John G.

Classic French restaurant, starting with KiKi's little Citroen parked in front. I love Tuesdays when they have the Dover sole special. Nicely prepared. I get his great Pommes frites with it, the thin crunchy ones. Escargot is always a good start, but frog legs so so. I love the crepe Suzette which may be the only place in Chicago that serves it. A classic. The service is good and the room has a very homey feel.

Georgia W.

Although my memory of Kiki's will always be tainted by later events that night (ie having my young heart broken), I can't deny that the food here almost made the breakup worth it. Flawless Steak Au Poivre- best steak I have had in a long time. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, for you to whisper all your secrets over a glass of wine. I will likely never return to Chicago, but if I ever do, you will see me here. I will admit that the oysters aren't a must have, but they definitely weren't what ruined my night.

David S.

Remember when eating at KIKI'S - everything in moderation...including moderation. Let me describe the philosophy behind the cuisine at KIKI'S with a short parable...as for butter versus margarine, I trust cow's more than chemists. That said, by all means try their cheese platter - it's milk's leap to mortality.

Adrienne M.

I was very excited to come here based on the yelp reviews and the online menu, which sounded fantastic. Unfortunately, I was pretty disappointed with the food and didn't find it very authentically French. Since I was in a large group, we had a prix fixe menu, with several choices for each course. The menu labeled them "Les Appetizers", "Les Entrees", and "Les Desserts" (yes, the American spelling of desserts instead of the French spelling with one less 's'), so that was my first clue that this wasn't a very authentic restaurant. For my appetizer, I had the butternut squash ravioli, which was excellent. It was a small portion (just 4 small ravioli) but this was perfect for a 3-course meal. The ravioli had a slightly sweet sauce on them that managed to be very rich without being heavy. It was wonderful. My entree was the salmon, which was a big disappointment. It was cooked well enough (if a bit fatty) but came with no real sauce or accompaniments other than some steamed vegetables. Plain grilled salmon with steamed vegetables is a healthy meal that I eat regularly at home, but at a restaurant you expect something a bit more exciting, especially at the prices they charge for their regular menu (most entrees in the mid-high $20s). Others at our table ordered the steak frites, which did not look particularly appetizing. My dessert was chocolate mousse, which I wasn't very impressed by, but I am very picky about chocolate mousse and rarely find ones I love. The atmosphere was nice, if a bit loud, and the service was great (another sign this place is not authentic, ha), but I found the food disappointing.

Nari H.

Delicious Duck and Lamb dishes along with classic Escargot and savory Rabbit Leg appetizers made this a memorable restaurant. Seated by Kiki, the owner, himself, we enjoyed an excellent red wine and a nice palate cleansing lemon tart dessert to finish the night off. The interior is more dimly lit and romantic. The dress code says dressy, but when I called ahead of time, the lady who answered the phone said I can wear whatever is comfortable. A majority of the people were in the restaurant dressed in suits and dresses, and others came in casual dress. Weather wasn't nice enough for it - but it has outdoor seating! It's a long-standing, tucked away, hidden gem in this area with great food, so I would recommend it to anyone.

Henry W.

I took my lady here this past Valentine's Day and we loved it. The service was great. The hostess as well as Kiki are very engaging with the guest which is a must to me with any establish I visit. We never had to call for our waitress, she very regularly check on us. Most of all the food was incredible. I had the Oysters w/ caviar and my lady had the crab cakes as appetizers which were both very fresh and tasty. For the entrees she had the rack of lamb which was cooked exactly how she asked and tasted good as well. I tried duck for the first time getting the duck breast and leg confit and fell in love. It's definitely a great spot for a date. We plan to visit many more times.

Mark C.

What an amazing tucked away place. If you're tired of yelping River North restaurants and seeing "American or Italian Steakhouse" and then paying 35$ for a big plate and small food portion, this is the place for you. You will get your moneys worth here and the atmosphere is perfect for family or a date. Average entree price $20-25. In my case we went in for our 1 year anniversary but did not mention it specifically. We ordered an appetizer of mushroom (Ragout de Champignons) which tasted amazing and our entrees were Chicken (Poulet Roti) and a Duck Salad (Sautee Duck Breast) with a side of Ratatouille. Both entrees and side came out right after we finished our appetizer and they looked/tasted amazing. The chicken was a half chicken with mashed potatoes and greenbeans which sounds normal but let me explain. Everyone can get chicken thigh and legs right, that's easy, but this chicken breast was probably one of the top 10 juiciest chicken breasts I have had. There's a fine line in timing before the breast tastes dry but these chefs nailed it. I am someone who eats whole rotisserie chickens by myself and I usually dread the chicken breast. The duck was cooked perfectly and slightly pink and the salad was arranged with thought. Not only did the chefs win me over, but the service was outstanding (again amazing for only a 3$$$ restaurant). Vino our server made sure our night was wonderful. The supporting staff made sure our glasses were never half empty and we never had to ask for more bread, it was given without asking. Plates never crowded our table, and servers were never overaggressive with cleaning. To top it off, at the end of the night Vino surprised us with a well made chocolate mousse cake and a candle saying he overheard that it was our anniversary when we were talking to our neighbor table. Overall I have never felt so valued as a customer at a restaurant and I appreciate Kiki's Bistro staff for making this a wonderful anniversary. tl;dr Amazing value, friendly staff and service, makes your night a little extra special without killing your wallet

Mickey H.

Very warm, welcoming spot. Came for Valentines day in 2014, had such a great time that we had to come back this year. The owner and wife are so incredibly welcoming and kind, they seem to treat everyone like a guest in their own home. The food was great, our appetizer of wild mushrooms and foie gras was very tasty. I really enjoyed my duck breast and leg, and my girlfriend's beef dish was on point. I'm usually intimidated by a place where I struggle to pronounce everything on the menu, but our waiter was very helpful in making great recommendations. Wine list is great, I don't know much about French wines, but we were able to find a nice, heavy wine that paired pretty well with our meal. Really enjoy this place, the food is great and the service is fantastic. Overall, I would recommend checking this out as a date night spot.

David S.

Kiki's Bistro has excellent French food and great service. We loved the wild mushroom appetizer and lamb stew. Kiki is a wonderful host and the location is great as well!

Karma K.

I don't even like French food but Kiki's has it goin on. It's pretty much the queen of French Cuisine on the Northside. Lots of pretty people here. Pretty people and rich people. I like both so I like it here. LOLZ I've hosted private work events here and I will say the staff in wonderful to work with. We can be difficult with strange requests for the invoice, some difficult guests and changes to menu and number of guests. Kiki's always handles everything professionally and never make me feel like I'm a pain their ass (but I know I am and I really do feel bad)! Service is smooth as can be. Like I said, they've got this French bistro thing going on! The space is small and intimate, just like a French Bistro should be. My go to menu items are the roast chicken with herbs. Get it with the mashed potatoes for a great comforting meal. My hubs likes the Steak Pommes Frites. They put a twist on the steak part by serving a butt steak instead of a more traditional strip or filet. So French fare is not my favorite but I really do like Kiki's. It's a Northside treasure.

Jackie M.

I've been here few times and had a voucher where I was denied to use. The service was okay and I felt like I was mistreated. It seems like the waiter cater more to their older patrons who are frequent customers. I had the French onion soup which was tad salty on the broth but the cheese was delicious. The frog for appetizer was good..the skater fish was ok average. overall food was good but not amazing. There are other options in the city for better service and good food.

Morgan Richelle M.

This place is so charming; especially if you stop by on a late afternoon or evening when the sun is starting to set. They'll dim the lights, and the rustic charm begins to fill the room even more. I love the décor and all of the photos and memorabilia displayed on the wall. There is something to look at and admire in every direction. The food is incredible. This is a great place to bring a date or attend on a family outing. The menu is broad and there are plenty of options for your whole party. Sometimes, if you are lucky, you may run into Kiki! :)

Hollina U.

Had dinner with my French language classmates on Monday. I liked the restaurant, but nothing really stood out for me. The escargot was good--- but then again I've never had bad escargot because I've only ordered it like four times in my life... Classmates ordered the tarte de Provence and pate-- both not bad. I had the magret de canard--- which I thought was just okay. I'm really picky when it comes to duck though. Now in hindsight I wished I had visited their website beforehand to order the coq au vin, since they're supposed to be known for it. Had the profiteroles and tarte aux pommes for dessert--- both yummy.... After all this food, it was understandable that I left in a food coma. The service was wonderful-- the waiter put up with my indecisiveness when trying to decide between the salmon or the duck. Also, we took forever to decide while waiting for the last person in our party to decide--- and was the last table to leave that night, but they didn't rush us at all. And Kiki was there--- apparently he seats people. Love it! His car is so cute too!!

Daniel M.

Went there for Valentine's Day! Perfect place for it - Great food, service, very French!

Lorelei C.

It may have been cold here in Chicago tonight but I felt nothing but comfort and warmth when I walked into Kiki's Bistro this evening. This place is Incredible, The ambiance, just so warm and inviting.. The restaurant's interior makes one feel as though they have stepped back in time, to a lovely French Bistro, charming to say the least, such a great mellow vibe/feeling being here. They have lovely tables set up as well a great bar area if that's what you would prefer. And.. the food, I had grilled salmon in a red wine sauce with mashed potatoes as did everyone at my table and we all agreed it was a phenominal dish/entrée. And tonight was my very first Creme' Brulee' and my Aunt had told me Kiki's makes the best in the city, and.. it had to be the most decadent, fantastic dessert I have ever had.. And. as if that wasn't enough Kiki sent us over this great piece of chocolate bread pudding cake, so good! And yes, I am spoiled.. had not 1 glass but 2 glasses of Champagne this evening.. Just have to say, Kiki is the most personable host, he walks around the restaurant talking with people, he is totally hands on. His staff is one of the best I have ever seen, truly. So, in closing, if you are looking for a phenominal touch of France in our very windy city you owe it to yourself to visit Kiki's Bistro. You will feel warm and happy here, and you will most likely get to meet Kiki.. That alone is worth the visit...

Linda C.

We had reservation here and was seated immediately. We had the mushroom fricassee and the mussels. We had the half of Kiki's roasted chicken and the steak pommes frittes. The pomme frittes were the very best. They were light and airy. It was a hugh portion. We shared the lemon tart with raspberry sauce and the raspberry sorbet. Everything was very tasty. We also had a diet coke and a ice tea. We had the early pre fixe for $29.95.

Dos T.

Kiki & Madame Kiki are almost always on had to greet you and Kiki will practice your French speaking with you if they aren't too busy. Expect a full house on Christmas Eve, NYe, Bastille day and such and plan for a busy serving crew who will still be happy to make your experience grand but will be user the gun to be sure - but a nice cosy time can be had any Monday- Saturday night at a more leisurely pace. Exposed wood beams, wood floors, full wall mural & copper top bar add to the warmth and charm of this gem - & in the winter season glass candle orbs floating in the air add whimsy. Madame Kiki hosts rotating Chicago contemporary artists works on the Bistro 'a seating area walls. Just a few blocks West of Bloomingdales Takes open table reservations or always can reserve by calling 312.335.kiki. Not open for lunch. Can be contacted to discuss hosting private events.

Carter D.

I live a few blocks from this place and can walk here very easily. I think I have been here 3 times total, fairly spaced apart. Whenever I go, I always think, why did I come here again. It's just so unmemorable in every way. The food is mediocre, and not very French either. I am 39 and I feel SO young at this place. The average age of their customers is easily in their 60's or older. Not to be ageist, but everything about the place feels old - the decor, the menu, the patrons. There are a few other Chicago restaurants with "Bistro" in their name that are infinitely better. You can search and find them on your own, but my favorite is Bistro Champagne in Lincoln Square.

Dani M.

This was a toughie. I really wanted to be blown away. Stopped here last night for dinner with my boyfriend and his Aunts. We had a reservation originally for 7:30 p.m. but ended up arriving at 7. To Kiki's credit, our early arrival did not phase them at all and we were promptly seated. That being said, after taking everything into consideration I'd give Kiki's a 3.5 1st: Atmosphere. I thought that the restaurant itself was quite lovely. Huge fan of the wooden slats comprising the ceiling with the exposed duct work above. All of the wood touches really warmed up the space. Although an adorable space, the restaurant seemed focus on cramming every table it could inside. Our group of four were quite close to the other tables and even the wait staff had issues navigating the crowded passages. 2nd: Service. Fantastic. Our server (and sadly I have forgotten his name!) was great. He took the time to explain the menu and the evening's specials, recommended wines, and was just great. Our water glasses never got less than half full and they kept the wine and vodka flowing smoothly too. 3rd: Food. Shared App: Foie gras special with toasted brioche, braised cabbage, and a sherry gastrique. Very tasty although a little small to share for a party of 4. 1st Courses: Endive salad, Mache & Frisee salad, Beet salad, and French Onion soup. Everyone really liked their dishes. The boyfriend said it was the best french onion soup he's ever had -- including in Paris! Mains: 2 Boeuf Bourguignon, Magret du Canard (Duck), and Steak Pommes Frites. All three of my dining companions really enjoyed their entrees. I, on the other hand, was left feeling a little meh. I had the boeuf bourguignon. I feel that I would have really enjoyed it had I not just cooked a version of this at home last week. Given that I though my version came pretty close to this, I just couldn't get excited about it knowing we just shelled out $30 for what I could make at home less than half the cost. Dessert: Creme Brulee. Very good. Highly recommended. Overall, a nice place to try, but with all that Chicago has to offer I'm not sure I'd become a repeat customer here.

Burak G.

Amazing food. Amazing ambiance. Amazing service.

Dennis P.

We had a wonderful Cassoulet...truly, one of the best we've had. The butt steak came to the table pounded 1/4" thick with little if any flavor whatsoever-disappointing at best.. Kiki's food has been traditionally consistent and better than average quality---SKIP the butt steak and pomme frites! Would recommend the chefs Cassoulet!!! Dennis and Patricia

Kim B.

The best Italian I've had in Chicago. Went with local friends who love this place. Kiki was there which was fun. Started with the lyonnaise salad and it was spot on. My friends had the escargot and pâté, both great. I had the chicken vionnasse and it was so good. I had to stop myself by eating half so I could have leftovers. Will be back. PS: free valet

Hannah N.

This place smells like nostalgia and old forgotten dreams. Maybe because the average age of the clientele was somewhere in the 50-60s. Rustic French food, but no finesse to go along with the bocuse d'or poster on the wall. I would have probably had a completely different impression had the wall been displaying pictures of farmers, I'm sure. We asked the server what was in the cocktails and he told us that the signature cocktail had cranberry and "some sort of fancy liquor that I can find out the name of if you really want to know" (it was St Germaine). Also I know nothing about wine since I'm primarily a whiskey drinker, but I also don't trust French places that pour you a full glass of wine, like up to the top full, given that it is my understanding that tasting portions are actually small for a reason (that isn't related to money but related to your olfactory senses/aeration). Bread was cold and hard and chewy. Mushroom ragout and gazpacho were fine and nothing to write home about. Chicken salad was extremely bland with flavorless cuts of dry meat (this was only good since I had just decided I really need to go on a diet and this seemed adequately tasteless). Calf liver was also slightly chewy since it was not the requested medium rare, closer to well. Duck was very fatty, and yes ducks are inherently fatty (that's why they're so delish), but this was the kind of fatty you would expect when the fat layer isn't rendered out properly. That being said, I still give this place 2 stars instead of 1 because of the allure of nostalgia and faithfulness. This place is like an old paperback book. Even if it wasn't a particularly enjoyable book, there still is something charming and moving about the ancient dusty smell of the pages of an old book.

John K.

Been coming here awhile but haven't been around in about three years. Same old place (rustic roadside cottage by my view) but other family members were more of a fan than I. Still it's very good. The French onion soup is perfection! Right amount of sherry, carmelized onions and gruyere cheese make it a must have. Another person had the lamb which was deemed very good. We had the trout almondine. While very good the fish edges were browned but edible (their version/style). Moist and tender. Lots of green beans on the menu, fresh done well. However, the pomme frites were a bit overdone though and thus disappointing. Food was served hot and wait staff was attentive. Two notes: the menu online is different with a slight difference in prices. A surprise while leaving, valet was complimentary.

Sara K.

Kiki is a cute elderly man who took us to our seats and then disappeared. The menu online is different than the one in the restaurant. I specifically went there to try their Coq au Vin which was not available. We had the mushroom and gazpacho as appetizers and they were decent but the main entrees were on the bad side. My duck was dry and chewy and the sauce oversalted. My friend had the chicken salad which tasted bland. All in all, not worth the 4 stars it gets on Yelp.

Nathan S.

We showed up early for our reservation and they had not problem with getting seating rather quickly. I ordered mussels (really good) and some steak dish with French Fries. Very cozy and inviting place. Good food and a decent drink menu.

Jeffrey Z.

We went here on a weeknight evening kind of early and were one of a few tables filled. We started off with the cauliflower soup special, which was creamy and delicious, and the Ragout de Champignons, which was very good but could have used a couple more crostinis. For the entrees, I had the short rib, and my wife had the filet. The short rib was very good but a little drier than I prefer a short rib. The included polenta was great, and I really enjoyed the sauce, a red wine reduction. My wife ordered the filet medium rare and it showed up mostly medium+, although a smaller section of it was closer to medium rare. It was a little dry but had decent flavor and, while not awful, was easily the worst dish we tried. For dessert, we shared the creme brûlée, which was one of the best we've had. It was decadent, and we loved the layer of cool chocolate on the bottom. The service was good and very friendly, although waiter could have been more attentive. The atmosphere was more for an older crowd, but it was charming and rustic nonetheless. I imagine we will be back at some point soon.

Julien M.

Recently went to Chicago to visit a friend. Since we were came from France, we decided to hit a French Restaurant which wouldn't break the bank. We picked Kiki's based on the Yelp Reviews. I must say we were quite disappointed. Location/Restaurant Quite a ways from Magnificent Mile, so we had to catch a cab to get there. The restaurant was quite cosy and nice. Great for a nice dinner. The waiting staff was great as well. Our Meal I always order the French onion soup whenever i see it on the menu and to me theirs was just soso. I always love it when the Gruyere is completely melted with a little burn marks. This time, it was simply melted on top. Still it was good. My friend had their House Salad and that was just ok. I had the lamb stew (Navarin d'Agneau Printanier) and my friend had their pasta (Papperdelle Pasta with Summer Vegetables) I love lamb and their stew meat was great. However, that's the really the only thing i touched. It seemed like their veggies came from a frozen veggie bag. Just didnt feel fresh. Also they didnt have Haricot verts but had green beans. Or overgrown haricot verts, regardless, i didnt touch any of the veggies since they really didnt feel fresh. With regards to the Pasta, it was simply too salty and creamy. My friend couldn't finish it. Yes, it's a french place but she doesn't eat much meat and so that's what she got. Regardless, we ended not getting dessert either cause we had been so disappointed... 3 Stars.

Jeff E.

I have been going here for years. This is a great place for a special occasion or just a weeknight when you don't feel like cooking. I have ordered most of the things on the menu, and haven't had a bad meal yet. I especially love their escargot as well as the lamb stew. This is also a great place to grab a quick pre-theater dinner, as it is not far from the theater district, but far enough to avoid the pre-theater crowds. They are always happy to accommodate you if you are in a hurry. Best of all...FREE valet parking!

Claudia D.

We celebrated our wedding anniversary number 31 here. It was perfect. Quiet enough to converse without having to shout, nor fear being overheard. A gypsy jazz combo played in the background and we ha a lovely three course meal, just the two of us. Kiki's provides great value and reliably very good food, service, and atmosphere. I've never been disappointed here and highly recommend Kiki's Bistro.

Gavin H.

Found this place through a coupon deal, but I'm so glad we did! This is a charming and very comfortable French bistro just far enough from the loop that you feel like you are in a "quiet zone" but close enough that it only took us two minutes by car from Neiman Marcus shopping. We got there sort of on the early side on a Saturday night, but it soon filled up, so reservations for prime time slots might be a good idea. Food was delicious: French onion soup was awesome; roast duck was perfect, salads creative and tasty, and crepes a la mode sinful. Wine list awesome. Service will impress: personable, attentive. and very responsive. The owner, Kiki himself, stopped by to say hello and helped make this a great find for us! Valet parking guys are very cool and will take good care of you. Oh, reserving that last star for our next visit here, but I'm pretty sure it is coming soon!

Chris G.

Though I may not be rich in my pockets, today's lunch at Kiki's made me feel like a King. Coq au Vin. This is true ambrosia because it tastes like the chef at Kiki's has been mastering this dish and its velvety sauce for decades. All of the stewed carrots, white asparagus, fingerling potatoes and onion bulbs sit there in a chocolately seduction. Spoon the chicken from the bones and quickly follow by sopping up that dark-meat liquor with a coin of French bread to achieve the desired mouthgasm. If the meal solely consisted of Kiki's Coq au Vin, I'd still credit them 5 stars. But we worked our way toward this dish by starting off with escargot succulent enough for the fussiest diplomat and mussels bathed in a rich, creamy butter sauce that we also fantasized about having as a savory ice cream or mousse. There were shallots or something similar caked onto some of the mussel shells that made for a wonderful licking. I requested a dish of pommes frites out of curiosity and while they're perfectly good crisps, we could have stood for them to be more thickly cut, so as to enjoy a bit more soft potato essence. Thanks to your Yelp reviews, we decided to order a lemon tart but there was no way I could leave today without trying Kiki's chocolate mousse. I must explain that the restaurant was filled mostly with seniors who appeared to be distinguished, happy regulars, so they knew the deal me thinks. But I must've made some pretty X-rated facial expressions and sounds because once I recovered from the pleasurable blackout of tasting the mousse, the looks on their faces were straight out of a laugh scene in the BBC's Keeping Up Appearances sitcom. I've never had scratch whipped cream confident enough to refuse a cane-sugared mask yet compliment such a silken, smooth, cocoa delicious mousse. Listen, this was about a 2 hour lunch because they do no rush you through your meal and take great care in bringing to the table phenomenal cuisine. Don't go here and be in a hurry. And I can kick myself for passing this place up as many times. We waited too long, because here you eat like Gods. See, I've recently been sulking at the closure of my favorite French BYOB named Cotes du Rhone, but Kiki's is like an ultimate sneak-up lover that comes along while you're messy-mascara'd and snotty-nosed... then sensually presses your reset button when you least expect, but need it.

Basel T.

Our first visit to KIKI's Bistro was about three months ago. Since then, I have been there about 6 times. We absolutely love this place. The food is out of this worls, and their wine menu is out of this world. The staff are absolutely awesome and very friendly. I will give this place 10 stars. It is truly one of Chicago's Finest Restaurants. I can't wait to go there again!!

Kris G.

I love it here, clearly. I normally can't afford a place with three $ by its name. In fact, some two $ places can make me sweat if I want to go all out for a meal. However, I got lucky in that a friend canceled a wedding I was supposed to be in (it took me a while to see the positive side of this situation, but I found it--food). No longer having to pay for your bridesmaid dress means you can buy one expensive dinner. That I did and I chose Kiki's and brought my friend along to treat her to a birthday dinner. So, when we walked in it was clearly we were the youngest ones there. It was clear we were the youngest ones there by about 40 years. I've never had a dining experience like that before. So, I understood we weren't the target clientele and was expecting to, perhaps, be treated a little differently and maybe talked down to. Not at all. The exact opposite, in fact. Our waiter (whose name I cannot remember) was so friendly and welcoming, willing to give us all the time we wanted to look over the menu and even gave us tips on how to look fancy without needing to know anything about being a fancy person. My friend and I, we're not fancy peoples. We had a ball--my friend started with a French Onion soup that she gushed over, I had the soft shell crab which I could have eaten four of it was so good. I was afraid that, at this price point, we were going to get the tiny little dishes the size of our appetizers for our meal. It's the common French restaurant stereotype assumption. Again, wrong. My steak frites was quite large and so was my friend's coq au vin. Not so massive that we weren't about to eat it all, though. Oh, and the creme brulee, as others have noted, should be had no matter how stuffed at the end of your meal you think you are. We both still dream about this meal. Heaven!

Chad G.

Duck pate very good. Salmon of the day and lamb stew very good. Mushroom ragout good. Dessert/Pastries amazing.

Kristina K.

Disappointing. Felt rushed from the first second we stepped into the restaurant. Originally our table was in a corner tucked between two larger tables. As I watched two peoples butt cheeks rub against the table, I immediately asked to be moved. Every server was practically sprinting from table to table to kitchen. I often felt a gust of wind as servers flew by with their trays - full of food - inches over my head. For a "romantic" French restaurant, I wasn't too impressed. I still wonder what was the rush for?! Ordered steak frites - not memorable. Asparagus as a side - 4 stalks no seasoning. French onion soup - an atrocity. The cheese wasn't melted, the crouton a sponge-y mush. Kiki's should be embarrassed for this poor quality. There are hundreds of restaurants in Chicago, don't waste your time.

Michael B.

Some friends took us there and it was lovely. A classic, rustic French bistro without the trendiness and hipster attitude or crowd. It was an older, sophisticated crowd, there for a nicely prepared and served meal and great conversation with dear friends. The food is classic French bistro with daily specials. We all had seafood, scallops, soft shell crab, trout and salmon and nothing disappointed. The wait staff are seasoned A list pros and enhance the experience with their sophistication and professionalism. Comfortably classy, intimate and yes romantic without being over the top or in your face. They have a good reasonably priced french wine list to compliment the overall lovely experience.

M C.

A fine French dining experience without the pretention. The ambiance as you walk in gives a rustic, intimate "chateau" feeling and the attentive service allows you to relax and enjoy good food, excellent wine and your company. Our party of four started with fois gras (which, if there was any negative remark about the evening, was this small portion size), house salads with a mustard dressing, and a delicious French onion soup( one of the best I've tried). The entree portions were large and beautifully presented ( and that's saying a lot considering it was steak pommes frites. Another ordered the pappardelle and said it was excellent. The braised beef short rib was tender and flavorful. Although dinner was filling, you cannot visit a place like this without ordering dessert. The two page spread made it hard to choose just one dessert, so our party indulged in three to share. The apple tarte was finely shaved apples wallowing in a rich, thick cinnamon sauce and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The chocolate mousse "cake" was so smooth, it was almost sinful and the chocolate profiteroles were light with the right amount of sweet cream. Overall the meal was more than enjoyable and we left happy and filled. A great restaurant for a romantic evening, small gathering of old friends, special celebration. Parking is street, with valet. Area is quiet on weekend nights. Drinks are (deliciously) strong.

Virginia C.

Imagine our surprise when our server brought my niece a whole second dinner to take away after it was discovered that her request for a doggie bag had been overlooked after her plate had been cleared! In addition to wonderful food this attention to customer service is greatly appreciated.

Lola K P.

I really liked this old-school place with all the comfortable round booths and all the standard French posters adorning the walls. The food was very good, and the both of us who've stayed in Paris spent the rest of the time reminiscing and trading stories of our time there and catching up on girl talk, simply lovely. Service was very nice and solicitous, Kiki was making the rounds and dropped by our table too. Il était très sympa, et nous avons bavardé un peu. What a nice evening.

Linda G.

This is a restaurant where the owner (Kiki) is present. He drives there every day in his little red Citroen. When owners are in their restaurant (and sober) You get a better restaurant. Since I'm a Chicagoan, I ordered two of the four choices of the Foie gras appetizers and then, to heap on more guilt, the Foie de Veau for a main course. (I'll say an extra Rosary or 2). All of the food was excellent. They have professional waiters who can advise on wine selections and food choices. The atmosphere is comfortable, loft-space style - big wooden posts and beams not too airy, and not too fussy. Good Taste. Free Valet Parking.

John G.

What can I say about Kiki's Bistro? This place is just flat out amazing. We went there to celebrate my in-law's 40th wedding anniversary and could not have been more pleased with this fantastic place. The ambiance hits us as soon as we walked in. We were greeted by Kiki himself and told that our table would be ready momentarily. The bartender recommended some red wine that we ultimately would consume three bottles of during the course of appetizers, entrees, and dessert. The French onion soup was great. My oysters & caviar were fabulous, and the escargot seemed to please those who ordered it. It should be said at this point that our waiter was amazing. He provided recommendations for each phase of our meal and was completely down to earth about them. Not snooty in the least. Of note: we noticed that the ladies were served before the gentlemen, from orders taken, to wine glasses filled, this guy had his craft perfectly honed. I wish I could recall his name to give him proper recognition. On to dinner ... three of our party ordered the steak au pauvre (a favorite meal that my father-in-law cooks at home). All were pleasantly surprised and remarked about how good it was. My lamb stew was completely perfect. The lamb practically melted in your mouth. The bowl went back to the kitchen white (I used the remaining bread to sop up every last drop of broth). My mother-in-law's salmon was great too (I got to have a small taste). Dessert was unsurprisingly great as well. Of course, we got a creme brulee (with a layer of chocolate underneath) but we also get a pear & almond tart to go with and we all shared. The brought out a little glass of dessert wine to go with which was a nice little surprise. I'm not a dessert wine type of person, but enjoyed it just because it was such a nice touch. Finally, on a lark, my mother-in-law decided that she wanted a picture with Kiki. He was gracious and obliged. Bottom line, I wish I could give Kiki's Bistro better than 5 stars, but since that's the best I can rate here, I happily give them all five. I recommend this place to anyone who wants to celebrate a milestone, impress a date, or just wants some damn good food, wine & service.

Kate B.

I do not doubt the quality of most of Kiki's menu items but as a vegetarian, this restaurant is a challenge and you will feel stranded. Aside from the desserts (which are quite good), there really aren't too many vegetarian options on the menu. I had an endive salad, one of the limited options, and it did not impress.

Kerry D.

Kiki's is as fabulous as Kiki himself is. I have gone once with students (I am a high school French teacher). Kiki was the person who set up the reservation, helped me coordinate meals, and even worked with me on a prix-fixe selection that would work for my low-income students to be able to experience his restaurant. The service and food were great, and Kiki even came out to converse with my pupils in French. Since it was a prix-fixe meal, I cannot account for what their off the prix-fixe meal grid looks like, though I'm sure it's even better than what we experienced. Wonderful food, and what a great experience for my students. Would definitely return.

Keith A.

Now this is what you'd call old school and classic french food. It wasn't in the real heavy butter and cream style, but this is exactly in that rustic style that makes french food so much fun when done right. I went here a few nights ago to meet up with a group of friends for a burgundy themed wine dinner. We had some out of towners in and needed a proper establishment for the great wines we were going to be drinking. Since there we were 9 strong in the group, we ordered up several different appetizers for everyone to sample. We got the escargot, mussels and shrimp provencal. The escargot was extremely good and the sauce that was with it was great. The shrimp were good, but nowhere near the level of the escargot or the mussels. The mussels were meaty and the broth that they were cooked in was packed with flavor. I ordered up the rack of lamb for my main entree and had it medium rare. The lamb was great for some pieces but they were all varying in how cooked they were going from medium to almost rare with two pieces being medium rare. While the lamb was very good, the ratatouille was easily the best thing on the plate and was just plain good. I finished off with the foie gras pate. Normally I like my foie gras seared but this pate was extremely good and creamier then most pates that I've had. Of course, as always with foie gras, a little goes a long way and not much was needed to be satisfied. The service was extremely helpful and did a great job of letting us go at our own pace. Since there were a lot of bottles out they were also very reasonable with the corkage charged. This is easily a place I would come back to either with a smaller group or with another good sized wine tasting

Christy L.

My date and I headed to Kiki's mid-week during a snow fall and were two of perhaps six patrons in the entire restaurant. The service was very attentive...in a good way. The waitstaff was particularly helpful in recommending wines given that neither my date nor I were particularly well-versed on French varietals. As mentioned by many Yelpers, the space, while much bigger than I was expecting, is super cute and romantic. I always stare at a French menu and nothing jumps out at me; Kiki's was no different. Nevertheless, the food was very good. We split an escargot appetizer, which was tasty, thanks to the heavy garlic. For an entree, I ordered the rack of lamb, which was perfectly prepared. I probably wouldn't return to Kiki's, not because we didn't have great service and food, but because French food in general is just not all that memorable to me. However, if you do like French bistros, definitely try Kiki's as the ambience and service were top-notch, and the food was very well-prepared.

Melody Z.

Kikis offers good French cruisin at reaonable prices. Some of the things we ordered are duck pate and braised frog legs - yummy! Very friendly stuff, and off course including Kiki!

Otto A.

Reservations for 7:30 on a Saturday night, arrived at 7:40 and promptly seated. Waiter was a male of about 55-60, great server, smiled, happy, just enough presence yet not hovering. Wine recommendations great. Food delightful. Go now.

Grace N.

My husband and I had a staycation in the city and the ingredients were almost there for a perfect, romantic weekend: Hottie husband who tolerates the word "staycation"? Check. Long, leisurely day at the Art Institute? Check. Fabulous, gustatory sensation at a french restaurant? Er.....check please? To be fair, the ambiance is like a Monet painting turned to life - warm and ebullient. The service was near perfection. And the appetizer of poached artichoke on toast topped with a poached egg, hollandaise sauce, and truffle shavings was transcendental - like a warm french kiss to the palette. But the dismayed look on my 6-foot-2 husband's face when he saw his teeny-tiny short rib dish (like an adult at a child's tea party), along with my bland Coq au Vin, made the experience sadly mediocre. The prices, however, are anything but mediocre. I guess we'll have to "staycate" in the burbs to have our perfect Coq Au Vin, at Hemmingway's Bistro.

Corey N.

A nice Bistro that has been around forever. Food is good and prices are fair. My only real complaint is that the tables are pretty close together, which can make conversation a challenge on a busy Saturday night. Not a "hip" scene whatsoever -- definitely caters to an older crowd. 3.5 stars

Sue S.

I would give the place an A for atmosphere, which is exceptionally warm and inviting, though the tables tend to be side by side in rows, making it less private than I would have liked for an intimate dining experience. The food was excellent, particularly the mussels in a tomato cream sauce and the rack of lamb. What I found disappointing was the "attitude". I had been to the earlier restaurant the owner, Kiki, owned, known as Le Bordeaux, many times, and to this one as well when it first opened. As it has been some years since we last met, I suppose I could be mistaken, but I am fairly sure Kiki was the one who seated us on this occasion. Whoever it was, the man did not even so much as turn his head to smile, much less say anything, but instead just marched us straight to our table before immediately departing after dumping the menus on the table. Perhaps he is not normally required to perform this service and was feeling a bit rushed, but it still surprised me, Given the reviews on how warm and friendly the owner is to patrons of his restaurant, I have to say that we did not have this experience, though I can recall conversations with him in years past which were quite pleasant. While our waiter was attentive and helpful, particularly with the wine selection, the service felt rushed. The worst moment came when it was time to pay the bill. We asked for the check, and handed him a discount voucher from Restaurant.com as we did so. His response..."Oh, you have one of these things" was said in an obviously disdainful tone and we thought it quite rude. Considering that we each ordered a cocktail, split an appetizer, a salad, had two of their more pricey entrees and also shared a bottle of wine, 2 cappucino's and a dessert, and tipped on the full price w/o the discount I think they more than made their money back on us, coupon or not.

Sarah R.

I've never been to France before, but Kiki (the owner of Kiki's Bistro) sure knows how to bring the culture to Chicago. I had the pleasure of dining here when my French teacher took my best friend and I to enjoy an authentic French meal. We shared the escargot as an appetizer and I literally melted in my seat. The butter and herbs that bathed these snails (which I had never tried before) were to die for. The snails were so delicate yet flavorful. I had the roast chicken, but not only did the chicken wow me, the red cabbage stood out the best. I wish I could order a bucket of that to go. The overall ambiance was great. Very mellow and low lit. The place was packed, but never got very loud at all. When we first arrived there was a bar where patrons could enjoy a drink while waiting for their table. I was super impressed at the free valet service. I haven't been back since then and I don't know if it's still free, but since the area is so secluded like someone mentioned before, it's hard to find parking. I would recommend bringing a small group here, but above all this is a date place. Very romantic, but what about France isn't?

Mick J.

Very nice spot. Works well as a formal but not stuffy French restaurant. Veal was outstanding. Service was good with solid recommendations. Manager made sure everything was good during the night. Waiter was less attentive as night went on but not a big issue. Cheesecake was very good, not too dense and heavy.

Alanna M.

I walked in and the hostess greeted me by saying, "Au Revoir!" PAUSE. Are you kidding? Who doesn't know how to say "Hello" in French? Isn't it just one of those things...every American has a stock of foreign greetings and phrases. We all know what "Hola," "Si," "Oui," and "Aloha" mean. Are you telling me that "Bonjour" isn't a part of that list? Did I really just meet the only girl in America that doesn't know this? Maybe I'm being a bit snobby as I am a French speaker myself...but whatever. After I was done shaking my head and correcting her, I proceeded to my table with my family and had a great time. The food was a bit slow to come out...resulting in some rather cold frog legs. Nonetheless, the food was quality. I already want to go back there. I had the Halibut. YUM. I want to try everything on the menu. I think I really just miss France. I'll be back for date night! I hope they work on their serving time so I can be 100% happy!

Steve M.

I really enjoy this little gem. The chef is Steven Leviton. I would follow this guy anywhere! If you like duck, you're in luck! Moist pink breast with a thin crispy skin. How does he do it?! If you've been to France, you know this is authentic. His fois gras is so luscious. Sea scallops are grilled to perfection. Salads are so crisp and fresh, it's like they came straight from the garden. Bread pudding with caramel sauce is a dream! Portions are generous and prices are terrific! This is the kind of place you become a regular! Can't wait to go back!

David K.

Kiki's Bistro was wonderful! My parents are in town and we were looking for something nice but a little off the beaten track, and my roommate suggested Kiki's. We got there a little early for our reservation, and I was very confused that the restaurant was virtually empty--it was a little odd, but were definitely able to get a table before our reservation. We sat outside, which was really nice--even though Kiki's is downtown, the area around the restaurant is really secluded--sitting outside on a beautiful evening was perfect. We got a lot of food--we started with escargot and tarte de provence. Both were fabulous. I'm definitely not well versed in the way of French food, but I thought everything was great. I went with the Filet Mignon for my entree--it was great; it waas served with fois gras that went amazingly with the steak. I loved it. The sauce was fantastic. All of us were very satisfied with what we had. My mother had Alaskan Halibut that was pretty wonderful too--she let me have a taste. :-) Dessert was a real winner--I had some dish that the waiter couldn't remember the name of (it was the special for the night) which was sweet cheese in pastry with fruit--Oh. Em. Gee. So good. All of the desserts were amazing, and I wish I could've tried everything on the dessert menu. I do think that the service could have been a tad bit better--the waiter was very nice, but a little absent; there were a couple times I wished he would check in on our table and he didn't, but other than that, he was super friendly and attentive (and kind of cute). This was a great meal, and a really cute spot. I don't feel like it's somewhere I will rush back to, but definitely a wonderful place. And definitely outside my normal price range--glad the parents were there!!

Ziran Z.

The food here is great, though not traditional French dishes. But I still recommend it because of the delicious food, warm customer service, and awesome environment. I love the appetizer here!!!!!

Anne M.

I've been to Kiki's twice now, both times for lunch, and it was lovely both times. Country-chic interior, romantic, would be very cozy at night for dinner - which I would love to try sometime! Most recently, I started with their house salad ( mixed greens, endive, tomatoes + balsamic) pretty basic, could have been jazzed up a little - some cheese please? Other veggies? They also serve bread baskets/butter to start. I ordered their pizza du jour, one of the best 'fancy pizzas' I've had. Absolutely delicious, buttery crisp chewy crust, tomato sauce, lots of mushrooms, mozz + goat cheese. Mmmm... so good. We split their lemon tart - perfect dessert, great crust, tangy lemon filling, served with fresh whipped cream + strawberries. Very yummy lunch, thanks Kiki.

Dirk S.

Ok food and services, but pricy for what you get. Bit old fashioned interior. There are better places to go to

Saira K.

Lovely place, but the food was just all right. I had foie gras, which was more of a pate than the foie gras I'm used to. I also had moules, which were good. The dessert was nice.

Nicki W.

Very few times am I head over heels in love with a restaurant and Kiki's will be added to the likes of Joe's Stone Crab in my category of pure amazingness. When you hear about Chicago's restaurant gems, this is what they're talking about. Right as you walk into the restaurant, warmth hits you as Kiki the owner greets regulars with hugs and kisses asking about the family. It seems that just about everyone knew Kiki and that speaks volumes. For an establishment to have been around for 40 years and still be bustling on a Tuesday night, I give major props. Kiki's would work very well for family gatherings, special events and much more. My entertaining dining buddy for the night and myself were the youngest people in the room by at least 20 years but I was completely fine with that. The patrons themselves are what makes the atmosphere what it is. Wealthy older River North locals pulling up in their luxury vehicles adorned in suits coming straight from the office to meet their wives and their friends. This is a place where the Scotch and Wine flow like the salmon of Capistrano. We were sat in a cute little booth in the corner perfect for a date. I feel I need to get right down to the food, because it was truly perfect. For appetizers, we started with the Duck Ravioli as well as the Red Beet Salad. First off, the sauce in that Duck Ravioli was to die for and we continued to dip our bread in there. The salad had the perfect combination of sweet and salty and it was very enjoyable. For the Entrees, we had the Steak Au Poivre, 12oz New York Strip Steak with cracked peppercorns served with assorted vegetables (carrots and potatoes). It was so juicy and melted in my mouth but the only complaint I do have is the fact that the last taste I had in my mouth was the pepper when it should have been the steak. Case in point, the pepper was a bit overpowering. But still outstanding and cooked to Medium Rare perfection! We also had the Roasted Pork Tenderloin served with Polenta, Braised Red Cabbage, Green Beans, Carrots and Turnips. The same Calvados sauce which was served with the steak also came with this. The presentation on this dish was especially enticing. They had the pork laid out in a fan over the cabbage. You NEED to combine the cabbage, polenta and pork together because the flavors all compliment each other!! Fabulous. In my world, a dinner is not complete without dessert and their dessert list did not let me down. We ordered the Blueberry Bread Pudding (so sweet and moist), as well as the Profiteroles Au Chocolate (wow). We were so stuffed, but we just kept on eating because we couldn't let all of these wonderful treats go to waste. All in all, if you haven't heard of Kiki's, don't waste the time and shame yourself, just call up and make a reservation ASAP. I've been wow'd tonight and I wont stop talking about it for awhile!

summer c.

We had a fantastic French meal here and loved the wine and service. It does cater to an older crowd, which means you can benefit from classic style dining. But if your are looking to meet young people in the city, that's not what's going on here. There is no fusion menu items...just the good old school french homestyle. I'm into it.

Melanie S.

I've been to Kiki's Bistro many, many times. My old firm held their annual holiday party there for 4 years in a row, and I had been for dinner on several other occasions. You know you're in the right place when you see the darling red Citroën parked in front of the restaurant, which offers free valet, btw, an unheard of concept in downtown Chicago. Last night, I met a newly-brunette Yelper (who looks fantastic as a chestnut-haired beauty, for the record) for dinner. We had tossed around a few other places but I wanted to stay fairly close to the Brown line out of convenience, and knowing her predilection for French food, I suggested Kiki's. She's easygoing, so we settled on Kiki's. To be honest, I was a little disappointed. I've had a lot of wonderful meals here, but this one fell a little short. I arrived a few minutes early, so I sat at the bar and ordered a glass of Bordeaux, which was excellent. She arrived and we were shown to our table. I started with a Salade Lyonnaise, which is one of my favorite salads. While this was good (how can you go wrong with a warm poached egg and lardons?), it wasn't nearly as good as it could have been. For my entree I ordered a rack of lamb, which came with ratatouille, mashed potatoes, and haricots verts. The lamb was overcooked and a little tough. The sides were very good, however. My dc ordered the roasted chicken, but she didn't eat very much, so I'm not sure if she enjoyed it. It could have been that we were just chatty and she didn't get a chance. Which leads me to the service. Since we were talking quite a bit, we had several moments where we weren't eating. The bussers and servers interpreted that as we were done with our entrees and constantly kept coming over to clear our plates. It got annoying to have to keep saying we weren't done. We were asked so many times, we just gave up and let them take our plates. Moving on to dessert. I knew from past visits that Kiki's has crème caramel on their menu, so I knew ahead of time that that was going to be my selection. There isn't a French bistro that doesn't have crème brûlée on their menu, but you'd be hard-pressed to find many that have crème caramel. This was creamy and sweet, and served with a puddle of caramel sauce and fresh berries. Simply sinful. We settled our check and moved to the bar area to meet a friend for another glass of wine. By then, we were the only people in the bar area and there wasn't a bartender. No worries, Kiki himself came over and poured us some wine. Conversation flowed and wine was drunk. We all wanted another glass but no one ever came over and asked us. You'd sell a lot more wine if you asked if your guests would like another round. That was ironic to me because when I was waiting for my guest, I heard Kiki remark how slow business had been lately. Again, your check average would rise if you kept a bit of a closer eye on your guests. We never were offered a second round so we just ended up deciding to leave since I have copious bottles of red wine at my house, and then it became a problem trying to get someone to close out our bar tab. So Kiki's get 3.5 stars. I'll definitely go back to Kiki's in the future, but since my experience was lacking, it may be awhile before I go back.

