Francois Frankie Le Carousel Bar
Sarah Haley · 202 Google reviewsFrancois Frankie Le Carousel Bar — honest bar & grill in Loop. The space has a modern, polished edge. Worth ordering a drink, because the bar holds its own. "Every bite was tender, juicy, and seasoned just right" — Donte Nixon [$$]
What 310 diners keep saying
What 310 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“A very slow moving rotating bar that would take you time to notice it as it moves smoothly and slowly”
“Hosted an event here and it was incredible! The carousel bar TRULY moves. Very cool! Hospitality was incredible and amazing vibe and atmosphere. Definitely returning!”
“Amazing all around! The food is amazing, the atmosphere is great, and our server Gustavo was so warm and wonderful! The beef bourguinon was so tender I didn’t need a knife and the French shepherd’s pie was succulent. Already planning when to go back!”
“Lived in the city for a decade and had no idea about this place. Took my best friend for Valentine’s Day, and had an absolutely lovely experience! Intimate, whimsical, and most importantly, delicious food.”
“Had an absolutely wonderful dinner on a quiet Monday night here. I sat at the rotating bar and the bartender hit that the perfect mix of being attentive while giving me space. There's a bar menu and full menu - both are available at the bar. Highly recommend getting the bone marrow appetizer, and then doing the bone marrow shot (green chartreuse, at the recommendation of the bartender).”
“I looove this place, sitting at the rotating bar is so fun and the service was great. Francisco made me a custom drink and it was exactly what i was craving. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was a sweet escape from the chaos of downtown.”
“Lunch at Francois Frankie Le Carousel Bar was outstanding. I ordered the Amish chicken, and from the first bite, it was a clear 10 out of 10. The plate looked great, but the taste made it unforgettable. The chicken had a perfect char that locked in the juices and gave it a deep, smoky flavor. Every bite was tender, juicy, and seasoned just right. The au jus and chicken fat soaked into the fries, turning them into something special. Each fry picked up that rich flavor, and the fresh rosemary added a clean, aromatic touch that balanced the dish. The sauces were simple but well chosen. The creamy dip complemented the chicken’s seasoning, and the fries stayed crisp even under all that flavor. Everything on the plate worked together without feeling heavy. The setting was calm and refined, with service that matched the quality of the food. I liked it so much I went back and picked up four more orders for friends who appreciate good food. Overall: 10 out of 10. Juicy chicken, crisp fries, and real flavor. Francois Frankie nailed it for lunch.”
“Such a charming restaurant in the midst of the busy downtown scene. We only came in for drinks this time but can't wait to come back for dinner because everything looked really great. The carousel/bar DOES move but just very slowly. We didn't even realize it at first until we realized that we had, in fact, moved and were facing a different direction after a little while. Only the bar and chairs move while the interior of the bar remains in place. I think it makes one full rotation per hour. So, if you come to watch one of the games on TV and sit with a good view of it, keep in mind you won't always be in the same spot you sat. :)”
“Honestly the best restaurant I've found in Chicago.... a block off where I was going but wow was I impressed. Had the shrimp and oysters as an appetizer. Then I had the streak Diane. Can you get three bites of steak that are like heaven in Chicago. Yup found it. The staff is amazing, the vibes are amazing, and they have a carousel bar 🤯. Will make an early trip back to Chicago for this experience.”
“The Idea of rotating slowly while drinking is actually quite unique. It takes 2 drinks to get back to where you started”
“It’s not often that you are left with an experience that moves you to day dream right after your meal. The burger is worth the hype, little more pink on the meat would have been welcomed but didn’t take away from the flavor. Best French fries I’ve had all year, trust me I live for cheeseburgers and French fries. Overall couldn’t be more greatful for the experience. 11 out of 10 would recommend. Thank you to Michael and his team for taking care of us.”
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