Goose Island Shrimp House

I’ve been hearing and passing by this place for so many years. First off, the jumbo shrimp is absolutely delicious but for $20 I got 7 pieces. No problem this place is a quality over quantity. Clam strips were delicious and a good deal for $2. Mild sauce was average. Someone recommended the coleslaw and I don’t know why. It was the most watered down worst coleslaw I’ve had in years. Never again. I’ll be back for the shrimp. I’ll try the fish. But they can do better with the sauces and definitely the coleslaw. Keep up the good work and let’s keep supporting local businesses.

This place is a Chicago staple! And a Chicago Gem!...l love shrimp. Shrimp cocktail. Fried shrimp. Shrimp dipped in Hoffman House sauce. Goose Island Shrimp They have been doing business at that address since 1973. No tables, carry out business eat in your car type of place. But I love shrimp and Goose Island's version is as good as it gets. There is no such thing as bad shrimp. I recommend buying a sack of fried jumbo shrimp with a side of cole slaw and Goose Island's home-made pink hot sauces. Nothing tastes as so good, not even fried chicken. The shrimp is rich in flavor and the crunchy batter is from a different world, super delicious. 100% recommend!

Ya'll aint never lived until you've been out partying to close down the 2am bar, then got Jim's Original, then went back out to close down the 4am bar, then came to Goose Island and watched the sunrise as you stumble home. Chicago's oldest and best spots are cash only for latenight, so keep them bills on you, because with long wait times becuase it's all made to order here, you might miss out locating an ATM. The decor is no nonsense, not trying to keep people here to hang out, it's a dash sort of place. Service is pretty good considering their demographic and business model. My usual order is a pound of jumbo shrimp, half pound of scallops, half pound of fish, fried clams and fries. 3 house sauces, lemon juice, hot sauce and ketchup. Hot sauce and lemon on everythjing, ketchip for fries and house sauce for shrimp dipping. Be patient as it can be a little crazy, it's not as streamlined becuase of the fryer or like other latenight spots. Chicago is a beef town so after eating polish's and vienna, italian beef's, and Mexican it's a nice change of pace, it's not actually lighter, but less of a gut buster. It's really more of a textural thing with fried seafood. Places like these can only exist walking/public transpo metro markets unlike my old home in Socal. The nostalgia only works when it's real nostaligia. I was shown this place by a friend who grew up here and having been so many times now I feel it too, but to the uninitiated or visitor it doesn't mean as much, until it does.

First time here. The place is small and take out only. It was pretty busy when we went in, but our food didn't take too long to be ready. Everything is a la cart. The jumbo shrimp were good, but for the amount you pay, you could have a few more shrimp for almost 20$ a lbs. and they are pretty skimpy of the French fries. Potato salad was okay, but the coleslaw was better. I asked to try all the sauces, so I had to pay for each one, but sorry to say they were nothing special or any different that I don't get included in my fried shrimp meals from places I go to on the South-East Side of Chicago. I might try them again if in the area, but finding parking is a problem. Customer service itself was okay.

Still a hole in a wall but the cashier was funny and their system works. My food wasn't as fresh as I remember it being in the past but I still enjoyed it. Was in and out which I appreciated. I love the hot sauce! They have electronic payment options now, wish I had known this before I stopped at the bank for cash.

Excellent low key old school Chicago hole in the wall. Fried mushrooms poppable and melt in your mouth, cat fish delicious and cooked perfectly. Hot sauces delicious.

If you're looking for fried deliciousness, this is the spot. Food was good and the prices are very reasonable. No place to eat inside. Old school dining experience. Order your food. Move out the way. Pay when your food is ready.

Love their perfectly cooked C-shape regular and jumbo crispy, golden-brown shrimps that are moist and juicy inside, with a flavorful light crust that is seasoned. They stock old school lunchroom butter cookies that are crispy, golden, and melt-in-your-mouth, with a rich, buttery flavor and not too sweet. Prices are reasonable staff pleasant. The establishment is strictly carryout, but could use a good coat of paint on the walls

The shrimp as huge, seasoned, (clean) and delicious. Goose Island has been a staple in my family since I was a kid. The customer service is wonderful and straightforward. It's takeout only no seats - so you can call it in or order once you get there. The prices are reasonable (they now accept credit cards). I have introduced Goose Island to my daughter so the tradition will continue.

