Seafood

 

 

Shaw's Crab House- While the restaurant offer pretty good food it is the separate bar, The Blue Crab Lounge, that is the real attraction. It a lively spot with frequent live music that offers one of Chicago's best oyster bars, the best clam chowder and crab cakes we have found in Chicago so far and a wide variety of seafood and fish. They do also offer several non seafood options.
312-527-2722, 21 E. Hubbard, L,D, $$$  Website

Hugo's Frog Bar- Located next to Gibson's and owned by the same people it is a seafood version of a Chicago steak house. Hugo's offers upscale fish and seafood along with a variety of huge steaks. The crab cakes and shrimp cocktail are among Chicago's best. Eating in the bar is a good option. 312-640-0999, 1024 N. Rush, D, $$$ Website

C-House- Located in the Affinia Hotel it is the creation of well known chef Marcus Samuelsson. C-House offers a large oyster selection and some innovative seafood dishes. The food is rather small but has great flavors. The fish tacos are a favorite among local food critics. It is a a sleek, modern space but has unfortunately been understaffed on a couple of our visits.
312-523-0923, 166 E. Superior, L,D, $$$  Website

Roy's- World famous Chef Roy Yamaguchi's Chicago location offers a Hawaiian fusion take on seafood. The food is always well prepared and the service is very good but is his spicy sauces that are the real reason to eat at Roy's. The Big Island Ahi Poké appetizer is a personal favorite. The bar can mix up a variety of fun Hawaiian cocktails. 312-787-7599, 720 N. State, D, $$$ Website

Riva- Yes it is on Navy Pier, and yes all the other places on Navy Pier serve substandard food, but Riva serves good quality food in a nice setting with great views. Make sure and take advantage of their valet parking. 312-644-7482, L,D, $$$  Website

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab- A loud, crowded and bustling restaurant that has very good food. A fun place with a group but it is a little to hectic to be romantic. The stone crab claws are excellent. 312-379-5637, 60 E. Grand, L,D, $$$  Website

Devon- A nice variety of pretty good seafood and fish. It is a very nice, modern space with Chicago's best bathrooms. Devon's bar is a nice place for a quick nibble and a drink.
312-440-8660, 39 E. Chicago, L,D, $$$ Website