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Onion soup in Illinois

A bowl of onion soup with a thick layer of melted cheese is the only thing that cuts through the chill.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Cozy spot with Hollywood regency decor offers a speakeasy vibe perfect for jazzy date nights. Bartenders serve exceptional cocktails like Old Fashioneds and martinis. French onion soup shines with a crusty cheese topping, ideal as a sharable appetizer.

French onion soup features a crusty cheese topping that sometimes runs down the cup. It serves well as a sharable appetizer with a solid flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters, was super fresh and amazing."

"The French food here is phenomenal, with bold, refined flavors."

"I enjoyed the French onion soup; it was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.

02
The Brown Onion image 1
American restaurant

Small bar with an intimate vibe and wrap-around bar offers a friendly, hometown feel. French onion soup is a solid choice with great taste and good portion. Cozy slot machine room adds casual charm to the welcoming space.

French onion soup comes in a good portion and tastes exceptionally good. It stands out as a solid choice for a side or starter.

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 found the French onion soup here to be exceptionally good."

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.

03
Touchรฉ French Creole image 1
Creole restaurant

Louisiana-inspired Creole spot shines with rich French onion soup and New Orleans-style decor. Cozy yet upscale vibe suits lively crowds and date nights. Full bar and music add to the chill atmosphere perfect for celebrations.

Rich French onion soup features prominently on the menu and often serves as a starter alongside gumbo. Its flavor stands out enough to prompt repeat orders.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here serve amazing, flavorful food that's perfectly seasoned."

"I highly recommend the Crรจme Brรปlรฉe; it was amazing."

"You have to try the French onion soup; it's a must-try dish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for tables without a reservation.

3

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

04
Coq d'Or image 1
Restaurant

Classic bar with 1930s cozy atmosphere offers rich French onion soup with deep flavor. Live piano and jazz create an elegant vibe. Space feels dark and lively, perfect for music and sports fans.

Rich French onion soup stands out with a deep, savory flavor. The menu keeps it simple, featuring this soup alongside a notable bookbinder soup.

People are saying

"It's a cozy spot with a nice, quiet atmosphere."

"The bar service from Brian was outstanding and made my stay exceptional."

"I thought the French Onion Soup was amazing, maybe the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Live jazz music is offered on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Reservations are recommended during busy holiday seasons.

3

Expect higher prices due to the restaurant's location in a hotel.

05
Oak Street Restaurant And Bar image 1

American restaurant buzzes with 16 TVs showing games and UFC. Rich, flavorful French onion soup shines alongside hearty meals. Affordable prices and cold draft beer keep the lively, noisy atmosphere perfect for socializing.

Rich and flavorful broth defines the French onion soup here. It pairs well with hearty dishes and stands out as a favorite choice among soups.

People are saying

"The food here is great."

"It's a great place to watch live sports with tons of TVs."

"I thought their French onion soup was amazing."

Good to know

1

The prices at Oak Street Restaurant And Bar are affordable compared to other places.

2

The kitchen stays open late, serving food until at least 10 PM.

3

Expect a 20-30 minute wait during peak dinner hours on weekends.

06
Dukes Northwoods image 1

Rustic cabin design with river views sets a true Northwoods vibe. Rich French onion soup with melted cheese pairs well with hearty meals. Multiple TVs and a lively main area create a sports bar feel, while a quieter back room offers game sounds and casual seating.

Rich French onion soup features a savory broth topped with melted cheese. It pairs well with hearty dishes like fried walleye and smash burgers.

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 delicious."

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.

07
Jameson's Pub Joliet image 1

Sports bar buzzes with many TVs and a large outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. Rich Baked French Onion Soup offers deep flavor and a satisfying finish. Cozy patio seating balances the lively, sometimes loud indoor vibe.

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

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"I loved their American food, especially the bacon cheeseburger."

"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.

08
Brass Tack image 1
Restaurant

Space blends rustic charm with modern touches like exposed brick and pendant lighting, creating a warm vibe. French onion soup shines with rich flavor and generous portions, perfect for sharing. Dim lighting and music craft an intimate atmosphere ideal for social or romantic occasions.

French onion soup comes in generous portions, often served in separate bowls for sharing. It features a rich flavor and appears on special menus like restaurant week lunches.

People are saying

"The service here is exceptional and the staff is so friendly."

"The ravioli here is amazing, cooked to perfection with great flavor."

"I loved the French Onion Soup, but it was pricey."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table ahead of time.

2

The menu features a limited selection of appetizers during happy hour.

3

Prices are generally higher than average for the portion sizes.