Noo... Not Goose Island Shrimp House! WHAT HAPPENED??!!! Not the same. The breading was not only poorly seasoned it was a different consistency. Even the mild sauce was "less than"; as if it was missing some seasoning . I should've known something was amuck when my order was packaged in egg roll bags. My order looked and smelled and most importantly tasted different (not better). I've been coming to this place since 1997. I'm sadden to say that this may be the very last time I step thru those doors.

I called in an order for pickup. When I arrived, I did not expect to see the amount of customers waiting to get their food in there. This place was packed. The pickup/ordering system is a little chaotic, but you'll eventually get your food. I still feel like they truly don't make your order until you arrive. I ordered two pounds of regular shrimp and a pound of fish chips. I also purchased their cocktail sauce. A little pricey but went perfect with their shrimp. Both the shrimp and fish were perfectly fried and while I used to eat fish with tartar sauce, I recently learned to enjoy it with Mild sauce. Just the perfect combo. I can definitely see myself returning whenever I'm craving fried fish & shrimp.

Goose Island Shrimp House has been around more than 40 years and around 40 years ago was the first time I ate there. It's good to see a restaurant maintain all of these decades. The shrimp house is a shack type establishment that's basic and to the point. Come in and get some of the best fish you'll have and leave to make room for the next customer. There's no seating but they have a couple of old school video games to play while you're waiting for your order. There's street parking in the front and around the corner. The service is friendly and the food is cooked to order. The catfish is my favorite. Seasoned well and tasty. I love all of the sides. The only issue I've ever had has been the breading on the shrimp. It is really good, it's just a lot. Sometimes it can overpower the taste of the shrimp. I highly recommend Goose Island Shrimp House.

Out of respect for this O.G. I'll round up to three stars. Similar to Lawrence's, Goose Island thrives because of nostalgia laden fans from yesteryear, back when restaurant options were limited and special occasions were celebrated at Red Lobster. The quality of the seafood is solid by Midwest standards and the service is above average. The heavy breading isn't for everyone, neither are the bones in the catfish strips or the shrimp tails hidden underneath. Honestly the breading makes it difficult to appreciate the seafood. Not worth a special trip and I can't recommend unless you're reliving childhood memories.

I'm visiting my man from Cali and he swears these are the best shrimp that I will ever ever taste in my life! Cupcake Joe outside of the restaurant said I'm going to be coming back to Chi town just to get some shrimp. Well, they didn't lie! Omgish these shrimp are truly the best I've ever had!!! Seasoned and cooked to perfection 100% The customer service was great but they forgot to our fried mushrooms but I'll get them the next time around. The ambiance is no frills, extremely clean and reminds me of an old school order & take out in Los Angeles. The owner remembered my man from years ago when he frequented there -- seems like a really cool down-to-earth dude! Got to go so I can finish eating my shrimp. Happy yelping!

The last time I was in Chicago 2013 is when I first discovered this place. The shrimp is a good as I remembered by so are the bad attitudes which is why the 3 rating. Still same nasty customer service. Again, the assume everyone is from Chicago so every question is met with a scowl, short answer, or like that's a dumb question. Unfortunately u do better asking the patrons in line ur questions if u don't want to be meant with smart a-- answers. Every place else we went in Chicago we were meant with good customer service but here. I forgot how bad it was until we received it again. Nevertheless shrimp was still good.

