Petit Pomeroy: A taste of Paris blooms in River North

If you know me at all, you'll know I absolutely love French cuisine, in fact I love everything about the culture - the food, the wine, the just general je ne sais quoi (or vibe, as the non-French might refer...) Well, in one of my local neighborhoods, I may have found my new favorite restaurant, complete with the delectable delights and charming ambiance of France, in Petit Pomeroy.

Stepping inside this bistro, the River North outpost of its beloved Winnetka sibling, feels like a genuine teleportation to a cozy corner of Paris, a welcome escape from the bustling Chicago streets outside. Petit Pomeroy has successfully captured the essence of a classic French bistro. The decor is a masterclass in understated elegance: think warm lighting casting a soft glow on dark wood accents, comfortable and elevated furnishings inviting lingering lunches, and subtle Parisian touches that avoid being overly thematic. It's a space that feels both refined and inviting, perfect for a romantic dinner, a catch-up with friends, or even a sophisticated solo indulgence.

Tuna Nicoise tartare

Seared fois gras

The menu, as expected, is a curated selection of French bistro staples done exceptionally well. Our experience was made even more special by our gracious host, Chris, who guided us through a memorable culinary journey. We began with the zesty but smooth Tuna Niçoise tartare, a refreshing and beautifully composed salad with perfectly seasoned tuna, and waffled crisps to scoop it up with. This was followed by the decadent Seared Fois Gras, a melt-in-your-mouth indulgence served with a delicate accompaniment that perfectly balanced its richness.

For our main course, we opted for the quintessential Steak Frites. And oh, we were not disappointed! The steak arrived cooked to absolute perfection – a beautiful sear on the outside giving way to a tender, juicy interior. The accompanying frites were crisp and golden, seasoned just right. It was a classic dish elevated by impeccable execution.

To conclude our Parisian escape, we indulged in the Chocolate Pot de Crème. This divine dessert was rich, velvety smooth, and intensely chocolatey – the perfect sweet ending to a truly exceptional meal.

Loving the chocolate pot de creme!

Adding to the magic of the evening was the thoughtful wine pairing suggested by the sommelier. The wine list is well-curated, featuring a solid selection of French wines by the glass and bottle, perfectly complementing the food.

Service at Petit Pomeroy was attentive and knowledgeable without being intrusive. Our server was happy to offer recommendations and answer questions about the menu, adding to the overall enjoyable experience.

The Verdict: Petit Pomeroy is a welcome addition to the River North dining scene. It delivers on its promise of authentic French bistro fare in a genuinely charming and inviting setting.

If you're looking for a taste of Paris in the heart of Chicago, a place to savor classic French dishes prepared with care and precision, then Petit Pomeroy should be high on your list. It's a little gem that brings a touch of European elegance to the energy of River North.