Dodge S.

My inlaws were visiting from out of town and we picked Kiki's from the Urban Spoon app on somebody's iPhone. Had a Zipcar that afternoon and used it to drive up Franklin Street for valet service and dinner for a party of four. We really enjoyed this place. First of all we are in love with all things French, so we ordered wine and appetizers, and took our time to enjoy the evening. There were so many things going on that night. I remember some wonderful tart pastries, an amazing ratatouille, sharing a bite from each other's plate, etc. Definitely recommended for a great night out. Check out the vintage car sitting out front, the pastoral scenes painted as wall murals, the authentic decor, and superior service from the waiter, coat check, and valet. A complete package to impress your relatives.

Al B.

Been here on a few occasions now and really like it. The food is excellent and service great, friendly and efficient. What really strikes me though is how peaceful it is here. Chicago is full of noisy restaurants, with overly loud music or tvs, Kikis is peaceful without being awkwardly quiet. Try the duck confit or the coq au vin, really good outside France!

Amy L.

A good place if you are looking for A LOT of French food. By A LOT I mean the quantity--the food portion they serve there is almost twice as large as other French restaurants I have ever been to. In general, it is a good place as long as you have a big appetite.

Carolyn L.

For Bastille Day this summer, I had the pleasure of attending the festivities at Kiki's Bistro in Chicago. Upon arriving at the restaurant on 900 N Franklin, I was greeted with Kiki's 2CV classic French voiture in front of the place. In the street next door, there was a street fest with a French singer in the style of Edith Piaf accompanied by an accordion and base player. I wandered around to find my French and Francophile friends and realized that there were many people there that I had never seen at any of the French In Chicago meetings or FACC cocktail hours! I enjoyed a couple glasses of some sparkling rosé and also watched a couple of street performers who played with fire! It was very reminiscent of the teenagers who play with fire sticks on the Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower in the summer evenings. The restaurant itself was founded by Kiki (Georges Kiki Cuisance). He is a native of Eastern France and has been in the restaurant business for 50+ years. He even worked at the Closerie des Lilas in Paris (Montparnasse area) which was frequented by Hemingway. In the 1960s, he came to Chicago as the sommelier for Maxim's de Chicago. He also opened Le Bordeaux restaurant on both Madison and Michigan before eventually moving north to Kiki's Bistro. I didn't get to taste the food this time but I'm sure I'll be back to get some fine French fare! Vive la France!

mary j.

This place is phenomenal! One piece of advice, make sure you have reservations

Jiyoun B.

Kiki's can do French food. Too bad their servers think that means they can act French too. So rude. The food was good but it just doesn't justify their lack of service. I want to go to a "nice" restaurant and have a "nice" experience. This place kept coming up in the list of French restaurants but we never went back.

Phil P.

My wife and I returned here for our anniversary dinner. The restaurant is filled with French posters and is warm and inviting. Our server was both friendly and professional, and recommended good whites for us. I thought I'd try the cream of cauliflower soup and it did not disappoint. For dinner my wife had steak with peppercorn, which gave it a sharp flavor, and she couldn't stop eating the frites. I had lamb chops with mashed potatoes which were excellent. Usually lamb chops are small and appear to have very little meat but not these! We closed by splitting profiteroles. We were not rushed at all and thoroughly enjoyed our first night out in a long time. We enjoy dining here because it is authentically French, and just serves good food in a classy but friendly atmosphere.

Jenny B.

I come here often It is a very good place, good food service beautiful everything hit the spot, will keep come back.

Tiff W.

We came to Kiki's Bistro for a pre-Christmas dinner with my boyfriend's parents and as soon as I walked in, I was in love. The floating candles, Kiki walking people to their tables, the giant magnum bottles of champagne decorating the interior...I was smitten. And when I think about French food, I have to compare everything to Bistro Campagne up in Lincoln Square, which is about half of the size of Kiki's. The inside of Kiki's is surprisingly big when you walk in, and the restaurant was crowded for a random Wednesday night. I was slightly disappointed by the food. Having heard so many great things about Kiki's from friends & coworkers, I was expecting the food to be amazing, but throughout the meal, I kept thinking "If you think Kiki's is good, just wait until you try Bistro Campagne!" My Magret de Canard was tasty, but unremarkable. I didn't get an appetizer, but everyone at our table who got the Soupe A L'Oignon Gratinee thought that it was overly salty. Kiki's was good and I'm glad I tried it out, but I'd definitely pick Bistro Campagne over Kiki's for the food.

Alex P.

ZERO. IF I COULD GIVE NEGATIVE STARS I WOULD!!!! Do not go to this restaurant. the food is horrible the staff is even worse. Stuck up snobby servers, with Food not fit for a fast food restaurant. Asking for a drink is like asking for some huge favor, the food sucks, the attitude even worse. Ive eaten at many french places and this takes the cake as the worst!!!! Do not waist your time or your money at this place! I could supply a long list of other individuals that agree 100% and have given it multiple chances. HORRIBLE! DO NOT GO!

Jen N.

We had a fantastic server who recommended different dishes. The sea bass is delicious, as are the appetizers. I tried the boeuf bourguignon, my first time having it and honestly I did not care for it because the meat was fatty and I did not like the large pearl onions in it, but the flavor was great and very rich. If you have dessert, try to chocolate mousse. The food here is lovely, the ambiance nice, and I will definitely be back again.

David R.

I have read that this restaurant led the "revitalization" of River North back in the early 1990's. And it sure feels like it, too. There was a certain staleness to the entire experience. The staff were aloof, the food plain and uninspired, the dining room uncomfortably hushed, and the crowd a lot older than I expected for the area. My friend and I were probably the youngest people in there by a couple of decades. The beet salad was disappointing--a few greens, bland green beans, chopped walnuts, and beet slices that could have come from a can. There was supposed to be a hazelnut dressing but I didn't see or taste anything like that. Thankfully, the mushroom ragout was amazing--so savory and flavorful. I could eat a bowl of this with some crusty bread for several meals per week. Well, in the wintertime anyway. Frankly, with fall around the corner...it's ALMOST enough to entice me back. For the entree, I violated a cardinal tenet of dining out (sorry, Penny) and ordered the poulet roti (roasted chicken). It tasted fine, just slightly on the bland side, but the meat was dry. I tried my friend's steak frites, but that wasn't any better. I did like the frites though. Dessert was another push. I tried the lemon tart--again, boring and plain--but I should have gone for the warm blueberry bread pudding. Maybe I'll sneak in here one night near closing just for dessert and order that. I can't see returning for dinner though: except for the mushroom ragout, the food is all comme ci, comme ca. Chicago is blessed with several great French restaurants, but unfortunately Kiki's is not among them.

Caroline A.

Classic French cuisine is probably my favorite type of food. Sure, it's not as adventurous as other restaurants in the city, but it's delicious, consistent and if they do it right, I'm going to love it. My three best friends from high school and I had a mini-reunion dinner here. The atmosphere is... well, that of a classic French bistro. It is rustic, charming and terribly romantic. This is definitely an ideal date spot. You'll notice that most of the patrons here are 50-plus in terms of age. There are no trendy designer jeans with striped shirts here... but ultra classy gentlemen with their equally elegant significant others. It was really sweet to watch the older couples as I was waiting for my friends. It was lovely. The menu is traditional, and everything we had was perfect. I had the goat cheese salad, and as another yelper mentioned, it was perfectly dressed. For my main course, I had the duck... because I love duck. The wild rice was a little bland, but the braised cabbage was delicious and went very nicely with the duck. J-Money had the lamb, and she said it was a little over seasoned, but very good. For dessert, the four of us split an order of Creme Brulee and the Bluberry Bread Pudding. The Creme Brulee had a chocolate bottom that was a very nice surprise. It was very good... but I still love the one at RL better. The Blueberry Bread Pudding is perfect for those who want a dessert that is not overly sweet. The four of us sat and dined for about 2.5 hours. And nobody bothered us. Nobody rushed us. It was loads of fun :) Free valet too. Yay.

Brendan M.

This place is great. Love the steak. Excellent service.

Michael E.

Though I've had friends introduce me to many places in the city, Kiki's was one that no one mentioned. This lovely French bistro located in Near North Side is tucked away in an old building that sits quietly by the rumbling Brown line. To begin, there is complementary valet, which in a big value due to the parking debacle our Mayor has put us in. As we entered, we were greeted by George......oops, I meant Kiki. This establishment has been at this location for 19 years, but Kiki's was actually located in the Loop for 20 years prior to that and folks in this restaurant were much older, but don't let that deter you younger folks from considering trying this restaurant. Zac was our server and did an excellent job of making recommendations. We started out with a goat cheese salad and escargot. Zac provided some advice on our entrees and indicated that the steak and duck were excellent, so we took his advice and ordered them which I'm glad we did as they were very good. He also helped pair a nice wine with our meal. Finally, we topped off the meal with dessert.....a profiterole (I have Carol K to thank for turning me onto this lovely dessert) and an egg custard which were perfect. Now I would have given this establishment 5 stars, but we found that the busboys were constantly coming over to try and clean off our plates when in fact they were still half full with food. At these prices, meals are more leisurely and the place was not packed, so we were taking our time, but it is annoying to keep telling the bus boys "no, we are not done yet." A small little tweak in service will get them up to 5 stars with me if it is fixed the next time I partronized this location. This is a perfect place for a perfect French meal in the city if I ever did experience one and you should too.

Luis E.

Best French Rest in Chicago!!!!

Stephanie N.

If you love French Food then Kiki's is the place to go. I truly love it here and honestly I am only giving it four stars because of Kiki himself. If he wants patrons then he needs to be nicer. However, the food is truly authentic and the wait staff are so kind and accommodating. Also, their champagne / wine selection is outstanding.

Tim B.

Really enjoyed Kiki's and it may very well become our favorite little local haunt. As expected, service, food & ambience were every bit of a french bistro. Succulent duck, crisp frites (and haricot verts) and one of the best Beef bourguignon we have had stateside. The lighting was perfect the noise levels subdued allowing for undistracted conversation. Th emenu as you could guess is french, good specials, solid wine list and again great service

Mark G.

You have to love the atmosphere in this beautifully lit and decorated restaurant. Service couldn't be better and there specials are all that you would expect from a French restaurant. Unfortunately, the chef has decided to use no salt at all. There is a salt shaker on the table and even my wife that never adds salt to anything found that in order to find the familiar French flavors that salt was required. Very romantic and great service are reasons why it has lasted for so long.

Dennis S.

Classic French bistro fare. Kiki's continues to fill the "classic not creative" niche for us. Some of their food can be terrific, some can be boring, but the tradition French bistro items are still prepared and presented the way they would be in France. The wine list has plenty of reasonably priced wines. We picked the pricier of their two Bordeaux Blancs, which was unusually tame for a white from Bordeaux. But ok. Our starters were awesome - I had mussels, the best I've had in Chicago over the last three years. My wife had a fricassée of mushrooms, strongly soaked in a Madeira wine sauce. It was excellent - my appetizer choice for our next visit. We both had the hanger steak with pommes frites - decent steak and a generous serving of great pommes frites. Dessert was terrible - a lemon tart with barely a taste of lemon and chocolate mousse with barely a taste of chocolate. If it doesn't sound exciting - after the appetizers, it wasn't. But Kiki's is completely predictable, with classic unchanging French bistro menu choices (far more choices than you'll get in a bistro in France). It's a very pleasant setting with good attentive service and reasonable prices. Dependable French comfort food. That's why I still give it four stars. Although it would be nice if they did something about the desserts. They don't need to be that bland.

Tim H.

I've been to Kiki's twice and both visits have been delightful. Kiki's is what it says it is: an old fashioned French bistro. It serves all the standards, and it does them as well as anyone in town. Service is great, cordial, friendly, and professional. Pricewise, it's comparable to other restaurants of its type. They do, however, over a limited early bird fixed price menu if you order before 6.30. The room is very warm and inviting, although it's location is kind of off the beaten path. Parking isn't too bad here. I think that free parking can often be found around this neighborhood. Note too that even at some of the nearby metered locations, parkers don't need to feed the Daleys (that is, the parking kiosks that will be with us for the next 75 years thanks to a very poor decision made by the last mayor of Chicago) after 6.00PM.

renee k.

This is old school French, not froufrou, and you can have a conversation without yelling. Kiki's is so romantic around the holidays -- the glass globes w/candles glowing, the pink cloths and greenery on the table. We've enjoyed many meals here. The wait staff is excellent. They don't hover, but they're there when you need them. The salmon special is always delicious, somehow, slightly different every time. You can't go wrong with the steak frites. Almost everything on the menu is delicious. The only miss is the liver which was tough and accompanied by way too sweet red cabbage. Kiki strolls the room to make sure everything is going smoothly.

Pontip M.

My friend and I were easily among the youngest people there by a good 20+ years. That's not a here nor there as far as stars are concerned but this it's a place my friends would come back to for a fun night out. I am nearly 90% sure the duck pate wasnt even made in-house which was dissapointing. I love love love duck pate and this tasted a little like the fridge. I will however say the steak part of my Steak Frites was FANTASTIC! So that was the high point. But out of 4 courses it's just not enough to get me back in there.

Julia R.

My husband-to-be and I had searched high-and-low and in-and-out of Chicago for the right atmosphere, with the right food, for the right price, for our event. And we found it by returning to this dear spot of mine. Kiki's Bistro hosted my wedding's reception on October 9th. I've been a regular customer at Kiki's since it opened its doors 20 some years ago. We've celebrated every special event in our family there. I never envisioned hosting all my beloved friends and family in that space until I actually sat over my favorite dish (the duck), paired with my favorite Bordeaux, and considered it. Suddenly everything started to fall in to place. Its warm, welcoming feel lent itself naturally to exactly the experience I wanted to give our guests. And it's food: not your standard banquet chicken. And its wine list: fantastic! So we approached Kiki and he accepted our date and we took it from there. Kiki's only hosts special events on Sunday nights, when they'd normally be closed. And to do so, you have to give your word you'll make his minimum tab, which we knew we'd easily reach hosting 130-140 guests that night. But Kiki is an ancient Frenchman. He doesn't have an event planner or a normal routine for these sorts of things (in his words - he only opens on Sunday nights 1-2 times a year) so we literally typed up our own contract and if we needed to reach him, we drove over to see him in person. Kiki does not check his e-mail account to regularly these days. These experiences leading up to the day of the reception caused me a huge amount of anxiety. I actually had to put my groom up to the task of working with Kiki for all our needs and desires the night of. He patiently took up the challenge and did the best he could. And he did a good job because the day we got married, Kiki had the restaurant staffed and opened for us. He was waiting for our friends to decorate. The kitchen was prepared to cook our menu. And the sound system played our iPod. Mind you: I didn't actually believe any of this would be the case until the morning I was planning to get hitched. So there's that. If you're a bride willing to marry on a Sunday night, and you pick Kiki's, prepare yourself. It's quite a rollercoaster of uncertainty! But our reception was perfect. It was what we wanted. We hosted our loved ones by showing them how much we appreciated them being there. We did this through attentive service, endless pours of good wine, and delicious made-to-order meals. We left full of happiness and contentment. And we appreciate all the hard work the staff did to pull it all off for us. And to wrap this up: if you're on Yelp to find a quaint spot for dinner, where there's no scene to contend with; just a friendly waiter with a rustic French menu to share with you head out to Kiki's Bistro. Order the duck and enjoy every bite for me.

Elle M.

Good, not great. Had Christmas Eve dinner here with my family and while nobody complained, I don't think anyone raved either. The foie gras was good (hard to screw that up), but the presentation was a little lacking. The venison was fine, but not delicious. The apple tart was okay too. I do love the atmosphere though. Especially the way it was decorated for the holidays. Really homey and beautiful. I guess I was just hoping to take a bite of something and say, "Oh, God that's great." And I didn't.

Aloysius T.

I always wanted to get better acquainted with French food, but generally the cost has been a bit prohibitive. Kiki's is definitely at a good price point and the food is approachable and not snooty whatsoever. Wine by the glass: They have a huge book of French wine as you would expect from a French restaurant. Their selection of wine by the glass was considerably less (~20 wines -10 red - 10 white). I selected a fantastic 07' Rhone wine. I can go out on a limb and assume all the wines by the glass were chosen cuz they are affordable and delicious. The Rhone was exactly how I imagined a Southern Rhone would be just a little bit lighter. They have a fantastic early dinner special (5-6:30pm), which is perfect for a post work dinner, although unfortunately it brings in an expected "older" clientele. That didn't stop me from talking about all kinds of raunchy things. I think they were kinda disgusted by some of the things I was saying; but such is the audacity of youth. The pricing is fantastic at $27.50 for 3 courses. The menu options are a bit underwhelming for entrees. Steak, roasted chicken, salmon, or lamb stew. Entree: The lamb stew was perfectly tender and not too heavy. Paired very well with my wine; though maybe a heartier Bordeaux woulda been even better. The chicken was also cooked perfectly and came with an ample serving of fries. Apps: We ordered beet salad, and mussels. The mussels were fantastic. The broth buttery and rich. And the mussels themselves, soft and fresh. The beet salad was a good beet salad, but nothing to write home about. Dessert: We got the homemade ice cream/sorbet and chocolate mousse. The mousse was okay, but the ice cream and sorbet were fantastic. Never woulda thought a French place would bother to make their own ice cream Service: Was impeccably courteous and kind. Kiki is a very hospitable man. Ambience: Hmmm, i was hoping to be transformed to a Parisian bistro; but didn't quite feel it. A little Sous Le Ciel de Paris on the speakers couldn't. Overall a very pleasant experience, the early dinner special is a great deal; but i feel the real promise in this restaurant is their daily specials. Not easy to find dover sole or beef bourgogne in this city.

Aurore L.

Forget turkey, stuffing and 4th Thursday of November: what about a wine-induced nap?!?!? Dunno why - but sounds much more appealing to me.... Every year, every THIRD Thursday of November French drunkards gather all around the world (with a few of their international friends) to celebrate the Beaujolais Nouveau, New Beaujolais, kinda crappy primeur wine that we use to flood the world with just before the Holidays. It's traditionally released at midnight in France, and hilarity, bad dreams and morning-after hungover follow. This last Thursday around 1pm I was not ready yet for a glass of wine (shhh....I am being PC here....) but was desperately craving the next best thing: a strong after lunch espresso. I dragged my partner to Kiki's, asked him en français if we could have a tiny cup of joe to kick up our neurons, and settled at the bar. Witching brew swallowed in record time. Perked up for the afternoon. Merci, patron!

Michael F.

We had 4 dishes: For beginning the French onion soup and Smooth Duck Liver Paté which were ok. And for the main dishes we ordered Magret de Canard (a duck confit) and a Provencale Roast Veal Chop. The duck was pretty good, though nothing remarkable. The veal chop was way more problematic - the meat was tasteless and the crumbs crust was soaked in burnt butter. The service is very good a quick.

Khadijah L.

Cute parisian cafe tucked a little away from the noisy River North area, it's almost in Old Town. This place looks really cute with the wood floors and panels, the owners try really hard to please their patrons. Service was prompt. The food was good also, but I don't have anything particularly special to say about it. The lamb stew was good and the mussels, too. What I liked most was the dessert (lemon slice), that was pretty amazing. What I did not like about the restaurant is how surprisingly noisy it was inside. The tables were far enough apart, and the light was low and everything looks cozy, but it sounds like a hectic market, and I'm not quite sure how all the noise seems to be amplified. I looked around and on average most of the patrons here look like they were 40 or older. Definitely a lot of older guests... so it's not loud like rowdy or anything. I like the food, but it wasn't anything special. The place is cute but attracts a lot of older people. Would I come here again? Only if I were on a secretive dinner date and wanted to avoid being seen by people I know.

Trixy D.

My husbands boss recommended this place, and it is by FAR one of the nicest restaurants I have ever been to. Our Steak Frites and Bef Bourguignon were amazing. The Profiteroles (small cream puffs with ice cream inside) for dessert, French onion soup, crab cakes....everything was fabulous. The man next to us ordered their Tuesday night special, a fish, and it was AMAZING the way they removed the entire bones from the fish right there at the table. Two entrees, two appetizers, dessert, and three drinks for around $100. They had a little live quartet near the bar up front, but you could not enjoy that any further into the restaurant, which was a little disappointing. It is definitely fine dining and they are a little pretentious, but they are professional servers, and it is a Monet Induced daydream of France in the city, so we expected nothing less.

Taryn T.

Located just outside of the hustle and bustle of River North, Kiki's Bistro has a very friendly, intimate atmosphere and French food that tastes light and healthy rather than heavy on the butter. I had the poulet roti (roasted chicken) and finished with the lemon tart with raspberry sauce. The chicken was lean and not oversaturated in seasoning; the lemon tart was just enough for two people to split, though I think I'll order something with chocolate next time. Portions are meant to sate rather than stuff you. Because the lighting is dim and the vibe is quiet, this would be a fantastic date spot. Just be sure to make a reservation - this place was packed on a Monday night with what looked like a loyal clientele.

Brian P.

I had a coq a vin. It's hard to mess these things up. I believe the chicken was pretty good--they were able to achieve a certain smokiness from a proper wine deglaze. More than enough chicken to take home and eat for lunch the next day. How fun! Would love to go back--the wine was pretty great as well. wines are a big part of this restaurant as it should be--it's french. they have a little wine station in the middle of the dining room. It's in a little area that seems a little under-loved which makes this place great. I love that it's a little french outpost complete, as i believe it's a vintage citroen car rally point. it really is quite quaint. Great for: romantic dinner corporate event (if you work for a small law firm, or design shop, or something with a more casual yet professional atmosphere) friends Not great for: quick bite Ex'es seen and be seen

Rachel T.

So I have been to Kiki's a handful of times and mostly for lunch as this is a hot spot for our office. The service is impeccable and they truly adore their customers. The only problem I have when I go here is the fact I can never decide what to order! I recently ordered the escargot and it was delicious, not overly garlic- just right! Then I had the scallops, always a safe order here, they were prepared to perfection. Anything you order from there is always delicious, from the soups all the way to dessert. This would be a good date spot as not too many people (my age) know about it. They have a ton of hanging bulbs filled with tea lights that turn the dining room into quote a romantic spot. You can never lose with Kiki's.

Karen P.

My husband and I have dined at KiiKi's several times over the years and the business has truly grown. I made the reservation for eight, two months ago. I called to confirm two days before (never call during the dinner hour rush.)around 4 pm. I said it was a birthday party for my daughter's 28th birthday and she wanted French Bistro country food. We all ordered different items. The duck breast/leg confit appeared awesome and I wish I had ordered it. I ordered the filet with Bearnaise and fresh vegetables. My filet was supposed be be Medium but came charred well. My daughter's boyfriend had exactly the same problem. I had taken one bite and it was so well done and dry I could barely swallow it. When I questioned the waiter, the boyfriend also said he had the same problem. (My husband NEVER sends anything back and just said, "we will not come back".)So, hubbie was not happy with me but hey, it was my steak and was not properly prepared. But, I love this place so much and they did it right the second time for me and the BF. The waiter was very accommodating. My other daughter ordered the peppercorn steak which was really good, too. The desserts were delicious! I had the chocolate mousse, my husband ordered the creme caramel (similar to flan), my daughter ordered the blueberry bread pudding, which was so decadent! My other daughter ordered the chocolate mousse cake, which she could not finish. My 3rd daughter ordered the chocolate mousse and we both agreed we probably should have split it! My son ordered the profiteroles and said they tasted freshly made and were the best he has had. He always orders this dessert so they must be good! All in all, the service was good, the food was memorable but not outstanding, the desserts were memorable. The noise level, however, is ridiculous so intimate dining is not to be enjoyed on a weekend evening. I wanted to order Bouillabaise fish soup but the waiter said they switched it to a special and it is usually on a Thursday or Friday evening. One more note is that there is a decent wine list. We ordered a red wine from the Champagne region. It was very good but I did not see the price of the bottle. It was French, red and from that region. Had the steaks been prepared properly, the Bearnaise sauce refined, (it tasted like warm mayonnaise. Where was the tarragon flavor?), and the noise level ridiculous!, I would have given it 5 stars! We will return, maybe on a week night to savor the atmosphere, which is quite nice. Perhaps, I will call ahead and ask when they are serving Cassoullet or Bouillabaise.

Carolynne M.

Here is the breakdown of what my experience was like: AMBIANCE/ATMOSPHERE: Tucked away in a rather industrial section of North Franklin street, you walk in to a very cozy dining room with a wood beam ceiling, French Country decor, low lighting and wide plank wood floors. Decor was very well done and appropriate for the style of this restaurant. Too quiet though, some soft background music would have been nice. CLIENTELE: Maybe we were here just too early in the evening but you might want to take note if you are under 40 years old. This was Elder Haven, kids, lots of the grey-haired set here. Many of these folks gave the impression of being regulars. SERVICE: Adequate, except when I ordered the salmon entree and it came out cold in a mixed salad style, I was surprised to say the least. Then my friend Renee took a bite and said "I think you got the chicken dish instead of salmon", and so it was. The correct dish came out with little wait but I felt guilty that now the unwanted dish was going to go right in the garbage. What a waste. Drink and bread refills were continuous and there was never a wait for plates to be cleared or our waiter to appear between courses. FOOD: Hands down the best French Onion soup in Chicago. Rich, complex and loaded with cheese, my mouth is watering as I type this remembering how good it was. As good French Onion is tough to come by in this town, this was a welcome surprise. My one bite of the Chicken salad entree had cool crisp vegetables mixed with a nice, moist warm chicken. My salmon was perfectly cooked, with somewhat salty vegetables in a brown sauce. The chocolate mousse for dessert was divine - so light and fluffy and not too sweet. My only one true complaint is the restaurants logo. It really needs an update badly. Looking at the sign from the street one might almost think this was some kind of lunch room, it is very plasticky and 1980's looking. The Citroen car is a cute idea, but come on - let's swank it up people! This is a fancy French restaurant - your logo should represent that and not be a handdrawn cartoon. OK, sorry, rant over. Anyway, definitely go for the food. You wont be disappointed.

Priya S.

Great classic style French food! and a VERY cute ambience! We went there for my birthday and it was awesome! I had the salmon stew and it was delicious! I also had the beet salad and that was good as well.

P S.

What do you get when you spiff up a happy pair, give them a Friday night open skate and make the cuisine requisite French? You get that happy pair to Kiki's Bistro and then you let the evening take its course! Greeted warmly, we sat at the bar for a quick round before our reservation time. When it was time to sit, we were shown to a lovely, quiet and intimate corner banquette seat. Wine list opened, appetizers ordered, attire duly appreciated. The kumomoto oysters (six to an order) arrived, one order for each of us, pre-adorned with a few types of roe and a lemon in the middle. Perfectly shucked, slurped and demolished - delicious! Next up, the salads. My date's Lyonnaise (amazingly warm poached egg and bacon lardons - perfection) and my beet, or "dirt cherry" as he charmingly calls them, salad was light and had the right amount of salad-to-beet ratio. Bottle of delectable red ordered, happily taking in the warmth of the room and each other, we anticipated our entrees. Our mains were, as predicted by a neighboring table, things we would dream of in the coming days. My duck was cooked to perfection and accompanied by a savory en glaze, slightly overcooked string beans (which I ate anyway, happily), a fantastic rice pilaf and rich, sweet stewed red cabbage. My date's lamb chops were excellently cooked and succulent however he was a little let down by the pedestrian mashed potatoes. Our sides of mushrooms (at least a few different types, buttery and meaty) and sauteed spinach rounded everything out fully. As we waited on desserts of creme caramel and a lemon tart, a patron intercepted Kiki himself on his way around the room, congratulating the restaurant on 40 years and mentioning that he and his wife had been dining there for 17 of them. My heart was warmed, what an ideal sign that they do things right. Yes, the crowd is an older one and it's not crazy lively or bumping even on a Saturday night, but it was a perfect place in time.

Steve M.

This place is fantastic! From the vintage Citroen fleet parked out front to the fun crowd watching to the amazing wine list to the even more amazing FOOD! I had escargot, and steak frites which were RIDIC! The escargot came in a classic escargot bowl/dish with garlic and parsley. The steak frites were simple, but so so so delicious. Often times, I find that the simple, well executed meal is way more satisfying than the confused, "trying to be innovative" meal that tries too hard. Don't get me wrong -- there's definitely room (in my belly!) for innovation. It's just that Kiki's brings it all home to Chicago with style and deliciousness on a 5-star level. Oui!

T M.

Im surprised I have not reviewed Kiki's before. I have dined here a lot. My wife and I celebrated Valentines, and once again Kiki's did a wonderful job. The service from the free valet, coat check, hostess, bartender, waiter, etc was as usual seamless and top notch. This restaurant makes you feel like part of the family. Kiki always says hi and is intensely involved. Wether you go for a nice lunch, romantic dinner, or one of the celebrations they have you will not be disappointed! We enjoyed an elegant oyster and caviar appetizer, cassoulet, and veal chop entree's all superb. They had a harpist also last night that was a nice touch. The wine list is also very nice with a great by the glass selection. Thanks for all the memories Kiki's!

Andrea K.

After my beloved Brasserie Jo closed, I have been searching for a Frech bistro to replace it. I made the trip from the suburbs to try Kiki's Saturday night after reading positive reviews on Yelp. I like the decor of the restaurant, it is cozy with the overhead lamps. We had reservations at 7:30 and showed up on time. There were several tables open on our arrival but for some unknown reason we had to wait several minutes to be seated in one of the empty tables even though there were three hostesses. It was a little odd but, OK. We were seated in the front corner which was a nice location. So far so good. We decided to try the frog leg appetizer in a white wine sauce which was highlighted on the menu. Bad choice. The sauce was so loaded with so much garlic it was indelible, and the texture of the legs were rubbery. Not sure how fresh they were. We were disappointed at this point but still looking forward to the entrees hoping that Kiki's would redeem itself. My boyfriend ordered the Mardi Gras jambalaya and I ordered the coq au vin. The jambalaya was not authentic and was average to bland - he thought it tasted like it came from a can. My coq au vin was better. The chicken was tender but the dish was a little on the bland side. It needed more of the bacon/lardon flavor. So we moved on to desserts. The lemon tart I had was very good, and suggest if you go there. The profiteroles were just Ok. The chocolate sauce was underwhelming. I am glad we tried Kiki's but will not be going back. My search for the city's best coq au vin will have to go on.

Sara F.

So I absolutely LOVED the atmosphere here. It feels like you step right into a little Paris bistro. I wanted to absolutely fall in love with this place, but there were a few kinks. Our waiter was super friendly, but really slow. There is something to lingering over a long dinner talking and drinking late into the night, but I just wanted him to be a little more attentive. My escargot was absolutely delicious, but it came out SO hot that I couldn't eat it for about 10 minutes. My parents really enjoyed their food (dad got the calf's liver and mom got some chicken dish), and my boyfriend RAVED about the duck, but my dish left a lot to be desired. I got the steak pommes frites, and my steak was SO TOUGH and chewy. The pommes frites were salty and delicious, but I could barely cut through that meat! It was very unpleasant eating it. I wouldn't be upset if someone told me we were going here again, because it's clear that I just ordered the wrong thing; however, I am not in a rush to get back.

Carol K.

Kiki's has been on my "must try" list ever since I found out that they had my favorite beer Kronenbourg 1664. So on a recent, blustery, Winter night, I finally had my chance. They seated us at a little table squeezed into the corner at the back of the room which was perfect as it gave me a chance to look around. Whoever had said that it has a loyal clientele wasn't kidding. This place was full on a Thursday night with the royalty of the Gold Coast- all primped and ready for a night out. There were only three tables of people under 60 in the whole place! The food was delicious. We started with the scallops (delicious) and the shrimp with some kind of sauce that was perfect for soaking up in the bread that they provided. As for our entrees- we ordered a variety of things to split. The cheese plate, the steak au poivre, french onion soup and some kind of potato. All were delicious. The cheese plate came with balsamic vinegar, walnuts, brie, goat's cheese and some other unidentifiable cheese that were all amazingly good. See man can live by "cheese" alone! There were a couple of hiccups in service during the evening which is what kept this from being a 5 star experience. The other crazy thing that happened was actually pretty funny. When we put our credit card into the check folder, the waiter was in such a hurry that when he spun around, the card must have been thrown from the holder and went sailing across the restaurant and he couldn't find it. It was like a bit from an old comedy with everyone looking under their tables and finally an older woman with two tone hair held it up and proudly proclaimed "I found it!". Certainly made for an interesting end to our evening. And who said French food is stuffy?

Jerry B.

This is a very delinquent review, but I wanted to add to my list of romatic/cheap restaurants. It was very nice, romantic place. Food was good, but not real exciting. Service was excellent. Not cheap, but more moderate. On the return list.

Bob D.

I was told to love French food, I was taught by French people, that French food is the highest culinary achievement. Well I don't really believe any one style of cuisine reigns supreme. I have had plenty of French food that bored me into anxiety fits. Pretentious service that made the backs of my legs sweat, but yet having never had the pleasure of the French countryside I new I just hadn't been to the right places. Thursday night, I kept sharing and kept eating. Escargots Frogs legs. Potato and leek soup Mussels cooked in Bougelais Nouvea Mussels cooked in something else Steak frites Trout on Crab Magrette de Canard [duck] Salmon Lamb Stew Chocolate mouse Creme brulee Apple tart All this food, every bit of it was superior, from ingredient selection to cooking methods used. The meals were balanced, with large portions, free of any pretense, and no gimmicks. Exactly what you should expect in a Bistro. Service was a perfect balance of the server being there every time you needed something, and not being seen otherwise, no sly comments, not winking, and certainly no apologies. This is not a place to take a first date, unless you have met someone of pure awesomeness. This is a place to let great wines roll around your mouth without anyone thinking you are pompous. This is a place where you will not be rushed, you can dine at your leisure. This is also a place that doesn't stick it to you just because you have good tastes. Try the three course for $27! Kiki's I shall return!

Edward W.

Kiki the owner is the best. Great atmosphere. Food excellent.

Christine M.

Kiki's is absolutely my favorite type of dining experience -- classic, simple exquisitely prepared faire in a classic style restaurant. I went for an early Friday dinner and was really amazed that the ower was actually there and sat us to our table. This set the evening off on the right foot and only got better as it went on! We were lucky to get a corner table that was away from the hustle and bustle of the other areas. If you're looking for a quieter dining experience, go earlier as the noise levels seem to rise as the evening goes on. Wine by-the-glass is top notch but not belt breaking. Recommend reservations as well. Started with the Foie Gras which was absolutely amazing (sorry duck lovers!) and I'm glad that's not illegal anymore, haha! Then, went on to the Steak au Poivre which was tender and an excellently prepared pepper sauce -- they didn't hold pack on drowning it in it either. Finished off with Berries and Cream (special request) to end the night. They seemed to have a fair mix of groups of friends, married couples, dates, groups of girlfriends, etc. so it doesn't seem like you can pin it to one type of crowd. Either way, wonderful dining experience and would go back in a heartbeat.

Victoria S.

this is an old timey french place - like they don't have too many of anymore- a classic menu with classic bistro/brasserie dishes and well executed. location is sort of out of the way - off michigan ave but the place is worth seeking out if you want sole meuniere or steak frites or a good french onion soup to take the winter chill off your bones...

Marnie R.

Had such an enjoyable experience at Kiki's Bistro. The food was delish especially the steak frites. The service was great and the atmosphere was romantic. I will definitely be back.

Stacy T.

A perfectly romantic setting for an indulgent French dinner. The candlelit orbs hanging from the ceiling and the rustic Provencal decor sets the tone for a quiet and delicious evening. The service was impeccable, food exquisite, and overall experience was delightful. The mussels were plump, juicy, and flavorful morsels from the sea, the Poulet Roti was cooked to perfection, and the steak and fries were deeply rich and satisfying. Wine list is more than adequate and they serve a mean martini! I love this place and would go there as often as I could!

Beth J.

This was my first visit to Kiki's Bistro and I am definitely a fan! My boyfriend and I are both lovers of French food so we decided to give this place a go. We were both quite hungry so ordered the duck liver pate as a starter which was so good. I then ordered the Norwegian salmon and he ordered the classic steak frites. We both really enjoyed our dinner quite a lot. The bottle of red wine that was suggested to us by our wonderful server was so good that it didn't last long. Our dinner was capped off with a creamy chocolate mousse. I will be recommending this place to all our friends! We will definitely be back.

Kiki's is absolutely my favorite type of dining experience -- classic, simple exquisitely prepared faire in a classic style restaurant. I went for an early Friday dinner and was really amazed that the ower was actually there and sat us to our table. This set the evening off on the right foot and only got better as it went on! We were lucky to get a corner table that was away from the hustle and bustle of the other areas. If you're looking for a quieter dining experience, go earlier as the noise levels seem to rise as the evening goes on. Wine by-the-glass is top notch but not belt breaking. Recommend reservations as well. Started with the Foie Gras which was absolutely amazing (sorry duck lovers!) and I'm glad that's not illegal anymore, haha! Then, went on to the Steak au Poivre which was tender and an excellently prepared pepper sauce -- they didn't hold pack on drowning it in it either. Finished off with Berries and Cream (special request) to end the night. They seemed to have a fair mix of groups of friends, married couples, dates, groups of girlfriends, etc. so it doesn't seem like you can pin it to one type of crowd. Either way, wonderful dining experience and would go back in a heartbeat.

Josh P.

Ok so I don't know from French food but this food is awesome! Been there three times and it just refuses to disappoint. the service is awesome and as someone else said "approachable." The ambiance is mildly romantic but not intimidating at all. Wine selection is great and I am now a fan of Cassoulet. The bar is a fine place to wait for your table and the crowd is a nice mix if not a tad on the older side...did not see many 20 somethings.

Brittany M.

Came here at 8:00 pm on a Thursday (apparently after all the old people had gone to bed). The food was delicious - terrine of foie gras was excellent and my pork tenderloin was perfectly cooked. I don't even want to think about how much cream was in the sauce but it was goood. Escargots were also tasty, but my friend's steak was undercooked - quel dommage! But it came with like a pound of those deliciously crisp frites, so that made up for it. You get the vibe that this place is for the older folks, but I wouldn't let that discourage you from trying it out. Also, don't mind the pink tablecloths (white ones would take 10 years off this place!). Kiki's is a good choice for casual French dining.

Marie B.

A lovely dining experience! Even during the Valentine's weekend!! The service was quite good. We were seated immediately. The wine list quite good. The space was fun and whimsically decorated. The menu, true to French cuisine...and yet,still "fun". The food was quite good. I had the grilled peach salad - yum. Baked tenderloin ....with the requisite mashed potatoes -- double yum. My dearest had the Lamb Brochettes...which looked quite good. He also tried the Frog Legs and pronounced them "tres bon"! The only minor disappointment was the desert. I ordered the "warm chocolate cake", but the cake was not warm and was not particularly chococatey in taste. Not "bad"....just "average". After the scrumptuous dinner, I really expected something over the top divine. Dessert withstanding, this is definitely a place a wonderful "date" spot. Quiet, but not too. Romantic little seating areas...just dark enough to make you look glam, but not so much you have to question what you are eating. Extremely attentive waitstaff, but not intrusive.

Jane K.

This place is great! When I think delicious, unpretentious, affordable French cuisine, I think Kiki's. I even had my birthday party here last year with about ten friends. The problem is, it's not a great place for parties because the waitstaff is unfriendly. Flat out, unfriendly. I understand it's hard to find friendly waitstaff, especially at an establishment like this where it seems the crowd is way older and regular but they were just flat out rude. I will probably go back but not as often as I would if the staff were nicer. Lamb stew rocks my world when it's cold out. Their pomme frites are very French and escargot is always good. Drink wise, red and white lillets are delish!

Eric B.

Kiki's is one of my favorite bistros in the city. I've been here over 10 times, yet I can't believe I haven't been here more. I consider Kiki's and La Sardine to be the two most consistent bistros in the City. Even though the restaurant is in an old loft building, it feels like a classic bistro because Kiki has spent a lot of time in the interior design -- inserting wood beams to hide the exposed pipes in the ceilings, and installing a bar heavily laden with wood, reminding you of French country restaurants. It is a lovely setting. I've eaten here so many times that I'm not going to recount a particular meal, but rather identify highlights for the courses: Appetizers: The go-to here is without a doubt the Duck Ravioli -- three large pieces served in duck broth. Unbelievably flavorful. Between the duck ravs here and the duck tortellini at Rose Angeli's, is there anything they CAN'T do with duck? If tragedy befalls and they are out of the Duck (this has happened to me), the frog legs and juicy and served in a creamy sauce. A very different flavor profile, but delicious nonetheless. Entrees: Its hard to recall all the good dinner entrees I've had, but what stands out to me is the rack of lamb -- the best rack of lamb I've ever had in a restaurant, and as good as the stuff I roast at home. Highly recommended. This summer they had, as a Wednesday night special, venison sirloin with spaetzle. It was delicious; try it if it is still there. If not, the Navarin d'Agneau - lamb stew - is smoky and filling. Furthermore, they have duck two ways - breast and leg confit - the hallmark of any bistrot worth its title. For desserts, as much as we like creme brulee and souffle, we always end up going for the profiteroles, and we are never disappointed. The mousse is superb, though, as well, right up there with Le Bouchon's. The wine list is extensive and has selections at all price points. If you are looking to splurge, go for the Cote Rotie.

Shannon W.

Went here for my birthday dinner. Food was EXCELLENT! I would definitely recommend and go here again. It's a bit of an older crowd, not a very hip scene, but the food made it worth it.

Eduardo P.

Great food, great ambiance, good attitudes! I love Kiki's smooth and comfortable ambiance which is greatly accompanied by their smooth staff. Very goof French cuisine that is reasonably priced. We never had a bad meal here. Eduardo

m h.

Dined in this establishment one weekend with a group of ladies. Our reservations were arranged by a very helpful concierge at a high luxury hotel in which we stayed for the weekend. Unlike our hotel experience which was fantastic, our experience at Kiki's was reprehensible at best. We had prearranged to partake in the prefixe menu, which we were well aware that our orders needed to be in promptly by 6:30pm. We struggled to get menus for our table on time, having to call the server over and actually ask for them. He handed the stack of menus to one of our guests and instructed her to hand them out to the rest of us. The reservation was noted so why they did not cooperate with us is unknown. By the time we flagged our server down again to give menu orders it was 6:32pm and they refused to give us the prefixe menu that we requested. The server argued with us and was extremely unprofessional, hostile and defensive. We asked to speak to a manager and an older gentleman (owner possibly) who never introduced himself. He quickly reprimanded us, made no eye contact and refused our request without allowing us to explain our circumstances and promptly walked away. His restaurant was full and bustling so he clearly did not see the value in accommodating our one table. We should have walked out, our fault. At the end of our mediocre meal, we asked the server to help us find something of value to one of our guests that had fallen on the floor. He shouted an obscenity (using the word p***y) that was so upsetting that we paid and left promptly. We were outraged and insulted. This restaurant experience was a clear lesson in what NOT to do in the hospitality business. It was so wrong on so many levels. I will never go back and will tell everyone I know about this very unfortunate experience.

Kelly S.

