Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

French onion soup and beer in Illinois

You want a bowl of French onion soup paired with a good beer. You need a place that understands the value of a casual, savory combination.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
The Brown Onion image 1
The Brown Onion image 2
The Brown Onion image 3
View all
American restaurant

Small bar and dining space offers an intimate atmosphere with a wrap-around bar, multiple big screens, and booth seating. The crowd includes many regulars, creating a friendly, welcoming vibe similar to a hometown pub. A cozy slot machine room adds to the casual, nostalgic feel.

Generous portions of French onion soup come with a rich, flavorful broth and well-cooked onions. The soup consistently tastes delicious and stands out as a solid choice for a side or starter.

Good variety of ice cold bottled beer stands out. The beer menu offers solid choices alongside food options.

People are saying

"The bar food here is surprisingly delicious and a good value."

"The ribs here are so tender, they just fall right off the bone."

"I enjoyed the good variety of beer here."

Good to know

1

There is convenient parking in the lot.

2

The place was packed during my visit.

3

I paid $47 for two steak sandwiches.

02
Dukes Northwoods image 1

Rustic cabin design with large garage doors opening to river views creates an authentic Northwoods Wisconsin vibe. Loud, lively main area contrasts with quieter back room featuring non-high-top seating and game sounds. Multiple TVs show sports, and outdoor patio seating adds to the casual, fun atmosphere.

Rich cheese curds top the French onion soup, adding a creamy texture. The soup pairs well with hearty dishes like fried walleye and smash burgers.

Great selection of draft beers and options in cans or bottles stands out here. Staff answers questions and creates a welcoming vibe while you enjoy an IPA or other brews.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burgers here were the best."

"The pork tenderloin sandwich was amazing and huge."

"I thought the French Onion Soup was divine."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, featuring discounts on drinks and food.

2

The loaded bloody mary is available only on weekends from 10am to 1pm.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on game days, especially during Packer games.

03
Wolfs Head Restaurant & Bar image 1

Large werewolf statue marks an old-fashioned bar with open-air patio and garage door seating. Atmosphere feels friendly and relaxing, shifting from quiet to crowded at dinner. TVs show sports and news, attracting a lively crowd.

Unique New Orleans Baked French Onion Soup stands out on the menu. The classic French onion soup is consistently fantastic and pairs well with a side salad.

A beer garden offers a relaxed outdoor spot to enjoy drinks. The selection includes beers, wines, and cocktails with a notable variety at Wolfs Head.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always comes out perfect."

"The French Onion Soup here is fantastic and a must-try."

"They had a nice beer list and a good whiskey selection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Half-price burger deal available on Mondays.

3

Parking can be tricky with a mix of diagonal and straight spots.

04
Jameson's Pub Joliet image 1

Sports bar with many TVs and a large outdoor patio creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Cozy patio seating and a dog-friendly space offer a relaxed vibe outside, while inside feels energetic and busy during games. Flat metal ceilings contribute to high noise levels, making conversation difficult when crowded.

Rich Baked French Onion Soup stands out with deep flavor and a satisfying finish. It pairs well with other menu items and draws repeat orders for its consistent quality.

Good beer selection includes a solid variety on tap. Plenty of choices make it easy to find a cold beer to enjoy with food like chicken wings.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"They had a lot of beers on tap."

"I thought the French Onion Soup was very good."

Good to know

1

Bingo night happens every Tuesday with drink specials.

2

Game day specials are available during major sports events.

3

A 3% surcharge applies to credit card payments.

05
Gale Street Inn Chicago image 1

Newly remodeled space combines Great Gatsby decor with a supper club vibe and a small stage for live jazz and ukulele performances. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with ample table spacing for comfortable conversation. Lively evenings feature phenomenal live music that enhances the classic old school Chicago environment.

Baked French onion soup stands out with its perfect balance and divine appearance. It consistently delivers a rich and satisfying flavor.

Cold beer comes with a good selection alongside cocktails and wine. The beer list offers solid choices even during quiet hours.

People are saying

"These ribs are the best in town, truly fall-off-the-bone perfection."

"I ordered a few beers and cocktails alongside the ribs."

"The French Onion Soup was perfect."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the place fills up quickly.

2

Live jazz music happens on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

3

The free parking is convenient.

06
Squire Ale House image 1

Medieval decor contrasts with bright lighting and comfortable cushioned seating. Live music and outdoor fire pits create a lively atmosphere, especially on the patio where the vibe feels like a party. The space suits large groups with ample seating and a well-stocked bar.

Baked French Onion Soup comes hot and standard with mild flavor. It suits a cold day but lacks strong seasoning.

The beer list features a solid selection with exclusive brews and a Squire Red Ale that stands out as delicious. New offerings under current ownership maintain good quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good."

"I thought the beer list was good."

"The French Onion Soup was amazing and ideal for a cold day."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait on Friday evenings during peak hours.

3

A 3% surcharge applies for credit card payments.

07
Miller's Ale House image 1

Spacious restaurant with charming wood decor and multiple TVs showing various games creates a lively atmosphere. Noise levels rise during peak times, contributing to an energetic vibe. Two bars offer a wide selection of beers on tap, making it a popular spot for sports fans.

Rich flavor and satisfying warmth define the French onion soup here. It pairs well with fresh salads and stands out as a solid starter choice.

More than one brown beer option exists, including Robert the Bruce and Irish red, not just IPAs. Beers come fresh and at a great temperature for a cold drink after a long day.

People are saying

"Our server Dani was outstanding and very helpful during lunch."

"The prime rib here is really good and tasty."

"The French Onion Soup's rich broth and browned cheese amazed me."

Good to know

1

Expect a 55-minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.

2

The tables and common areas are often unclean.

3

The manager does not accept temporary IDs due to company policy.

08
Palmer Place image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with an old-world atmosphere and cozy outdoor patio offers a relaxing vibe away from traffic. Quiet dining area contrasts with a lively bar side for different moods. Known for comfort food like outstanding burgers and seasoned beef nachos.

Rich and flavorful broth defines the French Onion Soup here. It consistently delivers a delicious taste that stands out.

An extensive beer menu offers a huge, diverse selection on tap and in bottles. Frozen beer glasses come on request, enhancing the experience with ample seating for enjoying the drinks.

People are saying

"I couldn't stop going back for their juicy pink burgers."

"They have a huge, diverse selection of beer."

"I tried the French Onion Soup and it was good."

Good to know

1

Street parking near the establishment is often full; consider alternative options.

2

A municipal parking garage is available across the street for convenient access.

3

Live music occurs every Saturday night, making it a lively spot for visitors.

Discover more

Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...