10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago might not sit on the coast, but its culinary scene boasts some of the finest Seafood Restaurants in Chicago, rivaling coastal cities with fresh catches and inventive dishes. Whether you’re craving succulent crab legs, buttery lobster rolls, or perfectly seared scallops, the Windy City delivers an oceanic feast for every palate. From Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago to casual Takeout Restaurants Chicago, this list of the 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Chicago explores a variety of flavors and vibes. You’ll find Romantic Restaurants in Chicago for date nights, Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago for group outings, and even options that overlap with Healthy Restaurants Chicago or Outdoor Dining Chicago. Dive into this guide and discover why Chicago’s seafood scene is a hidden gem among the Best Restaurants Chicago has to offer.

Exploring the Seafood Scene Among Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago’s dining landscape is as diverse as its neighborhoods, offering everything from Italian Restaurants Chicago to Sushi Restaurants in Chicago and even Vegetarian Restaurants Chicago. But when it comes to seafood, the city shines with establishments that source fresh fish daily, flown in from both coasts and beyond. These Seafood Restaurants Chicago cater to all tastes—whether you’re after a quick lunch at Lunch Restaurants Chicago, a lavish dinner at Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago, or a laid-back meal with Food Delivery Services Chicago. The restaurants on this list stand out for their quality, creativity, and atmosphere, making them must-visits for locals and tourists alike. Let’s dive into the top 10 that elevate Chicago’s reputation among the Best Restaurants Chicago.

Top Seafood Restaurants in Chicago You Can’t Miss

Here’s where the real adventure begins. These Seafood Restaurants Chicago offer unforgettable dining experiences, blending fresh ingredients with culinary mastery. From upscale spots with Cocktail Bars in Chicago to cozy joints perfect for Brunch Spots Chicago, each restaurant brings something unique to the table. Whether you prefer Outdoor Dining Chicago with riverfront views or a cozy nook in a Romantic Restaurants in Chicago, this list has it all.

Shaw’s Crab House

Nestled in River North, Shaw’s Crab House is a Chicago icon among Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago. Since 1984, it’s been serving up classics like Alaskan king crab legs and East and West Coast oysters. The elegant main dining room, with its 1940s charm, contrasts with the lively oyster bar, offering two distinct vibes. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail from their stellar bar—one of the best Cocktail Bars in Chicago—and you’ve got a night to remember. It’s perfect for Romantic Restaurants in Chicago or a special family gathering at Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago.

Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

A transplant from Miami, Joe’s Seafood blends seafood with steakhouse flair, making it a standout among Restaurants in Chicago. Known for its Florida stone crab claws, flown in fresh daily, this spot also offers sustainable seafood and hand-carved steaks. The luxurious setting and attentive service make it a top pick for Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago and Romantic Restaurants in Chicago. Bonus: their key lime pie is a must-try dessert.

RPM Seafood

Overlooking the Chicago River, RPM Seafood is a multi-level marvel that screams sophistication. Its seafood towers—loaded with prawns, lobster, and oysters—are a showstopper, while dishes like miso black cod offer global flair. The expansive patio is a dream for Outdoor Dining Chicago, and the chic interior suits Romantic Restaurants in Chicago. It’s a pricier option, but worth it for a splurge among Best Restaurants Chicago.

Calumet Fisheries

For a no-frills experience, Calumet Fisheries on the South Side is a legend among Affordable Restaurants Chicago. This cash-only smokehouse, around since 1948, serves smoked salmon, trout, and fried shrimp straight from the counter. Eat in your car or at outdoor tables for a true Chicago vibe. It’s a gem for Takeout Restaurants Chicago and Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago seeking authentic flavor.

Half Shell

Tucked away in Lakeview, Half Shell is a dive-bar-meets-seafood-haven that’s been dishing out affordable delights since 1968. Think king crab legs, fried oysters, and the “Thirty-Two Pointer” platter—a crunchy mix of shrimp, frog legs, and more. It’s a top pick for Affordable Restaurants Chicago and Lunch Restaurants Chicago, with a nostalgic charm that keeps locals coming back.

