Food & Drink

Get Hooked: Bite into Chicago’s Top 13 Seafood Markets!

Chicago is a city that boasts of a rich seafood culture, and it is no surprise that there are numerous seafood markets scattered around the city.

For seafood lovers, there is no better place to experience fresh and tasty seafood than Chicago's seafood markets.

Chicago's seafood markets offer an array of seafood options ranging from fresh fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster, to smoked fish and canned seafood.

These markets are known for their quality seafood and affordable prices, making them a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.

The seafood markets in Chicago pride themselves on providing fresh and sustainable seafood that is locally sourced. This not only ensures that the seafood is of the highest quality but also promotes the local fishing industry.

In addition to providing fresh seafood, these markets also offer a variety of cooking options, including grilling, smoking, and frying, to ensure that the seafood is cooked to perfection.

Whether you are a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a delicious meal, Chicago's seafood markets have something to offer.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best seafood markets in Chicago, highlighting their unique offerings and the reasons why they stand out from the rest. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in some of the best seafood Chicago has to offer.

1. Hagen's Fish Market

Hagen's Fish Market
5635 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60634 (Google Maps)

Hagen's Fish Market is a must-visit seafood market for any seafood lover. Their fresh and smoked fish is the star of the show, and customers rave about the delicious seafood salad and sandwiches.

The market also offers a nice selection of kitchen condiments, especially for the holiday season.

Though a bit pricey, the quality of the food is well worth it. The staff provides excellent service and has a welcoming attitude.

With over 30 years of good food and great smells, Hagen's Fish Market is a Chicago culinary institution that should not be missed.

2. Time Out Market Chicago

Time Out Market Chicago
916 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 (Google Maps)

Time Out Market Chicago is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This food hall offers a wide range of seafood options, from fresh oysters to grilled octopus.

The market has over 20 different stations, each with its unique seafood dishes.

The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The seating is plentiful and comfortable, and the service is quick and efficient.

Don't miss out on trying some of the best seafood Chicago has to offer at Time Out Market Chicago.

3. Dirk's Fish & Gourmet Shop

Dirk's Fish & Gourmet Shop
2070 N Clybourn Ave unit b, Chicago, IL 60614 (Google Maps)

Dirk's Fish & Gourmet Shop offers a top-notch selection of fresh seafood, including sashimi quality fish and live lobsters.

The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, providing excellent customer service.

They also offer prepared meals, salads, and sauces, as well as cooking classes. The prices may be steep, but it's worth it for the quality of the seafood.

If you're a seafood lover, Dirk's Fish & Gourmet Shop is a must-visit destination.

4. Wild Fork

Wild Fork
2340 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618 (Google Maps)

Wild Fork is a seafood market, frozen food store, and grocery store that offers a wide selection of high-quality meats and seafood at affordable prices.

The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, making shopping a breeze. The market has a huge selection of specialty and hard-to-find culinary delights, including escargot bacon, foie gras, and black salt.

Although everything is frozen, the quality of the products is not compromised. Wild Fork is a great place to find unique meats and seafood, and the prices are very reasonable.

Customers won't be disappointed with the amazing selection and friendly service.

5. The Fishguy Market & Wellfleet

The Fishguy Market & Wellfleet
4423 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60630 (Google Maps)

The Fishguy Market & Wellfleet is a seafood market that offers a wide variety of top quality fresh fish, including some sushi grade options.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to answer any questions. The market also sells super fresh shellfish and seafood, as well as delicious prepared foods at reasonable prices.

They are a family-owned business with an authentic New England lobster roll on the menu.

The only downside is the limited selection, but if you are flexible, it is a great place to shop. Highly recommended for those in search of great quality fish.

6. Crab Island Seafood Market

Crab Island Seafood Market
9119 S Commercial Ave, Chicago, IL 60617 (Google Maps)

Crab Island Seafood Market is a seafood market that offers some of the best seafood around.

