You might be surprised to find that Chicago is home to some of the most acclaimed seafood eateries in the Midwest.
Despite being far from the ocean, the city offers an impressive array of fresh seafood options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
You’ll find iconic institutions like Calumet Fisheries, a James Beard Award-winning spot, serving house-smoked fish and other delights. Explore global seafood traditions at places like Leña Brava, Lure Fishbar, Andros Taverna, and Kayao.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this guide will help you navigate Chicago’s diverse seafood scene and discover the perfect spot for your next meal.
The Windy City’s Seafood Scene
You might be surprised at the freshness and variety of seafood available in Chicago. The city’s seafood scene is a testament to its culinary versatility and the logistical prowess that brings the ocean to your dining table.
Chicago’s Relationship with Seafood
Chicago’s relationship with seafood is unique. While the city sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, its reputation for exceptional seafood comes from restaurants that import fresh catches daily from coastal regions. You’ll find that Chicago’s seafood scene blends Midwestern hospitality with coastal culinary traditions, creating a distinctive dining experience.
The city’s diverse population has influenced its seafood offerings, with restaurants specializing in everything from New England-style seafood to Mexican mariscos to Asian-inspired fish dishes. This diversity, coupled with the city’s competitive culinary landscape, pushes chefs to maintain the highest standards of quality and creativity when it comes to seafood preparation.
From Lake to Ocean: How Chicago Gets Fresh Seafood
The city’s strategic location as a transportation hub has historically made it possible to bring in fresh seafood from both coasts and the Gulf. Modern logistics and dedicated seafood purveyors ensure that Chicago restaurants receive deliveries of fresh fish and shellfish within 24 hours of being caught. This logistical efficiency is crucial in maintaining the freshness and quality of the seafood served in Chicago.
Lake Michigan itself contributes to the local seafood scene, with some restaurants featuring freshwater fish like perch and whitefish. This blend of freshwater and saltwater seafood options enriches the dining experience, offering something for every seafood lover’s taste.
Iconic Chicago Seafood Institutions
Chicago’s culinary landscape is dotted with iconic seafood institutions that have become synonymous with quality and freshness. These legendary establishments have stood the test of time, offering authentic dining experiences that keep customers coming back.
Calumet Fisheries
Calumet Fisheries has been a Chicago staple since 1948, smoking fish on-site and serving customers from all walks of life. This institution, located under the famous Blues Brothers bridge, offers a no-frills experience with a menu featuring smoked salmon, trout, and shrimp. Customers can enjoy their meals in their cars, a tradition that adds to the charm of this beloved spot.
Shaw’s Crab House
Shaw’s Crab House is a Chicago classic, offering two distinct dining experiences under one roof. The elegant white-tablecloth dining room provides an upscale atmosphere, while the lively oyster bar is perfect for those looking for a more casual, vibrant experience. With a menu featuring pristine oysters, king crab legs, and seasonal specialties like stone crab claws, Shaw’s Crab House is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
Half Shell
Half Shell has been serving some of Chicago’s most affordable and delicious seafood since 1968. This Lakeview oyster bar maintains its dive bar charm while offering a variety of bivalves, king crab legs, soft shell crabs, and fish. The casual ambiance makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike, who come to enjoy high-quality seafood without the hefty price tag.
These iconic institutions have survived changing culinary trends by maintaining consistent quality and authentic experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for smoked fish, fresh oysters, or a seafood boil, Chicago’s legendary seafood spots have something to offer every palate.
Upscale Seafood Dining Experiences
Chicago offers a range of upscale seafood dining experiences that are sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in the finer things in life, these restaurants are sure to deliver.
RPM Seafood
RPM Seafood, situated along the Chicago River, provides not only breathtaking views of the city but also meticulously prepared seafood dishes that are as visually impressive as they are delicious. The restaurant’s charcoal-grilled specialties, particularly the mixed seafood grill with octopus and blue prawn that’s ignited tableside, create memorable dining moments.
