Top 24 clam chowder in Chicago
Chicago might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of clam chowder, but this classic seafood soup has made its way into the Windy City's culinary scene. From upscale restaurants to cozy diners, clam chowder in Chicago is a warming and comforting dish that offers a taste of the sea in the heart of the Midwest. Whether you prefer the traditional New England style or a unique Chicago twist, this soup is a must-try for any seafood lover visiting the city.
- 1. Shaw's Crab House
- 2. Luke's Lobster City Hall
- 3. Half Shell
- 4. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
- 5. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 6. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
- 7. Catch 35
- 8. Chicago Oyster House
- 9. 3rd Coast Fish Bar (a DMK restaurant)
- 10. Goose Island Shrimp House
- 11. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 12. The Angry Crab
- 13. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks
- 14. RPM Seafood
- 15. Lure Fishbar - Chicago
- 16. Madison Crab House
- 17. Two Fish Crab Shack
- 18. DiCola's Seafood
- 19. King Crab House Chicago
- 20. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 21. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 22. Frank's Chicago Shrimp House
- 23. Ever Restaurant
- 24. Esmeralda's Lounge
1. Shaw's Crab House
Live Maine lobsters flown in daily, raw bar, and tableside grill

The first thing to try at this establishment is their incredible clam chowder. It stands out for its delicious and creamy consistency, making it a must-try for any seafood lover. Another excellent choice is the lobster sandwich, which also receives high praise.
Moving on to the clam chowder, the creamy texture is what makes it so enjoyable. It's easy to see why it's a customer favorite. The lobster sandwich is another standout menu item. Its fresh and high-quality lobster meat is sure to impress. Overall, the seafood offerings at this establishment are top-notch and not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Waterfront
- Dinner
Relate link
2. Luke's Lobster City Hall
Sustainable seafood, locally sourced ingredients, cozy atmosphere, friendly service

The rolls at this establishment are quite good, but the clam chowder is merely average. Despite being packed with clams and potatoes, it lacked other traditional ingredients such as bacon, carrots, or celery, and the broth was disappointing.
On the other hand, I found the clam chowder to be delightful. The serving size was generous, and I was initially unsure about the individual pouches that each serving came in. However, the product was shipped and delivered quickly while still frozen. After defrosting overnight in the refrigerator and warming on the stove, I thoroughly enjoyed the chowder.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
3. Half Shell
Half Shell also offers a lively atmosphere, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff, and a wide selection of beers and wines.

The clam chowder offered at this establishment is a must-try dish, known for its delicious and creamy texture. The soup is generously filled with clams, providing a satisfying and savory experience. Its rich and flavorful qualities make it an ideal choice for those looking to warm up on a chilly day.
This clam chowder is a standout dish, praised for its creamy consistency and abundance of clams. Its robust and savory taste makes it a must-have for soup lovers and seafood enthusiasts alike. The chowder's warmth and comforting nature make it a perfect selection for enjoying on a blustery day, providing a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
Relate link
4. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
Featuring a wide selection of fresh seafood, an extensive wine list, and a lively, upscale atmosphere.

The traditional clam chowder I enjoyed was creamy and flavorful, made with high-quality ingredients that made for a satisfying and delicious soup. The meal also included a walleye dish, which was cooked to perfection and had a delicate, flaky texture that was simply divine on the palate.
Bacon was another prominent component of the meal, adding a savory and smoky flavor to both the clam chowder and the walleye. Whether used as a garnish or integrated more heavily into the dishes, the bacon contributed significantly to the overall taste and enjoyment of the meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
5. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Sustainable seafood, locally sourced ingredients, caters to various dietary restrictions

The New England Clam Chowder was a delightful and tasty start to the meal, providing a warm and comforting experience, ideal for a cold Chicago evening. However, the star of the meal was the Pepper Jack Shrimp and Grits.
The Pepper Jack Shrimp and Grits stood out as the highlight of the meal. It was a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with the spicy pepper jack cheese and tender shrimp complementing the creamy grits. This dish truly shone and made a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
6. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Elegant atmosphere with classic surf and turf menu.

The Manhattan Clam Chowder stood out as a delicious and well-balanced dish, making it a great beginning to the meal. Its taste was enjoyable, although it did not leave a particularly memorable impression.
Only two items were ordered, with the Manhattan Clam Chowder being one of them. This soup had a delightful flavor, but its taste was not exceptional enough to be distinguished from other similar dishes.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
7. Catch 35
Incredible lake views, live jazz music, and elegant atmosphere.

The New England Clam Chowder was a standout dish in my order, featuring a delicious taste that I really enjoyed. One aspect that made it even more special was the unexpected but welcome touch of olive oil on top, which added a nice flavor and presentation.
Overall, my order included a variety of delicious dishes, but the New England Clam Chowder was particularly noteworthy. Its tasty flavor and unique presentation with olive oil on top made it a memorable part of my meal. I would highly recommend trying this dish if you have the chance.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- High-End
- Waterfront
8. Chicago Oyster House
Featuring a raw bar, daily specials, and a welcoming vibe, Chicago Oyster House is a must-visit for seafood lovers in the Windy City.

