We were visiting Lake Forest, and decided to have lunch at Le Colonial. This is our second visit after a long while. I would describe this restaurant as an upscale Vietnamese restaurant. The decor was great, and once you walked in, it transformed your surrounding into colonial time of Vietnam. The staffs were very friendly and patient in explaining questions. The menu clearly indicates Gluten Free and other allergens. The food overall was good. We had the glazed ribs - the meat was tender and flavorful with the glaze. The papaya salad - think of it as like a slaw - was crunchy and slightly acidic, so paired well with the ribs. We also had the spicy chicken soup. It has coconut milk, and big enough portion for two people to share. I also want to caution people that the knife skills of the chefs here was quite good - the green chili was thinly sliced that I almost mistook them as spring onions. Imagine if I actually bit into a few... :) Then, we also ordered Chicken stir fried to share. The main dish came with a bowl of jasmine rice. So, there was a variety for our lunch, and everything was flavorful. It is not an everyday Vietnamese cuisine, but it fits the bill for a special outing. read more

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Food was fantastic. Ambiance was incredible. Service was sub-par. Always amazing how critical a role the waiter plays in an overall restaurant experience. Tonight our waiter was just not friendly and was far less helpful than I would have hoped! Came here for my birthday dinner on a Thursday evening with my girlfriend and parents, and we got a really great spread of food. Despite not receiving the best advice on how much to order overall, we ended up with a great amount of food: 3 appetizers, 3 mains and a Pho. Highlights were the beet salad, clay pot chicken, and brussels! We were threatened with multiple up-charges ($16 to swap from rice to rice noodles, $14 for a chamomile tea, etc.). For a nice restaurant where we were already paying a decent penny, this seemed silly. Again, overall this could easily have been a 5 star visit... hoping I can revisit the review at some point, as the food is truly great. read more

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Le Colonial has been a favorite for 'that special evening'. Past visits have been wonderful in the main dining room. Recently with no reservation, bringing a friend for her birthday we had a lovely table in the bar with the same exceptional service as the main dining room. This weekend, I had a 'staycation' booked at the Deerpath Inn for a mother/daughter getaway. Celebrating a special occasion for my daughter I booked the reservation weeks out with a request for the main dining room And called day before to remind them. When we arrived for our reservation it was obvious the main dining room was full. We were seated in the next room, the porch. It left much to be desired. Especially how close the tables are to each other. Who ever sits in the banquette portion - you drop down and there were many polite giggles from adjoining tables to how awkward it was sliding in with mere inches between tables. If we were hoping for a celebratory intimate dinner, it did not happen on the porch. A few more palm fronds would have been helpful to hide the kitchen door with staff coming in and out constantly. Very disappointed. And if offered this choice next visit, will simply celebrate elsewhere. read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

The grilled steak au poivre and the roasted salmon were the star of the meal. The steak was tender and well seared. The gailan sauce highlighted the steak perfectly. I also really enjoyed the roasted salmon and coconut lobster broth. The coconut lobster broth complemented the salmon so well that I ended up drenching the salmon and my rice in the broth. Very well done pairing the flavors! read more

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This place is. SPECIAL. We really enjoyed our dining experience here. The combination of French and Vietnamese is not one I would think would pair so well but I was so impressed. We ordered the ribs small plate with the crispy red snapper and a few cocktails and a Viet coffee to finish off the meal. The service was fantastic and everyone was very attentive and caring along the way. The environment felt upscale but not stuffy in any way. There were a lot of people in celebrating and enjoying each others company. Highly recommend! read more

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The food here is amazing, even though I ordered through delivery! Starting with the presentation, everything was nicely wrapped up in solid containers, separated out by dish, and provided in a very sturdy bag with nice utensils. I ordered the shaking beef and garlic noodles. The balance of flavors was perfectly portioned, and even the sauces on the side were measured accurately for the foods themselves. Would highly recommend these two dishes and I will definitely make it a point to visit the restaurant in person soon. read more