09
Wolfs Head Restaurant & Bar image 1

Large werewolf statue marks a friendly bar with an open-air patio and garage door seating. Unique New Orleans Baked French Onion Soup shines alongside a classic version and side salad. TVs show sports and news, creating a lively crowd atmosphere.

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

People are saying

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

"I thought the burgers were delicious."

"The French onion soup here is fantastic and a must-try."

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.

10
Gavroche image 1
French restaurant

Quaint French restaurant offers light complex broth in its onion soup, perfect alongside salad Lyonnaise and steak frites. Ornate decor and a modern French playlist create a sophisticated relaxed atmosphere favored by an older crowd.

Broth stays light yet complex with a good chunk of onions. It pairs well with other dishes like salad Lyonnaise and steak frites.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"I loved their inventive French food, especially the onion soup."

"Their French Onion soup was different and delicious."

Good to know

1

Gavroche does not take reservations for two people.

2

Gavroche offers 50% off bottles of wine and caviar.

3

Dogs are welcome on the patio.

11
Gaston's Bistro image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio with cozy seating feels like a French bistro, perfect for relaxing. Rich, baked French onion soup warms you up with deep flavors. Small, clean indoor space offers a quiet, welcoming vibe with soft music and comfy decor.

Rich and flavorful French onion soup offers a comforting experience. The soup often comes baked, adding a warm, hearty touch.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is so fresh and made to order."

"The outdoor seating here is really nice, especially on nice days."

"The French onion soup was rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample, including designated handicap spots.

2

The restaurant allows guests to bring their own liquor.

3

The outdoor patio is open as of May 31st.

12
The Little Gem Cafe image 1

French bistro offers a dual atmosphere with live jazz on one side and quiet dining on the other. Onion soup shines with a crusty top and melty cheese, delivering authentic flavor. Gold accents and fresh flowers add to the cozy vibe while evenings get lively and noisy.

Baked in a crock bowl, the onion soup features a crusty top with melty cheese. It meets classic expectations and stands out as exceptional and authentic.

People are saying

"The food at these Date Spots is amazing, especially the short ribs."

"I ordered a filet mignon, and it was perfect."

"I thought the baked onion soup was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a Tuesday-Thursday date night special with a 3-course dinner for two.

2

Happy hour is available after work with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking is available a block away, but it can be challenging to find closer spots.

13
Tre Kronor image 1
Swedish restaurant

Scandinavian-style restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a charming garden patio. Multiple versions of onion soup shine, including Dutch and Danish styles. Soups pair well with Swedish Meatballs and classic cinnamon rolls, blending authentic Nordic flavors with a warm, inviting vibe.

Multiple versions of onion soup stand out, including Dutch, Danish, and French styles. The soups pair well with dishes like Swedish Meatballs and traditional cinnamon rolls.

People are saying

"The patio is lovely and delightful."

"The Swedish meatballs at brunch were tender and nutmeg-kissed."

"I enjoyed the French onion soup here."

Good to know

1

The Valentine's Day menu offers a 3-course fine dining experience for $59.

2

The julebord is available during the holiday season.

3

Sankta Lucia celebrations occur in December.

14
Bistro Monadnock image 1
French restaurant

Historic building hosts a French bistro with European charm and elegant design. Rich and cheesy onion soup shines with a 2-day veal broth. Live jazz and a skilled bar create a relaxing atmosphere perfect for refined dining.

Rich and cheesy, the French onion soup features a 2-day veal broth that adds deep flavor. It stands out as a star dish with clear signs of patience and skill in its preparation.

People are saying

"The escargot here is outstanding and alone worth the visit."

"It's a cozy, intimate hidden gem in the South Loop."

"I thought the French onion soup rivaled the best I had in Paris."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid being turned away.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect a $10 charge for each cheese on the charcuterie board.

15
Jimmy's Charhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers an intimate environment with generous portions perfect for family meals and date nights. Baked French onion soup features a melted cheese layer that pairs well with salad. The space feels dark and dated but suits quiet conversation.

Baked French onion soup comes with a generous layer of melted cheese on top. It serves well as a starter and pairs nicely with a salad.

People are saying

"The Reuben sandwich is awesome for dinner."

"The service for Date Spots was attentive and delightful."

"I loved the baked French onion soup covered in cheese."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials start at 3pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers a spacious setup suitable for events and gatherings.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

16
Gale Street Inn Chicago image 1

Newly remodeled space blends Great Gatsby decor with a cozy supper club vibe. Baked French onion soup shines with perfect balance and pairs well with hearty dishes. Lively nights feature phenomenal live jazz, creating a classic Chicago feel.

