Best Seafood in Chicago (2025)

A South Deering landmark since 1928, this takeout-only smokehouse turns out smoked shrimp, trout, and fried fish by the river. Reopened in June 2024 after a fire, it remains an America’s Classics icon praised by Eater and local news.

Family-run since 1946 with one of Chicago’s last hardwood smokehouses, Hagen’s sells fresh fish, smokes your catch, and fries to order. Frequently recommended by Eater Chicago and local reporters for its shrimp po’boy and smoked salmon.

Chicago’s longest-running crab house (since 1968) hides in a Lakeview basement. Cash-only, no-reservations swagger, with king crab, snow crab, oysters, and fried smelts. Regularly lauded by The Infatuation and Eater Chicago.

A tiny, seaside-leaning spot channeling Spain’s Atlantic coast—think boquerones, seafood fideos, and Basque cake. A perennial Michelin Bib Gourmand and frequent pick on Eater’s seafood lists.

Chef B.K. Park’s serene omakase counter focuses on pristine sourcing and rice craft. A Michelin-starred essential for sushi lovers seeking an intimate, quietly luxurious experience.

A beer hall for oysters and sustainably sourced seafood, The Publican remains a West Loop touchstone. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and frequently cited by national editors for its lively, community-first spirit.

Pilsen’s electric mariscos palace from the teams behind Obelix, Taqueria Chingón, and Le Bouchon. Eater Chicago feted its shrimp gobernador; The Infatuation raved about the aguachile and whole-fish tacos.

BYOB, big-spirited Nayarit-style feasts—langostinos, stuffed lobster, and mixed mariscadas—served in a lively room. Long praised by The Infatuation and loved by locals for celebratory platters.

A South Side favorite for Nayarit-style seafood—think pescado zarandeado, garlic crab, and aguachiles. Celebrated over the years by Chicago Reader and trusted by generations of mariscos fans.

Old-school, cash-only counter serving fried shrimp, fish chips, frog legs, and more since the neighborhood was industrial. A cult favorite for quick, crispy seafood with unmistakable Chicago character.

Family-run and boisterous, this Lincoln Park standby calls itself Chicago’s oldest crab house. Expect generous crab legs, oysters, chowder, and a lively scene noted by local tourism and longtime diners.