The Absolute Best Seafood in Chicago [Updated 2024]

As an avid seafood enthusiast and self-proclaimed connoisseur, I have had the pleasure of exploring the vibrant seafood scene in the Windy City. With a belly full of delectable dishes and a notebook bursting with scribbled reviews, I am excited to share my findings with you.

In this article, I will dive into the depths of Chicago's seafood offerings, reviewing a whopping twelve establishments renowned for their maritime delights. So, prepare your taste buds and join me on this mouthwatering adventure as we uncover the best seafood treasures that Chicago has to offer.

Dive in!

Brown Bag Seafood Co.

Highlights
Amazing customer service
Delicious Fish Sandwich
Excellent quality seafood
Generous and kind staff

From the moment I stepped into Brown Bag Seafood Co., I was greeted with amazing customer service. The staff was not only friendly, but they were also eager to assist me in finding the perfect seafood dish. Their kindness and generosity truly made the dining experience memorable.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the delicious Fish Sandwich. Trust me when I say, this sandwich is no ordinary fry-up. The fish was perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor. The crispy batter added a delightful crunch to every bite, and the sandwich was complemented by a fresh and zesty tartar sauce. It was a true seafood lover's dream come true.

What truly set Brown Bag Seafood Co. apart was their commitment to excellence in seafood quality. The ingredients were noticeably fresh, and you could taste the difference. Whether it was the perfectly grilled shrimp or the succulent crab cakes, every bite was a testament to their dedication to sourcing the best seafood available.

As an eloquent reviewer, I must also mention the staff's generosity. They went above and beyond to ensure my satisfaction, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their attentiveness and kindness enhanced the overall dining experience.

In conclusion, Brown Bag Seafood Co. is a hidden gem in Chicago. With its amazing customer service, delicious fish sandwich, excellent quality seafood, and generous staff, it is clearly a standout in the city's seafood scene. If you're looking for a seafood experience that will leave you satisfied and craving for more, I highly recommend** Brown Bag Seafood Co.**

You might also want to check out the best seafood boil in Chicago.

Lowcountry South Loop

Highlights
Delicious seafood boil
Family friendly
Self-serve atmosphere
Fresh and quick service
Tasty cornbread

Walking into Lowcountry South Loop, I was immediately greeted by the enticing aroma of delicious seafood being boiled to perfection. The highlights of this seafood joint are not hard to find: with a family-friendly and laid-back self-serve atmosphere, it's a perfect place to bring your loved ones for a messy seafood feast.

As I approached the counter, the friendly staff guided me through the ordering process. I couldn't help but notice how fresh and quick the service was. Within moments, my tray was stacked high with a colorful array of juicy shrimp, plump crab legs, and delicate crawfish. The presentation alone was enough to make my mouth water.

But it wasn't just the seafood that impressed me. Lowcountry South Loop took it one step further by serving their dishes with a side of tasty cornbread. Each bite of the fluffy, slightly sweet bread perfectly complemented the rich flavors of the seafood.

As I dug into my seafood boil, I couldn't help but be amazed at the quality of the ingredients. The shrimp were plump and succulent, bursting with flavor. The crab legs were meaty and tender, requiring minimal effort to crack open. And the crawfish, oh, the crawfish! They were so deliciously seasoned and cooked to perfection that I found myself going back for more.

In conclusion, Lowcountry South Loop is a seafood lover's paradise. With its delicious seafood boil, family-friendly environment, and self-serve atmosphere, it truly stands out as one of the best seafood spots in Chicago. So, if you're looking for a place where you can roll up your sleeves and dive into a plate of seafood goodness, look no further than Lowcountry South Loop.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Chicago.

Chicago Oyster House

Highlights
Excellent food and service
High quality seafood options
Upscale dining atmosphere
Solidly executed main courses
Wide variety of appetizers

Chicago Oyster House is a hidden gem for seafood lovers in Chicago. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the upscale dining atmosphere that seamlessly blended elegance with a relaxed vibe. The attentive and knowledgeable staff ensured that every aspect of my dining experience was top-notch.

When it came to the food, Chicago Oyster House certainly delivered. The menu boasted a wide variety of appetizers that showcased the freshness and quality of their seafood. The oysters were plump and briny, an absolute delight for any oyster aficionado. And if you're not an oyster fan, fear not! The crab cakes were equally delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors and a crispy outer layer that left me wanting more.

