Hemingway's Bistro gets my go to rating for fresh seafood with french flair. Located within a mid rise a block from Lake street, their space is cozy and unique. The restaurant and bar scream french bistro while the table setting and menu are elevated. We came here for seafood and standard french cuisine was not disappointing. A daily board menu greet guests upon entering and the staff was gratious to have us. Today's board included mushroom bisque, halibut, well point oysters and a mango souffle...We opted for two of the four specials and they were just the right amount of food. Oysters on the half shell for starters, entrees of Halibut with fingerling potatoes, mushrooms and roasted brussel sprouts and lamb shank with spaetzle and broccolini. Service was impeccable, throughout our meal with a very attentive wait staff. Wine bottles are a bit pricey with an average of $50, but worth the splurge. We'll be back for the souffle and pumpkin donut as we did not make room for dessert. Hemingway's Bistro is family friendly and a most welcoming restaurant.

OMG I WANT TO EAT HERE EVERYDAY!!!! Absolutely incredible food! Wonderful service! Fantastic drinks! Everything was perfect. Definitely coming back

What an absolute delight! Lunch was delicious, the aviation cocktail a sure hit, and service was friendly and professional. Try the herb crusted whitefish, you won't be disappointed.

A bit pricey, but well worth it for a once in a while treat. It's gorgeous, the food amazing, and the menu still flexible, the staff was super friendly, but busy as bees rushing around. Could use some more staff members, but the staff today were super sweet and were above and beyond despite juggling more than they should have to. Back to the food and, I repeat myself, it was delicious!! The atmosphere was very relaxed and it's a well built and even better designed place. Had a great time here, and certainly suggest you pay it a visit, as well as the Hemingway Birthplace House just up the block, to which they owe their namesake.

Walked in and seated immediately. Friendly staff, beautiful restaurant. Excellent food. Would be good for a romantic date night.

I've lived in the general area of Oak Park for 20 years, and this place has been on my radar for a bit. Why didn't I go before? I understood that it was a bit fancy, and I'm not a fancy guy. However, I was curious, so when I looked up "Easter brunch " and found this place was offering, I decided to give it a shot It was $46 for a single entrée and a buffet, plus a complimentary drink. Sounded a tad pricey, but I assumed that the buffet would be impressive. How wrong I was... I arrived on time with my party of three. We were seated promptly and offered drinks. I opted for a mimosa and went to the buffet while I waited for my "main meal" When I got to the buffet, I looked for the rest of it. The buffet was absolutely pathetic. I've literally had more impressive FREE buffets offered at hotels I've stayed at. Three types of cheese (unsliced), an unimpressive selection of bagels, a single type of salad, and a selection store bought desserts When my meal arrived, (gruyere sandwich) it was good, but nothing special. When I got the bill, I was shocked. Almost $200 for three people, and a good part of that was for the additional drinks. I knew that only the first drink was complementary, but I thought that the additional ones would be $8-10 tops, but they were $16!!! For cheap champagne and juice! I could have gotten a proper cocktail for that price. Yes, it's mostly my fault for assuming, but still All in all, if I paid $25 at my local corner Cafe, I'd be satisfied. As it is, I was incredibly disappointed and even a little angry If you want a proper brunch, go to Fogo de Chao. The price for brunch is the same ($46) and you have a MUCH larger selection at the buffet, MUCH higher quality food, and a MUCH nicer atmosphere, and much better atmosphere

Let me start with service, because it was the best part! The service is impeccable! Our server was knowledgeable and really nice! No complains at all! Perfect! The restaurant has a good location but no parking. It is ok because you can always find a spot on the street. Food was ok. My dish was average ( chicken salad) but my friend’s dish was awesome! I tried it and it was so savory and tasty! Delicious! She ordered some crepes (even though it doesn’t look like classic crepes, you will see the photo). All in all I think this place needs some renovation, but- maybe it is the goal to keep place like this, a little bit old fashioned, I don’t know🤷‍♀️

Great service! Awesome food. This has been one of my favorite placed for good dining since I moved to Oak Park more than 20 years ago. Last night, the steak fries was perfect - medium was truly medium! And the lobster salad, delightful - nice chunks of lobster, over generous slices of mandarin orange and grapefruit, all coming together nicely. Wonderful!

Outstanding.....

