Finding the perfect escargot in Chicago can feel like searching for a hidden gem. This city, known for its diverse culinary scene, offers a surprising number of restaurants featuring this French delicacy. But not all escargot is created equal. This guide dives into the best 19 places to savor this snail-based delight, ensuring your next Chicago culinary adventure is truly memorable. We'll explore various styles, preparations, and price points, helping you find the perfect escargot experience to suit your taste and budget.
Exploring Chicago's Top Escargot Options
This list isn't just a simple ranking; it's a curated selection highlighting the unique qualities of each restaurant and their escargot offerings. We've considered factors like the quality of ingredients, preparation methods, overall dining experience, and of course, the taste!
Classic French Elegance:
- Le Bouchon: This charming bistro delivers an authentic French experience, including their perfectly cooked escargot, bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Their commitment to traditional methods shines through in every bite.
- Rosebud on Taylor Street: A Chicago institution known for its romantic ambiance and sophisticated menu. Their escargot is a testament to their dedication to classic French techniques and high-quality ingredients.
- Mon Ami Gabi: Located in Lincoln Park, this restaurant offers stunning views alongside its delicious escargot, often served with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Modern Takes on a Classic:
- Andros Taverna: This Greek establishment puts a unique spin on escargot, offering a Mediterranean-inspired preparation that complements the snails' delicate flavor.
- RPM Italian: Expect an elevated take on escargot at this upscale restaurant, perhaps incorporating seasonal ingredients or unique flavor combinations.
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: Known for its steakhouse flair, Bavette's surprisingly offers a refined and flavorful escargot preparation, showcasing their attention to detail in all aspects of their menu.
Casual & Cozy Spots:
- The Purple Pig: This lively tapas restaurant provides a taste of Spain alongside their escargot, offering a unique contrast in flavors and textures.
- Monteverde: A popular West Loop spot that frequently features escargot on their ever-changing menu, often with creative and seasonal twists.
- Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard's renowned restaurant offers a globally-inspired menu, with escargot sometimes appearing as a unique and unexpected addition to their small plates.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Finds:
- La Colombe: This smaller restaurant boasts a consistently high-quality escargot dish, a testament to their passion for French cuisine.
- Avec: This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant surprises with their unique escargot preparation, often incorporating creative and innovative elements.
- Osteria Langhe: An excellent option for those seeking an Italian twist, this restaurant often showcases seasonal escargot dishes as part of their rotating menu.
Escargot Beyond the Expected:
- French Market: This casual eatery offers a more accessible and affordable escargot option without compromising on taste or quality.
- Big Star: While known for its tacos, Big Star sometimes features escargot on its menu, providing a fun and unexpected addition to their diverse culinary offerings.
- RPM Steak: Another option in the RPM group, this steakhouse often elevates the escargot dish, pairing it with high-quality sides and wine pairings.
For the Adventurous Palate:
- Oriole: This Michelin-starred restaurant might offer a truly innovative and unique escargot preparation, pushing the boundaries of this classic dish.
- Ever: Another high-end option known for its creative tasting menus; expect an unforgettable (and likely pricey) escargot experience.
Finding Your Perfect Escargot: A Comparative Table
| Restaurant | Style | Price Point | Ambiance | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Le Bouchon | Classic French | $$ | Romantic, Cozy | Traditional Preparation |
| Rosebud on Taylor | Classic French | $$ | Elegant, Upscale | High-Quality Ingredients |
| Andros Taverna | Mediterranean | $ | Lively, Casual | Unique Flavor Combination |
| The Purple Pig | Tapas, Mediterranean | $ | Lively, Social | Part of a Larger Menu |
| French Market | Casual, French | $ | Relaxed, Friendly | Affordable Option |
| Oriole | Modern, Innovative | $$ | Fine Dining | Experimental Approach |
Note: Price points are approximate and can vary. $$ indicates expensive, $ moderate, and $ affordable.
Tips for Choosing Your Escargot Adventure
- Consider your budget: Escargot prices can vary significantly depending on the restaurant and preparation.
- Check menus in advance: Some restaurants offer escargot as a seasonal special or part of a tasting menu.
- Read reviews: Online reviews can provide valuable insight into the quality and taste of a restaurant's escargot.
- Don't be afraid to try something new: Many restaurants offer unique and creative preparations of escargot that might surprise and delight you.
Chicago’s diverse culinary landscape offers a remarkable range of escargot experiences. With this guide, you’re equipped to embark on a delicious journey, discovering your new favorite escargot haven in the Windy City. Bon appétit!
