Le Sud

Le Sud Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant & décor: Owner Sandy Chen (Koi Fine Asian Cuisine) spared no expense in turning this Roscoe Village space into a woo-worthy date spot. From the tin ceiling to the antique French sideboards and hutches to the glass hurricane light fixtures, the restaurant feels like the luxe home that you want to linger in. Come summer, a rooftop opens for the neighborhoodies who aren't used to rooftop restaurants in this mostly residential enclave.

Likes: Luxurious feel for a neighborhood spot.
Dislikes: Temperatures off on some dishes.

Food & Drinks: Executive chef Ryan Brosseau (Table, Donkey & Stick; Perennial Virant) summons Provençal flavors on this thoughtful menu. Earthy, wood-grilled escargot is a memorable appetizer, presented on a stick for easy consumption and paired with petite green salad and crisp country bread. Beet and apple salad marry the savory and sweet, with some acidity thrown in for good measure --- the sweetness of the fruit is a foil against the bitter arugula. For entrées, the pan-roasted duck breast is a winner thanks to a subtle lavender honey glaze. Traditional steak frites bears tender pan-seared meat with crunchy frites. Finish the meal with decadent, fluffy chocolate mousse. An extensive wine program designed by wine director Terry McNeese (Le Lan, De Quay, The Gage, Henri) offers 50 bottles and 14 by the glass, with France heavily represented.