Cafe des Architectes: User Reviews
My wife and I had a wonderful dinner here last night. Each course was artfully and tastefully done. The 3-course prix fixe was a fabulous value. In fact, given the high-level of gastronomic talent displayed, nothing seemed overpriced, including the wine list. As for the latter, while there certainly were enough $80+ bottles to satisfy those who like spending that much, there were many bottles in the $40-70 range), something becoming rare, especially in this neighborhood. Our waiter was very friendly and helpful; his suggestions were spot-on. This may be our new Favorite French restaurant. We'll definitely be back.
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We enjoyed everything on our first visit to CDA, but there just seemed to be something missing. The menu is very well designed, with selections sure to appeal to every taste. The service is quite good -- staff members were all cordial and well trained, and the pacing was leisurely. We ordered from the $42 prix fixe menu and were pleased with the ingredients, preparation and presentation of everything -- desserts were divine, especially a ginger-chocolate soufflé that stole the show! Wines were pricier than I’d expect for the labels, but the pours were ample. The décor is elegant, but rather “cold,” and the tables are spaced rather tightly. In our post-meal assessment, my companion & I agreed that it felt like we were dining in a hotel -- which we were -- and what was missing was a certain warmth & charm that would entice us to return.
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I went there this weekend for Chicago Restaurant Week and blogged all about it at makingchicagohome dot wordpress dot com
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A very nice restaurant. Decor is very modern and pretty. Food was good, but I just didn't have anything that I thought was divine or that I would make a trip back for. We ate for restaurant week- maybe they just weren't bringing their A game? We had pork belly, duck confit (probably the best of what we had), gnocchi, steak, and both desserts were very nice. Our server was very average. Probably would not go back paying full price; there are just too many other great places in town, but I would still give it a good rating.
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I wanted to try this restaurant during Restaurant Week, however, my husband was out of the country. We decided to try it on a Sunday during the recent holiday week-end. We were very glad we did. It is striking and modern, but very comfortable. Service was outstanding from the Parisian bartender to the host, server, and busser. A shared appetizer was somewhat disappointing, however, the balance of our meals was exceptional. Presentation is very artistic. The Seasonal Menu for $43 included appetizer or salad, entree, and dessert. In a high profile hotel, this is a great value. The hotel is beautiful with striking floral arrangements everywhere. We will definitely return.
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My husband and I went for dinner on a Friday night. Unfortunately, we had theater tickets and only had about 90 minutes to spend on dinner. I wish I could've been spoiled by the wait staff longer. They were incredibly attentive and helpful. The food was incredible (although the portions were small) even for my picky eater hubby (who used the word "fantastic"). The service was so good, that my husband even asked if the French were known for their service... ha ha ha. Tip: If you like traditional escargot, don’t order it here, its very different and not the same as the butter-drenched stuff I like.
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Brunch was delicious, elegant, prices were reasonable if not cheap, and the surroundings are very modern and classy. The restrooms are unfortunately located on the 2nd floor of the hotel it's in (the Sofitel), but a rather insignificant detail. The restaurant is rather small, so planning ahead or making reservations should considered.
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From Paris, lived in Chicago for 3 years, only 'real' French restaurant I found so far. Excellent food, however, what I really enjoyed was a perfect service: waiters don't bother you every 3 minutes ( "how's your food, more bread?, more water?, more this.., more that..., bla bla bla.." I really enjoyed my friends, we had great conversation without being unterrupted all the time.
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After I made my reservation for dinner, I read some of the reviews here. I almost cancelled the reservation. I am sooo glad I did not. If the earlier reviews had any validity, some drastic changes must have occurred, because the food was excellent, and we eat out a lot at top restaurants. We were greeted by a sweet and friendly young woman; served by a very attentive and cheerful young man who was not clingy and overly oppressive. Yet I never felt like I lacked for anything. When I go out to eat with friends, I don't want the waiter to be the focal point (unless I'm with someone really boring...) Water was always filled. Service could not have been better. Rolls were great, as I think some noted. There were three of us. Two of us selected the special menu- $40 for appetizer, entre and dessert. We each chose something different and no one was disappointed. Portions were perfect- unless you are used to chowing down at the BU-ffet trough...perhaps. I eat out so often and there are so many choices in Chicago that it takes something special for me to even consider going someplace twice. I'll go back to the Cafe for both the food and the friendly service. Pricey? Perhaps, but if you work hard and can afford it, you owe it to yourself to try this place. Don't let some of the earlier negative reviews discourage you. The other thing I really liked about this place - I could actually hear the people I was with. I ate at another "in" restaurant Thursday night with minimalist decor. The sound bounced off the walls so much, I had to lean half way over the table to hear the people I was with. This was nice.
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I must add my impressions...
By StJames from Logan Square, IL, July 26, 2007
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I must add my impressions about this restaurant. the space is small and airy and luxurious befitting the hotel. the waitstaff is excellent. the food is authentically French, well-prepared and presented in a beautiful manner. of course it is pricey but i would make this my first choice for French fare in this neighborhood. btw, i made the res via OpenTable and since we were their first online res we were treated to special VIP starters and a tray of mini desserts - very thoughtful.
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The following scores represent the average rating submitted by 34 users:
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