonus: they take reservations for brunch!
(4)R T.
Cheerful place with a casual atmosphere and the usual super tiny tables (Sometimes, I think downtown Chicago must be peopled by Lilliputians). I wasn't too happy with the faux French maitre de, with the snooty beret and matching attitude, who seated us right next to the front door on the chilliest day. I think she took the stereotype literally. The menu's not extensive, Classic fare- crepes and the like. Brunch prices were reasonable. My friend really enjoyed her lamb stew vol au vent dish. I might go back to try it.
(3)Colleen C.
I've held out on writing this review...as it made me sad to think about. Yes, sad. Why? Because when I dined here on a lovely Friday, the sun was shining, the birds were chirpin'...and it was....WARM. So, after this day all went to hell, the weather froze over...it rained for a week, it snowed. It hailed. It all went straight to shit, and I couldn't even bare to recollect the BZ experience without dropping tears into my cold coffee. Depressing! However, today...as the temps strive for...60! I am able. Spring is upon us, for good. YAY! I was invited to dine with the illustrious Dennis S for a leisurely Friday lunch...Paige W and Tara M also joined me. Having a rather mild aversion to the Viagra Triangle, this chic stop wasn't even on my radar, but now...it's my benchmark for French cuisine in Chicago, that won't drive you straight to the poorhouse. Dennis is a champion of French dining, and so I must say some of the experience is attributed to his knowledge, stories of Paris, and the like. However, the service was impeccable (thank you, Nick), and the vibe was comfort, all around. I speak only for my own dishes...as I was so enamored with them, I barely had a chance to peek at the others'. My brie and apple sandwich on brioche was absolutely drool-worthy, as was the french onion soup and hand cut chips. The pate and cheese plate to start was a decadent tease, as were the biscuits drowning happily in cheese...mmmmm, so delightful. Dessert? Why a chocolate crepe of course...do you expect anything else? Despite my best efforts to resist the wine...I could not, and managed to sip my way into a very pleasant, French-fueled buzz...making the rest of Friday afternoon very unproductive. :) For more adequate and well-put reviews, please see also: Dennis S and Tara M. They apparently pay way better attention under the influence than I do. ;)
(5)Emily B.
My advice on this one is to go full-out French. I was there for lunch and thought just a salad would do. So I got it, but then I started to marvel at all the traditional French delicacies that were coming out to other tables including the French onion soup, the quiche, the steak & frites, etc. Don't skimp on this one. Just get what you came to the "French place" for and you'll have no regrets. Plus the atmosphere is nothing short of highly adorable.
(4)Dennis S.
The perfect place for a long French lunch on a pleasant Friday afternoon. Tara M's review on 3/6/09 does a great job of describing our long Friday lunch at Bistrot Zinc. Bistrot Zinc is one of the few French bistros on the north side that stays open all afternoon, so we didn't need to worry about any "our kitchen is closing now" nonsense. We started late and stayed late. Tara didn't cover the specifics of our wines. We started with kirs - white wine (preferably a white Burgundy) and crème de cassis. Then we went through a few bottles of a nice Pouilly Fume. After coffees and dessert, we ended with Muscat Beaumes de Venise. Beaumes de Venise is a great finishing drink, an apple/honey tasting fortified wine. My main course was again their trout, which was cooked perfect and as tasty as can be. Sharing desserts made for a taste treat, although we each managed to finish our own when our plates got back to us. The afternoon was relaxing, with continual good service even though we lingered for over three hours. It was a perfect "who cares what else is happening in the world" French lunch on a warm Friday afternoon. Bistrot Zinc did a great job of providing everything we needed to make this happen.
(4)Paloma M.
Beautiful place, nicely decorated, staff was very attentive and the food was amazing! I had a goat cheese salad with nuts and an almond butter cake for dessert. Just perfect!
(4)Iris W.
I absolutely love this place! I've been here twice and have ordered the same thing both times. Lamb Sandwich. Get it. It's served with these super flavorful, grilled red onions in the sandwich and with crispy waffle chips on the side. YUM. The atmosphere is great, people there are nice, service is great and efficient. You need to go, especially if you love lamb! I went with a friend and she loved their truffle chicken salad sandwich and french onion soup. Everything seems great on the menu-- I'm going to have to try something new next time.
(5)Teresa M.
What a great find this was! Loved walking around the neighborhood in the Gold Coast area and since we were staying at the Hotel Indigo, this place was just around the corner. Our waiter was fantastic, and although he said he had only been working there 3 months, he knew his way around the menu, the wine list, etc like a pro. I had the bouillabase, which was excellent and finished with the creme brulee. Perfect! Like a little bit of Paris in Chicago.
(5)Natalie G.
Thank goodness! I have amazing friends who are hilarious and entertaining, because if my experience was based on the food itself, it was simply ok. I found this place on yelp, and should have followed Annie Y's review, because it was really very mediocre. I love brunch, but I hate brunch lines... So, when I came across this place that took reservations, this was a go for me and my gals! 10:30 am: The magical hour of Sunday brunch. Anything past that window of time, all you get is lines and crowds and lines. We got here, and it was us and the senior citizens = perfection. We were seated at a lovely table near the window, and brunch commenced. The menu was french with classic brunch dishes of eggs benedict, crepes, and run of the mill kinda stuff. The menu was not entirely expansive, but decent sandwiches and salads too. - Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict: The Eggs benedict dishes was boxed and featured, so 3 out of 4 of us ended up with the smoked salmon eggs benedict. It was good, but nothing that super impressed me. The smoked salmon was cut a little too thick so a bit on the heavy side, and we had the hollandaise on the side, and that was just a bit just unimpressive. - French Onion: My friend got this, and she is a french onion junkie. She enjoyed it, but it was not something that she was uberly impressed with - Mimosas: They were good.. but for $9 a glass, didn't encourage us to keep drinking. All in all. This spot was mediocre. It did not wow me, but it did not disgust me. I probably wouldn't come back, because there are so many other amazing places to try. But for what is it, it's simply a-ok.
(3)Adam A.
Each time we go here seems better than the last. Great food, wait staff make it feel elegant but not stuffy, perfect combination. A must!
(5)Shaun F.
Consistently great French Bistro! The food is the epitome of traditional french cooking. Try the stew du jour in a puff pastry- it changes every now and then and is always yummy! I have been coming here for a few years now and am always pleased by the food and service. The regular bar tenders are fantastic and always fun to chat with! My wife loves to order a French 75 or a French Martini- she always loves them. The menu may be small, but I can't tell you how much I prefer a small menu done well over a large menu that takes an hour to look through and can be hit-or-miss. Bistro Zinc is NOT expensive especially for the quality and location. People, everything is made in house by a chef for God's sake!
(5)L S.
Very enjoyable! Went there with sleepy ten year old after theater. We all loved it - service was good - food was good - mussels were the best I've had in Chicago. Did not get to linger or stay for dessert but will go back again to enjoy without the sleepy one!
(4)Taryn T.
I stopped here for lunch, and I would basically consider this place a pleasantly high-quality Panera or Corner Bakery. I ordered a "half and half" combo with French onion soup (highly recommend - it was delicious here) and a toasted turkey sandwich. They also served delicious, straight-out-of-the-oven warm bread with butter - a huge personal weakness. It wasn't crowded, the service was extremely friendly and attentive, and everything was very affordable considering the location - the bill was around $25 for two people. I'd definitely come back here for another lunch or to try the dinner menu.
(4)Heather D.
I used to work in this neighborhood and this place quickly became one of my favorite after work destinations. I still go there a lot and consider it one of my standbys. This is by far the best bistro I've come across in Chicago. The food is standard bistro fare that is well executed and the service is always friendly and professional. I always feel welcome here and even feel comfortable dining alone or grabbing a drink at the bar. There is a real neighborhood feel to the place and it's a great option if you want to escape all the douche bags who hang out on Division, but also don't want to go to the Viagra Triangle haunts like Gibsons, and Hugo Frogs. The menu is pretty typical of a French bistro and it's a good option for both a lunch and dinner. It seems that I always have to order the escargot. They are the best I've ever had and I could easily eat a whole serving myself. I also really enjoy their steak frites and croque monsieur as well as their selection of soups. I have never been disappointed by a meal here. I also always order dessert and that is something I rarely do at other restaurants.
(4)Art V.
Just left bistrot zinc Sitting at the nearby starbucks, thinking about 2 stars or 3 2 won out Dined alone at 8:30 Restaurant had approx 15 other guests As to the surroundings-- pleasant enough. The mosaic floor is a disaster. Totally off putting both in color and design. Looks like somebody puked up a pepperoni pizza. Service was good. No complaints. As to the food. One word comes to mind... Salt. Or, more accurately, the lack thereof. Actually, seasoning in general was lacking. A few slices of bread were delivered. Pretty uninteresting stuff. Not much flavor. Good crust, but totally forgettable. The butter was warm and thus, way too soft. I ordered the frisée lyonnaise salad. Needed lots of salt and pepper. If the salad was dressed with anything besides the poached egg sitting thereupon, I couldn't detect it. It came with many croutons despite the menu making no mention of their inclusion in the dish. The entree of trout had 1 thing going for it-- abundance. It was a huge specimen, served over sautéed spinach. The trout, like the salad needed a heavy dose of salt and pepper. Once uncovered, the spinach, too, needed help from the shakers. That which was most bizarre and actually, to a fair degree, shocking, was that the tomato vinaigrette (halved grape tomatoes in a vinaigrette)) was served atop the steaming hot trout and was in fact refrigerator cold. Were they trying to go for some temperature based juxtaposition? This was supposed to be traditional French bistrot, so I think not. The result wasn't especially pleasant. A mouthful of hot fish with very cold tomatoes wasn't what I had in mind. Dinner consisted of a glass of wine, the salad and the fish. With tax and tip the total was just about $50. As I'm in Chicago infrequently, I don't imagine revisiting this establishment.
(2)Emann B.
I'd really like to understand what the heck happened here. Let me preface this review update by saying that I am an educated, cultured, and successful professional who has worked many years in the service industry while in university and grad school. So I am always a great customer, smiling and easy, and very low maintenance. I'm also a very good tipper. And before you start scoffing, let me just say that prior to cabbing it to Bistrot Zinc, my friends and I kicked off our Friday-before-Memorial Day at a River North bar that featured drink and appetizer specials. The bill came to $46 and I left a $40 tip to ensure the very attentive and friendly bartender did not lose out because of the special prices. My two friends and I arrive at Bistrot Zinc around 7ish pm and were promptly seated. Our server shows up, tall with a shaved head, and at first is friendly and engaging. I immediately say, "We would like a bottle of champagne." Translation: "We are celebrating. We are spending money. You will get a good tip." The server gives us a nice run down of their selections and offers to bring us a sample of one of them, which we find perfectly fine. So we order a bottle. A few minutes later the server shows up, opens the bottle, and pours each of us our first glass. We place an order for escargot to get started. Then.......................nothing. No follow up. No offer to make a second pour. No appetizer. We had to flag a bus boy to inquire about our escargot. The server comes over and makes some lame excuse like we were so engaged in banter about the champagne that he forgot to put the order in. He then looks like he's about to walk away and we tell him we would like to order entrees. He takes our orders and I say audibly "What's left in the bottle?" Translation: "You didn't bother to check on us, and we have emptied the bottle by pouring it ourselves, but shockers, we are still interested in ordering another one." Nothing....no acknowledgement, no follow up, the server just walks away. One of my friends is then so fed up he walks to the front and asks for the manager. The manager comes over, we voice our concerns, and then ask for another server to finish out the evening. He complied nicely and the replacement server (and his trainee) were a dream, thankfully salvaging what would have otherwise been a disappointing evening. We also had our three desserts gratis. So my question to the original server is what the heck did we do to put you off? I'd really like to know. And by the way, I'm an Asian guy with a shaved head. I was wearing a navy and white checked shirt. The friend to my right was a lovely Asian woman wearing glasses, and my other friend was seated facing her. He's Caucasian, salt and pepper hair, and glasses. I want you to know exactly who we are. And I hope to goodness that the lovely replacement server and trainee collected our tip. Because you don't serve a penny of it. I ask again, what did we do to put you off? The two stars are only because the situation was somewhat rectified with the exceptional replacement server. I have loved Bistrot Zinc for many years, but frankly Chicago has many options now, and I won't be back.
(2)Carolyn L.
I have loved Bistrot Zinc for about 4 years now, since I first discovered it with my mother back in 2006. I've spent a year in Paris so I'm pretty picky when it comes to French establishments, but this place is just so cute and authentic, I can't resist gushing over it. On Saturday, I went for a late lunch with my friend. She ordered a banana and nutella crepe which looked delicious. I wanted something more hearty so I ordered the Moroccan couscous dish and was very happy with my selection. It came out hot, with just the right portion size. There were great spices and it complemented my Cotes du Rhone wine selection nicely. I also enjoyed a glass of port for dessert. I'd definitely go back and I would encourage other people I know to go back, too!
(5)Beth G.
Great food, great atmosphere! The waiter was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable. I would have dinner here every night if I could afford it!
(5)Stephanie W.
I have to agree with Reed N. here - the negative reviews are a little unwarrantedly harsh. Let me enumerate all the reasons why I love Bistro Zinc. For background information, my parents live right around the corner and this is one of their favorite neighborhood spots (in a neighborhood of easily accessible good food). They're here on average at least once every two weeks. 1. The service. The host, Michael, always greets us with a smile and seats us promptly, despite the fact that we never have a reservation. He's totally sweet and attentive, and most of the servers are pretty damn good as well. They space out a little on occasion, but Nothing major, and the bus boys are always quick about serving and clearing. 2. The ambiance. Cute and cozy. Dark enough to talk intimately, quiet enough to not have to shout to be heard. And the tables are actually not on top of each other, a real luxury these days. 3. The food. Believe me when I say I've never had a bad meal here, and I really find just about everything on the menu appealing. On my most recent visit, we tried... - Bread and butter. I know, I know, every French place and almost every dinner restaurant serves bread and butter. But the butter here is particularly good. - Green salad. Just simply dressed butter lettuce. Crisp and refreshing and light. - Salade au chevre. A goat cheese salad served with red onions and pears on a bed of mixed greens. A little too big for me, but super yummy. Great balance of flavors and even though the dressing looked a little much for me, it was just perfect. - The Mussels. A big steaming bowl of large, tender mussels in a garlic sauce. Expertly prepared and oh so delicious. - Butternut squash risotto with fried sage leaves. First of all, I love risotto. Second of all, I love butternut squash. What could have been better? The small chunks of squash in the risotto and the slight crunch of the fried sage leaves were nice touches. - Steak au poivre. Deliciously covered in pepper and cooked just to the medium rare side of rare. Yummy yummy. - Roasted vegetables. A little known secret - these potatoes, carrots, parsnips etc are actully cooked in duck fat, so don't pride yourself on being virtuous by ordering these. So good though. Totally worth it. - Profiteroles. What more can be said? Three perfect little pastries filled with ice cream and covered with chocolate sauce. Who could resist? - Almond butter cake with macerated berries. The perfect finisher to a night of good food. Warm, luscious almond butter cake served with whipped cream and the requisite berries, a delightful mouthful in every bite. Yes, we did eat way more than three people should have, but it was all so good and worth every bite. I would recommend ordering any/all of the items we tried.
(5)Andre W.
Pretty nice place to get a great meal! An ex-girlfriend thought it would be a great idea to check this place out. I was skeptical at first (I don't know why). I was really impressed with it. Really nice decor and great mood music! I had the duck breast and she had the grilled salmon. The duck breast was really juicy and came with rice. The wine wasn't very expensive and both dishes were great (yeah, I had to finish hers because she got too full). The girl that served us was pretty fast and was always available. I would definately recommend this place to anyone. Great for first dates and great for taking your already established significant other.
(5)Stefan J.
We celebrated Christmas Eve here this year. As a neighborhood spot, nice to have close by. Simple but complete menu with all the standard choices and a few pleasant additions as starters and mains. Nice ambiance and professional/courteous staff. We enjoyed our evening, and with the generally poor Gold Coast restaurant scene to deal with, this is one we'll continue enjoying.
(3)Mary S.
Excellent French bistro! My husband and I have been here a handful of times and some were special occasions. The manager introduced himself our first visit and remembered us almost a year later. Recently we ate at the bar and had the to-die-for onion soup and the delicious mussels in white wine. Our bartender Lisa even surprised us at the end of dinner with a cupcake the staff had received from a near by bakery.
(5)Jay B.
Great food, staff and this has a distinct feel of a true french restaurant. I will be returning there next time I am in Chicago.
(5)Paul W.
Always a good option. Pleasant space, crowd pleasing menu, and prompt (though indifferent) service. French onion soup, salads and stew were good and presented nicely.
(3)Laura H.