Asador Bastian
Asador Bastian brings Spanish coastal cuisine to Chicago with imported seafood prepared with a hint of smoke from the grill in an elegant, dimly lit space. While known for its “boutique” beef, Asador Bastian’s fish preparations like sole amandine and turbot showcase the restaurant’s commitment to seafood excellence.
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab offers a luxurious steakhouse experience with an emphasis on pristine seafood, particularly their signature stone crab claws. Start with an order of the sweet, cool stone crabs, the sugar prawns (Madagascar shrimp), and a delicious chopped salad that could easily feed two, making for a truly exceptional dining experience.
These upscale establishments justify their higher price points through impeccable service, premium ingredients, and sophisticated preparation techniques that elevate seafood to an art form. When you’re looking for a special occasion seafood experience in Chicago, these restaurants are sure to impress with their commitment to quality food and exceptional space.
King Crab Specialists in Chicago
The city’s culinary scene is now replete with establishments specializing in king crab, flown in fresh from Alaska’s icy waters. You can indulge in this luxurious seafood delicacy at several top-tier restaurants that stand out for their exceptional quality and flavor.
Where to Find the Best Alaskan King Crab
For those seeking the finest Alaskan king crab, Shaw’s Crab House is a renowned destination. This iconic restaurant has been a standard bearer for pristine seafood for over three decades. You can enjoy cracking into king crab legs in their lively oyster bar, where the freshness and quality are unparalleled.
Another notable establishment is Boston Fish Market, with locations in Des Plaines and Wheeling. As one of the Midwest’s largest seafood processors, they offer some of the freshest Alaskan king crab legs in the Chicago area. Their expansive list of choices ranges from Chilean sea bass and mahi-mahi to Georges Bank scallops and lobster tails.
Seasonal King Crab Offerings
King crab season typically runs from October through January, making winter the prime time to enjoy these delicacies at their freshest in Chicago restaurants. During this period, you can expect to find a variety of king crab dishes on menus across the city, from traditional steamed preparations to innovative creations incorporating king crab meat into pastas, risottos, and even sushi.
When ordering king crab in Chicago, you can expect to pay a premium price, but the experience of cracking into these massive legs and extracting the sweet meat is worth the splurge for special occasions. Some chefs are pushing the boundaries of traditional king crab dishes, offering unique and exciting flavors that are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Chicago’s Acclaimed Seafood Restaurants with River Views
The Chicago River has become a culinary hotspot, with top-notch seafood restaurants that boast stunning river views. You can enjoy a dining experience like no other, with the city’s iconic skyline as your backdrop.
Azul Mariscos
Located near the Salt Shed in Goose Island, Azul Mariscos offers a Latin American-inspired seafood menu with lovely views of the Chicago River. You can savor dishes like huachinango (whole red snapper with citrus chimichurri salsa) and lobster empanadas, paired with cocktails by the pitcher on their seasonal rooftop.
The restaurant’s proximity to the river makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the picturesque views. Their weekend brunch is particularly popular, making it a great spot to start your day.
Bar Mar by José Andrés
Bar Mar by José Andrés provides a sophisticated riverfront dining experience, with floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the Chicago skyline. The dramatic interior, complete with a giant octopus sculpture above the main bar, sets the tone for a creative seafood offering.
You can enjoy playful items like cones stuffed with smoked hamachi alongside more traditional offerings like oysters on the half shell, all paired with a glass of Spanish wine. This restaurant is a must-visit for any seafood lover looking for a unique dining experience.
These riverside restaurants are especially popular during warmer months when outdoor seating allows for an even more immersive waterfront dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Chicago’s seafood restaurants with river views offer an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Mexican-Inspired Seafood Destinations
The Windy City now boasts an impressive array of Mexican-inspired seafood destinations. Chicago’s diverse population has contributed to a thriving scene of mariscos restaurants that offer vibrant flavors and fresh preparations. You can enjoy a range of seafood dishes inspired by regions like Baja, Sinaloa, and Nayarit, bringing a taste of Mexico’s rich seafood traditions to the Midwest.