I have been here multiple times in the past for a lunch as well as private events that were all held upstairs. Every single time I come here the service is incredible and the food is a true stand out. Decided to come here on a Saturday night and made reservation reservations in advance to celebrate a birthday. All the dishes as usual were absolutely incredible. Special call out to Izzy for some fantastic service !!!! In general, I do wish that they would spread out some of the tables on the main floor as they are quite closing, and you can definitely hear your neighbor and their entire conversation, even without trying to eavesdrop. The construction in downtown Lake Forest continue so be prepared. However, the parking lots are still available and mostly free. I love coming here!! read more

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We had a lovely birthday dinner at Le Colonial. We have dined here several times and each time we enjoy the food, the impeccable service and the show-stopping desserts. Our favorites: Ca Hoi Nuong (Roasted Salmon), Cha Gio (CRISPY SHRIMP & PORK ROLL), Pho Bo (HANOI BEEF NOODLE SOUP), Crispy Brussel Sprouts. For dessert, Le Citron (Yuzu Mousse, Poached Meyer Lemon, Mint, White Chocolate) and the rich and buttery apple tart tatin. Special occasion or casual lunch, I always look forward to a meal at Le Colonial. read more

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Quality Vietnamese. Outdoor seating is beautiful. Cha gio ( crispy shrimp and pork roll) is a must have. Other dishes are generally good. However, their pho noodle soup is worse than their Chicago branch,m - too salty. read more

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Was served a meal here as part of a business offsite gathering. Each course was delicious and the staff was SO great. Seriously the most memorable part of our meal was how attentive our server was. We had a private room for 10 which was great for us. Definitely consider here as a upscale dining experience. read more

I love that Le Colonial is in Lake Forest. Lychee martini and the smoked old fashioned are amazing. Appetizers Sesame beef ravioli- delicious and I love eating the cucumbers and lettuce Vegetables spring rolls Beef pho (large bowl) Mains Shrimp green curry (no bamboo shoots) -good and spicy Shaking beef - delicious and salad on the side is good too Sides Garlic noodles - they changes the noodles to a thinner one. I like the thicker noodles better Signature fried rice (no Vietnamese sausage) - delicious Overall, the people who work here are amazing. The maître d' from Atlanta, Paul is exceptional. Great food, great service. Only complaint is that it's hard to get a reservation here so book weeks in advance for the popular dinner times on the weekends. read more

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Always delicious food, prompt service, and beautiful ambiance. We love coming for lunch and sitting at the bar. LC is one of my fave places in Lake County. read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Beef stir fry - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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They can't cook a bad dish here! Everything was mouthwatering good! Julia was the best server ever so kind and accommodating. She had a great sense of humor and made great recommendations. She was super attentive and really enhanced our experience. We truly thoroughly enjoyed every dish we ordered. We had Shrimp stir fry, Shaking beef, Red Snapper (one of the specials), Roast Duck (another one of the specials), coconut curry Shrimp, fall of the bone Pork Ribs (tenderness was out of this world), Vegetable rolls, Pork & chicken rolls, and lastly the Green papaya salad (the only salad I will eat and they did it right). The lychee martini was super tasty too The decor was beautiful and perfect for a date. I especially love the partial booth seating we had. I will keep going back and recommending this place. 10/10 read more

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Too expensive. Not worth the hype. The fried rice was ok. Service was good but we sat really close next to another table and it felt too crowded as they are trying to go for quantity over quality, or so it seems. I stand by my statement of I believe it's an identity crisis with decor, food items and pricing. read more

Return of Deposit- Made a reservation for 15 people 45 days in advance with a$900 deposit. Unfortunately, circumstances changed and I had to cancel the reservation 5 days later. The so-called restaurant refuses to return or refund the deposit. This company must really be struggling if it cannot return unearned money. This is not a responsible way of operating a business which does not warrant my business. Wonder if the staff shares in my stolen deposit!!! read more

Stopped in for lunch on a Monday afternoon with my wife and it was crowded. Luckily, we had a reservation. Food and ambiance were excellent. A much more refined version of Asian food, but not overly pretentious. And the service from Guadalupe was outstanding. A young boy at the table next to us asked where the bathroom was. Instead of pointing to the direction of its location, she politely walked him over there. Sometimes it's the small things like this which make a difference. read more

