50 Best Seafood Restaurants in Chicago

“Chef's Special Cocktail Bar offers a memorable dining experience with its unique and delicious dishes. The knowledgeable mixologist, Nora, crafts ten specialty drinks while providing excellent service. Popular menu items include walnut shrimp, green beans, fried rice, and Sweet and Sour Chicken, all expertly prepared. This popular Chicago establishment is known for its exceptional food and attentive staff, making it an ideal spot for a date or special occasion. Reservations are recommended.“

“Gioia Chicago, nestled in the heart of the vibrant West Loop, is a captivating Italian restaurant that delivers an unparalleled dining experience. Owned and operated by authentic Italians, including an Italian chef, Gioia offers a harmonious blend of traditional Italian favorites and innovative creations. The moment you step into Gioia, you're enveloped by a warm, inviting ambiance that perfectly complements the exquisite dishes to come. The attention to detail in both decor and service is a testament to the passion and dedication of the team behind this establishment. The menu at Gioia is a true celebration of Italian cuisine, with dishes that burst with genuine flavors. The pasta dishes, made with fresh, handmade ingredients, are a standout, with the Tagliatelle al Tartufo being a particular highlight. The Burrata, flown in from Italy, is a creamy, decadent starter that melts in your mouth. Beyond the food, Gioia's wine selection is impeccable, offering a curated list of Italian wines that pair beautifully with each course. The staff's knowledge and enthusiasm for their offerings enhance the dining experience, making recommendations that elevate every bite and sip. Whether you're a local or a visitor, dining at Gioia is an experience you won't soon forget, and one you'll be eager to repeat.“

“El Che Steakhouse & Bar offers excellent service and a pleasant atmosphere, making it a great choice for special occasions. The starting courses, such as the endive salad and provelata, are highly praised. The restaurant also features an impressive wine list. While the "Party Steak" is pricey, other menu items like the Empanadas, Filet, and Beef fat fries are well-regarded and reasonably priced. The service, particularly from Marco Gonzalez, is impeccable. The food presentation is impressive, and the overall atmosphere is enjoyable. It's a recommended spot for those seeking a memorable steakhouse experience in Chicago.“

“Lure Fishbar offers a variety of delicious seafood options, including superb and fresh oysters, tasty tempura lobster sushi roll, and a chef's medley of fresh fish. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and attentive staff. The Bloody Mary with bleu cheese stuffed olives and saffron mussels are standouts. The lobster roll, mac and cheese, and sea bass with potato purée are must-tries. Half-off wine bottles are available during certain days. The restaurant is highly recommended for those seeking fresh and delicious seafood options.“

“Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar offers a delightful dining experience with a mix of East and West-inspired cuisine. The Happy Hour Oyster and dishes like tuna crudo and braised beef are highlights, showcasing balanced flavors. The attentive staff provides excellent service, making you feel at home. The cozy speakeasy downstairs adds to the fun atmosphere. A neighborhood gem with a welcoming host and a variety of delectable dishes to try, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.“

“Sueños X Soho Friends offers a unique and intimate dining experience, perfect for smaller parties. The menu is not extensive but features distinctive dishes. Standout items include the Caliente en los Trópicos cocktail, Ceviche, Tuna Tostada, and Mussels. The Tuna Tostada is particularly noteworthy, as it is an original dish that differs from typical expectations. The service is quick and efficient, making it a recommended spot for a memorable meal. The restaurant's presentation and quality of food have been highly praised, with some considering it one of the best dining experiences they've had. The tasting and pairing menu, consisting of five courses with multiple dishes and cocktail & wine pairings, is highly recommended for an enhanced experience. The chef's expertise is highly regarded, and the service is exceptional, making for a memorable evening at Sueños X Soho Friends.“

“Andros Taverna offers an exceptional Greek dining experience with a phenomenal atmosphere and impeccable food. The menu features delectable dishes like moussaka and fish, as well as a well-crafted dessert selection. While the service can be inconsistent at times, the hospitable staff and delicious cuisine make Andros a favorite neighborhood Greek spot.“

