The Far Northwest Suburban country inn hosts one of Chicago's nicest French restaurants, but its distance from the city and high, high prices (entrees range from $18 at the lowest to $35 at the highest) keep the crowds from utterly overwhelming it. Founded in 1976 by a Vichy native, Chef Bernard Cretier (once the personal chef of former French Secretary of State General Billotte), the restaurant doubles as an art gallery, displaying the works of French artist Gerard Puvis. Puvis specializes in posters made with foils from wine and champagne bottles.

The menu includes escargot, lobster and clam bisque, duck breast in green pepper sauce, sea scallops in lobster sauce, braised lamb shanks and various desserts.

Average cost: $21-$30