Oh well I hate to have to write this review but I have to be honest. I haven't been here in such a long time I thought I'd have some shrimp from here today, Big mistake. When we arrived it was completely empty I thought cool this will be quick. To start the customer service was great. I have no complaints about that. The prices were also great. No complaints about that. BUT those shrimp & that sauce..... Not what I remembered. We ordered 1lb jumbo shrimp, 1/2 lb regular shrimp & 1/2 lb fish chips. To put in a nutshell they all tasted bad. I don't know if it was the seasoning in the breading or the oil they fried it in but something was very off about the food. So off in taste we threw it all out. $35 wasted and no dinner tonight. The mild sauce was a bit tangy and the hot sauce was very mustardy. Very off. Sorry Goose Island but I'm left feeling unsatisfied with your product. 1/10 for the food 8/10 for the customer service Remember all reviews are subjective

Not much has changed since I was last here. Still good food, decor, decent service. The prices are still reasonable. My order was only $25. Same location. I'm glad when places stay the same and keep up the good work.

This Chicago establishment deserves its props! The place is really unassuming and if you didn't know it was here you'd probably drive on by. In fact you probably have driven by it a million times. It is a carry out spot so there's no seating. I would recommend that you call in your order ahead of time. They'll have everything prepared and drop it fresh when you get there. The jumbo shrimp were huge and really tasty. We also had an order of fries and mushrooms. If you plan on using card just make sure you have your ID with you.

Goose Island Shrimp House been serving up fried seafood for decades. I remember my parents coming by here after visiting my Great Grand Parents in Cabrini. Located on Division St. near the I-90 right off the Chicago River, Goose Island has some of the best fish dish in the city. No tables, chairs, ottomans or stoops. This is a grab and go spot, no dine in. The shrimp is the best but available on the menu is catfish nuggets, fish & chips, scallops, oysters, smelts and frog legs. Mild and/or hot sauce is available for dipping. There is an extensive list of sides that includes fries, coleslaw, macaroni salad, just to make a few. The fish orders are taken by quarter pound to a pound. Beverages are behind the counter, ordered when your food is ready. Walk in, step to the counter, place your order and enjoy.

shrimp, catfish yummy would suggest calling order in first! They don't have all items on menus.

Don't let the location and neighborhood ambiance drive you away. POLICE, FIRE and virtually all shrimp lovers can't stay away from this place. When they say "LARGE", and "JUMBO" shrimp, they mean it. Everything is carry out. No delivery that I'm aware of. Just East of ELSTON AVE. on Division St. Be careful, - - you might accidentally pass it up.!

I remember when goose Island shrimp were crunchy but they were not as crunchy as they used to be I like the old flavor not the new I'm quite sure A lot of Of the "OG,S"will Agree. The Service is still fast and the food was hot and fresh but it still was not the great taste. The ambiance is still the same

I lLove Goose Island Shrimp House, they never let me down. Customer service is always at its Finest and the food tops it OFF Thank You; Keep Up the Business. #1 GoTo Try it and thank me later.

I ordered a one pound frog legs and fried mushrooms after I saw a notice sign says, "ID Required To Accept Credit Cards" when I came to this restaurant. Thanks to Goose Island Shrimp for putting up this great notice sign. I used Google Pay on my Android phone by making a NFC payment. I'm very satisfied with Goose Island Shrimp. I can't wait to come to this restaurant again.

BEST FRIED SHRIMP IN CHICAGO! There I said it. Yes, I love lawerences and red hot ranch but these right here win the gold... hehe can you tell I've been watching the Winter Olympics?? I've been going to goose island since I was a child. My parents introduced me to the restaurant and I've since then have spread the word to many of my friends. It's a small spot. Kinda looks like "a hole in the wall" but is AMAMZING! I get the jumbo shrimp. They're jumbo jumbo too! They also have frog legs, clams, catfish ,fried mushrooms and some other options outside of shrimp! I'm not a fan of their skinny fries but it's the SHRIMP that I care about anyway. FYI- They're cash only. And the wait isn't bad at all if they're not super busy. Even while busy they're really cranking them out!