Boston Fish Market

Located in Des Plaines (with a second spot in Wheeling), Boston Fish Market doubles as a market and restaurant, offering some of the freshest seafood in the Midwest. From Cajun-style shrimp to Chilean sea bass, the menu is expansive. It’s a bit of a trek, but ideal for Healthy Restaurants Chicago fans who want customizable, fresh options. Great for Takeout Restaurants Chicago too!

Brown Bag Seafood Co.

With multiple locations across Chicago, Brown Bag Seafood Co. brings fast-casual to the seafood game. Build your own meal—grilled salmon tacos, seared tuna salads, or lobster rolls—with a focus on sustainability. It’s a go-to for Healthy Restaurants Chicago and Lunch Restaurants Chicago, offering quick bites that don’t skimp on flavor.

Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House

In the Gold Coast, Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House pairs fresh seafood with Gibsons’ steakhouse pedigree. Oysters, frog legs, and seasonal fish shine here, alongside a killer wine list. The warm, inviting space makes it a hit for Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago and Romantic Restaurants in Chicago. Try the signature desserts for a sweet finish.

Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp

A riverbank shack since the 1940s, Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp is all about fried perfection. Their jumbo shrimp, breaded with a secret family recipe, are crispy and juicy—perfect for Takeout Restaurants Chicago or a quick stop at Lunch Restaurants Chicago. It’s affordable, casual, and a local favorite among Seafood Restaurants Chicago.

Bar Mar by José Andrés

In River North, Bar Mar dazzles with Spanish-inspired seafood from chef José Andrés. Think smoked oysters, ceviche, and caviar cones, all served in a chic space with an octopus sculpture overhead. It’s a standout for Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago and Cocktail Bars in Chicago, blending whimsy with top-tier quality.

Why These Seafood Spots Stand Out Among Best Restaurants Chicago?

What makes these Seafood Restaurants Chicago the cream of the crop? It’s not just the food—though the freshness and creativity are unmatched—it’s the experience. Some, like RPM Seafood and Joe’s, offer Outdoor Dining Chicago with stunning views, while others, like Calumet Fisheries, keep it real with a gritty, authentic feel. You’ll find overlap with Italian Restaurants Chicago (think RPM’s pastas), Sushi Restaurants in Chicago (Bar Mar’s raw offerings), and even Healthy Restaurants Chicago (Brown Bag’s lean proteins). These spots cater to all, from Vegan Restaurants Chicago fans seeking plant-based sides to Barbecue Restaurants Chicago lovers who’d enjoy smoked fish. They’re the Best Restaurants Chicago for a reason—versatile, delicious, and unforgettable.

FAQs:

What is the customer support number for Shaw’s Crab House?
You can reach Shaw’s Crab House at (312) 527-2722 for reservations or questions about their offerings among Fine Dining Restaurants Chicago.
Who is the founder of Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab?
Joe’s was originally founded by Joseph Weiss in Miami; the Chicago location is managed by Lettuce Entertain You, a key player in Restaurants in Chicago.
How many employees does RPM Seafood employ?
RPM Seafood, a standout among Seafood Restaurants Chicago, likely has 100-150 staff across its multi-level venue, though exact figures fluctuate.
What is the average salary at Calumet Fisheries?
As a family-run gem among Affordable Restaurants Chicago, staff wages are estimated at $15-$20/hour, typical for small-scale operations.
Where is the headquarters of Half Shell located?
Half Shell operates from its single Lakeview spot at 676 W Diversey Pkwy, making it a local favorite for Lunch Restaurants Chicago.
What are the major products at Boston Fish Market?
Known for fresh catches like salmon and shrimp, Boston Fish Market also serves prepared dishes, appealing to fans of Healthy Restaurants Chicago.
Who founded Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House?
Hugo Ralli and Steve Lombardo launched this spot in 1997, blending seafood with steakhouse vibes for Family-Friendly Restaurants Chicago.
What is the customer support number for Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp?
Call (312) 225-2113 to connect with Lawrence’s, a classic among Takeout Restaurants Chicago with decades of history.
How many employees work at Bar Mar by José Andrés?
Bar Mar, a chic addition to Cocktail Bars in Chicago, employs around 80-100 staff to maintain its high-end service.
What are the financial insights for Brown Bag Seafood Co.?
With seven locations, this chain among Seafood Restaurants Chicago shows strong growth, though exact financials remain private.