In summary: Hemingway will roll over in his grave for his name being used like this. - We waited 30 mins after we finished our appetizers (45 mins after we ordered) for our overcooked, yet cold fries, cold fish, untoasted bun that became soggy with wet lettuce. And tiny lobster toast which came at the same time was burnt on the bottom. Versus, a mid-aged couple who came AFTER us got a good service from the same server, got their food in timely manner, and most importantly, got their food hot. By the time they were done with their food, and was ready for their check, we got our cold, soggy, burnt food. When we asked to speak to the manager to address this issue, conveniently, all the managers were gone for the day.

Great food and atmosphere, and the service is top notch. Came in with a couple friends and family and didn't regret it one bit. They were also very accommodating for my son's severe allergies to dairy, eggs, and nuts. Definitely recommend; I know I'll be returning.

Food is almost always tasty but the service is equally slow.

Great food.

Great food!

From the first moment you come to this place they give you a comfortable feeling. Very comfortable team, it is a kind restaurant to to go out with buddies or with your date. enjoyable cuisine, professional chef de cuisine, honest cost and professional service. Warmly recommended.

Love this place. Best in Oak Park for sure. A favorite in entire Chicagoland. Innovative menu, great food and service and very reasonable prices.

Just down the street from Hemingway's birthplace, you can find this bistro. It has a pretty French style atmosphere and everything on the menu looks delicious, It was hard to narrow down what to choose! I did finally choose and had the crepes Gratinée, with French ham, Guyére cheese, and asparagus with a glass of house champagne. It was delicious! You're also served warm French baguette with butter. The atmosphere was enhanced with French and Cuban music, tablecloths, and Valentine's Day decorations. We really had a relaxing enjoyable lunch! We were there on a Monday at 2:30 for a late lunch, which is served until 3:00. There was free street parking out front. We decided upon this restaurant and found it on a list I picked up at the gift shop of the Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio tour. My lunch companions also enjoyed their food and we highly recommend it.

First time in and I thought from the reviews it was going to be good. It was the complete opposite. Worst food I've had in awhile. The fish smelled horrible. We ordered mussels and they definitely were not the greatest. How the shell was open made me wonder if they were cooked properly. My friend ordered a hamburger and it was beyond bland. The fries were disgusting. My omelette was no where near good. We didn't even finish any of the food

Great family date night. Perfectly cooked duck and steak. Sides were unparalleled. Dessert was absolutely gourmet. Our waiter was perfectly on time with every move. I can't think of a better place to recommend. Parking was a little unusual. It appears to be a mansion in converted into a restaurant. You may not expect it to be in the neighborhood while driving. Ten out of five stars ⭐✨🤩

A place you will not want to miss. A plus plus for service ,food, wine, cocktails, dessert. Try the soufflé, It’s out of this world. The beef Wellington was perfectly cooked and delicious. Anna our server treated us like a queen. She was the best. Love to go again And I’d fly to Chicago just to have that wonderful experience again. I would eat there everyday.

My friend and I needed to meet for lunch and neither of us live in Oak Park. My friend found this restaurant when we were searching places to eat and shop. They have a Sunday brunch but we just ordered crepes,that were delicious!!! They had a jazz singer present for the entire time we were there. She even sang happy birthday to a young girl sitting next to us. I didn't know that when my friend made reservations, she told them it was my birthday also. The jazz singer was back and my friend and I shared a small slice of cake Will definitely return. Everything was delicious, the staff was very friendly, and loved the vibe!!!!

Best dinner in Oak Park, love the ambience, the incredible French architecture and decoration. We ordered Beef Wellington and fish for dinner. Absolutely wonderful evening. Staffs are friendly, professional and attentive service. Thank you Mia and everyone. Highly recommend and love to be back 🌸❤️🍀.

I brought a friend with me today. One thing I like about this Bistro is that the food and service is excellent, but without the pretentious airs commonly associated with French dining. The walleye pike special today was amazing. But so were the appetizers we shared: crab cake and salmon on a potato pancake. My friend loved the chicken sandwich!!! Our server was terrific. He suggested the perfect crisp summer wine to go with our meal and with the summer solstice. It was a wonderful lunch. Thank you.

Romantic little hideaway. Awesome food. Good service.

