Dear Margaret

Where French-Canadian heritage meets Midwestern terroir, Dear Margaret Chicago transforms Chef Ryan Brosseau's childhood memories into an extraordinary culinary love letter that has captivated the city's dining scene since 2021. Born from Brosseau's devotion to his French-Canadian mémé Margaret, this intimate restaurant emerged during the pandemic as a neighborhood gem that quickly earned national recognition. The Merlin, Ontario native brings acclaimed experience from Chicago's most respected kitchens—Perennial Virant, Found, and Le Sud—to create something entirely unique. Under owner Lacey Irby's thoughtful stewardship, Dear Margaret has garnered consecutive Michelin Bib Gourmand awards (2022-2024), the 2025 Jean Banchet Award for Best Hospitality, and StarChefs Rising Star recognition for Brosseau's exceptional talent.

The cuisine celebrates French-Canadian traditions through a distinctly Midwestern lens, elevating comfort food into sophisticated artistry. Brosseau's mastery of preservation techniques, whole-animal butchery, and artisanal bread baking creates dishes that honor both heritage and seasonality. Signature offerings include heirloom tomato salad with fromage blanc and black garlic-ice wine vinegar, Lake Ontario smelt preparations, and house-made charcuterie boards featuring extensive cheese selections. The menu evolves seasonally, showcasing lighter summer fare on the charming patio while winter brings heartier preparations that warm the soul.

Classic Nanaimo bars—graham cracker crumb, cocoa powder, and walnut finished with chocolate ganache—provide the perfect sweet conclusion to this nostalgic journey. The restaurant's quaint blue façade opens into an atmosphere that genuinely evokes grandmother's kitchen—white-trim windows, framed paintings, and decorative ceilings create an immediately welcoming environment. A small back bar anchors the intimate dining room, where engaging staff deliver the award-winning hospitality that makes every guest feel like family. Wine Director Terry McNeese, a 2022 Jean Banchet Best Sommelier nominee, curates an exceptional wine and beer program that perfectly complements the French-Canadian inspired menu without the distraction of cocktails.

Dear Margaret represents more than fine dining—it's a celebration of culinary heritage, community connection, and the transformative power of honest cooking. The restaurant's commitment to Midwestern ingredients, traditional techniques, and genuine hospitality creates an experience that feels both deeply personal and professionally exceptional. Reservations at this 40-seat neighborhood treasure book quickly, particularly for weekend dinner service. The restaurant's growing reputation among Chicago's discerning diners and homesick Canadians alike makes advance planning essential for experiencing Brosseau's remarkable tribute to his mémé's enduring influence.