Interior of a restaurant with white tablecloths window view of a brick building and trees outside wall with artwork

Paul Strabbing

Chicago

Brindille

  • French
  • Special Occasion
  • Fine Dining

Brindille has stood the test of time, carving out a niche in one of the city’s busiest dining neighborhoods. Cousins Carrie Nahabedian and Michael Nahabedian opened their French-inspired restaurant in 2013, bringing fine dining to a then-underserved stretch of River North. Expect white-tablecloth service, minimalist decor, and a menu of fresh oysters, plump lobster, and succulent chicken (among other offerings). It’s a place that brings Paris to Chicago, with a beverage program focused on French wines and European spirits. Dine in à la carte or try one of the three tasting menus. A five-course, eight-course, and the “Flavors of France” menu, which highlights a different French region each month.

The food is classic with clean flavors. Chef Carrie Nahabedian goes to the farmers market a few times a week, so dishes are seasonal. You’re always going to see something fun and new on the menu.
A man wearing glasses and a white shirt seated indoors in front of a decorative wall panel
Mike Sheerin

Mike's Perfect Order

A plated dish featuring roast moulard duck breast with garnish and sauce served on a decorated plate

Ryan Beshel 

Dover Sole Fillets Meunière

This classic French fish dish showcases Dover sole, cooked on the bone, filleted, then lightly fried. A rich lemon-butter sauce is poured tableside for a dramatic finish.

Roast Lacquered Moulard Duck Breast

Slowly basted in its own fat, duck breast arrives nestled in a bed of seasonal vegetables and glossy with a fruity sauce that might showcase honeysuckle and oranges or stone fruit and vinegar, depending on what's at the farmers market.

Warm Baked Cherry-Almond Clafoutis

Cherries are baked into a soft, custard-like cake, their tartness balanced by the richness of almonds. The clafoutis is served warm, topped with a generous dollop of crème Chantilly.