I'm very fortunate to have a great friend in Chicago, who always takes me to the hot spots in Chicago. Bistrot Zinc is no exception. A standard french restaurant, I got the Caesar salad, french onion soup and bloody mary. All were pretty decent, and the french onion soup was cheesy and delicious. The wait staff was very helpful and attentive, which I appreciated! The restaurant has open windows, so you can sit inside/outside. Great people watching on the busy street. The restaurant is close to the water and lots of shopping in the area as well.
(3)Sarah J.
One of my favorite spots in the city! My family has celebrated quite a few events here, and everyone is always happy with Bistrot Zinc. If you're just stopping by for a drink and some appetizers, sit at the bar and try their delicious chips. They have the best french onion in the Chicago. The desserts are amazing.
(5)Alex R.
Bistro Zinc, a traditional, casual French joint with friendly, attentive service, is just the kind of place I love. Its the kind of place to sit at the bar for a glass of wine and an early afternoon snack. At the same time, it's the kind of place to bring an old friend for a fun, classic, reasonable dinner downtown. As I said, service is very attentive and very friendly. When I devoured the bread, more was almost immediately brought. My server was always there when I needed them, but I never felt rushed. Simple, unobtrusive, pleasant. The food is A-OK. Nothing is particularly memorable, but the menu is filled with classics that anyone versed in French Cuisine will find perfectly acceptable. Steak frites were a little off, the steak being oddly thin and somewhat tough, and the frites being a little soggier than I would prefer. At the end of the day, the place has a relaxed charm, and that will keep me coming back.
(3)Tory w.
I really like Bistrot Zinc. The ambiance is great - it looks just like the inside of a French cafe, which makes me yearn, but in a good way. I went there a few weeks ago with a large group on a Wednesday afternoon, so we were pretty much the only customers in the place. They were very friendly and accommodating. The food is always delicious as well. I have had lots of things on the menu - crepes, onion soup, croque monsieur, steak, and everything is good and fairly authentic. Their desserts are absolutely amazing - the chocolate mousse and chocolate cake in particular. I do feel that their prices are steeper than they should be - maybe it's the location, I don't know, but I do know that other French restaurants in Chicago have cheaper menus for the same items and the same if not better quality. Also, don't order the pear salad if you're hungry, it's tres petite!
(3)Z D.
One of my favorite restaurants in Chicago. I always bring family and they especially love the mussels. And, as East-coasters, we're picky about shellfish. I end up drinking more wine than I expect - so I will now always go with the bottle, not by the glass (ugh, that night was expensive).
(4)Michelle L.
This past week was my fourth time here. Every time I find the food to be French in the best way. I find the service to be perfect - not hovering but there when you need something. Our server knew the menu well, gave great recommendations on food and wine, and was attentive to the needs of our party. I wish I still lived in the neighborhood so I could go more often, but it makes it special to only go every once in a whIle.
(5)India K.
I'm no expert of french food BUT I did grow up around New Orleans and lived there for two years. We did a fair share of french and creole dining so I had a reference point going in. FIVE STARS for sweet ambiance with cheery yellow with simple and authentic decor. It is cute! French onion soup- huh? What is all the raving about. I say 2 stars and use it as the basis of the review. If you know french onion soup this will not impress you at all. If you don't know french onion soup then you will be a happy little camper. Coq au vin- dark meat chicken on the bone, served on egg noodles. I disliked the chicken and noodles but LOVED the broth???? Tis true. I ended up sopping up the broth with bread for the meal. Here's a surprise- the margaritas are root-tootin' good---go figure!?!
(2)Mihir P.
Bistrot Zinc should not participate in restaurant week. The service is sparse and rushed. Except for the bartender who was quite polite while we waited for our seats. The onion soup was standard, nothing special. The steak frite: steak was very thin and tough. Not very flavorful. The frite was more like deep fried potato shavings which were overcooked. No need to come back.
(2)Marjie T.
For whatever reason, I am always drawn to restaurants with red facades. I don't know why, I just always want to eat there. So, while looking for a restaurant along Rush, I spotted Bistrot Zinc and made reservations for dinner. Even though I made the reservations about 5:30 on a Friday night, there were still plenty available for the same night. We were doing some shopping prior and as we walked by around 6:00, I was shocked to see not a single patron inside. It was completely empty. I began to second guess my choice, but we still went and by the time we went back 30 minutes later there were at least a handful of table occupied. I'm really not sure why this place was so slow. Service was awesome, the food was pretty good, and the ambiance was romantic and classy. I opted for the trout with spinach and it was good, not great. The soup of the day was carrot ginger, which was really good. My mom had the pork and apple stew which she thought was also ok. I don't frequent French restaurants often so I'm not sure how this compares, but I would recommend it.
(4)Charlie P.
Dinner at Bistrot Zinc tonight was a disappointment. 2 Bistro steaks and pommes frites - what could be easier to deliver on for a French bistro? The pommes frites were just barely warm, rather greasy and both steaks were ordered medium rare, but served well done. Service was indifferent. Nice wine list. Nice room. Spend an extra $5 and take a cab north to Mon Ami Gabi where I've had this same dinner 100 times and have never been disappointed. I will never go back to Bistrot Zinc.
(2)Maram K.
2 French places in one week? Who'd a thought! Did I just start this review with a number? Bistrot Zinc is very well established in ambiance and service. Normally I don't care about ambiance, but I have to point this out as I'm used to the stuffy feel when dining at French cafes (note Froggy's in highland, it was rank). Coffee was great too. I joked that it reminded me of Vegas' Paris shoppes, but I kind of meant it. And I appreciated that nostalgia. We came here for brunch upon a friend's request as it has the "best quiche" he's ever had. Brunch menu was short and sweet. My fiance got the quiche of the day (mushroom and leeks) and I got the smoked salmon benedict. The benedict was perfect. Eggs poached perfectly, plenty of smoked salmon, and a muffin that you can actually cut through without breaking out the chainsaw. It was hard having to switch plates with my fiance when we both made it halfway through our dishes. But, alas, we did. My fiance's quiche. He lied. He ate more than half! But I understood why. It was incredibly fluffy and rich and the ingredients each stood out on their own. It definitely is up there in quiches I have tasted. Great experience, a bit pricey for brunch, but with that quality of food and service, I shall return.
(4)Sarah B.
Bistro Zinc has a great, small neighborhood feel even though it's in a high-tourist count area. The French fare gets good marks--especially the French onion soup and steak frites--as does the wine list. Service is consistent and attentive, but no more than you would expect for the area. I'm happy to go back but not sure I'd go out of my way to do so.
(3)Lauren W.
My little haven... away from the typical Rush Street crowd. I love, love, love coming here. My favorite dish is the quiche of the day. It comes with a petite salad which is the perfect serving amount. Combine that with a nice cup of coffee and there is nothing better for those lazy weekend days.
(5)Christine M.
If I could give it 3.5 stars, I would. The food was really great. LOVED the ham and cheese sandwich. The turkey and brie cheese had a bit too much bread and too little turkey. Everyone at the table thought the 'fries' were 100 times better than the chips that were served with the turkey brie sandwich. Eggs Benedict was also a big hit, along with the spinach and brie crepe (VERY tasty). It's nice that one side of the menu is breakfast and the other is lunch. Desserts - chocolate mousse, chocolate cake with caramel sauce, creme brulee. Creme brulee was absolutely the winner. The chocolate is not as sweet as what I'm used to... The lighting was a bit too bright for my ideal ambiance, but the place was lively on a Sunday at noon. I'm not sure if that's the norm, as we were there on Mother's Day. Service was good, but they weren't overly warm and fuzzy. A 'Happy Mother's Day' with the check would have been nice :) Everyone seemed very happy with the decision to come here, though, and left very satisfied.
(4)Stephen F.
Dinner and service were fine. I don't have any major complaints, though the pomme frites I ordered never did make it out (we didn't need them anyway). On the other hand, I have no particular raves either. Everything was fine just... not especially distinguished in any way. I see no reason to come back, but no reason to avoid Bistrot Zinc either.
(3)Julie E.
Just like Frank says: nice and easy. I've enjoyed Bistro Zinc for years. It has a low-key, pretty bistro atmosphere, friendly and prompt service, and a small-ish menu with consistent quality food. My family's favorites: - moules in light cream sauce - authentic flavors and great for bread dripping. - French onion soup: can't go wrong. Almost everyone at the restaurant on a Wednesday evening had a mini crockpot on the table. - great salads and specials. My brother had grilled sardines and braised rabbit stew with egg noodles on a recent visit, and loved both. - great dessert menu. And definitely grab a handful of homemade thin, crispy waffle potato chips from the bar. Good, nice and easy.
(4)Carl G.
Traditional French Bistro (in Chicago no less). Had lunch there on a nice late spring day. The restaurant has a large shuttered front, which, when open, makes dining near the front almost like dining on a patio. It's actually nicer as the climate is more controlled than a patio. The tables are a little close together, but that too is an authentic touch (it would be nice if rich people had more interesting things to talk about). I began with a bottle of sparkling water and the duck liver paté. The paté was smooth and creamy and was served with a mustard, some very crispy rounds, and some cornichons. I wasn't entirely convinced by the paté and I would have liked to have been told if it was made on premises, and, for that matter, if the cornichons were made on premises. That I had some doubt was to me an issue. The waitress did help me to chose another dish and that was helpful. I had salmon crepes, but the smoked salmon was served much too cold. I believe that the crepe was whole wheat, which is something I do not care for in a crepe, but I can see how some people do. It was accompanied by a coarse julienne of radish, capers, and some crème fraîche. The radishes were underpowered, which is odd since they could, conceivably, have been local short season radishes. A spicy note would have been welcome in the dish. I finished the meal with an almond cake and some coffee. The coffee was excellent and the almond cake was warm from the oven. It was served with whipping creme and some sliced mixed berries (unless I am very much mistaken, the menu promised me macerated berries and did not deliver). The berries were intensely weak. The strawberries only barely ripe and the blue berries a little past their prime. I did not eat more than a few before realizing that they were slightly musty. The restaurant was not tremendously busy, but the service was both slow and inattentive (though quite pleasant). I was annoyed enough by it to lower my usual 20% gratuity to 15%. I think the issue of slow service has come up in other reviews, so perhaps some work could be done on this area. The prices were reasonable for such a ritzy neighborhood. In the end, Bistrot Zinc is a quite valid little bistro, and its pleasant, unpretentious ambiance makes for a relaxed lunch.
(3)Timothy G.
I have been a customer of this french cafe for years, and always go 1-2 times year, and always enjoy it. The atmosphere is great, and when you need a French fix, that is authentic, this is it. Can be a tad pricey with wine, but what is not these days, the Sturgeon is very good, mussels are always a treat, and i am sucker for the crepes, streak frites and the salmon...enjoy.
(5)M R.
My favorite restaurant in the neighborhood. The coziest ambiance and great food with reasonable prices.
(5)Reb R.
Came here during restaurant week last week. Service is AMAZING! They come to your table when you need them and always helpful with questions you have about the menu. I asked them about this dish on their restaurant week menu and the waiter sold it and I bought it! Amazing dish. Food is delicious. From the french onion soup to the dessert, everything is good. And we ordered 2 bottles of Sauvignon Blanc that the waiter let our guest taste before serving. Definitely worth trying.
(3)Aurore L.
Where do two French people go for a business lunch?!?!? In a French bistrot, bien sur!! I arrived a little early, attempted an awful parking job in front of the restaurant (with tires loudly scratching the curb), moved the hell out of there to a nice spot a few feet further, ran in and sat down in a little piece of Paris while waiting for my fellow citizen. Bistrot Zinc is really spot on decor-wise...the atmosphere is quite authentic and highly reminiscent of some of the Parisian brasseries I visited in my time - minus the noise and crowd. I started to feel a little home-sick. Watching Bourdain eating wonders in Brittany the same night was not going to help much... It was cold and snowy and I should have known better than to order a salade nicoise. But it sounded damn good, and I didn't want to yield to the highly seductive but dangerous "poulet grand-mere". It would have been ideal though for a nostalgic day and this great concoction of roasted chicken, smoked bacon, potatoes, mushrooms, onions, roasted garlic and garlic-thyme jus would have fed my soul just as much as my body. But no. I had to second-take my plate when I received it to try to figure out if the chef had made a mistake and had placed a big chunk of green papier-mache on my plate. It looked.....unappetizing. I had forgotten that the tuna was 'marinated' in what I can only suppose to be herbs. Weird. Other deception: it wasn't big chunks of tuna. Just....tuna. Green tuna. Potatoes were very scarce: 3 little bites. I had much better salade nicoise, even in Wisconsin. No lie. The steak/frites of my lunch companion did look fine though, as were the profiteroles that we shared for dessert. Yep - we shared dessert on a business lunch....I guess it's the French way. I would probably give it another try if given a chance, but would go for heartier fare next time. And leave my calorie-counting books at home.
(3)Alicia Y.
I went for dinner to Bistro Zinc, which was pretty good. I wish I could give it a 3.5 star rating but its not quite a 4. Food, service and wine were all good, nothing exceptional. I enjoyed the steak frites I got - i would recommend this spot to others.
(3)Saira K.
Lovely place. I love French food, and the food here doesn't disappoint (you can't go wrong) - neither does the ambiance - and I enjoyed chatting with my super-cute server (he's really an actor working here part-time and...my friend) and looking at the artwork with him.
(4)Mark D.
I had another delectable dinner at Bistro Zinc last night. This is my favorite neighborhood restaurant because 1) it's basically outside my front door, and 2) the food is *always* delicious. Tonight my friend and I ordered the escargot BZ to start and it was excellent, as always. I ordered the Vol-au-Vent (Stew du jour in puff pastry, creème fraîche mashed potatoes) and he ordered the Steak au Poivre (Peppercorn crusted New York strip steak with crème fraîche mashed potatoes, haricots verts, cognac-cream sauce). Mine was delicious and perfect for a cold Fall evening. The pastry was light and fluffy, the mashed potatoes were creamy, and the vegetables were fresh. There was a perfect amount of really tender lamb in the stew. My friend said his steak was cooked perfectly. For dessert, my friend ordered the creme brulee which I tried and it was amazing. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (Vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce). I think I may have moaned a few times while I ate it.
(5)Jennie T.
I came here today with a fellow yelper and friend for brunch. I ordered the potato leek soup (their special of the day) and half the gigot d'agneau (lamb) sandwich. The bread and butter that they served us was delicious. The butter was soft and creamy. I don't like it when the butter is hard-to-spread, so today's butter was really, really good. Loved it. I also always enjoy a freshly squeezed cup of orange juice. I always worry about ordering soup at non-Asian restaurants because I think westerners have a tendency to add milk to soups, and well I'm a bit lactose-intolerant. Our server told me that there's a little bit of cream but not much in the potato leek soup, and he was right. It was very delicious. I'm glad I ordered it as opposed to the french onion soup (my friend got that, and it looked really, really cheesy to me). I've also never had a lamb sandwich before, which is why I ordered it. And to my surprise, it was really good too. The meat was tender and juicy. I really liked the watercress that was in the sandwich too. It was a good combination of ingredients. I was pleasantly surprised. The only thing that I didn't like was the potato chips that came with my order. It tasted a little overdone -- imagine almost burnt fries... I probably ate roughly two chips and decided that I didn't want the rest. And actually, I think it turned out well that I didn't like the chips because my friend and I were both very full after we finished our meal. I definitely felt the need to walk it off a little bit afterwards.
(5)Jane Z.
The cuisine and atmosphere are authentically French, but the service was authentically Midwestern -- exceptionally hospitable and gracious! The entire staff was very accommodating, suggesting some great architectural and cultural attractions to visit. They treated the two 12 year-old boys I was taking out with courtesy and respect, which the boys were only too happy to return. From the French onion soup and the steak and frites to the salad with scallops and fennel, the food was outstanding -- and the prices were very reasonable!
(5)Art V.
Made reservation on a Friday night for 9pm. The place was slowly clearing out at about 10 most tables were empty. The weather was perfect which allowed them to open the French doors allowing a breeze and city noise into the restaurant. The bar was still full when we left about 11. There was no push to get us out at the end of our late dinner. I'll let all other reviews inform about how great the food was, frankly I could have cared less I was more interested in finding a laid back environment in which I could share a romantic evening chatting and sipping wine. This place was just what I was looking for and I'd highly recommend it if your looking for an evening like mine.
(5)Charizard B.
I LOVED Bistrot Zinc!!! The atmosphere was great- nice lighting, soft music playing, and decor that makes me think of a bistro in France. We were seated quickly (it was a Tuesday night) and all the service was prompt and attentive, but not hurrying us along. I got the roasted chicken grand-mere and my friend got the salmon with a balsamic reduction and asparagus. They were both delicious- my chicken had a nice crust and was perfectly moist and flavorful. Our food came out really quickly too. We ordered the chocolate cake for dinner and it was AMAZING. We left extremely full and very very satisfied. Somewhat pricey, but very worth it.
