Chez Jules
Historic French bistro in a converted fire station, celebrated for seasonal cuisine and outstanding value.
A bustling French bistro housed in Chester's historic fire station, Chez Jules has been serving authentic rustic French cuisine since 1997. Located on Northgate Street in the heart of the city, this warm and welcoming restaurant is celebrated for its daily-changing menus featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, attentive service, and exceptional value for money. The intimate setting within the beautifully restored Victorian building creates an atmosphere perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
A brief summary to Chez Jules in Chester
- 71 Northgate St, Chester, CH1 2HQ, GB
- +441244400014
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead, especially for Tuesday evenings when the two-course menu with wine for £36 per person represents exceptional value. Weekday lunch service is generally quieter than evenings.
- Inform staff of special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries; the team often provides complimentary touches including prosecco or desserts with personalized messages.
- Request a table with a view of the open kitchen to enjoy the theater of watching the chef and team at work while dining.
- The vegetable accompaniments are generous and carefully prepared; they are included in the price rather than charged as extras, making the overall value even stronger.
- The wine list offers excellent selections by the glass; ask staff for recommendations to pair with your chosen dishes rather than committing to a full bottle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Chez Jules in Chester location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Chez Jules in Chester
A Historic Home for French Dining
Chez Jules occupies a distinctive setting within Chester's former fire station, a Victorian building that has been thoughtfully restored to create an intimate and characterful dining space. Since opening in 1997, the restaurant has established itself as one of Chester's most consistent and celebrated dining destinations. The conversion of this historic structure into a welcoming bistro has preserved the building's original charm while creating an atmosphere that feels both elegant and approachable, making it equally suited to romantic dinners and family celebrations.Philosophy of Fresh, Seasonal Cooking
The kitchen at Chez Jules operates on a philosophy of daily menu rotation, ensuring that diners experience the finest seasonal ingredients at their peak. Rather than relying on static menus, the chef and team source locally whenever possible, adapting offerings based on ingredient availability and market conditions. This approach guarantees that every visit offers something new while maintaining the restaurant's commitment to quality. The menu emphasizes classic French techniques applied to contemporary ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both traditional in spirit and thoughtfully executed.Signature Dishes and Culinary Highlights
The restaurant has become known for several standout dishes that showcase the kitchen's technical skill and ingredient quality. Beef Bourguignon, when executed well, demonstrates the depth that slow-cooked French braises can achieve, with tender meat and rich, wine-based reductions. Tartiflette, the Savoyard potato and cheese gratin, appears frequently on menus and is consistently praised for its creamy, comforting character. Lamb dishes, particularly lamb shoulder, are prepared with careful attention to tenderness and flavor development. The mackerel pâté, paired with crème fraîche and fresh radish, exemplifies the restaurant's ability to elevate simple ingredients through careful preparation and presentation. Vegetable accompaniments—including carrot, mange tout, red cabbage, and potato dauphinois—are treated with equal care and arrive in generous portions.Value and Pricing Strategy
Chez Jules has built a reputation for offering exceptional value, particularly through its prix fixe offerings. The Tuesday special—two courses and a bottle of house wine for £36 per person—has become legendary among Chester diners and represents outstanding value in the current restaurant landscape. Three-course menus typically range from £26.95 to £36 per person, depending on the day and specific offering. À la carte dining is available, with starters around £5–8, mains £14–18, and desserts £5–7. The wine list offers selections by the glass and bottle, with house wines available at reasonable prices. This pricing structure makes fine French dining accessible to a broad audience without compromising quality or portion size.Service and Hospitality
The restaurant is distinguished by its attentive yet unobtrusive service style. Staff members work cohesively as a team rather than operating in isolated sections, ensuring that all tables receive consistent attention. The team is trained to recognize special occasions—birthdays and anniversaries often receive complimentary touches such as prosecco or desserts with personalized messages. Service pacing is generally prompt, with hot food arriving at appropriate temperatures and courses timed to allow proper enjoyment. The open kitchen design allows diners to observe the chef and kitchen team at work, adding transparency and theater to the dining experience.Atmosphere and Clientele
The restaurant attracts a diverse clientele ranging from couples celebrating anniversaries to families enjoying Sunday lunch and business diners taking advantage of midweek specials. The historic fire station setting creates a distinctive ambiance that feels both special and unpretentious. The venue can become quite busy, particularly on Tuesday evenings and weekends, which speaks to its popularity but also means that reservations are strongly advised to secure a table. The bustling atmosphere contributes to the sense of occasion without becoming overwhelming, though noise levels can occasionally rise when the restaurant reaches full capacity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge Of Sighs
0.0 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.2 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Chester Town Hall
0.2 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.2 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Chester War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.3 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Chester Cross
0.4 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Crypt Chambers
0.4 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
0.4 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Eastgate Clock
0.4 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.6 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Wishing Steps
0.8 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.9 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Chester Castle: Agricola Tower and Castle Walls
0.9 km
Explore the historical grandeur of Chester Castle, featuring the iconic Agricola Tower and majestic castle walls, a perfect destination for history lovers.
Statue of Richard Grosvenor, Second Marquess of Westminster
0.9 km
Discover the monumental Statue of Richard Grosvenor in Chester, a testament to history and artistry surrounded by the charm of this ancient city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chester City Streets
0.0 km
Step into Chester’s historic heart, where Roman foundations meet Tudor Rows and centuries of stories unfold along cobbled lanes and half-timbered streets.
Northgate St & Little Abbey Gateway
0.1 km
Historic crossroads where medieval Gothic gateway meets Georgian Chester’s vibrant city life and heritage.
Storyhouse
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant cultural hub blending theatre, cinema, library, and community in a stunning Art Deco setting.