As for the main courses, each dish was solidly executed, further establishing Chicago Oyster House as a seafood destination. The lobster tail was cooked to perfection, tender and succulent. The seafood linguine was a symphony of flavors, with generous portions of shrimp, scallops, and clams, all swimming in a fragrant garlic and white wine sauce.

What truly set Chicago Oyster House apart was the excellent service. The waitstaff went above and beyond to ensure that I had a memorable dining experience. Their attentiveness and knowledge of the menu made me feel like a valued guest.

In conclusion, Chicago Oyster House is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts in Chicago. With its excellent food, high-quality seafood options, and upscale dining atmosphere, it's a standout among the city's seafood establishments. So, if you're looking to indulge in the best seafood Chicago has to offer, make your way to Chicago Oyster House and prepare to be impressed.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Chicago Suburbs.

Lowcountry Lakeview

Highlights
Great food
Worth-it meal
Delicious
Friendly staff
Amazing atmosphere

When it comes to finding the best seafood in Chicago, Lowcountry Lakeview is definitely a hidden gem that should not be missed. From the moment I stepped into this seafood haven, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was amazing, with cozy wooden tables and a lively buzz that set the perfect backdrop for a seafood feast.

But let's get to the good stuff – the food. Lowcountry Lakeview certainly did not disappoint in this department. Every dish I tried was delicious and bursting with flavor. From the succulent shrimp to the perfectly seasoned crab legs, each bite was a true delight. The freshness of the seafood was unmistakable, leaving me craving for more.

Not only was the food outstanding, but the service was top-notch as well. The staff at Lowcountry Lakeview were incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure that my dining experience was nothing short of perfection. Their knowledge and expertise in seafood made for a truly enjoyable evening.

Although the prices at Lowcountry Lakeview may seem a bit steep, trust me, it is worth every penny. The quality of the food and the overall experience make it a worth-it meal that seafood lovers simply cannot miss.

In conclusion, if you're in the hunt for the best seafood in Chicago, look no further than Lowcountry Lakeview. With its great food, friendly staff, and amazing atmosphere, this restaurant is sure to leave you wanting more.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Cincinnati.

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

Highlights
Amazing atmosphere
Delicate calamari
To die for stuffed mushrooms
Perfectly cooked steak
Fresh and tasty king crabs

Walking into Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, I was immediately caught up in the amazing atmosphere. The dim lighting and elegant décor made me feel like I had stepped into a classic seafood restaurant.

To start off my seafood extravaganza, I ordered the calamari. I must say, it was an absolute delight. The calamari was delicate and perfectly fried, giving it a satisfying crunch with each bite. The accompanying dipping sauce added just the right amount of tanginess to the dish.

Next, I indulged in their to die for stuffed mushrooms. These bite-sized treats were filled with a mouthwatering mixture of crab, cheese, and herbs. The combination of flavors was simply heavenly, making me crave for more.

Moving on to the main event, I couldn't resist ordering a steak. The highlight of Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab is not just their seafood, but their perfectly cooked steak as well. The steak was seared to perfection, with a juicy and tender center that practically melted in my mouth.

Finally, I couldn't leave without trying their famous stone crabs. The king crabs were brought out to me fresh and cracked at the table. I savored every sweet and succulent bite, fresh as if they were just plucked from the ocean.

Overall, Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab left me feeling satisfied and impressed with their exceptional seafood dishes. Whether you're a seafood lover or a steak enthusiast, this place is a definite must-visit in Chicago.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Omaha.

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

Highlights
Outstanding service
Excellent food and drinks
Attentive and friendly staff
Perfect for special occasions

From the moment I walked into Eddie V's Prime Seafood, I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly welcome. The outstanding service I received throughout the evening truly elevated my dining experience.

Let's talk about the food. Oh, the food! The menu offers an impressive selection of fresh seafood options that are sure to please any seafood lover. From their melt-in-your-mouth lobster bisque to their perfectly seared scallops, each bite was a symphony of flavors that left me craving more. And let's not forget about the cocktails! The mixologists at Eddie V's are true artists, crafting unique and delightful drinks that perfectly complemented the seafood dishes.

The staff at Eddie V's Prime Seafood are not only knowledgeable about the menu but also incredibly attentive and friendly. It was evident that they take pride in providing exceptional customer service. They were more than happy to offer recommendations and accommodate any special requests, making every guest feel like a VIP.