(5)Reiahnna J.
The outside of the restaurant looks so French. The window to the restaurant is open so you can get a good view of the street. Some women with French hairstyles and clothes were close to the window and made it look really French. We were seated right away. I've been to a French restaurant before (La Sardine) and this food tasted more authentic. If you like sharing, I recommend the Poulet Grand Mère. That's a half-chicken (roasted and grandmother-style), smoked bacon, mushrooms, Parisian potatoes, pearl onions and roasted garlic in a rosemary-garlic jus. Delicious and feeling. To drink, I had some blanc de blanc champagne, but after trying some of my mom's oragina, I wished I ordered that. Refreshing! I've never tried that soda before. I went into the bathroom to see if it was clean and saw that the last bathroom had a vase of flowers. So sweet! Also, are those faucets gold or bronze? I think bronze. But beware, there's a picture of nude women's backsides in the main room. A warning for squirmy Americans...unless that's what you like.
(5)Nicki W.
Not bad. Came to Zinc tonight with a friend before catching a flick. It's funny, because I lived above the place while I was in college and never dined. Four years later, I decided it was a good idea to come on by. The wine list is pretty good so that's a plus. Since I'm on a health kick I didn't want to indulge too much. I will say, the selection was pretty small and that's never a good thing in my eyes. I like some choices because most of the time I can be pretty indecisive. They had a lovely Zucchini Soup which was very flavorful and I also had the Goat Cheese Salad with Mixed Greens which was great as well. I realize that messing up a salad is hard, but the dressing was fantastic and clearly homemade. My friend on the other hand ordered the steak (which was a mistake). She had asked the waiter if their Medium Rare was true to temperature and he said it was so she decided to order Medium. Needless to say, the steak came out Medium Well and it was a let down. We aren't the type to send things back, so she ate it, but I could tell she wasn't happy. There seemed to be a bit too much fat on the steak and it was pretty "tough". Service was good. The bussers were quick to refill our waters and when clearing the plates. I was quite surprised by how welcoming the place was. I felt cozy and I like that feeling. I'll be back to try some of the other choices on the menu as well as brunch because who doesn't love brunch?
(4)Aaron B.
Today was the second time I've had the pleasure of eating at Bistrot Zinc. The first time was in the summer of '08 when I dined there with as friend. It was my first time eating escargot (I won't lie, we ordered it for the novelty) and once I was able to block out what it was that I was eating, it was quite delicious! I recall I also had a quiche that day and... well, I'm sure it was a wonderful quiche, but it turns out I'm not a quiche fan; it's a texture thing. Most recently I went back by myself on the day this review was written. I had the lamb sandwich for my entree and the Millas de Bordeaux (a vanilla-cherry custard baked in pastry dough, with crème anglaise & caramel sauce) for dessert. Hopefully I maintained a civilized facade while eating that dessert, but in actuality I was creamin' my pants. Wow. Bot times the service was wonderful; the wait staff is available to answer any questions and they're quick to buss your table when a plate is cleared. For French cuisine that won't break your bank, this is as good as it gets!
(5)Nikki L.
First of all, I have to say, it's hard finding GOOD French Onion Soup, there have been too many times the soup has been way too salty, not enough flavor or I get melted cheese on top, but luke warm soup in the middle. Needless to say, I was hesitant to order, but decided to just go for it. I was really pleased that not only was my soup piping hot the way I like it, but it wasn't too salty and the onions were nicely caramelized, balancing out the saltiness from the cheese. The salad I had was very standard, nothing fantastic and same with the desserts. The service was a bit snobbish in the beginning, but thankfully he finally warmed up towards the end. I may only come back for the soup, but nothing else.
(3)Jackie W.
O. M. G. I am just returning from one of the most exquisite meals I've had since I moved to Chicago a year ago. The house-made gnocchi with butternut squash (which I love!) and broccoli rabe actually made me want to shed a tear for such a light, well balanced dish. The only thing better was enjoying it with the bottle of Loire white that washed it down in an experience that can only be defined as true culinary bliss. My more health conscience friend had the grilled pork chop with swiss chard and was in equal foodie-heaven with these bites of perfection. We felt so strongly about our delightful meal that I asked Mark -- our 4 star worthy server -- to send over the manager so I could offer compliments on such an exquisite meal. (Sidebar: I asked Mark for a recommendation on both my entree & the dessert and he did an exceptional job!) Michael, one of the owners, came over right away and started discussing the preparation of our dishes and how they actually paired really well together! Of course, that meant that we started creating blissful bites by combining the cloud-like gnocchi with the tender pork. Ahhhh... such a delight! Finally, to make it even better, I asked for any dessert they would recommend and ended up with the bliss of the Millas de Bordeaux ~ heavenly phyllo dough with cherry vanilla custard. Y U M!!! My friend, who typically avoids dessert & all things sweet, was in foodie heaven right along with me upon enjoying this divine pasty. Overall, I was impressed with the menu, the knowledge of the server & friendliness of the owner, and the hands down phenomenal dance that happened directly on my taste buds tonight. I will definitely be back. Perhaps again this week. If only my time at the gym will be able to neutralize my new decadent treat. So flipping good... I'm still in foodie afterglow. :-)
(5)Andy R.
Great food, great ambiance - I laughed at the guy who wrote he didn't like the floor. And the bar is made of zinc, how cool.
(5)Greg M.
Quality food. Don't be tempted by the basket of yummy appetizers! Save room for the main course which is so yummy, really a cute quiet place to catch up with friends!
(5)Vivian Y.
Enjoyed a nice brunch here - great for kids (there was a baby in our group) because there isn't a whole lot of noise and people. I really enjoyed the chicken and mushroom crepe - so good and so rich! husband has the eggs benedict - great sauce but portion was quite small for Chicago standards. If you're looking for a place in the tourist district, I can recommend this place! Will be back for dinner sometime!
(4)Hillary L.
Sometimes you need to treat yourself- especially when you have a crepe craving. And your Chicago Plus Card jumped out of your pocket somewhere on a bus. And someone used it so you had to cancel it... AND the new one still hasn't arrived 5-7 days later. Tuesday was one of those days, and I had been eying Bistro Zinc each time I go up and down State. I think the fact that is was easy walking distance finalized the decision. I decided to sit at the bar, and Jon was very attentive, filling my water up at least 20 times because those glasses are so ridiculously small. What started out as just ordering the spinach and brie crepe (good, but too thin of a consistency for me) turned into a "I'm going to treat myself to whatever I want." So I also ordered the soup of the day (mushroom, very good and homemade, perfect consistency), a glass of red wine (Jon helped me decide, he also poured me a little bit more when I was running low and didn't charge me), and chocolate mousse (ok but I've had, and made, better). I left in a much, much better mood than when I came in. Jon the bartender was fantastic, noticing when I didn't want to chat and when I did. It seemed like two or three regulars trickled in while I was eating dinner, and he knew what to pour them and suggested what they might like to try next on the menu. Overall a fantastic experience, the crepe was a bit disappointing, which was my main reason for coming in, but I would definitely come back and try more from the menu... hopefully with my Chicago Plus Card in hand.
(4)Gabby H.
This is standard bistro fare: good selection of wine, all the French basics, above average preparation. I'm never disappointed in Bistro Zinc but I never leave thinking, "Now, that was a great meal!". And, honestly, I think that's fine. Bistrot Zinc wouldn't be out of place on a quiet side street in Paris.
(3)James J.
Dear Zinc, Good french brunch food in the viagra triangle. I'm a sucker for a good crepe and I found one this morning! The staff seems like they are well put together and ready for a full house. It's always nice when a restaurant's environment feels clean and organized. The OJ is totally home-made fresh squeezed and our waiter assured us that everything is home-made and fresh prepared. Four stars because I wanted a few more menu items. Some places pull off a small selection for brunch, this place needs a bit more... -Jimmy J
(4)I Love Good Foo D.
Service was okay, they can make it better by smiling when they serve. We were at this place for breakfast. We ord ered lamb sandwich- amazing, quiche that the server recommended - my friend loved it and french toast - little too sweet for my taste, but still amazing. Portion sizes look tiny but its pretty filling. I would go back maybe every few months. Its worth a try. Oh and the potato fries were amazing.
(3)Matthew M.
We stumbled past this place while bar hopping and decided to give it a shot. DC and I both love French food, so this was a no-brainer. The decor is very Parisian and authentic. I nearly said "merci" to the man who held the door for us on our way in. The food was delicious. I ordered an item not explicitly on the menu, and they made it no problem. The portions were huge, both what we ordered and what we saw others eating. The cuisine and atmosphere were so authentic that I momentarily thought we were in Paris until i looked out the window and saw a Barnes and Noble. I'm only giving BZ four stars because despite my glowing review, the food i ordered was pretty simple. When I get the opportunity to try other items on the menu that are more complex than grilled cheese, I will certainly add the final star.
(4)Tomas H.
Service is key to me - 2nd to food... We had a late lunch... Pate plate to start... Great atmosphere, music... Food runner had absolutely no personality & was rude, for example, when I asked what the different cheeses were, he looked at me, shook his head, said he didn't know and I would have to ask our server & walked away! Our server was short at first but when the Manager showed up on the floor, his tune changed and was friendlier. The water glass went empty for awhile but at least the food was good. I might return but next time, I will call the management to request better service before I make my reservation.
(2)Nancy H.
Hate to be a downer, but everything except the food is great. I went for my first time and ordered the steak frites (steak + fries) because it was pictured on their $25 coupon and because the word "frites" just tickles me. Disappointingly, it tasted like yesterday's impromptu BBQ leftovers. My dad cooks a much meaner steak than that. Perhaps French people like their steaks thin and dry with just a pat of seasoned melted butter? My friend ordered the salmon with mushrooms and turnip "mashed potatoes," which wasn't appetizing either. On the other hand, the appetizer mussels in a buttery broth were delish! They were plump and clean. Entrees range anywhere from $14-24 which is a fair price to pay for what you think would be stuffy food. On the upside, the atmosphere at Bistrot Zinc is just perfect for any intimate setting. The lighting is dim, the window up front opens up to the sidewalkers on State Street, and the tile floors make you feel like you're in a hole-in-the-wall local diner in France. The service here is also superb; we didn't have to ask for a single thing. And best of all, they let a party of old friends stay till 11 PM without rushing us.
(3)Shelley A. D.
We took the kids to celebrate Father's Day. Just like our last visit-- the staff was incredibly attentive and polished that made us feel special but not overly formal. The food was outstanding. The pacing of the meal and service was perfect. I suspect we will be returning again and again. Thank you Bistro Zinc!
(4)Steven M.
Met some friends here for lunch on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. All the restaurants in the Viagra Triangle were overflowing with people. Half a block north and this place had a hand full of patrons. So we walked in and the guy scanned me from head to toe, I knew immediately what I was in for. Fickle queens with an attitude! The place is not that big so when he walked us to the back of the restaurant I thought that we were going into the kitchen. There were plenty of empty 4 bangers in the front by the windows as well as on the way to our table. I did not say a word because I did not want to ruin the day for everyone else. But it did piss me off when they seated couples at a table for 4. And when our friends arrived they asked if we requested to be seated in the alley? That is why I took off two stars. On to the food. I had the nicoise salade, which consisted of marinated tuna, potatos, hard boiled eggs, white anchovys and tomatos in a lemon vinaigrette. It was delicious and I would recommend it to anyone. The service was great also. But there is a reason the restaurant was empty. I can't imagine having this person greeting my customers by checking them out prior to seating them. Grow up and have some respect so they just might come back.
(3)Autumn O.
Here's the scoop of the century: If you don't know GOOD food, this is your kind of place. I know good food, and therefore this is not my kind of place. The fiance and I were wandering downtown on a random and lovely snowy evening after work. "EEGADS" says he... "KRIMENY" says I... Then in unison: "I'M HUNGRY"! We wandered here and there and all around the square, eventually stumbling into Bistrot Zinc as the sleet began to fall. One decent (of course overpriced) bottle of wine, a shared entree of pan seared trout with caper sauce and sauteed spinach as well as a large bowl of parsnip soup later, we found ourselves rolling our eyes. This was mostly at the patrons of the establishment who seemed to be completely won over by the fancy words on the menu and the kitchy "French" styled interior. Clearly most of the people who frequent the Bistrot are not exactly foodies, and thus are certain to be dazzled with the overpriced and underspiced fare. What's not to love (roll of the eyes please) about small-ish portions, relatively bland dishes of food and poor spacing between tables all for a price that you can bet-yer-bottom-dollar you'll be wishing you hadn't paid later? This sounds harsh but that is that. Sub par excellence, monsieur. Adieu.
(2)Bonnie A.
I came here for Valentine's Day, It has a very romantic ambiance. The service was good and the food was delicious. I had calf liver and it has a very unique taste and texture. At the first bite, the texture was similar to steak but then it became more of gelatinous. We had almond buttered cake with macerated berries. It was really good.
(5)Ellen S.
I have been coming to this place for over 10 years. I can't believe I haven't written a review yet. I was very disappointed when the Lakeview location closed. This place is great. Some of the dishes don't really sound that good but they are. My favorite is the white anchovy salad with grilled chicken. Also, the French toast is the best on earth. They also have the best chocolate mousse anywhere. I am not usually a big chocolate mousse person but this one is perfect. Not heavy, not bitter, the perfect amount and texture.
(5)Maureen F.
A great introduction to French bistro fare. Of the few times I've been here, everything has been outstanding. The moules mariniere is perfect. Our waiter was totally gracious the one night when we just ordered that for two with a bottle of wine but for this night we also got two entrees. My partner had the steak frites, nearly licking the plate once he was done. I had the vol au vent en croûte, the stew that night being a red wine veal stew which was phenomenal -- earthy but not too reliant on beef stock for the flavor. The meat just melted which was perfectly paired with flaky puff pastry and creme fraiche mashed potatoes. The dessert is really why I keep coming back. Everything is wonderful. The millas de bordeaux seems small but it packs a punch without being too sweet with excessive caramel sauce. The gateau au chocolat is pure decadence. I've had dreams of this dense and fudgey cake.
(4)Lauren M.
As a current Evanston resident, I'm not very familiar with the Gold Coast area. However a lovely Sunday brunch with an out-of-town friend and a recommendation from a random stranger brought me to Bistrot Zinc. As soon as you walk in the door you know you are in for an experience. Not only does the decor take you away to a Parisian bistrot, but so does the food. I would highly recommend the potato-fennel soup combined with a half-sized apple sandwich. A tasty blend perfect for a chilly autumn day. I can't wait to go back and try some of the other menu items that sounded so good. It was definitely hard to decide what to get.
(5)Ingrid G.
I am in love with this place. Everything I've tried here has been a home run. The eggs benedict with smoked salmon is ORGASMIC (yep, in all caps) as is the lamb sandwich. I loved the bacon and leek quiche. Their crepes are great as well, and I'm snooty about crepes. Prices are reasonable for high-quality food. I'll be back. /Schwarzenegger
(5)V C.
People have said it before and I agree - charming. relaxing ambience. Somewhat out of place in Rush but I'm glad it's there. The service here is always top notch, the food I've had is invariably rich in taste, and I've never had to wait long even on weekends. The peppercorn steak is an old faithful and is probably the best thing I've had. The stuffed chicken that's on this month's specials is a light and flavorful dish, served in a broth that made me keep reaching for the bread to soak it all up. The hanger steak, which is a filet sliced thin, is also quite good. Despite the cozy neighborhood bistro feel, the prices are a little high (this is Rush after all). Expect to pay 50 per person for dinner.
(4)Kate S.
J'aime bien ce restaurant! I have been here a few times for brunch and love everything about it. The atmosphere, the decor, the music, the coffee, the fabulous french toast with fresh berries and cream, and stellar mimosas. I've never had to wait for a table, but the window seats are always taken... and in the summer they open up those windows which is lovely. You can't go wrong here! Everything is magnifique!
(5)Dr. J.
Our favorite french bistrot in Chicago for brunch! Lovely atmosphere, great service, marvelous food!
(5)Caroline M.
Very nice ambiance for romantic dinners and small group reunions, staff was friendly and helpful, and food tasted really good.
(4)Miss M.
I went to Bistro Zinc with my boyfriend on a Friday night. It was my first time trying French cuisine. Bistro Zinc is like a cutsie cafe and it is very laid back. Most patrons are older Gold Coast couples and groups and tourists. I think my boyfriend and I were the only people there under the ages of 45 :) but, their food was really good and I would totally go back. Their French onion soup was awesome and probably the best I ever had (REAL French onion soup, not the fake stuff!). For dinner I had a baked chicken entree with potatoes and mushrooms and it was really tasty. The dessert was the best party. It was an almond cake with fresh creme and fresh berries. It was the best dessert I had ever had. My boyfriend had the banana nutella crepe which was also heavenly. My only major complaint was that my butt hurt from the chair I was sitting in. I wish it had more padding. Otherwise the dining experience was great and the food was very tasty.
