Best of 23 shrimp in Chicago
Shrimp in Chicago is a popular dish, cherished by locals and visitors alike. From seafood boils to gourmet dishes,Chicago's culinary scene offers a wide range of shrimp-based options. Food trucks, high-end restaurants, and cozy eateries all contribute to the city's diverse shrimp-loving culture. Come explore Chicago's take on this beloved seafood staple.
- 1. Goose Island Shrimp House
- 2. Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp
- 3. Frank's Chicago Shrimp House
- 4. Haire's Gulf Shrimp
- 5. Frank's Chicago Shrimp House
- 6. Captain Shrimp
- 7. shrimp stop
- 8. Shrimp Island
- 9. Troha's Chicken & Shrimp House
- 10. South Side Shrimp
- 11. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 12. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
- 13. DiCola's Seafood
- 14. Lowcountry Lakeview
- 15. Hagen's Fish Market
- 16. Lowcountry South Loop
- 17. Hienie's Shrimp House
- 18. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
- 19. Madison Crab House
- 20. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 21. Half Shell
- 22. Shrimp House Fish & Chicken
- 23. Haire's Famous Gulf Shrimp
1. Goose Island Shrimp House
Features a cozy, casual atmosphere and friendly service

Oh My Gosh, I was told that I would never view shrimp the same after getting a pound from Goose Island, and I must say, I agree. The shrimp I received was jumbo-sized, and the crispy breading on top of the substantial and clean shrimp was exceptional.
The secret to the tastiness of the shrimp, I'm informed, lies in the batter, and Goose Island's well-known homemade sauce enhances the flavor of not only the shrimp but also the frog legs, catfish, smelt, scallops, clams, and oysters.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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2. Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp
Family-owned restaurant, cash-only, no reservations

Lawrence's is a popular restaurant known for its signature shrimp dishes, which can be ordered fried, boiled, or smoked. The establishment boasts a spacious outdoor patio, providing a comfortable dining area for its patrons. Furthermore, Lawrence's features a large private dock, open for boaters who wish to take advantage of the Dock & Dine service.
The breaded shrimp at Lawrence's is widely regarded as exceptional. Its delectable taste and texture have earned it a reputation as one of the best breaded shrimp dishes available. The restaurant's signature shrimp is a must-try for any seafood lover.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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3. Frank's Chicago Shrimp House
Family-owned and operated, friendly service

Frank's in Chicago is known for serving some of the best shrimp in town. The service is prompt, ensuring that the shrimp is delivered hot and fresh. The shrimp is crispy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. The portions are generous, making it a satisfying meal for any seafood lover.
In summary, Frank's in Chicago is a great destination for anyone craving delicious shrimp. The shrimp is cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. The quick service and generous portions only add to the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Haire's Gulf Shrimp
Family-owned business since 1972; Cajun-style cooking; Friendly service

The shrimp dinner was a delightful culinary experience. The shrimp served was hot, fresh, and crispy to the bite, indicating the use of high-quality ingredients and careful preparation. This superior cooking technique ensured that the shrimp was perfectly cooked, retaining its natural flavor and juiciness.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
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5. Frank's Chicago Shrimp House
Family-owned and operated, Friendly service, Casual atmosphere

The shrimp dish that was ordered was cooked to perfection and had an exceptional flavor. The portion size was more than satisfactory, providing a generous amount of food. Freshness and deliciousness are consistent attributes of the shrimp served at this establishment.
A crispy coating and a tangy sauce are key features that make the shrimp stand out. These qualities contribute to the overall delight of the dining experience. The shrimp's excellent taste and presentation demonstrate the establishment's commitment to providing high-quality meals.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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6. Captain Shrimp
Cozy atmosphere, family-owned, affordable seafood options

The fried shrimp at this city establishment is highly acclaimed, having maintained its supreme quality even after a change in ownership. However, there is room for improvement in the onion rings, which are currently processed and diced, lacking authenticity.
I enjoyed the 1lb jumbo shrimp dinner, which included crinkle cut fries and coleslaw. The shrimp serving was generous, leaving me satisfied. While the flavor was satisfying, I cannot say it is the best fried shrimp I have ever had. Nonetheless, the shrimp is the star of the meal, making this a recommended spot for shrimp lovers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
7. shrimp stop

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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8. Shrimp Island
Sustainable sourcing, Unique shrimp cocktail sauce, Cozy atmosphere