With its elegant ambiance and impeccable service, Eddie V's Prime Seafood is the perfect place to celebrate those special occasions. Whether it's an anniversary, birthday, or just a memorable night out, this restaurant delivers an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, Eddie V's Prime Seafood has truly earned its place among the best seafood establishments in Chicago. With its outstanding service, excellent food and drinks, and attentive staff, it's a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts seeking a remarkable dining experience.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Grand Rapids.

Lure Fishbar - Chicago

Highlights
Beautiful restaurant
Excellent clam chowder
Fresh and tasty dishes
Exceptional service
Great rotating wine list

Walking into Lure Fishbar - Chicago, I was immediately taken aback by the restaurant's stunning beauty. The elegant decor, with its nautical accents and soft lighting, created an inviting and upscale atmosphere that set the stage for a delightful culinary journey.

One of the highlights of my visit was undoubtedly the clam chowder. This velvety and flavorful soup was a true standout. Each spoonful was filled with tender clams, aromatic herbs, and a creamy broth that had just the right amount of richness. It was like a warm, comforting hug on a chilly Chicago evening.

As I explored the menu, I discovered a wide array of fresh and tasty seafood dishes. Every bite was a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the kitchen. From the succulent lobster to the perfectly seared scallops, each dish was a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. Lure Fishbar - Chicago truly knows how to let the natural flavors of the seafood shine through.

The service at Lure Fishbar - Chicago was exceptional. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was enjoyable. They guided me through the menu, providing insightful recommendations and answering all my questions with enthusiasm.

To complement the outstanding cuisine, Lure Fishbar - Chicago boasts a great rotating wine list. The selection of wines perfectly complements the seafood offerings, and the knowledgeable staff is more than happy to help you find the perfect pairing for your meal.

Overall, my experience at Lure Fishbar - Chicago was sublime. From the beautiful ambiance to the excellent clam chowder and the fresh, flavorful seafood dishes, every aspect of the dining experience exceeded my expectations. Lure Fishbar - Chicago is a true gem in the city's seafood scene, and a must-visit for any seafood enthusiast.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Des Moines.

Shaw's Crab House

Highlights
Amazing service
Steamed mussels
Fresh seafood
Garlic shrimp
Fish tacos

Walking into Shaw's Crab House, I was greeted with a smile and the most amazing service I have ever experienced. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about seafood. It was evident that they were dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience.

My taste buds were in for a treat as I indulged in their steamed mussels. The plump, tender mussels were cooked to perfection and bathed in a broth bursting with flavors. Each bite was an explosion of the sea, leaving me craving for more.

Shaw's Crab House is renowned for its commitment to serving only the freshest seafood, and they certainly lived up to their reputation. The seafood selection was extensive, and the quality was impeccable. From succulent lobster to delicate oysters, each dish showcased the freshness of the ocean.

One dish that stood out was the garlic shrimp. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. The shrimps were perfectly cooked, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that was simply divine. The flavors melded harmoniously, making it a memorable highlight of the meal.

To switch things up, I decided to try their fish tacos that were recommended to me by the friendly waiter. The tacos were filled with generous portions of flaky fish, topped with tangy slaw and a zesty sauce. The combination of textures and flavors created a delightful explosion in every bite.

Overall, my visit to Shaw's Crab House was a true seafood extravaganza. The restaurant undoubtedly lived up to its reputation for serving some of the best seafood in Chicago. With its amazing service, steamed mussels, fresh seafood, garlic shrimp, and fish tacos, Shaw's Crab House is a must-visit for any seafood lover in the city.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Madison WI.

RPM Seafood

Highlights
Outstanding dinner
Variety of fresh seafood dishes
Impeccably cooked grilled salmon
Attentive staff and stunning lake view
Beautiful atmosphere

Upon entering RPM Seafood, I was immediately enchanted by the beautiful atmosphere. The sleek and modern decor, combined with stunning views of Lake Michigan, created the perfect setting for a seafood feast.

As I perused the menu, I was thrilled to find a variety of fresh seafood dishes. From oysters to lobster to sushi, the options were endless. I started my evening with a selection of oysters, each one more delectable than the last. The freshness was undeniable, making it clear that RPM Seafood takes pride in sourcing the highest quality seafood.

For my main course, I opted for the grilled salmon, and it was a decision I will never regret. The salmon was impeccably cooked, moist and tender with a perfectly grilled exterior. Each bite was an explosion of flavors that danced on my palate. It was a true masterpiece.

Aside from the outstanding dinner, what truly stood out was the attentive staff. They were knowledgeable, passionate, and eager to recommend the perfect pairing for each dish. Their expertise elevated the dining experience, making it even more memorable.