Never see fried shrimp the same Oh My Gosh I was told I'd never see shrimp the same after getting a pound from here & Yes!!! I wished I'd gotten more than a pound. I got jumbo shrimp & the crunchy breading on top of big meaty cleaned shrimp was outstanding. I barely needed the goose sauce as the shrimp were just that good I will definitely be back & highly recommend this spot. Note it's cash only

Not a fancy place, to go orders only. Seems like it may be best to call your order in for faster service. Ordered the jumbo shrimp, fried nicely and they were good but nothing special that would make me say I have to go back. Also got the crab sand and ur was really good.Oh and I like other people thought they only accept cash, but they do take credit cards!

No seasoning, no parking, slow service. No seating. Not sure this was really catfish either. Nice people though.

Jumbo shrimp is truly an oxymoron at Goose Island Shrimp. Prepare yourself for an experience rivaled all over Chicago by others who have tried and continue to fail at serving Gulf Coast Shrimp. Yes, it's deep fried using the same secret recipe used for years but produces a greaseless product that's crispy, flaky and meaty in three words. I've been all over the world... and Goose Island shrimp is truly an original creation and an icon in Chicago for no nonsense Seafood. Spice lovers will marvel at the simple but original hot sauce creation and "mild' lovers should retreat to the safety of a deliciously low keyed tomato taste with a sweet hint of honey. Don't expect anything special in terms of atmosphere because it's carry out only in this simple establishment. Warning... ironically, those odd late-night times that we feel the need to get carry-out seafood are likely going to be the same times that others are doing the same thing... thus; you're likely to see a long line leading out the door onto Division street. It's best that you call ahead if you don't wanna wait. A pound and a half of jumbo shrimp is enough for two people who are hungry. For general fish lovers, halibut is offered as "fish chips" which won't be as promising but deliver all the flavor and value that you would expect. Simple side orders are offered to bolster an already incredible Fish experience You can't go wrong with either. If I could give this review six stars I would and even if I'm half right, you'll be quite satisfied and think about returning a week later and probably put it on your regular list. Leave your debit/credit card at home because that payment instrument is unseen. Cash only!

I drive in Wood Drive a far way to go get me some seafood and from this place and now it may not look pretty on the outside but trust me you will not be disappointed with the food it is so delicious well cooked hot fresh my ex-boyfriend at the time well never mind he took me there and the first time I got I went there with him I was so I mean I was just so in awe because I wasn't expecting the food to be so good but I would go back on my own you know just to get some shrimp some fried shrimp and the portions are just amazing and I can't say nothing bad about this place it's it they they get you in and they get you out and you just you know you will be you will love this place you would love the food it's not a sit-in but the food is worth the trip and I'm coming from the north so that says a lot

Rude and disrespectful. Ordered ahead of time only to wait an additional 30 minutes. They used to be good and quick can't say I'm going back.

This place used to be a great staple on division but now it's over breaded, less shrimp, salty horribly put together ketchup and hot sauce and call it mild sauce . I will never be returning $28 and waste it. I know all businesses are about the money but most businesses care about their product and what they're putting out there , they don't care !!!!!!!they're going off the name alone and knowing that people will come and bypass the BS well I'm not you can keep your shrimp and stick it up your goose island

"Goose Island Shrimp House" is more so "Goose Island Oyster House" to me because their giant fried oysters are juicy and delicious! Before I start getting to the gist of this review, I want to emphasize that it is cash and carryout only. However, a feast of fried seafood for two (2) individuals should cost about $20. There was really nothing remarkable to mention on the decors: a couple of arcade machines (not sure if they were functional), a bunch of pictures above the refrigerators behind the ordering counter, a large poster featuring a sexy gal and a pup, and of course, the menu. A few patrons phoned in for their orders, which might be a smart move for those who weren't fond of waiting. Nevertheless, our order was ready within fifteen (15) minutes or so. I wish they had an ATM. Although we were aware of this being a cash-only establishment, a dude had to come back with green bucks and the nearest one was inside the gas station or Target. I know their business could be quite brisk at times, so it wouldn't hurt to install an ATM for additional passive income. Their breading was, indeed, thick, yet it worked well with the oyster. I didn't like their regular shrimp as much, for the coating overpowered the flavor and texture of the shrimp itself. On the other hand, I enjoyed their scallops. I must say the breading didn't do a good job covering the tasty shellfish. I easy-going self didn't mind at all and were ok with such imperfection. "Goose Island Shrimp House" is officially my summer go-to takeout place. I love sitting in a park, people-watching, and munching on finger food! I just gotta be a better bartender and make more cash so I can treat myself as often as possible.