A recent visit to a local restaurant resulted in the purchase of a pound of shrimp, with an additional charge for shrimp sauce (Marinara). Despite this unexpected cost, the quality of the food was so impressive that the speaker plans to return. This restaurant is highly recommended, offering some of the best dishes in the state of Illinois, and conveniently located near the speaker's home.
The speaker's experience at this restaurant was so positive that they described it as one of the craziest things they've ever heard, in a good way. The food was so delicious that the speaker is already planning their next visit. Those who have not yet had the chance to visit this restaurant are encouraged to make it a priority, as the quality of the food is truly exceptional.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
9. Troha's Chicken & Shrimp House
Uses family recipes, Homemade sauces, Casual and friendly atmosphere

Trohas is renowned for its exceptional fried shrimp, fish, and chicken, offering some of the best-tasted versions of these dishes. The establishment prioritizes cleanliness and ensures that the food is always served hot and fresh, cooked to order. Remarkably, Trohas has maintained its high-quality standards for over a century, having been in the same location for over 110 years and remaining under the same family's ownership.
Fried shrimp is a standout dish at Trohas, earning it a reputation as the best place for this dish in Chicago. The family's commitment to preserving the restaurant's traditions and maintaining its original location has contributed to its longevity and success. The combination of the restaurant's history, commitment to quality, and delicious fried shrimp make Trohas a must-visit destination for seafood lovers in Chicago.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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10. South Side Shrimp
Offers a cozy and casual atmosphere for dining

South Side Shrimp is known for its distinctive Chicago-style shrimp, which features a spicy kick that sets it apart. The owner places a strong emphasis on attention to detail and customer service, offering personalized cooking preferences and accommodating food allergies to ensure a positive dining experience.
The Chicago-style shrimp at South Side Shrimp can also be prepared without garlic, and they are deep-fried until they reach a golden brown color. This cooking method ensures that the shrimp are cooked thoroughly and have a satisfying crunch with every bite.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Sustainable seafood options, Customizable seafood bowls

The crispy shrimp dish I tried was delicious and expertly cooked. I would highly recommend giving it a try. The shrimp tacos were another memorable dish – they were fresh and full of flavor, making for a highly satisfying meal.
If you're looking for a tasty seafood option, the crispy shrimp comes highly recommended. It was cooked to perfection and had a wonderful flavor. Similarly, the shrimp tacos were a standout dish – they were fresh, flavorful, and quite enjoyable. Both dishes are great choices for anyone looking for a delicious seafood meal.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
12. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Upscale seafood and steakhouse with a focus on stone crab and shrimp dishes

The shrimp dishes I tried during my meal were outstanding. The shrimp scampi was skillfully cooked, achieving the perfect balance of garlic and butter flavors. The jumbo shrimp cocktail was a standout, with the shrimp being exceptionally large and packed with delicious taste.
In summary, the shrimp dishes were a memorable part of the meal. The shrimp scampi was prepared with great culinary skill, resulting in a delightful balance of garlic and butter. The jumbo shrimp cocktail was particularly noteworthy, as the shrimp were both large in size and rich in flavor.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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13. DiCola's Seafood
Homemade sauces and seasonings, Casual and family-friendly atmosphere

The seafood store is a popular destination for fresh and delicious options, including a variety of fish, shrimp, king crab claws, halibut, and even frog legs. While the prices can be on the higher side, many customers find it worth the expense for the high quality of the seafood. The king crab legs are kept in the back room, and they are frozen.
At this store, customers can watch as their food is cooked right in front of them and is sold by the pound. Those who are specifically interested in fish can find a wide selection of what's in season. To get the lake perch, one must make a trip to this store. The shrimp and halibut are also popular choices among customers. Overall, the seafood is fresh and cooked to perfection, making this store a top pick for seafood lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems
14. Lowcountry Lakeview
Seafood-focused restaurant in the heart of Chicago, Cozy and inviting atmosphere

The seafood portion in the meal is generous, with sizable mussels, shrimps, and crab legs that have a substantial amount of meat. My friends and I ordered the Double Double, which came with an additional pound of shrimp, providing us with just the right amount of food for our group, who are known to have hearty appetites.
The crab legs and shrimps were the highlights of the dish, with the crab legs having a good amount of meat that was flavorful and succulent. The extra pound of shrimp in our Double Double order was a great addition, giving us plenty of juicy and plump shrimps to share. Overall, we were satisfied with the quality and quantity of seafood in our meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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15. Hagen's Fish Market
Long-standing family-owned business, Sustainable seafood options, Daily fresh catches