I just didn't get that 'wow' feeling here. It's not that the food was bad. It was good, not great. Roasted Chicken Salad Belgian Endive, Tomatoes, Green Beans, Green Apple, Walnut, Mustard Dressing I hate when my salad is over-dressed. This one was perfectly dressed. Looking quite spiffy, really. ;) After we paid the bill, two large dishes of chocolate mousse, whip cream, and strawberries arrived. On the house. Happy Friday! I enjoyed the atmosphere here and think that it is probably very romantic at night. I definitely want to re-visit and order something other than a salad.

Mike L.

Went there for a Birthday party on Saturday 9-9 and they sat us right next to the kitchen - it was hot outside for October standards, and it was even hotter sitting next to the kitchen inside. Our seats were too close to a 10 topper behind us and the birthday boy was hit at least 4 times by the rude bus and wait staff - the ambiance is nice, love the Monet style painting on North wall, the rich wood floors, and the lighting etc. The food was excellent but the waiters and busboys need to take a course in how to treat others the way they would like to be treated. We know they are under pressure to get the stuff out and keep the rich people happy, and we know it's a thankless job, but so is mine, so try a smile at least, and try saying EXCUSE ME after you squeeze behind someone and hit their back and push them against their table - 4 times. And I will never understand why restaurants purchase such large round and square china plates to serve their fare - especially on tables that are meant to be in a dollhouse - you may think it's stylish and intimate, but it's really irritating and almost always causes someone to spill something, and 2 people at our table did. And a spacial note to waiters - when a party orders a $200 bottle of Champagne and then a $160 bottle of wine, please don't poor the beverage in the glasses so fast that more ends up on the paper table cloth protector than the glass! Just a suggestion. But, I came for the food and the food was excellent! I had the the Coq Au Vin - we had the following appetizers; Smoked Salmon and I believe goat cheese, Beet Salad, another salad with bacon and an egg in the center - I would pass on the latter next time because I am not a huge fan of bacon unless it's on a BLT, and finally some sauteed Mushrooms in a wine sauce - EVERYTHING was excellent! We opted to go to MK's across the street for dessert and more Champagne - now THAT WAS AWESOME!

Susan B.

So laughably bad. Seafood was not fresh. Neither the mussels as an appetizer nor the "special"--bouillabaisse. Even the dessert was bad. And I'll eat pretty much anything involving chocolate and butter or cream. The saving grace? Either the bread and butter or watching the old folks gum their fancy dinners. Good for comic relief but not for enjoyable food.

Mike G.

I can't believe that last night was the first time that I tried Kiki's Bistro with my wife and another couple. What a refreshing place to dine even though it has been around forever and makes me wonder why we haven't tried it before after living in Chicago for 30 years. Warmly greeted and despite a sizable Saturday night crowd were promptly seated. The restaurant has just the right atmosphere for a bistro-warm, friendly and inviting. Kiki's strikes me like a pair of old and very comfortable shoes. It seems like others dining at Kiki's were similarly disposed-they were greeted like long time regulars. The food was classic bistro and it is apparent that Kiki's stays true to form. Many of the newer Chicago French bistros could learn a great deal by taking a closer look at Kiki's. Ordered the beet and house salad and the ingredients were fresh and attractively arranged. We had the steak pomes frites and the the poulet roti. The food was perfectly prepared and served on heated plates. The chicken was seasoned just right with a hint of sweet and savory. The steak was great. Dessert was shared among the four of us-apple tart with cinnamon ice cream and caramel sauce-so delicious. In summary, a restaurant that I would be happy to place on my regular rotation list and sure that we will be recognized as regulars before we know it. A lovely restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and staff who are happy that you chose Kiki's for your dinner. I sure hate to repeat myself, but we continue to be impressed by the many fine dining options that broaden our experience beyond the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Eric M.

We found Kiki's Bistro by a quick online search. We had a friend in town for a last minute trip and wanted a causual atmosphere with good food. We enjoy French Bistro food so we thought we would give it a try. Upon arrival, I was a little taken aback by the logo and bright red awnings. I agree with another post who recommended an update. I would agree that the outside appearance does not give you the impression of what you will experience when you are inside... The atmosphere is one of an old French Country Manor. The waitstaff was very attentive and not too intrusive. Our waiter was there when you needed him without overpowering your evening and interrupting conversation. This isn't a place that a lot of hip young Chicagoan's frequent, however they really should try it. There was an older crowd and families dining with older children. Many seemed to be regulars. The food was in a few words, authentic, high quality, with a nice presentation. One of the only things different from a bistro you might frequent in Paris is the portion sizes. They definitely are American sized portions so bring an appetit. The french onion soup was a perfect starter for this cool September evening. The best french onion soup I have had for a long time. I had the tenderloin of beef with a wonderful bernaise sauce. I ordered it medium rare and it was presented perfectly. The potato gratin was very tradional and a perfect side. The sauteed spinich, which is always a favorite was perfection. Not overcooked and seasoned well. I had the creme brulee for dessert and again it did not disappoint. The dessert portions are extremely large so be prepared. Overall, this was a solid dining experinece. The prices are reasonable for high quality French fair. Our overall consensus was that Kiki's Bistro was a pleasent surprise that surpassed our initial expectations. We will be back.

Lauren H.

I had been wanting to try Kiki's for years and got a restaurant.com gift cert, so it was time to try it out. We came on a Wed night and were surprised, it was fully packed and louder than we expected. As it wasn't a romantic date or anything, no bother. We both started with the French onion soup, which was good (but I must admit I have had better). We then shared a beet salad with walnuts and a hazelnut vinaigrette. I couldn't really taste the dressing, but the salad was tasty and they were kind enough to split it for us. My dinner partner had the salmon served with a potato cake and veggies and she seemed to enjoy it. I had the pork tenderloin with vegetables and polenta and it was very tasty, and such a generous portion I could not even eat half (it will be a good lunch tomorrow!). We shared the chocolate mousse which was very light and rich, but I prefer a darker chocolate (just a personal preference), and I wished the whipped cream was a tad sweeter. Service was good. My glass of champagne was also pretty reasonably priced. I would go back, plenty of other menu items I would like to try.

Curt L.

We were able to secure a 6:00 reservation on a Saturday night on very short notice, which made me wonder if the restaurant was as popular as Yelpers suggest. We were pleasantly surprised as the room filled up quickly just after 6. We very much enjoyed our meal, which we felt was a bargain as we ordered from the early dining menu--three courses for $27.50. The room itself is quite delightful -- the clear glass globes with candles in them suspended from the ceiling are everywhere, and with the dark wood floors and overall decor, Kiki's is a romantic attractive room. I ordered the onion soup as a fourth course. It was very good. I thought the stock could have had more body to it, but overall I enjoyed it given the tasty Gruyere cheese on top. Salads were small-ish portions but not tiny, a nice way to whet the appetite. The beet salad with hazelnut vinaigrette excellent. The greens were clearly quite fresh and the dressings really flavorful. The roast chicken was tender and well-seasoned -- best I've had anywhere and though this simple dish is a favorite of mine, in many places it comes out dry and overcooked. Not so at Kik's. My wife had the salmon, also delicious. For dessert, homemade caramel ice cream was especially good, and chocolate mousse was superb. Our server was helpful and attentive, but we in no way felt rushed. Made a special point of coming over to our table to wish us "Bon Appetit" after the runners brought our entrees. He also tidied up our table top each time he came by. It was cute. Lots of groups of 6-8 were celebrating various occasions. The room has a very relaxed tone to it, and the menu is straightforward and unpretentious, always welcome in a French restaurant. Yet everyone was nicely dressed and clearly into some good food. I thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Kiki's and strongly recommend it.

Xtina B.

Best French food I have ever had :) So authentic and the owner was so sweet! He came and chatted with us at our table. Our server was very knowledgeable and had some great suggestions. The food and the service were both fantastic!!!

Sonja S.

My dear friend Auntie Fab is a Franco-file - so duh, she wanted French food for her Birthday dinner. Another dear friend (let's call him Sir Ralf) Selected Kiki's Bistro as the sight of her celebration. I confess, I was skeptical - the Citroen Car logo bit threw me... I clomped down the street toward Kiki's will all the enthusiasm of my 14 year old nephew going for a hair cut. But then , through the gloom of a wintry Chicago night, I saw the warm glow emanating from the cozy interior of Kiki's and I was intrigued. Stepping inside I was surprised and delighted at the rustic, charming and warm interior which instantly transported me to the last time I had been in Paris. Now before I go into the food , let me first say, I can't remember the name of our waiter and its a terrible shame. I love professional servers, the kind one generally finds in Europe and rarely finds here in the States (except for in certain Italian Chop Houses) I worship those Waiters who know how to seamlessly guide ones meal with deference and wit, providing suggestions and applauding good choices, moving the meal along without rushing. Ahhhhh, its wonderful to absorb the tender ministrations of a Waiter who would never plop down on one knee to take your order or write his name backwards on a table cloth. He was a Prince and shame on me that I didn't write his name on my arm or something. Now for the food - it was a traditional French/ European style menu and it took us forever to select even the appetizers. We each ordered one intending to share. But when the glorious Kumamoto oysters, tender sauteed Frog legs and Duck Pate and Provencal Tart came to the table, no one wanted to share and we each gobbled up our own dishes in short order. The Kumamoto's were spectacular, briny and sweet at the same time, perfectly bathed in a mignonette and a dot of of caviar. YUM. We ordered the Veal chop, the duck ( happy me!) the steak pomme frites etc. I cannot speak for my dining companions, but OMG the duck was a vision, the angels came down from the sky and hummed three bars of Amazing Grace. WOW. The duck breast was served medium, there was a comfit duck leg that was so tender it literally melted, wild rice ( not Uncle Ben's REAL WILD RICE) braised red cabbage, green beans still crisp. Oh I could giggle like a school girl just thinking about it. It was so good that my companions fell upon it the minute I looked like my appetite was flagging and the plate went back with one solitary leg bone. We were ALL members of the clean plate club that night. We finished out meal with very traditional, well constructed deserts and Grand Marnier, oh a coffee. Suffice it to say that Auntie Fab's Birthday turned out to be a memorable occasion for all of us and me? I will be clomping back up the street to Kiki's on a regular basis!

Michael P.

Kiki's Bistro has been at it's current address since the early 90's. Prior to that, he had a restaurant in the Loop which was a hidden little gem below street level (Le Bordeux on Madison). Kiki knows how to run a restaurant. This is an adult restaurant. No techno music. No trainee, temporary while I am studying to be an actor/musician/lawyer waitstaff. No culinary experiments with the name of "fusion". No waitstaff singing for your birthday either. At Kiki's you get good, solid, traditional, French bistro dishes prepared the way you would expect. Now... can that be boring to some? Sure. To them I say, Chicago is filled with the Eatery du Jour that is hot for the moment and I suggest you go there for the total doofus experience before they close next month. If you are over 21, come to Kiki's for the food and the professional service. Kiki himself will be there to seat you. I have read some complaints about the age of the patrons. Well, I happen to think that the old money knows where to go and what to spend it on. Since I have several grey hairs, I fit in nicely and pretend to be old money! Keep in mind kiddies, when you get to be grey, I don't think you will still be hanging out at Japonais - you will get a headache from all the energy. As to complaints about the food. Well, while dining in a well respected, establishment, if you are dumb enough to pay a good buck for food that you don't feel was prepared properly without telling your waiter....(and you are dumb enough to write about it later) you will never be old money. All kitchens make mistakes and if you ever wish to make it as a seasoned, restaurant aficionado you need to let them know when something is not right - good restaurants will make it right. Regarding price, the fact is, most chain steakhouses charge more for a hunk of meat a la carte than does Kiki on a good variety of near complete meals on his menu. If you are in the mood, feel free to run up the bill. The wine list is extensive and there are specials as well. As in any upscale restaurant, don't expect to find a discounted, "expensive" bottle of wine. Kiki's is not the place to come to get loaded. If you need more than two glasses of wine with dinner, stop at your local gin mill on the way home and then call for reservations at Betty Ford. You may have a problem. Bottom line - Old School restaurant experience. Good for special occasions or for a nice escape from the day-to-day. Generally a mature, regular crowd with more of a mix at special events. Professional wait staff. "Bistro Favorites" (as classified on the menu) are my go-to choice. Daily specials add an interesting change. Duck Ravioli, the Veal Chop, Coq a Vin, Rack of Lamb, are wonderful. Deserts are generally simple but outstanding - the usual standards, creme brulee, chocolate mousse and some surprises. Free valet. Dress runs from business casual to nice jeans and a sweater. Skip Starbucks for a week, put on a sportcoat, get your wife or significant Other to dress-it up a little as well, and live large. Stoggy can be fun. Go and pretend you are Thurston Howell, III. - (Google it - if your a twentysomething.)

Kyle C.

Where I go for a fancier lunch in River North Kiki's bistro is a little bit of Paris, right here in Chicago. Stepping through the doors you feel like you are transported from River North to a more sophisticated oasis. Sometimes you just need a change from the quick and sloppy diner options nearby. I've had a couple of really nice business meetings here, and the atmosphere has been perfect for them - a place that you can actually have a conversation without trying to shout over music and crowds. The service is exceptional and as another reviewer stated, unpretentious. The meal is delivered in a timely fashion that doesn't leave you waiting but doesn't seem rushed. I usually opt for the fish or pasta du juor, but one visit I tried their chicken special for that day (I wish I could remember the name) and it was absolutely outstanding. As appealing as their whole dessert menu is, I can force myself to order nothing but the Crème brûlée with a layer of chocolate on the bottom, piled with fresh berries. A layer of CHOCOLATE? All other Crème brûlée is ruined for me now. Thank you very much Kiki!

Ashley B.

Kiki's is a revelation. It is a shame we hadn't been there before! My husband and I have been exploring the world of French food quite a bit since we got Le Crueset cook wear off our registry...and we've fallen in love, this time with French cuisine. And Kiki's is perfect. The atmosphere is beautiful, whimsical and elegant and perfect for a date night. First off: the french onion soup is perfect. The gruyere is incredibly flavorful. It's slightly better than that at Bistro Zinc, which had been our favorite until tonight. Then, the venison chop. Shut up. Perfect. After we had our first bite, we stopped talking and ate slowly and in silence out of reverence for the sacred deliciousness. The sweet fig sauce and the walnut puree melded richly with the perfectly cooked, tender meat. Finally, the creme brûlée. I had never enjoyed this particular dessert, but it's my dear husband's favorite so we indulged. And now I understand, so clearly, his deep love for the burnt sugar amazingness. A few tips: don't dress like a trixie. The crowd here is elegant and no one is trying to impress anyone else. Think cashmere sweater and jeans. Perhaps it's the first evening out in Chicago for a long time where I did not see a single female (or male I guess) in tights or jeggings.

Rachel W.

If you work in River North, you must do lunch at Kiki's. The food is incredible (today I had diver scallops with asparagus and whipped potatoes- perfection!) and the size/ variety of their lunch menu is incredible. Their daily omelet, salad, soup, and fish specials are the real stars. And I have a theory the waitstaff is psychic. No seriously. Like creepy pod people from another planet, all armed with ESP and the ability to hear our thoughts. Whether or not you make reservations, they anticipate if there are still more to arrive for your party. They swoop in during conversation lulls (not during highly engaged dialog) to take orders. They appear the moment you've finished to take your plate. And they can sense if/when you need to get back to the office and make sure you get your bill quickly. Kiki (the owner) and Violet (the hostess) are both friendly and extremely professional. A great spot for a business- or fun- lunch!

Jackie S.

Very nice place for a special occasion. Solid French fare (highly recommend the short-ribs), very attentive service, and extensive, relatively well-priced wine list of mostly French varietals. I will definitely be back.

Jim W.

It's hard for me to write a review when I think one thing screwed up my experience. Ok, well one and a glaring observation. I'm not really one to make fun of people for their age, but it was really REALLY noticeable! I'm sure most of these fine clientele have excellent tastes, but at 930p on a Fri night, wasn't it past the geriatric society's bedtime? It was sort of cute but similar to Carolyn S, I felt like it was at bingo night at the managed care facility. Hard to top Hugh B's "The average age of the clientele is deceased" though. I came to Kiki's at the recommendation of a friend...this was one time I didn't do my homework and read the yelp reviews, so I brought a date. The venue itself is nice enough, gives the feeling of rustic French countryside, maybe near the Seine. Service was good, from seating us (we didn't mention that we were 45 min late for our reservation) to the wait staff and water, wine suggestions, and very important to me, being thanked and said goodnight to as we left, by Kiki himself. The food left something to be desired though. While the escargot were excellent, the beef tenderloin, while tender was just not that flavorful. Worse, the mussels were below average and not only made my stomach queasy a few hours later, but gave my girlfriend food poisoning and induced vomiting. I'd like to give Kiki's a better shake given that I liked the service and its homely nature, but it's hard to justify going back.

Daniel R.

It's not like I'm going to be wearing any berets or anything, but sometimes it's a good thing to get a little Frenchy. I mean, they've given us SO much: french fries, french toast, french kissing (oo la la)! Anyway, it was my mother's birthday and it coincided with the special Yelp promotional menu, so I gave it a shot. BTW: the promotional menu is eerily similar to the early dinner menu they normally have. You can get that from 5 to 630PM and it's only $25 for 3 courses. The food was pretty good. I had the mussels and they were some of the best I've had. My mother had the mushroom fricassee and it was frican-awesome. We both had steak pomme frites. Mine was a bit overdone, I think, but it was good and HUGE. The frites made the meal (as did the giant pat of compound butter). We split the chocolate mousse and lemon tart. It was as expected. Nothing too spectacular. BUT, if you want simple food done well (or well done, if you're having the steak) eat at Kiki's.

Ken K.

Wife wanted to try some Coq Au Vin, something she'd always heard about but never tried. This was our 2nd time dining at Kiki's, we enjoyed our first visit as my wife raved about their roasted chicken and apple tart dessert. We ordered mussels, french onion soup, coq au vin, steak frites, blueberry bread pudding, lemon tart and apple tart. My wife insisted we get the apple tart again to round out the 2 desserts from the prix fixe menu. Mussels were pretty good, the broth was nice to eat with the french bread. My wife's french onion soup was pretty bland, the onions didn't have that deep carmelized color which resulted in a rather bland taste in the soup. Coq au vin was ok, but my wife said she would've rather ordered the roast chicken dish. My steak frites was not very good, the meat was way way too thin, i ordered it medium rare, but the meat cut was so thin, there's no way to cook a piece of meat like that anyway except for at best medium well to well done. Also, meat was so thin, there was no chance to get any carmelization or crust on the meat. Very very disappointed in this dish. The frites were great though, i was surprised i would like shoestring cut potatoes. On to dessert, lemon tart crust was way too hard, we needed a hammer to cut into it. Blueberry bread pudding was pretty good. But oh man, that apple tart is awesome, buttery flaky crust, properly sliced thin apples, and that caramel sauce is what makes this dish, I could've just taken that sauce home and save it for a big bowl of vanilla ice cream. Service was efficient, our waiter forgot to order our beet salad, we let it slide. And its nice to see a restaurant where the owner's name is actually there, Kiki sat us down to our table.

Jane A.

The steak au poivre here is the best ever. The sauce is incredibly light and rich at the same time. The steak is top grade. If you're getting the mussels, you should save some of the bread to sop up the broth. It's as good as the mussels themselves, if not better. Love the intimate country french ambience.

Jolie R.

What a disappointment! We went to Cirque de Soleil and wanted to make it a Francais soir and decided Kiki's was the place since we'd heard so many good things about it. I can't remember what hubby had, but my sea bass was so dry it was inedible. The wait staff was pretty snooty and ignored us most of the evening. It was my b-day, so they brought me a great chocolate yummy for dessert, so I'll give them kudos for that. Expensive - too much for what we had. Don't think I'll be back.

Dan M.

Kiki's is ok. I ordered the steak pommes frites. It was good. Le Bouchon and Bistro Campagna are better. The chocolate mousse dessert was pretty good. The dining room was kinda interesting. The crowd was a few decades my senior. The server was nice. If you would describe this review as riveting or have a heart problem that dissuades you from doing things that raise your pulse above 60, then you will probably love Kiki's.

Jennifer S.

This was one of the worst meals we have had in Chicago. The glass of french wine I ordered was super sweet, the duck was fatty, the sauces on both our dishes were so salty and poorly constructed. I maybe got through three bites of my salmon- and should have sent it back. We were hoping that dessert would salvage the meal- but a blueberry muffin soaked in syrup doesn't pass for bread pudding. Honestly, I have had better meals on an airplane- and I am not talking business class. I just cannot understand the good reviews this place has.

derek T.

As soon as we walked in I knew we had chosen the right place for the evening. It was my wives bday, and it was cold and rainy, so we were looking for cozy and quiet. Not sure if Kiki's is always cozy and quiet, but we were seated in a small windowed corner near the bar, a perfect start. Our waiter, James, was fantastic - knowledgeable, friendly, local, and with a good sense of humor. Right off the bat he sold us on an Alsace special of fresh oysters on the half shell, served with a touch of horseradish vinaigrette and caviar - yum. We choose a St. Emilion Bordeaux that was reasonably priced, and went perfect with my wife' choice of the rack of lamb and my veal scallops with morel mushrooms. The only reason I didn't give Kiki's a 5 is that the food was a 4. The lamb was very good, but it didn't blow me away, my wife has prepared it in a similar fashion (garlic encrusted) just as well. As for my dish, again very good, but just a few morels and that kind of diminished it. We wrapped up with a cheese plate that had 3 very good cheeses and a some fruit, very simple presentation (all of the food shared this quality) but very flavorful. James delivered two muscat's on the house to finish the evening - and we were very happy.

Miriam R.

I went here recently with my parents, and had an amazing dining experience. First of all, our waiter (I wish I could remember his name) was extremely helpful in recommending food / wine choices, and was very accommodating. I had the Peppercorn steak and the French Onion soup. French Onion Soup is often way too salty, but this time it was just salted enough, and the taste of the delicious Gruyere was uninhibited. A few people have commented on the age of the clientelle--there were definitely some older patrons, but I would say that at least half of the patrons were under 50. I went on a Friday night, so I don't know if that made a difference. At the end of dinner, our waiter brought us some Muscat (on the house) to help celebrate my brother's birthday, so they get bonus points for being so generous and accommodating! I think my favorite part of this place is that while it is a formal setting (and a bit expensive, although for me it was the perfect "parents in town" kind of place), it isn't the least bit snobby. It was perfect place for me (definitely not an aficionado of French cuisine) and my parents and brother (who have more "refined" tastes) to enjoy a relaxed evening of delicious food and wine.

Karen J.

A very pleasant experience. We went Saturday night and our evening started with finding abundant street parking. Kiki himself greeted us warmly an showed us to a cozy table. Our waiter,Abdel. was very helpful in recommending outstanding meals and wines. A couple of us ended up ordering from the 3 course $29.95 menu with 4 choices for each course. All of the courses were decent sized portions and very tasty. One person had the mussels marinière and another diner had the fricassée of mushrooms with madeira wine sauce. Both were were very lavorfula and well prepared. I had the salmon dinner with capers and asparagus. The lamb stew ordered by another diner was very tender and flavorful. Dessert choices inciuded chocolate mousse and lemon tart with raspberry sauce. Outstanding! The menu provideda wonderful choice of French bistro items that were all exquisitively prepared. We appreciated Abdel's food and wine recomendations . .

Paige W.

First of all... I sent Jennifer B. a compliment this morning because she made my mouth water at the mere thought of the orgasmic caramel sauce on a poached pear dessert at Kiki's Bistro. And of course, to each her own... But I was not moved by this caramel sauce. It tasted like jarred Smucker's caramel ice cream topping diluted with rubbing alcohol. Well, anyway. I headed in with a friend tonight for my only Restaurant Week reservation. The interior is charming, very cozy and rustic. Perfect for a winter night. Sadly, by cozy I also mean the tables were packed together comme les petites sardines, n'est-ce pas? The restaurant was loud and frenzied, but our table's corner location, right near the kitchen, server station and 7,432 tables somehow managed to be the eye of this culinary hurricane. We both ordered the French onion soup from the prix-fixe menu, served in the traditional ceramic crock with bread on the bottom and freshly shredded Swiss cheese melting over the top. Piping hot and delicious. As his main course, my friend had the lamb skewers served over the most intensely buttery couscous I've ever experienced. The meat was tender and cooked to a lovely medium rare. Despite my temptation to stray from the prix-fixe and order steak frites (so. hard. to. resist.), I opted for the duck entree, with a sliced breast cooked to order and a little drummie of confit. Which I'd never tried. Which I want to be bathed in from now on. The accompaniments to my meal were a little bizarre, some caramelized beets and a sort of wild rice (and three, count 'em, little steamed veggies), but that only left me room for the dessert. And it is the lemon tart that brings this otherwise ordinary meal up to its four-star glory. Get READY. It was just perfect. The custard was light and tart, served atop a delicate crust that all held together with perfect balance and unity. A generous drizzle of raspberry and possibly white chocolate sauce, along with some whipped creme fraiche and a strategically placed sprig of mint, completed the plate. Parfait, mes enfants. Parfait. I want to marry that tart, I said. I want to make an honest woman of her. And just for that, I would return to Kiki's Bistro outside of R-week, get the steak frites, box up three-quarters of it and go to town on that sweet, luscious tart one more time. Go there, and fall in love for yourself. Edit, the morning after: I'm tempted to knock this back down a star for the indigestion I have this morning. G'damn.

Alison F.

Second time at Kiki's and less impressed unfortunately. The restaurant has a nice, cozy feel to it, though a bit outdated, and it's easy to speak and hear each other across the table. It's a bit of an older crowd which suited the group we were with well. Kiki's is not too loud nor is it trendy. Our server did a good job across the board, unfortunately the food wasn't great for the price. We started with the Crab Cakes, scallops and mushrooms. The mushrooms were the best of the three. The other two were just ok. For the main entrees, they ran out of their recommended chicken dish so 2 of us had to adjust - it happens, they handled it well but then 3 of us that ordered the salmon had to send it back as it was less than rare. They were kind enough to send us complimentary desserts to make up for the inconvenience which was a nice gesture. Desserts were good but not great either. At the end of the night the coat-check staff came to our table to deliver our coats (a hint I guess). We couldn't find our plastic reusable claim ticket and she looked at us as to please find it. She said they just bought them. We spend over $600 that night and we shouldn't have felt uncomfortable if we couldn't find our claim ticket. No worries, we did eventually find it and returned it so we saved the day. We found Kiki's to be just OK for the price. With so many options in the city it's hard to recommend OK food for the price.

Rachel K.

Went here with the gf for the Yelp Eats Week and I was pretty darn impressed. Our reservations were for 9:30 and we got there about 15 minutes early, but they sat us right away. Out waiter was really nice and happy and pronounced himself a queen. The decor was beautiful. I really really liked the way the place looked, smelled, and sounded. The people watching was great and I prefer a bit of an older crowd so I was happy and comfortable. I ordered the salad, steak, and mousse for dessert off of the Yelp menu as well as a very good glass of sauvignon blanc that was expensive (11.50 for a glass) but really good. The bread and butter served before the meal was delish. The salad was nothing exceptional. The steak was yummy and so were the pommes frites that came with it. The mousse was to die for. I really like that their dessert portions aren't enormous. They're too rich to be really big. The gf had the french onion soup, the steak, and the lemon tart. I tasted her soup and liked it. She said it was some of the best she'd ever had. I tasted the lemon tart and didn't like it, but I knew I wouldn't. It was just too tart for me, but she thought it was fantastic. My only complaint of the night was that it took forever for the waiter to bring us the bill. I don't mind waiting between courses, but I hate waiting for the bill. The whole meal took about an hour, but we waited for the bill for about a half hour while our waiter chatted people up at other tables. I understand that he was probably slowing down a bit since they were closing, but I really don't appreciate having to wait that long. *Edit: After having an amazing steak elsewhere I decided to come back and revise this review. The steak at Kiki's was just ok. It was nothing great and I'm now giving this place 3 stars instead of 4. I'm not sure its really worth going back to this place for the quality of food and the high prices.*

Hugh B.

Kiki's is generally very enoyable. The food is classic French -- no surprises. Lots of sauces. Service is dependable. And the room, when full, has a nice buzz to it. That all said, the place is not hip. The average age of the clientele is deceased. But, it's a type of crowd that will not settle for poor food or poor service. Have your grandparents take you and enjoy!

christine p.

went here last night for my bday dinner! was just as delicious as last time! Kiki and his wife were there to great and seat us, they are seriously too cute! had the escargots and foie gras again, SO YUUUMMMYYYY! Can't wait to go back!

Jennifer G.

My boyrfriend and another couple went here to try something new in Chicago. While the food was ok (the salad was the best part, I think), I got food poisoning. 24 hours after eating here I was sicker then a dog. Out of the other couple the husband got sick as well. Its kind of strange because the only thing we had that was the same was the salad but his wife had it too and didn't end up sick. Needless to say we will not be going back.

Linds R.

I went to lunch here for an end-of-internship celebration with my then-supervisor during my last year of grad school. Part of my fond feelings for this place are because of her, she was the best supervisor I've ever had for a job that I would do anything to have again; but part of it is just that the food was really great. I had the coq au vin, yes for lunch, it was delicious and I ate the whole thing. Other people with us had the croque monsieur, scallops, and other classic French dishes, everything was very good. The staff were polite and the ambience was very nice. I would like to go back, not only to the restaurant, but to that lunch in particular. And I'd have the coq au vin again.

Craig A.

Great time. Amazing food and service. One of the best restaurants in Chicago.

D.L. P.

Kiki's was my first real experience with a French restaurant. I did like it. Great ambiance. The bar's in front, which always makes for a convenient waiting area. Kiki - the owner - was making the rounds, working but also politely saying hello to his guests. That goes a long way and his sincerity was a nice touch. My french food cherry popping was a good experience. The staff was knowledgeable and helpful, which was necessary considering my inexperience. My parents and a lot of family were there so I really appreciated their answering some questions and not forcing me to deliver my Chuck Norris stare of death and/or roundhouse kick. The food was good/great. We had a variety of things and shared. I liked most items and even what did not gain my palette's approval, I could respect the plate for something someone else would enjoy. My Uncle scooped the tab, so I did not see what the damage looked like. I think it was around $1000 total including gratuity for about 16 of us, all of whom were drinking throughout dinner. I'd like to say not bad, but my Uncle's money clip could tell you better about that. A good experience!

Joshua S.

Very Good food. Very Good Service. Very cool owner. Had the pork sandwich and fries, so good.

C A.

Great food. Very friendly staff. They always seem to be pretty empty when we go though.

Lucas P.

We have been to kiki's twice so far and the restaurant is getting al title better each time. The first time I nada the coq a vin, chicken in red wine sauce, and a the chicken was cooked very well, but the sauce started to coagulate a little, and for the appetizer we had the duck ravioli, which has a hair in it. On the second turn, I had the lamb shank which was incredible as well as some oysters. The second turn ended up being much better than the first. I guess the saying goes, if you try something once and you don't like it, try it again and give your opinion then.

Maria S.

I can definitely understand why my friend and I were the youngest people dining here by about 30 years.... There is not any flashy, modern decor and the menu does not offer any kind of forward-thinking fusion food that my generation is drawn to. However, what they do, they do well. My dinner consisted of a mushroom ragout to start, a roast chicken with pomme frites for main course and chocolate mouse for dessert. Nothing striking, but everything was done well; simply a "good meal". Our waiter was very friendly, I could tell that he has worked there a very long time. All the staff was attentive and efficient. Summation: No "oooohhhs" and "aaaahhs" just "mmmm mmmm good".

Kelly R.

Ate here on New Years Eve this year and I thought it was fantastic. The restaurant itself has a very warm, rustic feel to it. We were seated at a larger corner table, but the little side-by-side tables looked kind of cramped - glad I wasn't there. Now the food - it was all incredible. The onion soup was really good - not the best I've ever had, but up there. The mussels were great and probably the biggest ones I have ever had. Almost freakishly big, I was slightly concerned they were shot with steroids. The goat cheese salad was also really good and huge, 2 people could split it. And finally, the Poulet Roti was amazing!! Too much to finish, but amazing nonetheless. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was lacking from the time we entered and throughout the meal. I'll have to go back on a night that's not NYE to see if the service is any better.

Leigh R.

I visited Kiki's during Restaurant Week for lunch. First off, I was happy that they had an actual Restaurant Week menu, with a few selections as opposed to the "menu" that Aria offered with one, lonely option for the masses. I started with the pates as my Restaurant Week approach was to try new things. Given that I am generally a proponent of all foods spreadable, I was happy with my decision. Those pates were pretty darn tasty. I chose the salmon with hollandaise for the entree bc it was lunch and I wanted something light. Obviously, 'hollandaise' doesn't scream 'light lunch' but the other options were steak and duck so...you see my reasoning. It was also de-lish but I was jealous of my dining partner's frites. Dessert = creme brulee with a chocolate bottom = fantasticly inappropriate for lunch and my waistline but ... what of it. My one huge gripe was that we went for lunch - as in 'lunch' in the middle of a normal working day - and the whole experience took about 2 hrs and 15 minutes, which, I am guessing, is generally frowned upon in the corporate world. But, hey - it was Restaurant Week!

Lesly S.

After a week agonizing and strategizing on the perfect place for a work dinner in Chicago, trusty Yelp came through with Kiki's Bistro. It was close, the price range was right, and the menu was exotic enough yet accessible. I called for a reservation and the host immediately made me feel I'd chosen the right place--he was flexible with the times, and when my party lost a few people the day of it was no big deal. Taking people out to dinner in their own city can be risky, but everyone loved Kiko's. I thought the food was solid--not the best pork tenderloin I've ever had (it was a bit dry), but the accoutrements were delicious. Our whole party finished with dessert and we loved that as well. The creme brulee with the chocolate bottom is big enough to share and delicious. The service was excellent too--all in all Kiki's was a great find and I definitely recommend it.

Kim J.

I really wanted to love Kiki's bistro. I loved the antique cars outside, I loved the decor, I loved the nice maitre'd who seated us 15 minutes prior to our reservation. But sadly, I didn't love the food. It was just "ok". I started out with the goat cheese tart - tasty, but sorely lacking in goat cheese! The boyfriend had the escargot, which he enjoyed but I thought were just average. For our main dishes, the boyfriend had a steak which had to be the highlight of the night. Cooked perfectly with a tasty sauce. My lamb dish was decidedly less tasty. The lamb was overcooked and tough. The couscous that came with it was good, though. Our desserts provided mixed reviews as well. The boyfriend chose the crepes Suzette, which came with a nice Grand Marnier sauce, but the crepes themselves were not very flavorful. I had the chocolate mousse, which was really good. Our total bill with one of the cheaper bottles of wine came to $135 without tip. Not cheap for a meal that wasn't spectacular. The service was good and I liked the atmosphere, but I think I'll stick with Bistro Campagne, my old French standby.

Katherine Ashley M.

You know, the food was good. But the service was terrible. Salvadore, get another job so that I can come back. It was one of those experiences that make you kind of upset that you tipped even 15% (which he was obviously peeved about because he refused to make eye contact with us as we walked out when everyone else around him said thank you!) Ugh.

Paul T.

Kiki's is good. It's consistent, staff is quite friendly, accommodating and efficient. Wine selection is good, and having just returned from Paris, I thought that everything was authentic. If you go early enough on Saturday evenings, they have a pairing menu that works out well. People rave about the Creme Brulee, but it wasn't for me, as there's a layer of chocolate at the bottom, and I'm not a chocolate fan. The inside of the restaurant is warm and it's definitely worth checking this place out.

Taylor H.

Nice atmosphere and great service. The food was really unimaginative and with a mediocre execution. The kurobuta pork chop was flavorless and cooked beyond well done. Truffle fries were good, but they are really hard to screw up. I had a salad with mushrooms which was quite good. Overall, didn't meet my expectations.

J C.

We ate at Kiki's last night in celebration of my 27th birthday. It was--in a word--fantastic. I had the bouillabaisse Marseillaise, while the hubby had the sauteed sea scallops. Before those fabulous entrees arrived, we staved off our hunger by splitting a serving of duck ravioli. Very rich and very tasty. I am completely spoiled by the bouillabaisse. It was a dish I had never tried before and will forever compare to Kiki's. The hubby said his scallops almost tasted like lobster because they were so rich and buttery. Portions were generous. Finally, before we waddled out of the restaurant to retrieve our car from the complimentary valet parking, we had dessert. I chose the ever-popular creme brulee. My husband tested the profiteroles du chocolat. Both were simply divine. Overall, we had a great experience. As noted before, the crowd was not young. Rather, it appeared that most of the diners were in their middle ages or older. We saw one large group that came in around 8:00 which appeared to be our age. Service was prompt and attentive but not overly friendly. It was certainly a place we would consider returning to for a special occasion. And although Kiki's is casual, be prepared to lay down some pretty significant bucks for a three-course dinner.

Michelle R.

Perfect for a date because... 1. quiet, so you can hear each other 2. good lighting. dim. so any blemish you may have isn't obvious 3. affordable 4. close to the el and Chicago Ave. easy out 5. and lastly, the food is really good. I had the beet salad with goat cheese for starters. Good-sized portion and tasty. The fish du jour was whitefish with a lavender cream sauce. Nice wine list, mostly French (duh). And very romantic desserts. The Early Dinner Menu is from 5-6:30pm. $25 excluding tax & tip

Naomi L.

Ok so maybe I shouldn't order Duck and Onion soup and sparkling wine when 7 months pregnant- (equls heartburn) I just love this place it is perfect for busines, pleasure and romantic. One Day I will come for Valentine's day. Their service is quick effcient and experienced. The food is perfect French food- haven't found similar place in town?

Matthew L.

Food was delicious and fresh and perhaps some of the history was lost on me. Portions and pricing were much more reasonable than expected. Worth a trip if you're looking for a traditional meal, but it's not exactly where I would go for a special occasion. Wouldn't say no if I was invited to go, but I can take it or leave it.

Johnny R.

I've been to Kiki's a number of times, since my office was located two blocks away. It's the perfect restaurant for a lunch meeting. While I've sampled pretty much every entree in their regular rotation, I've tended to stay with steak and pomme frites. I've never really had a bad meal there, but I've never really had a memorable meal there either. I don't have much else to add, except that it's not too loud in there, and it's easy to talk.

Dawn L.

I visited Kiki's with two friends for the first time two nights ago to celebrate my new job--overall, we had a great experience. The service was excellent--the staff was unintrusive, but we never had to wonder where our server was and our water glasses were constantly filled. And the bistro has a wonderful, warm ambiance. The food: - We ordered the sauteed scallops and Kiki's frog legs as appetizers for the table to share. These were AMAZING. The sauces were simply superb. And I don't say that lightly. I think we would have licked the plates clean if we'd been at home rather than a nice restaurant. If I come back I might have to make meal out of those two rather than ordering an entree. - Entrees: My roommate had the roast chicken, which was excellent. Soft, tender, not over-cooked, as chicken can sometimes be. The portion was large too--the dish was half a chicken. I thought my boyfriend's salmon was good but slightly overdone--he wasn't terribly happy with it though, and thought it was a bit bland. I had the rack of lamb, which was almost perfect--the lamb itself was excellent, but it seemed like it was encrusted in wasabi (there was no mention of wasabi on the menu, so perhaps it was just undercooked garlic? It was rather strong). The mashed potatoes that came with my meal were nothing special; I make better mashed potatoes myself. - Dessert: The creme brulee is fantastic. I'd been longing for a good creme brulee for the last week, and this definitely satisfied. The custard was soft and delicate, not too gelatin-like, the crust had just the right depth, and the chocolate at the bottom made this chocolate snob really happy. Expect to spend around $40 a person with tip and taxes (without drinks).

Jennifer B.

Fantastic! We went here during restaurant week, so we ordered off the fixed price menu. For $32 each we got three courses, which was a ton of food. The onion soup and duck ravioli were good, the lamb skewers and duck breast were great and the pear tart with caramel sauce was unbelievable. It had the best caramel sauce I have ever eaten, and I've had quite a bit. The atmosphere is really nice too, you definitely don't realize that you're sitting in the middle of a dilapidated block in Chicago. With the exposed beam ceiling and the paintings behind the "windows" that look like fields of wildflowers it really does feel like you're in Provence. I highly recommend Kiki's for a great dining experience.

Ivan M.

France is an amazing food country and French bistros can easily be the best bang for the buck you get. Great food at affordable prices could also be Kiki's slogan. The place is not particularly hip, you may almost say outdated, and you should not expect to find a 20-40 year old crowd here either. But it's a solid French kitchen with attentive service and it does not disappoint at all. I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for a French bistro in Northern Chicago

Angela K.

Steak au Poivre was great. I also tasted the veal ribs with pineapples which fell off the bones. The fours of us each ordered a dessert and shared. The Mousse au Chocolat was very fluffy but rich and the Tarte aux Pommes was voted the best. The service was great too!

Molly S.

I came here with a party of 7 on a Monday night. Four of us had the restaurant week prix-fixe: mushroom tart (they called it something else that I can't remember, but it was basically a mushroom tart), lamb shank, lemon tart. They're not listed on the restaurant week website, and it was technically the day before it officially started, but hey man, whatever's clever. I believe it was around $29, which is a pretty good deal for this place. Another person in my party had the salmon, and my sister had the steak frites. Everyone seemed to be pretty happy with their dinners. I tasted some of the mushroom tart, and it was very lovely and flavorful. I had the duck ravioli to start, which was actually sort of disappointing. I had such high hopes, but it was just three rather gummy ravioli with very scant filling in an overwhelming soup of a sauce. They seemed to be made with wonton skins instead of pasta, which you know, okay, I do that at home, but I don't expect it at a nice restaurant. They didn't taste BAD, they just weren't that great. For my entree I had one of the specials - lamb loin wrapped in phyllo with mashed potatoes and a sort of vegetable hash. It was SERIOUSLY delicious. It was cooked absolutely perfectly - moist and tender, the right doneness, well-seasoned. I have to say, none of the regular menu items really jumped out at me (they all looked good, but none that made me say I NEED TO EAT THAT RIGHT NOW), so I was really glad to have the special available. Don't get me wrong, I Iove French food. There was just nothing on there that enticed me to any great degree, other than the beloved standards like roasted chicken and steak frites. If I'm paying for a relatively expensive meal, I want to be wowed. They call themselves a bistro, but neither the prices nor the overall ambience evoke a bistro, so the argument about "simple bistro food" is sort of not applicable here. BUT, as I said, the lamb was really freakin good. For dessert I had the croustade de poire (poached pear over puff pastry with almonds, caramel, and creme anglaise). LOVED IT. I prefer a fruit dessert after a heavy meal, and this was just lovely. The caramel was some sort of delicious voodoo. One thing that kind of irked me is that I felt like there was CONSTANTLY somebody buzzing around me. Waiters, bussers, runners, etc. were just...always in my face. I did appreciate that they were attentive, but you don't need to refill my water every time I take a sip for pete's sake. There were always arms over my shoulders and bumps against my chair. Overall, the food was really good. But, like I said, the menu doesn't wow. I think I might like La Sardine better. I know people go gaga over Kiki's, and like I said, my entree and dessert were super good, but I just don't feel like I need to rush back. There's plenty of excellent food in this city, so I'd need a pretty good excuse to hike it over to this neighborhood and drop that kind of cash. I'm giving it 4 stars because the food WAS good, but I think it probably feels more like a 3.5 in terms of my overall feelings about the experience.

Diana S.

OH MY! Yet another prix fixe deal! This place is adorable and cozy. I came for an early dinner one time, only to be surprised with a prix fixe. There is this early dinner special that goes on from 5-6:30PM. It's $25 for 3 courses. Our group had a nice variety of choices. The steak I got was a large portion. I was happily surprised. If I were to compare this to La Sardine...which is similar...La Sardine is a little fancier and the food is a bit better too. It's really hard to say. Anyways, both are definitely worth a try.

julie p.

It was my first night home after a 3 month trip, Alinea and TRU and Schwa couldn't get us in, so a friend recommended Kiki's for my boyfriend and I. "It's not as fancy, but you'll be happy." I was surprised, since french food and vegetarians rarely mix well, but he said it was romantic and we were out of ideas. I was SO impressed. I told our server I was veg and he said "that's no problem." The chef made a special plate of delicious vegetables just for me- perfectly cooked and buttery tasty. We were a little overdressed, but nobody noticed. The wine list was fantastic and the servers were kind about our ignorance on all things wine. The dining room is cosy and heavy wooden beams crisscross the ceiling, throwing shadows from the candle lit tables below. We were seated at 7:30 and were the last table in the house after closing but the wait staff didn't rush us at all, refilling coffee cups until we chose to leave.

