Mark Soehn
We had an incredible dining experience at Petite Vie Brasserie in Western Springs last night. We had the opportunity to sit at the chef’s table, giving us a front-row seat to all the action in the kitchen. Watching the chefs create each dish with such precision and passion made the night even more special. The food and atmosphere — exceptional. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a memorable night out!
… moreLiz M
I’ll lead with the good stuff. The service was impeccable, from the way we were greeted to the way we were sent off. There was not a single moment where we felt unattended to.
I was also very impressed with their NA selection. Try the Odd Bird Sparkling Rosé! It’s perfect.
The Duck Confit was cooked exactly the way it should be, melted in my mouth, and I would go back just for that.
Now for the not so good news. Everything else we ate was just okay. Across the board, the dishes needed more of a punch. They all needed salt, acid, and heat. The fat was there, but with nothing to cut through it, it just sat on your tongue and made the dishes very “one note.”
Overall, I expected much more flavor and proper execution from a restaurant like this. We didn’t try dessert, because I wasn’t willing to pay $15 for the possibility of being disappointed again.
… moreRebekah Eisner
Had a lovely Valentine’s Day brunch here! No notes! everything was absolutely phenomenal. The baguette was one of the best I’ve had. Incredible jam and butter to go with it If I had so say something the soup could’ve used more salt but I could’ve just asked and they’d happily bring more
… moreMatthew
This is a very good restaurant.
A little bit of a splurge for us, but we go a few times a year and always feel like it is worth the extra money.
My only criticism is that the acidity in many of the dishes I’ve tried is too forward by just a little bit.
The service is always very good, as it should be. Sadly, we’ve come to expect mediocre/poor service even at nice restaurants, but have never been disappointed here. They are friendly/knowledgeable/professional.
Kudos to the service staff.
Next time I’m leaving room for dessert.
Also, the cocktails we’ve tried are very impressive. Great job.
I’m really glad I don’t have to drive downtown to have such a great dining experience.
Keep up the good work.
… moreLoren Marie
Flew in from San Antonio and met dear friends here for dinner. It was FABULOUS! Excellent French cuisine with a definite flare. A lot of savory/sweet dishes. Phenomenal service and everything we tried and tasted (which was A LOT!) was so delicious! The chefs are so talented and deserving of the highest praises! Fun and unique vibe. Don’t sleep on this French bistro-esque restaurant! Thank you Petite Vie for such a delicious and welcoming experience with friends!
… moreTempe Thomas
This plaaaaaace OMGGGGGG We had the mushroom tart and gnocchi for apps, I had the bouillabaisse, and we got a crapton of dessert my personal favorite were the fruit tart (cherry with plum sauce) and the nougat glacé though honestly the profiteroles, soufflé, and crème brûlée were also stellar. The table next to us raved about their blueberry sorbet which I’ll have to try next time Chefs Paul (savory) and Angelyne (sweet) are KILLING. IT.
… moreDavid Irwin
Amazing! One of the top restaurants in the Chicago area. The food, presentation, service, atmosphere, simple, elegantly casual, fantastic vibe. Loved it. I mean, taking a simple baguette and turning it into a culinary delight (pairs excellent with their old fashioned), something that only Paul Verant could bring to life. Get to this restaurant. It is the best. Thank you Petite Vie team.
… moreLaura Souza
Amazing food!!! The atmosphere was wonderful as well although a bit too loud. Phenomenal wine list and the sommelier was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Extremely attentive staff.
This may be the best restaurant in the western suburbs.
Must try: the escargot.
… moreChrono
Petite Vie in Western Springs is a charming French brasserie that captures the essence of Parisian dining with an effortless elegance and warmth. Nestled at 909 N Burlington Ave, this spot by acclaimed Chef Paul Virant welcomes you with its cozy ambiance, featuring classic bistro decor and the inviting scent of fresh baguettes and herbs wafting from the kitchen. I began with the escargots en persillade, tender snails bathed in a garlicky butter sauce that was simply divine, followed by the steak frites—perfectly seared hanger steak with crispy fries that transported me straight to France. The menu’s focus on seasonal, locally inspired ingredients shines through in every bite, making it a standout for anyone craving authentic yet innovative Gallic fare.
What truly earns Petite Vie its five-star glow is the exceptional service and thoughtful details that elevate the entire experience. The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, offering spot-on wine pairings from their impressive selection, like a crisp Burgundy that complemented my coq au vin flawlessly. Desserts, such as the crème brûlée with its perfectly caramelized top, provide a sweet finale that’s hard to resist. Whether for a casual happy hour or a special brunch, this brasserie delivers joy in every visit—affordable, generous portions, and a vibe that feels like a petite slice of la vie en rose. Five stars without hesitation!
… moreHappyAutumn
We were visiting Chicago, and I set out on a mission to find a restaurant that served an authentic Chocolate Souffle (not lava cake types, etc.) Boy did this restaurant deliver! We had not made a reservation so we could sit at a bar type spot inside or outside on the patio. The weather was wonderful, so we sat outside. We enjoyed seeing the trains come and go.
I ordered the duck, and while it was delicious, I didn’t care for the sides. I would try another entree if we were near this town again. My husband ordered a sandwich and fries which were delicious.
When in Chicago, I would definitely dine here again, and of course, I’d get the Chocolate Souffle again (and again)!
… more