(4)Amy H.
Such a gem!! I just came back from lunch at Bistro Zinc and I can't wait to go back. The atmosphere is so nice...fancy but not stuffy or snobby. The food was amazing! I could make a meal out of the escargot. I had an amazing half sandwich with some french onion soup. Deeeeelish! The dessert menu was confusing because I didn't know what to pick. I decided on the nutella and banana crepe, which was devine. The staff was super friendly and attentive without being pushy. They really seemed to enjoy working there and serving the food. I can't wait to go back to Bistro Zinc and I plan on taking everyone that I know there.
(5)Dardo S.
Excellent foie gras... Real Onion soup
(4)Heidi H.
Once again, you have led me in the right direction when looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a great meal! My college roommate, Kelly, decided that she was going to visit me during spring break (YAY!!!!) and I needed to find the perfect place for a nice dinner before we went to the theater to see Mary Poppins. I was at a lost because I rarely eat downtown, so came to Yelp for help! Bistrot Zinc was perfect for what I wanted... beautiful ambiance, great food, and something completely different than what she could get in Bloomington, MN. We got it all here and more. I started with the best French onion soup that I have ever had in my entire life and I would go back just for that. For my entree I enjoyed a stew with puff pastry that was rich, hearty, and wonderful. Bistrot Zinc was just the right place to catch up with my girlfriend over incredible French food and a bottle of Savignon Blanc. I just hope that I can have the chance to come back again soon, especially to enjoy the windows open!
(5)Mag N.
i've only tried items off the lunch menu. what i've had i certainly enjoyed. however, the bread can be a little rough...and the time has always been off -- not very consistent, sometimes slow service, sometimes not so much.
(3)Tara M.
I have walked by Bistrot Zinc hundreds of times (and stared it straight in the face every time I walk out of Anthropogie after spending a small fortune) but didn't really know anything about it. Today I was lucky enough to have a fabulous late, long and wine-tastic Parisian-style lunch here with Dennis S., Colleen C. and Paige W. We started with a traditional charcuterie plate (delicious) and amazing goat cheese souffle with a sun-dried tomato tapenade. I am not a lover of goat cheese (unless it comes from the milk of the goats I stole from Krsna V.), but this was one of the best things I've tasted in a long time. It should be noted that the souffle is only on the dinner menu but lucky for us Dennis knew to order it. For my entree, I had the Poulet Grand-Mere, which was a leg and breast of chicken on the bone in a broth with mushrooms, potatoes, onions and tons of garlic. The bones did make it a bit difficult to eat but the chicken was well seasoned and tender and the accompanying vegetables were great! By the time dessert came around, 2 (maybe 3) bottles of wine had been consumed and we decided to pass our desserts around so that we could try them all. I ordered the Millas de Bordeaux (cherry & vanilla custard in a pastry with cream and caramel and dried cherries). I was also able to sample the Profiteroles (amazing), fresh berries with mascarpone (fresh and delicious) and the chocolate crepe (good but too much chocolate for this girl). BZ is a very bright and open space and the bathrooms were perhaps the cleanest public restrooms I've ever seen. Our waiter, whom I chose to call Guillaume (totally not his name--I believe it was Nicholas) made good recommendations, was properly attentive and put up with our giving him a hard time and being generally full of wine on a Friday afternoon. He also comped dessert drinks for us ladies. A wonderful experience with three great Yelpers and delicious food in a cute and bright atmosphere. I can't think of a better way to spend a warm, sunny Friday afternoon! Oh, and an honorary sixth star for the fact that I actually had two different glasses of wine in front of me at one point. I may just move to France.
(5)Chris B.
Visted this charming little restaurant today, with and old friend. She had the Eggs Benedict w/ salmon! I tried a burger w/ pomme frites. My friend thought her eggs were a little cooler than she wanted and our outstanding server, Jeff, whisked it away and returned with a new order, before we could say, "Excellent service!" The meal was delicious! The bill was generous! The decor and ambiance were appopriately Francophilic. Visit Bistrot Zinc, mon ami!
(5)Janet X.
This was a really cute restaurant. Came here with one of my friends who is leaving me to go to Paris next year, and I was very pleasantly surprised. There was none of the snobbishness of other French restaurants, the space was airy, bright and clean, with just the right touch of whimsy, and the food was delicious. I had the crepes with mushroom and chicken, which was very good, but when my friend's eggs benedict arrived I wished I got that instead!
(4)Jeff N.
We are big fans of Kiki's in River North, but found this great french bistro to offer many of the same qualities that make dining so great. Great service, very tasty food. We love the Mussels here!. And the service was outstanding. Highly recommend this State Street gem.
(4)Sian C.
My favourite everyday French bistro in the city. The steak frites is very good and my husband had the croque Monsieur and lived it
(4)Nancy P.
What a charming French restaurant ! I really enjoyed the neighborhood feel, ambiance and the warm welcome from the staff. It was my first visit, and I was impressed with the flavors of the entrees (and my dining companions) . We all loved the place!
(5)Johnny R.
We all have three lists of restaurants in our heads.... 1) Perfect 2) I'd eat there again, but there are five other places I'd rather go 3) No good Bistrot Zinc is in the #1 category for me. We went there for Valentines, and have been there before. It was perfect. The ambience is perfect, and the food, and service... perfect. I've had the coq au vin which was very good, but have also had the specials. This past visit I had a steak special that was very good. Their sauces tend to be very well executed, and for a sauce maker like me, their food inspires rather than disappoints. It's also a classy restaurant. When I've eaten there, I've not had boorish guys talking on their phones annoying everyone by talking about some lame movie they just saw or that they sold ten cars that day. Instead you have locals and tourists, all of whom comport themselves well, and are nicely dressed. I'd like to go again and try other things on their menu when time allows. If I was going to search for a negative, and believe I have to really think about it, I'd say they play it safe with their entrees. That's really not much of a negative but that's all I can think of.
(5)Maya H.
When did the trend of casual french dining start popping up everywhere? not that I'm complaining of course. Escargot were delish and had the compulsory blend of herbs, butter and garlic coating each little body. The creatures hemselves were gigantic...do you think we started pumping farmed escargot full of growth hormones as well? At this size I woudln't doubt it. Lamb sandwich had thick slices of real lamb with a slathered aoili to die for. Nice bite and the sweet slices of toasted white bread didnt fight for attention from the lamb. Pomme frites were a nice side and completely edible.
(3)Jacqueline S.
I love any French place to be honest, because I just love the culture (art, and films) so I love to spend as many afternoons as I can dreaming of the south of France. (If you've been you will understand why!) Anyways, the food is pretty decent, it's not my favorite though. I recommend their quiche specials of the day though if you like that or the ratatouille crepes. Their desserts are really good, and the service I experienced here was (sorry!) better than what I experienced at Bistrot Margot. Although, I went here during the down time between lunch and dinner and I was pretty much the only person in the place. So, probably is a good judge of actual service that you would receive on say a Friday night. Anyways, love the music they play, and much about this place. Have not been disappointed yet.
(4)marc-paul l.
So disappointing! I've walked past this place dozens of times and it looks so charming from the outside. Last Sunday afternoon my gf and I were looking for somewhere different to eat so I suggested BZ. All I wanted was a croque monsieur sandwich, nothing fancy. My gf ordered soup and sandwich combo, lamb and onion soup. The waiter said that was an "awesome" choice. He said nothing about my CM. When it arrived I could see why. The whole thing was soggy as if left under a lid for too long. It was like holding a wet sponge. The pommes frites were equally limp. Steak'n'Shake has better fries, whoops, I mean frites. On the plus side my gf's lamb sandwich was delicious and she enjoyed it a great deal. As for the onion soup, I thought it was barely edible since it was so salty and had too strong a flavor of beef broth. I'm said to say I won't be returning. The search continues for a good French bistro.
(2)Jims L.
I don't know - I wasn't impressed, I wasn't anything, not with the decor, the food, the service, the ambiance. Cute place for brunch.
(3)Insun M.
Pros: - Mussel appetizer: top 2 mussel plates I've ever had. Big flavorful mussels cooked just right in an amazing sauce that was perfect for dipping the crusty bread - Big portions. I hate leaving food on my plate but I was too full to finish. Cons: - The french onion soup was just ok. I love salty foods but the soup was too salty for even my taste buds. - My lamb sandwich was way too messy to eat. The lamb slices were sliced pretty thick so it was hard to keep clean with sauce, lamb, and bread crumbs all over my hands. - The chips that came with the sandwich shouldn't be called chips. They were not crispy at all but instead kind of chewy like it was taken out of the fryer too soon. Needless to say nobody at my table ate more than 1 "chip." - Service was at a bare minimum. We were never asked if we needed anything or if we enjoyed our meals but instead we had to try our best to flag our waitor down for more bread, check, etc. It could have just been our waitor though because the server for the table next to us was very friendly and accomodating to them. I'd give Bistrot Zinc another shot but for their dinner menu..and come back for the mussels!
(3)Luis E.
Excellent french rest. Just like eating in Paris!
(5)Dianna R.
Christmas Eve dinner out. Problem #1, you dine at a place that is so packed you think Santa my jump out of your a**. Problem #2, you dine at a place so empty EVERY waiter is staring at you so closely they could either spoon feed you your meal or rip out your eyeballs b/c they have a family too and frankly would rather tuck their kids in at night then watch your cholesterol go up a couple of points.... Happily I am proud to say that Bistro Zinc suffers from neither problem. My sister's ever-so-clever sister-in-law made a reservation for 9 on Christmas Eve for dinner here. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience. The atmosphere was lively and festive, not stuffy at all. My pino blanc was tasty as was the butternut squash risotto I split as an appetizer. My ratatouille crepe was divine and hit the spot (extra points for the goat cheese). Finally, I tried multiple desserts and they were all delightful! The only negative I could possibly say was they sat us at a long rectangular table, which wasn't as conversation friendly as say a nice big ole round table. Overall, great service, great food, Amazing and memorable Christmas Eve dinner! 5 STARS :)
(4)Whitney G.
The best onion soup I've ever had. Not salty at all. We also got the escargot as a mistake, but it was also really really good! The best part was the crepe au poulet. Probably the best crepe I've ever had. It had a sherry cream sauce that was to die for, and the chicken was tender and moist. Perfect! Make sure you bypass all those other swinging restaurants on N State and come to this one. You won't regret it.
(5)Brett O.
I stopped in here just due to a Groupon Now feature that they were running. Decided I should check it out since I am out of town from Seattle and yep, good choice. The wait staff is extremely well versed in the menu and how the dishes are prepared. I liked the fact that I could talk with them about the ingredients and get great recommendations. Food was very good. I had the stew of the day which was beef with a red wine gravy. The beef was fork tender and very flavorful. I would have liked just a little more robust flavor for the sauce, but the veggies were cooked perfect, not too soft like what can happen with stew. The mashed potatoes were well seasoned and the puff pastry was added for visual. Great dish overall though. I would recommend this place to any local in Chicago, or anybody visiting.
(4)S. H.
Having been to Paris many, many times I was a bit skeptical about this French restaurant. It met my highest expectations. A most authentic experience. The atmosphere is romantic and delightful. The food was excellent. My husband's steak frites was perfectly cooked, and my beef and tomato Vol a Vent was the best stew I've ever had. Kept the left-overs for 2 days (in a cooler) and ate them when I returned home--1,000 miles away.
(5)Dija S.
We loved this place so much we went back the next night. We sat at the bar and the service was wonderful. The bartender was funny, engaging and attentive. The atmosphere is very accessible, and so is the cuisine and the price. Appetizers range from 6-12 and I don't think I saw a dinner item that was over 25 (but don't quote me). I felt like this was the kind of place where you could really tailor your meal to be as expensive or as economical as you would like, and the wine list had breadth and depth in the range of options available. The first night, I had the tagine de legumes and my husband had the croque monsieur - very different dishes and both done perfectly. The next night, we shared the mussels which were prepared in a white wine sauce. Actually, we devoured the mussels because they were so good, and they give you this crusty french bread to shamelessly soak up the delicious white whine sauce. Yummmm.
(4)Kirsten A.
This place is a gem in the Gold Coast. Cute, grown up decor in bright reds makes you want to sit all day. The wait staff is mature, professional, and perfectly attentive, and the food was delish. I had a yummy ham and cheese sandwich that was toasted on the outside with a french toast like quality and super yummy sorbet for dessert. The frites were a little wimpy, but that was my only complaint. Bistroit Zinc is the perfect spot for any business lunch! We came at noon and it was pleasantly empty and perfect for chatting.
(4)Sara F.
I love this place for Sunday brunch. The food is solid, but that is not really why you come here. You can get an equally delicious brunch at LuxBar, Tavern, Yolk, etc. You come here for the quaint French cafe atmosphere. It is the perfect start to the last day of the weekend. The Croque Monsier is yummy, as is the burger with blue cheese. The Millas de Bordeaux (vanilla-cherry custard in pastry with caramel sauce) is awesome as a brunch dessert with a cup of hot coffee because it is a pastry, and therefore feels appropriate pre-noon. :) Warning: I am a huge Bloody Mary fan, but the Bloody Mary here tastes like shrimp cocktail sauce. FOR REAL. I told them this, and they replaced my drink with a glass of refreshing glass of Pinot Blanc, which was much appreciated.
(4)Jasper N.
Great location, great prices, and pretty good food and service. If you are looking for a casual parisian lunch or dinner, this is your spot. There is a mix of people, including Gold Coasters, shoppers, families, etc. This is definitely on my short list of places to eat when I'm in the area, and worth checking out.
(4)Ke M.
Came here for restaurant week so I feel it's hard to gauge what it would be like on a normal night. We were seated right away with our reservation and the server was attentive and made great wine recommendations. The food was flavorful and good. The portions were just right so that I felt full without over indulging or needing to box the leftovers. Not a ton of options but I think they know what they do best and stick to that. It was a bit loud but I'm sure it's because it was a Friday night during restaurant week. Worth trying out, but not my all time favorite french restaurant.
(3)Marie B.
August 19 -- I've amended my review. In July, I rated this restaurant 4 stars because the service and food were fab. Now, I'd like to give them a negative 5! Not just because the food was horrible and the service even more so, but also because from my past experience, I KNOW they can do better! We had brunch here and were sorely disappointed. The omelette was the worst I have ever seen! Dry, no fillings, tasteless. ICK! Everything was a big disappointment. Another yelp-er says people in the food and bev industry hate "brunch", obviously the staff at Bistrot Zinc fall in this category. But, you know what...if you hate brunch...don't open! Save everyone from the expensive disappointment we had today!! Two words: Tres Bon! This place is absolutely wonderful. Cozy, but not small or claustrophic, charmingly decorated and the service is the best I've had since moving to Chicago. Case in point, I made reservations for six (6) this past Friday. We arrived (30 minutes late) and our reservation had been given to someone else -- that, plus they thought we were a part of two. Thus, we had to wait a bit (no more than 15 minutes) for them to prepare a table. Not an issue in my world, but apparently it was in theirs! They provided not one, but THREE, complimentary appeitzers by way of apology!? As for the wait staff, they were friendly and attentive, but did not hover. Oh, and the food. Divine. The wine...great choices and not terribly expensive. In short. A very good restaurant.
(1)Brad B.
I dined at bistro zinc recently, in an effort to expand my universe of french food (which is already considerable). Two words: NO DUCK. What sort of french place doesn't have SOME sort of duck on the menu? Merde alors! So, I went with the old reliable. Steak frites. It was quite enjoyable. The atmosphere is cool, cozy and totally what the doctor ordered. The wine list was not daunting but offered a few interesting options including a lovely Vouvray (a bit sweet but, still good). I can't believe I didn't have the nutella bananna crepe but, I went for the chocolate cake instead and wasn't disappointed, one bit. I'm Brad B and I approve Bistro Zinc. hehehe Update: Hit Bistro Zinc for a brunch thing this past weekend and it was utterly brilliant. Strong coffee (reminded me of Paris). Omlette served with salad, as it was meant to be. Lovely.
(4)Linnea L.
We stopped in for a drink Saturday night and thought the staff was so nice we came back for brunch on Sunday. it was delicious (roasted veggie quiche especially). Good coffee, too. Staff is very friendly, place has a nice vibe. Will definitely come back.
(4)Eric M.
I really can't think of anything to knock Bistro Zinc for. For what they're aiming to be - a French bistro restaurant - they're pretty much spot on. I've been going here for about eight years now and they've be exceptionally consistent. I consider this to be one of my "comfort food" spots, where I can go when I just want good food with good service in a nice environment. It's moderately priced - you can spend a lot if you want to, but you don't have to. It's casual - some people wear suits, but I'm just as comfortable there in jeans. It's good for groups, couples or for solo dining. The steak frites are very good - the fries are perfect, the herb butter is great on the steak, which is always perfectly cooked. I also order the poulet grand mere frequently, which is awesome - crispy skinned chicken, with potatoes and pearl onions and bits of bacon. Their specials list at dinner has nice seasonal fare, too. I think that changes monthly. The wines by the glass pair well with the food - they're maybe a tad pricey, but not too bad. Finally, the desserts are great, too. I love the creme brulee "BZ" and the crepe a la banane et nutella best, but really all of their desserts are wonderful. This isn't Everest or Cite, but it doesn't aim to be. I give them five stars for hitting the center of the target they've aimed for.