Mariscos San Pedro
Mariscos San Pedro, located in Pilsen’s Thalia Hall, has quickly become a standout destination. The team behind popular restaurants like Obelix, Taqueria Chingon, and Le Bouchon took over Dusek’s former space in 2024. At Mariscos San Pedro, you can order individual cod or shrimp tacos or build your own feast from whole crispy snapper or dorade served with housemade tortillas and salsas. Their creative approach extends to oyster preparations, including versions cooked with achiote butter or chilled with passionfruit mignonette.
Alegrias Seafood
Alegrias Seafood in West Town represents the longstanding tradition of mariscos in Chicago. This BYOB restaurant offers generous family-style platters showcasing Nayarit-style seafood preparations. You can enjoy heaping portions of stuffed lobster, prawns, and perfectly fried whole snapper. Alegrias makes it an affordable option for groups looking to indulge in a variety of seafood delights.
These Mexican-inspired seafood restaurants are enhancing Chicago’s culinary landscape by offering a unique blend of flavors and dining experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, oysters, or a family platter, there’s something for every seafood lover.
Seafood Markets That Double as Restaurants
For those who crave the freshest seafood, Chicago offers an exceptional experience at its hybrid seafood markets and restaurants. These unique establishments allow you to purchase the freshest fish to cook at home and enjoy expertly prepared dishes on-site.
Boston Fish Market
Boston Fish Market in Des Plaines is a treasure trove of fresh seafood. As one of the Midwest’s largest processors of salmon and whitefish, it provides access to some of the freshest seafood available in the Chicago area. What makes Boston Fish Market special is that the kitchen will prepare anything they sell, allowing you to enjoy Greek- and Cajun-style preparations of shrimp, scallops, octopus, and lobster.
A second outpost of Boston Fish Market is located in Wheeling, offering the same fresh seafood experience. The ability to see the products firsthand and have them prepared on the spot makes for a unique dining experience.
Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop
Dirk and Terry Fucik have operated Dirk’s Fish & Gourmet Shop in Lincoln Park for more than 20 years. This gourmet fish shop has been a neighborhood institution, offering both retail seafood and a full lunch menu. During the pandemic, Dirk’s expanded their offerings to include a wider selection of groceries alongside prepared items like lobster rolls, crab cakes, and shrimp tacos.
For home cooks looking to improve their seafood preparation skills, Dirk’s offers BYOB cooking classes that provide inspiration for using seasonal fish, including copi. These classes are a great way to learn about seafood selection and quality while gaining cooking skills.
Chicago’s seafood markets that double as restaurants offer a unique experience, blending the freshness of a market with the enjoyment of a meal out. Whether you’re looking to cook at home or dine in, these establishments provide exceptional seafood experiences.
Casual Seafood Spots for Everyday Dining
Enjoying seafood in Chicago doesn’t have to be a special occasion. The city is home to numerous casual seafood spots that offer delicious meals without breaking the bank. These restaurants are perfect for everyday dining, providing a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of seafood options.
Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Brown Bag Seafood Co. has revolutionized quick-service seafood in Chicago with its seven locations throughout the city, including River North. You can build your own meal by choosing proteins like grilled salmon, seared tuna, or curry fish cakes, served in tacos, with veggies and grains, or over salad. This build-your-own concept lets you customize your meal to your liking, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
For those who prefer their seafood with a crunch, Brown Bag also offers fried options that satisfy indulgent cravings while maintaining quality ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a quick dinner, Brown Bag Seafood Co. is a great choice.
Lawrence’s Fish and Shrimp
Lawrence’s Fish and Shrimp has been a Chicago institution since 1950, operating 24 hours a day to satisfy late-night cravings for perfectly fried seafood. You can enjoy crispy shrimp, fish, oysters, scallops, clam strips, and more, all made with the original family hot sauce recipe that has kept customers coming back for generations.