Tony S.

Tricky one this. In general I think most people on this web site over rate when they score restaurants and services. For me 3 stars means it does what it says and it does it well, 4 stars means I had a really good time and it was above par and pretty fabulous. 5 Stars means it was exceptional and I was basically orgasming over the food and service and would sell my mother to go back there. With that I would say this place is a solid 3 stars. That is I had a really pleasant evening, the food was good and the service was good too. I would recommend this place and take friends as it's close, the food is good, prices are reasonable and the service was good too. I had a Salad Lyonaiise to start, i.e. Lettuce Frisee, lardons and poached egg. The poached egg was done pretty much perfectly and the sald was nice, a bit tart/vinegary but pretty good. We both had the Roast Chicken which came with red cabbage and mash. The mash was too pureed for me, nothing wrong with it, quite nice just a bit bland. The cabbage was really nice and worked well with the mash and chicken. The roast chicken was just nice, nothing special or to write home about and not too dry. So pretty good meal, I think it was $80 plus we left $15 tip so $95 which was 2 starters, 2 Roast Chickens and the other half had a Kir Royale and a Glass of White wine. I just had water cause I am a bloody martyr. :o) So based on the above do you think I am under markign them and they deserve a 4 star? Is there any guidance or is it merely a personal thing? Love yas

Katrina B.

We came here for the first time for Restaurant Week, but I've been meaning to try it anyway. It was hard to stay on the prix fixe meal with so many other good choices on the menu. We did though, and overall the meal was quite good. The potatoes with my salmon were not, and we weren't crazy about the pear dessert, but I'll put my positive opinion in for the caramel sauce debate. Our service was not super friendly, but was very polite and we were well taken care of in all aspects of service. Also, we had time to "rest" and chat between courses. I enjoy this and hate to feel hurried. The wine list seemed quite good in my amateur opinion. It had a wide mix of prices and varietals. Overall: a good experience, but not outstanding.

Fred S.

I visited Kiki's for the first time on New Year's Eve in 1992, and I had two of my friends from France in tow... They loved the place, and so did I. I have returned to Kiki's a handful of times over the years (I would have gone more often but I haven't lived in Chicago for most of the years between 1992 and 2007), and it has never disappointed. The food is really good, and remarkably consistent. I have sampled the steak frites, veal chops, duck, and coq au vin - they are all first rate. The escargot are excellent, and the salads (goat cheese, house salad, and beet salad) have always been delicious, too. Kiki's has a great wine list - you can always get a nice bottle of wine in the 25 to 40 dollar range, but they also have good options on the high end of the price spectrum. The desserts I have tried (tarte aux pommes, creme brulee) have also been well prepared and very tasty. (The creme brulee never has a manhole cover of caramelized sugar on the top, which has happened far too often at other French bistros in the city.) In addition to having great food, Kiki's has a nice, warm atmosphere and very good service. They do a good job of taking care of customers like me (a non regular), and they clearly expend extra energy to keep their regular customers coming back. My only reason for taking away a star from Kiki's is that their steak frites, while very good, isn't as good as the steak frites at Brasserie Jo. (A restaurant that fails to come close to Kiki's in terms of service, atmosphere, or dessert quality.)

Vanessa K.

I went here for my birthday recently and everything was amazing. We went a little early and were in time to do the prix-fixe for $27 which was the way to go. In addition, we went on a Thursday so the house red and white wines were only $5 a glass (great deal). The bread is amazing and I think we went through two baskets during dinner. The butter is unsalted and I couldn't get enough of either. We all had the mussels for our appetizer. The mussels were a little big but were in a wonderful white wine, garlic, and herb sauce. Even after I finished the mussels I was sopping up the sauce with my bread. For an entree three of us ordered the steak with frites. It was a huge strip with a patty of herbed butter melting on top and a mound of shoestring frites. My only suggestion would be to order a little less done than you are normal. The steaks are thin and the medium was a little more towards medium well. One other in our party had the roasted chicken and it was great. The chicken was moist, tender, and very flavorful. For dessert we all had the chocolate mousse which was amazing. It was more like a gelato/ice cream that was warm than a mousse. Smooth, rich, and with the right hints of chocolate. It came with a dark chocolate sauce and some fresh berries. In addition, because we had a birthday we also had the chocolate mousse cake. This was amazing with a chocolate crust, fresh berries, and a great raspberry sauce that was the perfect counter for the chocolate. The servings are large and you get your money's worth here. In addition, they do not skimp you on the wine servings which they could do for only $5 a glass. Oh and valet is free!

Jason L.

This is one of the best restaurants in Chicago. Even if you are not a fan of French food, you will likely love this place. They seem to do everything right. The desserts are amazing. I love the steak pomme frites. The clams are also really good. Just a warning, if you aren't driving to Kiki's, the area is a little sketchy.

Mara S.

Thoroughly enjoyed a meal here last night. I was in with a fairly large group and the service was perfect. Drinks and bread baskets were promptly refilled, wine was flowing, servers were really helpful... James was our main server and I thought that he was excellent. Considering the size of the group (18ish), he was quick and caring. He was also very knowledgable about the dinner, drink and dessert menus. My food was delicious. I really enjoyed a steak and onion soup - yum. The onion soup is pretty rich, but pretty good too. The desserts were outstanding, but I don't usually complain about chocolate mousse or creme brulee :) (I shared with others, though I might have been able to eat them myself, they were so delicious). Overall it was a great experience and I am looking forward to going back with a smaller group to enjoy their more intimate setting.

Cali G.

I am in love with this restaurant. The food is out of this world... It's not your hip place to go to, but it is a great first date restaurant. I do have to say that the crowd is mostly over 40 years old. This restaurant is on my top 5 restaurants that I frequently dine at. Love it .... They have the best escargot, crab cakes, smoked salmon appetizers. It's so french..

FelineFluff F.

So cute. Kiki's has turned into one of my favorite spots in the city. A bit off "the path" but totally worth the extra few blocks for me. Sit outside in the summer or in the warm inviting interior and cuddle up to some of the best French cuisine in the city . A fabulous wine list that has every worker there ready to perfectly pair with my meal. I always feel welcome here. So maybe not the youngest, hippest crowd but definitely one of the most pleasant. A nice change of pace.

Steph H.

I love all things French which of course entails french food. My group and I sat outside on the patio area and the seating looked a bit tight but that was not the case. Although I would suggest some mosquito-repellent candles since I received a few bits on my legs while sitting outside but that really was the only umcomfortable aspect about the evening. The escargot was fabulous -- the perfect amount of garlic which complimented the bottle of Saviougon Blanc that Pascuel suggested. I have had better mussels though and I think that was because of the broth but this did not disuade my love for Kiki's Bistro. I had the Steak pommes frites -- we also had the beef tenderloin and the veal in a truffle sauce. For dessert we had the creme brulee, chocalate mouse cake with a rasberry sauce, blue-berry bread and Pascuel threw in the profiterolles since they're not to be missed. The service is fantastic, warm friendly and upbeat personality. Albeit my sister is one of their servers this review is not biased, I truely was impressed with all aspects of Kiki's. Kiki's is a great place to spend a romantic evening or even a place to dine with friends. If it's a nice evening I recommend outside, it's a more casual atmosphere as opposed to the inside which tends to be more initimate. As Zac B mentioned, "What I like the most about Kiki's isn't the food, or the ambience, but the comraderie shared between the customers and the staff. We have customers who have been coming here for over fifteen years" and that is true, my mum has been coming here for years and she spent the evening regaling us w. funny/romantic stories of Kiki's bistro and even how she was proposed to at Kiki's. I guarantee after one time at Kiki's, you two will come back and maybe even for the next 15 years. Apprcier l'exprience

G R.

Had dinner here last night for the first time. I've been past it so many times, wish I'd had tried it sooner. I had the Beef Tenderloin, medium rare. Many places screw that up, either raw and cold, or don't bother trying and serve it up with barely any pink or red as it should be. It was perfect, the first time. My friend had the lamb chops, well done. She said it also was perfect, she told me she always gets dried out overcooked stuff when she orders. Service was impeccable, we ordered a bottle of wine, the waitperson, kept an eye on our glasses and refilled as needed. Plates were cleared off promptly soon after we were done, and the next course put down promptly, timing is important. And they did this without hovering. I don't know how they did that, but I'm impressed. The other impressive thing was, as you were brought to your table, each employee that walked by said hello. They didn't just whisk by you. We found a street spot down the block, so no need to valet, but even he had a friendly hello as we walked in. You felt genuinely welcomed. For me it was a insane Friday. I did need to go out bad, I'm fussy so I've been told. I had not one complaint, this was just what I needed, great service, food, etc. I left Kiki's with a renewed spirit, it usually takes a weekend getaway to accomplish this. We'll be back again and again, as long as they keep it up.

Colleen B.

Kiki's served us cocktails on their patio--before they were even open. And I had one of the most delicious dirty martinis with blue cheese olives that I ever had. Great atmosphere, nice service for 4:30 in the afternoon when we were the only patrons. Way to go, Kiki's.

Krystin I.

Yummy, authentic food, in a cozy, warm atmosphere. NYC transplants might liken this to La Mirabelle with a better atmosphere. Service was fantastic by the busmen (so attentive), but less than par from the waitstaff. Wonderful steak au poivre, but Bouillabase was a bit bland. Still, the most authentic French restaurant I've been to yet in Chicago.

eric r.

We have been to Kiki's many times in the past and have always spoken very highly of this classic french style bistro. However, we are extremely disappointed with our visit last Monday for two reasons. First, my wife ordered the Butt steak medium. It arrived to the table rare. Second, I orders Coq Au Vin, Technically it looked beautiful. However, it tasted as if the dish was made with barbecue sauce. Considering I regularly make recipes from Mastering the Art of French Cooking (to include Coq Au Vin) this was truly an unwelcome taste revelation. Kiki's had historically been a great value (consistently well executed meals, a great wine cellar, a very attentive staff, and a great owner consistently on the premises). We truly hope this was just a holiday anomaly.

Robyn T.

This is one of my new favorite restaurants. It's a taste of Paris in Chicago with great outdoor seating; an urban escape. Our waiter has been at the restaurant since it opened and could not have been more friendly. The French onion soup was delicious - lots of gooey cheese on top. The duck ravioli was very nice as well. Steaks were very good and came with lots of crispy pommes frites. The creme brulee was good (chocolate at the bottom is a nice twist on a classic) but the chocolate dessert on the menu is amazing melt in your mouth good! I think this is a great place for a date or a place to take your parents for dinner.

Kate B.

I L-O-V-E this restaurant. It probably doesn't hurt that my nickname is Kiki and I told the owner and he gave me a beret with their logo on it. So nice and so gracious! But their food is really good. I started with the escargot which I love and rarely eat. It was full of garlic, which automatically earns you points in my book and the little guys weren't tough or chewy, they were perfect. Then I had the Steak-Au-Poivre (sp?) with pomme frites - because in my book about steak there is nothing better than steak covered in fresh cracked peppercorns. It too was good, and I like my meat cooked medium-well, and I feel that sometimes its hard to understand what medium-well really means. It means that yes there is some pink in the middle, and at Kikis yes there was some pink in the middle. On to the dessert, which is really my favorite part of any meal. I had the creme brulee. And as my spoon cracked the perfectly crusted sugar topping and dove to the bottom, to my surprise there was chocolate in the bottom! How perfect! It is to this day still the best creme brulee that I have ever had. And I was going to join my Dad and his girlfriend here for dinner once, but I got sick and couldn't go, so my Dad asked the waiter for a creme brulee to go and they gave it to him in the bowl with the special serving spoon. It made my sniffles disappear for a few minutes! Plus their service is top notch, in all the times I have eaten here there has never been bad service. And when the owner is around, which is most weekend nights, he stops over to the table to see how everything is.

Marissa D.

Kiki's Bistro is a solid 4 stars, a great stand-by with the charm of a typical busy French bistro. Despite how busy it was, service was efficient. The french onion soup was delicious - I wish I had ordered that. But my salad of asparagus and goat cheese was very tasty...mmm...goat cheese. I ate every last bite. Steak Frite was, of course, very good. And yes, I did eat all the frites on my plate. Which is impressive considering it was enough for a small family to live off of for at least a week. Totally worth my feelings of regret the next day. Everyone else seemed to enjoy their food, although I can't remember what they had. I do know that George wasn't a huge fan of the Cassoulet - he thought it was too heavy. It did, in fact, look like a giant bowl of gravy. Profiteroles. These were good. How I ate most of them after consuming 2 pieces of buttered bread, one goat cheese salad, one entire slab of steak, 15 servings of frites, and other assorted nibbles from various plates is beyond me. In conclusion, Kiki's Bistro has good food. And especially good frites. I will be back.

Melissa H.

What can I say about Kiki's Bistro? Honestly, I was a little disappointed. The menu selection was very small and the food was not bad but it wasn't great. The favorite thing on the menu was the lemon tart, which another yelper claimed to be boring. In my opinion, I think this restaurant is better for groups than for couples. I can think of other French restaurants in the city with a better selection, better food, and a more intimate atmosphere for couples. I might consider re-visiting with friends, but even that is not likely.

Bridget L.

I loved the vibe in Kiki's. Very traditional French Bistro. The crowd is a bit on the older side, but personally, I don't mind such a crowd at all. I always feel like older people know more than me about quality, so where they go, I will follow (and I'm not talking about certain "God's Waiting Room" buffets.) The food at Kiki's is classic French, and the portions are perfect: not too big, not too small. I had the veal special and it was very good. We also tried some of their standards - frog legs ("Little Chicken" - thanks MD!); onion soup (Wow), and steak frites. Everything was delish. The wine list was fairly extensive too. Check it out.

Erin C.

Let me preface this review with the fact that we had the before 630pm prix fixe for $25. The atmosphere was cute, but i have 2 complaints. First, kiki, please oil the kitchen door. It squeaked obnoxiously every single time someone went in or out of the kitchen. As there weren't many people in the restaurant, it was extremely noticeable and completely distracting. Second, the beautiful wood floor may look nice, but in a quiet restaurant, I felt I was waking the dead by clomping across it in my heels. Not to mention, I nearly killed myself on its slippery sheen. Tread cautiously, ladies. Instead of wine tonight, my husband and I had cocktails and beer. My husband had 2 chimays which he really enjoyed, despite the waiter's horrible pour. I had a french martini, blech, and a kir royale, lovely! I started my meal with the beet salad, which was nice, but rather plain. A little goat cheese would have topped this off rather well. As for the hazelnut vinaigrette, I really couldn't taste it at all. Second, I had the steak frites which was ok. I really like hot food, and this was just not. The herbed butter on top was not even melting! Since the restaurant was nearly desolate, there is no excuse for that. The frites were good, but what frites aren't? Third, I tried the chocolate mousse which was forgettable. I really wanted to like this restaurant and was really expecting better service. Again, I went super early on a Monday night (date night for us) and maybe the restaurant's A-squad just wasn't working. I think I'll have to try this place again on a different night and NOT order the prix fixe. I think they deserve another chance.

Ellen G.

Kiki's is classic bistro food done really well. If you're craving straightforward French fare this is the place. My husband said the decor is a bit like a mall restaurant but I thought it was cute, even if a little bit cliche.

Ellen P.

A friend recommended Kiki's, and after becoming a somewhat frequent diner, I've yet to have a bad meal here. I especially love their Steak Fritte, and the French Onion Soup is to die for. Desserts are magnifique, as is the wine selection - Kiki knows how to buy French wine, and even bottles are reasonably priced. And last, but certainly not least, considering it's the most genuinely French of the bistros I've tried, the staff is always friendly, and the atmosphere one of bonhomie. Note the free valet mentioned by another reviewer - important plus!

Laura P.

My husband and I went here to celebrate an anniversary and we left feeling like we missed out on what had potential to be a really good experience. The location is good and easy to get to and they have free valet. Inside the restaurant is nice with a warm feel but a little bit "stuffy". We looked over the menu and were close to deciding when the waiter came over. He seemed very uninterested in us and almost annoyed that we weren't quite ready. He offered no help and didn't even tell us what the specials were!! So we quickly made our decisions and placed our order. We started with the french onion soup which was very good with just a hint of sweetness. My husband ordered the POT AU FEU which was basically pot roast cooked in broth. The meat was flavorful & tender and the vegetables tasted very fresh. I had the Margret de Conard avec son confit and it was only so so. The duck was flavorless and the wild rice tasted like plastic. The red cabbage was great and it saved the meal for me. For dessert we had creme brulee & Profiteroles. The creme brulee was just ok, I have had better elsewhere. The profiteroles were great! Everything blended together very well, the pastry was light & fluffy, the ice cream was very creamy and the chocolate sauce brought everything together. Overall I felt that our dinner was not worth the hundred dollars that we shelled out for it and while I might stop by for a soup & dessert lunch if I was in the neighborhood, I would not go back for a special dinner.

Karen M.

Kiki's Bistro is a real gem. Upon entering the restaurant, you feel as though you just walked into a Parisian bistro, with it's lovely colors, appealing decor, and lit candles floating from the ceiling. The atmosphere is quaint and charming. The food is extraordinary. Everything is cooked to perfection and the service is flawless. I recently dined there with my parents for lunch, and Dad ordered coq au vin while Mom had the liver and onions. Both meals where succulent and delicious, prepared with the subtle and savory flavors of true French cuisine. Our service was impeccable, classy and lacked any pretentiousness that you sometimes find in French restaurants. Since it was a celebration of sorts, we all had a dessert, too, and they were worth the guilty pleasure of enjoying a rich treat after a meal. The profiteroles were amazing, the best I've ever had. The creme brulee is out-of-this-world. Kiki is always there to greet his guests, and he is a gracious host, making sure his customers are enjoying their experience and that everything being served is up to his high standards. When you go, expect the crowd to be full of loyal patrons who are elegant and sophisticated, but unpretentious. Clearly they are there for the food and Kiki's warm hospitality. Bottom line: This is the place to go for French "comfort food" done right and when you leave, you will be promising yourself not to wait too long to return.

Dane K.

One of my favorite French bistros in Chicago... Food is very dependable. Somewhat standard French fare, done very well. Atmosphere is cute... They have a good outdoor seating area that's reasonably quiet. Kiki (a guy!) walks around and talks to his customers... It's nice to see that. You can even practice your French with him. Street parking isn't impossible, but they also have valet.

Scott M.

Love the steak au poivre and pomme frittes!!! The mussels are very good as well. Very old establishment but still serves very good French food.

Megan T.

I went to Kiki's for dinner last weekend with a group of six people. I had been to Kiki's in the past, but it had been a few years back. First of all, what a pleasant experience to be greeted by Mrs. Kiki and Kiki, the proprieter. I love when the owner of the place is hands on. My first impression was that the atmosphere was very warm and friendly. The crowd was varied, there were families, groups, older and younger folks and couples on dates. Kiki's seems to offer something for everyone. The food was very good - I think above average compared to other French bistros in town. I started with the beet salad which was very good and the coq au vin was much better than any I have had lately. It had a lot of meat and the broth was tasty. Everyone at the table was happy with their apps and entrees. Don't miss the dessert. The creme brulee - wow! Delicious. The chocolate on the bottom really makes it. All is all, Kiki's delivered. The staff was very friendly and we did not feel rushed at all. I look forward to dining there again soon.

Justin S.

A great place to take a date or someone if you've lost a bet because Virginia Tech lost to Wisconsin in the final second of a basketball game, though I digress. They give you lots of bread and butter so already I'm liking it a lot. The crab cake was a good appetizer, though rather small. The dinner of duck breast with red cabbage was great. So good. Two of my favorite things on a plate, cabbage and duck. The flavors excite the palate with the sweet of duck fat and the spice of red cabbage. The wine our waitress selected to accompany the meal went very well. Very great find thank you yelp again, though next time lets hope the Hokies don't lose.

Jennifer K.

This is a wonderful French bistro! When I first entered the restaurant for dinner, I was sort of surprised to only see...well...old businessmen. Thankfully, as the night progressed, the crowd became more diverse. I don't know, my friend and I were sort of uncomfortable as the only college students there. Anywho, the waiter was kind enough to seat us at a different seating location where the table was not rocking! But the service was kind of slow from the start. It took about 15 minutes for the waiter to get our orders. We ordered crab cakes, mussels provencale, grilled scallops, and beef tenderloin. The crab cakes and mussels were absolutely delicious! And I adored the grilled scallops! However, we had to send the steak back because it wasn't medium, it was rare. It came back to our table burnt. I would have loved to have given the place a higher score, but the slow service and less than perfect beef tenderloin sort of marred it. Nonetheless, it was quite delicious!

Tiffany S.

Delicious! We had the steak pomme frittes and lamb stew. The lamb is sooooo tender. Steak ordered medium well came out more medium-ish (dark pink insides). Mussels and mushroom soup for appetizer. Those were delicious too. And for dessert, blueberry bread pudding (blueberries on top, not IN the bread) with vanilla ice cream. Wash it all down with a bottle of Clos de May. Absolutely great service. I almost want to take off half a star for the room temperature bread and hard butter, but nah. It was quite a perfect night anyways!

Colleen F.

Went here on a Sunday night. It was not warm enough to sit outside but it looks like they have a nice patio. I am a lover of French food and this place was good but I feel like there are better places in the city. The clientele was very old like 60+. Perhaps that's because it was a Sunday but it is rare that my husband and I go somewhere and are the youngest people in the place. We made reservations via open table and received a confirmation, however, they had no record of it when we arrived. It was not a problem as the place was less than half full but on a busy night I imagine this would be a problem. We ordered then venison and the rack of lamb. They were good but I expect to be blown away by French food especially for what most French restaurants charge. The blueberry bread pudding was better than I expected. I agree with another poster that the food came out unbearably hot. I imagine this is not due to freshness but from bad kitchen timing and food sitting in a warmer too long. Overall, I would not discourage anyone from going there but I won't be making any special trips either.

L L.

Took the parents and in-laws there last weekend, and it was a HUGE hit. My parents lived in France for years and loved it. My mom said she's never had such tasty, authentic pate (foie gras) in the States. The wine was tasty, cocktails were strong, service was great (so French - thorough, yet totally inoffensive), and my salmon was delicious. Definitely a fantastic option for classic French cooking.

Lindsay W.

My favorite French restaurant in Chicago, hands down. Not pretentious, yet so reminiscent of Parisian bistros. Everyone who works there, whether it be the host, owner, sommelier, and server, approaches you with warmth, knowledge, and a joie de vivre. The setting is intimate, and their outdoor patio is just amazing. I had the escargot with pernod to start, the coq au vin for an entree and the crepes suzette for dessert. Incredible all around. They are currently doing a prix fixe menu for $20.09, which I will be sure to not pass up. Bon appetit!!

Mark S.

I've had great meals here, and one so-so meal. On that one occasion, the meal wasn't so bad, but the service was a let down. Normal story- special event, wanting to be treated right, but got treated wrong- our waiter very clearly was a guy in training. I understand the need to train a waiter, but the table shouldn't suffer for it and they pretty much let him go with little supervision. I felt bad for him, but hate when the guy disappears for long periods of time and I get forgotten. The other times I've been here everything went great, but those were week nights. So Kiki looses a star for that and I started going to La Sardine more often for similar dishes for less $(but also with less ambiance).

Steve F.

The good points: the restaurant was attractive and the service (by Abdul I think) was excellent. The bad points: (1) The food was ok but not excellent - the opinion of two of the five of us who are French and know French food. (2) There was a party nearby who was drunk and rowdy but the owner did nothing about it. Finally things got to the point that five tables said "shhhh" at the same time (amazing but true - you could tell how annoyed everyone was. An argument broke out between the offending table and another one nearby but still the owner did nothing. Bottom line - there are too many really good restauants in Chicago to return to Kiki's.

Grace F.

A nice French bistro experience. The service was quite good and very courteous - they were perfectly fine waiting 45 minutes for me and my friend to place our orders (we were too busy talking to look at the menu). I had the French onion soup, which was delicious, and the duck ravioli (wasn't hungry enough for the duck entree, sadly, as I love duck). My companion had the coq au vin, and pronounced it "quite good", which was high praise considering how she had been complaining about not being able to find good coq au vin outside of France (a bit of a snob, I suppose, but I like to think she just has high standards). I found the clientele on a busy Saturday night to be of varying ages (not the seniorly experience others have mentioned/complained of), and the vibe is very convivial. Some annoying people at the table beside us, but such is life. All in all, it was a very pleasant evening, topped off with a fabulous creme brulee. I would recommend this bistro, especially if you're in the area.

Stephanie L.

YUMMY! This little french bistro was so good. First, I went with a group of girlfriends...it was a perfect place because you can get a little loud and you just fit in with the buzz of the restaurant. They have free valet, which is really nice. So we sat down and got a bottle of wine...I would say a middle of the range priced bottle but unfortunately not high quality (def way overpriced bottle of chardonnay). We ordered a couple of apps...a salad, some mushrooms and scallops...delicious. They were all good. Then our waitress came over to get our dinner order but we werent quite ready because we were all talking...she proceeded in saying "well just to let you know, our kitchen is going to be closing and they are waiting on your order so if you could try to make a decision in the next couple of minutes." This is my pet- peeve...I HATE when restaurants do this...you know, its like are you serious. We arent going to be here all night but you shouldnt rush people to order. Plus, the restaurant was still like half full. I mean I would understand if it was like 10PM but it was like 910PM on a Wed with the restaurant still hopping. So that kind of made me a little...eeehhhhh. I just hate that so much. So anyway, we ordered and I got the Ahi Tuna...YUMMY! It was so good. The food was great. I was just a little put off by our waitress saying that. We had the chocolate mousse and it was delicious. I would go back. Its definitely worth a night out!

Carson H.

I love the food at Kiki's, and there is something about the name I think is so cute. Like I want to get another dog and name her Kiki or something. ANYways, if you like Kiki's and want a facial, go to Tiffani Kim and you can get lunch from Kiki's! Best of both worlds!

t H.

The pros: Complimentary Valet parking Kiki himself is very charming and hospitable Nice French Country decor The food was just OK. The cons: It is authentically French. The staff ignores you. Even Kiki went looking for our waiter when he saw us sitting there waiting to order. I've had better French food at a lower cost.

Levy R.

I've only had a few drinks but it was well appointed - good service and close.

Jacquelyn G.

I went to Kiki's for the first time this past weekend. I had actually never even heard of this place and randomly noticed it in one of the foodie emails I get. Disappointed that Brasserie Jo is now closed, my husband and I decided to give Kiki's a try. We had an 8 p.m. reservation on a Saturday night and when we got there it was packed. People were in the bar area waiting to be seated - very busy. We had just enough time to order a drink at the bar before Kiki whisked us to our table. Now, not having gone there before, I don't know if it's always so cute, cozy and warm, or if part of the charming lighting (clear globes with votive candles hung from the ceiling) was due to the holiday season. Whatever the case, I loved the decor. Onto the good stuff... My husband and I both started with the French onion soup with gruyere cheese. I haven't had French onion soup in years after a bad experience, but I definitely chose the right place to reintroduce it. It was really delicious and truth be told, I was full after just having that. That aside, I didn't stop there... I had the beef tenderloin for my main, which I requested medium. It was a little closer to medium well but that didn't stop me from devouring all eight ounces... Potatoes au gratin were served on the side, but they weren't my favorite. I stopped after one bite because obviously we were going to be moving onto dessert. We debated between the profiteroles and the blueberry bread pudding and opted for the latter, based on our server's recommendation. Despite the fact that I was truly full, we finished the whole thing, no problem. All of the food was very hearty and tasty, and I truly had a difficult time deciding because so many items on the menu sounded great. Clearly that gives me a reason to return.

Liz K.

Loved it. Best french food I've eaten in Chicago.

Jen P.

My husband and I went to Kiki's for our 4th anniversary after a recommendation from friends that are regulars. When we walked in, I thought that the decor might have been a little over the top, trying too hard to be all Frenchy, but I quickly forgot all about that when the maitre d gushed over us being there for our anniversary. I'm a sucker for friendliness and personal attention. Kiki himself seated us, as he does for everyone, then our waiter promptly aknowledged us and got us set with cocktails. He was the perfect amount of attentive without feeling rushed so we could relax and enjoy being together and savoring our dinner. We indulged in some champers of course, also the pate and it was divine. I had the duck and it was amazing as everyone else suggested. Creme brulee of course was also fantastic. Just overall cozy and romantic, without being stuffy or cold. I did kind of feel like I was in the movie cartoon, Ratatouille, but we had fun with it. Will def be back!

Eric M.

I want to rate Kiki's higher, but have to admit I was let down. The service was alright but our waiter had a very thick accent and it was very hard to understand many of the specials. The food itself was decent, but for the price didn't seem anything special. I look forward to checking it out, especially since Julia Child claimed it as her fave Chicago spot.

Haley L.

Such a wonderful night here!!! My boyfriend and I went here on a double date with a friends new boyfriend and we had such a great experience! Our server was James and he was helpful and friendly and would ask for him again when we go back. One of us was a little afraid of French food but even he converted. I ordered the salad with goat cheese and it was sooo good, i cleaned my plate, which i rarely do. Then i had the duck ravioli appetizer and it was equally as good. But i have to stress how good the salad was. My beau order the escargot and frog legs (two separate appetizers) The escargot was tender, perfectly seasoned and had a lot of extra garlicky sauce to sop up with the bread. The frog legs were in this great creamy sauce that was like a chowder. The other couple ordered pork tenderloin that was great, and it was a lot of food (it was the only entree ordered) and some sort of goat cheese tart that i didn't get to try. The drinks were great, especially the after dinner drinks. The creme brulee was slightly different than the norm with a layer of hard chocolate on the bottom was the perfect end. It was a little on the pricey side for 4 graduate students - our bill with3 cocktails, 1 bottle of wine, and dinner was 120 with tip and the other couple was 80ish with tip. But it was well worth it! All four of us loved it there, the food was incredible and i highly recommend it.

Jasmine D.

Sophisticated but unpretentious. Also, I totally inhaled an order of escargots without even blinking, it was so good. My companions were less than pleased with me.

Layla C.

Really good. We had the foie gras and tarte de provence to start, the duck with leg confit for the main course, and the creme brulee and the pear dessert after dinner. Everything was great, and the bottle of wine that we got with it was fabulous. The duck was cooked perfectly. The tarte de provence was probably my favorite dish, if I had to choose. The only thing I was not impressed with was the bread that they brought to the table when we sat down - it was rather dry. The crowd here tends to be older, so if that bothers you, be aware. We are younger and did not feel out of place.

Manj B.

I went to Kiki's Bistro for the first time this weekend and enjoyed a great meal in their outdoor area with my boyfriend. The weather was actually very nice, and minus the mosquitos (that seemed to have been bitten me maybe 20 times while my boyfriend only once), it was a romantic and quiet dinner - I'm not sure how it is inside. Everything we had was absolutely delicious. I don't remember the names, but I would recommend the scallop appetizer, the shrimp pasta and the lamb chops - everything was done to perfection. The service was a bit slow, but other than that, the waiter was great. Had good recommendations and was just overall a very nice guy.

Amy M.

Actually came here for a business lunch and the atmosphere was perfect. We were given a table a little further away from most diners. Service was attentive, but not overbearing and the food was excellent, including the wonderful desserts. Not somewhere I would go for lunch everyday, but it's a good alternative for days when you want to go a little fancy to celebrate or impress a client.

Little Miss Sunshine B.

My husband took me here to celebrate my 25th birthday. Besides being one of Oprah's favorite restaurants, it is also one of mine. The food is excellent. The service is great and it is beautifully decorated and cozy. So romantic... Cest Bon!

Stephanie H.

I dined here last night, it wasn't that busy for a Thursday night, 9:00. The service was great, very helpful. We had a great bottle of wine. Appetizers - Smoked Salmon, which was lovely and the Mushrooms, Amazing!!! Entrees - I ordered the Tuna, which tasted very 'smokey' I wouldn't recommend it (although the spinach, onion, and peppers had great flavor), the Duck was fantastic! I would go back just to order this. We had some great cheeses for dessert, and an apple tart....the caramel was great! Overall a very nice experience. I will definitely be going back.

Jacob K.

This was once my favorite French restaurant in the city with wonderful food, reasonable prices and good service. Unfortunately the last 2 or 3 time I went there the food was mediocre, the service was so-so and the prices have gone up. There are many better places in Chicago fro French food than Kiki's.

Alissa F.

If you are craving French food, Kiki's has delicious and buttery traditional French cuisine...and the wait staff is always very personable, funny, and attentive! It was a bit loud last time we were there, but i think there was a Bastille Day celebration going on, so that could explain the din!

Rita W.

We went here on Saturday night and we all decided to partake in the pre-fix menu for restaurant week. I had the onion soup, duck confit entree, and creme brulee to finish. The onion soup was standard french onion soup - no complaints there. The duck came prepared in two ways with a braised duck leg and pan seared slices of duck - served with sweet sauerkraut, wild rice, and some roasted carrots. I could have done without the braised part of the duck, but I loved the accompanment of the sweet sauerkraut with the roast duck - they went perfectly together. In fact I liked the sauerkraut so much I probably could just order a side of that next time I go back to Kiki's. My creme brulee was awesome - it had a chocolate bottom and I was expecting a hard chocolate crust but it was soft and not too overwhelming. I was so stuffed by dessert but the creme brulee was so good I made myself finish it! My boyfriend chose the friscasse mushroom starter, with salmon and the poached pear dessert. I would have passed on the mushrooms as they just tasted like sauteed mushrooms, but his salmon was done perfectly and his pear dessert was very good! I wish I had enough room to eat more of his dessert! My other friend chose the lamb entree and the lamb was excellent! Served on two kabobs on top of rice, the lamb was tender but roasted to perfection! Kiki's is very romantic inside but yet there is a good mix of different restaurant patrons ranging from couples, familes with children, and large groups of friends coming out for dinner. I did notice that everyone was dressed very nicely. Overall I had a great experience and wouldn't mind coming back for another tasting of Kiki's bistro.

Bess R.

Two words: chocolate crepes. mmm. Dinner was excellent too, of course. I went to Kiki's for the prix fixe cheese menu (ended March 30) - goat cheese and leek tart first, then steak with gorgonzola sauce and potatoes au gratin. Everything I had tasted wonderful, and the atmosphere was very welcoming (unlike many french restaurants). I was there for almost 3 hours with my friends, talking and continuing to eat and drink with no pressure to leave. I will definitely bring my parents here when they come to visit.

R M.

Had the duck. Excellent. No problems with bringing in your own bottle of wine. I felt like I was the youngest person in the restaurant. Free valet!

Kevin L.

Kiki's is consistently great traditional French fare. This is not a trendy spot, but sanctuary for when you want to be guaranteed a great meal with responsive service. I tend to order entrees off their specials menu, but always start with their escargot.

Tony C.

all kitsch, no substance. we went on a week when the restaurant was doing some tie-in with the Toulouse-Lautrec exhibit @ the AIC. server was sporting faux French accent, there was a Audrey Tautou flic on the projector and the entire restaurant was blasting bistro music. "but the food?" you ask. How dare this waste of space occupy the same block as mk? Apparently there is "Old World" French, and there's just stale French. When Bourdain talks about the "Good Old Days", Kiki's is not what he had in mind. Out of all the faux bistros in the city, this ranks, up there with Bistro Margot, as the most unsavory. Nothing tasted good and the menu is uncompletely uninspiring. O how I wish Tournesol was still around.

K B.

Consistency is key, and something most restaurants strive for but rarely achieve. Kiki's has been consistently good for over 10 years that I've been coming here. This is great, hearty French food - nothing very fancy (but a bistro is not supposed to be fancy, though most Americans don't realize it - "bistro" is from the Russian word "quickly", as in a speedy meal). The owners are very often out and about, talking to tables and being very hands on. Although this is in no way a cheap meal, I think that for the value it's one of the most impressive bistros in Chicago. The atmosphere is pretty casual and lively, and the crowd is very mixed. Try it, you won't be disappointed.

T M.

We got the old bait and switch on this one. Made a reservation expecting to partake in the Yelp Favorites Week $25 prix fixe dinner special. Unfortunately, there was no prix fixe dinner menu available, despite my having made note of it with my initial reservation made several weeks ago. In fact, there was no record of my reservation! Service was very very slow, it seems there was only one server for the full patio. I felt for our server, who seemed overwhelmed. However understaffed, the patio was very pleasant to dine on. The food was marginal at best. I was really really excited for this one, but it was definitely a miss. Stick with Le Bouchon.

Jessica M.

I went to Kiki's with a friend - it was the first time for both of us. The restaurant itself is cute. It's got a unique look -- sort of like rustic ski lodge meets eccentric French. The service was .... serviceable. Our waitress didn't waste any time on pleasantries and was pretty invisible. That's kind of ok I guess, though I might have appreciated a bit more friendliness. The food was fairly good. We got the special appetizer -- muscles with sausage in a buttery cream sauce. It was marvelous. The steak pommes frites was ok, though not great, and the desert (blueberry bread pudding) was good, but again, not anything I'll particularly remember. All in all, I'll probably return because it's close by and I love French food. But I think Marche, La Sardine, Brasserie Jo, and Le Bouchon are better.

Mandee M.

For lunch I normally get the Salmon Salad and the French onion soup which is excellent. I also liked the roast duck, which I think came with a side of potato and fresh steamed veggies. They will let you order carry out, and they won't ever advertise this, but since I worked right around the corner, and was craving their french onion soup, they actually gave it to me in the regular bowls that they used and let me bring it back to them later that night. I've never had a bad experience here.

vivian c.

we had a restaurant.com gift certificate and thoroughly enjoyed the food. we had the mussels (tasty) to start, half off wine (wed night), duck (very moist and delicious), and profiteroles (delish!) and creme brulee with chocolate that did not disappoint. the staff and maitre'd were very warm and accomodating. i would definitely go back!

Rae M.

Visited Kiki's multiple times. We loved this place more in the past. Service is great yet the food is just OK in my opinion or maybe it was just the fact we were just right after our Barcelona trip where we explored vast variety of European cuisine. They had great salmon appetizer but our main dish was not very exciting. We still like the décor of this place and will probably visit in the future.

Nicki M.

I went to Kiki's last night for Restaurant Week. The food was good so I would have given it 4 stars but for the fact that we had a 7:45 reservation and weren't seated until almost 8:30. I started with the french onion soup, which was great. Then I had the lamb kebabs medium rare. They were good but I took one home to save room for dessert. The creme brulee was absolutely amazing with the chocolate on the bottom. Yum! I would probably go back - I'm assuming that maybe Kiki's wasn't entirely prepared for the influx of people during Restaurant Week. However, this place is in the middle of absolute nowhere and the neighborhood was a little scary.

Erin A.

Love the atmosphere, reminded me of when I was in France. Great service, unobtrusive but our waiter was around when we needed him. Outstanding menu, I went with rack of lamb, it was perfect. We had 3 appetizers, both pate's (smooth and country) and mussels with a mushroom sauce all three were perfection. I was too stuffed for dessert but the table ordered chocolate mouse which was actually comped for no reason by Kiki's. Can't wait to go back. Also, our reservation was at 6:30 so it was a pretty old (65+) crowd when we got there but the crowd got younger as the night went on.

Dan D.

One of our most treasured establishments! Kiki's is quite a find in fine Chicago dining. My wife and I were engaged here and have returned many times. The ambiance is that of a quaint French country villa. The menu is well populated with traditional options as well as fantastic seasonal entres. The staff is pleasant, helpful, and especially giving of wine suggestions. One of the many benefits to living near Chicago

Lee W.

Kiki's is a nice a spot for French food in the city. I had a trio of "classique" dishes -- escargots, steak frittes and creme brule -- and was a very happy camper. Of course, the dirty martini and bottle sauvignon blanc probably made me even happier! We sat outside, which was very lovely (it was the perfect night!) and our server was very pleasant. I'd definitely recommend trying Kiki's instead of Mon Ami or Brasserie Jo's. Plus, to top it off -- Kiki is the most adorable man ever and is very welcoming of his guests -- he makes a point to talk to all of them. Definitely give it a try !

Beebe G.

My husband took me here for our wedding anniversary. We were seated in the best seat in the house where we could see the entire restaurant. Our server was very nice and knew what she was talking about. We both thoroughly enjoyed our entire meal with wine and the dessert, an apple galette, was extremely delectable! Tres bien!

Miss O.

i went here last friday. i ordered the crab cakes - plus they were fresh - minus - as fresh as it can be in chicago. as my main entree i ordered the rack of lamb. for some reason i thought it would be a lot better than it actually was. it lacked flavor. my boyfriend's french onion soup was fantastic. so was the steak and pomme frites. if i were to go here again - i would stick to the classics.

elizabeth n.

What a gem! Kiki's has been at the top of my list of places to try and I finally got the chance on Saturday night. My fiance and I had 7:30 reservations and we were seated right away at a cozy little corner table that we were very happy with. We did happen to comment on the fact that we were the youngest people in the restaurant by about 30 years, but I can't complain too much since the service is great and the food was wonderful. My fiance ordered the french onion soup which I tried and then kept dipping my spoon into for more mouthfuls! And I don't usually like french onion soup- it was delicious! Then he had the scallops which were enormous and so good, and I had the shrimp pasta which was penne pasta with shrimp, sun dried tomatoes and trios of bell peppers. YUM! We ordered the lemon tart for dessert and cleaned the plate as well. Highly recommended and I can't wait to go back!

Andrew J.

Went there for lunch. Enjoyed the decor very much. The food was very good, as was the wine. Will be back for dinner for the full experience with live music.

kiki m.

we love that kiki seats us himself. the food is superb, never disappointing. the ambiance is quaint. i think this place generally attracts and older audience....40's +. i remember noticing that when i first ate here in my 20's. my husand says this place is one of the few in the city that does scallops right. i love they way they prepare duck, their beet salad, and practically everything on the menu!

Ruth G.

This restaurant was exactly what we were looking for. Three of us met there to catch up and found the decor inviting, the service excellent, great wine selection, fantastic food, and quiet enough to have a great conversation. I had the quail, my friends had the salmon and mussels. All dishes were wonderful. I would definitely go back again.

maddalen t.

I was taken to a biz lunch at Kiki's, and have to name it one of the best restaurants I've ever been to. And I'm from NY, so I am spoiled. I risked the calves' liver (been disappointed many times), and Kiki's served me the most perfectly done dish of these morsels I've had since 30 years ago, when a retired chef from the Four Seasons prepared it for me. The sides (red cabbage and mashed potatoes) were perfection, the waiter was attentive and charming, and even though I turned down dessert, he noted the gleam in my eye when he said "lemon tart," and acted accordingly. Lagniappe! Just absolutely wonderful.

Tammy N.

i've been eating here for 12 years. i've never had a meal that wasn't great. it's not your typical french restaurant in the US. the people who own this place are french but minus the attitude. the food you eat here is hearty and delicious and makes you feel warm inside. the interior is very rustic, again, not your typical french restaurant in the US. it's very family friendly, as long as your kids are use to french food, in the sense that the staff make kids feel welcome. everyone i've ever sent here comes back telling me they loved it. i also like the fact that it is a bit off the beaten chicago path.

penny h.

I had never heard of this French restaurant however i cannot wait to go back. The food was delicious and that is all that mattered to me. The look of the restaurant threw me off a bit and the service was average.. but the food... very ..very ...vey good.

Liliana S.

Hands down, my favorite French restaurant. The restaurant itself is somewhat hidden, but its beautiful inside. Perfectly lit for dinner, a huge wine list, unbelievable escargots, unbelievable food and by far the best creme brulee I have ever had, except of course, for the one in Paris!

professorsmarty z.

I give this resaturant 3 stars because I found the food to be decent but not that great. In terms of authentic French cuisine, the preparation of the dishes weren't really up to par given the prices they charge. I ordered the Pate which came on toasted Brioche. That was good and there was a generous amount for everyone. However, my seared duck breast was over done and not pink and tender as it should be. The other people in my party also had decent but not great food. In terms of atmosphere, the restaurant is really cute and it's a great date setting. But for real French food addicts, try another place.

Justin S.