(5)Lara M.
I really wanted to love this place, but my first experience there was only ok. I still really want to love this place so I'll probably try again. Was there for brunch and ordered... 1. ham and gruyere omlette - tasty but nothing special. 2. Banana and nutella crepe - seriously not sure how this could be bad. but by this point I had filled up on too much medicore omlette to really be able to enjoy. perhaps next time ill come back just for the crepe.
(3)Morgan C.
Decor: parfait. Service: fantastique. Brunch: incroyable! J'adore Bistrot Zinc!
(5)Marian T.
We had Sunday lunch here. At 11:30 it was full but not crowded. The menu was varied and everything looked yummy. The service was very good. The tables are kind of close together, but that was minor. I had the salmon quiche which was delicious, very light and fluffy. My partner had the turkey sandwich which was also very good, but with some waffle potato chips that were a little overcooked. The soup of the day was curried cauliflower. We didn't have it, but it sounded great. We are only here for three days, but will go back if we can.
(4)Noah L.
Love the decor and ambiance. So wish the food was better.
(2)Eric B.
Last Friday Kelly and I made our second trip to Bistrot Zinc, on what would seem to be an annual event. Our first experience here was the summer of 2007, and it was a delightful time, with a warm, playful decor, filling charcuterie, succulent venison medallions, and a superb gigondas from the reserve list. . . . Nostalgia, however, can be a cruel, cruel mistress. Which isn't to say the second time around was a total let down. The decor, ambience, and service remain superb. Bistrot Zinc has a classic layout, with wicker chair enveloped tables in the front, a gorgeous zinc bar in the center, and a cozy yet uncrowded back room with standard tables and banquettes, touched off with a multi-colored tiled floor, bright but not glaring yellow walls, and vintage prints, all of which take you out of the hustle and bustle of the Viagra Triangle waiting outside. We were not, however, rewarded in our food choices. The French onion soup was disappointingly bland, and the escargot did not taste fresh, at all -- it reminded me of frozen escargot I purchased at Paulina Meat Market. Dinner was similarly disappointing. I had the chicken grandmother style, while Kelly had the grilled poussin -- the baby chicken. My chicken was tough, and while the dish had a wonderful smoky flavor from the bacon, I was surprised at how brothy it was -- the dish advertised rosemary garlic jus, but I expected a better balance with the Parisian potatoes, resulting in a ragout. Instead I got a large soup. Kelly's dish was similarly disappointing, but mostly from lack of flavor. In retrospect, I'm not sure exactly why I went with chicken -- I was probably recalling fond memories of the cornish hen at Kiki's Bistro, which is tender juicy and flavorful. Next time, I will go more conventional bistro and get the lamb pork and duck cassoulet. After all, when in doubt at a French restaurant, go with game. The dinner was not a total loss however, because our dessert -- the apple tart -- was superb. Additionally, they have a fine, if albeit short, wine list with a very affordable negociant Chateauneuf du Pape. So why do I give it three stars? In large part because of my first trip, where the specials were more adventurous (i.e. venison), and because they had a few special reserve bottles, which were not that expensive as far as reserve bottles go. I hope this is a reflection of the tough market restaurants are currently going through, and that when we return for the cassoulet, we are rewarded with our persistence. Regardless, if you are in the neighborhood and want a moment of European respite, you can do much worse than stopping in for at least an apertif and appetizer at the bar.
(3)Sonja S.
As good as it gets being a relative measurement - I am giving Zinc Bistrot a full 5 stars based on factors relative to the myriad of other "French Bistrot - like" restaurants that I have dined at over the last 9 months. Fathers day was particularly poignant for me , for a number of reasons that I shall not dwell upon in this review. So I wanted to honor my Pop, who is far away from here, by doing it up right with Auntie Fab - a true Francophile and a recent returnee from an extended trip to Paris. I loved the restaurant's ambiance - while others have dismissed it as "cheesy" , I have been to Paris a number of times and found the restaurant both authentic and charming. Is there anything better when one is dressed for a fancy brunch and ones hair is behaving, to be seated by an open window between two tables of handsome men? To be quickly attended to with water and menus, to be promptly given delicious coffee and cold rose wine (which we asked for errr - let me not mislead you with a false magnanimous gesture) The menu was very french and I dithered mightily before deciding on the pan fried trout with scrambled eggs and potatoes. The trout was cooked so beautifully it almost made me weep with gratitude, the eggs fluffy and golden yellow ( real eggs! REAL EGGS! That even tasted like ....EGGS) Auntie Fab had the Chicken Crepes - also delish. Never rushed we ambled through our Brunch chatting and toasted Fathers far and near, alternating between people watching and chatting - the restaurant was PACKED. yet our service remained attentive and professional. We wound up our meals with desert, I had a chocolate cake that I had to take away from myself before inhaling the plate accidentally. SO GOOD!!!! So what could have been a sad and depressing day was transformed by a charming atmosphere, professional service and a perfect brunch. If that doesn't deserve 5 stars I don't know what does.
(5)John M.
Excellent menu selections, great attentive servers. Nice dining experience, just a little too noisy.
(4)Unity O.
Just tried this place after a friend expressed a desire to try it out & have to say I am glad she did. Some friends & I decided to give this place a try for brunch on Sunday & I have to say it was great. We were seated right away, by a very friendly hostess. I was impressed with the warm atmosphere--since it was a beautiful day they had their front windows open & lots of light was streaming in. Being a brunch outing my 1st order of concern was getting COFFEE & I not disappointed--it was quite good (my only complaint is that the cups are tiny). Their menu while not huge--did have lots of variety. I ordered the chicken & mushroom crepes on the recomendation of the waitress & was pleased with the portion size and the taste/flavors. my only regret is that I had no room for dessert--sigh! One more reason to just go back though.
(4)Erica K.
I had a fantastic lunch here with my friend Laura. We went to an early movie and were starving and just dropped in at about 1 on a Sunday. Our server was attentive but not obnoxious. And I know this is going to sound funny, but this place exudes good manners. It's totally polite and charming. And the food was great. I had a cup of white bean, fennel soup with half of an apple and guyerre sandwich. The bread on the sandwich was toasted brioche and the cheese was melty and savory. The apples were green and crisp and provided perfect contrast and texture. The soup was well seasoned and subtle. I really enjoyed the whole experience and will be back again.
(4)Mac P.
Two stars for this restaurant, not because it was bad ... the food was OK but quite unmemorable. That's why I am typing this review ASAP because otherwise I may forget I ever ate here. The one thing I won't forget though is the bill, not outrageous but clearly not as cheap as the food (steak au poivre = quite boring, chevre salad = just OK). If you are looking for a French restaurant in Chicago, please don't go here, plenty of other places in the same price range that have much better food.
(2)Arielle S.
First off let me say that I went here for the escargot which was totally worth it! And the atmosphere and decor was also very Parisian Bistrot/ Brasserie and the wine the waitress selected was also very good. However, I was disappointed in the Coq Au Vin I ate- I wish I sent it back. And there didn't seem to be a lot of other main dishes that I was interested in or reasonably priced for what they were. I will be back because of the location, service and escargot but I hope to find a main dish that I enjoy.
(3)Andrea R.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc for brunch a few months ago, and it was great. Went again this past weekend for dinner, and it was even better. Highly recommend the chicken and mushroom crepe. At $10, it's filling and full of flavor (read: lots and lots of cream). Not exactly the healthiest of fare, but for a treat, it's totally worth it.
(5)Leslie O.
Quiche was terrible. Love traditional tall Quiche and had to send this one back it was that bad. Ordered a salad instead that was decent. Offered to buy me dessert, but it was lunch and I did not except. Dissappointed:(
(2)Veliero M.
On a warm autumn Saturday afternoon we stumbled upon Bistrot Zinc with its big windows open to let the sun and warm air in. The waiter was very nice, the service fast and the food good! We had the creme brulee, not in that order, we ate it last actually. Very nice, could not stop eating it! And the specials. The quiche, the zucchini soup that was so velvety and smooth and the crepe with mushroom and a sherry sauce where you could just taste the sherry in your mouth and it was so very delicious. We will be back!
(4)Amy Z.
This place is legitimately amazing. It is not cheap--so if you care mainly about that, go elsewhere. But if you want a fantastic date or night out with close friends and don't mind paying a bit for it, you will have a great time. Their best thing here is hands down the creme brulee. I feel like I shouldn't be typing this on Yelp, because I'm always a little scared that when I go there, they will be out, but so far so good, and the pastry chef deserves credit where credit is due. The dessert portions are generous, so for all you calorie counters out there, you can share this with someone else. As for their food, I tend to like the French Onion Soup and any of their vegetarian salads. I've had the dinner crepes (galettes) here a few times and have never fallen in love, but a few of my dinner companions have enjoyed these. I recently went here with my boyfriend and his family and everybody enjoyed their meal. In short, if you like things on the lighter side then stick with the salads and save room for dessert, but if you are a heartier eater then you should feel safe choosing any of the mains.
(5)Elizabeth R.
Went here last night with my husband for NYE dinner. We had a multitude of problems and a very poor dining experience and definitely will not be going back again. First, both things I ordered they didn't have. It was a bellini for a drink, which was fine, I can understand that. But then to be out of the filet! I was upset. It was a holiday dinner and I wanted something special which for me meant a filet. The waiter could have told me that when he explicitly pointed out the special entrees and before we stared at the menu for ten minutes! Also, we had reservations and yet got seated at the worst table in the whole restaurant. We also felt so rushed it was rediculous. When we are spending that much money for drinks and dinner on a holiday I don't want to be rushed. I mean our food came out in literally three minutes. Then the waiter kept walking by eyeing our plates to see if we were done. My husband and I both got the steak frites and I had to spit so much fat from the steak in my napkin I think there was more in there than actually went in my mouth. So overall, poor food and bad service, not my idea of a great restaurant. The prices were fine and I didn't mind the decor and atmosphere.
(1)Sarah J.
After passing by decided to try it out on a whim. French onion soup was delicious. Adorable inside! I'll definitely be back.
(5)Double L.
This place is probably the only thing I miss about not living in the Gold Coast anymore. Maybe that and the smell of stale vomit on the weekends. I think of this place as a bit of an oasis in the Gold Coast/Viagra Triangle area. The atmosphere is really nice and their attempt to transport you to a nice little bistro in Paris is fairly effective. The staff for the most part is friendly and accommodating. The crowd is always a nice mix and the place never seemed to try to be more then it is. I'm sure it is possible to pay quite a bit more at another venue and receive the same quality service and food but that is your choice. We have tried several different things on the menu but always fall back to the Peppercorn Steak. Onion Soup is pretty tasty and they seem to have some great dessert specials on a regular basis. Probably worth checking out for an after dinner drink and dessert if you are dining some place else in the area and are looking for a change of scenery. Zinc, That's what I think. RrL
(4)Julia R.
Their crème brulée is fantastic. It's my favorite thing on the menu. I've had several of the soups and vegetarians options and they were all quite good. Never waited very long to get a table and the servers are very pleasant and helpful.
(4)Jessica M.
I had a long lunch with a girlfriend at Bistrot Zinc today. All in all it was a great experience. The ambience of the place is adorable -- tile floor, classic bar, potted palms -- very "cute corner bistro." And the food was also quite good, though not the best French cuisine I've had in Chicago (that would be Bistro Campagne or Marche). But definitely still four-star worthy. The service left a little bit to be desired -- our waiter just seemed a bit checked out, but no major gaffes or anything. All in all a very pleasant place for a long lunch with a girlfriend.
(4)Matt L.
I guess it's about time that I review Bistro Zinc. I've been there a number of times now with my parents, who like the place enough to keep going back. First off: the service is excellent. Even though it's not a comparatively expensive restaurant (entrees range from $16-30), they make you feel like you're at a real first class establishment. Secondly: I don't think I'm cut out for French food. Escargot I can do, but the salmon and other cooked fishies, uh uh. So I'm usually forced into red meat or the other white meat. Or French onion soup. (If I had a better sense of humor, I'd probably write "LOL" instead of this sentence and move on.) Third: The steak frites here is teh sucks. Seriously, that piece of meat is so flat and sad. Even the big pat of herbed butter doesn't help him out. And his fried friends that live on the plate next to him, they're sad too. Fourth: Croque Monsieur is good, but not that good. He needs better cheese!!! Fifth: French onion soup is very good. Sixth: Dessert is good. Seventh: They make a great martini and a bloody brilliant bloody mary. I'm no wine some lee a (or whatever term they use when someone makes a profession of telling people how to get drunk), but their selection seems quite nice. They have a Jeroboam of Veuve on the wall to prove it. Eighth: Brunch here is the shiznitobamsnipsnapsnap. Seriously, banana nutella crepes all the time.
(4)Craig C.
I have two comments: 1. Best Mussels in the city. 2. Best Crepes in the city. 'nuff said.
(5)matt b.
I guess I don't know why anyone would go here on purpose, but if they did, they probably wouldn't hate it? It's middle of the road on most counts. The prices were reasonable, service was fine (borderline slow), menu was pretty typical for brunch/lunch, and food was fine. I had the Oeufs au Saumon Fum, hollandaise was fine, salmon was better than average, and a bloody mary that was actually superb. For a fallback, if you are local, it's a go.
(3)Lisa S.
Excellent food, service, and ambiance on a recent weeknight. The mussels (appetizer) are superb. The roasted chicken was perfectly tender and so flavorful...loved the mushroom, bacon, pearl onion combo. Also tried the steak frites (delicious as well). Great place for date night!
(4)Katie C.
You brought me Champagne when I got a new job. You brought me chocolate when cried into my wine glass about my ex. Remember that day it was like 20 below?....You...yes you....gave me the come hither stare to relax and get toasty with you. Some times you get really busy and I feel like I wither away into the crowd. Other times just a few other people are there with you and me. I love you Bistro Zinc. I honestly love you. ps- J'adore votre potage franais d'oignon
(5)Dustin B.
Great place for a romantic dinner. Prices were quite reasonable. We were seated immediately at about 8:15 on a Sunday evening (about 45 minutes before closing time). Even this close to closing time, we received very good service. I had the carmelized onion tart for an app: oh so rich (almost too heavy). It was very good. My wife had the onion soup (as usual). It was not quite up to our standards. The cheese, crouton, and onions were very good, and the stock had a nice flavor to it but needed more body. Possible they were using a dark chicken stock instead of a beef or veal stock. I had the foie de veau (I love organ meat). Ordered medium rare. The insides were good, but the outside was a little too seared (to the point of being charred). Pommes puree were good. My wife had a chicken and mushroom crepe. Had a little too much chicken, and perhaps not quite enough mushrooms, but good other than that. Dessert was poached pears with mascarpone. My wife liked the pears, I liked the mascarpone. That works pretty well, I'd say. Brownie points for carrying Duvel. I order one whenever I can. Can't buy that one in Iowa. It was even served in a Duvel glass.
(4)Mike G.
Found bug in $11.50 glass of wine. I'm sorry, but first impressions go a long ways. Find a cleaner establishment. (they did replace the glass of wine)
(1)Neline S.
I am a BIG fan of French food and I took my friend to Bistrot Zinc to satisfy our fix. I ordered the Vol au Vent en Croute and it was excellent. I think I enjoyed the pastry more than the stew itself but what totally blew me away was their mousse au chocolat. The mousse was light and airy and the chocolate shavings were bittersweet. I couldn't believe how amazing this dessert was that I have no desire to try any dessert on their menu because I love this so much.
(5)Stef B.
You can't go wrong grabbing lunch here! I've tried it all, soup & sandwich, quiche, French Onion soup... its all delicious! I've only been here for lunch, and they're never really busy so it's a nice calm, relaxing place to go. The interior is great, it really does feel like you stepped right out of Chicago and into France. I am a supporter!
(4)Annie S.
I don't understand why people think this place is so great for brunch (no offense to fellow reviewers) but my friends and I thought it was pretty mediocre. We ordered eggs benedict, omelet w/salad and the basic breakfast w/ eggs, toast, ham and potatoes. The portions were pretty small (which makes sense since we are in a french restaurant) but the dishes were pretty bland. What I liked the most was the potatoes. We also had mimosas, which I thought was pricey at $9/glass. However, the service was great and the staff are really nice. The decor is pleasant and it was fun to people watch as well. It was a really diverse group of eaters, which is always nice to see. I don't think I will ever go back for the brunch but I might try it for dinner sometime. The location is great and it would be fun to go back in the summertime.