Delicious flavors ! Fantastic ambience and service. Each dish is thoughtful and unique read more

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Very expensive, but delicious food. The grilled eggplant was the tastiest I've ever had, and their ceviche had a unique flavor to it, plus some ingredients you don't normally find in ceviche. Major thumbs up! read more

Totally cannot understand why some think this spot is less than stellar. Food was inventive and delicious (one star left off due to food not being hot) , service was amazing and attentive. I was very impressed all around. read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Tartar, chicken raviolis, cabbage salad - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

As a returning customer, I can confidently say Le Colonial Lake Forest continues to be an absolute gem. From the moment you walk in, the ambiance strikes a perfect balance - warm, elegant and thoughtfully designed, making each of our visits feel relaxed and comfortable. The service is exceptional with just the right amount of attention to your needs without being intrusive. The cuisine is simply outstanding. There is a delicate harmony between French technique and Vietnamese flavors. The presentation is beyond beautiful. It is artistry. Please enjoy my photo of Le Citron which is a dessert. Yes...you can eat this "lemon" masterfully created with Yuzu Mousse, Poached Meyer Lemon, Mint and White Chocolate. Upon presentation, Le Citron is a delight to your eyes and ultimately to your palate! We look forward to our next visit! read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Le Citron - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Food is excellent Crispy spring rolls are delicious The fried rice is perfection Cocktails are superb and refreshing Service is attentive and very prompt. Seating is very tight and cramped in my view. wish they were a touch bigger but it's a great place for a quick cocktail and some appetizers . read more

Had an amazing dinner here this week. Chicken ravioli and shrimp spring rolls were fantastic - and the beef filet entree was absolutely delicious! The restaurant itself is decorated beautifully and service was top notch. read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Chicken ravioli, tuna tartare - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Literally the best takeout ever! The little pork egg rolls and the spicy chicken stirfry are just amazing!

Food - the food was delicious. All the flavors seemed very high-quality and authentic. Service was very good. Our server was super knowledgeable and helpful when it came to give me recommendations. Ambience was elevated and luxurious while also giving a accessible vibe not to snotty. read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

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I've wanted to try this place since I saw a friend's picture take here. The restaurant is beautiful and feels like eating at a fancy Restoration Hardware with Vietnamese upscale cuisine. Service is very nice and everything is done right from presentation of food on unique plates to the beautiful interior and exterior. A true experience. We enjoyed our time for my birthday. I'd have given 4.5 if I could. read more

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Ambiance out of this world, was taken aback by how beautiful the setting was, the service was also excellent and the food was top notch read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Ambiance on point - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Great service and food. You definitely need to order dessert, the Le Citron is almost as fun to eat as it was tasty. read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Le Citron dessert! - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

I have NOT been treated like this in a long time. We went to the restaurant to try and make a reservation. There was a man, we thought it might be the manager on staff outside rearranging the patio seating. We asked where we should go to get a reservation and he motioned to go inside. That is where it seems to have gone sideways. It is most definably positioned as an upscale Lake Forest restaurant. White linens, plant life, French music, etc. The restaurant was 20% full with over 60's and Lake Forest regulars. There was no one at the host stand, only one server and one support staff in the restaurant. We waited, and smiled, and waited, took a look at their online menu that did not show menu prices, and waited and walked directly into the dining section where people were eating, trying to get some ones attention to help us set up a reservation. No one looked at us, or said "be right with you thank you for waiting". So we went outside to the gentleman, who we thought was the manager, that was still setting up the outside patio. We told him that no one inside was paying attention to us, and we would like to make a reservation. The gentleman did not respond to us in any manner. So we left. It made us feel small. So if you are retired and live in Lake Forest.....otherwise I would not recommended LC. I will not be getting a reservation, or go to a meal at Le Colonial. (And even though they might not know me, I don't think it will really matter to them) read more

This place is super pretty and fancy. It has a dress code that must followed. Clientele are very snobby and there is a huge show of wealth at this restaurant. The food is good. The atmosphere is great. The people who are here and make it unpleasant to go back. read more

