Chicago is a city that loves its seafood, and there's nothing quite like a perfectly grilled shrimp to satisfy those cravings. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a fancy dinner, the Windy City has plenty of options to choose from.
From casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, there's no shortage of places to indulge in some of the best grilled shrimp around.
Grilled shrimp is a dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a topping for salads or pasta dishes.
Grilled shrimp is versatile and can be prepared in a number of different ways, depending on the chef's preferences. Some restaurants serve it simply with a squeeze of lemon, while others add spices and herbs for a more complex flavor.
If you're a fan of seafood, you won't want to miss out on the best grilled shrimp in Chicago. With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start.
That's why we've put together a list of some of the best places in the city where you can indulge in some delicious grilled shrimp. Whether you're a local or just visiting, be sure to add these places to your list of must-try restaurants.
1. Joe's Seafood
If you're looking for delicious grilled shrimp, Joe's Seafood is a must-visit.
The quality of the seafood is top-notch and the service is excellent.
The vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service make for a memorable dining experience.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to try their other upmarket fare and cocktails.
2. Goose Island Shrimp House
Looking for the best place for grilled shrimp in town that won't break the bank but will satisfy your taste buds in every way possible, then Goose Island Shrimp House is the place to be.
This cash-only, carryout joint serves up some of the best jumbo shrimp, oysters, and catfish that are seasoned to perfection and cooked to order.
The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. While the service may be slow at times, the wait is worth it as the food is always fresh and delicious.
So, if you're in the mood for some mouth-watering seafood, head over to Goose Island Shrimp House and indulge in some of the best-grilled shrimp in town.
3. Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Eddie V's Prime Seafood is a great place for grilled shrimp. The service is excellent, and the seafood is fresh.
The plating is beautiful, and the live jazz music adds to the great atmosphere.
The crab cake, sea bass, and crab fried rice are all highly recommended. The steak tartar is a bit bland, but there are plenty of other delicious options to choose from.
The prices are a bit high, but it's worth it for the delicious food and excellent service.
4. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
Looking for a place to enjoy some delicious grilled shrimp in a contemporary setting with a cool vibe and excellent service in town, look no further than Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House.
This upscale seafood restaurant is famous for its fresh and tasty seafood, including the grilled shrimp, which is cooked to perfection.
The bartenders here are super and suggest the perfect drinks to go with your meal.
The atmosphere is comfortable and inviting, making it the perfect place for a date or to meet with friends. Highly recommended for seafood lovers in search of a fine dining experience.
5. Calumet Fisheries
Calumet Fisheries is a seafood institution that has been around since 1928.
This no-frills seafood shack serves up some of the best grilled shrimp in town, along with house-smoked fish and fried seafood platters.
The wait can be long, but it's worth it for the unique sauce that accompanies the shrimp. The establishment is cash only, but there is an ATM on site.
The limited seating makes it a great spot for a quick bite or take-out. If you're a fan of seafood, Calumet Fisheries is a must-try spot.
6. Frank's Chicago Shrimp House
Looking for the best grilled shrimp in Chicago that won't break the bank and tastes amazing every time you visit a restaurant, Frank's Chicago Shrimp House is the place to go.
This long-standing establishment is known for its delicious and fresh seafood, especially its signature dish, the Chicago-style shrimp.
The staff is friendly, and the service is quick, making it an ideal spot for a quick lunch or satisfying dinner.
With its crispy and succulent shrimp, Frank's Chicago Shrimp House is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
7. Luke's Lobster City Hall
Luke's Lobster City Hall is a seafood restaurant that serves Maine-style lobster rolls and clam chowder. The restaurant is known for its amazing customer service and fresh, flavorful seafood.
The grilled shrimp is a must-try, with perfectly seasoned and juicy shrimp that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to help customers choose the best dishes for their taste.
If you're looking for a great seafood restaurant with delicious grilled shrimp, Luke's Lobster City Hall is the place to go.
8. Half Shell
Half Shell is a no-frills seafood restaurant that serves delicious grilled shrimp.
The outdoor seating is perfect for a comfortable family experience. The jumbo shrimp are lightly breaded and are definitely worth trying.
The cash-only restaurant also offers other seafood options like King Crab and fried shrimp.
The service is attentive and the atmosphere is casual. If you're a seafood lover, Half Shell is worth checking out.