(2)Abby S.
It wasn't that the food wasn't wonderful, but good food is nothing in comparison to great service. I am aged 21 and an undergraduate at Columbia College Chicago where I study fiction writing. I am meek in stature, only coming up to 5'1". Why am I saying this here? It is because I was looked down the long, aquiline nose of both host and server upon entering the restaurant. My attire? More than appropriate. My autonomy? On or above par. My company? Educated and observant of nice restaurant doctrine. Nevertheless, we were discriminated against. Maybe because we were young, maybe because we were women, it is unknown why. I had gone there twice previously in the afternoon during last year, however, the third time did not serve me well at all. For this, my vote for Bistrot Zinc went down considerably. I am by no means the final say, and I hope those who go there whom are in the same position as me have finer service than I did; I am just saying I would be wary to travel there again.
(2)Joshua M.
First off I'm a bit biased. I think French stuff is overrated. I know I know, they are so romantic. But you know there is a reason they are attacked first in every world war. Despite this I was a good sport and tried Bistrot Zinc. And you know what, I had a great banana and nutella crepe, with a side of extra crispy bacon. It was kinda pricey for what it was, but definitely good. The service however was just weird, and that was where BZ lost some stars with me.
(3)Karen W.
Mmmmmmm... Delicious! Had pork cheeks tonight, usually have trout, always have mussels or escargot as an appetizer. My husband loves the chicken crepe, the salmon, and calves liver. Atmosphere is outstanding! Music is superb. Great place for a comfortable, delectable meal. Oh wait -- the bread!!!! Go try it
(5)Nicole L.
I love this spot for a morning brunch in a quaint French setting. I recently had dinner here for the first time and was very pleased with the experience. The ladies at the table next to us were drinking kir royales so I of course had to order one as well...loved it. As an appetizer we tried the mussels, which were extremely flavorful and were deemed the best mussels ever by my dining companion. Additionally, the service was fantastic and very willing to answer any questions about the menu. I highly recommend Bistrot Zinc for anyone in the mood for good food in a sophisticated atmosphere!
(5)Patrick P.
Despairing that Brasserie JO closed since my last Chicago visit, I tried Bistrot Zinc. Didn't take long to feel at home, with the casual French decor and a great meal at the (real zinc) bar. Bartender Lisa is the consummate host with the perfect mix of attentiveness, conversation and reserve. Her seasonal herb-infused cocktail list is creative, informed and not to be missed.
(5)Jane L.
Went in last minute last night and sat at the bar. Ordered martinis, pâté and Le Royal and all were excellent. We do love blue cheese so the burger was perfect! Fries were a little room temperature but I am not a big fry eater anyway, so forgiven. Great spot to people watch too.
(5)Jeremy O.
A nice little French bistro in the Gold Coast. Overall, I enjoyed it, even if I felt it was average. The wait staff are somewhat aloof and unattentive for my taste, but certainly not bad by any means. Because of BZ's location, there are a lot of older people dining there. Again not a bad thing, just different. The food is good, filling, and on par with typical Bistro fare pricewise, if a bit "uninspired". I really enjoyed the Tarte L'Oginon for an appetizer and the Poulet Roti (not called Roti here though, even if that's what it is) was cooked perfectly. The wine list is ok - if I were more of a wine snob, I might have been very upset with that fact that they list a 2004 Guigal but brought to our table a 2005. **UPDATE**: I've returned to BZ several times since writing this review and can say that's it's become my "regular" bistro. I believe I just had a bad waiter (haven't seen that one since) and have had a great time in all but that one occasion.
(4)Amy S.
We had a great experience at Bistrot Zinc. The waiter was very attentive and all of the food was wonderful. The special stew of the day was a pork and apple flavored with lavender. Very good. Definitely a good value.
(4)Car M.
Lunch was good - I got the quiche of the day. If I'm in the neighborhood, I'll stop in, but probably wouldn't go out of my way to eat there.
(3)Simon L.
We went to Bistro Zinc only once, but that was our last time. Pluses: - Great location in the Gold Coast area. During nice days they leave the windows wide open, creating a very pleasant environment. Minuses: - Food is just average. - The service was terrible. When the waiter poured water into my wife's glass, he did it from the other side of the table. Condensate was dripping from the jug to my wife's knife. My wife asked for another knife. When the waiter went to the back, we saw him complaining to another waiter. Also, when we were done, it took a while before we get any attention. Conclusion: We won't go back again.
(2)Randall O.
We went here for lunch. The place is very nice. Sat by the window. Service was good and friendly. We both had soup, I had cauliflower and my wife had onion. I highly recommend the onion. I had chicken and mushroom crepes. Very filling and good flavor. My wife had the tuna and loved it. Done to her liking. I would come here again.
(5)Clark K.
Went there recently and had onion soup and sandwich, food was good, but the staff looked miserable, not one smile in the place, come on, lighten up a little, at least fake it
(2)Sally B.
A civilized gem in the middle of madness on State Street. I couldn't believe how delicious and original the Trio Salad was - orange watermelon? You've got to be kidding me! It was delicious. So was the Escargot. The Walleye was tasteless and seemed to be breaded, which I didn't like. But the environment is comfortable, and yes Parisian.
(4)Irene K.
That was french food likes,we do not expect authentic,but at least get it to test similar,service was weary good
(2)Jenna D.
There was one day when I......er...I mean a "friend" of mine may have accidentally eaten two brunches in one day. But, it wasn't my fault...they have banana nutella crepes! I mean it wasn't HER fault....my friend that is.
(5)Fred S.
This was one of the most disappointing dining experiences we have had during the eight months we have been back in Chicago. We had really been looking forward to going to B. Zinc, for the reviews on Yelp are really strong and the atmosphere (from looking in the front window) appeared to be incredible. Well, the atmosphere is amazing. The food - well, the night we went it really wasn't very good. The mediocre food combined with our expectations meant that we left disappointed. We started with a drink at the bar, and they had a nice selection of French wines by the glass. That being said, you are much better off ordering a bottle of wine. Their wine glasses are small. So, while the prices on their "by the glass" selections seem reasonable, they aren't all that reasonable when you consider the glass size. The bar has a great feel to it though, and they place what appear to be homemade potato crisps on the bar for you to have as a snack. When we were seated we ordered a salad and an appetizer to share. Given the cost of the salad ($9), we figured that it would be enough for us to share. Wrong. The $9 goat cheese salad is definitely a one person appetizer size salad. It was our fault for not asking if it was a large or small salad, but $9 for an appetizer salad (given the price of the entrees) is really steep. The salad was good, but not great. I definitely would not order it again. We also ordered the escargot. The escargot are great; the bread that they serve with your meal is not. The poor quality of the bread (for me) makes eating escargot much less of a treat. I wouldn't order them again simply because the bread on the table is so bad. (Of the "bistros" we have been to - Kiki's, Mon Ami Gabi, Brasserie Jo - Bistro Zinc's bread is by far the worst.) Our entrees were good, not great. I had the lamb shoulder. It was tasty, but very, very fatty. The price was reasonable given the size of the dish ($19). I want to go back to Bistro Zinc, for I have to believe that they had an off night. I rarely find that so many people on Yelp will rave about a restaurant when it is as average as this place was on our first visit. Nonetheless, based on our one visit I couldn't recommend Bistro Zinc - I would tell you to go to Kiki's Bistro or Mon Ami Gabi instead.
(2)Callan C.
Great spot, stopped by for lunch randomly and it was delicious. A little pricey, but good atmosphere.
(4)Christine C.
Scallops were great!!! Roast chicken not the best. We went for brunch and it was wonderful. The French toast was delicious. Cozy atmosphere!
(5)Anonymous P.
Having lived in Chicago, I've never been a fan of the restaurants around Rush Street, but I was in the area and dropped into Bistrot Zinc for brunch. Very nice and open layout, stylish but not stuffy. The staff was great and the meal was excellent starting with the coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice to the crepe with the side of bacon. It's never a wrong time to eat bacon. Makes me miss living in Chicago, but then I realize it's 10 degrees outside and I realize why I don't live here anymore.
(4)Scott A.
Hard not to have a good time when you're out with a great group of friends which is exactly what I was doing this afternoon when I visited Bistrot Zinc. A quaint little French spot tucked in Chicago's Gold Coast that refreshingly has it own personality and is perfect for an afternoon get-together with friends or family. This is not to say they don't serve dinner which they do; actually they have breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. I know they serve breakfast throughout the day but I'm not sure about dinner. I should have asked since now looking at the evening menu it looks wonderful and I would have loved to have tried a few of the dinner items. In any event, its simple bistro atmosphere which is inviting and nice to me has the feeling of being a brunch or afternoon place to hang out rather than your evening main event. That said if you're just looking for a nice causal place to get together with people you know, this might be a good choice any time depending on your mood. Food-wise, I loved the diverse menu and the items I tried were definitely above average but not absolutely amazingly so though the sliced leg of lamb sandwich was pretty darn close. Other items I tried were the Croque Monsieur, Eggs Benedict, and Mussels. I only sampled the Mussels so hard to say how wonderful this dish really was but the one mussel I did have was excellent. The Croque Monsieur was also very good though I found myself thinking this one could have been better and the Eggs Benedict despite how the staff raved wasn't any better than what I'm accustomed to which is not a bad thing just that it didn't blow my mind. Not all was bon however, the pomme frites tasted just a touch burnt and I found the staff to be a bit in-personal and mechanical. That said, it either wasn't that bad or just having a good relaxing time overshadowed these issues so it didn't detract much from the overall experience. Next time you're in the mood to just casually hang out with friends and get some good food, give Bistrot Zinc a try! Bon Appétit !
(4)Amy J.
I'm giving this a 4.5 rating, maybe 5. Probably helps that we live a stones throw from the place and consider it an easy go to. Bistrot Zinc feels like a little slice of Europe with the tiled floors and big zinc bar (with the best home made potato chips ever). It's a little pricey for your average week night out, but it's just one of those places that you feel great eating in and the crowd is MUCH better than it's neighboring choices- Carmines, Gibsons, Tavern- yuck. Wine is good, food is standard french fare, always good (not reinventing the wheel but always good), delicious dessert and even better cappuccinos.
(5)Cole D.
I've been here a couple of times for brunch/lunch. Good, consistent, typical French bistro fare. Nothing like a croque monsieur and a plate of pommes frites after a night of overindulgence. I can also vouch for the onion soup, which is almost a necessity on a frigid Chicago day.
(3)Rob S.
When I long for France, I go to Bistro Zinc. It feels like I'm in Paris here, and tastes like it, too. I always order pastisse or Pernod. Great service, great drinks, and super desserts...j'suis pret!
(3)Kirstie M.
Oh, how I miss Bistrot Zinc! My husband and I spent a year living in Chicago, just a short walk down State Street from this cozy little Gold Coast gem, so named because of their handcrafted zinc bar. OK, I must confess, we went in the first time after getting one of their coupons in the mail. The place looked so charming, and it was just too good of a deal to pass up! But we fell in love with it on the first visit and kept going back. Anniversaries, birthdays, date nights, Thursday afternoons...we were always finding reasons to go to Bistrot Zinc. We brunched, we lunched, we dined, we drank and we always felt like we were in our own little secret spot. Never touristy, Bistrot Zinc feels like a tucked-away neighborhood spot in an area that's overrun with trendy bars and expense-check restaurants. My menu faves included: the Brioche French Toast (with vanilla marscapone and fresh berries...yum!), Le Royale (a fantastic burger, which, while it's only on the lunch menu, you can get at dinner if you ask), the Tarts au Saumon Fume appetizer, the Vol au Vent stew (which changes daily), the Steak Frites, the Steak au Poivre and the Nutella crepes (hold the banana, please). Adding to the charm of Bistrot Zinc is an authentic French bistrot vibe and a great staff, including Wes, the day manager, a total sweetheart of a guy. The next time we can make it back to Chicago, Bistrot Zinc will definitely be one of the first stops on our list. But for now, tell Wes we said hello.
(5)Caroline T.
It is sort of exactly what I expected. Seemingly amazing from the outside- but just A-ok food--- for a fine food price--- which is how all of the restaurants on the Gold Coast/ Rush strip seem to be. My spinach goat salad was fine- it was just that. The Salmon I was disappointed with--- way too much orange sauce of some sort-salmon was overcooked- and not enough quiona (sp). BUT the chocolate mouse was divine- not much you can do to mess that up! I did also enjoy the escargots and the ambiance- which were both straight out of Paris. So do I recommend this place? Not really- maybe lunch is better? Its just too typical here.
(3)Erika G.
I love going here for weekend breakfast/brunch. Eeeet eees so French! If I lived closer, I'd be hangin' out at the bar a LOT more. Fun place, unpretentious and lots of character.
(4)Hurricane H.
Being an out-of-towner, we were just looking for a good place to eat lunch. Bistrot Zinc was a beautiful Parisian respite from the gritty streets of Chicago. An oasis of French neighborhood bistro fare amongst the requisite Rush Street pizza or burger places. I had the Croque Monsieur with an appetizer of Fois Gras. My tablemate ordered the onion soup and the Gigot d'Agneau (Sliced leg of lamb sandwich, grilled onion, watercress, rosemary aioli). We shared. It was a great lunch. When we left, I felt like I'd had a vacation from my vacation. Ahhhhhhh. (But BEWARE, finding a parking spot in this neighborhood is next to impossible!)
(5)Sarah M.
I love Bistrot Zinc. My husband and I eat here a lot and it's also a great place to bring the kids in the early evening--wonderful children's menu and very friendly staff. It's also great for lunch--solid lunch menu and really reasonable prices. Great escargot and a wonderful blue cheese burger. Some dishes miss the mark but over all, a great neighborhood bistro for a casual lunch or dinner.
(4)Natasha M.
The most horrible food in Chicago out of the 90 restaurants we have tried. So almost every Friday night, my boyfriend and I would go find a new restaurant to dine in. It was a lively Friday night and we walked around Loop and Gold Coast, starting Hubbard st all the way up to Goethe St up north, walking in blocks to find a new restaurant we haven't tried. We walked for 2.5 hours. We walked around Rush St. It was about 9pm and most restaurants were full besides Bistro Zinc. We decided not to try it, but after walking for another 30 min, we came back since there is no waiting line. The atmosphere was above average, but the food as absolutely horrible that I can't give it more than a 1 star. I ordered Liver Pate (around $19) and my boyfriend ordered a quite expensive steak ($25), and it turned out that they looked like the same and tasted like the same. The steak was even smaller than my Pate. I am a Liver person, but this is not right. As I was about to finish my tiny Live Pate dish, I GAGGED because It was so gross and salty and full of a smelly taste and blood dripping out. I could not finish the dish and my poor boyfriend finished it for me since his steak was tinier. The waiter told me the Cyder drink I order was $3.25 and it turned out to be a small bottle and it was $4.50. We walked away, spending $30/pp, feeling that we just wasted so much money and time. I have been to France several times, and this place basically destroyed my impression of French food. 0 Star if I there is a choice.
(1)Brenna M.
I second, and third and fourth a lot of the reviews about this place. It is classy without being snobby, and the food is good, although I woldn't say outstanding...maybe that's because I thought there was too much cheese on my french onion soup. However, my friend got mad and boldly stated "There is no such thing as too much cheese". So there you have it. Also gets an extra star because it's the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with the people next to you and make new friends!!
(4)Corinne M.
My favorite restaurant in Chicago. This may be because I love all things French, especially the food. Bistrot Zinc is a wonderful place for brunch as it's casual, classy and unpretentious at the same time. The prices are really reasonable and they have the best Eggs Benedict in the city (a light lemony Hollandaise). The decor is charming and the French music they play is light and pleasant. The sandwiches here are really tasty and the crepes are yummy as well. The coffee and tea here are delicious and the Creme Brulee is pretty great too. It's never too crowded for weekend brunch and if your lucky you can get a seat in the window and watch some of the Gold Coast's characters as you eat a delicious and reasonably priced meal.
(5)Jean C.
A few years ago I had brunch here. I had a chicken and mushroom crepe. I didn't like it... it was bland and salty. The brunch may be better now, but this was my experience.
(2)David W.
We just found this place while walking Rush Street on an oddly busy Wednesday night and were happy with the food. If they had not put us near the kitchen, the rating would have been higher. We enjoyed the mussels (what a cream sauce!), grandmother's chicken, and pork cheeks. Like most French-dolts, the only pressure is being able to order the food that I'm just not sure how to pronounce and a few I wondered what they even were... Over all, good food....
(3)J S.
I've gone 3 times- twice for dinner and once for brunch- and had mixed experiences in terms of food quality and service. While I don't recommend it without caveats, I think it's a place that prepares a few menu items exceptionally well while offering an intimate French setting. The key is identifying the items that are exceptional while avoiding the disappointing ones. Of course, I can only speak of my experience... The good: the lamb sandwich and bouillabaisse. Both are excellent and merit a trip to the restaurant. The bad: french onion soup (far too sweet) and croque madame (bechamel sauce, please?). Hope this helps anyone considering dining here.