The food is bursting with flavor and the house seasoning is a must-try. The steamed shrimp is a fan favorite and the portions are generous.

The customer service could be better, but the food more than makes up for it. The Cajun, garlic butter, and house sauce together is a hit.

The salmon boil is excellent, moist, tasty, and filling. This market is definitely worth a visit for seafood lovers.

7. Hooked on Fish

Hooked On Fish
1036 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, IL 60660 (Google Maps)

Hooked on Fish is a seafood market that prides itself on offering carefully selected and always fresh fish.

Their weekly variety is impressive, with descriptions that are spot on. Customers have the option to join a Pay-as-you-go membership, allowing for flexibility.

The portion sizes are great, and the quality of the fish is better than any options found at local grocery stores.

With a range of fish to choose from, including whitefish, ahi tuna, salmon, sea bass, and sushi grade bluefin tuna, there is something for everyone. Joining the Hooked on Fish community means gaining access to the very best quality fish.

8. Chitown Fish & Seafood, LLC

Chitown Fish & Seafood, Llc
4433 W 42nd Pl, Chicago, IL 60632 (Google Maps)

Chitown Fish & Seafood, LLC is a local seafood market that offers quality products at great prices.

Their seafood boil has become a popular choice among the guys at the firehouse.

The staff is friendly and helpful, making the shopping experience enjoyable. As a seafood wholesaler, they offer a wide range of seafood options.

If you're in the market for fresh seafood, Chitown Fish & Seafood, LLC is definitely worth checking out.

9. Seafood Junction Madison St

Seafood Junction Madison St
2325 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612 (Google Maps)

Seafood Junction Madison St is a seafood market that stands out for its top-notch customer service and fresh food.

The market is clean and well-organized, making it a pleasant shopping experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, helping customers select the best seafood for their needs.

The seafood is always fresh and of high quality, making it a go-to spot for seafood lovers.

Whether you're looking for fish, shrimp, or any other type of seafood, Seafood Junction Madison St is a great place to go.

10. Fish Corner & Meat

Fish Corner & Meat
6408 N Campbell Ave, Chicago, IL 60645 (Google Maps)

Fish Corner & Meat is a Bangladeshi seafood market that offers a great variety of fresh water fish and other Asian groceries.

They have a large selection of small and large desi fishes that are well-preserved and have a long expiration date.

The store is compact and cozy, providing both frozen and fresh shrimp, catfish, mackerel, and pomfret.

Customers can also find different types of pickles and other desi groceries. Although the prices are a bit high, it is a must-visit place for those who love desi fish.

11. Seafood Junction

Seafood Junction
4515 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60640 (Google Maps)

Seafood Junction offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including crab legs, lobster tails, mussels, and different types of fish.

The staff is professional, friendly, and helpful with any questions. The market is clean and well-stocked.

The menu has something for everyone, and the seafood is cooked to perfection.

They also accept EBT for seafood. If you're looking for high-quality seafood, Seafood Junction is a great option.

12. The Crab House

The Crab House
1049 W 103rd St, Chicago, IL 60643 (Google Maps)

The Crab House is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. This market offers fresh and delicious seafood that is cooked to perfection.

Customers rave about the crab legs that are never overcooked, unlike in other seafood restaurants.

The staff is friendly and provides excellent customer service. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.

The market is clean and has a roomy atmosphere. The Crab House is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys seafood, whether steamed or fried.

13. Market Fisheries

Market Fisheries
7129 S State St, Chicago, IL 60619 (Google Maps)

Market Fisheries is a seafood market that has been around for over 60 years.

They offer a wide variety of fresh seafood, including crabmeat and fish from both fresh and saltwater.

The store is clean and well-organized, and the employees are knowledgeable about their craft.

Despite the crowds, the lines move quickly, and the service is efficient. Market Fisheries is a great place to go for fresh fish in the neighborhood.