One of the unique features of Lawrence’s is its dock behind the building, which caters to boaters and kayakers on the Chicago River. They even offer pontoon rentals for a truly Chicago experience, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors.
These casual seafood spots make fresh seafood accessible for everyday dining without sacrificing quality or flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy meal or a late-night indulgence, Chicago’s casual seafood restaurants have got you covered.
Oyster Bars and Raw Seafood Specialists
Chicago’s oyster bars are a culinary gem, offering some of the freshest bivalves in the Midwest. With varieties flown in daily from both the East and West coasts, you’re in for a treat. Shaw’s Crab House remains the gold standard for oyster enthusiasts, with their lively oyster bar offering a rotating selection of meticulously sourced varieties.
Where to Find the Freshest Oysters in Chicago
At these specialized seafood establishments, you’ll find knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the subtle differences between oyster varieties, from briny East Coast specimens to creamier West Coast options. Half Shell in Lakeview has operated since 1968, providing diners with bivalves, king crab legs, soft shell crabs, and fish for less than what comparable places charge.
Beyond Oysters: Other Raw Bar Delicacies
Raw bars in Chicago extend beyond oysters to include other delicacies like ceviches, crudos, tartares, and chilled seafood towers featuring lobster, crab claws, and jumbo shrimp. For the full experience, pair your raw seafood with classic accompaniments like a cold martini or champagne, which many of these establishments offer by the glass.
Seafood Boil Experiences in Chicago
Seafood boil restaurants have become the talk of the town in Chicago, offering a unique dining experience that’s both messy and memorable. You’re in for a treat when you visit these eateries, where the focus is on fresh seafood and flavorful sauces.
At these restaurants, you’ll don a bib and dig into steam-filled bags stuffed with shrimp, crab legs, and other sea treasures. The experience is deliberately casual, with no plates or utensils – just seafood tossed in flavorful sauces served directly on paper-covered tables.
Lowcountry
Lowcountry is a standout in Chicago’s seafood boil scene, with locations in Lakeview, Chinatown, and the South Loop. You’ll love their signature combos, which come with honey butter jalapeño cornbread, and the option to add on Cajun waffle fries and beignets for a proper feast.
Their shrimp and crab legs are cooked to perfection, and the variety of sauces ensures that you’ll find something to suit your taste.
Two Fish Crab Shack
Two Fish Crab Shack in Bronzeville has developed a loyal following for its unique approach to bagged seafood. You’ll enjoy their offerings, which include lobster, crab, shrimp, and crawfish coated with jerk, lemon pepper, or garlic butter sauces.
This BYOB spot is perfect for group gatherings and celebrations, offering a fun and casual dining experience without breaking the bank.
International Seafood Cuisines in Chicago
International seafood cuisines are thriving in Chicago, reflecting the city’s cultural diversity. You can experience a wide range of global seafood traditions without leaving the city.
Ocean Grill & Bar
At Ocean Grill & Bar in Chinatown, you can enjoy Vietnamese seafood preparations that go beyond the familiar pho and banh mi. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including Dungeness crab stir-fried in tamarind sauce and fresh oysters grilled with scallion oil.
The Ocean Grill & Bar experience is made even more appealing by the affordability of its dishes, allowing you to sample multiple seafood preparations in one visit.
Kayao
Kayao in Old Town brings the unique flavors of Peruvian seafood to Chicago. The restaurant showcases the fascinating fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and indigenous Peruvian culinary traditions.
You can enjoy a rotating selection of fish served as ceviche with sweet potato emulsion and Peruvian corn, or rolled into sushi with shrimp tempura and acevichado sauce at Kayao. The grill bar at Kayao offers a dynamic dining experience with creative fusion dishes.
These international seafood restaurants provide Chicagoans with the opportunity to experience authentic coastal cuisines from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for Vietnamese or Peruvian seafood, Chicago’s diverse culinary scene has something to offer.