(3)Lindsee R.
My first time here, I loved! it. I had the spinach omlette and my friend and I shared the profiterole and apple tart desserts. The second time however, I also had the omlette, but ham this time and it was perfectly delicious, but the apple tart had changed into some sort of reheated frozen concoction with jar sauce. I don't know what was going on that day or if they've just traded in their old recipe, but it kind of made me not want to go back. If I want frozen, reheated desserts I'll go to Bennegin's.
(3)Jessica Y.
Here for brunch again! Delicious french toast and great coffee. Attentive waiter and we made it before the crowd when we arrived at 11 on a Sunday. They didn't rush us out while we nursed our coffee and chatted. A+
(4)David T.
another favorite of ours ,,, so far the best weekend brunch place we have found. The eggs Benedict are a winner. Atmosphere is friendly, and in the summer , with the front windows open its a great place to eat and watch the crowd go by. We have been there for dinner twice , the first time was excellent , the second time my steak could of doubled for shoe leather. If I was the kind of guy that sends back food, i would of that time ..... but I'm not... might have just been an off night for them and the butcher ! Brunch is a home run though every time !
(4)Sierra M.
Everything pleasant.
(4)Gfiddy F.
Enjoy champagne or vino at this casual and very French bistro.
(5)johnny b.
It was fine I just wouldn't go back unless someone else was paying.
(2)shawn f.
Good food, nice atmosphere, excellent service..... nuff said
(5)Jason S.
I used to live in Chicago several years ago, and the Bistrot Zinc located on the Northside (southport) used to be a favorite of my wife and I. I was pleased to see that they still have a downtown location when I returned to Chicago for business. I'd talked two of my co-workers into coming and we all enjoyed ourselves. They each had the pan-roasted chicken breast with mustard cream and I had the hanger steak with the barley mushroom ragout.. The service was efficient and friendly. My friends who were less familiar with Bistro food were welcomed and had their questions answered. Both the apple tart and the almond-butter cake with lemon curd were excellent. All in all a fair value and good ambiance for an enjoyable evening. Good French food without having to drip with pretension.
(4)Lauren K.
I had the quiche (gruyere, bacon and leeks) with petit salad and creme brulee for dessert. Very good - a little expensive for lunch, but I guess you have to consider location.
(4)Amy B.
I truly enjoyed my Sunday brunch!! Wonderful atmosphere, efficient service and great food!! My friend and I both enjoyed our choices. The french toast brioche with vanilla mascarpone and strawberries was divine. The omelette with gruyere, mushrooms and spinach was paired perfectly with mixed greens. Yum!! The menu had many choices and I can't wait to go back and enjoy more!! Just a bit of a warning. The brunch cocktails, mimosa and bloody mary, cost just as much as the entrees. That was a bit unexpected.
(4)Joe J.
Went just this morning (re: Noon) for brunch and had the Brioche french toast with marscapone and a side of potatoes. Left full and definitely satisfied. The interior is nice as well, looking upscale but cozy at the same time. No complaints about the place. Prices were average as well.
(5)Samantha L.
I came here with friends today for a Sunday brunch. I had the Croque Monsuier, which I cannot spell. Basically, it's a sandwich with French ham and cheese. It was quite delicious, though the fries were not that good (which disappointed the potato-lover in me). The restaurant looks nice and classy, and though it's not cheap, it's not as expensive as the restaurant looks like it would maybe be.
(4)Jennifer K.
Oh, this is just a wonderful place! I've been looking for a great French stop for lunch, and this fit the bill. I had the poulet grand mere, and it was succulent. The broth was not too salty, with lightly simmered vegetables. And the chicken was moist, not dry. For dessert, I had crepe with nutella and banana - marvelous. The price came up to be $30, and I thought it was well spent. I really like the fact that the place has a very laid back vibe to it. The staff is attentive. And the music is soft, yet lively...basically, the ambience is great! I brought a book with me and read while enjoying lunch.
(4)Stryker C.
Kick ass real, actual French bistrot food. This IS the kind of thing you'd experience in france and the neighborhood bistrot. I can't say enough, anytime I make it to Chicago, I will make sure to get to this place. It ain't a snobby, high-priced bullshit place...it's real, quality french food in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere...take a step into a little window of France and try this place.
(5)Paul R.
Yum. Brioche French Toast, as well as Nutella/Banana Crepes... mimosas, coffee. What more could you want when you can no longer catch a Concorde to CDG for petit dejeuner. Charming atmosphere reminiscent of Parisian cafes. Excellent service... tres bein!
(4)Ira S.
Looks very nice, with the sexiest (in a tasteful way) painting I ever remember seeing in a restaurant. The service is elegant and swift (maybe too swift-- after all, one needs time to appreciate the painting). The food-- more Eastern European than French-- is competently cooked, but falls short of ecstatic. In short, I can't give above a 3 when I like my own cooking better.
(3)Barry P.
Great ambience, great service, great food. My favorite restaurant to have a lovely dinner with my wife. The mussels are the best in the city, IMHO.
(5)Martha Z.
I've always wondered where I could go for French onion soup on my lunch break. Thanks to my foodie co-worker, she pointed me to Bistro Zinc. This place has the perfect lunch atmosphere. Quiet and spacious. The wait staff was very hospitable. My french onion soup, amazing. I also enjoyed part of the croque monsieur. A bit on the pricey side, but perfect for the occasional lunch time treat.
(4)Brenda T.
I love this place! It is very consistant, the service is great thanks to Joey, and Dave... and the manager Michael is adorable. You can't really find anything on the menu that you won't love. If you do the bar there are great home-made waffle chips, and hard boiled eggs to snack on while Joey shakes the perfect martini.
(5)Nicholas G.
Delicious food in a classy but not pretentious atmosphere. My gf and I often come here for brunch/lunch on the weekend. I usually end up ordering a glass of champagne, french onion soup, and then a sandwich, all of which is consistently great. I also absolutely love the people watching here! You see everything, from fallen socialites (or at least that's the story the charming little old lady who sat next to me at the bar once told me), to flamingly obvious homosexual designers and the rich ladies who employ them, to the usual Gold Coast suspects walking buy the street outside. The staff is usually very friendly as well, though it can occasionally take awhile to get your food, but never obnoxiously long. If you don't have time to enjoy your meal, there is a Subway, Corner Bakery, and Chipolte near by to provide you with fast food.
(4)Klaas V.
Excellent, their steak was fantastic and very reasonable at 29 dollars. Nice ambiance, good service. Really enjoyed it, thanks.
(5)D S.
Very disappointing experience. It looked so promising when we were given a table by the window early on a Saturday night. We ordered a bottle of wine and the snail appetizer was pretty good. Next, my friend ordered the sea bass entree and I ordered the salad frisse with a chicken crepe. The waiter asked if I wanted the salad and "small plate" appetizer crepe together and I said yes. Ten minute later he came over and said the kitchen would not serve both together because "there wasn't enough real estate on the table". Well, it was a Saturday night and I didn't feel like fighting so I let the salad, poached egg and all, sit ther until my crepe came out so I could enjoy a conversation with my friend and we could eat together. And, sure enough, both my salad and "small plate" appetizer fit just fine on the table. Of course, it would have fit a little better if the large salad wasn't so unballanced with way too much lettuce to go with the other ingredients. I wouldn't have even noticed or wrote this negative review if the ktchen hadn't forced me to notice. The waiter was pretty nice otherwise, the egg was perfectly poached but the crepe was kind of dougy. I can't imagine I'll be dying to go back any time soon.
(2)Isa B.
The ambiance is great, the wine was delicious, the service is very nice, but the food wasn't WOW. Very decent though but nothing to die for. My mom, who is French, had a Steak au Poivre that was ok, same thing with my husband. I had a Vegetable sandwich that was ok, but the salad didn't have much flavor. Other than that, we might go back again just to test our luck.
(3)Gracie K.
This place is solid. Every time I go, I enjoy my meal and my service. The food is tasty and (I think) reasonably priced. The waiters are always very attentive and friendly, and the restaurant pulls off a sort of neighborhood feel. I would recommend their soups (butternut squash in particular) and (bien sur) the croque monsieur. Intense, but delicious. The steak frites is also reliable (the frites are quite good!) and the desserts are not to be missed. I always leave this place happy, full, and not too poor.
(5)Alex A.
2.5 stars. I went there for a Sunday brunch because of a tropical rain outside. It looked nice. However I was overall quite disappointed by the food and the service. We ordered: - Brioche French Toast, with Vanilla mascarpone & fresh berries. The mascarpone was super thick and the berries average. - Granola, Fruit & Yogurt -- I asked for the Granola, Fruit & Yogurt Crêpe without the crepe in order to have granola, and they said sure, no problem, and just brought me the filling, with almost no granola. I guess I got what I asked for, but still.. And the fruit was mainly a banana The place was not authentic. No French server at all. We found old lettuce on our bench, and the coffee was average. I would not go back except to take cover from another tropical rain
(2)Cristal P.
I went here with a girlfriend 2 nights ago after some shopping nearby, and we really enjoyed ourselves. We split a bottle of the Vouvray demi-sec, which was excellent. Their wine list is (predictably) mostly French, which I appreciate. It's also not so big as to be overwhelming, but still has a good selection. After going back and forth between the Lyonnaise salad and the cream of parsnip soup, we both opted for the soup. It was okay, a little too sweet and rich for me to finish more than half of my bowl. I ordered the grilled salmon for my main plate, and it was SO GOOD. Perfectly cooked and flavorful, it literally fell apart from the smallest pressure of my fork. My companion ordered the trout, which she said was good. For dessert, we split the almond butter cake. I'm a huge fan of Mastro's butter cake, but this one was a pretty damn close second. I will definitely be returning for the atmosphere and food.
(4)Bonnie L.
We've been here a couple of times and were disappointed both times. 1. Service was noticeably slow. Not sure why when we were there past the lunch rush both times. 2. Food has been inconsistent and underwhelming. - French onion soup was super salty the first time. Second time there was no salt so it actually tasted sweet, probably because of the onions. - Crepes were decent but not impressive - Salad chevre was good the first time, inedible the second. Waaaay too much vinegar that it was inedible. Today I asked our waitress to take a picture of me and my mom since we were there to celebrate my birthday. While mom went to the restroom, the waitress took care of other customers and said she'd be back. Mom came back but the waitress never did. But she did pretend not to notice us when we left.
(2)Taffi S.
While walking through Viagra Triangle, we have always commented on wanting to try Bistrot Zinc...last night was our first shot. While our visit wasn't terrible, it certainly wasn't memorable, so a return isn't on our horizon. We were promptly seated by the window, given bread, water, and menus. Started off on the right foot...however...it then took 20 minutes or so for our waitress to come and take our drink orders. Before she trotted off, we quickly suggested we should order. During this entire process, she was curt and acted as if we were an imposition on her evening. So we waited...and waited...and waited, and then 15 minutes later we finally got our drinks. Our food arrived... We had the French onion soup...lukewarm, flavor was OK (go to Bistrot Margot for better)...mussels, flavor was OK - they tasted like they were steamed and then thrown in a sauce at the last minute, (go to HB, not French, but fantastic for more flavor)...and lastly, the croque monsieur, which wasn't the melt in your mouth decadent sandwich we were hoping for. The ham tasted like it came directly from Oscar Meyer and the cheese and bread were one big greasy mess. On the plus side...the pomme frites were wonderful! hand cut fries that were perfectly seasoned and crisp. I definitely understand that some nights the food, staff, or the atmosphere may be off. It just so happened that two out of the three were off at the same time for us. With so many other spectacular culinary choices in the city, we will just have to pass.
(2)Charlie M.
The service is phenomenal. The food is very authentic and its just a fabulous place to enjoy lunch. I had the vegetable tagine and thought it was marvelous. Please note, I just moved back from Cairo and I know Middle-eastern cuisine and this was right on the money. The price was fair and it wasn't loud or too stuffy. Basically, if you're looking for a good restaurant for lunch, this is the perfect place in the area. Enjoy!
(5)Bonnie B.
The atmosphere is great and the service was good, but the food was so blah. I was really disappointed in the Salade Nicoise. My lunch companion said his sandwich was "just ok." It is too bad because it really is a cute place.
(3)Bryan C.
This place was really good! It was very casual, very comfortable. I loved the atmosphere. Perfect french bistro feel to it, very laid back. Because it was my first time here, I wanted to have a classic french meal. We started with the escargot which was just delicious! So rich and flavorful. They kept on bringing us more bread to sop up all the yummy sauce! It was great! For my entree, I ordered the steak frites. The steak could have been a bit rarer, but that's my personal taste. It wasn't overcooked at all. I had to add a lot of salt to the fries, but I'd rather do that than have them come out over seasoned. They also had a great wine menu and the server was very attentive without being obnoxious. I especially loved the atmosphere of this restaurant. It was just really "cute" I guess you could say. If you're ever in the mood for some classic french bistro food in a super comfortable atmosphere, Bistro Zinc is worth checking out.
(4)Andrew T.
I thought the food here for dinner was really good and service was almost impeccable. The fries/chips they have at the bar are quite unique. I had to take 'em to the table though, since they don't serve them at the table. I also had a coupon from the mail, so that added to the experience.
(3)Rachael W.
Let's just say I've earned enough American Advantage Dining Miles eating at Bistrot Zinc to go on a free domestic trip. And at this rate, I'll have enough miles for an international flight by summer. A culinary trip through France, perhaps? But seriously, I've never had a bad meal or experience at Bistrot Zinc. For brunch, the yogurt, fruit and granola crepe is delicious and nutritious. Their daily quiche/salad combo is superbly rich yet light, which means there's always room for dessert. The chocolate crepe with vanilla ice cream is my favorite, but the banana nutella crepe is a close runner up. The atmosphere is very warm and relaxing with a quiet energy that makes it perfect for enjoying conversation with friends or dining alone with a good book. The service is fast and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I do wish they had a wider selection of wines by the glass, but perhaps that's just because I'm there so much that I've had them all several times over. The impeccable food, service and ambiance more than make up for it and keep me coming back to Bistrot Zinc time and time again.
(5)Christine L.
I always love going to this restaurant, and have tried many French restaurants in the city. I've tried their brunch as well as dinner, and I prefer dinner as the brunch doesn't have very many choices. It's great for a date or with family. Reasonable prices, delicious food, and great specials. The service is always good and it's not usually too crowded, especially for a restaurant in the Rush/State St. area., but it's nice and cozy which I love!
(4)Jeff Y.
i'm not a huge fan of french food, but when i need my fix i usually head over to bistrot zinc. they have all the usual french fare full of cream, butter, cheeses and anything else that can clog your arteries. be sure to try the mussels if you're into that sort of thing. i would definitely recommend this place more for lunch than dinner and the big, open dining area makes it good for groups as well. personally i like this place more than bistrot margot, but both are good choices if you're craving some cuisine française.
(3)melissa h.
This place is good - I was pleasantly surprised. The staff was super friendly and attentive and the bread and butter were great. Our meals came quickly and they did not scoff that I had a take out coffee from a few moments ago. I would definitely eat there again. Later on in the afternoon they opened the windows to create a more open ambiance and thought to myself that would be a great place to people watch and have a little libation of sorts.
(5)Ronnie V.
Yum. I met some friends for lunch here a few weeks ago and really had a good time. The service was pretty good and the atmosphere was pretty much exactly what I would expect from a bistro(t) at the end of Rush. But who cares about all that? Let's discuss the important things - the food. I had a lamb sandwich and I might be able to describe it as amazing. The lamb was perfect and the whole sandwich rocked (normally I'd say I'm getting sick of aioli but it worked well here) and the sandwich came with a pile of chips that were cut in a reall odd way but passed for a side. I tried a bite of the cheeseburger (royale apparently, hello Pulp Fiction) and of the quiche. All 3 were.... awesome. The only thing I was not wowed by was the cheese and sausage appetizer and the wines were ok but fairly priced. The whole menu sounded delicious and I will most definitely go back for brunch. Overall, very well priced and delicious food.
(4)Eli R.
This was my fifth, and very likely last, visit. What's happened? The place seems to have gone downhill. A lot. First few visits were fine. The inside is quaint and the menu offered a reasonable bistro fare. Something must've gone wrong in the kitchen. Who said that salt and excessive spice are substitutes for subtle flavor? And, contrary to a common misconception, vast quantities of butter alone can't rescue a mediocre dish. Yet these are the tricks on which the chef seems to rely. How about a French Onion Soup that neither contains any onion nor is a soup? I love cheese as much as anyone, but a clay pot full of molten tasteless cheese-like substance does not make me a happy diner. And if you want to offer a tagine, please get the flavors right! Walking out after a meal, I felt an undesirable aftertaste, not to say nausea. On top of it, I was not crazy about the service, although it has been quite good in the past. The verdict - I'm done with Zinc for a while and can't recommend it to you.
