Cyrano's Bistrot & Wine Bar, Chicago

Famous Frenchman-turned-fictional-hero Cyrano de Bergerac and Chef Didier Durand probably don't share a passion for swordplay. They do, however, share at least two other things in common: a hometown and a poetic soul. After training in France, a young Durand moved to Chicago and bounced around its culinary scene, all the while preparing for his finest recipe yet—his own restaurant. In 1996, he opened its doors and christened it after his countryman, unveiling the rustic River North eatery first known as Cyrano's Bistrot & Wine Bar and now known as Cyrano's Farm Kitchen. In 2014, he celebrates 18 years of being in business as well as a mention in the Michelin Guide Chicago 2014.

This casual bistro, operating under the motto that good food makes people happy, showcases Durand's original cuisine while conjuring his memories of pastoral France, amid the idyllic trees and birds who sang Rimbaud poems from the leaves. Exposed-brick walls and reclaimed timber accents lend the space its authentic country charm, while the seasonal menu features American-inspired French dishes such as braised ratatouille, cedar plank salmon, and coffee-rubbed Amish chicken. Almost every dish needs a proper wine pairing, so sommelier Jamie Pellar—also Durand's wife—curates a list of hand-picked wines from around the world—including Durand's home region, where she often travels.