Though it seems unlikely escargots found a way to Chicago's Little Italy, they most certainly did --- and to good success at Joël Kazouini’s charming bistro. Yes, the noise level may soar on busy nights, but given the appeal of the food, it’s easy to cut the place slack. We recommend the pâté, the wild mushroom tart and the plump moules marinières, steeped in herbaceous wine sauce. The steak frites are a classic go-to, topped with maître d’hôtel butter with crispy frites, along with comforting, by-the-book coq au vin. Dessert choices are simple, as in a tangy lemon or clafouti-style blueberry tart, while service is on the money in every respect. A tip: The garden is built for romance, especially at lunchtime when it's quiet.
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