A great place to take a date or someone if you've lost a bet because Virginia Tech lost to Wisconsin in the final second of a basketball game, though I digress. They give you lots of bread and butter so already I'm liking it a lot. The crab cake was a good appetizer, though rather small. The dinner of duck breast with red cabbage was great. So good. Two of my favorite things on a plate, cabbage and duck. The flavors excite the palate with the sweet of duck fat and the spice of red cabbage. The wine our waitress selected to accompany the meal went very well. Very great find thank you yelp again, though next time lets hope the Hokies don't lose.

Carson H.

I love the food at Kiki's, and there is something about the name I think is so cute. Like I want to get another dog and name her Kiki or something. ANYways, if you like Kiki's and want a facial, go to Tiffani Kim and you can get lunch from Kiki's! Best of both worlds!

t H.

The pros: Complimentary Valet parking Kiki himself is very charming and hospitable Nice French Country decor The food was just OK. The cons: It is authentically French. The staff ignores you. Even Kiki went looking for our waiter when he saw us sitting there waiting to order. I've had better French food at a lower cost.

Kate B.

I do not doubt the quality of most of Kiki's menu items but as a vegetarian, this restaurant is a challenge and you will feel stranded. Aside from the desserts (which are quite good), there really aren't too many vegetarian options on the menu. I had an endive salad, one of the limited options, and it did not impress.

Kerry D.

Kiki's is as fabulous as Kiki himself is. I have gone once with students (I am a high school French teacher). Kiki was the person who set up the reservation, helped me coordinate meals, and even worked with me on a prix-fixe selection that would work for my low-income students to be able to experience his restaurant. The service and food were great, and Kiki even came out to converse with my pupils in French. Since it was a prix-fixe meal, I cannot account for what their off the prix-fixe meal grid looks like, though I'm sure it's even better than what we experienced. Wonderful food, and what a great experience for my students. Would definitely return.

Linda G.

This is a restaurant where the owner (Kiki) is present. He drives there every day in his little red Citroen. When owners are in their restaurant (and sober) You get a better restaurant. Since I'm a Chicagoan, I ordered two of the four choices of the Foie gras appetizers and then, to heap on more guilt, the Foie de Veau for a main course. (I'll say an extra Rosary or 2). All of the food was excellent. They have professional waiters who can advise on wine selections and food choices. The atmosphere is comfortable, loft-space style - big wooden posts and beams not too airy, and not too fussy. Good Taste. Free Valet Parking.

Keith A.

Now this is what you'd call old school and classic french food. It wasn't in the real heavy butter and cream style, but this is exactly in that rustic style that makes french food so much fun when done right. I went here a few nights ago to meet up with a group of friends for a burgundy themed wine dinner. We had some out of towners in and needed a proper establishment for the great wines we were going to be drinking. Since there we were 9 strong in the group, we ordered up several different appetizers for everyone to sample. We got the escargot, mussels and shrimp provencal. The escargot was extremely good and the sauce that was with it was great. The shrimp were good, but nowhere near the level of the escargot or the mussels. The mussels were meaty and the broth that they were cooked in was packed with flavor. I ordered up the rack of lamb for my main entree and had it medium rare. The lamb was great for some pieces but they were all varying in how cooked they were going from medium to almost rare with two pieces being medium rare. While the lamb was very good, the ratatouille was easily the best thing on the plate and was just plain good. I finished off with the foie gras pate. Normally I like my foie gras seared but this pate was extremely good and creamier then most pates that I've had. Of course, as always with foie gras, a little goes a long way and not much was needed to be satisfied. The service was extremely helpful and did a great job of letting us go at our own pace. Since there were a lot of bottles out they were also very reasonable with the corkage charged. This is easily a place I would come back to either with a smaller group or with another good sized wine tasting

Christy L.

My date and I headed to Kiki's mid-week during a snow fall and were two of perhaps six patrons in the entire restaurant. The service was very attentive...in a good way. The waitstaff was particularly helpful in recommending wines given that neither my date nor I were particularly well-versed on French varietals. As mentioned by many Yelpers, the space, while much bigger than I was expecting, is super cute and romantic. I always stare at a French menu and nothing jumps out at me; Kiki's was no different. Nevertheless, the food was very good. We split an escargot appetizer, which was tasty, thanks to the heavy garlic. For an entree, I ordered the rack of lamb, which was perfectly prepared. I probably wouldn't return to Kiki's, not because we didn't have great service and food, but because French food in general is just not all that memorable to me. However, if you do like French bistros, definitely try Kiki's as the ambience and service were top-notch, and the food was very well-prepared.

Melody Z.

Kikis offers good French cruisin at reaonable prices. Some of the things we ordered are duck pate and braised frog legs - yummy! Very friendly stuff, and off course including Kiki!

Otto A.

Reservations for 7:30 on a Saturday night, arrived at 7:40 and promptly seated. Waiter was a male of about 55-60, great server, smiled, happy, just enough presence yet not hovering. Wine recommendations great. Food delightful. Go now.

Grace N.

My husband and I had a staycation in the city and the ingredients were almost there for a perfect, romantic weekend: Hottie husband who tolerates the word "staycation"? Check. Long, leisurely day at the Art Institute? Check. Fabulous, gustatory sensation at a french restaurant? Er.....check please? To be fair, the ambiance is like a Monet painting turned to life - warm and ebullient. The service was near perfection. And the appetizer of poached artichoke on toast topped with a poached egg, hollandaise sauce, and truffle shavings was transcendental - like a warm french kiss to the palette. But the dismayed look on my 6-foot-2 husband's face when he saw his teeny-tiny short rib dish (like an adult at a child's tea party), along with my bland Coq au Vin, made the experience sadly mediocre. The prices, however, are anything but mediocre. I guess we'll have to "staycate" in the burbs to have our perfect Coq Au Vin, at Hemmingway's Bistro.

Corey N.

A nice Bistro that has been around forever. Food is good and prices are fair. My only real complaint is that the tables are pretty close together, which can make conversation a challenge on a busy Saturday night. Not a "hip" scene whatsoever -- definitely caters to an older crowd. 3.5 stars

Sue S.

I would give the place an A for atmosphere, which is exceptionally warm and inviting, though the tables tend to be side by side in rows, making it less private than I would have liked for an intimate dining experience. The food was excellent, particularly the mussels in a tomato cream sauce and the rack of lamb. What I found disappointing was the "attitude". I had been to the earlier restaurant the owner, Kiki, owned, known as Le Bordeaux, many times, and to this one as well when it first opened. As it has been some years since we last met, I suppose I could be mistaken, but I am fairly sure Kiki was the one who seated us on this occasion. Whoever it was, the man did not even so much as turn his head to smile, much less say anything, but instead just marched us straight to our table before immediately departing after dumping the menus on the table. Perhaps he is not normally required to perform this service and was feeling a bit rushed, but it still surprised me, Given the reviews on how warm and friendly the owner is to patrons of his restaurant, I have to say that we did not have this experience, though I can recall conversations with him in years past which were quite pleasant. While our waiter was attentive and helpful, particularly with the wine selection, the service felt rushed. The worst moment came when it was time to pay the bill. We asked for the check, and handed him a discount voucher from Restaurant.com as we did so. His response..."Oh, you have one of these things" was said in an obviously disdainful tone and we thought it quite rude. Considering that we each ordered a cocktail, split an appetizer, a salad, had two of their more pricey entrees and also shared a bottle of wine, 2 cappucino's and a dessert, and tipped on the full price w/o the discount I think they more than made their money back on us, coupon or not.

Sarah R.

I've never been to France before, but Kiki (the owner of Kiki's Bistro) sure knows how to bring the culture to Chicago. I had the pleasure of dining here when my French teacher took my best friend and I to enjoy an authentic French meal. We shared the escargot as an appetizer and I literally melted in my seat. The butter and herbs that bathed these snails (which I had never tried before) were to die for. The snails were so delicate yet flavorful. I had the roast chicken, but not only did the chicken wow me, the red cabbage stood out the best. I wish I could order a bucket of that to go. The overall ambiance was great. Very mellow and low lit. The place was packed, but never got very loud at all. When we first arrived there was a bar where patrons could enjoy a drink while waiting for their table. I was super impressed at the free valet service. I haven't been back since then and I don't know if it's still free, but since the area is so secluded like someone mentioned before, it's hard to find parking. I would recommend bringing a small group here, but above all this is a date place. Very romantic, but what about France isn't?

Mick J.

Very nice spot. Works well as a formal but not stuffy French restaurant. Veal was outstanding. Service was good with solid recommendations. Manager made sure everything was good during the night. Waiter was less attentive as night went on but not a big issue. Cheesecake was very good, not too dense and heavy.

Alanna M.

I walked in and the hostess greeted me by saying, "Au Revoir!" PAUSE. Are you kidding? Who doesn't know how to say "Hello" in French? Isn't it just one of those things...every American has a stock of foreign greetings and phrases. We all know what "Hola," "Si," "Oui," and "Aloha" mean. Are you telling me that "Bonjour" isn't a part of that list? Did I really just meet the only girl in America that doesn't know this? Maybe I'm being a bit snobby as I am a French speaker myself...but whatever. After I was done shaking my head and correcting her, I proceeded to my table with my family and had a great time. The food was a bit slow to come out...resulting in some rather cold frog legs. Nonetheless, the food was quality. I already want to go back there. I had the Halibut. YUM. I want to try everything on the menu. I think I really just miss France. I'll be back for date night! I hope they work on their serving time so I can be 100% happy!

Steve M.

I really enjoy this little gem. The chef is Steven Leviton. I would follow this guy anywhere! If you like duck, you're in luck! Moist pink breast with a thin crispy skin. How does he do it?! If you've been to France, you know this is authentic. His fois gras is so luscious. Sea scallops are grilled to perfection. Salads are so crisp and fresh, it's like they came straight from the garden. Bread pudding with caramel sauce is a dream! Portions are generous and prices are terrific! This is the kind of place you become a regular! Can't wait to go back!

David K.

Kiki's Bistro was wonderful! My parents are in town and we were looking for something nice but a little off the beaten track, and my roommate suggested Kiki's. We got there a little early for our reservation, and I was very confused that the restaurant was virtually empty--it was a little odd, but were definitely able to get a table before our reservation. We sat outside, which was really nice--even though Kiki's is downtown, the area around the restaurant is really secluded--sitting outside on a beautiful evening was perfect. We got a lot of food--we started with escargot and tarte de provence. Both were fabulous. I'm definitely not well versed in the way of French food, but I thought everything was great. I went with the Filet Mignon for my entree--it was great; it waas served with fois gras that went amazingly with the steak. I loved it. The sauce was fantastic. All of us were very satisfied with what we had. My mother had Alaskan Halibut that was pretty wonderful too--she let me have a taste. :-) Dessert was a real winner--I had some dish that the waiter couldn't remember the name of (it was the special for the night) which was sweet cheese in pastry with fruit--Oh. Em. Gee. So good. All of the desserts were amazing, and I wish I could've tried everything on the dessert menu. I do think that the service could have been a tad bit better--the waiter was very nice, but a little absent; there were a couple times I wished he would check in on our table and he didn't, but other than that, he was super friendly and attentive (and kind of cute). This was a great meal, and a really cute spot. I don't feel like it's somewhere I will rush back to, but definitely a wonderful place. And definitely outside my normal price range--glad the parents were there!!

Ziran Z.

The food here is great, though not traditional French dishes. But I still recommend it because of the delicious food, warm customer service, and awesome environment. I love the appetizer here!!!!!

Anne M.

I've been to Kiki's twice now, both times for lunch, and it was lovely both times. Country-chic interior, romantic, would be very cozy at night for dinner - which I would love to try sometime! Most recently, I started with their house salad ( mixed greens, endive, tomatoes + balsamic) pretty basic, could have been jazzed up a little - some cheese please? Other veggies? They also serve bread baskets/butter to start. I ordered their pizza du jour, one of the best 'fancy pizzas' I've had. Absolutely delicious, buttery crisp chewy crust, tomato sauce, lots of mushrooms, mozz + goat cheese. Mmmm... so good. We split their lemon tart - perfect dessert, great crust, tangy lemon filling, served with fresh whipped cream + strawberries. Very yummy lunch, thanks Kiki.

Dirk S.

Ok food and services, but pricy for what you get. Bit old fashioned interior. There are better places to go to

Saira K.

Lovely place, but the food was just all right. I had foie gras, which was more of a pate than the foie gras I'm used to. I also had moules, which were good. The dessert was nice.

Nicki W.

Very few times am I head over heels in love with a restaurant and Kiki's will be added to the likes of Joe's Stone Crab in my category of pure amazingness. When you hear about Chicago's restaurant gems, this is what they're talking about. Right as you walk into the restaurant, warmth hits you as Kiki the owner greets regulars with hugs and kisses asking about the family. It seems that just about everyone knew Kiki and that speaks volumes. For an establishment to have been around for 40 years and still be bustling on a Tuesday night, I give major props. Kiki's would work very well for family gatherings, special events and much more. My entertaining dining buddy for the night and myself were the youngest people in the room by at least 20 years but I was completely fine with that. The patrons themselves are what makes the atmosphere what it is. Wealthy older River North locals pulling up in their luxury vehicles adorned in suits coming straight from the office to meet their wives and their friends. This is a place where the Scotch and Wine flow like the salmon of Capistrano. We were sat in a cute little booth in the corner perfect for a date. I feel I need to get right down to the food, because it was truly perfect. For appetizers, we started with the Duck Ravioli as well as the Red Beet Salad. First off, the sauce in that Duck Ravioli was to die for and we continued to dip our bread in there. The salad had the perfect combination of sweet and salty and it was very enjoyable. For the Entrees, we had the Steak Au Poivre, 12oz New York Strip Steak with cracked peppercorns served with assorted vegetables (carrots and potatoes). It was so juicy and melted in my mouth but the only complaint I do have is the fact that the last taste I had in my mouth was the pepper when it should have been the steak. Case in point, the pepper was a bit overpowering. But still outstanding and cooked to Medium Rare perfection! We also had the Roasted Pork Tenderloin served with Polenta, Braised Red Cabbage, Green Beans, Carrots and Turnips. The same Calvados sauce which was served with the steak also came with this. The presentation on this dish was especially enticing. They had the pork laid out in a fan over the cabbage. You NEED to combine the cabbage, polenta and pork together because the flavors all compliment each other!! Fabulous. In my world, a dinner is not complete without dessert and their dessert list did not let me down. We ordered the Blueberry Bread Pudding (so sweet and moist), as well as the Profiteroles Au Chocolate (wow). We were so stuffed, but we just kept on eating because we couldn't let all of these wonderful treats go to waste. All in all, if you haven't heard of Kiki's, don't waste the time and shame yourself, just call up and make a reservation ASAP. I've been wow'd tonight and I wont stop talking about it for awhile!

summer c.

We had a fantastic French meal here and loved the wine and service. It does cater to an older crowd, which means you can benefit from classic style dining. But if your are looking to meet young people in the city, that's not what's going on here. There is no fusion menu items...just the good old school french homestyle. I'm into it.

Melanie S.

I've been to Kiki's Bistro many, many times. My old firm held their annual holiday party there for 4 years in a row, and I had been for dinner on several other occasions. You know you're in the right place when you see the darling red Citroën parked in front of the restaurant, which offers free valet, btw, an unheard of concept in downtown Chicago. Last night, I met a newly-brunette Yelper (who looks fantastic as a chestnut-haired beauty, for the record) for dinner. We had tossed around a few other places but I wanted to stay fairly close to the Brown line out of convenience, and knowing her predilection for French food, I suggested Kiki's. She's easygoing, so we settled on Kiki's. To be honest, I was a little disappointed. I've had a lot of wonderful meals here, but this one fell a little short. I arrived a few minutes early, so I sat at the bar and ordered a glass of Bordeaux, which was excellent. She arrived and we were shown to our table. I started with a Salade Lyonnaise, which is one of my favorite salads. While this was good (how can you go wrong with a warm poached egg and lardons?), it wasn't nearly as good as it could have been. For my entree I ordered a rack of lamb, which came with ratatouille, mashed potatoes, and haricots verts. The lamb was overcooked and a little tough. The sides were very good, however. My dc ordered the roasted chicken, but she didn't eat very much, so I'm not sure if she enjoyed it. It could have been that we were just chatty and she didn't get a chance. Which leads me to the service. Since we were talking quite a bit, we had several moments where we weren't eating. The bussers and servers interpreted that as we were done with our entrees and constantly kept coming over to clear our plates. It got annoying to have to keep saying we weren't done. We were asked so many times, we just gave up and let them take our plates. Moving on to dessert. I knew from past visits that Kiki's has crème caramel on their menu, so I knew ahead of time that that was going to be my selection. There isn't a French bistro that doesn't have crème brûlée on their menu, but you'd be hard-pressed to find many that have crème caramel. This was creamy and sweet, and served with a puddle of caramel sauce and fresh berries. Simply sinful. We settled our check and moved to the bar area to meet a friend for another glass of wine. By then, we were the only people in the bar area and there wasn't a bartender. No worries, Kiki himself came over and poured us some wine. Conversation flowed and wine was drunk. We all wanted another glass but no one ever came over and asked us. You'd sell a lot more wine if you asked if your guests would like another round. That was ironic to me because when I was waiting for my guest, I heard Kiki remark how slow business had been lately. Again, your check average would rise if you kept a bit of a closer eye on your guests. We never were offered a second round so we just ended up deciding to leave since I have copious bottles of red wine at my house, and then it became a problem trying to get someone to close out our bar tab. So Kiki's get 3.5 stars. I'll definitely go back to Kiki's in the future, but since my experience was lacking, it may be awhile before I go back.

Dodge S.

My inlaws were visiting from out of town and we picked Kiki's from the Urban Spoon app on somebody's iPhone. Had a Zipcar that afternoon and used it to drive up Franklin Street for valet service and dinner for a party of four. We really enjoyed this place. First of all we are in love with all things French, so we ordered wine and appetizers, and took our time to enjoy the evening. There were so many things going on that night. I remember some wonderful tart pastries, an amazing ratatouille, sharing a bite from each other's plate, etc. Definitely recommended for a great night out. Check out the vintage car sitting out front, the pastoral scenes painted as wall murals, the authentic decor, and superior service from the waiter, coat check, and valet. A complete package to impress your relatives.

Al B.

Been here on a few occasions now and really like it. The food is excellent and service great, friendly and efficient. What really strikes me though is how peaceful it is here. Chicago is full of noisy restaurants, with overly loud music or tvs, Kikis is peaceful without being awkwardly quiet. Try the duck confit or the coq au vin, really good outside France!

Amy L.

A good place if you are looking for A LOT of French food. By A LOT I mean the quantity--the food portion they serve there is almost twice as large as other French restaurants I have ever been to. In general, it is a good place as long as you have a big appetite.

Carolyn L.

For Bastille Day this summer, I had the pleasure of attending the festivities at Kiki's Bistro in Chicago. Upon arriving at the restaurant on 900 N Franklin, I was greeted with Kiki's 2CV classic French voiture in front of the place. In the street next door, there was a street fest with a French singer in the style of Edith Piaf accompanied by an accordion and base player. I wandered around to find my French and Francophile friends and realized that there were many people there that I had never seen at any of the French In Chicago meetings or FACC cocktail hours! I enjoyed a couple glasses of some sparkling rosé and also watched a couple of street performers who played with fire! It was very reminiscent of the teenagers who play with fire sticks on the Champ de Mars near the Eiffel Tower in the summer evenings. The restaurant itself was founded by Kiki (Georges Kiki Cuisance). He is a native of Eastern France and has been in the restaurant business for 50+ years. He even worked at the Closerie des Lilas in Paris (Montparnasse area) which was frequented by Hemingway. In the 1960s, he came to Chicago as the sommelier for Maxim's de Chicago. He also opened Le Bordeaux restaurant on both Madison and Michigan before eventually moving north to Kiki's Bistro. I didn't get to taste the food this time but I'm sure I'll be back to get some fine French fare! Vive la France!

mary j.

This place is phenomenal! One piece of advice, make sure you have reservations

Jiyoun B.

Kiki's can do French food. Too bad their servers think that means they can act French too. So rude. The food was good but it just doesn't justify their lack of service. I want to go to a "nice" restaurant and have a "nice" experience. This place kept coming up in the list of French restaurants but we never went back.

Henry W.

I took my lady here this past Valentine's Day and we loved it. The service was great. The hostess as well as Kiki are very engaging with the guest which is a must to me with any establish I visit. We never had to call for our waitress, she very regularly check on us. Most of all the food was incredible. I had the Oysters w/ caviar and my lady had the crab cakes as appetizers which were both very fresh and tasty. For the entrees she had the rack of lamb which was cooked exactly how she asked and tasted good as well. I tried duck for the first time getting the duck breast and leg confit and fell in love. It's definitely a great spot for a date. We plan to visit many more times.

derek T.

As soon as we walked in I knew we had chosen the right place for the evening. It was my wives bday, and it was cold and rainy, so we were looking for cozy and quiet. Not sure if Kiki's is always cozy and quiet, but we were seated in a small windowed corner near the bar, a perfect start. Our waiter, James, was fantastic - knowledgeable, friendly, local, and with a good sense of humor. Right off the bat he sold us on an Alsace special of fresh oysters on the half shell, served with a touch of horseradish vinaigrette and caviar - yum. We choose a St. Emilion Bordeaux that was reasonably priced, and went perfect with my wife' choice of the rack of lamb and my veal scallops with morel mushrooms. The only reason I didn't give Kiki's a 5 is that the food was a 4. The lamb was very good, but it didn't blow me away, my wife has prepared it in a similar fashion (garlic encrusted) just as well. As for my dish, again very good, but just a few morels and that kind of diminished it. We wrapped up with a cheese plate that had 3 very good cheeses and a some fruit, very simple presentation (all of the food shared this quality) but very flavorful. James delivered two muscat's on the house to finish the evening - and we were very happy.

Miriam R.

I went here recently with my parents, and had an amazing dining experience. First of all, our waiter (I wish I could remember his name) was extremely helpful in recommending food / wine choices, and was very accommodating. I had the Peppercorn steak and the French Onion soup. French Onion Soup is often way too salty, but this time it was just salted enough, and the taste of the delicious Gruyere was uninhibited. A few people have commented on the age of the clientelle--there were definitely some older patrons, but I would say that at least half of the patrons were under 50. I went on a Friday night, so I don't know if that made a difference. At the end of dinner, our waiter brought us some Muscat (on the house) to help celebrate my brother's birthday, so they get bonus points for being so generous and accommodating! I think my favorite part of this place is that while it is a formal setting (and a bit expensive, although for me it was the perfect "parents in town" kind of place), it isn't the least bit snobby. It was perfect place for me (definitely not an aficionado of French cuisine) and my parents and brother (who have more "refined" tastes) to enjoy a relaxed evening of delicious food and wine.

Karen J.

A very pleasant experience. We went Saturday night and our evening started with finding abundant street parking. Kiki himself greeted us warmly an showed us to a cozy table. Our waiter,Abdel. was very helpful in recommending outstanding meals and wines. A couple of us ended up ordering from the 3 course $29.95 menu with 4 choices for each course. All of the courses were decent sized portions and very tasty. One person had the mussels marinière and another diner had the fricassée of mushrooms with madeira wine sauce. Both were were very lavorfula and well prepared. I had the salmon dinner with capers and asparagus. The lamb stew ordered by another diner was very tender and flavorful. Dessert choices inciuded chocolate mousse and lemon tart with raspberry sauce. Outstanding! The menu provideda wonderful choice of French bistro items that were all exquisitively prepared. We appreciated Abdel's food and wine recomendations . .

Paige W.

First of all... I sent Jennifer B. a compliment this morning because she made my mouth water at the mere thought of the orgasmic caramel sauce on a poached pear dessert at Kiki's Bistro. And of course, to each her own... But I was not moved by this caramel sauce. It tasted like jarred Smucker's caramel ice cream topping diluted with rubbing alcohol. Well, anyway. I headed in with a friend tonight for my only Restaurant Week reservation. The interior is charming, very cozy and rustic. Perfect for a winter night. Sadly, by cozy I also mean the tables were packed together comme les petites sardines, n'est-ce pas? The restaurant was loud and frenzied, but our table's corner location, right near the kitchen, server station and 7,432 tables somehow managed to be the eye of this culinary hurricane. We both ordered the French onion soup from the prix-fixe menu, served in the traditional ceramic crock with bread on the bottom and freshly shredded Swiss cheese melting over the top. Piping hot and delicious. As his main course, my friend had the lamb skewers served over the most intensely buttery couscous I've ever experienced. The meat was tender and cooked to a lovely medium rare. Despite my temptation to stray from the prix-fixe and order steak frites (so. hard. to. resist.), I opted for the duck entree, with a sliced breast cooked to order and a little drummie of confit. Which I'd never tried. Which I want to be bathed in from now on. The accompaniments to my meal were a little bizarre, some caramelized beets and a sort of wild rice (and three, count 'em, little steamed veggies), but that only left me room for the dessert. And it is the lemon tart that brings this otherwise ordinary meal up to its four-star glory. Get READY. It was just perfect. The custard was light and tart, served atop a delicate crust that all held together with perfect balance and unity. A generous drizzle of raspberry and possibly white chocolate sauce, along with some whipped creme fraiche and a strategically placed sprig of mint, completed the plate. Parfait, mes enfants. Parfait. I want to marry that tart, I said. I want to make an honest woman of her. And just for that, I would return to Kiki's Bistro outside of R-week, get the steak frites, box up three-quarters of it and go to town on that sweet, luscious tart one more time. Go there, and fall in love for yourself. Edit, the morning after: I'm tempted to knock this back down a star for the indigestion I have this morning. G'damn.

Hugh B.

Kiki's is generally very enoyable. The food is classic French -- no surprises. Lots of sauces. Service is dependable. And the room, when full, has a nice buzz to it. That all said, the place is not hip. The average age of the clientele is deceased. But, it's a type of crowd that will not settle for poor food or poor service. Have your grandparents take you and enjoy!

christine p.

went here last night for my bday dinner! was just as delicious as last time! Kiki and his wife were there to great and seat us, they are seriously too cute! had the escargots and foie gras again, SO YUUUMMMYYYY! Can't wait to go back!

Jennifer G.

My boyrfriend and another couple went here to try something new in Chicago. While the food was ok (the salad was the best part, I think), I got food poisoning. 24 hours after eating here I was sicker then a dog. Out of the other couple the husband got sick as well. Its kind of strange because the only thing we had that was the same was the salad but his wife had it too and didn't end up sick. Needless to say we will not be going back.

Alison F.

Second time at Kiki's and less impressed unfortunately. The restaurant has a nice, cozy feel to it, though a bit outdated, and it's easy to speak and hear each other across the table. It's a bit of an older crowd which suited the group we were with well. Kiki's is not too loud nor is it trendy. Our server did a good job across the board, unfortunately the food wasn't great for the price. We started with the Crab Cakes, scallops and mushrooms. The mushrooms were the best of the three. The other two were just ok. For the main entrees, they ran out of their recommended chicken dish so 2 of us had to adjust - it happens, they handled it well but then 3 of us that ordered the salmon had to send it back as it was less than rare. They were kind enough to send us complimentary desserts to make up for the inconvenience which was a nice gesture. Desserts were good but not great either. At the end of the night the coat-check staff came to our table to deliver our coats (a hint I guess). We couldn't find our plastic reusable claim ticket and she looked at us as to please find it. She said they just bought them. We spend over $600 that night and we shouldn't have felt uncomfortable if we couldn't find our claim ticket. No worries, we did eventually find it and returned it so we saved the day. We found Kiki's to be just OK for the price. With so many options in the city it's hard to recommend OK food for the price.

Rachel K.

Went here with the gf for the Yelp Eats Week and I was pretty darn impressed. Our reservations were for 9:30 and we got there about 15 minutes early, but they sat us right away. Out waiter was really nice and happy and pronounced himself a queen. The decor was beautiful. I really really liked the way the place looked, smelled, and sounded. The people watching was great and I prefer a bit of an older crowd so I was happy and comfortable. I ordered the salad, steak, and mousse for dessert off of the Yelp menu as well as a very good glass of sauvignon blanc that was expensive (11.50 for a glass) but really good. The bread and butter served before the meal was delish. The salad was nothing exceptional. The steak was yummy and so were the pommes frites that came with it. The mousse was to die for. I really like that their dessert portions aren't enormous. They're too rich to be really big. The gf had the french onion soup, the steak, and the lemon tart. I tasted her soup and liked it. She said it was some of the best she'd ever had. I tasted the lemon tart and didn't like it, but I knew I wouldn't. It was just too tart for me, but she thought it was fantastic. My only complaint of the night was that it took forever for the waiter to bring us the bill. I don't mind waiting between courses, but I hate waiting for the bill. The whole meal took about an hour, but we waited for the bill for about a half hour while our waiter chatted people up at other tables. I understand that he was probably slowing down a bit since they were closing, but I really don't appreciate having to wait that long. *Edit: After having an amazing steak elsewhere I decided to come back and revise this review. The steak at Kiki's was just ok. It was nothing great and I'm now giving this place 3 stars instead of 4. I'm not sure its really worth going back to this place for the quality of food and the high prices.*

Linds R.

I went to lunch here for an end-of-internship celebration with my then-supervisor during my last year of grad school. Part of my fond feelings for this place are because of her, she was the best supervisor I've ever had for a job that I would do anything to have again; but part of it is just that the food was really great. I had the coq au vin, yes for lunch, it was delicious and I ate the whole thing. Other people with us had the croque monsieur, scallops, and other classic French dishes, everything was very good. The staff were polite and the ambience was very nice. I would like to go back, not only to the restaurant, but to that lunch in particular. And I'd have the coq au vin again.

Craig A.

Great time. Amazing food and service. One of the best restaurants in Chicago.

D.L. P.

Kiki's was my first real experience with a French restaurant. I did like it. Great ambiance. The bar's in front, which always makes for a convenient waiting area. Kiki - the owner - was making the rounds, working but also politely saying hello to his guests. That goes a long way and his sincerity was a nice touch. My french food cherry popping was a good experience. The staff was knowledgeable and helpful, which was necessary considering my inexperience. My parents and a lot of family were there so I really appreciated their answering some questions and not forcing me to deliver my Chuck Norris stare of death and/or roundhouse kick. The food was good/great. We had a variety of things and shared. I liked most items and even what did not gain my palette's approval, I could respect the plate for something someone else would enjoy. My Uncle scooped the tab, so I did not see what the damage looked like. I think it was around $1000 total including gratuity for about 16 of us, all of whom were drinking throughout dinner. I'd like to say not bad, but my Uncle's money clip could tell you better about that. A good experience!

Joshua S.

Very Good food. Very Good Service. Very cool owner. Had the pork sandwich and fries, so good.

C A.

Great food. Very friendly staff. They always seem to be pretty empty when we go though.

Lucas P.

We have been to kiki's twice so far and the restaurant is getting al title better each time. The first time I nada the coq a vin, chicken in red wine sauce, and a the chicken was cooked very well, but the sauce started to coagulate a little, and for the appetizer we had the duck ravioli, which has a hair in it. On the second turn, I had the lamb shank which was incredible as well as some oysters. The second turn ended up being much better than the first. I guess the saying goes, if you try something once and you don't like it, try it again and give your opinion then.

Kelly R.

Ate here on New Years Eve this year and I thought it was fantastic. The restaurant itself has a very warm, rustic feel to it. We were seated at a larger corner table, but the little side-by-side tables looked kind of cramped - glad I wasn't there. Now the food - it was all incredible. The onion soup was really good - not the best I've ever had, but up there. The mussels were great and probably the biggest ones I have ever had. Almost freakishly big, I was slightly concerned they were shot with steroids. The goat cheese salad was also really good and huge, 2 people could split it. And finally, the Poulet Roti was amazing!! Too much to finish, but amazing nonetheless. I'd give it 5 stars but the service was lacking from the time we entered and throughout the meal. I'll have to go back on a night that's not NYE to see if the service is any better.

Leigh R.

I visited Kiki's during Restaurant Week for lunch. First off, I was happy that they had an actual Restaurant Week menu, with a few selections as opposed to the "menu" that Aria offered with one, lonely option for the masses. I started with the pates as my Restaurant Week approach was to try new things. Given that I am generally a proponent of all foods spreadable, I was happy with my decision. Those pates were pretty darn tasty. I chose the salmon with hollandaise for the entree bc it was lunch and I wanted something light. Obviously, 'hollandaise' doesn't scream 'light lunch' but the other options were steak and duck so...you see my reasoning. It was also de-lish but I was jealous of my dining partner's frites. Dessert = creme brulee with a chocolate bottom = fantasticly inappropriate for lunch and my waistline but ... what of it. My one huge gripe was that we went for lunch - as in 'lunch' in the middle of a normal working day - and the whole experience took about 2 hrs and 15 minutes, which, I am guessing, is generally frowned upon in the corporate world. But, hey - it was Restaurant Week!

Lesly S.

After a week agonizing and strategizing on the perfect place for a work dinner in Chicago, trusty Yelp came through with Kiki's Bistro. It was close, the price range was right, and the menu was exotic enough yet accessible. I called for a reservation and the host immediately made me feel I'd chosen the right place--he was flexible with the times, and when my party lost a few people the day of it was no big deal. Taking people out to dinner in their own city can be risky, but everyone loved Kiko's. I thought the food was solid--not the best pork tenderloin I've ever had (it was a bit dry), but the accoutrements were delicious. Our whole party finished with dessert and we loved that as well. The creme brulee with the chocolate bottom is big enough to share and delicious. The service was excellent too--all in all Kiki's was a great find and I definitely recommend it.

Naomi L.

Ok so maybe I shouldn't order Duck and Onion soup and sparkling wine when 7 months pregnant- (equls heartburn) I just love this place it is perfect for busines, pleasure and romantic. One Day I will come for Valentine's day. Their service is quick effcient and experienced. The food is perfect French food- haven't found similar place in town?

Kim J.

I really wanted to love Kiki's bistro. I loved the antique cars outside, I loved the decor, I loved the nice maitre'd who seated us 15 minutes prior to our reservation. But sadly, I didn't love the food. It was just "ok". I started out with the goat cheese tart - tasty, but sorely lacking in goat cheese! The boyfriend had the escargot, which he enjoyed but I thought were just average. For our main dishes, the boyfriend had a steak which had to be the highlight of the night. Cooked perfectly with a tasty sauce. My lamb dish was decidedly less tasty. The lamb was overcooked and tough. The couscous that came with it was good, though. Our desserts provided mixed reviews as well. The boyfriend chose the crepes Suzette, which came with a nice Grand Marnier sauce, but the crepes themselves were not very flavorful. I had the chocolate mousse, which was really good. Our total bill with one of the cheaper bottles of wine came to $135 without tip. Not cheap for a meal that wasn't spectacular. The service was good and I liked the atmosphere, but I think I'll stick with Bistro Campagne, my old French standby.

Katherine Ashley M.

You know, the food was good. But the service was terrible. Salvadore, get another job so that I can come back. It was one of those experiences that make you kind of upset that you tipped even 15% (which he was obviously peeved about because he refused to make eye contact with us as we walked out when everyone else around him said thank you!) Ugh.

J C.

We ate at Kiki's last night in celebration of my 27th birthday. It was--in a word--fantastic. I had the bouillabaisse Marseillaise, while the hubby had the sauteed sea scallops. Before those fabulous entrees arrived, we staved off our hunger by splitting a serving of duck ravioli. Very rich and very tasty. I am completely spoiled by the bouillabaisse. It was a dish I had never tried before and will forever compare to Kiki's. The hubby said his scallops almost tasted like lobster because they were so rich and buttery. Portions were generous. Finally, before we waddled out of the restaurant to retrieve our car from the complimentary valet parking, we had dessert. I chose the ever-popular creme brulee. My husband tested the profiteroles du chocolat. Both were simply divine. Overall, we had a great experience. As noted before, the crowd was not young. Rather, it appeared that most of the diners were in their middle ages or older. We saw one large group that came in around 8:00 which appeared to be our age. Service was prompt and attentive but not overly friendly. It was certainly a place we would consider returning to for a special occasion. And although Kiki's is casual, be prepared to lay down some pretty significant bucks for a three-course dinner.

Michelle R.

Perfect for a date because... 1. quiet, so you can hear each other 2. good lighting. dim. so any blemish you may have isn't obvious 3. affordable 4. close to the el and Chicago Ave. easy out 5. and lastly, the food is really good. I had the beet salad with goat cheese for starters. Good-sized portion and tasty. The fish du jour was whitefish with a lavender cream sauce. Nice wine list, mostly French (duh). And very romantic desserts. The Early Dinner Menu is from 5-6:30pm. $25 excluding tax & tip

Dawn L.

I visited Kiki's with two friends for the first time two nights ago to celebrate my new job--overall, we had a great experience. The service was excellent--the staff was unintrusive, but we never had to wonder where our server was and our water glasses were constantly filled. And the bistro has a wonderful, warm ambiance. The food: - We ordered the sauteed scallops and Kiki's frog legs as appetizers for the table to share. These were AMAZING. The sauces were simply superb. And I don't say that lightly. I think we would have licked the plates clean if we'd been at home rather than a nice restaurant. If I come back I might have to make meal out of those two rather than ordering an entree. - Entrees: My roommate had the roast chicken, which was excellent. Soft, tender, not over-cooked, as chicken can sometimes be. The portion was large too--the dish was half a chicken. I thought my boyfriend's salmon was good but slightly overdone--he wasn't terribly happy with it though, and thought it was a bit bland. I had the rack of lamb, which was almost perfect--the lamb itself was excellent, but it seemed like it was encrusted in wasabi (there was no mention of wasabi on the menu, so perhaps it was just undercooked garlic? It was rather strong). The mashed potatoes that came with my meal were nothing special; I make better mashed potatoes myself. - Dessert: The creme brulee is fantastic. I'd been longing for a good creme brulee for the last week, and this definitely satisfied. The custard was soft and delicate, not too gelatin-like, the crust had just the right depth, and the chocolate at the bottom made this chocolate snob really happy. Expect to spend around $40 a person with tip and taxes (without drinks).

Jennifer B.

Fantastic! We went here during restaurant week, so we ordered off the fixed price menu. For $32 each we got three courses, which was a ton of food. The onion soup and duck ravioli were good, the lamb skewers and duck breast were great and the pear tart with caramel sauce was unbelievable. It had the best caramel sauce I have ever eaten, and I've had quite a bit. The atmosphere is really nice too, you definitely don't realize that you're sitting in the middle of a dilapidated block in Chicago. With the exposed beam ceiling and the paintings behind the "windows" that look like fields of wildflowers it really does feel like you're in Provence. I highly recommend Kiki's for a great dining experience.

Paul T.

Kiki's is good. It's consistent, staff is quite friendly, accommodating and efficient. Wine selection is good, and having just returned from Paris, I thought that everything was authentic. If you go early enough on Saturday evenings, they have a pairing menu that works out well. People rave about the Creme Brulee, but it wasn't for me, as there's a layer of chocolate at the bottom, and I'm not a chocolate fan. The inside of the restaurant is warm and it's definitely worth checking this place out.

Taylor H.

Nice atmosphere and great service. The food was really unimaginative and with a mediocre execution. The kurobuta pork chop was flavorless and cooked beyond well done. Truffle fries were good, but they are really hard to screw up. I had a salad with mushrooms which was quite good. Overall, didn't meet my expectations.

Molly S.

I came here with a party of 7 on a Monday night. Four of us had the restaurant week prix-fixe: mushroom tart (they called it something else that I can't remember, but it was basically a mushroom tart), lamb shank, lemon tart. They're not listed on the restaurant week website, and it was technically the day before it officially started, but hey man, whatever's clever. I believe it was around $29, which is a pretty good deal for this place. Another person in my party had the salmon, and my sister had the steak frites. Everyone seemed to be pretty happy with their dinners. I tasted some of the mushroom tart, and it was very lovely and flavorful. I had the duck ravioli to start, which was actually sort of disappointing. I had such high hopes, but it was just three rather gummy ravioli with very scant filling in an overwhelming soup of a sauce. They seemed to be made with wonton skins instead of pasta, which you know, okay, I do that at home, but I don't expect it at a nice restaurant. They didn't taste BAD, they just weren't that great. For my entree I had one of the specials - lamb loin wrapped in phyllo with mashed potatoes and a sort of vegetable hash. It was SERIOUSLY delicious. It was cooked absolutely perfectly - moist and tender, the right doneness, well-seasoned. I have to say, none of the regular menu items really jumped out at me (they all looked good, but none that made me say I NEED TO EAT THAT RIGHT NOW), so I was really glad to have the special available. Don't get me wrong, I Iove French food. There was just nothing on there that enticed me to any great degree, other than the beloved standards like roasted chicken and steak frites. If I'm paying for a relatively expensive meal, I want to be wowed. They call themselves a bistro, but neither the prices nor the overall ambience evoke a bistro, so the argument about "simple bistro food" is sort of not applicable here. BUT, as I said, the lamb was really freakin good. For dessert I had the croustade de poire (poached pear over puff pastry with almonds, caramel, and creme anglaise). LOVED IT. I prefer a fruit dessert after a heavy meal, and this was just lovely. The caramel was some sort of delicious voodoo. One thing that kind of irked me is that I felt like there was CONSTANTLY somebody buzzing around me. Waiters, bussers, runners, etc. were just...always in my face. I did appreciate that they were attentive, but you don't need to refill my water every time I take a sip for pete's sake. There were always arms over my shoulders and bumps against my chair. Overall, the food was really good. But, like I said, the menu doesn't wow. I think I might like La Sardine better. I know people go gaga over Kiki's, and like I said, my entree and dessert were super good, but I just don't feel like I need to rush back. There's plenty of excellent food in this city, so I'd need a pretty good excuse to hike it over to this neighborhood and drop that kind of cash. I'm giving it 4 stars because the food WAS good, but I think it probably feels more like a 3.5 in terms of my overall feelings about the experience.

Diana S.

OH MY! Yet another prix fixe deal! This place is adorable and cozy. I came for an early dinner one time, only to be surprised with a prix fixe. There is this early dinner special that goes on from 5-6:30PM. It's $25 for 3 courses. Our group had a nice variety of choices. The steak I got was a large portion. I was happily surprised. If I were to compare this to La Sardine...which is similar...La Sardine is a little fancier and the food is a bit better too. It's really hard to say. Anyways, both are definitely worth a try.

julie p.

It was my first night home after a 3 month trip, Alinea and TRU and Schwa couldn't get us in, so a friend recommended Kiki's for my boyfriend and I. "It's not as fancy, but you'll be happy." I was surprised, since french food and vegetarians rarely mix well, but he said it was romantic and we were out of ideas. I was SO impressed. I told our server I was veg and he said "that's no problem." The chef made a special plate of delicious vegetables just for me- perfectly cooked and buttery tasty. We were a little overdressed, but nobody noticed. The wine list was fantastic and the servers were kind about our ignorance on all things wine. The dining room is cosy and heavy wooden beams crisscross the ceiling, throwing shadows from the candle lit tables below. We were seated at 7:30 and were the last table in the house after closing but the wait staff didn't rush us at all, refilling coffee cups until we chose to leave.

Tony S.

Tricky one this. In general I think most people on this web site over rate when they score restaurants and services. For me 3 stars means it does what it says and it does it well, 4 stars means I had a really good time and it was above par and pretty fabulous. 5 Stars means it was exceptional and I was basically orgasming over the food and service and would sell my mother to go back there. With that I would say this place is a solid 3 stars. That is I had a really pleasant evening, the food was good and the service was good too. I would recommend this place and take friends as it's close, the food is good, prices are reasonable and the service was good too. I had a Salad Lyonaiise to start, i.e. Lettuce Frisee, lardons and poached egg. The poached egg was done pretty much perfectly and the sald was nice, a bit tart/vinegary but pretty good. We both had the Roast Chicken which came with red cabbage and mash. The mash was too pureed for me, nothing wrong with it, quite nice just a bit bland. The cabbage was really nice and worked well with the mash and chicken. The roast chicken was just nice, nothing special or to write home about and not too dry. So pretty good meal, I think it was $80 plus we left $15 tip so $95 which was 2 starters, 2 Roast Chickens and the other half had a Kir Royale and a Glass of White wine. I just had water cause I am a bloody martyr. :o) So based on the above do you think I am under markign them and they deserve a 4 star? Is there any guidance or is it merely a personal thing? Love yas

Katrina B.

