Coquette Chicago is a culinary gem nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, offering an extraordinary dining experience that masterfully blends Southern charm with contemporary Midwestern influences. The restaurant’s menu reflects a passionate commitment to seasonal ingredients and innovative preparations, captivating guests with every dish.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Coquette’s carefully curated offerings promise a memorable journey through bold flavors and artful presentations. Each plate is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate freshness and creativity, making it a beloved spot among food enthusiasts.
From the moment you sit down, the menu invites exploration with a diverse range of options that cater to various palates. The restaurant’s dedication to quality is evident in every course, from vibrant appetizers to indulgent desserts.
With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Coquette Chicago’s menu is not just a list of dishes but a narrative of culinary passion and expertise.
Embarking on a gastronomic adventure here means indulging in dishes that highlight local produce, innovative techniques, and a harmonious balance of flavors. The menu is designed to accommodate both adventurous eaters and those seeking comforting, familiar tastes elevated to new heights.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Prelude
The appetizer section at Coquette Chicago sets the tone for an exceptional meal. These starters are crafted to awaken the senses and prepare diners for the courses ahead.
Expect a blend of textures and tastes, with fresh ingredients presented in unique ways.
Among the standout offerings, the fried green tomatoes are a must-try, providing a crispy exterior paired with a tangy, creamy remoulade. The use of heirloom tomatoes adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to this Southern classic.
Other appetizers include the shrimp and grits croquettes, which fuse creamy comfort with crunchy bites, and the roasted beet salad, artfully combining earthiness with bright citrus notes. The menu frequently changes to highlight seasonal produce, ensuring that each visit offers new flavors to discover.
Signature Starters
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Served with housemade remoulade and pickled jalapeños
- Shrimp and Grits Croquettes: Accompanied by spicy aioli and microgreens
- Roasted Beet Salad: With citrus vinaigrette, goat cheese, and toasted pecans
“The appetizers at Coquette are a perfect balance of tradition and innovation—each bite tells a story.” – Local Food Critic
Entrées: Crafting the Main Event
The entrée selection at Coquette Chicago showcases the kitchen’s skill in marrying bold flavors with elegant presentation. These dishes are designed to satisfy and impress, featuring a range of proteins and vegetarian options that emphasize freshness and creativity.
One of the highlights is the pan-seared duck breast, which is paired with a cherry gastrique and creamy polenta. This dish exemplifies the restaurant’s approach: familiar ingredients elevated through technique and complementary flavors.
Another favorite is the blackened catfish, served alongside sautéed greens and a spicy corn relish, bringing a taste of Southern coastal cuisine to the Midwest. Vegetarian guests are well-catered for with options like the wild mushroom risotto, rich with umami and finished with truffle oil.
Entrée Varieties
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Pan-Seared Duck Breast | Duck, cherry gastrique, polenta | Rich, sweet, creamy |
| Blackened Catfish | Catfish, sautéed greens, corn relish | Spicy, smoky, fresh |
| Wild Mushroom Risotto | Arborio rice, wild mushrooms, truffle oil | Earthy, creamy, aromatic |
Each entrée is thoughtfully complemented by seasonal vegetables and housemade sauces that enhance the natural flavors of the core ingredients. The balance of textures and tastes in every entrée ensures a fulfilling dining experience.
Sides: Complementing Every Plate
Coquette Chicago’s sides are more than just accompaniments—they are integral components that complete each dish. The restaurant’s commitment to seasonal and local ingredients shines through in this section of the menu.
Classic Southern staples like collard greens and mashed sweet potatoes receive a refined treatment, with subtle seasoning and creative garnishes. For those seeking something lighter, the menu offers options such as charred Brussels sprouts with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Collard Greens: Slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks and garlic
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg
- Charred Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in citrus vinaigrette and toasted almonds
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasonal medley with fresh herbs
The sides are designed to be shared or enjoyed individually, providing versatile options for diners. Their robust flavors and thoughtful preparation ensure they stand out on their own while enhancing the main dishes.
“Great sides don’t just fill the plate—they elevate the entire meal, and Coquette delivers on this perfectly.” – Culinary Enthusiast
Desserts: The Sweet Finale
Desserts at Coquette Chicago are a celebration of indulgence and craftsmanship. The pastry team combines classic Southern desserts with contemporary twists, creating sweet endings that linger in memory.
Signature desserts include the bourbon pecan pie, featuring a flaky crust and a rich, nutty filling with a subtle kick. The buttermilk panna cotta is another highlight, offering a silky texture balanced by fresh berries and a lemon glaze.