9. El Cangrejo seafood restaurant
El Cangrejo seafood restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
The grilled shrimp with crab legs is a standout dish that is seasoned to perfection. The restaurant has a great ambiance and friendly staff.
It's BYOB, which is a plus, and the prices are reasonable. Be prepared to wait on weekends, but it's definitely worth it.
All in all, El Cangrejo seafood restaurant is a great place to enjoy delicious seafood.
10. Catch 35
Catch 35 is a chic seafood restaurant that serves some of the best grilled shrimp in town. The shrimp is fresh and cooked to perfection, with a juicy texture and a smoky flavor that will melt in your mouth.
The portions are on the smaller side, but they are perfect for a light meal or as an appetizer.
The restaurant has a great atmosphere, with a full bar and live music that creates a lively ambiance.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that customers have a great dining experience. Catch 35 is a must-visit for seafood lovers who want to try the best grilled shrimp in town.
11. Shrimp Island
Shrimp Island is a seafood restaurant that serves delicious grilled shrimp. Customers rave about the jumbo shrimp, which are cooked to perfection.
The fried mushrooms, crab salad, and fish chips are also popular menu items.
The establishment is clean and the customer service is excellent. Prices are reasonable and the hot sauce is a must-try.
The quick service and tasty food make Shrimp Island a great local spot for seafood lovers.
12. Captain Shrimp
Captain Shrimp is a must-visit if you're a seafood lover. This small restaurant takes pride in their high-quality Gulf shrimp, which they grill to perfection.
But that's not all – their homemade crabcakes are a must-try.
The tartar sauce is said to be the best in the world, and customers rave about the fried scallops and mushrooms.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're in the mood for some delicious seafood, Captain Shrimp is the place to go.
13. Brown Bag Seafood Co
Brown Bag Seafood Co is a great place to go for grilled shrimp. The restaurant has a casual and friendly vibe, making it a perfect hangout spot.
The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. The grilled shrimp over Cobb salad is a must-try, as it is delicious.
The lobster roll is fresh and the clam chowder is very thick. The restaurant also offers outdoor seating, providing a nice view of the city skyline across the street from Millennium Park.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. Vegans and pescetarians alike will enjoy this place.
14. Shrimp Shack
Shrimp Shack is a seafood restaurant that specializes in grilled shrimp. The restaurant has a clean and cozy atmosphere, with large windows that let in natural light.
The staff is friendly and courteous, and the service is quick. The menu offers a variety of options, including jumbo shrimp, crab cakes, scallops, and alligator.
The grilled shrimp are fresh and delicious, and they can be ordered by the pound. The restaurant also serves salads, fries, and French rolls as sides.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. If you're a seafood lover, Shrimp Shack is definitely worth a try.
15. Fish Bar
Fish Bar is a small, casual seafood spot that serves sustainably sourced seafood in various forms.
The menu is ever-changing but always features something amazing. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
The grilled shrimp is a must-try dish that is always cooked to perfection. The restaurant also offers a limited but satisfying drink menu.
Prices are a bit on the higher side, but the quality of the food and service make it worth it. Fish Bar is a great local spot for seafood lovers that shouldn't be missed.
16. Ina Mae
Ina Mae is a retro-style bar and grill that serves up some delicious grilled shrimp.
The shrimp is perfectly cooked and seasoned, making it a standout dish on their menu.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, with live music and a New Orleans vibe.
If you're in the mood for some tasty seafood, Ina Mae is definitely worth checking out.
17. The Angry Crab
The Angry Crab is a seafood restaurant that serves grilled shrimp and other seafood dishes. The platters are delicious but a bit small for the price.
The seafood is fresh and well-seasoned, and the service is great. The atmosphere is laid back and casual, and it's BYOB.
The restaurant can get busy, so it's best to arrive early. The menu is extensive, and the server is helpful in explaining the options.
The credit card machines can have issues, so it's best to bring cash. The restaurant is a great spot for seafood lovers, and it's worth a visit.
18. Alegrias Seafood Chicago
Alegrias Seafood Chicago is a bustling Mexican-style seafood restaurant that offers a wide variety of high-quality seafood dishes.
Their grilled shrimp is a must-try, perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection. The menu is extensive, so there's something for everyone.
The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Don't forget to bring your own beer to enjoy with your meal.
Alegrias Seafood Chicago is a great choice for seafood lovers looking for a delicious and satisfying meal.
