Chicago, known for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, might surprise you with its vibrant seafood scene. While landlocked, the city boasts an impressive array of restaurants offering delectable shrimp dishes. This guide dives into 23 of the best places to indulge in shrimp in Chicago, catering to various tastes and budgets. We'll explore different preparations, atmospheres, and price points to help you find your perfect shrimp haven.
Top Shrimp Dishes & Restaurants: A Culinary Journey
This curated list categorizes Chicago's shrimp havens for easier navigation. Remember, restaurant menus and offerings can change, so it's always a good idea to check online before visiting.
Upscale Shrimp Experiences:
- RPM Italian: This stylish River North spot offers exquisite shrimp scampi with perfectly cooked pasta. Expect a lively ambiance and refined service.
- Smyth: A Michelin-starred restaurant, Smyth provides an innovative tasting menu that often features unique shrimp preparations. Be ready for a culinary adventure.
- Monteverde: Known for its exquisite Italian dishes, Monteverde sometimes features seasonal shrimp dishes that are both creative and delicious. Check their menu for daily specials.
Mid-Range Marvels:
- Andros Taverna: Experience authentic Greek flavors with their succulent grilled shrimp. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a casual yet satisfying meal.
- Shaw's Crab House: While known for crab, Shaw's also offers a variety of delicious shrimp dishes, cooked to perfection. It's a classic choice for seafood lovers.
- Pacific Standard Time: This West Loop restaurant offers a creative take on Californian cuisine, often featuring shrimp in their seasonal menus. Their cocktails are also top-notch.
- The Purple Pig: This tapas-style restaurant offers a variety of small plates, including several shrimp options. It's a great choice for sharing and exploring diverse flavors.
- Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: While known for its steak, Bavette's also has a refined seafood selection that includes delectable shrimp preparations.
- Rosebud on Rush: This classic Chicago Italian restaurant offers reliable and delicious shrimp dishes, perfectly complementing their other Italian fare.
Casual & Affordable Shrimp Delights:
- Portillo's: While primarily known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Portillo's offers a surprisingly good shrimp po'boy. It's a quick, casual option.
- Lou Mitchell's: This classic diner offers simple but delicious shrimp dishes for a classic Chicago experience.
- DMK Burger Bar: Their shrimp burger is a flavorful and unique twist on the classic burger. Expect a casual, fun atmosphere.
- Pequod's Pizza: This deep-dish institution offers a unique shrimp pizza, a flavorful combination of shrimp and their signature caramelized crust.
Hidden Gems & Unique Offerings:
- Lao Sze Chuan: This spot serves up spicy and flavorful Sichuan cuisine, with unique shrimp preparations. Be warned: it's spicy!
- Bohemian House: Their modern take on Czech cuisine often includes creative shrimp dishes as seasonal specials. Check their menu.
- Kuma's Corner: Known for their gourmet burgers, Kuma's also has a surprising shrimp dish that makes it worth a visit.
- Aba: This Mediterranean spot features a lively atmosphere and interesting shrimp options.
Seafood Markets with Cooked-to-Order Shrimp:
- Pesca Seafood Grill & Market: This restaurant also features a market allowing you to select fresh shrimp and have it prepared to your liking.
- Wicker Park Seafood Market: This market allows you to select your shrimp and have it cooked in various styles.
Beyond the Restaurant: Shrimp Experiences
- Street Food Festivals: Chicago hosts numerous summer food festivals, some featuring shrimp vendors offering creative and affordable options. Keep an eye out for local event listings.
- Grocery Store Options: Many high-quality grocery stores offer pre-cooked shrimp or fresh shrimp for home cooking.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Shrimp Spot
- Price Point: From budget-friendly diners to upscale restaurants, Chicago offers shrimp options for every budget.
- Cuisine Style: Explore various cuisines, from Italian and Greek to Asian and Californian, all offering unique shrimp preparations.
- Ambiance: Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a casual meal with friends, or a lively party atmosphere, Chicago has a shrimp spot to match.
- Location: Choose a restaurant convenient to your location or desired neighborhood.
Conclusion: Your Chicago Shrimp Adventure Awaits!
Chicago's shrimp scene is diverse and exciting, offering something for everyone. This guide provides a starting point for your culinary journey. Don't be afraid to venture beyond the well-known spots and discover your own hidden shrimp gems. Happy eating!