Hidden Gem Seafood Restaurants
Tucked away in various neighborhoods, Chicago’s hidden gem seafood restaurants offer a more intimate dining experience, away from the crowds that flock to more popular spots. These understated eateries provide a chance to enjoy exceptional seafood in a relaxed and often unique setting.
Two such hidden gems are mfk. and Mirra, each offering a distinct take on seafood cuisine.
mfk.
Hidden below ground level in Lakeview, mfk. is an intimate, Spanish-influenced restaurant that captures the essence of seaside eating. The menu features coastal delights such as seared sea scallops, boquerones (marinated white anchovies), and seafood fideos (a paella-like noodle dish). mfk. has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand Award every year since its opening in 2014, a testament to its consistent quality and value.
Mirra
Mirra represents a fascinating fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisines, resulting in unique seafood dishes that are both innovative and delicious. While not exclusively a seafood restaurant, Mirra’s fish preparations are a significant draw. Standout dishes include the buttermilk and lime-cured aguachile served with garlic and serrano achar, laksa-baked oysters, and a South Asian salmon fry. These creative preparations showcase Mirra’s ability to blend traditional flavors with unexpected twists.
These hidden gems, including mfk. and Mirra, not only offer exceptional seafood but also provide a more personal dining experience. The chefs at these establishments are passionate about introducing diners to unique seafood preparations from around the world, making each visit a memorable culinary adventure.
Seafood Restaurants with Unique Dining Experiences
If you’re looking for more than just a meal, Chicago’s seafood restaurants with unique dining experiences are the way to go. These establishments offer more than just great food; they transport you to coastal regions around the world.
Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods
At Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods in Wicker Park, Chef Brian Jupiter draws upon his New Orleans heritage to create a bayou experience in the heart of Chicago. The Louisiana native delivers soul food rich with seafood options that can be enjoyed blackened (salmon, shrimp) or fried (catfish, oysters, crawfish), with recipes passed down from his grandmother.
For a truly impressive experience at Ina Mae, order the seafood tower – large enough to feed several people and showcasing the best of the Gulf Coast’s bounty.
Diego
Diego in West Town, from the team behind Taqueria Chingon, brings the flavors of Baja California to Chicago through Chef Stephen Sandoval’s creative approach to Mexican seafood. The bar incorporates raw fare and wood-fired seafood with standout dishes including fluke ceviche, beer-battered cod tacos, and octopus and shrimp tostadas.
The complete experience at Diego includes thoughtfully crafted drinks that complement the Latin flavors, with micheladas and a curated selection of Mexican beer and wine. It’s a fun spot and a prelude to Sandoval’s upcoming full-service restaurant.
These unique dining experiences showcase the diversity and creativity of Chicago’s seafood scene, offering something for every palate and preference.
Best Seafood Dishes to Try in Chicago
Chicago’s seafood scene is a culinary journey you won’t want to miss. The city’s diverse restaurants offer a wide range of delicious seafood dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Signature Seafood Preparations
Some of Chicago’s top seafood restaurants have developed signature dishes that have become must-try items for seafood enthusiasts. At RPM Seafood, the charcoal-grilled seafood platter is a standout, featuring octopus and blue prawns ignited tableside for a spectacular presentation. Shaw’s Crab House offers seasonal specials like fried soft shell crab and stone crab claws, while Mariscos San Pedro’s innovative oyster preparations showcase the versatility of this seafood staple.
Other notable mentions include Diego’s fluke ceviche and beer-battered cod tacos, as well as Mirra’s aguachile cured with buttermilk and lime, served with garlic and serrano achar. These signature preparations highlight the diversity and creativity of Chicago’s seafood scene.
Seasonal Seafood Specialties
Many Chicago seafood restaurants adjust their menus seasonally to feature the freshest available fish. In the spring, look for specialties like ramps paired with seafood, while summer brings lighter preparations with fresh herbs and citrus. Seasonal specialties worth seeking out include soft shell crabs, typically available May through September, at restaurants like Half Shell and Shaw’s.
