Best Shellfish Restaurants in South Side

13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of El Che Steakhouse & Bar restaurant

1. El Che Steakhouse & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(2061)

Price: Very Expensive

• Shellfish • West Loop

Booked 64 times today

El Che Steakhouse & Bar in Chicago's vibrant West Loop is a culinary celebration of Argentinean cuisine, offering a truly authentic dining experience. The heart of the restaurant is its 12-foot custom-built grill, where traditional asados come to life with an array of perfectly charred steaks, succulent seafood, and seasonal vegetables. Patrons rave about the "buttery steaks" and specialties like the "whole roasted branzino topped with chimichurri," calling them some of the "best preparations I have ever had!" The atmosphere is complemented by a South American wine list, making El Che the perfect spot for an immersive Argentinean feast. Whether it’s a birthday, a date night, or a casual dinner, El Che promises an unforgettable experience with every visit.

A photo of McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Chicago (Wacker Dr.) restaurant

2. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Chicago (Wacker Dr.)

4.5

Awesome(4321)

Price: Moderate

• Shellfish • Downtown / Loop

Booked 45 times today

McCormick & Schmick's Seafood in Chicago's bustling Downtown Loop is a seafood lover's haven, known for its fresh, authentic offerings and daily-changing menu. Patrons rave about the "exquisite oysters" and the "delicious sea bass," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to sourcing sustainable and regionally-inspired seafood. From Wild Isles Salmon to Hawaiian seafood flown in from the Honolulu Fish Auction, each dish reflects a dedication to quality and freshness. The restaurant's signature oysters, sourced from their own private beds, are a must-try. Guests consistently praise the "wonderful service" and the vibrant ambiance, making it an ideal spot for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations.

A photo of Legal Sea Foods - Chicago restaurant

3. Legal Sea Foods - Chicago

4.0

Excellent(204)

Price: Expensive

• Shellfish • River North (Chicago)

Booked 44 times today

Legal Sea Foods Chicago is now open along the vibrant Riverwalk in the bustling River North neighborhood at the famous Marina Towers. Legal's first Midwest location features two floors of upscale casual New England vibes with sweeping riverfront views and an outdoor space. The brand-new restaurant features a large main dining room, bar area, private event space, and outdoor terraces. Serving New England specialties such as Boston's best Clam Chowder and Half Pound Lobster Rolls, as well as new signature dishes and local favorites. Legal Sea Foods combines New England's coastal fishing traditions with modern culinary flair. A taste of New England in the Mid-West.

A photo of Chicago Cut Steakhouse restaurant

4. Chicago Cut Steakhouse

4.8

Exceptional(9962)

Price: Very Expensive

• Shellfish • River North (Chicago)

Booked 87 times today

Nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, Chicago Cut Steakhouse not only excels in serving up succulent USDA-certified prime beef but also shines brightly with its seafood offerings. Patrons rave about the "lobster escargot," a unique twist that leaves guests "unable to stop talking about how delicious it was." The seafood menu impresses with its "butter poached lobster and lamb lollipops appetizer," and the "scallops," which one guest described as "hands down one of the best" they've ever had. Alongside its striking views of the Chicago River, Chicago Cut Steakhouse guarantees a seafood dining experience that is as authentic as it is memorable, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

A photo of Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Chicago restaurant

5. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(5360)

Price: Expensive

• Shellfish • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 65 times today

Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House is a gem in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood, celebrated for its exceptional American cuisine. Since its inception in 1997, Hugo's has established a reputation for serving the freshest seafood alongside Gibsons Prime Angus steaks. Patrons rave about the "top-notch food and service," with special mentions of their "amazing" crab cakes and perfectly cooked steaks. The restaurant prides itself on seafood so fresh that, as noted by The New York Times, "the fish could only be fresher if it swam in by itself." The lively ambiance and attentive staff make every dining experience memorable, ensuring that Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House remains a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're there for the seafood or the steaks, Hugo's promises an authentic and high-quality American dining experience.