We came here for the first time for Restaurant Week, but I've been meaning to try it anyway. It was hard to stay on the prix fixe meal with so many other good choices on the menu. We did though, and overall the meal was quite good. The potatoes with my salmon were not, and we weren't crazy about the pear dessert, but I'll put my positive opinion in for the caramel sauce debate. Our service was not super friendly, but was very polite and we were well taken care of in all aspects of service. Also, we had time to "rest" and chat between courses. I enjoy this and hate to feel hurried. The wine list seemed quite good in my amateur opinion. It had a wide mix of prices and varietals. Overall: a good experience, but not outstanding.

Fred S.

I visited Kiki's for the first time on New Year's Eve in 1992, and I had two of my friends from France in tow... They loved the place, and so did I. I have returned to Kiki's a handful of times over the years (I would have gone more often but I haven't lived in Chicago for most of the years between 1992 and 2007), and it has never disappointed. The food is really good, and remarkably consistent. I have sampled the steak frites, veal chops, duck, and coq au vin - they are all first rate. The escargot are excellent, and the salads (goat cheese, house salad, and beet salad) have always been delicious, too. Kiki's has a great wine list - you can always get a nice bottle of wine in the 25 to 40 dollar range, but they also have good options on the high end of the price spectrum. The desserts I have tried (tarte aux pommes, creme brulee) have also been well prepared and very tasty. (The creme brulee never has a manhole cover of caramelized sugar on the top, which has happened far too often at other French bistros in the city.) In addition to having great food, Kiki's has a nice, warm atmosphere and very good service. They do a good job of taking care of customers like me (a non regular), and they clearly expend extra energy to keep their regular customers coming back. My only reason for taking away a star from Kiki's is that their steak frites, while very good, isn't as good as the steak frites at Brasserie Jo. (A restaurant that fails to come close to Kiki's in terms of service, atmosphere, or dessert quality.)

Vanessa K.

I went here for my birthday recently and everything was amazing. We went a little early and were in time to do the prix-fixe for $27 which was the way to go. In addition, we went on a Thursday so the house red and white wines were only $5 a glass (great deal). The bread is amazing and I think we went through two baskets during dinner. The butter is unsalted and I couldn't get enough of either. We all had the mussels for our appetizer. The mussels were a little big but were in a wonderful white wine, garlic, and herb sauce. Even after I finished the mussels I was sopping up the sauce with my bread. For an entree three of us ordered the steak with frites. It was a huge strip with a patty of herbed butter melting on top and a mound of shoestring frites. My only suggestion would be to order a little less done than you are normal. The steaks are thin and the medium was a little more towards medium well. One other in our party had the roasted chicken and it was great. The chicken was moist, tender, and very flavorful. For dessert we all had the chocolate mousse which was amazing. It was more like a gelato/ice cream that was warm than a mousse. Smooth, rich, and with the right hints of chocolate. It came with a dark chocolate sauce and some fresh berries. In addition, because we had a birthday we also had the chocolate mousse cake. This was amazing with a chocolate crust, fresh berries, and a great raspberry sauce that was the perfect counter for the chocolate. The servings are large and you get your money's worth here. In addition, they do not skimp you on the wine servings which they could do for only $5 a glass. Oh and valet is free!

Jason L.

This is one of the best restaurants in Chicago. Even if you are not a fan of French food, you will likely love this place. They seem to do everything right. The desserts are amazing. I love the steak pomme frites. The clams are also really good. Just a warning, if you aren't driving to Kiki's, the area is a little sketchy.

Mara S.

Thoroughly enjoyed a meal here last night. I was in with a fairly large group and the service was perfect. Drinks and bread baskets were promptly refilled, wine was flowing, servers were really helpful... James was our main server and I thought that he was excellent. Considering the size of the group (18ish), he was quick and caring. He was also very knowledgable about the dinner, drink and dessert menus. My food was delicious. I really enjoyed a steak and onion soup - yum. The onion soup is pretty rich, but pretty good too. The desserts were outstanding, but I don't usually complain about chocolate mousse or creme brulee :) (I shared with others, though I might have been able to eat them myself, they were so delicious). Overall it was a great experience and I am looking forward to going back with a smaller group to enjoy their more intimate setting.

Cali G.

I am in love with this restaurant. The food is out of this world... It's not your hip place to go to, but it is a great first date restaurant. I do have to say that the crowd is mostly over 40 years old. This restaurant is on my top 5 restaurants that I frequently dine at. Love it .... They have the best escargot, crab cakes, smoked salmon appetizers. It's so french..

FelineFluff F.

So cute. Kiki's has turned into one of my favorite spots in the city. A bit off "the path" but totally worth the extra few blocks for me. Sit outside in the summer or in the warm inviting interior and cuddle up to some of the best French cuisine in the city . A fabulous wine list that has every worker there ready to perfectly pair with my meal. I always feel welcome here. So maybe not the youngest, hippest crowd but definitely one of the most pleasant. A nice change of pace.

Steph H.

I love all things French which of course entails french food. My group and I sat outside on the patio area and the seating looked a bit tight but that was not the case. Although I would suggest some mosquito-repellent candles since I received a few bits on my legs while sitting outside but that really was the only umcomfortable aspect about the evening. The escargot was fabulous -- the perfect amount of garlic which complimented the bottle of Saviougon Blanc that Pascuel suggested. I have had better mussels though and I think that was because of the broth but this did not disuade my love for Kiki's Bistro. I had the Steak pommes frites -- we also had the beef tenderloin and the veal in a truffle sauce. For dessert we had the creme brulee, chocalate mouse cake with a rasberry sauce, blue-berry bread and Pascuel threw in the profiterolles since they're not to be missed. The service is fantastic, warm friendly and upbeat personality. Albeit my sister is one of their servers this review is not biased, I truely was impressed with all aspects of Kiki's. Kiki's is a great place to spend a romantic evening or even a place to dine with friends. If it's a nice evening I recommend outside, it's a more casual atmosphere as opposed to the inside which tends to be more initimate. As Zac B mentioned, "What I like the most about Kiki's isn't the food, or the ambience, but the comraderie shared between the customers and the staff. We have customers who have been coming here for over fifteen years" and that is true, my mum has been coming here for years and she spent the evening regaling us w. funny/romantic stories of Kiki's bistro and even how she was proposed to at Kiki's. I guarantee after one time at Kiki's, you two will come back and maybe even for the next 15 years. Apprcier l'exprience

G R.

Had dinner here last night for the first time. I've been past it so many times, wish I'd had tried it sooner. I had the Beef Tenderloin, medium rare. Many places screw that up, either raw and cold, or don't bother trying and serve it up with barely any pink or red as it should be. It was perfect, the first time. My friend had the lamb chops, well done. She said it also was perfect, she told me she always gets dried out overcooked stuff when she orders. Service was impeccable, we ordered a bottle of wine, the waitperson, kept an eye on our glasses and refilled as needed. Plates were cleared off promptly soon after we were done, and the next course put down promptly, timing is important. And they did this without hovering. I don't know how they did that, but I'm impressed. The other impressive thing was, as you were brought to your table, each employee that walked by said hello. They didn't just whisk by you. We found a street spot down the block, so no need to valet, but even he had a friendly hello as we walked in. You felt genuinely welcomed. For me it was a insane Friday. I did need to go out bad, I'm fussy so I've been told. I had not one complaint, this was just what I needed, great service, food, etc. I left Kiki's with a renewed spirit, it usually takes a weekend getaway to accomplish this. We'll be back again and again, as long as they keep it up.

Colleen B.

Kiki's served us cocktails on their patio--before they were even open. And I had one of the most delicious dirty martinis with blue cheese olives that I ever had. Great atmosphere, nice service for 4:30 in the afternoon when we were the only patrons. Way to go, Kiki's.

Krystin I.

Yummy, authentic food, in a cozy, warm atmosphere. NYC transplants might liken this to La Mirabelle with a better atmosphere. Service was fantastic by the busmen (so attentive), but less than par from the waitstaff. Wonderful steak au poivre, but Bouillabase was a bit bland. Still, the most authentic French restaurant I've been to yet in Chicago.

eric r.

We have been to Kiki's many times in the past and have always spoken very highly of this classic french style bistro. However, we are extremely disappointed with our visit last Monday for two reasons. First, my wife ordered the Butt steak medium. It arrived to the table rare. Second, I orders Coq Au Vin, Technically it looked beautiful. However, it tasted as if the dish was made with barbecue sauce. Considering I regularly make recipes from Mastering the Art of French Cooking (to include Coq Au Vin) this was truly an unwelcome taste revelation. Kiki's had historically been a great value (consistently well executed meals, a great wine cellar, a very attentive staff, and a great owner consistently on the premises). We truly hope this was just a holiday anomaly.

Robyn T.

This is one of my new favorite restaurants. It's a taste of Paris in Chicago with great outdoor seating; an urban escape. Our waiter has been at the restaurant since it opened and could not have been more friendly. The French onion soup was delicious - lots of gooey cheese on top. The duck ravioli was very nice as well. Steaks were very good and came with lots of crispy pommes frites. The creme brulee was good (chocolate at the bottom is a nice twist on a classic) but the chocolate dessert on the menu is amazing melt in your mouth good! I think this is a great place for a date or a place to take your parents for dinner.

Kate B.

I L-O-V-E this restaurant. It probably doesn't hurt that my nickname is Kiki and I told the owner and he gave me a beret with their logo on it. So nice and so gracious! But their food is really good. I started with the escargot which I love and rarely eat. It was full of garlic, which automatically earns you points in my book and the little guys weren't tough or chewy, they were perfect. Then I had the Steak-Au-Poivre (sp?) with pomme frites - because in my book about steak there is nothing better than steak covered in fresh cracked peppercorns. It too was good, and I like my meat cooked medium-well, and I feel that sometimes its hard to understand what medium-well really means. It means that yes there is some pink in the middle, and at Kikis yes there was some pink in the middle. On to the dessert, which is really my favorite part of any meal. I had the creme brulee. And as my spoon cracked the perfectly crusted sugar topping and dove to the bottom, to my surprise there was chocolate in the bottom! How perfect! It is to this day still the best creme brulee that I have ever had. And I was going to join my Dad and his girlfriend here for dinner once, but I got sick and couldn't go, so my Dad asked the waiter for a creme brulee to go and they gave it to him in the bowl with the special serving spoon. It made my sniffles disappear for a few minutes! Plus their service is top notch, in all the times I have eaten here there has never been bad service. And when the owner is around, which is most weekend nights, he stops over to the table to see how everything is.

Marissa D.

Kiki's Bistro is a solid 4 stars, a great stand-by with the charm of a typical busy French bistro. Despite how busy it was, service was efficient. The french onion soup was delicious - I wish I had ordered that. But my salad of asparagus and goat cheese was very tasty...mmm...goat cheese. I ate every last bite. Steak Frite was, of course, very good. And yes, I did eat all the frites on my plate. Which is impressive considering it was enough for a small family to live off of for at least a week. Totally worth my feelings of regret the next day. Everyone else seemed to enjoy their food, although I can't remember what they had. I do know that George wasn't a huge fan of the Cassoulet - he thought it was too heavy. It did, in fact, look like a giant bowl of gravy. Profiteroles. These were good. How I ate most of them after consuming 2 pieces of buttered bread, one goat cheese salad, one entire slab of steak, 15 servings of frites, and other assorted nibbles from various plates is beyond me. In conclusion, Kiki's Bistro has good food. And especially good frites. I will be back.

Melissa H.

What can I say about Kiki's Bistro? Honestly, I was a little disappointed. The menu selection was very small and the food was not bad but it wasn't great. The favorite thing on the menu was the lemon tart, which another yelper claimed to be boring. In my opinion, I think this restaurant is better for groups than for couples. I can think of other French restaurants in the city with a better selection, better food, and a more intimate atmosphere for couples. I might consider re-visiting with friends, but even that is not likely.

Erin C.

Let me preface this review with the fact that we had the before 630pm prix fixe for $25. The atmosphere was cute, but i have 2 complaints. First, kiki, please oil the kitchen door. It squeaked obnoxiously every single time someone went in or out of the kitchen. As there weren't many people in the restaurant, it was extremely noticeable and completely distracting. Second, the beautiful wood floor may look nice, but in a quiet restaurant, I felt I was waking the dead by clomping across it in my heels. Not to mention, I nearly killed myself on its slippery sheen. Tread cautiously, ladies. Instead of wine tonight, my husband and I had cocktails and beer. My husband had 2 chimays which he really enjoyed, despite the waiter's horrible pour. I had a french martini, blech, and a kir royale, lovely! I started my meal with the beet salad, which was nice, but rather plain. A little goat cheese would have topped this off rather well. As for the hazelnut vinaigrette, I really couldn't taste it at all. Second, I had the steak frites which was ok. I really like hot food, and this was just not. The herbed butter on top was not even melting! Since the restaurant was nearly desolate, there is no excuse for that. The frites were good, but what frites aren't? Third, I tried the chocolate mousse which was forgettable. I really wanted to like this restaurant and was really expecting better service. Again, I went super early on a Monday night (date night for us) and maybe the restaurant's A-squad just wasn't working. I think I'll have to try this place again on a different night and NOT order the prix fixe. I think they deserve another chance.

Laura P.

My husband and I went here to celebrate an anniversary and we left feeling like we missed out on what had potential to be a really good experience. The location is good and easy to get to and they have free valet. Inside the restaurant is nice with a warm feel but a little bit "stuffy". We looked over the menu and were close to deciding when the waiter came over. He seemed very uninterested in us and almost annoyed that we weren't quite ready. He offered no help and didn't even tell us what the specials were!! So we quickly made our decisions and placed our order. We started with the french onion soup which was very good with just a hint of sweetness. My husband ordered the POT AU FEU which was basically pot roast cooked in broth. The meat was flavorful & tender and the vegetables tasted very fresh. I had the Margret de Conard avec son confit and it was only so so. The duck was flavorless and the wild rice tasted like plastic. The red cabbage was great and it saved the meal for me. For dessert we had creme brulee & Profiteroles. The creme brulee was just ok, I have had better elsewhere. The profiteroles were great! Everything blended together very well, the pastry was light & fluffy, the ice cream was very creamy and the chocolate sauce brought everything together. Overall I felt that our dinner was not worth the hundred dollars that we shelled out for it and while I might stop by for a soup & dessert lunch if I was in the neighborhood, I would not go back for a special dinner.

Karen M.

Kiki's Bistro is a real gem. Upon entering the restaurant, you feel as though you just walked into a Parisian bistro, with it's lovely colors, appealing decor, and lit candles floating from the ceiling. The atmosphere is quaint and charming. The food is extraordinary. Everything is cooked to perfection and the service is flawless. I recently dined there with my parents for lunch, and Dad ordered coq au vin while Mom had the liver and onions. Both meals where succulent and delicious, prepared with the subtle and savory flavors of true French cuisine. Our service was impeccable, classy and lacked any pretentiousness that you sometimes find in French restaurants. Since it was a celebration of sorts, we all had a dessert, too, and they were worth the guilty pleasure of enjoying a rich treat after a meal. The profiteroles were amazing, the best I've ever had. The creme brulee is out-of-this-world. Kiki is always there to greet his guests, and he is a gracious host, making sure his customers are enjoying their experience and that everything being served is up to his high standards. When you go, expect the crowd to be full of loyal patrons who are elegant and sophisticated, but unpretentious. Clearly they are there for the food and Kiki's warm hospitality. Bottom line: This is the place to go for French "comfort food" done right and when you leave, you will be promising yourself not to wait too long to return.

Dane K.

One of my favorite French bistros in Chicago... Food is very dependable. Somewhat standard French fare, done very well. Atmosphere is cute... They have a good outdoor seating area that's reasonably quiet. Kiki (a guy!) walks around and talks to his customers... It's nice to see that. You can even practice your French with him. Street parking isn't impossible, but they also have valet.

Scott M.

Love the steak au poivre and pomme frittes!!! The mussels are very good as well. Very old establishment but still serves very good French food.

Megan T.

I went to Kiki's for dinner last weekend with a group of six people. I had been to Kiki's in the past, but it had been a few years back. First of all, what a pleasant experience to be greeted by Mrs. Kiki and Kiki, the proprieter. I love when the owner of the place is hands on. My first impression was that the atmosphere was very warm and friendly. The crowd was varied, there were families, groups, older and younger folks and couples on dates. Kiki's seems to offer something for everyone. The food was very good - I think above average compared to other French bistros in town. I started with the beet salad which was very good and the coq au vin was much better than any I have had lately. It had a lot of meat and the broth was tasty. Everyone at the table was happy with their apps and entrees. Don't miss the dessert. The creme brulee - wow! Delicious. The chocolate on the bottom really makes it. All is all, Kiki's delivered. The staff was very friendly and we did not feel rushed at all. I look forward to dining there again soon.

Jennifer K.

This is a wonderful French bistro! When I first entered the restaurant for dinner, I was sort of surprised to only see...well...old businessmen. Thankfully, as the night progressed, the crowd became more diverse. I don't know, my friend and I were sort of uncomfortable as the only college students there. Anywho, the waiter was kind enough to seat us at a different seating location where the table was not rocking! But the service was kind of slow from the start. It took about 15 minutes for the waiter to get our orders. We ordered crab cakes, mussels provencale, grilled scallops, and beef tenderloin. The crab cakes and mussels were absolutely delicious! And I adored the grilled scallops! However, we had to send the steak back because it wasn't medium, it was rare. It came back to our table burnt. I would have loved to have given the place a higher score, but the slow service and less than perfect beef tenderloin sort of marred it. Nonetheless, it was quite delicious!

Colleen F.

Went here on a Sunday night. It was not warm enough to sit outside but it looks like they have a nice patio. I am a lover of French food and this place was good but I feel like there are better places in the city. The clientele was very old like 60+. Perhaps that's because it was a Sunday but it is rare that my husband and I go somewhere and are the youngest people in the place. We made reservations via open table and received a confirmation, however, they had no record of it when we arrived. It was not a problem as the place was less than half full but on a busy night I imagine this would be a problem. We ordered then venison and the rack of lamb. They were good but I expect to be blown away by French food especially for what most French restaurants charge. The blueberry bread pudding was better than I expected. I agree with another poster that the food came out unbearably hot. I imagine this is not due to freshness but from bad kitchen timing and food sitting in a warmer too long. Overall, I would not discourage anyone from going there but I won't be making any special trips either.

L L.

Took the parents and in-laws there last weekend, and it was a HUGE hit. My parents lived in France for years and loved it. My mom said she's never had such tasty, authentic pate (foie gras) in the States. The wine was tasty, cocktails were strong, service was great (so French - thorough, yet totally inoffensive), and my salmon was delicious. Definitely a fantastic option for classic French cooking.

Lindsay W.

My favorite French restaurant in Chicago, hands down. Not pretentious, yet so reminiscent of Parisian bistros. Everyone who works there, whether it be the host, owner, sommelier, and server, approaches you with warmth, knowledge, and a joie de vivre. The setting is intimate, and their outdoor patio is just amazing. I had the escargot with pernod to start, the coq au vin for an entree and the crepes suzette for dessert. Incredible all around. They are currently doing a prix fixe menu for $20.09, which I will be sure to not pass up. Bon appetit!!

Mark S.

I've had great meals here, and one so-so meal. On that one occasion, the meal wasn't so bad, but the service was a let down. Normal story- special event, wanting to be treated right, but got treated wrong- our waiter very clearly was a guy in training. I understand the need to train a waiter, but the table shouldn't suffer for it and they pretty much let him go with little supervision. I felt bad for him, but hate when the guy disappears for long periods of time and I get forgotten. The other times I've been here everything went great, but those were week nights. So Kiki looses a star for that and I started going to La Sardine more often for similar dishes for less $(but also with less ambiance).

Steve F.

The good points: the restaurant was attractive and the service (by Abdul I think) was excellent. The bad points: (1) The food was ok but not excellent - the opinion of two of the five of us who are French and know French food. (2) There was a party nearby who was drunk and rowdy but the owner did nothing about it. Finally things got to the point that five tables said "shhhh" at the same time (amazing but true - you could tell how annoyed everyone was. An argument broke out between the offending table and another one nearby but still the owner did nothing. Bottom line - there are too many really good restauants in Chicago to return to Kiki's.

Ellen G.

Kiki's is classic bistro food done really well. If you're craving straightforward French fare this is the place. My husband said the decor is a bit like a mall restaurant but I thought it was cute, even if a little bit cliche.

Ellen P.

A friend recommended Kiki's, and after becoming a somewhat frequent diner, I've yet to have a bad meal here. I especially love their Steak Fritte, and the French Onion Soup is to die for. Desserts are magnifique, as is the wine selection - Kiki knows how to buy French wine, and even bottles are reasonably priced. And last, but certainly not least, considering it's the most genuinely French of the bistros I've tried, the staff is always friendly, and the atmosphere one of bonhomie. Note the free valet mentioned by another reviewer - important plus!

Tiffany S.

Delicious! We had the steak pomme frittes and lamb stew. The lamb is sooooo tender. Steak ordered medium well came out more medium-ish (dark pink insides). Mussels and mushroom soup for appetizer. Those were delicious too. And for dessert, blueberry bread pudding (blueberries on top, not IN the bread) with vanilla ice cream. Wash it all down with a bottle of Clos de May. Absolutely great service. I almost want to take off half a star for the room temperature bread and hard butter, but nah. It was quite a perfect night anyways!

Grace F.

A nice French bistro experience. The service was quite good and very courteous - they were perfectly fine waiting 45 minutes for me and my friend to place our orders (we were too busy talking to look at the menu). I had the French onion soup, which was delicious, and the duck ravioli (wasn't hungry enough for the duck entree, sadly, as I love duck). My companion had the coq au vin, and pronounced it "quite good", which was high praise considering how she had been complaining about not being able to find good coq au vin outside of France (a bit of a snob, I suppose, but I like to think she just has high standards). I found the clientele on a busy Saturday night to be of varying ages (not the seniorly experience others have mentioned/complained of), and the vibe is very convivial. Some annoying people at the table beside us, but such is life. All in all, it was a very pleasant evening, topped off with a fabulous creme brulee. I would recommend this bistro, especially if you're in the area.

Stephanie L.

YUMMY! This little french bistro was so good. First, I went with a group of girlfriends...it was a perfect place because you can get a little loud and you just fit in with the buzz of the restaurant. They have free valet, which is really nice. So we sat down and got a bottle of wine...I would say a middle of the range priced bottle but unfortunately not high quality (def way overpriced bottle of chardonnay). We ordered a couple of apps...a salad, some mushrooms and scallops...delicious. They were all good. Then our waitress came over to get our dinner order but we werent quite ready because we were all talking...she proceeded in saying "well just to let you know, our kitchen is going to be closing and they are waiting on your order so if you could try to make a decision in the next couple of minutes." This is my pet- peeve...I HATE when restaurants do this...you know, its like are you serious. We arent going to be here all night but you shouldnt rush people to order. Plus, the restaurant was still like half full. I mean I would understand if it was like 10PM but it was like 910PM on a Wed with the restaurant still hopping. So that kind of made me a little...eeehhhhh. I just hate that so much. So anyway, we ordered and I got the Ahi Tuna...YUMMY! It was so good. The food was great. I was just a little put off by our waitress saying that. We had the chocolate mousse and it was delicious. I would go back. Its definitely worth a night out!

Jacquelyn G.

I went to Kiki's for the first time this past weekend. I had actually never even heard of this place and randomly noticed it in one of the foodie emails I get. Disappointed that Brasserie Jo is now closed, my husband and I decided to give Kiki's a try. We had an 8 p.m. reservation on a Saturday night and when we got there it was packed. People were in the bar area waiting to be seated - very busy. We had just enough time to order a drink at the bar before Kiki whisked us to our table. Now, not having gone there before, I don't know if it's always so cute, cozy and warm, or if part of the charming lighting (clear globes with votive candles hung from the ceiling) was due to the holiday season. Whatever the case, I loved the decor. Onto the good stuff... My husband and I both started with the French onion soup with gruyere cheese. I haven't had French onion soup in years after a bad experience, but I definitely chose the right place to reintroduce it. It was really delicious and truth be told, I was full after just having that. That aside, I didn't stop there... I had the beef tenderloin for my main, which I requested medium. It was a little closer to medium well but that didn't stop me from devouring all eight ounces... Potatoes au gratin were served on the side, but they weren't my favorite. I stopped after one bite because obviously we were going to be moving onto dessert. We debated between the profiteroles and the blueberry bread pudding and opted for the latter, based on our server's recommendation. Despite the fact that I was truly full, we finished the whole thing, no problem. All of the food was very hearty and tasty, and I truly had a difficult time deciding because so many items on the menu sounded great. Clearly that gives me a reason to return.

Liz K.

Loved it. Best french food I've eaten in Chicago.

Jen P.

My husband and I went to Kiki's for our 4th anniversary after a recommendation from friends that are regulars. When we walked in, I thought that the decor might have been a little over the top, trying too hard to be all Frenchy, but I quickly forgot all about that when the maitre d gushed over us being there for our anniversary. I'm a sucker for friendliness and personal attention. Kiki himself seated us, as he does for everyone, then our waiter promptly aknowledged us and got us set with cocktails. He was the perfect amount of attentive without feeling rushed so we could relax and enjoy being together and savoring our dinner. We indulged in some champers of course, also the pate and it was divine. I had the duck and it was amazing as everyone else suggested. Creme brulee of course was also fantastic. Just overall cozy and romantic, without being stuffy or cold. I did kind of feel like I was in the movie cartoon, Ratatouille, but we had fun with it. Will def be back!

Eric M.

I want to rate Kiki's higher, but have to admit I was let down. The service was alright but our waiter had a very thick accent and it was very hard to understand many of the specials. The food itself was decent, but for the price didn't seem anything special. I look forward to checking it out, especially since Julia Child claimed it as her fave Chicago spot.

Haley L.

Such a wonderful night here!!! My boyfriend and I went here on a double date with a friends new boyfriend and we had such a great experience! Our server was James and he was helpful and friendly and would ask for him again when we go back. One of us was a little afraid of French food but even he converted. I ordered the salad with goat cheese and it was sooo good, i cleaned my plate, which i rarely do. Then i had the duck ravioli appetizer and it was equally as good. But i have to stress how good the salad was. My beau order the escargot and frog legs (two separate appetizers) The escargot was tender, perfectly seasoned and had a lot of extra garlicky sauce to sop up with the bread. The frog legs were in this great creamy sauce that was like a chowder. The other couple ordered pork tenderloin that was great, and it was a lot of food (it was the only entree ordered) and some sort of goat cheese tart that i didn't get to try. The drinks were great, especially the after dinner drinks. The creme brulee was slightly different than the norm with a layer of hard chocolate on the bottom was the perfect end. It was a little on the pricey side for 4 graduate students - our bill with3 cocktails, 1 bottle of wine, and dinner was 120 with tip and the other couple was 80ish with tip. But it was well worth it! All four of us loved it there, the food was incredible and i highly recommend it.

Jasmine D.

Sophisticated but unpretentious. Also, I totally inhaled an order of escargots without even blinking, it was so good. My companions were less than pleased with me.

Layla C.

Really good. We had the foie gras and tarte de provence to start, the duck with leg confit for the main course, and the creme brulee and the pear dessert after dinner. Everything was great, and the bottle of wine that we got with it was fabulous. The duck was cooked perfectly. The tarte de provence was probably my favorite dish, if I had to choose. The only thing I was not impressed with was the bread that they brought to the table when we sat down - it was rather dry. The crowd here tends to be older, so if that bothers you, be aware. We are younger and did not feel out of place.

Manj B.

I went to Kiki's Bistro for the first time this weekend and enjoyed a great meal in their outdoor area with my boyfriend. The weather was actually very nice, and minus the mosquitos (that seemed to have been bitten me maybe 20 times while my boyfriend only once), it was a romantic and quiet dinner - I'm not sure how it is inside. Everything we had was absolutely delicious. I don't remember the names, but I would recommend the scallop appetizer, the shrimp pasta and the lamb chops - everything was done to perfection. The service was a bit slow, but other than that, the waiter was great. Had good recommendations and was just overall a very nice guy.

Amy M.

Actually came here for a business lunch and the atmosphere was perfect. We were given a table a little further away from most diners. Service was attentive, but not overbearing and the food was excellent, including the wonderful desserts. Not somewhere I would go for lunch everyday, but it's a good alternative for days when you want to go a little fancy to celebrate or impress a client.

Jacob K.

This was once my favorite French restaurant in the city with wonderful food, reasonable prices and good service. Unfortunately the last 2 or 3 time I went there the food was mediocre, the service was so-so and the prices have gone up. There are many better places in Chicago fro French food than Kiki's.

Alissa F.

If you are craving French food, Kiki's has delicious and buttery traditional French cuisine...and the wait staff is always very personable, funny, and attentive! It was a bit loud last time we were there, but i think there was a Bastille Day celebration going on, so that could explain the din!

Rita W.

We went here on Saturday night and we all decided to partake in the pre-fix menu for restaurant week. I had the onion soup, duck confit entree, and creme brulee to finish. The onion soup was standard french onion soup - no complaints there. The duck came prepared in two ways with a braised duck leg and pan seared slices of duck - served with sweet sauerkraut, wild rice, and some roasted carrots. I could have done without the braised part of the duck, but I loved the accompanment of the sweet sauerkraut with the roast duck - they went perfectly together. In fact I liked the sauerkraut so much I probably could just order a side of that next time I go back to Kiki's. My creme brulee was awesome - it had a chocolate bottom and I was expecting a hard chocolate crust but it was soft and not too overwhelming. I was so stuffed by dessert but the creme brulee was so good I made myself finish it! My boyfriend chose the friscasse mushroom starter, with salmon and the poached pear dessert. I would have passed on the mushrooms as they just tasted like sauteed mushrooms, but his salmon was done perfectly and his pear dessert was very good! I wish I had enough room to eat more of his dessert! My other friend chose the lamb entree and the lamb was excellent! Served on two kabobs on top of rice, the lamb was tender but roasted to perfection! Kiki's is very romantic inside but yet there is a good mix of different restaurant patrons ranging from couples, familes with children, and large groups of friends coming out for dinner. I did notice that everyone was dressed very nicely. Overall I had a great experience and wouldn't mind coming back for another tasting of Kiki's bistro.

Bess R.

Two words: chocolate crepes. mmm. Dinner was excellent too, of course. I went to Kiki's for the prix fixe cheese menu (ended March 30) - goat cheese and leek tart first, then steak with gorgonzola sauce and potatoes au gratin. Everything I had tasted wonderful, and the atmosphere was very welcoming (unlike many french restaurants). I was there for almost 3 hours with my friends, talking and continuing to eat and drink with no pressure to leave. I will definitely bring my parents here when they come to visit.

R M.

Had the duck. Excellent. No problems with bringing in your own bottle of wine. I felt like I was the youngest person in the restaurant. Free valet!

Kevin L.

Kiki's is consistently great traditional French fare. This is not a trendy spot, but sanctuary for when you want to be guaranteed a great meal with responsive service. I tend to order entrees off their specials menu, but always start with their escargot.

Tony C.

all kitsch, no substance. we went on a week when the restaurant was doing some tie-in with the Toulouse-Lautrec exhibit @ the AIC. server was sporting faux French accent, there was a Audrey Tautou flic on the projector and the entire restaurant was blasting bistro music. "but the food?" you ask. How dare this waste of space occupy the same block as mk? Apparently there is "Old World" French, and there's just stale French. When Bourdain talks about the "Good Old Days", Kiki's is not what he had in mind. Out of all the faux bistros in the city, this ranks, up there with Bistro Margot, as the most unsavory. Nothing tasted good and the menu is uncompletely uninspiring. O how I wish Tournesol was still around.

K B.

Consistency is key, and something most restaurants strive for but rarely achieve. Kiki's has been consistently good for over 10 years that I've been coming here. This is great, hearty French food - nothing very fancy (but a bistro is not supposed to be fancy, though most Americans don't realize it - "bistro" is from the Russian word "quickly", as in a speedy meal). The owners are very often out and about, talking to tables and being very hands on. Although this is in no way a cheap meal, I think that for the value it's one of the most impressive bistros in Chicago. The atmosphere is pretty casual and lively, and the crowd is very mixed. Try it, you won't be disappointed.

T M.

We got the old bait and switch on this one. Made a reservation expecting to partake in the Yelp Favorites Week $25 prix fixe dinner special. Unfortunately, there was no prix fixe dinner menu available, despite my having made note of it with my initial reservation made several weeks ago. In fact, there was no record of my reservation! Service was very very slow, it seems there was only one server for the full patio. I felt for our server, who seemed overwhelmed. However understaffed, the patio was very pleasant to dine on. The food was marginal at best. I was really really excited for this one, but it was definitely a miss. Stick with Le Bouchon.

Jessica M.

I went to Kiki's with a friend - it was the first time for both of us. The restaurant itself is cute. It's got a unique look -- sort of like rustic ski lodge meets eccentric French. The service was .... serviceable. Our waitress didn't waste any time on pleasantries and was pretty invisible. That's kind of ok I guess, though I might have appreciated a bit more friendliness. The food was fairly good. We got the special appetizer -- muscles with sausage in a buttery cream sauce. It was marvelous. The steak pommes frites was ok, though not great, and the desert (blueberry bread pudding) was good, but again, not anything I'll particularly remember. All in all, I'll probably return because it's close by and I love French food. But I think Marche, La Sardine, Brasserie Jo, and Le Bouchon are better.

Mandee M.

For lunch I normally get the Salmon Salad and the French onion soup which is excellent. I also liked the roast duck, which I think came with a side of potato and fresh steamed veggies. They will let you order carry out, and they won't ever advertise this, but since I worked right around the corner, and was craving their french onion soup, they actually gave it to me in the regular bowls that they used and let me bring it back to them later that night. I've never had a bad experience here.

vivian c.

we had a restaurant.com gift certificate and thoroughly enjoyed the food. we had the mussels (tasty) to start, half off wine (wed night), duck (very moist and delicious), and profiteroles (delish!) and creme brulee with chocolate that did not disappoint. the staff and maitre'd were very warm and accomodating. i would definitely go back!

Rae M.

Visited Kiki's multiple times. We loved this place more in the past. Service is great yet the food is just OK in my opinion or maybe it was just the fact we were just right after our Barcelona trip where we explored vast variety of European cuisine. They had great salmon appetizer but our main dish was not very exciting. We still like the décor of this place and will probably visit in the future.

Nicki M.

I went to Kiki's last night for Restaurant Week. The food was good so I would have given it 4 stars but for the fact that we had a 7:45 reservation and weren't seated until almost 8:30. I started with the french onion soup, which was great. Then I had the lamb kebabs medium rare. They were good but I took one home to save room for dessert. The creme brulee was absolutely amazing with the chocolate on the bottom. Yum! I would probably go back - I'm assuming that maybe Kiki's wasn't entirely prepared for the influx of people during Restaurant Week. However, this place is in the middle of absolute nowhere and the neighborhood was a little scary.

Erin A.

Love the atmosphere, reminded me of when I was in France. Great service, unobtrusive but our waiter was around when we needed him. Outstanding menu, I went with rack of lamb, it was perfect. We had 3 appetizers, both pate's (smooth and country) and mussels with a mushroom sauce all three were perfection. I was too stuffed for dessert but the table ordered chocolate mouse which was actually comped for no reason by Kiki's. Can't wait to go back. Also, our reservation was at 6:30 so it was a pretty old (65+) crowd when we got there but the crowd got younger as the night went on.

Dan D.

One of our most treasured establishments! Kiki's is quite a find in fine Chicago dining. My wife and I were engaged here and have returned many times. The ambiance is that of a quaint French country villa. The menu is well populated with traditional options as well as fantastic seasonal entres. The staff is pleasant, helpful, and especially giving of wine suggestions. One of the many benefits to living near Chicago

Lee W.

Kiki's is a nice a spot for French food in the city. I had a trio of "classique" dishes -- escargots, steak frittes and creme brule -- and was a very happy camper. Of course, the dirty martini and bottle sauvignon blanc probably made me even happier! We sat outside, which was very lovely (it was the perfect night!) and our server was very pleasant. I'd definitely recommend trying Kiki's instead of Mon Ami or Brasserie Jo's. Plus, to top it off -- Kiki is the most adorable man ever and is very welcoming of his guests -- he makes a point to talk to all of them. Definitely give it a try !

Beebe G.

My husband took me here for our wedding anniversary. We were seated in the best seat in the house where we could see the entire restaurant. Our server was very nice and knew what she was talking about. We both thoroughly enjoyed our entire meal with wine and the dessert, an apple galette, was extremely delectable! Tres bien!

Miss O.

i went here last friday. i ordered the crab cakes - plus they were fresh - minus - as fresh as it can be in chicago. as my main entree i ordered the rack of lamb. for some reason i thought it would be a lot better than it actually was. it lacked flavor. my boyfriend's french onion soup was fantastic. so was the steak and pomme frites. if i were to go here again - i would stick to the classics.

elizabeth n.

What a gem! Kiki's has been at the top of my list of places to try and I finally got the chance on Saturday night. My fiance and I had 7:30 reservations and we were seated right away at a cozy little corner table that we were very happy with. We did happen to comment on the fact that we were the youngest people in the restaurant by about 30 years, but I can't complain too much since the service is great and the food was wonderful. My fiance ordered the french onion soup which I tried and then kept dipping my spoon into for more mouthfuls! And I don't usually like french onion soup- it was delicious! Then he had the scallops which were enormous and so good, and I had the shrimp pasta which was penne pasta with shrimp, sun dried tomatoes and trios of bell peppers. YUM! We ordered the lemon tart for dessert and cleaned the plate as well. Highly recommended and I can't wait to go back!

Andrew J.

Went there for lunch. Enjoyed the decor very much. The food was very good, as was the wine. Will be back for dinner for the full experience with live music.

kiki m.

we love that kiki seats us himself. the food is superb, never disappointing. the ambiance is quaint. i think this place generally attracts and older audience....40's +. i remember noticing that when i first ate here in my 20's. my husand says this place is one of the few in the city that does scallops right. i love they way they prepare duck, their beet salad, and practically everything on the menu!

Ruth G.

This restaurant was exactly what we were looking for. Three of us met there to catch up and found the decor inviting, the service excellent, great wine selection, fantastic food, and quiet enough to have a great conversation. I had the quail, my friends had the salmon and mussels. All dishes were wonderful. I would definitely go back again.

maddalen t.

I was taken to a biz lunch at Kiki's, and have to name it one of the best restaurants I've ever been to. And I'm from NY, so I am spoiled. I risked the calves' liver (been disappointed many times), and Kiki's served me the most perfectly done dish of these morsels I've had since 30 years ago, when a retired chef from the Four Seasons prepared it for me. The sides (red cabbage and mashed potatoes) were perfection, the waiter was attentive and charming, and even though I turned down dessert, he noted the gleam in my eye when he said "lemon tart," and acted accordingly. Lagniappe! Just absolutely wonderful.

Tammy N.

i've been eating here for 12 years. i've never had a meal that wasn't great. it's not your typical french restaurant in the US. the people who own this place are french but minus the attitude. the food you eat here is hearty and delicious and makes you feel warm inside. the interior is very rustic, again, not your typical french restaurant in the US. it's very family friendly, as long as your kids are use to french food, in the sense that the staff make kids feel welcome. everyone i've ever sent here comes back telling me they loved it. i also like the fact that it is a bit off the beaten chicago path.

penny h.

I had never heard of this French restaurant however i cannot wait to go back. The food was delicious and that is all that mattered to me. The look of the restaurant threw me off a bit and the service was average.. but the food... very ..very ...vey good.

Liliana S.

Hands down, my favorite French restaurant. The restaurant itself is somewhat hidden, but its beautiful inside. Perfectly lit for dinner, a huge wine list, unbelievable escargots, unbelievable food and by far the best creme brulee I have ever had, except of course, for the one in Paris!

professorsmarty z.

I give this resaturant 3 stars because I found the food to be decent but not that great. In terms of authentic French cuisine, the preparation of the dishes weren't really up to par given the prices they charge. I ordered the Pate which came on toasted Brioche. That was good and there was a generous amount for everyone. However, my seared duck breast was over done and not pink and tender as it should be. The other people in my party also had decent but not great food. In terms of atmosphere, the restaurant is really cute and it's a great date setting. But for real French food addicts, try another place.

John G.

Classic French restaurant, starting with KiKi's little Citroen parked in front. I love Tuesdays when they have the Dover sole special. Nicely prepared. I get his great Pommes frites with it, the thin crunchy ones. Escargot is always a good start, but frog legs so so. I love the crepe Suzette which may be the only place in Chicago that serves it. A classic. The service is good and the room has a very homey feel.

Adrienne M.

I was very excited to come here based on the yelp reviews and the online menu, which sounded fantastic. Unfortunately, I was pretty disappointed with the food and didn't find it very authentically French. Since I was in a large group, we had a prix fixe menu, with several choices for each course. The menu labeled them "Les Appetizers", "Les Entrees", and "Les Desserts" (yes, the American spelling of desserts instead of the French spelling with one less 's'), so that was my first clue that this wasn't a very authentic restaurant. For my appetizer, I had the butternut squash ravioli, which was excellent. It was a small portion (just 4 small ravioli) but this was perfect for a 3-course meal. The ravioli had a slightly sweet sauce on them that managed to be very rich without being heavy. It was wonderful. My entree was the salmon, which was a big disappointment. It was cooked well enough (if a bit fatty) but came with no real sauce or accompaniments other than some steamed vegetables. Plain grilled salmon with steamed vegetables is a healthy meal that I eat regularly at home, but at a restaurant you expect something a bit more exciting, especially at the prices they charge for their regular menu (most entrees in the mid-high $20s). Others at our table ordered the steak frites, which did not look particularly appetizing. My dessert was chocolate mousse, which I wasn't very impressed by, but I am very picky about chocolate mousse and rarely find ones I love. The atmosphere was nice, if a bit loud, and the service was great (another sign this place is not authentic, ha), but I found the food disappointing.

Nari H.

Delicious Duck and Lamb dishes along with classic Escargot and savory Rabbit Leg appetizers made this a memorable restaurant. Seated by Kiki, the owner, himself, we enjoyed an excellent red wine and a nice palate cleansing lemon tart dessert to finish the night off. The interior is more dimly lit and romantic. The dress code says dressy, but when I called ahead of time, the lady who answered the phone said I can wear whatever is comfortable. A majority of the people were in the restaurant dressed in suits and dresses, and others came in casual dress. Weather wasn't nice enough for it - but it has outdoor seating! It's a long-standing, tucked away, hidden gem in this area with great food, so I would recommend it to anyone.

Georgia W.

Although my memory of Kiki's will always be tainted by later events that night (ie having my young heart broken), I can't deny that the food here almost made the breakup worth it. Flawless Steak Au Poivre- best steak I have had in a long time. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, for you to whisper all your secrets over a glass of wine. I will likely never return to Chicago, but if I ever do, you will see me here. I will admit that the oysters aren't a must have, but they definitely weren't what ruined my night.

David S.

Remember when eating at KIKI'S - everything in moderation...including moderation. Let me describe the philosophy behind the cuisine at KIKI'S with a short parable...as for butter versus margarine, I trust cow's more than chemists. That said, by all means try their cheese platter - it's milk's leap to mortality.

Mark C.

