Alegrias Seafood

"Alegrias is on a stretch of Ashland teeming with mariscos restaurants. Naturally, you might wonder: What makes this West Town spot so special? Is it because it’s BYOB? That there’s a sidewalk patio and garage-style windows? Charmingly chaotic nautical decor and a goofy shark painting ushering you to the upper level? Yes to all of the above. But our love for this place is primarily because of the incredible seafood. Like a platter of prawns swimming in a buttery Nayarit sauce begging to have their little heads sucked clean, or an entire stuffed lobster crammed with so much tender seafood it’s obscene. There’s nowhere we’d rather go with a group, where the meal is guaranteed to include satisfied groans, discarded shells, empty bottles of hot sauce, and joy." - adrian kane, john ringor, veda kilaru

"Mexican seafood served in large quantities reels in diners at this bustling West Town spot. Start with ceviche while perusing the rest of the menu, which includes Nayarit-style prawns, octopus, mussels, crab legs, and combination platters meant to be shared among several people. The BYOB policy is also ideal for groups, with sangria and margarita mix available to add spirits to." - Samantha Nelson, Eater Staff

"Mexican seafood — mariscos — has seen a spike in popularity over the past few years in Chicago. But let’s not lose sight that there’s a great tradition of mariscos restaurants in the city, particularly in West Town. Try one of the family platters with heaping portions of Nayarit-style stuffed lobster, prawns, and more. Also, fans of fried snapper should be ready to stuff their stomachs. Alegrias is BYOB." - Samantha Nelson, Eater Staff

"Alegrias is on a stretch of Ashland teeming with mariscos restaurants. You might wonder: What makes this West Town spot stand out? Is it because it’s BYOB? Or is it the charmingly chaotic nautical decor and a goofy shark painting ushering you to the upper level? Yes to all of the above. But our love for this place is primarily because of the incredible seafood—like a platter of prawns swimming in a buttery Nayarit sauce, or an entire stuffed lobster crammed with so much tender seafood it’s obscene. Bring a group of your hungriest friends to one of Chicago's best restaurants and get to work cracking and peeling. " - veda kilaru

"This very casual spot in Wicker Park feels like it’s one folding chair away from being a takeout joint. But Alegrias is a sit-down restaurant with incredible seafood, and the atmosphere feels like a constant party. What you’re going to want to order here is the shellfish—specifically the prawns (which come in a delicious, spicy broth that you should soak up with fries) and lobster (which has a seafood stuffing). It’s BYOB, great for groups, and perfect for having a good time." - adrian kane, john ringor, veda kilaru