Once the city's best kept suburban secret, Marché Bacchus is now a regular award winner, so it would have been totally acceptable for the most recent owners Rhonda and Jeff Wyatt to rest on their restaurant's reputation as a charming, tasty French bistro with an impeccable (and affordable) wine selection. But since they took the reins in 2007, the energetic couple hasn't rested, constantly renovating the food and remodeling the beloved lakeside experience. The great Alex Stratta is master chef and Dave Middleton is in charge of the kitchen. The result is a finely sharpened menu improving the dishes favored by regulars who storm the lake for dinner, brunch, or both in one weekend. Seared duck breast is moister. Steak is richer, frites are crispier. And there are more tables on that hotly requested patio, for sipping Bordeaux, enjoying baguette and watching the geese float by.

"Chef of the Year" and "Neighborhood Restaurant of the year," 16th Annual Restaurant Awards