No one brings comfort and style together like the French. Granted you're not already staying at the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, don't be shy to step in to the hotel's bar, Le Bar, just around the corner. Chicago's prominent French hotel sports the best selection of cognac, brandy and wines from the old country with a seasonal cocktail menu that features specialty drinks for the quintessential French buff.

Start with the Amelie: Smooth Grand Marnier, bold with gin, cooled with a splash of St. Germain and sweetened with rose water. Or try the staff recommended sweetly herbal Rosemary cocktail, a Plymouth gin mixed with freshly squeezed lime juice and syrup garnished with hand pressed rosemary (both cocktails run $12). Or if you prefer a Parisian 19th century classic, a nice glass of Sazerac should cool your senses.

And what would a French outing be without a little treat like the celebrated crème brulee or a dark chocolate ganache cake to hit the spot? Priced at $7-9, you couldn't go wrong with the choices. Whether you're staying at the hotel, catching up with the latest Le Monde, or just here for a drink, you can't get closer to France from downtown Chicago.

Centerstage Reviewer: Beatrice Smigasiewicz