When it comes to exceptional dining in Chicago, Boucherie stands out as a top destination for those seeking the perfect blend of French-inspired cuisine and a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city, Boucherie offers an elevated dining experience that highlights expertly butchered meats, classic French dishes, and an impressive drink menu that goes beyond just wine. Whether you’re looking for an intimate night out or a memorable meal with friends, Boucherie has everything you need for a fantastic evening.

The Atmosphere: Chic and Welcoming

As soon as you step inside Boucherie, you’re welcomed by a cozy yet upscale ambiance that makes you feel right at home. With its dark wood finishes, plush seating, and ambient lighting, the space strikes a balance between modern chic and classic French elegance. It’s the kind of place where you can savor your meal, enjoy good conversation, and unwind in style. Whether you’re seated in the main dining room or on the charming outdoor patio, Boucherie’s inviting atmosphere sets the tone for a memorable meal.

The attentive and knowledgeable staff only adds to the experience, ensuring that your evening is smooth, comfortable, and filled with great recommendations—whether for food or drink.

The Menu: A Meat Lover’s Dream with French Flair

Boucherie’s menu is a celebration of high-quality meats and timeless French cooking. The restaurant lives up to its name (which translates to “butcher shop” in French), offering a variety of expertly prepared steaks, chops, and other cuts of meat. Whether you’re craving a tender filet mignon, a juicy ribeye, or a succulent lamb chop, Boucherie’s steaks are the star of the show—cooked to perfection and served with a range of delicious sides and sauces.

For those who want to explore traditional French dishes, the menu also features classic offerings like coq au vin, duck confit, and escargot, all prepared with the kind of attention to detail and flavor that transports you to a Parisian bistro. These dishes are made using fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques that showcase the richness of French cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes at Boucherie

• Steak Frites: A French staple, Boucherie’s Steak Frites is all about simplicity and perfection. A perfectly cooked steak paired with golden, crispy fries and a choice of sauces—béarnaise is always a winning choice!
• Duck Confit: Fall-apart tender duck with crispy skin, served alongside seasonal vegetables. This dish is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.
• Bone Marrow: For a truly indulgent appetizer, try the rich and buttery bone marrow, served with toast for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Escargot: Savor this French delicacy prepared in garlic butter, offering a balance of flavor and texture that’s sure to impress.
• Côte de Boeuf: This massive bone-in ribeye is perfect for sharing. It’s a showstopper and a must-try if you’re dining with a group or celebrating a special occasion.

While those above are the most popular dishes we choose to order from the specials of the day instead, but you truly can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

We opted for the Fletan Poêlé, a pan-seared halibut dish served with roasted vegetables, and it was an absolute delight—the fish was cooked to perfection, with a delicate, flaky texture and a delight of flavors. As well as the Prime Rib, which was tender, juicy, and cooked precisely to our liking. As well as the ever-delicious steamed mussels with toasted bread.

The Cocktails: A Crafty Complement to the Meal

In addition to its renowned wine list, Boucherie also features an exceptional cocktail menu that rivals the best in the city. While many come for the wine pairings, the expertly crafted cocktails are not to be missed. Each drink is designed to complement the rich, savory dishes on the menu, providing a delightful blend of flavors that heighten the dining experience.

Whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or looking to try something innovative, Boucherie’s cocktail list has something for everyone:

• French 75: A bubbly blend of gin, lemon, and champagne, this cocktail is light, refreshing, and a perfect way to start the meal.
• Boulevardier: A sophisticated mix of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari, offering a bold yet smooth flavor profile.
• Lavender Martini: For a floral twist, the Lavender Martini combines gin and lavender syrup for a fragrant and refreshing drink.
• Old Fashioned: A classic choice for those who prefer a strong and slightly sweet cocktail to pair with their steak.

Each cocktail is meticulously crafted with top-shelf ingredients, ensuring that your drink not only pairs well with your meal but stands out as an experience in its own right.

The Wine List: Perfect Pairings for Every Dish

Of course, Boucherie’s wine list remains one of the highlights of the dining experience. With an extensive selection of reds, whites, and sparkling wines from both local vineyards and renowned international wineries, there’s a perfect wine pairing for every dish. The knowledgeable staff can help guide you through the wine list, whether you’re a connoisseur or simply looking for the right wine to enhance your meal.

From bold reds that pair perfectly with a juicy steak to crisp whites that complement lighter dishes, Boucherie’s wine selection is thoughtfully curated to elevate the flavors of each course.

The Service

Last but not least, the staff at Boucherie go above and beyond to provide exceptional service, from when you arrive to when you leave. We were greeted warmly, our server was attentive and knowledgeable, and the overall experience was impeccable. It was a bit rainy on the evening of our visit, but the staff made sure we were comfortable before we even walked in, holding the door and assisting with our coats so we could start our dining experience on the right note. The staff’s attention to detail, the inviting ambiance, and the exceptional quality of the food and drink all make Boucherie a true standout in the city’s dining scene. They do not pester you and allow you to enjoy the meal at your own pace. Your server is always available to make recommendations or refill your drink.

Whether celebrating a special event, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary meal, Boucherie is the perfect place for any occasion. The warm atmosphere, impeccable service, and diverse menu of expertly crafted food and drinks make it a dining experience that’s hard to beat.

Happy Dining!

<3 Ann