Baked French onion soup stands out with its perfect balance and divine appearance. It consistently pairs well with hearty dishes like ribs and steak sandwiches.

People are saying

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

"It's got this awesome old school vibe, like a supper club."

"I thought 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.

17
Lake Barrington Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse shines with high-quality steaks and a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for romantic dinners. French onion soup features tender onions and toasted cheese that taste delicious. Stunning artwork adds charm to the intimate space.

Tender onions and nicely toasted cheese stand out in the French onion soup. It tastes delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The dry-aged ribeye steak was melt-in-your-mouth goodness."

"The peach cobbler is amazing, just like Mom used to make."

"The French onion soup had tender onions and amazing, wow, that cheese!"

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Friday nights to ensure seating.

2

Expect high prices, with dinner for four costing around $720.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, providing a personal touch to service.

18
Lake Villa Restaurant image 1
Family restaurant

Small diner offers a family-run atmosphere with cozy, old-time charm. French onion soup features a rich, savory broth and pairs well with hearty meals like fried chicken. Intimate space overlooks a calm park, creating a welcoming vibe that feels like home.

French onion soup comes with a rich, savory broth and is available every day. It pairs well with hearty dishes like fried chicken or a double cheeseburger with fries.

People are saying

"This family owned spot serves delicious scratch kitchen food."

"These cinnamon rolls are the best I have ever had."

"I had the best Onion Soup I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

2

Expect longer wait times during weekend brunch hours.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

19
Stacy's Cafe image 1
Steak house

Classic supper club offers a cozy atmosphere with intimate dining and a lively bar. Baked French onion soup delivers rich, savory flavor that pairs well with fish almondine. Friendly spot draws a mixed crowd including older guests, making it a warm neighborhood hub.

Baked French onion soup stands out with a rich, savory flavor. It pairs well with dishes like fish almondine and Bleu Cheese Burgers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made to order."

"The steak here is excellent, tender and succulent."

"I found the French onion soup to be wonderful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy holiday seasons.

2

They don't split checks, so plan accordingly if dining with a group.

3

Burgers are priced between $11.50 and $14.00.

20
Frankfort Chophouse image 1
American restaurant

Beautiful chandeliers and brick walls create an upscale atmosphere with warm lighting. French onion soup is thicker and hearty, offering deep flavor and satisfying texture. Rustic sophistication and meticulous decoration make it perfect for special occasions.

Thicker than regular versions, the French onion soup features a rich, hearty texture. It stands out for its deep flavor and satisfying consistency.

People are saying

"The filet was perfectly cooked with a nice crust."

"The service for Date Spots was well-paced and not overwhelming."

"I've never had French Onion Soup this amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Expect to spend around $100 for two people, including drinks.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but there's a 3% surcharge.

21
Bandol Brasserie & Raw Bar image 1

Space blends art deco style with southern France beach vibes for an upscale feel. French pop and chill house music create a lively yet low-key mood. Onion soup stands out with deep richness and a golden gruyรจre topping, perfect alongside escargot or steak frites.

Deep, slow-cooked onion richness defines the French onion soup here, topped with a golden, bubbling layer of gruyรจre cheese. It pairs well with other dishes like escargot and steak and frites, making it a solid choice for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the steak frites."

"The service at these dinner spots is excellent and attentive."

"The French onion soup is delicious with gooey gruyรจre cheese."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

The rooftop menu starts at 3 PM, perfect for afternoon gatherings.

22
Elba's Golden Steer image 1

Small steakhouse offers a nostalgic vibe with old-fashioned decor and dark walls. French onion soup is rich and flavorful, often hailed as one of the best. Cozy bar serves cocktails to a down-to-earth crowd, making it a charming spot despite the noise.

Rich and flavorful, the French onion soup stands out with a slightly salty edge. It consistently earns praise as one of the best versions around, often paired well with salad or served alongside main dishes.

People are saying

"The French Onion Soup here is delicious and flavorful."

"It's an old school steakhouse with a great vibe."

"The French onion soup here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must on weekends to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant charges a $5 fee for splitting a plate.

3

All meals come with soup, salad, potato, and bread.

23
Around the Clock Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Classic American diner buzzes with friendly chatter and cozy booths. Baked French onion soup shines with rich broth and crunchy bread. Homemade pies at the treat counter add a home-like vibe to the experience.

Baked French onion soup features a rich, flavorful broth topped with well-proportioned mozzarella cheese and crunchy bread that stays crisp. It serves hot and delivers a consistently tasty experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well-prepared."