The clam chowder at this establishment is truly exceptional, leaving a lasting impression on diners. Freshness and flavor are the standout elements of their tuna poke, captivating the taste buds of many, including myself.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Celebrations
Relate link
9. 3rd Coast Fish Bar (a DMK restaurant)
features a raw bar, ocean-friendly seafood options, and a lively atmosphere

New England style clam chowder is a delightful soup, featuring celery, potato, and thyme. It's a must-try dish for anyone seeking a taste of this classic recipe. The chowder has a rich and creamy texture, with a delicate balance of flavors from the briny clams, aromatic celery, and earthy thyme. The potatoes provide a comforting thickness, while the celery adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.
Starting our meal with the clam chowder was an excellent choice. Its warmth and comforting flavors prepared us for the rest of the dining experience. The soup had a generous amount of clams, which added a satisfying seafood taste. The combination of ingredients was perfectly balanced, making each spoonful a delight. Overall, the New England style clam chowder was a perfect start to our meal, setting a high standard for the rest of the dishes we tried.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
10. Goose Island Shrimp House
This cozy, counter-serve seafood spot has been a neighborhood favorite for over 30 years.

The fried clams are a standout option at this take-out seafood restaurant, known for serving fresh and delicious seafood at affordable prices. The menu also includes shrimp, scallops, and clam strips, all of which are fried to perfection. The fast and friendly service contributes to the overall positive dining experience.
Located near Downtown Chicago, this take-out seafood spot is a great option for fresh and tasty fried seafood. The menu solely consists of fried items, but they are all skillfully prepared. The shrimp, scallops, and clam strips are particular favorites among customers. The food is cooked to order, ensuring its freshness and taste.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
Relate link
11. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Sustainable seafood options, casual atmosphere

The clam chowder, when it arrived, was hot and satisfying, ideal for the cool weather. The portion size was generous, providing a fulfilling meal.
The chowder had a rich, creamy consistency that was delightful with each spoonful. Its taste was delicious and satisfying, with a high-quality consistency that set it apart.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
12. The Angry Crab
Cajun-style seafood boil, fun and lively atmosphere, bring your own alcohol

The clam chowder was a popular choice, praised for its creamy texture and delightful taste. It was highly recommended by one enthusiast, while another customer was impressed by its richness and abundance of clams. Both parties expressed their intent to order it again.
Clearly, the clam chowder left a positive impression on these diners. Its creamy consistency and generous helping of clams were common points of praise. The individuals who tried it were eager to enjoy it again, highlighting the high quality of this particular dish.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
13. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks
Featuring a daily fresh seafood selection, live music, and a cozy atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect for special occasions or a nice night out.

The clam chowder was a mediocre start to the meal. I ordered the blackened redfish, priced at a steep $41. The fish did not meet my expectations.
My disappointment continued as the main course was not up to the mark. The blackened redfish that I ordered, priced at $41, was not as good as the fish I have had at home. The quality of the dish did not justify its high cost.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
14. RPM Seafood
sustainable seafood, river views, extensive wine list

RPM Italian's seafood options are truly outstanding, with RPM Clam Chowder, Butter Poached Lobster, and Crab Cake standing out as particularly noteworthy. Even those who have had their fair share of lobsters, as one might from California, are sure to be impressed by the exceptional quality of the Butter Poached Lobster. For those looking to try a few different dishes, the Cheese Baked Foccaccia, RPM Clam Chowder, and King Crab Mac and Cheese are all must-try options.
In addition to its exceptional seafood, RPM Italian also offers other standout dishes. The Fish and Chips, for example, is generously sized and can easily feed two people or one very hungry individual. With so many delicious options to choose from, RPM Italian is sure to be a hit with seafood lovers and foodies alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
15. Lure Fishbar - Chicago
Upscale seafood restaurant with a chic, nautical atmosphere and a raw bar

The wine list offered at the establishment is respectable, providing a variety of options to complement the meal. Among the standout dishes is the New England Clam Chowder, which is a must-try for any visitor. This chowder is rich and full of flavor, with a carefully balanced combination of clams and potatoes that leaves a lasting impression on the palate.
To follow the chowder, the vegetarian Bucatini is an excellent choice. This pasta dish is well-prepared and features a medley of fresh vegetables, all brought together in a delicious sauce that provides a satisfying end to the meal. Overall, the food at this establishment is a highlight, with the clam chowder standing out as a particularly memorable dish.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Waterfront
16. Madison Crab House
Family-owned seafood restaurant since 1982 with a lively bar scene

During a recent visit, the clam chowder stood out as a highlight of the meal. Its rich and flavorful consistency was immediately noteworthy. The chowder had a creamy texture and was filled with a generous amount of clams, adding to its delicious taste.
If you're looking for a must-try dish, the clam chowder is a top recommendation. Its delightful flavor and abundance of clams make it a standout option. The chowder is a delicious and satisfying choice that is sure to please.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
17. Two Fish Crab Shack
Family-owned seafood shack with a variety of fresh catches