For tuna lovers, Mirra’s yellowfin tuna leche de tigre offers a unique cross-cultural preparation that combines Peruvian and South Asian flavors. Be sure to try the special sauce preparations that highlight Chicago’s diverse culinary influences, from classic lemon butter to more exotic options like garlic-serrano achar or tamarind-based preparations.
Tips for Enjoying Chicago’s Seafood Scene
Chicago’s seafood scene is a year-round affair, but specific seasons bring unique delicacies to the forefront. To make the most of your dining experience in this vibrant city, understanding the best times to visit and how to plan your meals can be incredibly beneficial.
Best Times to Visit for Fresh Seafood
The availability of fresh seafood in Chicago varies by season, with certain delicacies being more accessible during specific times of the year. For instance, winter (October through January) is prime time for Alaskan king crab, when these prized crustaceans are at their freshest and most abundant in Chicago restaurants.
As spring arrives, the city welcomes the brief but celebrated soft shell crab season, typically from May through early summer. Meanwhile, stone crab claws are at their best from October through May, making fall and winter ideal times to enjoy this Florida specialty in Chicago.
| Season | Seafood Specialty | Best Time to Enjoy |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Alaskan King Crab | October to January |
| Spring | Soft Shell Crab | May to Early Summer |
| Fall/Winter | Stone Crab Claws | October to May |
Reservations and Dining Strategies
For popular seafood destinations like RPM Seafood and Shaw’s Crab House, making reservations well in advance is essential, especially for weekend dining. Consider dining at the bar in establishments like Shaw’s Oyster Bar or Bar Mar for a more casual experience that often doesn’t require reservations.
Many of Chicago’s best seafood restaurants offer happy hour specials on oysters and other raw bar items, typically on weekdays between 4-6 pm, providing excellent value. For the most authentic experience at casual spots like Calumet Fisheries, be prepared to eat in your car or take your food to go, as seating space is limited.
Conclusion
In the heart of the Midwest, a surprising seafood paradise awaits, offering a wide array of fresh and exciting dining experiences. Chicago’s seafood scene is a true reflection of the city’s culinary diversity, blending traditional flavors with innovative twists. As you’ve explored the various sections of this article, it’s become clear that Chicago is a city that takes its seafood seriously, with a range of options that cater to every taste and preference.
The city’s seafood landscape is dotted with iconic institutions like Calumet Fisheries and Shaw’s Crab House, alongside innovative newcomers that are redefining the way we experience seafood. Whether you’re in the mood for Baja-inspired striped bass tacos at Leña Brava, sushi at Lure Fishbar, or Peruvian ceviche at Kayao, Chicago’s diverse culinary scene has something for everyone.
One of the standout features of Chicago’s seafood scene is its ability to offer a wide range of dining experiences. From upscale restaurants with river views to casual seafood boil spots perfect for group gatherings, the city caters to all occasions. Additionally, seafood markets that double as restaurants provide a unique opportunity to enjoy expertly prepared dishes and purchase fresh fish to cook at home.
Some of the signature seafood preparations worth trying include king crab legs with drawn butter and lemon, wood-fired whole fish with garlic butter, and innovative tuna preparations. The freshness of the seafood is ensured by Chicago’s position as a major transportation hub, allowing for daily deliveries from both coasts and the Gulf.
As you explore Chicago’s acclaimed seafood restaurants, you’ll discover a side of the city’s culinary identity that goes beyond its reputation for deep-dish pizza and Italian beef. From the simple pleasure of fried shrimp at Lawrence’s to the sophisticated seafood towers at RPM, Chicago’s seafood scene offers delicious discoveries at every price point.
In conclusion, Chicago’s seafood scene is a vibrant and exciting culinary landscape that is sure to impress even the most discerning seafood lovers. With its diverse range of dining experiences, fresh seafood, and innovative preparations, the city is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves seafood. So, the next time you’re in Chicago, be sure to explore its many seafood restaurants and enjoy the city’s unique culinary offerings.
The above is subject to change.
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