What can I say the best!!! As soon as I land from Arizona I'm there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The shrimp was good the last time I had it and the fried mushrooms is good too but the prices need to be a lil bit cheaper for a pound and you guys need to know if a regular orders food and not be all blah over phone and you guys are good if you call if you going there to place order it's gonna take a min because they are making it fresh

The best shrimp I've ever had. Sauce is amazing. I'd recommend the jumbo shrimp. Wish they were closer or delivered.

This place is should be a Monument. I was in my twenties the seafood was good then and great now. Just wish they had delivery.

Goose Island is a hit if you like seafood you will enjoy this place been going to this eatery since i was a child and soon will be 50 so that sums it up GOOSE ISLAND IS MY FAVORITE!!!!!!!

The absolutely best shrimp I have ever had in my life!! Yes, the place doesn't look like much, but it will be packed on the inside because the SHRIMP are absolutely DELICIOUS!!!! Unfortunately, I love the shrimp so much I haven't tried anything else....yet!! I truly believe in my heart of hearts I will NOT be disappointed in any thing they sell. I just wish that had a location on the far south side please hint hint!!

I love this shrimp. I just don't have it often because I can't order it since they only take cash. I'm disabled and have everything delivered. Thanks to my brother that does food delivery and he picked some up for me in between his other food orders. So good!

This time around I called in our order in advance and it was ready to go when I arrived. We got 1/2 lb fried oyster, smelt, regular shrimp. The regular shrimp and smelt are still our favorites. The fried oyster were a little too large, plumpy and juicy. I wouldn't get those again. Calling in your order is a good idea to avoid the wait!

No boiled bland NASTY fish here! BEST catfish. BEST macaroni. Best HOT SAUCE. You know it's fresh because the Chicago River is RIGHT THERE. Thank you Lord for the Goose Shrimp House. Update: I'm updating my review because I just saw these "people" saying there is attitude. Maybe YOU have the attitude.

Excellent food I have gone there since the 1980's and have always loved the food. When family visit from out of town and want good seafood shrimps this is the place we go.

Finally made my way here around 9pm Friday and the place was packed, but we were able to find parking and didn't wait too long for our food. Being our first time here, it was a tad confusing to see where the line was, but everyone was moreso just waiting for their orders, as the two men up front made sure everyone was taken care of. The guy who took our order was much friendlier than the guy who gave us our food. While we waited a short while, we indulged in Galaga. We should have checked our bag of food when we got it since the lady before us came running back in, saying they forgot her fries...which was also the case for us so that was a bit frustrating. Nonetheless, we enjoyed our 1lb jumbo shrimp, 3/4 lb scallops, 1/2 lb oysters, and clam strips. It's awesome that all their seafood are huge and tasty. Their breading is thick and not my preference but still good. However, the breading was falling off the scallops... their sauces, both mild and hot were very flavorful and unique. Overall, it satisfied my fix and was more or less what I expected, maybe I expected just a touch more from this joint, but prices are good and they serve quality food.

What more can I say.. the best fried shrimp in Chicago and their breading and the quality of the shrimp is perfection !!

Family has been coming here for years and I now take the hour drive when I have a craving for the best jumbo shrimp in Chicago.

I've been coming here for years! Food is always great but the customer service is ridiculous. RUDE RUDE RUDE. I mean seriously talk with respect! I was the only Hispanic person in there at the time and the fat heavyset dude at the register ( older ) didn't even let me finish my order... till I was still standing at the register then he finally asked what I want. Makes me want too spend my HARD earned money elsewhere... Frank's shrimp on Irving park or Lawrence's.