What an amazing tucked away place. If you're tired of yelping River North restaurants and seeing "American or Italian Steakhouse" and then paying 35$ for a big plate and small food portion, this is the place for you. You will get your moneys worth here and the atmosphere is perfect for family or a date. Average entree price $20-25. In my case we went in for our 1 year anniversary but did not mention it specifically. We ordered an appetizer of mushroom (Ragout de Champignons) which tasted amazing and our entrees were Chicken (Poulet Roti) and a Duck Salad (Sautee Duck Breast) with a side of Ratatouille. Both entrees and side came out right after we finished our appetizer and they looked/tasted amazing. The chicken was a half chicken with mashed potatoes and greenbeans which sounds normal but let me explain. Everyone can get chicken thigh and legs right, that's easy, but this chicken breast was probably one of the top 10 juiciest chicken breasts I have had. There's a fine line in timing before the breast tastes dry but these chefs nailed it. I am someone who eats whole rotisserie chickens by myself and I usually dread the chicken breast. The duck was cooked perfectly and slightly pink and the salad was arranged with thought. Not only did the chefs win me over, but the service was outstanding (again amazing for only a 3$$$ restaurant). Vino our server made sure our night was wonderful. The supporting staff made sure our glasses were never half empty and we never had to ask for more bread, it was given without asking. Plates never crowded our table, and servers were never overaggressive with cleaning. To top it off, at the end of the night Vino surprised us with a well made chocolate mousse cake and a candle saying he overheard that it was our anniversary when we were talking to our neighbor table. Overall I have never felt so valued as a customer at a restaurant and I appreciate Kiki's Bistro staff for making this a wonderful anniversary. tl;dr Amazing value, friendly staff and service, makes your night a little extra special without killing your wallet

Mickey H.

Very warm, welcoming spot. Came for Valentines day in 2014, had such a great time that we had to come back this year. The owner and wife are so incredibly welcoming and kind, they seem to treat everyone like a guest in their own home. The food was great, our appetizer of wild mushrooms and foie gras was very tasty. I really enjoyed my duck breast and leg, and my girlfriend's beef dish was on point. I'm usually intimidated by a place where I struggle to pronounce everything on the menu, but our waiter was very helpful in making great recommendations. Wine list is great, I don't know much about French wines, but we were able to find a nice, heavy wine that paired pretty well with our meal. Really enjoy this place, the food is great and the service is fantastic. Overall, I would recommend checking this out as a date night spot.

David S.

Kiki's Bistro has excellent French food and great service. We loved the wild mushroom appetizer and lamb stew. Kiki is a wonderful host and the location is great as well!

Karma K.

I don't even like French food but Kiki's has it goin on. It's pretty much the queen of French Cuisine on the Northside. Lots of pretty people here. Pretty people and rich people. I like both so I like it here. LOLZ I've hosted private work events here and I will say the staff in wonderful to work with. We can be difficult with strange requests for the invoice, some difficult guests and changes to menu and number of guests. Kiki's always handles everything professionally and never make me feel like I'm a pain their ass (but I know I am and I really do feel bad)! Service is smooth as can be. Like I said, they've got this French bistro thing going on! The space is small and intimate, just like a French Bistro should be. My go to menu items are the roast chicken with herbs. Get it with the mashed potatoes for a great comforting meal. My hubs likes the Steak Pommes Frites. They put a twist on the steak part by serving a butt steak instead of a more traditional strip or filet. So French fare is not my favorite but I really do like Kiki's. It's a Northside treasure.

Jackie M.

I've been here few times and had a voucher where I was denied to use. The service was okay and I felt like I was mistreated. It seems like the waiter cater more to their older patrons who are frequent customers. I had the French onion soup which was tad salty on the broth but the cheese was delicious. The frog for appetizer was good..the skater fish was ok average. overall food was good but not amazing. There are other options in the city for better service and good food.

Morgan Richelle M.

This place is so charming; especially if you stop by on a late afternoon or evening when the sun is starting to set. They'll dim the lights, and the rustic charm begins to fill the room even more. I love the décor and all of the photos and memorabilia displayed on the wall. There is something to look at and admire in every direction. The food is incredible. This is a great place to bring a date or attend on a family outing. The menu is broad and there are plenty of options for your whole party. Sometimes, if you are lucky, you may run into Kiki! :)

Hollina U.

Had dinner with my French language classmates on Monday. I liked the restaurant, but nothing really stood out for me. The escargot was good--- but then again I've never had bad escargot because I've only ordered it like four times in my life... Classmates ordered the tarte de Provence and pate-- both not bad. I had the magret de canard--- which I thought was just okay. I'm really picky when it comes to duck though. Now in hindsight I wished I had visited their website beforehand to order the coq au vin, since they're supposed to be known for it. Had the profiteroles and tarte aux pommes for dessert--- both yummy.... After all this food, it was understandable that I left in a food coma. The service was wonderful-- the waiter put up with my indecisiveness when trying to decide between the salmon or the duck. Also, we took forever to decide while waiting for the last person in our party to decide--- and was the last table to leave that night, but they didn't rush us at all. And Kiki was there--- apparently he seats people. Love it! His car is so cute too!!

Daniel M.

Went there for Valentine's Day! Perfect place for it - Great food, service, very French!

Lorelei C.

It may have been cold here in Chicago tonight but I felt nothing but comfort and warmth when I walked into Kiki's Bistro this evening. This place is Incredible, The ambiance, just so warm and inviting.. The restaurant's interior makes one feel as though they have stepped back in time, to a lovely French Bistro, charming to say the least, such a great mellow vibe/feeling being here. They have lovely tables set up as well a great bar area if that's what you would prefer. And.. the food, I had grilled salmon in a red wine sauce with mashed potatoes as did everyone at my table and we all agreed it was a phenominal dish/entrée. And tonight was my very first Creme' Brulee' and my Aunt had told me Kiki's makes the best in the city, and.. it had to be the most decadent, fantastic dessert I have ever had.. And. as if that wasn't enough Kiki sent us over this great piece of chocolate bread pudding cake, so good! And yes, I am spoiled.. had not 1 glass but 2 glasses of Champagne this evening.. Just have to say, Kiki is the most personable host, he walks around the restaurant talking with people, he is totally hands on. His staff is one of the best I have ever seen, truly. So, in closing, if you are looking for a phenominal touch of France in our very windy city you owe it to yourself to visit Kiki's Bistro. You will feel warm and happy here, and you will most likely get to meet Kiki.. That alone is worth the visit...

Linda C.

We had reservation here and was seated immediately. We had the mushroom fricassee and the mussels. We had the half of Kiki's roasted chicken and the steak pommes frittes. The pomme frittes were the very best. They were light and airy. It was a hugh portion. We shared the lemon tart with raspberry sauce and the raspberry sorbet. Everything was very tasty. We also had a diet coke and a ice tea. We had the early pre fixe for $29.95.

Dos T.

Kiki & Madame Kiki are almost always on had to greet you and Kiki will practice your French speaking with you if they aren't too busy. Expect a full house on Christmas Eve, NYe, Bastille day and such and plan for a busy serving crew who will still be happy to make your experience grand but will be user the gun to be sure - but a nice cosy time can be had any Monday- Saturday night at a more leisurely pace. Exposed wood beams, wood floors, full wall mural & copper top bar add to the warmth and charm of this gem - & in the winter season glass candle orbs floating in the air add whimsy. Madame Kiki hosts rotating Chicago contemporary artists works on the Bistro 'a seating area walls. Just a few blocks West of Bloomingdales Takes open table reservations or always can reserve by calling 312.335.kiki. Not open for lunch. Can be contacted to discuss hosting private events.

Carter D.

I live a few blocks from this place and can walk here very easily. I think I have been here 3 times total, fairly spaced apart. Whenever I go, I always think, why did I come here again. It's just so unmemorable in every way. The food is mediocre, and not very French either. I am 39 and I feel SO young at this place. The average age of their customers is easily in their 60's or older. Not to be ageist, but everything about the place feels old - the decor, the menu, the patrons. There are a few other Chicago restaurants with "Bistro" in their name that are infinitely better. You can search and find them on your own, but my favorite is Bistro Champagne in Lincoln Square.

Dani M.

This was a toughie. I really wanted to be blown away. Stopped here last night for dinner with my boyfriend and his Aunts. We had a reservation originally for 7:30 p.m. but ended up arriving at 7. To Kiki's credit, our early arrival did not phase them at all and we were promptly seated. That being said, after taking everything into consideration I'd give Kiki's a 3.5 1st: Atmosphere. I thought that the restaurant itself was quite lovely. Huge fan of the wooden slats comprising the ceiling with the exposed duct work above. All of the wood touches really warmed up the space. Although an adorable space, the restaurant seemed focus on cramming every table it could inside. Our group of four were quite close to the other tables and even the wait staff had issues navigating the crowded passages. 2nd: Service. Fantastic. Our server (and sadly I have forgotten his name!) was great. He took the time to explain the menu and the evening's specials, recommended wines, and was just great. Our water glasses never got less than half full and they kept the wine and vodka flowing smoothly too. 3rd: Food. Shared App: Foie gras special with toasted brioche, braised cabbage, and a sherry gastrique. Very tasty although a little small to share for a party of 4. 1st Courses: Endive salad, Mache & Frisee salad, Beet salad, and French Onion soup. Everyone really liked their dishes. The boyfriend said it was the best french onion soup he's ever had -- including in Paris! Mains: 2 Boeuf Bourguignon, Magret du Canard (Duck), and Steak Pommes Frites. All three of my dining companions really enjoyed their entrees. I, on the other hand, was left feeling a little meh. I had the boeuf bourguignon. I feel that I would have really enjoyed it had I not just cooked a version of this at home last week. Given that I though my version came pretty close to this, I just couldn't get excited about it knowing we just shelled out $30 for what I could make at home less than half the cost. Dessert: Creme Brulee. Very good. Highly recommended. Overall, a nice place to try, but with all that Chicago has to offer I'm not sure I'd become a repeat customer here.

Burak G.

Amazing food. Amazing ambiance. Amazing service.

Dennis P.

We had a wonderful Cassoulet...truly, one of the best we've had. The butt steak came to the table pounded 1/4" thick with little if any flavor whatsoever-disappointing at best.. Kiki's food has been traditionally consistent and better than average quality---SKIP the butt steak and pomme frites! Would recommend the chefs Cassoulet!!! Dennis and Patricia

Kim B.

The best Italian I've had in Chicago. Went with local friends who love this place. Kiki was there which was fun. Started with the lyonnaise salad and it was spot on. My friends had the escargot and pâté, both great. I had the chicken vionnasse and it was so good. I had to stop myself by eating half so I could have leftovers. Will be back. PS: free valet

Hannah N.

This place smells like nostalgia and old forgotten dreams. Maybe because the average age of the clientele was somewhere in the 50-60s. Rustic French food, but no finesse to go along with the bocuse d'or poster on the wall. I would have probably had a completely different impression had the wall been displaying pictures of farmers, I'm sure. We asked the server what was in the cocktails and he told us that the signature cocktail had cranberry and "some sort of fancy liquor that I can find out the name of if you really want to know" (it was St Germaine). Also I know nothing about wine since I'm primarily a whiskey drinker, but I also don't trust French places that pour you a full glass of wine, like up to the top full, given that it is my understanding that tasting portions are actually small for a reason (that isn't related to money but related to your olfactory senses/aeration). Bread was cold and hard and chewy. Mushroom ragout and gazpacho were fine and nothing to write home about. Chicken salad was extremely bland with flavorless cuts of dry meat (this was only good since I had just decided I really need to go on a diet and this seemed adequately tasteless). Calf liver was also slightly chewy since it was not the requested medium rare, closer to well. Duck was very fatty, and yes ducks are inherently fatty (that's why they're so delish), but this was the kind of fatty you would expect when the fat layer isn't rendered out properly. That being said, I still give this place 2 stars instead of 1 because of the allure of nostalgia and faithfulness. This place is like an old paperback book. Even if it wasn't a particularly enjoyable book, there still is something charming and moving about the ancient dusty smell of the pages of an old book.

John K.

Been coming here awhile but haven't been around in about three years. Same old place (rustic roadside cottage by my view) but other family members were more of a fan than I. Still it's very good. The French onion soup is perfection! Right amount of sherry, carmelized onions and gruyere cheese make it a must have. Another person had the lamb which was deemed very good. We had the trout almondine. While very good the fish edges were browned but edible (their version/style). Moist and tender. Lots of green beans on the menu, fresh done well. However, the pomme frites were a bit overdone though and thus disappointing. Food was served hot and wait staff was attentive. Two notes: the menu online is different with a slight difference in prices. A surprise while leaving, valet was complimentary.

Sara K.

Kiki is a cute elderly man who took us to our seats and then disappeared. The menu online is different than the one in the restaurant. I specifically went there to try their Coq au Vin which was not available. We had the mushroom and gazpacho as appetizers and they were decent but the main entrees were on the bad side. My duck was dry and chewy and the sauce oversalted. My friend had the chicken salad which tasted bland. All in all, not worth the 4 stars it gets on Yelp.

Nathan S.

We showed up early for our reservation and they had not problem with getting seating rather quickly. I ordered mussels (really good) and some steak dish with French Fries. Very cozy and inviting place. Good food and a decent drink menu.

Jeffrey Z.

We went here on a weeknight evening kind of early and were one of a few tables filled. We started off with the cauliflower soup special, which was creamy and delicious, and the Ragout de Champignons, which was very good but could have used a couple more crostinis. For the entrees, I had the short rib, and my wife had the filet. The short rib was very good but a little drier than I prefer a short rib. The included polenta was great, and I really enjoyed the sauce, a red wine reduction. My wife ordered the filet medium rare and it showed up mostly medium+, although a smaller section of it was closer to medium rare. It was a little dry but had decent flavor and, while not awful, was easily the worst dish we tried. For dessert, we shared the creme brûlée, which was one of the best we've had. It was decadent, and we loved the layer of cool chocolate on the bottom. The service was good and very friendly, although waiter could have been more attentive. The atmosphere was more for an older crowd, but it was charming and rustic nonetheless. I imagine we will be back at some point soon.

Julien M.

Recently went to Chicago to visit a friend. Since we were came from France, we decided to hit a French Restaurant which wouldn't break the bank. We picked Kiki's based on the Yelp Reviews. I must say we were quite disappointed. Location/Restaurant Quite a ways from Magnificent Mile, so we had to catch a cab to get there. The restaurant was quite cosy and nice. Great for a nice dinner. The waiting staff was great as well. Our Meal I always order the French onion soup whenever i see it on the menu and to me theirs was just soso. I always love it when the Gruyere is completely melted with a little burn marks. This time, it was simply melted on top. Still it was good. My friend had their House Salad and that was just ok. I had the lamb stew (Navarin d'Agneau Printanier) and my friend had their pasta (Papperdelle Pasta with Summer Vegetables) I love lamb and their stew meat was great. However, that's the really the only thing i touched. It seemed like their veggies came from a frozen veggie bag. Just didnt feel fresh. Also they didnt have Haricot verts but had green beans. Or overgrown haricot verts, regardless, i didnt touch any of the veggies since they really didnt feel fresh. With regards to the Pasta, it was simply too salty and creamy. My friend couldn't finish it. Yes, it's a french place but she doesn't eat much meat and so that's what she got. Regardless, we ended not getting dessert either cause we had been so disappointed... 3 Stars.

Jeff E.

I have been going here for years. This is a great place for a special occasion or just a weeknight when you don't feel like cooking. I have ordered most of the things on the menu, and haven't had a bad meal yet. I especially love their escargot as well as the lamb stew. This is also a great place to grab a quick pre-theater dinner, as it is not far from the theater district, but far enough to avoid the pre-theater crowds. They are always happy to accommodate you if you are in a hurry. Best of all...FREE valet parking!

Claudia D.

We celebrated our wedding anniversary number 31 here. It was perfect. Quiet enough to converse without having to shout, nor fear being overheard. A gypsy jazz combo played in the background and we ha a lovely three course meal, just the two of us. Kiki's provides great value and reliably very good food, service, and atmosphere. I've never been disappointed here and highly recommend Kiki's Bistro.

Gavin H.

Found this place through a coupon deal, but I'm so glad we did! This is a charming and very comfortable French bistro just far enough from the loop that you feel like you are in a "quiet zone" but close enough that it only took us two minutes by car from Neiman Marcus shopping. We got there sort of on the early side on a Saturday night, but it soon filled up, so reservations for prime time slots might be a good idea. Food was delicious: French onion soup was awesome; roast duck was perfect, salads creative and tasty, and crepes a la mode sinful. Wine list awesome. Service will impress: personable, attentive. and very responsive. The owner, Kiki himself, stopped by to say hello and helped make this a great find for us! Valet parking guys are very cool and will take good care of you. Oh, reserving that last star for our next visit here, but I'm pretty sure it is coming soon!

Chris G.

Though I may not be rich in my pockets, today's lunch at Kiki's made me feel like a King. Coq au Vin. This is true ambrosia because it tastes like the chef at Kiki's has been mastering this dish and its velvety sauce for decades. All of the stewed carrots, white asparagus, fingerling potatoes and onion bulbs sit there in a chocolately seduction. Spoon the chicken from the bones and quickly follow by sopping up that dark-meat liquor with a coin of French bread to achieve the desired mouthgasm. If the meal solely consisted of Kiki's Coq au Vin, I'd still credit them 5 stars. But we worked our way toward this dish by starting off with escargot succulent enough for the fussiest diplomat and mussels bathed in a rich, creamy butter sauce that we also fantasized about having as a savory ice cream or mousse. There were shallots or something similar caked onto some of the mussel shells that made for a wonderful licking. I requested a dish of pommes frites out of curiosity and while they're perfectly good crisps, we could have stood for them to be more thickly cut, so as to enjoy a bit more soft potato essence. Thanks to your Yelp reviews, we decided to order a lemon tart but there was no way I could leave today without trying Kiki's chocolate mousse. I must explain that the restaurant was filled mostly with seniors who appeared to be distinguished, happy regulars, so they knew the deal me thinks. But I must've made some pretty X-rated facial expressions and sounds because once I recovered from the pleasurable blackout of tasting the mousse, the looks on their faces were straight out of a laugh scene in the BBC's Keeping Up Appearances sitcom. I've never had scratch whipped cream confident enough to refuse a cane-sugared mask yet compliment such a silken, smooth, cocoa delicious mousse. Listen, this was about a 2 hour lunch because they do no rush you through your meal and take great care in bringing to the table phenomenal cuisine. Don't go here and be in a hurry. And I can kick myself for passing this place up as many times. We waited too long, because here you eat like Gods. See, I've recently been sulking at the closure of my favorite French BYOB named Cotes du Rhone, but Kiki's is like an ultimate sneak-up lover that comes along while you're messy-mascara'd and snotty-nosed... then sensually presses your reset button when you least expect, but need it.

Basel T.

Our first visit to KIKI's Bistro was about three months ago. Since then, I have been there about 6 times. We absolutely love this place. The food is out of this worls, and their wine menu is out of this world. The staff are absolutely awesome and very friendly. I will give this place 10 stars. It is truly one of Chicago's Finest Restaurants. I can't wait to go there again!!

Kris G.

I love it here, clearly. I normally can't afford a place with three $ by its name. In fact, some two $ places can make me sweat if I want to go all out for a meal. However, I got lucky in that a friend canceled a wedding I was supposed to be in (it took me a while to see the positive side of this situation, but I found it--food). No longer having to pay for your bridesmaid dress means you can buy one expensive dinner. That I did and I chose Kiki's and brought my friend along to treat her to a birthday dinner. So, when we walked in it was clearly we were the youngest ones there. It was clear we were the youngest ones there by about 40 years. I've never had a dining experience like that before. So, I understood we weren't the target clientele and was expecting to, perhaps, be treated a little differently and maybe talked down to. Not at all. The exact opposite, in fact. Our waiter (whose name I cannot remember) was so friendly and welcoming, willing to give us all the time we wanted to look over the menu and even gave us tips on how to look fancy without needing to know anything about being a fancy person. My friend and I, we're not fancy peoples. We had a ball--my friend started with a French Onion soup that she gushed over, I had the soft shell crab which I could have eaten four of it was so good. I was afraid that, at this price point, we were going to get the tiny little dishes the size of our appetizers for our meal. It's the common French restaurant stereotype assumption. Again, wrong. My steak frites was quite large and so was my friend's coq au vin. Not so massive that we weren't about to eat it all, though. Oh, and the creme brulee, as others have noted, should be had no matter how stuffed at the end of your meal you think you are. We both still dream about this meal. Heaven!

Chad G.

Duck pate very good. Salmon of the day and lamb stew very good. Mushroom ragout good. Dessert/Pastries amazing.

Kristina K.

Disappointing. Felt rushed from the first second we stepped into the restaurant. Originally our table was in a corner tucked between two larger tables. As I watched two peoples butt cheeks rub against the table, I immediately asked to be moved. Every server was practically sprinting from table to table to kitchen. I often felt a gust of wind as servers flew by with their trays - full of food - inches over my head. For a "romantic" French restaurant, I wasn't too impressed. I still wonder what was the rush for?! Ordered steak frites - not memorable. Asparagus as a side - 4 stalks no seasoning. French onion soup - an atrocity. The cheese wasn't melted, the crouton a sponge-y mush. Kiki's should be embarrassed for this poor quality. There are hundreds of restaurants in Chicago, don't waste your time.

Michael B.

Some friends took us there and it was lovely. A classic, rustic French bistro without the trendiness and hipster attitude or crowd. It was an older, sophisticated crowd, there for a nicely prepared and served meal and great conversation with dear friends. The food is classic French bistro with daily specials. We all had seafood, scallops, soft shell crab, trout and salmon and nothing disappointed. The wait staff are seasoned A list pros and enhance the experience with their sophistication and professionalism. Comfortably classy, intimate and yes romantic without being over the top or in your face. They have a good reasonably priced french wine list to compliment the overall lovely experience.

M C.

A fine French dining experience without the pretention. The ambiance as you walk in gives a rustic, intimate "chateau" feeling and the attentive service allows you to relax and enjoy good food, excellent wine and your company. Our party of four started with fois gras (which, if there was any negative remark about the evening, was this small portion size), house salads with a mustard dressing, and a delicious French onion soup( one of the best I've tried). The entree portions were large and beautifully presented ( and that's saying a lot considering it was steak pommes frites. Another ordered the pappardelle and said it was excellent. The braised beef short rib was tender and flavorful. Although dinner was filling, you cannot visit a place like this without ordering dessert. The two page spread made it hard to choose just one dessert, so our party indulged in three to share. The apple tarte was finely shaved apples wallowing in a rich, thick cinnamon sauce and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The chocolate mousse "cake" was so smooth, it was almost sinful and the chocolate profiteroles were light with the right amount of sweet cream. Overall the meal was more than enjoyable and we left happy and filled. A great restaurant for a romantic evening, small gathering of old friends, special celebration. Parking is street, with valet. Area is quiet on weekend nights. Drinks are (deliciously) strong.

Virginia C.

Imagine our surprise when our server brought my niece a whole second dinner to take away after it was discovered that her request for a doggie bag had been overlooked after her plate had been cleared! In addition to wonderful food this attention to customer service is greatly appreciated.

Lola K P.

I really liked this old-school place with all the comfortable round booths and all the standard French posters adorning the walls. The food was very good, and the both of us who've stayed in Paris spent the rest of the time reminiscing and trading stories of our time there and catching up on girl talk, simply lovely. Service was very nice and solicitous, Kiki was making the rounds and dropped by our table too. Il était très sympa, et nous avons bavardé un peu. What a nice evening.

John G.

What can I say about Kiki's Bistro? This place is just flat out amazing. We went there to celebrate my in-law's 40th wedding anniversary and could not have been more pleased with this fantastic place. The ambiance hits us as soon as we walked in. We were greeted by Kiki himself and told that our table would be ready momentarily. The bartender recommended some red wine that we ultimately would consume three bottles of during the course of appetizers, entrees, and dessert. The French onion soup was great. My oysters & caviar were fabulous, and the escargot seemed to please those who ordered it. It should be said at this point that our waiter was amazing. He provided recommendations for each phase of our meal and was completely down to earth about them. Not snooty in the least. Of note: we noticed that the ladies were served before the gentlemen, from orders taken, to wine glasses filled, this guy had his craft perfectly honed. I wish I could recall his name to give him proper recognition. On to dinner ... three of our party ordered the steak au pauvre (a favorite meal that my father-in-law cooks at home). All were pleasantly surprised and remarked about how good it was. My lamb stew was completely perfect. The lamb practically melted in your mouth. The bowl went back to the kitchen white (I used the remaining bread to sop up every last drop of broth). My mother-in-law's salmon was great too (I got to have a small taste). Dessert was unsurprisingly great as well. Of course, we got a creme brulee (with a layer of chocolate underneath) but we also get a pear & almond tart to go with and we all shared. The brought out a little glass of dessert wine to go with which was a nice little surprise. I'm not a dessert wine type of person, but enjoyed it just because it was such a nice touch. Finally, on a lark, my mother-in-law decided that she wanted a picture with Kiki. He was gracious and obliged. Bottom line, I wish I could give Kiki's Bistro better than 5 stars, but since that's the best I can rate here, I happily give them all five. I recommend this place to anyone who wants to celebrate a milestone, impress a date, or just wants some damn good food, wine & service.

Phil P.

My wife and I returned here for our anniversary dinner. The restaurant is filled with French posters and is warm and inviting. Our server was both friendly and professional, and recommended good whites for us. I thought I'd try the cream of cauliflower soup and it did not disappoint. For dinner my wife had steak with peppercorn, which gave it a sharp flavor, and she couldn't stop eating the frites. I had lamb chops with mashed potatoes which were excellent. Usually lamb chops are small and appear to have very little meat but not these! We closed by splitting profiteroles. We were not rushed at all and thoroughly enjoyed our first night out in a long time. We enjoy dining here because it is authentically French, and just serves good food in a classy but friendly atmosphere.

Jenny B.

I come here often It is a very good place, good food service beautiful everything hit the spot, will keep come back.

Tiff W.

We came to Kiki's Bistro for a pre-Christmas dinner with my boyfriend's parents and as soon as I walked in, I was in love. The floating candles, Kiki walking people to their tables, the giant magnum bottles of champagne decorating the interior...I was smitten. And when I think about French food, I have to compare everything to Bistro Campagne up in Lincoln Square, which is about half of the size of Kiki's. The inside of Kiki's is surprisingly big when you walk in, and the restaurant was crowded for a random Wednesday night. I was slightly disappointed by the food. Having heard so many great things about Kiki's from friends & coworkers, I was expecting the food to be amazing, but throughout the meal, I kept thinking "If you think Kiki's is good, just wait until you try Bistro Campagne!" My Magret de Canard was tasty, but unremarkable. I didn't get an appetizer, but everyone at our table who got the Soupe A L'Oignon Gratinee thought that it was overly salty. Kiki's was good and I'm glad I tried it out, but I'd definitely pick Bistro Campagne over Kiki's for the food.

Alex P.

ZERO. IF I COULD GIVE NEGATIVE STARS I WOULD!!!! Do not go to this restaurant. the food is horrible the staff is even worse. Stuck up snobby servers, with Food not fit for a fast food restaurant. Asking for a drink is like asking for some huge favor, the food sucks, the attitude even worse. Ive eaten at many french places and this takes the cake as the worst!!!! Do not waist your time or your money at this place! I could supply a long list of other individuals that agree 100% and have given it multiple chances. HORRIBLE! DO NOT GO!

David R.

I have read that this restaurant led the "revitalization" of River North back in the early 1990's. And it sure feels like it, too. There was a certain staleness to the entire experience. The staff were aloof, the food plain and uninspired, the dining room uncomfortably hushed, and the crowd a lot older than I expected for the area. My friend and I were probably the youngest people in there by a couple of decades. The beet salad was disappointing--a few greens, bland green beans, chopped walnuts, and beet slices that could have come from a can. There was supposed to be a hazelnut dressing but I didn't see or taste anything like that. Thankfully, the mushroom ragout was amazing--so savory and flavorful. I could eat a bowl of this with some crusty bread for several meals per week. Well, in the wintertime anyway. Frankly, with fall around the corner...it's ALMOST enough to entice me back. For the entree, I violated a cardinal tenet of dining out (sorry, Penny) and ordered the poulet roti (roasted chicken). It tasted fine, just slightly on the bland side, but the meat was dry. I tried my friend's steak frites, but that wasn't any better. I did like the frites though. Dessert was another push. I tried the lemon tart--again, boring and plain--but I should have gone for the warm blueberry bread pudding. Maybe I'll sneak in here one night near closing just for dessert and order that. I can't see returning for dinner though: except for the mushroom ragout, the food is all comme ci, comme ca. Chicago is blessed with several great French restaurants, but unfortunately Kiki's is not among them.

Caroline A.

Classic French cuisine is probably my favorite type of food. Sure, it's not as adventurous as other restaurants in the city, but it's delicious, consistent and if they do it right, I'm going to love it. My three best friends from high school and I had a mini-reunion dinner here. The atmosphere is... well, that of a classic French bistro. It is rustic, charming and terribly romantic. This is definitely an ideal date spot. You'll notice that most of the patrons here are 50-plus in terms of age. There are no trendy designer jeans with striped shirts here... but ultra classy gentlemen with their equally elegant significant others. It was really sweet to watch the older couples as I was waiting for my friends. It was lovely. The menu is traditional, and everything we had was perfect. I had the goat cheese salad, and as another yelper mentioned, it was perfectly dressed. For my main course, I had the duck... because I love duck. The wild rice was a little bland, but the braised cabbage was delicious and went very nicely with the duck. J-Money had the lamb, and she said it was a little over seasoned, but very good. For dessert, the four of us split an order of Creme Brulee and the Bluberry Bread Pudding. The Creme Brulee had a chocolate bottom that was a very nice surprise. It was very good... but I still love the one at RL better. The Blueberry Bread Pudding is perfect for those who want a dessert that is not overly sweet. The four of us sat and dined for about 2.5 hours. And nobody bothered us. Nobody rushed us. It was loads of fun :) Free valet too. Yay.

Brendan M.

This place is great. Love the steak. Excellent service.

Jen N.

We had a fantastic server who recommended different dishes. The sea bass is delicious, as are the appetizers. I tried the boeuf bourguignon, my first time having it and honestly I did not care for it because the meat was fatty and I did not like the large pearl onions in it, but the flavor was great and very rich. If you have dessert, try to chocolate mousse. The food here is lovely, the ambiance nice, and I will definitely be back again.

Michael E.

Though I've had friends introduce me to many places in the city, Kiki's was one that no one mentioned. This lovely French bistro located in Near North Side is tucked away in an old building that sits quietly by the rumbling Brown line. To begin, there is complementary valet, which in a big value due to the parking debacle our Mayor has put us in. As we entered, we were greeted by George......oops, I meant Kiki. This establishment has been at this location for 19 years, but Kiki's was actually located in the Loop for 20 years prior to that and folks in this restaurant were much older, but don't let that deter you younger folks from considering trying this restaurant. Zac was our server and did an excellent job of making recommendations. We started out with a goat cheese salad and escargot. Zac provided some advice on our entrees and indicated that the steak and duck were excellent, so we took his advice and ordered them which I'm glad we did as they were very good. He also helped pair a nice wine with our meal. Finally, we topped off the meal with dessert.....a profiterole (I have Carol K to thank for turning me onto this lovely dessert) and an egg custard which were perfect. Now I would have given this establishment 5 stars, but we found that the busboys were constantly coming over to try and clean off our plates when in fact they were still half full with food. At these prices, meals are more leisurely and the place was not packed, so we were taking our time, but it is annoying to keep telling the bus boys "no, we are not done yet." A small little tweak in service will get them up to 5 stars with me if it is fixed the next time I partronized this location. This is a perfect place for a perfect French meal in the city if I ever did experience one and you should too.

Luis E.

Best French Rest in Chicago!!!!

Stephanie N.

If you love French Food then Kiki's is the place to go. I truly love it here and honestly I am only giving it four stars because of Kiki himself. If he wants patrons then he needs to be nicer. However, the food is truly authentic and the wait staff are so kind and accommodating. Also, their champagne / wine selection is outstanding.

Tim B.

Really enjoyed Kiki's and it may very well become our favorite little local haunt. As expected, service, food & ambience were every bit of a french bistro. Succulent duck, crisp frites (and haricot verts) and one of the best Beef bourguignon we have had stateside. The lighting was perfect the noise levels subdued allowing for undistracted conversation. Th emenu as you could guess is french, good specials, solid wine list and again great service

Dennis S.

Classic French bistro fare. Kiki's continues to fill the "classic not creative" niche for us. Some of their food can be terrific, some can be boring, but the tradition French bistro items are still prepared and presented the way they would be in France. The wine list has plenty of reasonably priced wines. We picked the pricier of their two Bordeaux Blancs, which was unusually tame for a white from Bordeaux. But ok. Our starters were awesome - I had mussels, the best I've had in Chicago over the last three years. My wife had a fricassée of mushrooms, strongly soaked in a Madeira wine sauce. It was excellent - my appetizer choice for our next visit. We both had the hanger steak with pommes frites - decent steak and a generous serving of great pommes frites. Dessert was terrible - a lemon tart with barely a taste of lemon and chocolate mousse with barely a taste of chocolate. If it doesn't sound exciting - after the appetizers, it wasn't. But Kiki's is completely predictable, with classic unchanging French bistro menu choices (far more choices than you'll get in a bistro in France). It's a very pleasant setting with good attentive service and reasonable prices. Dependable French comfort food. That's why I still give it four stars. Although it would be nice if they did something about the desserts. They don't need to be that bland.

Tim H.

I've been to Kiki's twice and both visits have been delightful. Kiki's is what it says it is: an old fashioned French bistro. It serves all the standards, and it does them as well as anyone in town. Service is great, cordial, friendly, and professional. Pricewise, it's comparable to other restaurants of its type. They do, however, over a limited early bird fixed price menu if you order before 6.30. The room is very warm and inviting, although it's location is kind of off the beaten path. Parking isn't too bad here. I think that free parking can often be found around this neighborhood. Note too that even at some of the nearby metered locations, parkers don't need to feed the Daleys (that is, the parking kiosks that will be with us for the next 75 years thanks to a very poor decision made by the last mayor of Chicago) after 6.00PM.

renee k.

This is old school French, not froufrou, and you can have a conversation without yelling. Kiki's is so romantic around the holidays -- the glass globes w/candles glowing, the pink cloths and greenery on the table. We've enjoyed many meals here. The wait staff is excellent. They don't hover, but they're there when you need them. The salmon special is always delicious, somehow, slightly different every time. You can't go wrong with the steak frites. Almost everything on the menu is delicious. The only miss is the liver which was tough and accompanied by way too sweet red cabbage. Kiki strolls the room to make sure everything is going smoothly.

Maria S.

I can definitely understand why my friend and I were the youngest people dining here by about 30 years.... There is not any flashy, modern decor and the menu does not offer any kind of forward-thinking fusion food that my generation is drawn to. However, what they do, they do well. My dinner consisted of a mushroom ragout to start, a roast chicken with pomme frites for main course and chocolate mouse for dessert. Nothing striking, but everything was done well; simply a "good meal". Our waiter was very friendly, I could tell that he has worked there a very long time. All the staff was attentive and efficient. Summation: No "oooohhhs" and "aaaahhs" just "mmmm mmmm good".

Julia R.

My husband-to-be and I had searched high-and-low and in-and-out of Chicago for the right atmosphere, with the right food, for the right price, for our event. And we found it by returning to this dear spot of mine. Kiki's Bistro hosted my wedding's reception on October 9th. I've been a regular customer at Kiki's since it opened its doors 20 some years ago. We've celebrated every special event in our family there. I never envisioned hosting all my beloved friends and family in that space until I actually sat over my favorite dish (the duck), paired with my favorite Bordeaux, and considered it. Suddenly everything started to fall in to place. Its warm, welcoming feel lent itself naturally to exactly the experience I wanted to give our guests. And it's food: not your standard banquet chicken. And its wine list: fantastic! So we approached Kiki and he accepted our date and we took it from there. Kiki's only hosts special events on Sunday nights, when they'd normally be closed. And to do so, you have to give your word you'll make his minimum tab, which we knew we'd easily reach hosting 130-140 guests that night. But Kiki is an ancient Frenchman. He doesn't have an event planner or a normal routine for these sorts of things (in his words - he only opens on Sunday nights 1-2 times a year) so we literally typed up our own contract and if we needed to reach him, we drove over to see him in person. Kiki does not check his e-mail account to regularly these days. These experiences leading up to the day of the reception caused me a huge amount of anxiety. I actually had to put my groom up to the task of working with Kiki for all our needs and desires the night of. He patiently took up the challenge and did the best he could. And he did a good job because the day we got married, Kiki had the restaurant staffed and opened for us. He was waiting for our friends to decorate. The kitchen was prepared to cook our menu. And the sound system played our iPod. Mind you: I didn't actually believe any of this would be the case until the morning I was planning to get hitched. So there's that. If you're a bride willing to marry on a Sunday night, and you pick Kiki's, prepare yourself. It's quite a rollercoaster of uncertainty! But our reception was perfect. It was what we wanted. We hosted our loved ones by showing them how much we appreciated them being there. We did this through attentive service, endless pours of good wine, and delicious made-to-order meals. We left full of happiness and contentment. And we appreciate all the hard work the staff did to pull it all off for us. And to wrap this up: if you're on Yelp to find a quaint spot for dinner, where there's no scene to contend with; just a friendly waiter with a rustic French menu to share with you head out to Kiki's Bistro. Order the duck and enjoy every bite for me.

Elle M.

Good, not great. Had Christmas Eve dinner here with my family and while nobody complained, I don't think anyone raved either. The foie gras was good (hard to screw that up), but the presentation was a little lacking. The venison was fine, but not delicious. The apple tart was okay too. I do love the atmosphere though. Especially the way it was decorated for the holidays. Really homey and beautiful. I guess I was just hoping to take a bite of something and say, "Oh, God that's great." And I didn't.

Aloysius T.

I always wanted to get better acquainted with French food, but generally the cost has been a bit prohibitive. Kiki's is definitely at a good price point and the food is approachable and not snooty whatsoever. Wine by the glass: They have a huge book of French wine as you would expect from a French restaurant. Their selection of wine by the glass was considerably less (~20 wines -10 red - 10 white). I selected a fantastic 07' Rhone wine. I can go out on a limb and assume all the wines by the glass were chosen cuz they are affordable and delicious. The Rhone was exactly how I imagined a Southern Rhone would be just a little bit lighter. They have a fantastic early dinner special (5-6:30pm), which is perfect for a post work dinner, although unfortunately it brings in an expected "older" clientele. That didn't stop me from talking about all kinds of raunchy things. I think they were kinda disgusted by some of the things I was saying; but such is the audacity of youth. The pricing is fantastic at $27.50 for 3 courses. The menu options are a bit underwhelming for entrees. Steak, roasted chicken, salmon, or lamb stew. Entree: The lamb stew was perfectly tender and not too heavy. Paired very well with my wine; though maybe a heartier Bordeaux woulda been even better. The chicken was also cooked perfectly and came with an ample serving of fries. Apps: We ordered beet salad, and mussels. The mussels were fantastic. The broth buttery and rich. And the mussels themselves, soft and fresh. The beet salad was a good beet salad, but nothing to write home about. Dessert: We got the homemade ice cream/sorbet and chocolate mousse. The mousse was okay, but the ice cream and sorbet were fantastic. Never woulda thought a French place would bother to make their own ice cream Service: Was impeccably courteous and kind. Kiki is a very hospitable man. Ambience: Hmmm, i was hoping to be transformed to a Parisian bistro; but didn't quite feel it. A little Sous Le Ciel de Paris on the speakers couldn't. Overall a very pleasant experience, the early dinner special is a great deal; but i feel the real promise in this restaurant is their daily specials. Not easy to find dover sole or beef bourgogne in this city.

Aurore L.

Forget turkey, stuffing and 4th Thursday of November: what about a wine-induced nap?!?!? Dunno why - but sounds much more appealing to me.... Every year, every THIRD Thursday of November French drunkards gather all around the world (with a few of their international friends) to celebrate the Beaujolais Nouveau, New Beaujolais, kinda crappy primeur wine that we use to flood the world with just before the Holidays. It's traditionally released at midnight in France, and hilarity, bad dreams and morning-after hungover follow. This last Thursday around 1pm I was not ready yet for a glass of wine (shhh....I am being PC here....) but was desperately craving the next best thing: a strong after lunch espresso. I dragged my partner to Kiki's, asked him en français if we could have a tiny cup of joe to kick up our neurons, and settled at the bar. Witching brew swallowed in record time. Perked up for the afternoon. Merci, patron!

Michael F.

We had 4 dishes: For beginning the French onion soup and Smooth Duck Liver Paté which were ok. And for the main dishes we ordered Magret de Canard (a duck confit) and a Provencale Roast Veal Chop. The duck was pretty good, though nothing remarkable. The veal chop was way more problematic - the meat was tasteless and the crumbs crust was soaked in burnt butter. The service is very good a quick.

Khadijah L.

Cute parisian cafe tucked a little away from the noisy River North area, it's almost in Old Town. This place looks really cute with the wood floors and panels, the owners try really hard to please their patrons. Service was prompt. The food was good also, but I don't have anything particularly special to say about it. The lamb stew was good and the mussels, too. What I liked most was the dessert (lemon slice), that was pretty amazing. What I did not like about the restaurant is how surprisingly noisy it was inside. The tables were far enough apart, and the light was low and everything looks cozy, but it sounds like a hectic market, and I'm not quite sure how all the noise seems to be amplified. I looked around and on average most of the patrons here look like they were 40 or older. Definitely a lot of older guests... so it's not loud like rowdy or anything. I like the food, but it wasn't anything special. The place is cute but attracts a lot of older people. Would I come here again? Only if I were on a secretive dinner date and wanted to avoid being seen by people I know.

Trixy D.

My husbands boss recommended this place, and it is by FAR one of the nicest restaurants I have ever been to. Our Steak Frites and Bef Bourguignon were amazing. The Profiteroles (small cream puffs with ice cream inside) for dessert, French onion soup, crab cakes....everything was fabulous. The man next to us ordered their Tuesday night special, a fish, and it was AMAZING the way they removed the entire bones from the fish right there at the table. Two entrees, two appetizers, dessert, and three drinks for around $100. They had a little live quartet near the bar up front, but you could not enjoy that any further into the restaurant, which was a little disappointing. It is definitely fine dining and they are a little pretentious, but they are professional servers, and it is a Monet Induced daydream of France in the city, so we expected nothing less.

Taryn T.

Located just outside of the hustle and bustle of River North, Kiki's Bistro has a very friendly, intimate atmosphere and French food that tastes light and healthy rather than heavy on the butter. I had the poulet roti (roasted chicken) and finished with the lemon tart with raspberry sauce. The chicken was lean and not oversaturated in seasoning; the lemon tart was just enough for two people to split, though I think I'll order something with chocolate next time. Portions are meant to sate rather than stuff you. Because the lighting is dim and the vibe is quiet, this would be a fantastic date spot. Just be sure to make a reservation - this place was packed on a Monday night with what looked like a loyal clientele.

Brian P.

I had a coq a vin. It's hard to mess these things up. I believe the chicken was pretty good--they were able to achieve a certain smokiness from a proper wine deglaze. More than enough chicken to take home and eat for lunch the next day. How fun! Would love to go back--the wine was pretty great as well. wines are a big part of this restaurant as it should be--it's french. they have a little wine station in the middle of the dining room. It's in a little area that seems a little under-loved which makes this place great. I love that it's a little french outpost complete, as i believe it's a vintage citroen car rally point. it really is quite quaint. Great for: romantic dinner corporate event (if you work for a small law firm, or design shop, or something with a more casual yet professional atmosphere) friends Not great for: quick bite Ex'es seen and be seen

Rachel T.

So I have been to Kiki's a handful of times and mostly for lunch as this is a hot spot for our office. The service is impeccable and they truly adore their customers. The only problem I have when I go here is the fact I can never decide what to order! I recently ordered the escargot and it was delicious, not overly garlic- just right! Then I had the scallops, always a safe order here, they were prepared to perfection. Anything you order from there is always delicious, from the soups all the way to dessert. This would be a good date spot as not too many people (my age) know about it. They have a ton of hanging bulbs filled with tea lights that turn the dining room into quote a romantic spot. You can never lose with Kiki's.

Karen P.