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We just happened to be visiting the Lake Forest Market Square and were smitten with this charming restaurant upon first sight. The bustling and beautiful outdoor patio called to us, and with Vietnamese food being some of my favorite cuisine, their front door plaque advertising French-Vietnamese fusion was equally alluring. We were a party of 8, with no reservations, so it was a kindness and a blessing they were able to seat us indoors, which was also beautifully decorated. The menu featured a multitude of enticing dishes that are a bit different from the usual Vietnamese restaurant offerings. I was very excited to give something new a try. The people sharing my table had varying preferences and familiarity with Vietnamese food, so we tried to get dishes that would appeal to everyone. We sampled the chilled vegetable roll, the sesame beef ravioli, pork and noodle dish, crispy brussel sprouts, grilled eggplant, and perhaps something else I am forgetting. My husband wanted a bowl of their pho bo, so I tried that as well. Table guests also ordered the two mocktails, Saigon Mint Colada and Le Diable. Both of those were good, but I'd say Le Diable was a little better. All in all, the food was sort of forgettable. Nothing really stood out as exceptional, and especially for the price. The meat in the sesame beef ravioli was especially a letdown, and the dish was overall sort of bland. When I think Vietnamese food, I am expecting a certain intensity of flavor, which nothing we tried really delivered. I have had authentic French food, and authentic Vietnamese food, both of which I preferred much more to anything I had here. Maybe we just ordered all of the wrong stuff, but still, too many things for none of them to be a hit. If I had to pick, my husband's pho bo was probably among the best of what was at the table. In summary, you are definitely visiting (and paying) for the atmosphere when you visit Le Colonial. I will also commend the service, which was gracious, kind, and hospitable to us. The food was fine, and inoffensive, but it won't be drawing me back. read more

Didn't even get a chance to dine. Denied us at the entrance when they saw we had new born in tow. I can appreciate if it would be tough to make accommodations. The issue is the rude way in which we were turned away. No "we are sorry but we can't accommodate". Just a direct "we don't have space for that." Not worth your time. read more

Goi Cuon|CHILLED SHRIMP ROLL -- Black Tiger Shrimp, Rice Noodles, Lettuce, Peanuts, Bean Sprouts, Ashland Farm Herbs, Peanut Sauce -- strangely full of crunchy carrot sticks and lacking in shrimp Suon Nuong|HERITAGE PORK RIBS -- Chargrilled Heritage Pork Pork Ribs with Signature Vietnamese Dry Rub, Lemongrass, Cabbage Slaw, Scallion Oil, Toasted Peanuts -- overcooked by a lot Banh Cuon|CHICKEN & MUSHROOM RAVIOLI -- Hanoi Steamed Rice Crêpe with Miller Farm Chicken, Wood Ear Mushrooms, Bean Sprouts, Nuoc Cham Sauvr -- mostly carbs Bo Luc Lac*SHAKING BEEF, Caramelized Creek Stone Farm Filet Mignon, Onions, Elawa Farm Greens, Stone Creek Watercress, Lime Pepper Vinaigrette -- incredibly salty Crispy Brussel Sprouts -- Caramelized Fish Sauce, Lemon, Roasted Peanuts Ca Tim Nuong -- Chargrilled Japanese Eggplant, Scallions, Crispy Shallots, Spicy Basil-Lime Fish Sauce. it's fine. Vanilla Peach Coconut Mille-Feuille -- Coconut Pastry Cream, Vanilla Poached Peach, Caramelized Puff Pastry, Organic Coconut Chips, Matcha Ice Cream -- pastry puff with some cream, pass. Warm Chocolate Cake -- Valrhona Guanaja Dark Chocolate, Vanilla Ice Cream, Chocolate Streusel, Flambée of Rum -- well made, flambee show at table was nice and keeps the center gooey warm, 5/5 read more

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I've dined at 3 Le colonial locations now several times, as a regular diner and for events; Atlanta Chicago downtown Lake forest And they never disappoint. The food, service, and ambiance are always stellar. So much so that I am considering throwing a shower at the atlanta location. I can't figure out why all of the negative reviews for this place but they will always have my business- in any city! read more

