Chez Joël is a true French bistro set in the heart of Little Italy (there is no "little France" in Chicago). It is simple yet refined. Small romantic tables, French posters and an outdoor area set in a brick walled garden.
Why then would this be a spot to bike to for brunch? After a particularly crazy evening out, I dragged myself out of bed committed to continue this little Sunday morning project. However, by the time we got our act together, most brunch spots had already closed, and I noticed the Taylor Street bistro empty but open at 2pm.
So, terribly under dressed, we locked our bikes to a nearby signpost and gingerly wandered into the restaurant's outdoor dining (fittingly it had an Italian fashion poster on the brick wall, presumably an homage to its Little Italy location).
We gulped some water and sampled hot, fresh-baked bread with butter and jam, which was excellent.
My biking partner ordered what turned out to be a massive "Benedicte Provencal", which was a Benedict without the muffin - rather it was set on a tian of vegetables. I was assured it was quite good.
I opted for the Croque Madame, which was served with shoestring fries (which were not crispy, very tender and excellent). The Croque Madame was very good, and I would definitely order it again.
All and all, a successful second episode of Bike & Brunch.
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