6. STK – Chicago

4.1

Excellent(6342)

Price: Expensive

• Shellfish • River North (Chicago)

Booked 92 times today

STK – Chicago, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood, is celebrated for its exceptional Seafood alongside its signature steaks. Patrons are consistently impressed, describing the food as "top tier" with standout dishes like crab cakes, calamari, and shrimp that are "10/10." A diner noted, "the crab cakes, truffle fries, and brussel sprouts were amazing," emphasizing the quality and delightful flavors of their seafood offerings. This high-energy dining spot not only promises a "great experience" with "amazing food and service" but also captivates guests with its chic ambiance and dynamic vibe. STK – Chicago is a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking a memorable meal in an elegant setting.

A photo of Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago restaurant

7. Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(9094)

Price: Very Expensive

• Shellfish • River North (Chicago)

Booked 112 times today

Smith & Wollensky in Chicago, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood, is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine, offering diners an unforgettable riverfront dining experience. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and preparation of the seafood, with one guest highlighting, "Our dinners were excellent. Lobster was cooked perfectly and the filet mignon was tender and delicious." Another diner praised the variety and taste of the seafood starters stating, "Delicious as always. The crab cakes, oysters, and Wollensky salad were so tasty." This iconic Chicago staple not only promises a feast for the taste buds with its authentic and high-quality seafood but also enchants with its scenic views and outstanding service, making every visit genuinely special.

A photo of Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago restaurant

8. Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago

4.8

Exceptional(14260)

Price: Very Expensive

• Shellfish • River North (Chicago)

Booked 153 times today

Shaw’s Crab House & Oyster Bar in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood is a beacon of American cuisine, expertly blending a rich tradition with top-tier seafood offerings since 1984. Celebrated for its exquisite seafood, Shaw's provides a "step back in time" to when dining was a grand affair. Patrons rave about the "unbelievable Narragansett bay scallops as sweet as candy" and the consistency that makes every visit memorable. The ambiance, described as a classic "supper club" charm, coupled with "exceptional" service, ensures that Shaw’s stands out as a premier destination for both locals and visitors seeking the pinnacle of American dining in Chicago.

A photo of Angry Crab - Wicker Park restaurant

9. Angry Crab - Wicker Park

4.7

Exceptional(68)

Price: Moderate

• Shellfish • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 10 times today

Angry Crab in Wicker Park, Chicago, is a true haven for Comfort Food lovers, offering an authentic Cajun seafood experience that's both flavorful and heartwarming. Diners rave about the "messy, garlicky good" seafood boil, describing it as "delicious" and "soooo tasty!" The restaurant's ability to blend spices, flavors, and fresh seafood creates a memorable dining adventure, with reviews highlighting the "best king crab I've ever eaten" and the delightful Garlic Cajun sauce. Whether it's the attentive service, the craft beers, or the lively atmosphere, Angry Crab stands out as a top destination for anyone seeking a genuine and satisfying comfort food meal in Chicago.

A photo of Lure Fishbar - Chicago restaurant

10. Lure Fishbar - Chicago

4.7

Exceptional(233)

Price: Very Expensive

• Shellfish • River North (Chicago)

Booked 7 times today

At Lure Fishbar in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood, the sushi experience is nothing short of exceptional. Lure Fishbar’s world-class sushi program offers an array of fresh, meticulously crafted sushi that leaves diners raving about its quality and taste. One guest exclaimed, "It was some of the freshest and most delicious we’ve ever had," highlighting the dynamite roll and a chef’s medley as particularly outstanding. The sushi not only delights the palate but is also beautifully presented, making each dining experience both visually and gastronomically satisfying. Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful meal out, Lure Fishbar’s sushi is a culinary journey worth taking.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Shellfish Restaurants in South Side

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13 restaurants available nearby

1. El Che Steakhouse & Bar

2. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood - Chicago (Wacker Dr.)

3. Legal Sea Foods - Chicago

4. Chicago Cut Steakhouse

5. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House - Chicago

6. STK – Chicago

7. Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse - Chicago

8. Shaw's Crab House & Oyster Bar - Chicago

9. Angry Crab - Wicker Park

10. Lure Fishbar - Chicago

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