I had the pleasure of celebrating my 45th birthday at Hemmingway’s Bistro with 30 of my friends and family with a Breakfast at Tiffany’s themed brunch. I must say that it was a truly memorable experience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm smiles and a personalized touch. The staff had prepared a customized breakfast menu specifically for my themed birthday celebration. It was a delightful surprise to see my name and occasion on the menu. This thoughtful gesture set the tone for a wonderful morning celebration. The menu that my guests were able to choose from at Hemmingway’s Bistro offered a diverse selection of dishes. One standout dish was the Herb Crusted White Fish. The saute’ spinach, pommes puree & lemon caper sauce created a harmonious and unforgettable taste. The service throughout the brunch was impeccable. Thomas catered to our every need, ensuring that our glasses were never empty and that we had everything we desired. He was attentive, friendly, and made us feel like valued guests. Indeed, Thomas insured that my event was seamless and enjoyable. What made my birthday brunch even more memorable was the presence of live jazz music. Imagine my surprise and joy when they performed a rendition of “Moon River” especially for my themed birthday event. It was a touching moment that added an extra layer of magic to the celebration. Overall, my experience at Hemmingway’s Bistro was exceptional It surpassed m expectations in terms of ambiance, service, and most importantly the outstanding culinary creations. I highly recommend visiting Hemmingway’s Bistro. Whether it is a special occasion or a casual brunch, this restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The shrimp cocktail was delicious. The shrimp were all jumbo. 6 shrimp. If you like escargot, they make it for you there-slight hint of Pernod. Plenty of garlic and herbs. Not the best I've ever had but it was a decent attempt. The burger was definitely dreadful being overdone the bun was dry. The French fries were cold, soggy and tasted like frozen fries heated in an oven left out and then reheated in an attempt to save them. Awful for a restaurant of this caliper. The bartender knows how to make a very dry martini. I'd go back to try an entree. The blackened salmon sandwich was decent. But, alas, the same dreadful fries were served with it. Don't have the fries at lunch.

Our first time visiting, the food was amazing. Great service as well! The soufflé is a must!! Thank you Lucia for having us!

I love this place. The food is always well presented and flavorful. The server is attentive and knowledgeable. He went the extra mile to get me the dessert I wanted when they ran out on the buffet. I reduced the rating by one star on the atmosphere because of the noise. There were several large parties of people who were enjoying celebrations. People were talking loudly across the table, which is to be expected. However, it made it difficult for my husband to hear.

Cute place the food was yummy & service, was great 👍🏼 French restaurant.

A wonderful, relaxed dining experience with live jazz in the background. We had white fish and halibut dishes at our table. All entrees were outstanding. We had a memorable evening cared for by a knowledgeable, attentive staff. Kudos to Juan and all the wait staff.

I came with a group for a late lunch. Service was attentive. Everyone seemed happy with their meals, including quiches, a burger, and salmon nicoise. Outdoor seating would've been lovely, but the dining room was great.

Great food, service and ambiance

Hemingway's Bistro is a little Gem tucked away in Oak Park. I found the food to be high quality and cooked to perfection. A French style of cooking with flavors of butter and fats. Creating a symphony of flavor that does not mask what the chef is cooking. The baked imported Brei with Apricots and Honey was on point. The Fruit and honey was balanced with a quality Brie cheese. I would highly recommend it if you are a fan of Brei cheese. My entree was the New York Steak au Poivre. The meat was cooked to my order request. What stands out for me in a quality restaurant are the vegetables. Are they cooked but not soggy? Are they fresh and flavorful? The pommes au gratin was Broiled just right. Having a whole tomato cooked with crisp breadcrumbs combined with oil and spice is a difficult culinary task. Too much heat and the tomato is mushy, too little and a raw tough lump below the breadcrumbs. The pommes au gratin here was cooked just right. Soft enough to cut with minimal pressure and an au gratin that was crispy but, not dry. Just the right amount of oil and spices. Creating a great flavor that complemented a fresh tomato. The service is quite good and on par for a quality restaurant. Since I visited during the Pandemic the restaurant was observing social distancing with minimal tables and a smaller wait staff. There was a place where there may have been a small club inside but, it was closed. There is a full service bar. I selected an Espresso Martini that was again keeping with the restaurant's theme. Flavorful and full to the glass rim. After enjoying the warm bread, appetizer, entree and drink I had no room for dessert. Perhaps on my next visit I will skip the appetizer to try the dessert menu and an aperitif.

This food is amazing! We ordered takeout from here twice in one week because it was that good! We have only ordered take out and tried something different each time and everything is so good and fresh!

My ABSOLUTELY “favorite” place in the NEAR Western ‘burbs worth the 45 min drive! My table was by the front OPEN window on a warm afternoon. Gorgeous fresh tasty food with attentive service by wait staff, bartender, AND ever-present owners including kitchen chef! Especially LOVE the Beef Wellington & layered AuGratin, savory Coq Au Vin, too!