“mfk. restaurant offers a delicious dining experience with top-notch service in an intimate setting. The menu features incredible flavors and beautiful presentations, with dishes like the fish of the day (branzino), quail, and pork belly standing out. The potato and smoked piquillo croquettes, skate and chips, and fideo with saffron cream sauce are must-try items. The burnt basque cheesecake is a delicious way to end the meal. Whether you're familiar with Spanish cuisine or not, mfk. restaurant will impress you with its unique and tasty offerings. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a fantastic meal in a warm and inviting atmosphere.“

“Leña Brava offers very tasty food and good drinks. Customers enjoyed the volcanes starter, Chilean Bass, Turf Platter, Mezcal margaritas, and Molé Enchiladas. The skinny margarita was impressive. The staff, including Salvatore the sous chef, was attentive and friendly, providing great suggestions. Dishes like fish, guac, salmon, and steak were fantastic. Customers can't wait to go back and try more.“

“MingHin Cuisine offers delicious dishes, such as Siu Mai, sesame chicken, pork fried rice, and chive pancakes, which resemble dumplings. The service is friendly and attentive, always ready to refill waters. The restaurant has a spacious and comfortable atmosphere, making it a great dining experience. While it can be on the pricier side, the food's quality and service make it a top choice in Chinatown. Be aware that there are two separate menus to order from.“

“Azul is a restaurant located right on the river with a rooftop deck offering stunning views. The food is good, with tasty cocktails and a choice of drinks, including a pitcher of Paloma's. The atmosphere is lively, with great music, but can be overwhelming due to the loud volume. The service, however, is lacking, with staff often on their phones and unattentive. The restaurant's policy of charging a $25 cake cutting fee is seen as tacky. With potential for improvement, Azul may appeal to the 20-something crowd but may not meet the expectations of older generations.“

“Bar Mar by José Andrés offers a great atmosphere with delicious dishes like Neptune Pillows, Pulpo en Aceite y Ajo, and patata Bravas. While Rossejat was a bit salty, the restaurant accommodates allergies well. Service is outstanding, though birthday celebrations may lack special recognition. Highly recommended for creative and tasty food.“

“Half Shell is a cozy restaurant known for its delicious food, friendly service, and fun atmosphere. The oysters are fresh and reasonably priced, and the draft beers are a great value at $4.50. The bar is quaint and the restaurant has a lively upstairs patio. The service is exceptional and the food is always fresh and tasty. The girls' bathroom is a highlight with its unique decor. It is a cash-only restaurant with an ATM on site. This place is a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.“

“Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House offers a delightful dining experience with delicious food, professional service, and a great atmosphere. Their famous crab cakes are a must-try, and the menu boasts a range of delicious options. The staff, led by General Manager Mark O'Sullivan, provides attentive and friendly service, ensuring a wonderful evening. Servers like Josiah go above and beyond, offering knowledgeable and honest recommendations to elevate the dining experience. From the Dover Sole to the seafood tower, every dish is expertly prepared and presented. With its great food, excellent service, and lively atmosphere, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House is a must-visit destination in Chicago.“

“Diego is a fantastic little spot in West Town with a Mexican-inspired menu. The tacos, especially the fish, shrimp, and steak ones are highly recommended, as well as the burger and burrito. The karaage was a surprise favorite, and the cocktails were well-balanced and creative. The staff, including bartenders Fabian & Derrick, provide excellent service in a warm and homely atmosphere. Owners, husband and wife, ensure that customers have a great time. Add a pitcher of house margarita for a very enjoyable evening.“

“Calumet Fisheries in Chicago offers top-notch smoked seafood that is a must-try for any visitor. Known for their garlic salmon, shrimp, and smoked salmon, this place stands out for its delicious offerings. With fair prices and a unique selection, it's a gem on the far south side. Fans of seafood won't be disappointed by the quality of the frogs legs, shrimp, and scallops. Despite a recent fire, customers are eagerly awaiting the reopening of this special spot.“

“Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a restaurant known for its excellent service and high-quality food. The atmosphere is dimly lit, creating a unique and intimate dining experience. Recommended dishes include the filet, thick-cut bacon, truffle mac and cheese, sourdough bread, lyonnaise and wedge salads, ribeye steak, fried chicken, steak frites, and mashed potatoes. The salmon is also available, cooked to a medium finish. The portions are large, and the drinks are excellent. The service is attentive, with servers appearing at the right times. The restaurant is located on two levels, with the lower level being darker and the upper level having more light. Overall, Bavette's Bar & Boeuf is a great dining experience with excellent food and service.“

“Armitage Alehouse is a neighborhood bar serving amazing food and drinks. The pub fare shines, with standout dishes like crispy hash brown cakes and avocado toast. The expert bartender offers top-notch service, making visitors feel welcome. The atmosphere is cozy, with an interesting decor and a great vibe. With a wide range of options, including vegetarian choices, and a patio area with heaters, Armitage Alehouse is a must-visit spot. Reservations are recommended, and the friendly staff ensures a great dining experience.“

“Cindy's Rooftop is a popular rooftop bar known for its beautiful city views and amazing cocktails. The space is gorgeous, and the food, including the chicken, lamb pasta, and appetizers, is delicious. However, reservations are limited, and the tables are close together, creating a communal atmosphere. The rooftop can get crowded, especially on nice days, but the staff is efficient, and the overall experience is highly enjoyable.“

“Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp is a popular restaurant known for its fresh, hot, and delicious seafood dishes. Despite occasional long wait times, the generous portions and quality of the food, such as their shrimp and fish and chips, make it a staple in the community. The restaurant is conveniently located and has ample parking, as well as wheelchair accessibility.“

“Prime & Provisions Steakhouse is a top-notch dining spot with attentive service and delicious food. Their oysters and Steak Frites are impeccable, while the banana pie is a must-try. The menu offers a variety of options, from salads to filets, all cooked to perfection. The tomahawk ribeye, strips, and filet are highly recommended, as are the mouth-watering mushrooms. The dining room is attractive, and the staff, like Kyle, are knowledgeable and provide excellent service. While the prices may be on the higher side, the quality of the food and the overall experience make it worth the cost. A great choice for a special dinner or a steakhouse weekend.“

“Maple & Ash offers a beautiful setting with terrific service. Although some found the dishes too salty, others were impressed with the well-prepared seafood tower. The 18oz dry aged ribeye was a hit, despite a mishap in cooking. The standout dining experience is attributed to the exceptional manager, Julius, who ensures every guest feels special. The succulent steaks and fresh seafood are crafted with care, delivering bold flavors and impeccable presentation. For an upscale dining experience in Chicago, Maple & Ash, with Julius at the helm, is highly recommended.“

“Dolo Restaurant and Bar serves a variety of dishes, with most of them being enjoyable. Their dim sum offerings are traditional and well-received. Although service can be slow and unfriendly at times, the restaurant's competitive pricing makes it a great value. The atmosphere can be loud, especially when the restaurant is full, and parking can be a challenge. Despite some drawbacks, the restaurant's good food and affordability make it worth a visit.“

“Shaw's Crab House in Chicago offers high-quality, expensive crab dishes and excellent meats. The restaurant provides friendly service, although not very fast. Customers return yearly and are never disappointed. Reservations through OpenTable ensure minimal wait time. The knowledgeable waitstaff assists in navigating the menu. The Oyster Bar serves delicious kale/asparagus salad, tuna tartar, and Negroni. The energetic atmosphere and delightful bartender add to the enjoyable experience. Perfect for business dinners, new guests are sure to love Shaw's.“

“Luke's Lobster City Hall serves delicious seafood, including their popular lobster sandwich. The friendly staff makes ordering easy, despite the simple menu. While prices may be high, the food is worth the trip downtown. Enjoy the amazing vibe, smell, and customer service, plus free filtered water. Try the seafood flight to sample their various rolls.“

“Brown Bag Seafood Co. offers fresh and flavorful seafood with great service. The Lobster roll and curry crab cakes are popular choices. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating and a variety of sauces. The fish and chips special during happy hour is a must-try. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food makes it worth it. A great spot to visit and enjoy a delicious seafood meal.“