For those who prefer chocolate, the bittersweet chocolate tart is a decadent choice, complemented by a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Popular Dessert Choices
- Bourbon Pecan Pie: Classic with a modern, boozy twist
- Buttermilk Panna Cotta: Silky and smooth with seasonal fruit
- Bittersweet Chocolate Tart: Rich, intense chocolate flavor
Each dessert is crafted to provide a satisfying conclusion to the meal, balancing sweetness and texture with finesse. The menu often rotates dessert options to incorporate seasonal ingredients and creative inspirations.
Beverages: Crafted to Complement
The beverage menu at Coquette Chicago is designed to enhance the dining experience through thoughtfully selected wines, craft cocktails, and local beers. The bar program emphasizes balance and harmony with the food offerings.
Signature cocktails are crafted using fresh, seasonal ingredients and housemade infusions. The “Coquette Old Fashioned” is a popular pick, featuring a smooth bourbon base with hints of orange and bitters.
Wine selections range from bold reds to crisp whites, carefully curated to pair well with the diverse flavors of the menu. For beer lovers, the restaurant offers a rotating selection of local craft brews that highlight Chicago’s vibrant beer scene.
Drink Highlights
| Drink | Type | Tasting Notes |
| Coquette Old Fashioned | Cocktail | Bourbon, orange, bitters, slightly sweet |
| Pinot Noir | Red Wine | Light-bodied, fruity, smooth tannins |
| Local IPA | Beer | Hoppy, citrusy, medium bitterness |
“Each sip at Coquette is a perfect partner to the food, elevating every bite with careful pairing.” – Beverage Director
Brunch Offerings: Morning Delights
Coquette Chicago’s brunch menu is a weekend favorite, combining classic Southern breakfast items with innovative twists. The selection is designed to satisfy both sweet and savory cravings with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Signature dishes include the chicken and waffles, featuring crispy fried chicken atop fluffy waffles drizzled with maple syrup and hot honey. Another popular choice is the shrimp and grits bowl, offering a hearty, flavorful start to the day.
The brunch menu also embraces lighter options such as the avocado toast with heirloom tomatoes and a poached egg, perfect for those seeking a balanced meal.
- Chicken and Waffles: Crispy, sweet, and spicy
- Shrimp and Grits Bowl: Creamy grits, seasoned shrimp, and scallions
- Avocado Toast: Fresh avocado, heirloom tomatoes, and poached egg
- Seasonal Fruit Parfait: Greek yogurt, local honey, and granola
The brunch atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, making it an ideal spot for gatherings or a casual meal. Seasonal cocktails like mimosas and Bloody Marys round out the experience, providing refreshing complements to the menu.
Seasonal and Special Menus
Coquette Chicago continually evolves its menu to reflect the changing seasons and special occasions. This commitment ensures that diners always encounter fresh, exciting dishes that celebrate the best ingredients available.
Seasonal menus highlight local farmers and purveyors, showcasing produce and products at their peak. Special holiday menus often include exclusive items and multi-course tasting experiences designed to elevate festive celebrations.
The restaurant also offers chef’s tasting menus on select nights, providing a curated journey through the kitchen’s most innovative creations and seasonal highlights.
Seasonal Menu Features
- Spring: Asparagus, ramps, and fresh peas
- Summer: Stone fruits, tomatoes, and sweet corn
- Fall: Squash, mushrooms, and root vegetables
- Winter: Hearty greens, citrus, and preserved ingredients
“Seasonal menus keep the dining experience at Coquette dynamic and deeply connected to the local landscape.” – Executive Chef
Conclusion
Coquette Chicago’s menu is a testament to culinary artistry, where each dish is thoughtfully composed to celebrate seasonality, locality, and bold flavors. The restaurant seamlessly combines Southern influences with modern techniques, creating a unique and memorable dining experience.
From the appetizers that awaken the palate to the indulgent desserts that provide a perfect finish, every element is crafted with care and creativity.
The diverse menu offerings cater to a broad range of tastes and preferences, ensuring that each visit reveals something new and exciting. Whether it’s a casual brunch, a special celebration, or an intimate dinner, Coquette Chicago stands out as a destination for those seeking inspired cuisine paired with attentive service.
The dedication to seasonal ingredients, paired with a well-curated beverage program, elevates this establishment to a true culinary landmark in Chicago’s vibrant scene.
Ultimately, Coquette Chicago invites diners to savor the rich tapestry of flavors, textures, and traditions that define its menu. It’s a place where passion meets precision, making every meal an unforgettable experience worth returning to time and again.