My husband and I have dined at KiiKi's several times over the years and the business has truly grown. I made the reservation for eight, two months ago. I called to confirm two days before (never call during the dinner hour rush.)around 4 pm. I said it was a birthday party for my daughter's 28th birthday and she wanted French Bistro country food. We all ordered different items. The duck breast/leg confit appeared awesome and I wish I had ordered it. I ordered the filet with Bearnaise and fresh vegetables. My filet was supposed be be Medium but came charred well. My daughter's boyfriend had exactly the same problem. I had taken one bite and it was so well done and dry I could barely swallow it. When I questioned the waiter, the boyfriend also said he had the same problem. (My husband NEVER sends anything back and just said, "we will not come back".)So, hubbie was not happy with me but hey, it was my steak and was not properly prepared. But, I love this place so much and they did it right the second time for me and the BF. The waiter was very accommodating. My other daughter ordered the peppercorn steak which was really good, too. The desserts were delicious! I had the chocolate mousse, my husband ordered the creme caramel (similar to flan), my daughter ordered the blueberry bread pudding, which was so decadent! My other daughter ordered the chocolate mousse cake, which she could not finish. My 3rd daughter ordered the chocolate mousse and we both agreed we probably should have split it! My son ordered the profiteroles and said they tasted freshly made and were the best he has had. He always orders this dessert so they must be good! All in all, the service was good, the food was memorable but not outstanding, the desserts were memorable. The noise level, however, is ridiculous so intimate dining is not to be enjoyed on a weekend evening. I wanted to order Bouillabaise fish soup but the waiter said they switched it to a special and it is usually on a Thursday or Friday evening. One more note is that there is a decent wine list. We ordered a red wine from the Champagne region. It was very good but I did not see the price of the bottle. It was French, red and from that region. Had the steaks been prepared properly, the Bearnaise sauce refined, (it tasted like warm mayonnaise. Where was the tarragon flavor?), and the noise level ridiculous!, I would have given it 5 stars! We will return, maybe on a week night to savor the atmosphere, which is quite nice. Perhaps, I will call ahead and ask when they are serving Cassoullet or Bouillabaise.

Carolynne M.

Here is the breakdown of what my experience was like: AMBIANCE/ATMOSPHERE: Tucked away in a rather industrial section of North Franklin street, you walk in to a very cozy dining room with a wood beam ceiling, French Country decor, low lighting and wide plank wood floors. Decor was very well done and appropriate for the style of this restaurant. Too quiet though, some soft background music would have been nice. CLIENTELE: Maybe we were here just too early in the evening but you might want to take note if you are under 40 years old. This was Elder Haven, kids, lots of the grey-haired set here. Many of these folks gave the impression of being regulars. SERVICE: Adequate, except when I ordered the salmon entree and it came out cold in a mixed salad style, I was surprised to say the least. Then my friend Renee took a bite and said "I think you got the chicken dish instead of salmon", and so it was. The correct dish came out with little wait but I felt guilty that now the unwanted dish was going to go right in the garbage. What a waste. Drink and bread refills were continuous and there was never a wait for plates to be cleared or our waiter to appear between courses. FOOD: Hands down the best French Onion soup in Chicago. Rich, complex and loaded with cheese, my mouth is watering as I type this remembering how good it was. As good French Onion is tough to come by in this town, this was a welcome surprise. My one bite of the Chicken salad entree had cool crisp vegetables mixed with a nice, moist warm chicken. My salmon was perfectly cooked, with somewhat salty vegetables in a brown sauce. The chocolate mousse for dessert was divine - so light and fluffy and not too sweet. My only one true complaint is the restaurants logo. It really needs an update badly. Looking at the sign from the street one might almost think this was some kind of lunch room, it is very plasticky and 1980's looking. The Citroen car is a cute idea, but come on - let's swank it up people! This is a fancy French restaurant - your logo should represent that and not be a handdrawn cartoon. OK, sorry, rant over. Anyway, definitely go for the food. You wont be disappointed.

Priya S.

Great classic style French food! and a VERY cute ambience! We went there for my birthday and it was awesome! I had the salmon stew and it was delicious! I also had the beet salad and that was good as well.

Levy R.

I've only had a few drinks but it was well appointed - good service and close.

Little Miss Sunshine B.

My husband took me here to celebrate my 25th birthday. Besides being one of Oprah's favorite restaurants, it is also one of mine. The food is excellent. The service is great and it is beautifully decorated and cozy. So romantic... Cest Bon!

Stephanie H.

I dined here last night, it wasn't that busy for a Thursday night, 9:00. The service was great, very helpful. We had a great bottle of wine. Appetizers - Smoked Salmon, which was lovely and the Mushrooms, Amazing!!! Entrees - I ordered the Tuna, which tasted very 'smokey' I wouldn't recommend it (although the spinach, onion, and peppers had great flavor), the Duck was fantastic! I would go back just to order this. We had some great cheeses for dessert, and an apple tart....the caramel was great! Overall a very nice experience. I will definitely be going back.

P S.

What do you get when you spiff up a happy pair, give them a Friday night open skate and make the cuisine requisite French? You get that happy pair to Kiki's Bistro and then you let the evening take its course! Greeted warmly, we sat at the bar for a quick round before our reservation time. When it was time to sit, we were shown to a lovely, quiet and intimate corner banquette seat. Wine list opened, appetizers ordered, attire duly appreciated. The kumomoto oysters (six to an order) arrived, one order for each of us, pre-adorned with a few types of roe and a lemon in the middle. Perfectly shucked, slurped and demolished - delicious! Next up, the salads. My date's Lyonnaise (amazingly warm poached egg and bacon lardons - perfection) and my beet, or "dirt cherry" as he charmingly calls them, salad was light and had the right amount of salad-to-beet ratio. Bottle of delectable red ordered, happily taking in the warmth of the room and each other, we anticipated our entrees. Our mains were, as predicted by a neighboring table, things we would dream of in the coming days. My duck was cooked to perfection and accompanied by a savory en glaze, slightly overcooked string beans (which I ate anyway, happily), a fantastic rice pilaf and rich, sweet stewed red cabbage. My date's lamb chops were excellently cooked and succulent however he was a little let down by the pedestrian mashed potatoes. Our sides of mushrooms (at least a few different types, buttery and meaty) and sauteed spinach rounded everything out fully. As we waited on desserts of creme caramel and a lemon tart, a patron intercepted Kiki himself on his way around the room, congratulating the restaurant on 40 years and mentioning that he and his wife had been dining there for 17 of them. My heart was warmed, what an ideal sign that they do things right. Yes, the crowd is an older one and it's not crazy lively or bumping even on a Saturday night, but it was a perfect place in time.

Steve M.

This place is fantastic! From the vintage Citroen fleet parked out front to the fun crowd watching to the amazing wine list to the even more amazing FOOD! I had escargot, and steak frites which were RIDIC! The escargot came in a classic escargot bowl/dish with garlic and parsley. The steak frites were simple, but so so so delicious. Often times, I find that the simple, well executed meal is way more satisfying than the confused, "trying to be innovative" meal that tries too hard. Don't get me wrong -- there's definitely room (in my belly!) for innovation. It's just that Kiki's brings it all home to Chicago with style and deliciousness on a 5-star level. Oui!

T M.

Im surprised I have not reviewed Kiki's before. I have dined here a lot. My wife and I celebrated Valentines, and once again Kiki's did a wonderful job. The service from the free valet, coat check, hostess, bartender, waiter, etc was as usual seamless and top notch. This restaurant makes you feel like part of the family. Kiki always says hi and is intensely involved. Wether you go for a nice lunch, romantic dinner, or one of the celebrations they have you will not be disappointed! We enjoyed an elegant oyster and caviar appetizer, cassoulet, and veal chop entree's all superb. They had a harpist also last night that was a nice touch. The wine list is also very nice with a great by the glass selection. Thanks for all the memories Kiki's!

Andrea K.

After my beloved Brasserie Jo closed, I have been searching for a Frech bistro to replace it. I made the trip from the suburbs to try Kiki's Saturday night after reading positive reviews on Yelp. I like the decor of the restaurant, it is cozy with the overhead lamps. We had reservations at 7:30 and showed up on time. There were several tables open on our arrival but for some unknown reason we had to wait several minutes to be seated in one of the empty tables even though there were three hostesses. It was a little odd but, OK. We were seated in the front corner which was a nice location. So far so good. We decided to try the frog leg appetizer in a white wine sauce which was highlighted on the menu. Bad choice. The sauce was so loaded with so much garlic it was indelible, and the texture of the legs were rubbery. Not sure how fresh they were. We were disappointed at this point but still looking forward to the entrees hoping that Kiki's would redeem itself. My boyfriend ordered the Mardi Gras jambalaya and I ordered the coq au vin. The jambalaya was not authentic and was average to bland - he thought it tasted like it came from a can. My coq au vin was better. The chicken was tender but the dish was a little on the bland side. It needed more of the bacon/lardon flavor. So we moved on to desserts. The lemon tart I had was very good, and suggest if you go there. The profiteroles were just Ok. The chocolate sauce was underwhelming. I am glad we tried Kiki's but will not be going back. My search for the city's best coq au vin will have to go on.

Sara F.

So I absolutely LOVED the atmosphere here. It feels like you step right into a little Paris bistro. I wanted to absolutely fall in love with this place, but there were a few kinks. Our waiter was super friendly, but really slow. There is something to lingering over a long dinner talking and drinking late into the night, but I just wanted him to be a little more attentive. My escargot was absolutely delicious, but it came out SO hot that I couldn't eat it for about 10 minutes. My parents really enjoyed their food (dad got the calf's liver and mom got some chicken dish), and my boyfriend RAVED about the duck, but my dish left a lot to be desired. I got the steak pommes frites, and my steak was SO TOUGH and chewy. The pommes frites were salty and delicious, but I could barely cut through that meat! It was very unpleasant eating it. I wouldn't be upset if someone told me we were going here again, because it's clear that I just ordered the wrong thing; however, I am not in a rush to get back.

Ivan M.

France is an amazing food country and French bistros can easily be the best bang for the buck you get. Great food at affordable prices could also be Kiki's slogan. The place is not particularly hip, you may almost say outdated, and you should not expect to find a 20-40 year old crowd here either. But it's a solid French kitchen with attentive service and it does not disappoint at all. I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for a French bistro in Northern Chicago

Angela K.

Steak au Poivre was great. I also tasted the veal ribs with pineapples which fell off the bones. The fours of us each ordered a dessert and shared. The Mousse au Chocolat was very fluffy but rich and the Tarte aux Pommes was voted the best. The service was great too!

Carol K.

Kiki's has been on my "must try" list ever since I found out that they had my favorite beer Kronenbourg 1664. So on a recent, blustery, Winter night, I finally had my chance. They seated us at a little table squeezed into the corner at the back of the room which was perfect as it gave me a chance to look around. Whoever had said that it has a loyal clientele wasn't kidding. This place was full on a Thursday night with the royalty of the Gold Coast- all primped and ready for a night out. There were only three tables of people under 60 in the whole place! The food was delicious. We started with the scallops (delicious) and the shrimp with some kind of sauce that was perfect for soaking up in the bread that they provided. As for our entrees- we ordered a variety of things to split. The cheese plate, the steak au poivre, french onion soup and some kind of potato. All were delicious. The cheese plate came with balsamic vinegar, walnuts, brie, goat's cheese and some other unidentifiable cheese that were all amazingly good. See man can live by "cheese" alone! There were a couple of hiccups in service during the evening which is what kept this from being a 5 star experience. The other crazy thing that happened was actually pretty funny. When we put our credit card into the check folder, the waiter was in such a hurry that when he spun around, the card must have been thrown from the holder and went sailing across the restaurant and he couldn't find it. It was like a bit from an old comedy with everyone looking under their tables and finally an older woman with two tone hair held it up and proudly proclaimed "I found it!". Certainly made for an interesting end to our evening. And who said French food is stuffy?

Jerry B.

This is a very delinquent review, but I wanted to add to my list of romatic/cheap restaurants. It was very nice, romantic place. Food was good, but not real exciting. Service was excellent. Not cheap, but more moderate. On the return list.

Bob D.

I was told to love French food, I was taught by French people, that French food is the highest culinary achievement. Well I don't really believe any one style of cuisine reigns supreme. I have had plenty of French food that bored me into anxiety fits. Pretentious service that made the backs of my legs sweat, but yet having never had the pleasure of the French countryside I new I just hadn't been to the right places. Thursday night, I kept sharing and kept eating. Escargots Frogs legs. Potato and leek soup Mussels cooked in Bougelais Nouvea Mussels cooked in something else Steak frites Trout on Crab Magrette de Canard [duck] Salmon Lamb Stew Chocolate mouse Creme brulee Apple tart All this food, every bit of it was superior, from ingredient selection to cooking methods used. The meals were balanced, with large portions, free of any pretense, and no gimmicks. Exactly what you should expect in a Bistro. Service was a perfect balance of the server being there every time you needed something, and not being seen otherwise, no sly comments, not winking, and certainly no apologies. This is not a place to take a first date, unless you have met someone of pure awesomeness. This is a place to let great wines roll around your mouth without anyone thinking you are pompous. This is a place where you will not be rushed, you can dine at your leisure. This is also a place that doesn't stick it to you just because you have good tastes. Try the three course for $27! Kiki's I shall return!

Edward W.

Kiki the owner is the best. Great atmosphere. Food excellent.

Christine M.

Kiki's is absolutely my favorite type of dining experience -- classic, simple exquisitely prepared faire in a classic style restaurant. I went for an early Friday dinner and was really amazed that the ower was actually there and sat us to our table. This set the evening off on the right foot and only got better as it went on! We were lucky to get a corner table that was away from the hustle and bustle of the other areas. If you're looking for a quieter dining experience, go earlier as the noise levels seem to rise as the evening goes on. Wine by-the-glass is top notch but not belt breaking. Recommend reservations as well. Started with the Foie Gras which was absolutely amazing (sorry duck lovers!) and I'm glad that's not illegal anymore, haha! Then, went on to the Steak au Poivre which was tender and an excellently prepared pepper sauce -- they didn't hold pack on drowning it in it either. Finished off with Berries and Cream (special request) to end the night. They seemed to have a fair mix of groups of friends, married couples, dates, groups of girlfriends, etc. so it doesn't seem like you can pin it to one type of crowd. Either way, wonderful dining experience and would go back in a heartbeat.

Victoria S.

this is an old timey french place - like they don't have too many of anymore- a classic menu with classic bistro/brasserie dishes and well executed. location is sort of out of the way - off michigan ave but the place is worth seeking out if you want sole meuniere or steak frites or a good french onion soup to take the winter chill off your bones...

Marnie R.

Had such an enjoyable experience at Kiki's Bistro. The food was delish especially the steak frites. The service was great and the atmosphere was romantic. I will definitely be back.

Stacy T.

A perfectly romantic setting for an indulgent French dinner. The candlelit orbs hanging from the ceiling and the rustic Provencal decor sets the tone for a quiet and delicious evening. The service was impeccable, food exquisite, and overall experience was delightful. The mussels were plump, juicy, and flavorful morsels from the sea, the Poulet Roti was cooked to perfection, and the steak and fries were deeply rich and satisfying. Wine list is more than adequate and they serve a mean martini! I love this place and would go there as often as I could!

Beth J.

This was my first visit to Kiki's Bistro and I am definitely a fan! My boyfriend and I are both lovers of French food so we decided to give this place a go. We were both quite hungry so ordered the duck liver pate as a starter which was so good. I then ordered the Norwegian salmon and he ordered the classic steak frites. We both really enjoyed our dinner quite a lot. The bottle of red wine that was suggested to us by our wonderful server was so good that it didn't last long. Our dinner was capped off with a creamy chocolate mousse. I will be recommending this place to all our friends! We will definitely be back.

Kiki's is absolutely my favorite type of dining experience -- classic, simple exquisitely prepared faire in a classic style restaurant. I went for an early Friday dinner and was really amazed that the ower was actually there and sat us to our table. This set the evening off on the right foot and only got better as it went on! We were lucky to get a corner table that was away from the hustle and bustle of the other areas. If you're looking for a quieter dining experience, go earlier as the noise levels seem to rise as the evening goes on. Wine by-the-glass is top notch but not belt breaking. Recommend reservations as well. Started with the Foie Gras which was absolutely amazing (sorry duck lovers!) and I'm glad that's not illegal anymore, haha! Then, went on to the Steak au Poivre which was tender and an excellently prepared pepper sauce -- they didn't hold pack on drowning it in it either. Finished off with Berries and Cream (special request) to end the night. They seemed to have a fair mix of groups of friends, married couples, dates, groups of girlfriends, etc. so it doesn't seem like you can pin it to one type of crowd. Either way, wonderful dining experience and would go back in a heartbeat.

Josh P.

Ok so I don't know from French food but this food is awesome! Been there three times and it just refuses to disappoint. the service is awesome and as someone else said "approachable." The ambiance is mildly romantic but not intimidating at all. Wine selection is great and I am now a fan of Cassoulet. The bar is a fine place to wait for your table and the crowd is a nice mix if not a tad on the older side...did not see many 20 somethings.

Brittany M.

Came here at 8:00 pm on a Thursday (apparently after all the old people had gone to bed). The food was delicious - terrine of foie gras was excellent and my pork tenderloin was perfectly cooked. I don't even want to think about how much cream was in the sauce but it was goood. Escargots were also tasty, but my friend's steak was undercooked - quel dommage! But it came with like a pound of those deliciously crisp frites, so that made up for it. You get the vibe that this place is for the older folks, but I wouldn't let that discourage you from trying it out. Also, don't mind the pink tablecloths (white ones would take 10 years off this place!). Kiki's is a good choice for casual French dining.

Marie B.

A lovely dining experience! Even during the Valentine's weekend!! The service was quite good. We were seated immediately. The wine list quite good. The space was fun and whimsically decorated. The menu, true to French cuisine...and yet,still "fun". The food was quite good. I had the grilled peach salad - yum. Baked tenderloin ....with the requisite mashed potatoes -- double yum. My dearest had the Lamb Brochettes...which looked quite good. He also tried the Frog Legs and pronounced them "tres bon"! The only minor disappointment was the desert. I ordered the "warm chocolate cake", but the cake was not warm and was not particularly chococatey in taste. Not "bad"....just "average". After the scrumptuous dinner, I really expected something over the top divine. Dessert withstanding, this is definitely a place a wonderful "date" spot. Quiet, but not too. Romantic little seating areas...just dark enough to make you look glam, but not so much you have to question what you are eating. Extremely attentive waitstaff, but not intrusive.

Jane K.

This place is great! When I think delicious, unpretentious, affordable French cuisine, I think Kiki's. I even had my birthday party here last year with about ten friends. The problem is, it's not a great place for parties because the waitstaff is unfriendly. Flat out, unfriendly. I understand it's hard to find friendly waitstaff, especially at an establishment like this where it seems the crowd is way older and regular but they were just flat out rude. I will probably go back but not as often as I would if the staff were nicer. Lamb stew rocks my world when it's cold out. Their pomme frites are very French and escargot is always good. Drink wise, red and white lillets are delish!

Eric B.

Kiki's is one of my favorite bistros in the city. I've been here over 10 times, yet I can't believe I haven't been here more. I consider Kiki's and La Sardine to be the two most consistent bistros in the City. Even though the restaurant is in an old loft building, it feels like a classic bistro because Kiki has spent a lot of time in the interior design -- inserting wood beams to hide the exposed pipes in the ceilings, and installing a bar heavily laden with wood, reminding you of French country restaurants. It is a lovely setting. I've eaten here so many times that I'm not going to recount a particular meal, but rather identify highlights for the courses: Appetizers: The go-to here is without a doubt the Duck Ravioli -- three large pieces served in duck broth. Unbelievably flavorful. Between the duck ravs here and the duck tortellini at Rose Angeli's, is there anything they CAN'T do with duck? If tragedy befalls and they are out of the Duck (this has happened to me), the frog legs and juicy and served in a creamy sauce. A very different flavor profile, but delicious nonetheless. Entrees: Its hard to recall all the good dinner entrees I've had, but what stands out to me is the rack of lamb -- the best rack of lamb I've ever had in a restaurant, and as good as the stuff I roast at home. Highly recommended. This summer they had, as a Wednesday night special, venison sirloin with spaetzle. It was delicious; try it if it is still there. If not, the Navarin d'Agneau - lamb stew - is smoky and filling. Furthermore, they have duck two ways - breast and leg confit - the hallmark of any bistrot worth its title. For desserts, as much as we like creme brulee and souffle, we always end up going for the profiteroles, and we are never disappointed. The mousse is superb, though, as well, right up there with Le Bouchon's. The wine list is extensive and has selections at all price points. If you are looking to splurge, go for the Cote Rotie.

Shannon W.

Went here for my birthday dinner. Food was EXCELLENT! I would definitely recommend and go here again. It's a bit of an older crowd, not a very hip scene, but the food made it worth it.

Pontip M.

My friend and I were easily among the youngest people there by a good 20+ years. That's not a here nor there as far as stars are concerned but this it's a place my friends would come back to for a fun night out. I am nearly 90% sure the duck pate wasnt even made in-house which was dissapointing. I love love love duck pate and this tasted a little like the fridge. I will however say the steak part of my Steak Frites was FANTASTIC! So that was the high point. But out of 4 courses it's just not enough to get me back in there.

m h.

Dined in this establishment one weekend with a group of ladies. Our reservations were arranged by a very helpful concierge at a high luxury hotel in which we stayed for the weekend. Unlike our hotel experience which was fantastic, our experience at Kiki's was reprehensible at best. We had prearranged to partake in the prefixe menu, which we were well aware that our orders needed to be in promptly by 6:30pm. We struggled to get menus for our table on time, having to call the server over and actually ask for them. He handed the stack of menus to one of our guests and instructed her to hand them out to the rest of us. The reservation was noted so why they did not cooperate with us is unknown. By the time we flagged our server down again to give menu orders it was 6:32pm and they refused to give us the prefixe menu that we requested. The server argued with us and was extremely unprofessional, hostile and defensive. We asked to speak to a manager and an older gentleman (owner possibly) who never introduced himself. He quickly reprimanded us, made no eye contact and refused our request without allowing us to explain our circumstances and promptly walked away. His restaurant was full and bustling so he clearly did not see the value in accommodating our one table. We should have walked out, our fault. At the end of our mediocre meal, we asked the server to help us find something of value to one of our guests that had fallen on the floor. He shouted an obscenity (using the word p***y) that was so upsetting that we paid and left promptly. We were outraged and insulted. This restaurant experience was a clear lesson in what NOT to do in the hospitality business. It was so wrong on so many levels. I will never go back and will tell everyone I know about this very unfortunate experience.

Kelly S.

I just didn't get that 'wow' feeling here. It's not that the food was bad. It was good, not great. Roasted Chicken Salad Belgian Endive, Tomatoes, Green Beans, Green Apple, Walnut, Mustard Dressing I hate when my salad is over-dressed. This one was perfectly dressed. Looking quite spiffy, really. ;) After we paid the bill, two large dishes of chocolate mousse, whip cream, and strawberries arrived. On the house. Happy Friday! I enjoyed the atmosphere here and think that it is probably very romantic at night. I definitely want to re-visit and order something other than a salad.

Johnny R.

I've been to Kiki's a number of times, since my office was located two blocks away. It's the perfect restaurant for a lunch meeting. While I've sampled pretty much every entree in their regular rotation, I've tended to stay with steak and pomme frites. I've never really had a bad meal there, but I've never really had a memorable meal there either. I don't have much else to add, except that it's not too loud in there, and it's easy to talk.

Bridget L.

I loved the vibe in Kiki's. Very traditional French Bistro. The crowd is a bit on the older side, but personally, I don't mind such a crowd at all. I always feel like older people know more than me about quality, so where they go, I will follow (and I'm not talking about certain "God's Waiting Room" buffets.) The food at Kiki's is classic French, and the portions are perfect: not too big, not too small. I had the veal special and it was very good. We also tried some of their standards - frog legs ("Little Chicken" - thanks MD!); onion soup (Wow), and steak frites. Everything was delish. The wine list was fairly extensive too. Check it out.

Mike L.

Went there for a Birthday party on Saturday 9-9 and they sat us right next to the kitchen - it was hot outside for October standards, and it was even hotter sitting next to the kitchen inside. Our seats were too close to a 10 topper behind us and the birthday boy was hit at least 4 times by the rude bus and wait staff - the ambiance is nice, love the Monet style painting on North wall, the rich wood floors, and the lighting etc. The food was excellent but the waiters and busboys need to take a course in how to treat others the way they would like to be treated. We know they are under pressure to get the stuff out and keep the rich people happy, and we know it's a thankless job, but so is mine, so try a smile at least, and try saying EXCUSE ME after you squeeze behind someone and hit their back and push them against their table - 4 times. And I will never understand why restaurants purchase such large round and square china plates to serve their fare - especially on tables that are meant to be in a dollhouse - you may think it's stylish and intimate, but it's really irritating and almost always causes someone to spill something, and 2 people at our table did. And a spacial note to waiters - when a party orders a $200 bottle of Champagne and then a $160 bottle of wine, please don't poor the beverage in the glasses so fast that more ends up on the paper table cloth protector than the glass! Just a suggestion. But, I came for the food and the food was excellent! I had the the Coq Au Vin - we had the following appetizers; Smoked Salmon and I believe goat cheese, Beet Salad, another salad with bacon and an egg in the center - I would pass on the latter next time because I am not a huge fan of bacon unless it's on a BLT, and finally some sauteed Mushrooms in a wine sauce - EVERYTHING was excellent! We opted to go to MK's across the street for dessert and more Champagne - now THAT WAS AWESOME!

Susan B.

So laughably bad. Seafood was not fresh. Neither the mussels as an appetizer nor the "special"--bouillabaisse. Even the dessert was bad. And I'll eat pretty much anything involving chocolate and butter or cream. The saving grace? Either the bread and butter or watching the old folks gum their fancy dinners. Good for comic relief but not for enjoyable food.

Eduardo P.

Great food, great ambiance, good attitudes! I love Kiki's smooth and comfortable ambiance which is greatly accompanied by their smooth staff. Very goof French cuisine that is reasonably priced. We never had a bad meal here. Eduardo

Mark G.

You have to love the atmosphere in this beautifully lit and decorated restaurant. Service couldn't be better and there specials are all that you would expect from a French restaurant. Unfortunately, the chef has decided to use no salt at all. There is a salt shaker on the table and even my wife that never adds salt to anything found that in order to find the familiar French flavors that salt was required. Very romantic and great service are reasons why it has lasted for so long.

Mike G.

I can't believe that last night was the first time that I tried Kiki's Bistro with my wife and another couple. What a refreshing place to dine even though it has been around forever and makes me wonder why we haven't tried it before after living in Chicago for 30 years. Warmly greeted and despite a sizable Saturday night crowd were promptly seated. The restaurant has just the right atmosphere for a bistro-warm, friendly and inviting. Kiki's strikes me like a pair of old and very comfortable shoes. It seems like others dining at Kiki's were similarly disposed-they were greeted like long time regulars. The food was classic bistro and it is apparent that Kiki's stays true to form. Many of the newer Chicago French bistros could learn a great deal by taking a closer look at Kiki's. Ordered the beet and house salad and the ingredients were fresh and attractively arranged. We had the steak pomes frites and the the poulet roti. The food was perfectly prepared and served on heated plates. The chicken was seasoned just right with a hint of sweet and savory. The steak was great. Dessert was shared among the four of us-apple tart with cinnamon ice cream and caramel sauce-so delicious. In summary, a restaurant that I would be happy to place on my regular rotation list and sure that we will be recognized as regulars before we know it. A lovely restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and staff who are happy that you chose Kiki's for your dinner. I sure hate to repeat myself, but we continue to be impressed by the many fine dining options that broaden our experience beyond the Hole-in-the-Wall.

Eric M.

We found Kiki's Bistro by a quick online search. We had a friend in town for a last minute trip and wanted a causual atmosphere with good food. We enjoy French Bistro food so we thought we would give it a try. Upon arrival, I was a little taken aback by the logo and bright red awnings. I agree with another post who recommended an update. I would agree that the outside appearance does not give you the impression of what you will experience when you are inside... The atmosphere is one of an old French Country Manor. The waitstaff was very attentive and not too intrusive. Our waiter was there when you needed him without overpowering your evening and interrupting conversation. This isn't a place that a lot of hip young Chicagoan's frequent, however they really should try it. There was an older crowd and families dining with older children. Many seemed to be regulars. The food was in a few words, authentic, high quality, with a nice presentation. One of the only things different from a bistro you might frequent in Paris is the portion sizes. They definitely are American sized portions so bring an appetit. The french onion soup was a perfect starter for this cool September evening. The best french onion soup I have had for a long time. I had the tenderloin of beef with a wonderful bernaise sauce. I ordered it medium rare and it was presented perfectly. The potato gratin was very tradional and a perfect side. The sauteed spinich, which is always a favorite was perfection. Not overcooked and seasoned well. I had the creme brulee for dessert and again it did not disappoint. The dessert portions are extremely large so be prepared. Overall, this was a solid dining experinece. The prices are reasonable for high quality French fair. Our overall consensus was that Kiki's Bistro was a pleasent surprise that surpassed our initial expectations. We will be back.

Lauren H.

I had been wanting to try Kiki's for years and got a restaurant.com gift cert, so it was time to try it out. We came on a Wed night and were surprised, it was fully packed and louder than we expected. As it wasn't a romantic date or anything, no bother. We both started with the French onion soup, which was good (but I must admit I have had better). We then shared a beet salad with walnuts and a hazelnut vinaigrette. I couldn't really taste the dressing, but the salad was tasty and they were kind enough to split it for us. My dinner partner had the salmon served with a potato cake and veggies and she seemed to enjoy it. I had the pork tenderloin with vegetables and polenta and it was very tasty, and such a generous portion I could not even eat half (it will be a good lunch tomorrow!). We shared the chocolate mousse which was very light and rich, but I prefer a darker chocolate (just a personal preference), and I wished the whipped cream was a tad sweeter. Service was good. My glass of champagne was also pretty reasonably priced. I would go back, plenty of other menu items I would like to try.

Curt L.

We were able to secure a 6:00 reservation on a Saturday night on very short notice, which made me wonder if the restaurant was as popular as Yelpers suggest. We were pleasantly surprised as the room filled up quickly just after 6. We very much enjoyed our meal, which we felt was a bargain as we ordered from the early dining menu--three courses for $27.50. The room itself is quite delightful -- the clear glass globes with candles in them suspended from the ceiling are everywhere, and with the dark wood floors and overall decor, Kiki's is a romantic attractive room. I ordered the onion soup as a fourth course. It was very good. I thought the stock could have had more body to it, but overall I enjoyed it given the tasty Gruyere cheese on top. Salads were small-ish portions but not tiny, a nice way to whet the appetite. The beet salad with hazelnut vinaigrette excellent. The greens were clearly quite fresh and the dressings really flavorful. The roast chicken was tender and well-seasoned -- best I've had anywhere and though this simple dish is a favorite of mine, in many places it comes out dry and overcooked. Not so at Kik's. My wife had the salmon, also delicious. For dessert, homemade caramel ice cream was especially good, and chocolate mousse was superb. Our server was helpful and attentive, but we in no way felt rushed. Made a special point of coming over to our table to wish us "Bon Appetit" after the runners brought our entrees. He also tidied up our table top each time he came by. It was cute. Lots of groups of 6-8 were celebrating various occasions. The room has a very relaxed tone to it, and the menu is straightforward and unpretentious, always welcome in a French restaurant. Yet everyone was nicely dressed and clearly into some good food. I thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Kiki's and strongly recommend it.

Xtina B.

Best French food I have ever had :) So authentic and the owner was so sweet! He came and chatted with us at our table. Our server was very knowledgeable and had some great suggestions. The food and the service were both fantastic!!!

Sonja S.

My dear friend Auntie Fab is a Franco-file - so duh, she wanted French food for her Birthday dinner. Another dear friend (let's call him Sir Ralf) Selected Kiki's Bistro as the sight of her celebration. I confess, I was skeptical - the Citroen Car logo bit threw me... I clomped down the street toward Kiki's will all the enthusiasm of my 14 year old nephew going for a hair cut. But then , through the gloom of a wintry Chicago night, I saw the warm glow emanating from the cozy interior of Kiki's and I was intrigued. Stepping inside I was surprised and delighted at the rustic, charming and warm interior which instantly transported me to the last time I had been in Paris. Now before I go into the food , let me first say, I can't remember the name of our waiter and its a terrible shame. I love professional servers, the kind one generally finds in Europe and rarely finds here in the States (except for in certain Italian Chop Houses) I worship those Waiters who know how to seamlessly guide ones meal with deference and wit, providing suggestions and applauding good choices, moving the meal along without rushing. Ahhhhh, its wonderful to absorb the tender ministrations of a Waiter who would never plop down on one knee to take your order or write his name backwards on a table cloth. He was a Prince and shame on me that I didn't write his name on my arm or something. Now for the food - it was a traditional French/ European style menu and it took us forever to select even the appetizers. We each ordered one intending to share. But when the glorious Kumamoto oysters, tender sauteed Frog legs and Duck Pate and Provencal Tart came to the table, no one wanted to share and we each gobbled up our own dishes in short order. The Kumamoto's were spectacular, briny and sweet at the same time, perfectly bathed in a mignonette and a dot of of caviar. YUM. We ordered the Veal chop, the duck ( happy me!) the steak pomme frites etc. I cannot speak for my dining companions, but OMG the duck was a vision, the angels came down from the sky and hummed three bars of Amazing Grace. WOW. The duck breast was served medium, there was a comfit duck leg that was so tender it literally melted, wild rice ( not Uncle Ben's REAL WILD RICE) braised red cabbage, green beans still crisp. Oh I could giggle like a school girl just thinking about it. It was so good that my companions fell upon it the minute I looked like my appetite was flagging and the plate went back with one solitary leg bone. We were ALL members of the clean plate club that night. We finished out meal with very traditional, well constructed deserts and Grand Marnier, oh a coffee. Suffice it to say that Auntie Fab's Birthday turned out to be a memorable occasion for all of us and me? I will be clomping back up the street to Kiki's on a regular basis!

Matthew L.

Food was delicious and fresh and perhaps some of the history was lost on me. Portions and pricing were much more reasonable than expected. Worth a trip if you're looking for a traditional meal, but it's not exactly where I would go for a special occasion. Wouldn't say no if I was invited to go, but I can take it or leave it.

Michael P.

Kiki's Bistro has been at it's current address since the early 90's. Prior to that, he had a restaurant in the Loop which was a hidden little gem below street level (Le Bordeux on Madison). Kiki knows how to run a restaurant. This is an adult restaurant. No techno music. No trainee, temporary while I am studying to be an actor/musician/lawyer waitstaff. No culinary experiments with the name of "fusion". No waitstaff singing for your birthday either. At Kiki's you get good, solid, traditional, French bistro dishes prepared the way you would expect. Now... can that be boring to some? Sure. To them I say, Chicago is filled with the Eatery du Jour that is hot for the moment and I suggest you go there for the total doofus experience before they close next month. If you are over 21, come to Kiki's for the food and the professional service. Kiki himself will be there to seat you. I have read some complaints about the age of the patrons. Well, I happen to think that the old money knows where to go and what to spend it on. Since I have several grey hairs, I fit in nicely and pretend to be old money! Keep in mind kiddies, when you get to be grey, I don't think you will still be hanging out at Japonais - you will get a headache from all the energy. As to complaints about the food. Well, while dining in a well respected, establishment, if you are dumb enough to pay a good buck for food that you don't feel was prepared properly without telling your waiter....(and you are dumb enough to write about it later) you will never be old money. All kitchens make mistakes and if you ever wish to make it as a seasoned, restaurant aficionado you need to let them know when something is not right - good restaurants will make it right. Regarding price, the fact is, most chain steakhouses charge more for a hunk of meat a la carte than does Kiki on a good variety of near complete meals on his menu. If you are in the mood, feel free to run up the bill. The wine list is extensive and there are specials as well. As in any upscale restaurant, don't expect to find a discounted, "expensive" bottle of wine. Kiki's is not the place to come to get loaded. If you need more than two glasses of wine with dinner, stop at your local gin mill on the way home and then call for reservations at Betty Ford. You may have a problem. Bottom line - Old School restaurant experience. Good for special occasions or for a nice escape from the day-to-day. Generally a mature, regular crowd with more of a mix at special events. Professional wait staff. "Bistro Favorites" (as classified on the menu) are my go-to choice. Daily specials add an interesting change. Duck Ravioli, the Veal Chop, Coq a Vin, Rack of Lamb, are wonderful. Deserts are generally simple but outstanding - the usual standards, creme brulee, chocolate mousse and some surprises. Free valet. Dress runs from business casual to nice jeans and a sweater. Skip Starbucks for a week, put on a sportcoat, get your wife or significant Other to dress-it up a little as well, and live large. Stoggy can be fun. Go and pretend you are Thurston Howell, III. - (Google it - if your a twentysomething.)

Kyle C.

Where I go for a fancier lunch in River North Kiki's bistro is a little bit of Paris, right here in Chicago. Stepping through the doors you feel like you are transported from River North to a more sophisticated oasis. Sometimes you just need a change from the quick and sloppy diner options nearby. I've had a couple of really nice business meetings here, and the atmosphere has been perfect for them - a place that you can actually have a conversation without trying to shout over music and crowds. The service is exceptional and as another reviewer stated, unpretentious. The meal is delivered in a timely fashion that doesn't leave you waiting but doesn't seem rushed. I usually opt for the fish or pasta du juor, but one visit I tried their chicken special for that day (I wish I could remember the name) and it was absolutely outstanding. As appealing as their whole dessert menu is, I can force myself to order nothing but the Crème brûlée with a layer of chocolate on the bottom, piled with fresh berries. A layer of CHOCOLATE? All other Crème brûlée is ruined for me now. Thank you very much Kiki!

Ashley B.

Kiki's is a revelation. It is a shame we hadn't been there before! My husband and I have been exploring the world of French food quite a bit since we got Le Crueset cook wear off our registry...and we've fallen in love, this time with French cuisine. And Kiki's is perfect. The atmosphere is beautiful, whimsical and elegant and perfect for a date night. First off: the french onion soup is perfect. The gruyere is incredibly flavorful. It's slightly better than that at Bistro Zinc, which had been our favorite until tonight. Then, the venison chop. Shut up. Perfect. After we had our first bite, we stopped talking and ate slowly and in silence out of reverence for the sacred deliciousness. The sweet fig sauce and the walnut puree melded richly with the perfectly cooked, tender meat. Finally, the creme brûlée. I had never enjoyed this particular dessert, but it's my dear husband's favorite so we indulged. And now I understand, so clearly, his deep love for the burnt sugar amazingness. A few tips: don't dress like a trixie. The crowd here is elegant and no one is trying to impress anyone else. Think cashmere sweater and jeans. Perhaps it's the first evening out in Chicago for a long time where I did not see a single female (or male I guess) in tights or jeggings.

Rachel W.

If you work in River North, you must do lunch at Kiki's. The food is incredible (today I had diver scallops with asparagus and whipped potatoes- perfection!) and the size/ variety of their lunch menu is incredible. Their daily omelet, salad, soup, and fish specials are the real stars. And I have a theory the waitstaff is psychic. No seriously. Like creepy pod people from another planet, all armed with ESP and the ability to hear our thoughts. Whether or not you make reservations, they anticipate if there are still more to arrive for your party. They swoop in during conversation lulls (not during highly engaged dialog) to take orders. They appear the moment you've finished to take your plate. And they can sense if/when you need to get back to the office and make sure you get your bill quickly. Kiki (the owner) and Violet (the hostess) are both friendly and extremely professional. A great spot for a business- or fun- lunch!

Jackie S.

Very nice place for a special occasion. Solid French fare (highly recommend the short-ribs), very attentive service, and extensive, relatively well-priced wine list of mostly French varietals. I will definitely be back.

Jim W.

It's hard for me to write a review when I think one thing screwed up my experience. Ok, well one and a glaring observation. I'm not really one to make fun of people for their age, but it was really REALLY noticeable! I'm sure most of these fine clientele have excellent tastes, but at 930p on a Fri night, wasn't it past the geriatric society's bedtime? It was sort of cute but similar to Carolyn S, I felt like it was at bingo night at the managed care facility. Hard to top Hugh B's "The average age of the clientele is deceased" though. I came to Kiki's at the recommendation of a friend...this was one time I didn't do my homework and read the yelp reviews, so I brought a date. The venue itself is nice enough, gives the feeling of rustic French countryside, maybe near the Seine. Service was good, from seating us (we didn't mention that we were 45 min late for our reservation) to the wait staff and water, wine suggestions, and very important to me, being thanked and said goodnight to as we left, by Kiki himself. The food left something to be desired though. While the escargot were excellent, the beef tenderloin, while tender was just not that flavorful. Worse, the mussels were below average and not only made my stomach queasy a few hours later, but gave my girlfriend food poisoning and induced vomiting. I'd like to give Kiki's a better shake given that I liked the service and its homely nature, but it's hard to justify going back.

Daniel R.

It's not like I'm going to be wearing any berets or anything, but sometimes it's a good thing to get a little Frenchy. I mean, they've given us SO much: french fries, french toast, french kissing (oo la la)! Anyway, it was my mother's birthday and it coincided with the special Yelp promotional menu, so I gave it a shot. BTW: the promotional menu is eerily similar to the early dinner menu they normally have. You can get that from 5 to 630PM and it's only $25 for 3 courses. The food was pretty good. I had the mussels and they were some of the best I've had. My mother had the mushroom fricassee and it was frican-awesome. We both had steak pomme frites. Mine was a bit overdone, I think, but it was good and HUGE. The frites made the meal (as did the giant pat of compound butter). We split the chocolate mousse and lemon tart. It was as expected. Nothing too spectacular. BUT, if you want simple food done well (or well done, if you're having the steak) eat at Kiki's.

Jennifer S.

This was one of the worst meals we have had in Chicago. The glass of french wine I ordered was super sweet, the duck was fatty, the sauces on both our dishes were so salty and poorly constructed. I maybe got through three bites of my salmon- and should have sent it back. We were hoping that dessert would salvage the meal- but a blueberry muffin soaked in syrup doesn't pass for bread pudding. Honestly, I have had better meals on an airplane- and I am not talking business class. I just cannot understand the good reviews this place has.

Ken K.

Wife wanted to try some Coq Au Vin, something she'd always heard about but never tried. This was our 2nd time dining at Kiki's, we enjoyed our first visit as my wife raved about their roasted chicken and apple tart dessert. We ordered mussels, french onion soup, coq au vin, steak frites, blueberry bread pudding, lemon tart and apple tart. My wife insisted we get the apple tart again to round out the 2 desserts from the prix fixe menu. Mussels were pretty good, the broth was nice to eat with the french bread. My wife's french onion soup was pretty bland, the onions didn't have that deep carmelized color which resulted in a rather bland taste in the soup. Coq au vin was ok, but my wife said she would've rather ordered the roast chicken dish. My steak frites was not very good, the meat was way way too thin, i ordered it medium rare, but the meat cut was so thin, there's no way to cook a piece of meat like that anyway except for at best medium well to well done. Also, meat was so thin, there was no chance to get any carmelization or crust on the meat. Very very disappointed in this dish. The frites were great though, i was surprised i would like shoestring cut potatoes. On to dessert, lemon tart crust was way too hard, we needed a hammer to cut into it. Blueberry bread pudding was pretty good. But oh man, that apple tart is awesome, buttery flaky crust, properly sliced thin apples, and that caramel sauce is what makes this dish, I could've just taken that sauce home and save it for a big bowl of vanilla ice cream. Service was efficient, our waiter forgot to order our beet salad, we let it slide. And its nice to see a restaurant where the owner's name is actually there, Kiki sat us down to our table.

Jane A.

The steak au poivre here is the best ever. The sauce is incredibly light and rich at the same time. The steak is top grade. If you're getting the mussels, you should save some of the bread to sop up the broth. It's as good as the mussels themselves, if not better. Love the intimate country french ambience.

Jolie R.

What a disappointment! We went to Cirque de Soleil and wanted to make it a Francais soir and decided Kiki's was the place since we'd heard so many good things about it. I can't remember what hubby had, but my sea bass was so dry it was inedible. The wait staff was pretty snooty and ignored us most of the evening. It was my b-day, so they brought me a great chocolate yummy for dessert, so I'll give them kudos for that. Expensive - too much for what we had. Don't think I'll be back.

Dan M.

Kiki's is ok. I ordered the steak pommes frites. It was good. Le Bouchon and Bistro Campagna are better. The chocolate mousse dessert was pretty good. The dining room was kinda interesting. The crowd was a few decades my senior. The server was nice. If you would describe this review as riveting or have a heart problem that dissuades you from doing things that raise your pulse above 60, then you will probably love Kiki's.