The Shrimp Po' Boy Sandwich is a beloved dish, known for its generous amount of shrimp and delicious sauce. During a visit to Hagen's Fish Market with my wife, we discovered their jumbo shrimp and were impressed with the quality. We were on a mission to find the best shrimp houses in the Chicago area, and Hagen's quickly stood out as a top contender.
Hagen's Fish Market, a well-regarded shrimp house, satisfied our search for excellent shrimp. On our initial visit, we specifically sought their jumbo shrimp, which left a lasting impression. As we explored the Chicago area's shrimp houses, Hagen's made it to our top 10 list due to the high-quality shrimp they offered.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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16. Lowcountry South Loop
Upscale southern cuisine in a trendy setting

Shrimp, corn, and potatoes were the main components of a delicious meal, served in a bag. The seasoning of the dish was exceptional, and it was encouraged to enjoy it in a hands-on and messy way, even licking fingers for maximum flavor. A combo bag was shared between colleagues, which included shrimp and crawfish boil.
Accompanying the combo bag was a jalapeño corn bread that offered a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. This cornbread was a delightful complement to the spiciness of the boil, providing a well-rounded meal experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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17. Hienie's Shrimp House
Family-owned business since 1989, Loyal and returning customers, Full bar with various drinks

The author often visits a particular place in the area, known for its delicious food and reasonable prices. The restaurant offers a variety of options, with the author particularly enjoying their shrimp and pizza, while their wife prefers the chicken. The service at this establishment is also commendable.
In addition to the main dishes, the restaurant is famous for its legendary hot sauce, which is a must-try according to the author. They specifically make it a point to purchase shrimp from this establishment when they are in the south side of the area.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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18. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
Upscale seafood restaurant with live jazz music

The Firecracker Shrimp dish was a standout dish during the meal. Its preparation and seasoning were done to perfection, resulting in a delicious taste. The sauce that accompanied the shrimp was equally delightful, with just the right amount of spice to give it a kick.
Overall, the Firecracker Shrimp was a success. The combination of perfectly cooked shrimp and well-seasoned sauce made for a tasty dish. The spice level was balanced, adding a nice kick to the shrimp without overpowering its natural flavor. This dish is a must-try for anyone who enjoys shrimp with a bit of spice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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19. Madison Crab House
Seafood market-style dining, Seasonal outdoor patio

The prices at the establishment are reasonable, with the head-on shrimp priced at $11 and the snow crab legs at $14. However, the corn and potato sides are on the smaller side and are a bit pricey for their size. One positive aspect of the dining experience is the service, which is noticeably better with friendly staff. The decor of the establishment is also worth noting, as it is eclectic and adds to the overall atmosphere.
In summary, the restaurant offers reasonably priced seafood options, including $11 head-on shrimp and $14 snow crab legs. The corn and potato sides are small and a bit overpriced, but the service is excellent with friendly staff. The eclectic decor adds to the dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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20. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Sustainable seafood options, Casual and friendly atmosphere, Customizable seafood bowls

The shrimp tacos I tried were absolutely delicious. The shrimp was cooked to perfection, with a seasoning that enhanced its flavor without overpowering it. I enjoyed the tacos so much that I would definitely order them again.
On the other hand, the Gumbo I had was a major disappointment. What was served to me was essentially a bowl of gumbo broth with a large mound of wild rice mixture, topped with tail-on shrimp. The presentation was unappetizing, and the taste was lacking. The soup and the tails did not go well together, making for a less than satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Waterfront
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21. Half Shell
Cozy atmosphere, Knowledgeable staff, Extensive wine list
The fried shrimp served at the restaurant was delicious and perfectly cooked. Its taste is a must-try for anyone who visits. The dining experience included a variety of seafood dishes, such as tilapia, salmon, calamari, and shrimp.
The seafood selection was a hit for both the reviewer and their son. The tilapia and salmon were part of the dishes that made for a delightful meal, while the calamari and shrimp were shared and equally enjoyed. The evening spent at the restaurant was very enjoyable, with a variety of tasty seafood options to choose from.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
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22. Shrimp House Fish & Chicken
Family-owned restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere

The speaker had a very positive experience at this establishment, appreciating the kindness and hospitality shown by the owner and cooks. After a mix-up with their catfish dinner order, which resulted in steaks being served instead of filets, the staff handled the situation professionally and generously, replacing the order and offering a free water.
However, there were some issues with the order that detracted from the overall experience. Despite specific instructions for "fried hard with extra LP," the dish was undercooked and lacked seasoning, leaving the speaker unsatisfied. Additionally, the restaurant seemed to be short-staffed, and there were price increases due to industry challenges. Despite these issues, it seems that some locals enjoy the food, but the speaker's experience was less than enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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23. Haire's Famous Gulf Shrimp

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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