An upscale French and Vietnamese restaurant located in Lake Forest! My mom and I came here for happy hour after we had high tea around the corner. After cocktails we couldn't resist grabbing some food to go! I can't wait to come back to this place because it feels like you whisked yourself off to vacation land The lychee martini is a must try! Also note to any vegetarians - they are able to make some of the dishes veggie if you ask! I will come back with a full review after I've dined for dinner! read more

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I wore a Panama hat to Le Colonial. Entering, it felt appropriate. The atmosphere is as if a movie set designer decided to recreate the era of French/Viet Nam, but without the imperialism ; ). We found the food creatively enjoyable. Our server, Antonia, explained the menu, suggesting that given the proportions, the dishes were for sharing. Antonia was attentive throughout. We ordered a beet salad (2 types of beets with a tangy sauce), spicy chicken soup - coconut broth, exotic mushrooms and quality chicken (5 stars, enjoyed by my partner as well who is very cautious when it comes to spices), lamb chops (3) medium rare, almost rare, with a tangy sauce (5 stars), shrimp green curry (5 stars - Antonia recommended when asked for input - too spicy for partner). Not a big deal, but worth some comment: we asked for a second serving of rice (it comes as a small bowl of steamed jasmine white rice with the shrimp entree) - $4 up-charge; we asked for a substitution of the lamb chop side (steamed broccoli) - $5 up-charge. AND there was a 3% restaurant surcharge. We were very appreciative of our server and tipped well. Who gets that 3% surcharge? The mango sorbet was good, but ordinary. read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Atmospheric - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Birthday dinner. First time at the Lake Forest location. Wonderful ambiance, service, and delicious food! Especially liked the Seafood Ceviche (spicy!), Japanese Eggplant and the Crunchy Green Papaya Salad. The Tapioca dessert and Vietnamese coffee was a perfect closer. Really special experience! read more

Ambience: amazing. Food: elevated Vietnamese but very overpriced. Service: Let's just say with the army of people working there, it was tough to catch anyone's attention to get a refill on water or order a drink. read more

Five stars from start to finish. Made reservations and arrived. About five minutes early. Those offered to us to eat at the bar, which we elected. Once we had our first drink. He approached us again and told us that there was no hurry. Enjoy our drink. Our table will be reserved and it's ready for us. The weight staff was exceptional and extremely knowledgeable of the menu. We got two appetizers, tuna tartare and the pork spare ribs, both were absolutely delicious. Then I ordered the shaking beef, which was a melt in your mouth. Medallion good from a fillet in seasoned perfection . This place deserves six stars! read more

Le Colonial Lake Forest - Vietnamese Near Me - Lake Forest, Illinois

Le Colonial in Lake Forest is easily my favorite suburban restaurant. After living in cities like Chicago, NYC, London, and Philadelphia for almost two decades, I've often wondered why more city restaurants don't translate successfully to the suburbs. Le Colonial proves it's possible, and they do it exceptionally well. The interior is beautiful--bright, cosmopolitan, and polished. It has the atmosphere of a chic city spot, reminding me of a newly built Indochine in NoHo (lower Manhattan). The staff is friendly, stylish, and professional, striking the right balance of attentiveness without being overbearing. I make it a point to come here with my family once or twice every winter when visiting from out of town. The food has always been excellent. Some of my favorites include the crispy shrimp and pork rolls, chicken dumplings, spicy shrimp stir fry, salmon, shaking beef, and fried rice. The house rosé was also a pleasant surprise on my last visit. The dining room's layout makes it feel cozy yet open. There is plenty of natural light in the winter and a good vibe for people-watching. It's an excellent spot for an impressive and approachable group meal. The prices are reasonable for the food, service, and atmosphere quality. I highly recommend Le Colonial to anyone in the area and look forward to visiting again--hopefully in the summer! A must-visit in Lake Forest. read more

Absolutely LOVE Le Colonial! One of my top ten favorites in Chicago-land! Something for everyone on the menu.