“Gibsons Italia, a renowned restaurant in downtown Chicago, offers a dining experience that consistently impresses guests. From the delectable Steak, Pasta, and sides to the indulgent Baked Alaska dessert, the menu delights the palate. Complementing the exceptional food is the restaurant's beautiful setting, with stunning views of the city and river. Attentive service from staff like Ugo further enhances the overall experience, making Gibsons Italia a must-visit destination for those seeking amazing food, beautiful surroundings, and a wonderful dining experience.“

“Parson's Chicken & Fish is a fun, parent-friendly restaurant with a great outdoor patio atmosphere. They offer a variety of tasty food and drinks, including a delicious spice chicken sandwich and gluten-free options like burgers with decent buns. The menu also features unique pickle drinks and seasonal slushees. Kids can enjoy free milkshakes, nuggets, and arcade games while parents relax. The staff is patient and accommodating, making it a favorite spot for families. Overall, a neighborhood gem with solid food, drinks, and a welcoming environment for all.“

“HOLU Asian Steakhouse offers an exceptional dining experience. The waitstaff is attentive, and the omakase-style BBQ served tableside is the most authentic experience. The dry-aged meat surpasses traditional steakhouses. With outstanding service, including exceptional bartenders and ambiance, HOLU Asian Steakhouse delivers a 10/10 experience.“

“Big Star West Town offers a delightful dining experience with its freshly made flour tortillas, delicious tacos, and attentive service. The patio is dog-friendly and can accommodate larger groups. The menu boasts a variety of Mexican dishes, including queso with chorizo and mushrooms, Al pastor tacos, crispy shrimp tacos, and more. The restaurant provides a fun ambiance with great music selections on vinyl. With its excellent service, tasty food, and lovely patio spot, Big Star West Town is a great spot for a fun night out with friends or family.“

“Remington's is a consistently excellent restaurant located conveniently near Millennium Park and other Loop attractions. The menu features delicious steaks, expertly prepared, as well as other standout dishes like smoked trout appetizers and scallops specials. The dining room has a beautiful ambiance, and the bar offers a great spot to enjoy a meal and watch sports. Remington's is a reliable choice for a satisfying dining experience at reasonable prices.“

“Penumbra is a family-owned restaurant with attentive service and honest drinks. The steak sizes are perfect, although some dishes like the flat iron steak may have too many tendons. The rib eye and New York steak are recommended, along with the fantastic shrimp appetizer. The ambiance is comfortable and easily accessible, with the option for screened-in tables for privacy. The dimly lit atmosphere features lively Latin music, making it a great spot for a date night. Vegetarian options are flavorful, and classic cocktails are available, served by friendly and attentive staff like Vanessa.“

“Haire's Famous Gulf Shrimp is a beloved Black-owned restaurant that has been serving the local community for years. The reviews praise the restaurant's delicious food, particularly the tasty spaghetti and the well-seasoned shrimp. Customers appreciate the quick and efficient service, as well as the chill and welcoming ambiance, which features a memorial area honoring the restaurant's founder. While one customer had a negative experience with a rude staff member, they still acknowledge the excellence of the food and the pleasant interactions with other staff members. Overall, Haire's Famous Gulf Shrimp is a highly recommended destination for those seeking an exceptional seafood dining experience.“

“Fora is a popular restaurant known for its delightful dining experience. The staff, especially Ben, provide exceptional service and a warm welcome. The menu offers delicious options, including mouthwatering mimosas and a variety of tempting dishes. Customers appreciate the restaurant's beautiful setting and plan to return for patio dining.“