Partly
0.1 km
Chester Market blends local tradition and global flavors in a vibrant, accessible space with award-winning design and community spirit.
Escapism Chester
0.1 km
Dive into Chester’s top escape room with immersive puzzles, captivating themes, and expert hosts for an unforgettable adventure.
Chester Market
0.1 km
Discover Chester Market’s vibrant mix of local produce, global flavors, artisan crafts, and lively community spirit in a modern, accessible setting.
Morgan's Mount
0.2 km
A historic Civil War tower on Chester’s ancient walls, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into 17th-century military defense.
Chester In Lego
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s iconic landmarks reimagined in vibrant Lego bricks at this interactive, family-friendly exhibit in Market Exchange Square.
North West Angle Tower
0.2 km
Historic Roman and medieval tower anchoring Chester’s city walls at the northwestern corner, offering iconic views and a glimpse into the city’s defensive past.
Chester Free Walking Tours
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s rich history and iconic landmarks on a free, expert-led walking tour through the heart of this ancient city.
Chester Town Hall Square
0.2 km
Historic Chester Town Hall Square offers stunning Gothic Revival architecture and a lively cultural hub in the heart of Chester.
Statue of Janya - the Baby Elephant
0.2 km
A lifelike bronze baby elephant statue symbolizing life, friendship, and Chester’s bond with its zoo, nestled in the historic city center.
King Charles Tower
0.2 km
Visit King Charles Tower in Chester for a blend of breathtaking views and rich historical context, a must-see landmark for every traveler.
Town Hall
0.2 km
Explore Chester Town Hall, a majestic 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic hub in the heart of historic Chester.
Edwardian Lady Tour
0.2 km
Discover Chester’s Edwardian charm on a captivating walking tour led by a guide in authentic period costume with exclusive Town Hall access.
Essential places to dine
Chez Jules in Chester
0.0 km
Historic French bistro in a converted fire station, celebrated for seasonal cuisine and outstanding value.
Blue Bell
0.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a historic 15th-century setting at The Blue Bell 1494, Chester’s charming culinary gem.
Covino
0.0 km
Discover Covino, Chester’s intimate wine bar pairing exceptional organic wines with inventive small plates in a cozy, historic setting.
Green House
0.0 km
A stylish Chester tapas restaurant blending gourmet small plates, inventive cocktails, and warm hospitality in a modern setting.
Porta Wine & Tapas Bar
0.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Bollicini
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and stylish Milanese-inspired dining in the heart of Chester’s historic city centre.
Pied Bull Restaurant
0.0 km
Historic Tudor inn and lively pub in Chester’s city centre, offering hearty British fare and charming accommodation steeped in character.
The Kitchen
0.1 km
A vibrant Western-style eatery at Chester’s Storyhouse, blending seasonal local cuisine with a lively cultural atmosphere.
North Light Chester
0.1 km
A vibrant, stylish restaurant on Chester’s Northgate Street offering fresh, flavorful dishes in a lively, contemporary setting.
Veeno Chester
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Veeno Chester – where exquisite wine meets delectable cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Frodsham's Grill Chester
0.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean and Turkish charcoal-grilled delights served in a welcoming Chester setting with attentive service and a lively atmosphere.
The Botanist Chester
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Chester - where delicious food meets live music in a beautifully designed setting.
Ristorante Sergio
0.3 km
Cozy Italian dining with authentic flavors and friendly service in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Duttons
0.3 km
Chester’s stylish modern European bistro blending classic charm with fresh seasonal cuisine and vibrant cocktails in a cozy, elegant setting.
Telford's Warehouse
0.4 km
Discover Telford's Warehouse: A historic pub and restaurant offering delightful grilled cuisine and live music along Chester's scenic River Dee.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CH.ONE
0.1 km
Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
Chester Zoo at The Market
0.2 km
Discover unique wildlife gifts and support global conservation at Chester Zoo’s vibrant market stall in the heart of Chester.
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant world of healing crystals and spiritual gifts at The Crystal Hut, Chester’s colorful gem in Exchange Square market.
The 2nd Floor Independent Shop
0.2 km
Discover quirky, unique fashion and gifts with friendly service in Chester’s charming independent boutique on Upper Northgate Street.
The Gift Shop
0.2 km
Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
The Mug Doctor
0.3 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Lily Vintage Boutique
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Foxy Frox Boutique
0.3 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
Harriet & Dee
0.4 km
Charming boutique gift and baby shop in Chester’s historic Watergate Street, known for unique presents and friendly service.
Reminis
0.4 km
Explore Chester's hidden gem, Reminis Gift Shop, for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
Elephant
0.4 km
Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Fifi Bambu
0.4 km
Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
NICHOLS
0.4 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Rainforest
0.4 km
Discover Chester’s serene spiritual gift shop with crystals, mindfulness tools, and warm hospitality at Rainforest on Watergate Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Music Hall Tap
0.3 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.3 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
City Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Watergates Bar
0.4 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Havana Chester
0.4 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.4 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
Prohibition
0.4 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
The Guild Chester
0.4 km
Chester’s stylish cocktail bar and live music venue with two bars, terrace, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
BarLounge - Chester
0.4 km
Chester’s premier lounge bar blending refined comfort food with creative cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Commonhall Street Social
0.4 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
Red Door
0.5 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.5 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Paysan
0.5 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rosies - Chester
0.3 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Chester City Club
0.4 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Cruise
0.5 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.6 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Mandy & Graham’s
2.3 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Ewloe Social and Community Club Ltd
10.8 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
16.7 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
16.9 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club in Mold, where fun meets fellowship and local culture thrives.
Flint Royal British Legion Social Club
17.3 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Magnet Club
17.6 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
The Establishment
21.6 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
23.4 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
23.7 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
23.8 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Heebie Jeebies
23.8 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Casual
- Lively
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