As I savored my meal, I couldn't help but admire the breathtaking view of the lake. It was a picturesque backdrop to an already remarkable dining experience.

In conclusion, RPM Seafood is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts in Chicago. The outstanding dinner, variety of fresh seafood dishes, impeccably cooked grilled salmon, attentive staff, and beautiful atmosphere make it one of the best seafood restaurants in the city.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Springfield MO.

Catch 35

Highlights
Flavorful seafood
Mouthwatering taste
Well-prepared dishes
Excellent rice preparation
Solid drinks

Catch 35 in Chicago is an absolute delight for seafood lovers like myself. From the moment I stepped in, I could tell that I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was inviting, with a touch of sophistication that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's dive into the star of the show - the seafood. Oh, how flavorful it was! Each dish I tried boasted a mouthwatering taste that left me wanting more. From the perfectly grilled salmon to the succulent scallops, every bite was a revelation. The chefs at Catch 35 truly know how to prepare seafood to perfection.

But let's not forget about the accompaniments. The rice preparation at Catch 35 was nothing short of excellent. It complemented the seafood dishes perfectly, adding a satisfying texture and flavor. I couldn't help but marvel at the attention to detail in every aspect of the meal.

Now, let's talk about the drinks. Catch 35 offers a range of solid drinks that pair beautifully with their seafood dishes. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or a crisp glass of wine, their drink menu has something for everyone. I highly recommend trying one of their expertly crafted cocktails to enhance your dining experience.

Overall, my visit to Catch 35 in Chicago was a true delight. From the flavorful seafood to the well-prepared dishes, this restaurant delivered on all fronts. If you're a seafood enthusiast looking for an exceptional dining experience, Catch 35 is definitely worth a visit.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Ann Arbor.

Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House

Highlights
Perfection in Dishes
Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff
Must-try Frog Legs and Crab Cake
Top Notch Dining Experience

From the moment I stepped foot into Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House, I knew I was in for a seafood extravaganza. The restaurant exuded an air of sophistication that made me excited for what was to come. The friendly and knowledgeable staff immediately made me feel welcome and ensured that I was well taken care of throughout my dining experience.

Now, let me tell you about the perfection in dishes that I encountered at Hugo's. Every bite I took was a burst of flavors that transported me to the depths of the ocean. The menu offers a wide variety of seafood options, but there were a couple of standout dishes that truly left a lasting impression.

First and foremost, the frog legs deserve a special mention. They were tender, succulent, and seasoned to perfection. The delicate meat practically melted in my mouth, leaving me wanting more. And let's not forget the crab cake, which was an absolute delight. The crab was fresh and flavorful, complemented by a crispy outer layer that added a satisfying crunch.

Beyond the incredible food, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House excels in creating a top-notch dining experience. The ambiance is elegant and inviting, making it the perfect place for a special occasion or a fancy night out. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with their seafood dishes, further enhancing the overall experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood in Chicago, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House should be at the top of your list. With their commitment to perfection in dishes, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and top-notch dining experience, you won't be disappointed. So, go ahead and indulge in a seafood feast that will leave your taste buds singing with delight.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Dayton Ohio.

McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks

Highlights
Amazing lunch
Friendly staff
Perfectly cooked food
Extraordinary experience
Best food in Chicago

Picture this: a delightful lunch filled with laughter, flavor, and unforgettable seafood. That is precisely what I experienced at McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks in Chicago. Let me tell you, this place truly knows how to make seafood lovers like me weak at the knees.

From the moment I walked in, the friendly staff made me feel welcome. They were knowledgeable, attentive, and their enthusiasm for the menu was infectious. It was clear that they were passionate about providing an extraordinary experience.

As I sat down, I couldn't help but admire the elegant ambiance and charming decor that created a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. But let's talk about the main event: the food.

Every dish that graced my table was perfectly cooked. The seafood was fresh, flavorful, and simply divine. I savored every morsel, from the delicate flakiness of the grilled salmon to the succulent tenderness of the pan-seared scallops. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that left me craving more.

Speaking of cravings, I still dream about the lobster bisque I had. The rich, velvety soup was like a warm embrace on a chilly Chicago day. It was heaven in a bowl, my taste buds dancing with joy.

When it comes to seafood, McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks is simply the best in Chicago. With their amazing lunch options, friendly staff, and dishes that are perfection on a plate, this restaurant has earned its place at the top of the seafood scene. Don't just take my word for it, though. Go and experience it yourself. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Traverse City.