(2)Ren H.
This is a great little french place in the heart of the gold coast! Its a prime location for shopping and bar hopping and their food is actually really tasty!
(4)steve h.
great french place thats not too hard on the wallet. of course had to sample their escargot (which was up to par) decided to go with their tongue which was done nicely (very 'sharp' in flavor and tender in texture). it was tour de france week when i went, so they were kind of celebrating it, but cmon..nobody really cares. i know they didn't. heh. anyways, good fare here. worth a visit or two.
(4)Kelly I.
I was really looking forward to brunch here. howeve, I found it to be extremely disappointing. I love french food. I love brunch. However the service was so poor that I will never come back. Good service can make up for bad food but bad service can really leave a bad taste in your mouth.
(2)Sohini K.
It's in my neighborhood, and so I tend to go oftener than I would otherwise, given the somewhat sparse choice of good & cheap places to eat in the Gold Coast area. The food is pretty good - the French onion soup, in particular, but it hasn't been stellar. The service has been mixed - on one occassion my friend and I received no service for at least 15 minutes after we were seated, and then it took about an hour for my food to come. It was for Sunday brunch, but the place wasn't that crowded! On another occasion we ordered the mussels, which turned out to be bad. The waiter sent for another batch and that too wasn't that much better. In the end they took it off our tab. All in all, it's a good option for the neighborhood, but not the best in the city.
(3)Michelle R.
Go for breakfast. They have THE best french toast EVER. Period.
(5)Brandon H.
I agree with what most everyone here has said. Great French food in a wonderful atmosphere that does without the stuffiness and price tag. The wine selection is sufficient but not extensive, and the deserts are some of the best I've had at a French restaurant in Chicago.
(4)rachel p.
i really liked this place. it's a cute french bistro with cheerful yellow walls, white tablecloths and a marble bar. the service was friendly and attentive. and the food--at least for brunch--was light and yummy. they bring out some fabulous crusty on the outside, chewy on the inside bread to start. we pretty much went to town on this. i had a basic breakfast--my scrambled eggs were moist--i hate when they're overcooked and dried out. the roasted potatoes were lovely, bite size with just enough crunch. and i had some of the best bacon here i've ever had. it wasn't very fatty and had a relaly yummy smokiness to it. the husband got a ham and cheese omelette with that delicious french style swiss. my mimosa was more champagne that OJ--always a plus, and the husband's bloody mary was really well prepared too. this was definitely a good find.
(4)Misi P.
Relatively unimpressed with the food. I have high standards for French, cuisine and this place just didn't cut it. The food was bland and uninspiring and their bread was tooth-splitting. Neither I or my friend enjoyed our meals here. I would like to give them 2.5 stars because their service was good, but I won't eat here again.
(2)s b.
After trying Bistro Zinc recently for the first time, I must say that it is somehow a nice, quaint restaurant, despite it's bustling location. The food was great, but more than anything, our server made the night a truly lovely experience. He was the nicest man--checking on us routinely to make sure we were "comfortable" (as he put it), without crossing that line of constant interruption/feeling like you're being rushed. I had the braised lamb, and it tasted very good. My only complaint would be that I am used to braised lamb that falls apart at the touch of a fork, whereas I actually found this lamb to be a bit tough as I tried to cut it. Since I found the piece I was given to be a bit more fatty than I'm used to, the meat's toughness made it a bit difficult to cut around the fat. However, the flavor was great. Again, our server really topped off the experience, and I would love to go back again.
(4)M. C.
This place is just so cute...like a little Parisian cafe. Plus, the food is just as great as the ambiance. So far, I've only been there for brunch, and both things that I've tried were top-notch: the Brioche French Toast and the Omelette with Spinach, Mushrooms, & Gruyere Cheese. I can't wait until I can go back for a lunch sandwich someday. I'm dying to try the Croque Monsieur.
(4)M S.
Was served food with MOLD growing on it! Both hostess and waiter immediately apologized and replaced my plate, but the manager came out to very loudly insist (for the horrified customers around me) that the mold I saw was not actually mold, but a "mousse" that brushed onto the plate. Funny that the mold I, my boyfriend, the hostess and waiter saw was fuzzy and white.... (I would recommend staying away from any "mousse" they serve here as well!) The manager insisted that I was mistaken, and made a big deal about how they would "of course" replace the dish, as if she was doing me a huge favor. Would look elsewhere if you want to enjoy a healthy, fungus-free meal.
(1)Spencer S.
My wife and I were wandering around last night and made it up to the Gold Coast area looking for dinner. After passing some extremely crowded restaurants from the looks of the outdoor seating, we came across Bistrot Zinc. After looking at the menu outside, we were impressed and sat down (despite a worry of being under-dressed in T-shirts and jeans, but the hostess insisted they do take all comers). It was after 9 pm by this point (which in my wimpy opinion begins to enter the late night range) and the place was rather crowded, though the numbers definitely dwindled as our meal went on (which is to be expected). I thought the menu was rather diverse while not being overly extensive. The wine list looked rather interesting to me and though I have been almost a teetotaler lately, I couldn't resist and grabbed a glass of a Gamay Beaujolais. We started with an Octopus Salad and a French Onion soup. I thought the soup was very good with a different cheese (gruyér) and a more interesting, flavorful broth than we were accustomed to; yes, we probably order this quite frequently and usually have some rather bad ones elsewhere. I have never had an octopus salad before. It came out as a compact cylindrical hodgepodge on a bed of leaves and I enjoyed it though the roasted peppers kind of overwhelmed the whole dish. For our entrees my wife had a chicken & mushroom crepe while I had the Stew du jour (beef on this night - and I would assume on a lot of others). I have to admit that I am not overly familiar with crepes (or French cuisine in general), but I enjoyed the bite of it I had. My wife thought the quality of the chicken was not the best and while I admit it might not have been breast meat, I thought it was fine. I enjoyed my stew, but was not amazed by it. It reminded me of my mother's (which I do enjoy, but she admittedly is not a professional chef) with nice chunks of meat, carrots, and tomatoes, but not a flavor I find memorable. The pastry puff and mashed potatoes were good (especially when soaked with the "gravy"), but did not have a distinctive taste (though I guess most people would claim they should not have a distinct taste). The portions of both the stew and crepe were quite generous (at least after the appetizers) so we boxed about half of them to take home. My wife was full and I was full, but I figure being at a French restaurant we had to try a dessert. There were several interesting items on the menu, but a decision was made and I ordered the chocolate crepe. This lead to a debate between my wife and I over whether a chocolate crepe is truly French (I say it is) or some Americanized creation (as my wife says), but I will let an expert and Google tell me later (I still say it is). The crepe was served with a nice ball of vanilla ice cream on top plus smothered in a chocolate (fudge?) sauce - and let's just say none of that survived the trip home with us. Overall, we really enjoyed the place and I imagine we will find our way back there eventually - at the minimum to get some appetizers and desserts.
(4)Liz M.
I love Bistro Zinc. I've been here for Sunday brunch several times. It is especially lovely during the warmer months when the windows in the front are all open. My favorite dishes here are the spinach, mushroom and gruyere cheese omlet & the yogurt and granola crepe. Everything is delicious though, I've also tried the brioche french toast and the eggs benedict. You really cannot go wrong here.
(5)Samuel O.
Easily the best bistro I have been to in Chicago. The cassoulet is money.
(5)K. J.
After the nice brioche French toast I had at 312, I decided to give the French toast here a try. It was just ok. I thought that the service was not bad and someone came by to fill our water often. Not as many people here as I thought that there would be on a Sunday morning so we were seated right away. The biggest problem was that the person I was dining with ordered the brie and spinach crepe, yet ended up getting what appeared to be an omelet. After speaking to someone who had been there before, it appears that she received the wrong dish, because it certainly did not seem to be a traditional crepe (or they accidentally put way too many eggs in the crepe batter). For that maybe they should get docked a star, but mistakes happen and we didn't complain. Nice atmosphere.
(3)mary o.
had brunch here this past Sunday. The weather was nice so the front windows were wide open and there was a 4-top table right in front. The host started walking us towards the back so i requested to be seated at the front and she obliged..Why didn't she just sit us there in the first place? Anyways I had the spinach mushroom cheese omelet which was quite lovely, served with a small amount of nicely dressed greens. Had a great mimosa, and ordered a second which my waiter never brought, I don't think he heard me. Probably for the best, really didn't need it. My dining companion had the fruit/yogurt crepe that was really nice, though not your traditional french fare. I like the ambiance and setting of the place, it's a cute little neighborhood find.
(4)Michele K.
Today I planned a Mom/Daughter day and our afternoon began at Bistrot Zinc. I have nothing but great things to say about this place! My Mom had the Ham&Cheese (Croque Monsieur) I think even the outside of the bread was crisped in gruyere cheese, delish! with a hefty serving of Pomme Frites to boot! I had the 1/2 soup and sandwich, grilled cheese(Croque Fromage) and baked french onion! I wish I had left overs so I could be eatting it again fantastic!! Bleu cheese in the grilled cheese! wonderful! ALso one of the best french onion soups I have had in awhile if ever! We split the chocolate cake with carmel sauce and side of fresh whipped cream. HEAVEN wish I could bath in that whipped cream,(Gateau au Chocolat) Highly reccommend this for lunch! I hope to go back to try dinner and brunch its an adorable restaurant that made us feel welcomed and comfy and our server was a doll! My Mom & I will def be making this a regular lunch spot for future Mom/Daughter days :)
(5)P S.
It's not amazing, but the food is tasty and the atmosphere is fun.
(4)Meredith C.
I first went to Bistrot Zinc with my family for Easter brunch, which was great. It's such a charming restaurant with great french food. The crepes are wonderful. I had the fruit and granola crepe. The tomato basil soup is a must! It also opens its front windows during the summer time which makes you feel even more like you are at a bistro in Provence...and it's great for people-watching in the Gold Coast area! This is great for a charming meal on the weekend or during the week with the family or for a date.
(4)Gail T.
cute little restaurant in a nice neighborhood. wasn't impressed with the food. a good deal of my creme brulee was burned and you know what it tastes like when the top part of this desert is close to ashes. it was whatever and wasn't feeling a good vibe between the waitress and i. i don't wanna say snobby b/c its too forward but she was along this line. if you decide to go the best time is in the summer when the front of the restaurant has its windows open french provincial style. hence, get a window seat.
(3)Joe S.
Surprise, a great restaurant within the Rush Street area. Solid bistro fare, sensible prices, tasty frisee salad, good pate, charcuterie plate. Housemade waffle chips at the zinc topped bar are addictive. Nice soups. Good cassoulet, chicken grand-mere style. Nice wine list but not as extensive as you'd hope. Tasty butter, a must in a bistro. No pretension despite it's proximity to the meat markets nearby. Steak Frites very good. Above average desserts. Windows open when it's nice out.
(4)Takelya W.
really good food here. i enjoy the 'escargots BZ' or in other words, french snails, herb garlic, pernod
(4)Design G.
I am going to stand tall and say that I like this place. Is it the best French place in the city? No-- but that's not why you should go. Go because the staff is great, warm welcoming and make you feel like you actually matter! True story: this was a couple years ago but my honey and I used to frequent the place all the time-- it was around the corner from where we resided and it wasn't outrageously expensive and it was good, comforting fare minus the attitude or gold-digger factor of most Viagra Triangle venues. Well, after a few months the very sweet lady who would greet us at the door came over to our table one night and handed us a gift certificate for a very kind sum. It was SO unexpected and SO sweet. We have a tendency to be very loyal but never because we ever expect anything but good service and this was just too kind. If you want to go somewhere to feel valued and have a relaxing lunch or dinner with your girlfriend or honey, look no further.
(5)Brian C.
The French onion soup is outstanding, as others have already mentioned on here. Aside from that, my steak frites was pretty average. The house gamay was nothing special, either. It was a disappointing meal for what I spent, anyway. If the soup was only average, I would have dropped a star from this rating.
(3)Terri K.
Good food-- GREAT DESSERT :) Very nice decor, pleasant staff and overall welcoming atmosphere.
(4)H K.
Dinner (Thursday night): Having been to France, I could not wait to try this restaurant. Service: Fast and friendly Menu Selection is very very small, I had no choice but to order the ham and cheese. Food: The cheese plate is very good. My ham and cheese sandwich is okay, as for the " fries" I would rather go to McDonald's. If you do go, in the winter do not seat by the window, its freezing and over crowed.
(3)Morris F.
Bistrot Zinc is a dependable neighborhood spot with good food, great service, and upscale prices. Our most recent weekday evening visit was typical. We shared the grilled sardine appetizer with roasted red peppers; the sardines were tastily done and the peppers (tasted store-bought) mitigated their saltiness. One of has the onion soup as a next course, and this is probably one of the best things on the menu, a slightly sweet beef broth with plenty of onion baked with a deliciously cheesy crouton on top. Yum! The other had mussels, which are cooked in a creamy, garlicy broth and wonderful to eat with Zinc's delicious bread. The steak frites were just fine, with the meat cooked exactly as ordered, tender and tasty, but at the price a little undersized. 2/3 of the plate was covered with the frites, which are quite good. The trout served on a bed of spinach was just OK, the trout was nicely cooked but it needed something - salt helped. The spinach was also cooked just right, but it gets cold before you eat it. It also needed something - a good sized wedge of lemon on the plate would help. Next time I'd go with a different dish. We enjoyed a good bottle of merlot ($39, one of the lowest-priced on the menu) with our meal and finished with coffee. The tab for two, including a generous tip for our server, came to $150. If you're looking to enjoy the ambience at a lower cost, soup and salad makes a good option, or try one of the "lighter" dishes listed on the menu. I've never experienced attitude from waitstaff when ordering a lighter meal. When busy, Bistro Zinc can be extremely noisy and at those times, it will be very conversation challenging.
(3)Brittany M.
After living in France for a bit, it's difficult to readjust to American dining. Thank god for Bistrot Zinc. The restaurant is adorable. We were able to walk in without a reservation on a Thursday night. How excited was I when I saw they had kir! There entrees are consistently good; my salmon was delicious and the escargot - pure heaven.
(4)Sophia L.
I've only been to Chicago a few times, but I always make at least a quick stop here. It's great for something light or brunch - or just as a place to take in the scene. I love bistros and bistro-fare, and Bistro Zinc is definitely a keeper!
(4)Sarah M.
Just had a lovely lunch at Bistrot Zinc. I had the 1/2 sandwich and soup - truffled egg salad and a chilled potato soup. Perfect for a warm day; filling but not heavy. My husband had the lamb sandwich, which he said was excellent. The service was attentive, and the windows that open onto State St. make it a really nice place for an early summer lunch. We will be back.
(4)John M.
3.5 stars as I've only been once for brunch, but definitely worth a visit. The past two years we've met friends for brunch on Christmas Eve, and last year we went to Le Creperie. It was quite busy when we arrived but with a reservation we were seated promptly once everyone showed up and the service was very good. We were taken care of by the bartender (which sometimes can go either way) and it was an enjoyable experience. Everyone enjoyed their food, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to try escargot (which - by the way - was very good - dip your bread in after they're gone for added flavor). Had a bottle of brut rose to top things off, overall a very pleasant and tasty experience.
(4)Susan S.
I have been here numerous times and the service is always superb and I love the ambiance. Truly like a French Bistro, especially in the summer when the windows are open. Try to sit near them. I love escargot, although this is not my favorite on their menu as it has almost a little too much garlic in it. The crepes are excellent, the coffee divine (intelligensia) as my sister says, and if you want something light and healthy, the fruit plate is very refreshing. I just love coming here for the feel of it, as it is never a bad experience.
(4)A.S. V.
What's great about this Parisian style Bistrot is that it isn't overly fancy. It's comfortable, and not insanely expensive. Try the dessert crepes with Intelligentsia coffee.
(4)Jean L.
I moved to Chicago three years ago and have wanted to try this place since. I walked by it on my way to school every day and the open window/air dining was so enticing. But it seemed that every time I wanted to go, I always seemed to be rushing off to somewhere. But I finally got a chance to go! And I was excited. I walked in the door, and the host saw me and my dining partner walk in, turned around, and started fixing something on a table? ..umm... So we waited for a few seconds and he came back and sighed and said "Two?"..."yes please?" The waiter started us off with bread. And it was far from good. Just really bland, cheap bread with butter. But it was free, and who am I to complain? My dining partner ordered a chicken and mushroom crepe that was really quite good! On the other hand, i ordered a shrimp pasta of sorts that was the fishiest thing I have ever eaten. My dining partner was convinced it was just from really old shrimp that had gone bad and forbade me to eat any more. So bottom line? I'm really torn. It was just such a let down. I was expecting much more and got so much less than I expected.
(2)