Small little restraunt in lower level of quaint hotel. Set among some historic architecture of oak Park. Service wasn't bad but a little slow. Food and ambience was excellent. We had a few breakfast/lunch sandwiches. Good selection of drinks and desserts.

Very cozy and quaint! Food was wonderful and very friendly service.

The food was amazing and I felt completely safe. The service was excellent.

This restaurant is my preferred one. I go to many restaurants but to this restaurant I go the most. The team is very professional and the cuisine they serve is so good. I never decline to have a decent dinner in this restaurant. Highly recommended.

Good food but terrible service. Waited 15 minutes with a reservation. Young waiter then left us seated for another15 minutes before asking for our drink order. At that point, we also ordered appetizers and entrees . My husband and I had our food finished before my son got his entree and appetizer. We asked for more bread for my son and never got it

The food is very good; the ambiance is also very gracious and beautiful. I only saw 2 guys serving & they had to go outside too. They seemed understaffed, and thus the service suffered; but this is understandable in this age of Covid-19. I hope they survive and get back to their normal 5-star selves.

Charming old world restaurant. The appetizers were delicious --- mussels, lump crab cake and super fresh smoked salmon. The entrees however we're just okay. None were hot all were room temp. Not sure if that's because of slow service or the kitchen pre makes plates and allow them to sit until someone orders. Nevertheless, good restaurant.

Get atmosphere and the food is just so wonderful!! The service is impeccable... a home run!!

I ordered dinner and dessert as a gift for my dad and he was NOT PLEASED with the meal at all! He had the Lamb Chops & a small salad. No flavor at all, he said there was no seasoning on the meat or the vegetables. The $9 small salad a couple of leaves of lettuce with 1/2 slice of a cucumber and 3 slivers of graded carrots and 3 wedges of tomatoes (a dinner roll was not included with the dinner)The Crème Brûlée again no flavor. We certainly will NOT recommend this expensive restaurant to anyone. I ordered from this restaurant because of the reviews but I guess it was from the owner’s family. **Very Disappointed!!**

Excellent food.

The food was delicious and had a nice experience with my daughter.

charming place, delicious traditional old world American. understaffed like another reviewer said, possibly due to Covid but otherwise maintaining great service and food

This restaurant is definitely a great find and definitely worth the short trip out to Oak Park. As soon as one walks in, there is definitely a strong feeling of being in a French Bistro. Everything from the music to the decor is French, and leads to a very cultural feeling for the diner. The service is excellent, and the waitstaff is very attentive. The food itself is one thing that had a small area for improvement. The bottle of wine we initially wanted wasn't available (although the alternative Bordeaux was excellent). Also, the potatoes au gratin weren't available as a side order to my main course. The dessert selection was excellent. Overall, I'd say this is a great restaurant that I will be happy to return to.

Always out standing food and service!!!

Wonderful food and great pairings

Spectacular spot. I've dined here numerous times and the food has always been wonderful. It has become one of my favorite spots. Last night I ordered delivery. The whitefish with blanc du blanc sauce and capers was superb. The Creme Brule with rasberry sauce mouthwatering. The dining room is warm and inviting, service spot on. For a special event there or for one at home, give them a try. You will not be disappointed.

Very relaxed atmosphere and the staff are pleasant and efficient.

Fabulous carry-out dinner! Thank you!

This restaurant is my first choice site. Of all restaurants I know I prefere it most. I never miss an opportunity to go to visit this restaurant. everytime I want to go to a good lunch, this restaurant comes instantly to my head. superb and all sorts of food and a large list of dishes.well mannered team, and agreeable vibes. Not less important, the price is modest. I tell about this place with no doubt.

Idk what this bartenders deal is. But iv probably called her 10 time and she’s completely ignored me. Wings are not all flats. And I just don’t like the vibe up in here. Won’t be coming back.

The customer service is consistently efficient, excellent ambience, very friendly staff members. Will return here again when I get here.

Staff is amazing, food is delicious, and it has a great ambient. They have several options for Sunday brunch and live music! Definitely stop by when you can

Always great food and service

Amazing service, super friendly and accommodating service personnel. Frank, Danielle and the whole staff knocked it out of the park. I would recommend it to anyone. Wish I was there now!

Food was quite tasty but a bit pricy for what you get.

Excellent service from Frank, excellent food, enjoyable surroundings.

This place never fails to deliver. They serve fresh dishes for convenient prices, there is no waiting time even when the spot is loaded.