"Their breakfast options are great and consistently good."

"I keep coming back for the delectable French Onion Soup."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves Prime Rib special starting at 12 PM on Saturdays.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Memorial Day with longer wait times.

3

Prices are generally affordable with good portion sizes.

24
Nia Restaurant & Wine Bar image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor patio creates a warm atmosphere with live music and cozy seating. French onion soup offers a rich flavor and pairs perfectly with crispy crostini. Elegant interior design adds a classy vibe ideal for relaxed evenings or social gatherings.

French onion soup stands out with its rich flavor and well-balanced sweetness. It pairs well with the crispy crostini served alongside.

People are saying

"It's a cozy and intimate spot, perfect for a date."

"The Chefs Tasting menu was delicious down to the last bite."

"The French onion soup was incredibly delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the chef's tasting menu, priced at $75 per person.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

An automatic 20% gratuity is added for parties of four or more.

25
The Village Squire (Crystal Lake) image 1

Castle-inspired design with brick walls and stained glass sets a historic tavern vibe. French onion soup has a rich broth that pairs well with ribeye and brisket mac. Live music adds energy but can get loud near the stage.

French onion soup offers a rich flavor with a delicious broth and a good balance of ingredients. Some find it could use more onions, but it pairs well with other dishes like ribeye and brisket mac.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and cooked to perfection."

"The live music here is absolutely fantastic."

"I thought the French onion soup was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Thursday night.

2

Daily specials are available; check the menu for details.

3

Every Friday, enjoy all-you-can-eat breaded perch.

26
Palmer Place image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers cozy outdoor patio and a quiet dining area. French Onion soup is delicious and consistent. Comfort food shines with outstanding burgers and seasoned beef nachos.

French Onion soup stands out with a delicious and consistent flavor that impresses every time.

People are saying

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

"I loved dining outdoors on the patio."

"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.

27
Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro image 1

Large bar with cozy fireplace offers a warm, family-friendly vibe and live traditional Irish music. Guinness onion soup delivers a bitterly decadent flavor with rich depth, though it can be salty. Upscale yet welcoming, it blends comfort and quality well.

Guinness onion soup stands out with its bitterly decadent flavor and rich depth. It tends to be salty but remains excellent overall.

People are saying

"This pub has such a cozy and friendly atmosphere."

"I thought the ribs here were fantastic."

"The Guinness onion soup was a highlight, bitterly decadent."

Good to know

1

The storytelling event occurs on the second Thursday of each month.

2

Live Irish music sessions are held on Wednesdays and Sundays.

3

The Sunday trad session runs from 1 to 3 pm.

28
Jameson's Charhouse image 1

Dark interior with 1980s design and live band creates a lively atmosphere. Baked French onion soup offers rich flavor and warmth. Bar serves a variety of cocktails with social vibe despite some dated furnishings.

Baked French onion soup stands out with its rich flavor and delightful warmth. It features a good balance of broth and onions, though some wish for more Gruyere cheese on top.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, juicy, and mouthwatering."

"The food at these dinner spots is great and a good value."

"I thought the baked French onion soup was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is generally available, even during busy times.

2

The restaurant offers two-for-one specials on select days.

3

Expect longer wait times for food on weekends.

29
The Brown Bag Bistro image 1

Cozy sandwich shop shines with a spacious outdoor patio and lively music. French Onion Soup quality varies, but some servings boast excellent croutons. The spot blends a small town feel with fresh, flavorful sandwiches for a warm, inviting experience.

French Onion Soup varies here, with some servings featuring excellent croutons and others tasting like stale bread and rubbery cheese. Quality ranges from standard to notably good or excellent.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were 10/10."

"I loved the beautiful patio atmosphere."

"I thought the French onion soup was the best I had."

Good to know

1

Expect limited indoor seating, which can lead to long wait times.

2

Lunch prices for sandwiches start at $13 or more.

3

The restaurant charges a 3% fee on all credit card transactions.

30
The Blossom Cafe image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant buzzes with classic jazz music and lively outdoor seating. French onion soup is a very good upgrade with sliced cheese and soggy bread. Dim lighting and casual decor create a cozy vibe despite loud music.

French onion soup comes as an upgrade for an extra $3.99 with meals. It features sliced cheese on top that is not fully melted or browned, and the soup portion is small with soggy bread, but overall it is considered very good.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and high quality."

"The Breakfast service here is so polite and kind."

"I loved their French Onion Soup; it was very good."

Good to know

1

Poker events are hosted regularly; check the schedule for details.

2

The venue is cash only on certain days due to system issues.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

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