Overweight guy who works in the front is seriously rude and nasty. He has the most disrespectful attitude with no care to the business. I was waiting for him to finish texting so he can tell me the order price total. If you hate your job so much, try not being trash. PLUS they only take cash, which is a joke especially with COVID 19

Covid friendly (sanitizer and masks worn) Prompt service Food was fresh and hot (regular shrimp and scallops) Great taste Correct order Friendly staff Overall good experience with in and out service. Called in order and it was ready when I was told to come in.

Hey y'all, I have loved Goose Island since high school 'Class of 1984'. I don't live close but I had a craving for some scallops. Unfortunately, the scallops were rough and dingy, not the plump white scallops in used to from them. Then, I got the catfish and it wasn't done and the flour was showing and not fully cooked. I'm too far away to go back. Which means my Jones was not satisfied and I gave away my hard earned cash. I'm so sad.

Shrimp never a disappointment. I really like coming here have been buying shrimp for several years.

They give you a good amount of food for what you pay. I ordered a pound of jumbo shrimp and a pound of frog legs and it seemed like they gave me way more. The reason I give this place two stars is because of the service and the quality of the food. 1.) The Service: I called in my order 45min before I arrived. Person who answered was aggressive for no reason. I'm a very patient person and I don't lose my cool quickly, but dude who answered acted like I was personally insulting him for offering my business. He answered my call like I had just interrupted him during the birth of his child. I don't need small talk, I don't need you to ask how i'm doing, but why were you just straight hostile when I'm trying to place an order? Anyways, I arrived and had to wait another 45min even though dude said It would be ready in 30min. They clearly hadn't even put the order in. That's okay - again, I'm a pretty patient person. What irked me is that during the 45min I was waiting, there were at least 10 walk-ins who placed/received their orders in 5-10min tops. What was the point of me calling in if you're going to prioritize walk-ins? I talked to a guy waiting next to me and it was the same situation - he called in 45min ago and they hadn't even started the order when we got there. I finally get my order an hour and a half after I called in my order. No apology - In fact, the cashier didn't say one word to me when I was paying. 2.) The food: I really don't understand why the food is so revered. Again, good quantities for what you're paying, but the food is bland. They put a THICK layer of breading on the shrimp and frog legs and deep fried them. No special seasoning, it literally just tasted like shrimp/frog legs wrapped in fried bread. It was solid, but nothing to write home about. Their hot sauce is hot garbage. It tastes like a mix of sriracha and mustard and it has that consistency to it. Only reason I'm giving this place an additional star is the quantity of food they give you. Would have given you three stars but y'all don't know how to act when it comes to interacting with people. Maybe don't treat your customers like trash and come up with a better organizational system so those who preorder don't have to wait an another hour after arriving to get their food.

Excellent 'hood food!!! Yes, it is ghetto in there. Yes, it is cash only! Yes, it is a hole in the wall. Yes, there is no where to eat inside. Yes, there is thick breading on the shrimp. Yes, it is in the middle of nowhere. But this is the biggest and best fried jumbo shrimp that Chicago has to offer! And the clam strips has taste of it's own that I cannot get anywhere! They, too, are the biggest clam strips in Chicago. When I get a jumbo shrimp and dip it into that savory hot sauce or sweet cocktail sauce, I can only think of one thing... "Chicago Song" (David Sanborn)

First time having GISH & they have by far BEST FRIED SHRIMP EVERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!! Unbelievable! I couldn't believe how fresh the shrimp tasted. They have got to be having it flown in! Most definitely will be back next time I'm in the Chi!

Food was Great! Food never changed! But, the service.. Why! This place has so much to offer. I understand with everything going on. But, come on. Talk to people with respect! Explain how you want things done without being rude... Life is so much More! Maybe next time! Good luck!

I have visited this spot 3-4 times since March 2020. They observe safe practices and the shrimp is just as tasty. The ordering procedure could use some work and I wish they were open on Mondays. When I come into town on the weekends I have the choice of Friday or Saturday... to get over there. Whatever I have to do though still going there as long as they are open.

Best Shrimp loved everything there !! They have Delicious food!! Very tasty and they have homemade hot sauce Fire spicy yummy.