As a seafood lover, there's nothing quite like a well-made crab cake. There's something about the mix of sweet crab meat, savory spices, and crunchy breadcrumbs that just hits the spot.
And if you're in Chicago, you're in luck – there are plenty of places in the city to get your crab cake fix.
But with so many options, how do you know where to go? That's where I come in.
As a local who's tried her fair share of crab cakes, I'm here to give you the lowdown on the best places to find this seafood delicacy in Chicago.
From fancy restaurants to casual dives, there's a crab cake spot for every taste and budget. Whether you're a purist who wants nothing but crab meat and seasoning, or you prefer your cakes loaded up with veggies and sauce, there's a spot for you in this city.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to plan your next crab cake adventure – I've got you covered.
1. Joe's Seafood
Joe's Seafood is a must-visit for crab cake lovers. The crab cakes are simply amazing and definitely worth trying.
The service is top-notch, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are always ready to assist.
The upscale atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience, making it a great place for a special occasion or a romantic evening out.
The prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and service make it worth it. If you're in the mood for some of the best crab cakes around, Joe's Seafood is the place to be.
2. Shaw's Crab House
Shaw's Crab House is a seafood restaurant and oyster bar that serves top-notch crab cakes.
The quality of service and seafood is exceptional, and the ingredients are of the highest quality. The restaurant has a great ambiance and a terrific bar selection.
The wait staff is very attentive and friendly, and the food is fantastic. Though the costs are above average, the quality of the experience justifies them.
Shaw's Crab House is a must-visit for seafood lovers who appreciate quality ingredients and excellent service.
3. The Dearborn
The Dearborn is a stylish American tavern that serves up some amazing crab cakes.
The cakes are packed with juicy, succulent crab meat and are perfectly seasoned. The restaurant's atmosphere is cozy, with a warm and inviting vibe.
The service is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu. The Dearborn is a great spot to grab a bite with friends or family, or to enjoy a romantic dinner for two.
The restaurant is definitely worth checking out for anyone looking for a delicious crab cake experience.
4. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is a fine dining restaurant that offers classic American fare in a refined setting.
The restaurant is known for its excellent crab cakes, which are cooked to perfection and packed with flavor.
The attentive staff ensures that every guest feels welcomed and comfortable. The atmosphere is classy and upscale, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
The Capital Grille is a must-visit for anyone looking for a high-quality dining experience.
5. Goose Island Shrimp House
Looking for the best crab cakes in town, look no further than Goose Island Shrimp House. This cash-only carryout spot offers more than just seafood.
But the signature jumbo shrimp, oysters, catfish, and crab cakes are the real stars of the menu. The crab cakes are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.
The breading is light and not greasy, allowing the flavor of the crab to shine through. The portions are generous, making it a great value for the price.
Don't forget to bring your own sauce to enhance the experience. The service is quick, making it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner. Goose Island Shrimp House is a must-visit for seafood lovers in the area.
6. Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Eddie V's Prime Seafood is a must-visit for seafood lovers looking for a fine-dining experience. The crab cakes are a standout dish, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
The live jazz music adds to the ambiance, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic night out.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu and make recommendations to enhance your dining experience.
Don't miss out on this upscale seafood restaurant.
7. Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime is a sophisticated seafood and steakhouse that offers delicious crab cakes. The restaurant has a high-end ambiance, and the service is exceptional.
The menu has a variety of dishes, including sea scallops, fillet mignon, and truffle fries. The staff is knowledgeable and can provide details about the dishes.
The crab cakes are fresh and tasty, making them a must-try dish at Ocean Prime.
The restaurant is an upscale establishment that is perfect for a special date night or a family party. The prices are on the higher side, but the experience is worth the cost.
8. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House is a top-notch seafood restaurant known for its crab cakes, steaks, and frog legs.
The crab cakes are massive and delicious, and the frog legs are tender and sweet.
The atmosphere is upscale and contemporary, making it a perfect spot for a date or a formal gathering.
The service is attentive and professional, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu. If you're looking for a great seafood meal, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House is definitely worth a visit.
9. RPM Seafood
RPM Seafood is a must-visit for crab cake lovers. This upscale, riverfront restaurant offers excellent seafood-based fine dining with an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
The service is exceptional, and the staff is accommodating of food allergies.
The crab cakes are a standout dish, and the seafood tower is packed with fresh and succulent seafood.
The restaurant is spacious, and reservations are recommended. RPM Seafood is perfect for a special occasion or a night out on the town.
10. Tortoise Supper Club
Tortoise Supper Club is a must-visit for crab cake lovers. Their crab cakes are simply divine, with a crispy outer layer and a moist, flavorful interior.
The restaurant's upscale ambiance and live jazz music only add to the experience.
The service is attentive and knowledgeable, and the drinks menu is extensive.
If you're looking for a special evening out, Tortoise Supper Club is the perfect spot.
11. Catch 35
Catch 35 is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers. The crab cakes are a standout dish, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.
The fresh seafood is of high quality and the menu offers a variety of options.
The service is attentive and the atmosphere is upscale yet comfortable.
Make sure to make a reservation as this popular spot fills up quickly.
12. Kinzie Chophouse
Kinzie Chophouse is a steakhouse staple that also serves delicious crab cakes.
The restaurant has a spacious dining room and offers a fine dining experience.
The attentive wait staff is knowledgeable about the menu and provides great service. The crab cakes are flavorful and cooked to perfection.
Kinzie Chophouse is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality dining experience.
13. Brown Bag Seafood Co
Brown Bag Seafood Co is a seafood restaurant that impresses with its crab cakes. The crab cakes are packed with flavor and are a must-try for seafood lovers.
The restaurant has a nice, casual vibe and offers a great selection of seafood dishes.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the service is excellent. The restaurant is a great place to stop for lunch or an early dinner bite.
If you're looking for delicious crab cakes, Brown Bag Seafood Co is the place to go.