“Silver Seafood Restaurant, located near the corner of N Broadway and W Lawrence in the Chicago uptown area, offers a low-profile dining experience that is well-regarded. The restaurant stands out with its inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food. The menu boasts a wide variety of seafood options, with high-quality and fresh ingredients, resulting in exquisite flavors. Particularly, the grilled salmon is a highlight. The restaurant offers $10 lunch plates, including options like beef with Chinese broccoli and fried smelts with jalapeños, which have received excellent feedback. Despite the minor drawback of limited food pictures in the menu, the detailed descriptions enable informed choices. The restaurant's family-friendly ambiance, with staff who are kind to children, adds to its charm. Notably, the location might be a slight drawback, but it does offer free parking at an adjacent strip mall. Overall, the exceptional cuisine and welcoming atmosphere make Silver Seafood Restaurant a recommended dining destination.“

“The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant is a wonderful venue for events, featuring a scenic outdoor patio and attentive staff. The servers and bartender are praised for their helpfulness and excellence, contributing to a perfect wedding experience. The restaurant also boasts a hidden jazz club in the basement and offers delicious food, including exceptional meat dishes and delightful bread rolls. The service is highly commendable, with managers and servers providing excellent attention to guests. Valet parking is an added convenience. Overall, it is a highly recommended restaurant for its atmosphere, service, and cuisine.“

“Gene & Georgetti offers an exceptional dining experience with outstanding food, service, and atmosphere. The restaurant accommodates large parties and provides quiet tables with attentive waiters. The menu features delicious dishes, including folet, branzino, and perfectly cooked steaks, ensuring a wonderful experience for all guests.“

“Alegrias Seafood is a cozy Mexican marisco spot in Wicker Park that offers excellent food and friendly service. The Charola mixta is a popular choice, with a variety of seafood including mussels, shrimp, prawns, and crab legs. The Nayarit style dishes come highly recommended and the seafood specials are described as "freaking good." However, some customers have mentioned that the service could be improved, with one particular incident of slow and inattentive service on a busy night. The restaurant does not have wheelchair accessibility and only offers street parking. If you have dietary restrictions, note that they serve all seafood and fajitas meat options. Overall, Alegrias Seafood is a great spot for delicious seafood, especially if you enjoy dishes like oysters, octopus, and garlic bread dipped in oil sauce.“

“Brown Bag Seafood Co. near the Willis Tower offers excellent flavors and friendly service. The tuna bowl and salmon Caesar salad were delicious choices, with the Sriracha sauce highly recommended. The shrimp and grits were a standout dish, with creamy grits and a flavorful jalapeño sauce. The staff, including Monica, Jake, and Shea, provided quick service and a welcoming atmosphere. Be sure to try the fish and chips cod!“

“Lawrence Fish Market in Albany Park is a hidden gem for sushi lovers. The fresh and flavorful fish, especially the smoked salmon, is a favorite among customers. The smaller combination tray is perfect for sharing, with options like California rolls and salmon nigiri. The restaurant offers a wide variety of sushi, including special and regular rolls, like the popular Rainbow Dragon Roll. The ambiance resembles a discount Asian store, but don't be fooled - the food is top-notch. Customers appreciate the efficient service and thoughtful plating, making it a great stop for sushi on the go. Whether dining in or taking out, Lawrence Fish Market is a must-try for delicious and reasonably priced sushi.“

“All Star Seafood and Sports offers a great dining experience. The menu is flavorful and reasonably priced, with standout dishes like the shrimp scampi pasta. The drinks are also good. This sports bar serves great seafood and has great service, making it a must-visit spot.“

“Chi-Latin Restaurant & Bar is a hidden gem that offers delicious Latin cuisine. The flavors in their dishes are incredible, showing that the ingredients are thoughtfully put together. Customers highly recommend trying the fish entree, chicken enchiladas, and tamales. The small family-owned restaurant boasts a modern decor, with a cozy dining room that seats about 36 people. The atmosphere is enjoyable and memorable, with festive music playing in the background. The service is top-notch, with the owner and his daughter greeting guests warmly and explaining the menu offerings in detail. The food is excellent, with every dish being fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Customers appreciate the authenticity of the regional Latin cuisine served at Chi-Latin, giving them a true taste of Latin flavors. Overall, Chi-Latin Restaurant & Bar provides a welcoming atmosphere, exceptional service, and delicious food that will make diners want to come back for more.“