The clam chowder served at this establishment is truly noteworthy. It boasts a rich and creamy consistency that is sure to please. The soup is filled with plump and flavorful clams, adding to the overall enjoyment of the dish. Its delicious taste makes it a must-try for any seafood lover.
This clam chowder is a standout among similar dishes. Its creamy texture, combined with an abundance of fresh and tasty clams, creates a truly satisfying dining experience. The soup's rich flavor will leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries it. Overall, it is a highly recommended dish that is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
Relate link
18. DiCola's Seafood
Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, famous for their garlic butter shrimp

The clam chowder offered at this location is a standout dish, known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. It provides a delightful experience for the taste buds, making it a must-try for visitors.
The soup features a harmonious balance of clams and potatoes, both of which are generously included in every serving. This balance creates a satisfying and well-rounded flavor profile that adds to the overall enjoyment of the dish. The clam chowder here is a true testament to the culinary skills of the chef, showcasing their ability to create a dish that is both delicious and perfectly balanced.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems
19. King Crab House Chicago
Cozy and casual atmosphere with a lively bar scene, perfect for both family dinners and nights out with friends.

The clam chowder we tried was disappointing, which could be due to an isolated incident or an off night for the restaurant. Moving on to the positive aspects of our dining experience, the service was commendable. The staff members were attentive and ensured that we had a pleasant time. They were quick to attend to our needs and made us feel welcome.
As for the food, we had high hopes for the clam chowder, but the taste and texture were not up to the mark. However, the other dishes we ordered made up for this shortcoming. They had a great variety of options on the menu, and we enjoyed trying different flavors. The dishes were well-presented, and the quality of ingredients was evident in the taste. Overall, despite the clam chowder not meeting our expectations, we had a good dining experience, thanks to the excellent service and delicious food options.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
20. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Sustainable seafood, casual atmosphere, family-friendly

Clam chowder is a popular and delicious soup, often enjoyed as a comfort food. It is known for its creamy texture and savory taste, which comes from the combination of clams, potatoes, onions, and other seasonings. Truffle tots, on the other hand, are a crispy and flavorful twist on the classic tater tot. These bite-sized potato nuggets are coated in a fragrant truffle oil, which adds an extra layer of richness and elegance to the dish.
When these two dishes are combined, the result is a truly amazing culinary experience. The clam chowder truffle tots are the perfect combination of creamy and crispy, with a delicious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. The briny taste of the clams is balanced by the rich and earthy truffle oil, while the potatoes add a satisfying crunch to every bite. Whether enjoyed as a appetizer or a main course, the clam chowder truffle tots are sure to be a hit.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Waterfront
Relate link
21. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Sustainable seafood options, casual counter service, and diverse menu

The Brown Bag establishment provides a satisfying dining experience, as evidenced by the absence of any complaints regarding their food. The service is commendable, and the lobster roll and chowder are particularly noteworthy for their quality.
Diners who have visited Brown Bag have nothing but positive things to say about their experience. The service stands out for its excellence, and the lobster roll and chowder are among the top recommendations. These menu items are clearly crowd favorites, showcasing the restaurant's culinary expertise.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Waterfront
22. Frank's Chicago Shrimp House
Family-owned and operated since 1975, Chicago-style seafood

The clam chowder in question was enjoyed in two different experiences, each with a unique takeaway. For one individual, the chowder was a delightful culinary experience, offering a creamy and delicious taste that was ideal for a chilly day. The warm and comforting soup seemed to hit the spot, providing a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
However, a second person's experience with the same clam chowder was less positive. While they had anticipated a flavorful and satisfying meal, the soup did not meet their expectations. It was described as merely "okay," indicating a level of disappointment or underwhelming impression. This individual may have been expecting a stronger flavor profile or a different texture, resulting in a less positive review. Overall, while the clam chowder was presumably the same in both instances, the subjective experiences of the two individuals diverged significantly.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
Relate link
23. Ever Restaurant
Cozy atmosphere, sustainable seafood, daily specials

Ever Restaurant, located at 1340 W Fulton St in Chicago, offers an impressive food experience. The setting is stylish and sophisticated, yet it also manages to be understated and muted. The ambiance is tastefully done, making it a great place for special occasions or a night out. The service at Ever Restaurant is friendly and amiable, adding to the overall positive experience.
The latest reviews, photos, and ratings for Ever Restaurant are available online. The restaurant's menu features a variety of dishes, including appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Patrons can view the menu, hours, address, and map online, making it easy to plan a visit. The restaurant has received high ratings and positive reviews from previous diners, indicating that it is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
- High-End
24. Esmeralda's Lounge
A hidden gem in Chicago with a loyal local following and a warm atmosphere.

Esmeralda's Lounge is home to a clam chowder that should not be missed. It has a rich and savory flavor profile that is sure to impress. The hearty texture, combined with the perfectly balanced seasoning, makes this dish a standout.
If you're a fan of creamy and flavorful soups, Esmeralda's Lounge's clam chowder is a must-try. It is perfectly balanced, with a velvety texture that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied. The generous amount of clams adds to the overall experience, making this a dish that is worthy of a try.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
- Vegan Options