our origins
la petite folie is Mary and Mike Mastricola’s love letter to the classic food and wines of France. Mike and Mary have been Hyde Park residents since their college years at the University of Chicago. Both hold BAs from the University. Mary and Mike were married for five years when, with great curiosity and adventurous spirits, the couple quit their jobs, followed their hearts and moved to Paris. Mary earned the Grand Diplôme – Cuisine et Pâtissier of the École Le Cordon Bleu, finishing first in her class in 1995. Mike explored French history, culture, and wine.
The Mastricolas returned to Hyde Park in 1996 and in June 1999, opened la petite folie in a lush, flower-filled courtyard. Mary runs the kitchen while Mike manages the restaurant’s all-French wine list. Now 22 years later, we invite you to treat yourself to “a little extravagance” – our small taste of France in Chicago.
Bon Appétit!
Mike and Mary Mastricola