“El Nuevo Mexicano is a favorite among Mexican food lovers. The restaurant serves delicious nachos, arranged in a nice circle with every chip coated perfectly. The enchiladas are a must-try, with amazing flavors that will leave you wondering where they've been all your life. Vegetarian options like vegan fajitas with seitan and vegetarian enchiladas are also available. While some dishes may not impress, the Camarones en Chile Ancho Con Piñones is a highlight, with shrimps simmered in a rich and zesty sauce. The cozy atmosphere and efficient service make it a great spot to grab a meal before catching a movie.“

“Flight Club Chicago is an excellent restaurant and entertainment spot, known for its top-notch service and trendy atmosphere. The staff, including server Josh, go above and beyond to make customers feel special, as seen in their attentive gestures during birthdays or work events. The menu offers delicious food, with highly-rated dishes like flavorful pork and fantastic buns. Overall, Flight Club Chicago is a must-visit for an enjoyable evening with friends or a memorable date night.“

“Lowcountry Lakeview is a restaurant that offers a taste of the Cajun cuisine. The weekday special is a popular choice, with the Cajun weak sauce being a customer favorite for its perfect seasoning. The restaurant provides gloves and bibs for a comfortable dining experience, and the sinks in the middle of the restaurant allow for easy cleanup. While the customer service has been reported to have declined, with some delays in food service, the food itself is considered serviceable and reasonably priced. The restaurant is recommended for those looking to explore Cajun flavors without a full dive into the world of Cajun boils, with the combo dishes providing ample portions. Overall, Lowcountry Lakeview offers a decent dining experience for those seeking a taste of Cajun cuisine.“

“14 Parish offers a vibrant atmosphere with great music and an attractive setting. The service can be a bit slow at times, but the food is the real star. Highlights include the delicious Rasta Pasta, flavorful curry, and the delectable chicken. While the portions are substantial, some dishes like the cabbage may be too spicy for some. The cocktails are just average, but the overall experience makes 14 Parish a great spot for a night out.“

“D Cuisine is a restaurant that offers Cantonese cuisine, often regarded as one of the best in the city. The setting is modern and clean, providing a more delicate and authentic experience compared to other North American iterations. The food is flavorful and served hot at a fast pace. The restaurant offers complimentary tea, and it is a BYOB establishment, with a Target nearby for convenience. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with staff attentive to the needs of customers with disabilities. Despite the delicious food, there were some issues with customer service, including uneven delivery of dishes and lack of water service. Overall, D Cuisine provides a unique and tasty dining experience, but there is room for improvement in their service.“

“Butcher and the Bear is a delightful restaurant that consistently delivers exceptional food and service. The steaks are praised, especially the mushrooms, carrots, and asparagus. Desserts are a highlight, with the carrot cake and key lime pie being standouts. The service is top-notch, with servers like Kat and Wallie providing excellent hospitality. The menu offers a range of options, including the impressive wagyu board and salads. The ambiance is dimly lit and romantic, with decor that's Instagram-worthy. With its exceptional food, service, and atmosphere, Butcher and the Bear is a "go-to" option for a memorable dining experience.“

“Elia Chicago offers a pleasant dining experience, particularly for an early dinner outdoors. The food is very good and good value, with dishes such as seafood appetizers, salmon, and sea bass being highlights. Service is usually good, with staff being polite, courteous, and attentive. The atmosphere is relaxing, making it an ideal spot for a enjoyable evening. Despite occasional slow service due to staffing issues, the overall experience is positive, making it a great choice for a delicious and enjoyable meal.“

“Hawksmoor Chicago offers a flawless dining experience, even in its early days. The restaurant serves perfect steaks with a great crust, cooked to perfection, and wonderful sides. Friendly and attentive service is reminiscent of the original Hawksmoor, with incredible cocktails and a variety of options, including a Full Fat Old Fashioned. Vegetarian options are also available, such as mushroom Wellington and sides. The ambiance is welcoming and charming, with an impressive wine selection. The restaurant's attention to detail and commitment to quality result in exquisite food and service, making it a must-visit destination.“