23 Seafood Restaurants In ILLINOIS (Authentic, Fresh & Lush)

Illinois is a famous tourist destination not just in the United States but also across the world.

Given these well-known attractions, many travelers want to visit the state’s lovely landmarks.

Because many people visit Illinois, restaurants have become famous because of their authentic and superb dishes.

Seafood restaurants are one of these businesses.

Different seafood restaurants in Illinois are outstanding enough to gain recognition from numerous online websites.

Since Illinois is close to various sources of fishing, the seafood sector was an appropriate choice for a restaurant.

This article will provide complete information if you want to learn more about the best restaurants to visit in Illinois.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Italian Restaurants in Illinois.

Seafood Restaurants in Chicago, Illinois

1. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood (Private Event Spaces)

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood Restaurant is one of the greatest restaurants in Chicago for high-quality seafood and steaks.

Combining and selling two of the most expensive products in any restaurant made this establishment popular and loved by many people.

Eddie V’s always brings the finest seafood to your table.

While dining and serenaded by live music, you will appreciate the exquisite environment and tranquil interior.

This seafood restaurant serves tender and expertly cooked steak dishes if you like a heavier and more satisfying meal.

Favorite dishes include Lobster Bisque and Steak Oscar.

Eddie V’s is also available for private meetings, with two private rooms accommodating 45 people and a semi-private space accommodating 120 people.

You will undoubtedly fall in love with the greatest flavors of the dishes at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, as well as the accommodating staff who will serve you expertly.

Address: 521 N Rush St, Chicago, Illinois 60611

2. Catch 35 (Ideal for Big Events)

A beautiful seafood haven awaits you among the streets of Downtown Naperville.

Catch 35 assures that the freshest fish is always served on your tables.

This restaurant is one of Chicago’s best seafood restaurants.

In this restaurant, you can just be yourself because you can wear your best comfortable clothes as long as they are presentable.

The interior of Catch 35 is warm, sophisticated, and elegant.

Atlantic Salmon, Braised Beef Short rib, Nashville Hot Chicken, Chilean Sea Bass, and Bank Scallops Surf and Turf are among the most popular dishes.

The guaranteed good news is that Catch 35 is also available for delivery and pick-up.

It is also open to big events and private parties.

If you seek the ultimate comfort seafood restaurant that guarantees fulfillment, go to Catch 35.

Address: 35 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601-1723

3. Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab (Top-Quality Meat Dishes)

People are eager about this seafood restaurant since it incorporates the best in Florida and brings it to other locations around the United States.

Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab is a powerful and brilliant collaboration between one of the leading food companies in the U.S. and a classic seafood restaurant in Florida, Joe’s Stone Crab.

People’s palates will undoubtedly crave more USDA-class prime cut meats, fresh seafood, and the famous Stone Crab claws that originated and were first renowned in Florida, and it’s all here.

Remember to prepare ahead of time because this restaurant fills up quickly; therefore, reservations are a must.

Even those not fond of fish will like the seafood dishes served here due to the high quality and excellent preparation.

Stone Crab claws are a clear favorite and the best choice.

The Filet Mignon is outstanding since it is always cooked to perfection, and the seafood salad tastes so good that you’ll keep asking for more.

This restaurant is a must-visit eating spot, so take advantage of it.

Address: 60 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

4. Ocean Prime (Classy Atmosphere)

The Ocean Prime is a seafood restaurant located on the intersection of Michigan Avenue and the upper end of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, offering a broad range of the greatest seafood meals that the public craves.

It is the ideal choice for a wonderful meal any day of the week, a simple happy hour, or a lively cocktail hour.

This seafood restaurant has a beautiful setting and vibrant decor.

The menu includes delicious seafood selections, steak, signature drinks, desserts, and more, which makes it an ideal location for meeting new people, holding meetings and events, or simply socializing.

It is also a fantastic spot for a romantic date because of the classy atmosphere at night and the delicious and intimate dishes like fresh sushi, caviar devilled eggs, oysters, and sea scallop risotto.

If you prefer meat, you will love it because this restaurant also provides quality steaks, chicken, lamb, and pork.

Ocean Prime’s service is popular for being well-organized and top-standard.

Prices are also quite reasonable, especially given the large food servings.

Address: 87 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

5. Shaw’s Crab House (Seasonal Seafood Offerings)

Shaw Crab’s House has served fresh seafood with traditional recipes since 1984.

Everything you order in this restaurant is guaranteed fresh, which is why many guests return, and others come to try it.

All items are clean and crisp, from the freshly shucked oysters to the sushi cooked to order and the 40 seafood dishes available.

Shaw Crab’s House aims to represent a straightforward, concise, and professional service.

Even if some items are only offered during certain seasons, the restaurant’s management is dedicated to making the clients happy and keeping them available.

It includes Alaskan King Crabs, King Salmon, and Nantucket Bay Scallops.

Because of the long period the owners have been operating the restaurant and offering the people one of the finest seafood dishes in the city, guests consider them to be the monument to fish and seafood.

Shaw Crab’s House is often busy, but there is good news: reservations are accepted.

Address: 21 E Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60611-3512

6. Hugo’s Frog Bar and Fish House (Daily Fresh Oysters)

Hugo’s Frog Bar and Fish House will satisfy you if you’re looking for an authentic seafood destination in Chicago.

This seafood restaurant is famous for the greatest seafood dishes and for something unique and delicious.

Hugo’s Frog Bar and Fish House serve the finest oysters, crudos, lobster, and seafood.

Try something different by ordering the frog legs, one of the staple dishes here.

This seafood restaurant is rated as the premier seafood restaurant in Chicago because of its big servings and shared sides.

The most popular dishes are New England Clam Chowder, Butter Poached Lobster Roll, Halibut T-bone, Lobster Escargot, and fresh Oysters, which are flown in daily and delivered the following day to the restaurant.

Premium meat dishes are available if you enjoy meat but want to experience fresh seafood here.

Address: 1024 N Rush St. Chicago, IL 60611

Also see our article on Date Ideas in Illinois.

Seafood Restaurants in Springfield, Illinois

1. Long John’s Silvers (Popular Fish & Chips)

Long John’s Silvers seafood restaurant is popular and appreciated because the owners are committed and passionate about offering the greatest seafood dishes in town.

Every moment at this seafood restaurant is an opportunity to celebrate the cuisine everyone loves and the place everyone adores the sea.

It has long been common information that the owners of this seafood restaurant thought that the unique seafood experience available at Long John’s Silvers should be open to everybody.

When dining at Long John’s Silvers, you can expect friendly service and excellent food.

The original Fish and Chips is one of this seafood restaurant’s finest and most popular dishes.

It used to be mainly fried dishes, but grilled items have been included, as well as a guest favorite.

The owner continuously works to maintain Long John’s Silvers’ reputation: their seafood is fresh from the ocean.

Address: 2929 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield IL

2. Chesapeake Seafood House (Blend of Southern Charm)

Chesapeake seafood restaurant perfectly fits the criteria of a seafood restaurant with a blend of Southern charm and urban flair.

This seafood restaurant will satisfy your senses and ensure your contentment with home-cooked meal quality at an affordable price.

Nothing beats eating the freshest seafood dishes while enjoying a pleasant view, which Chesapeake seafood restaurant will undoubtedly provide.

Numerous people are anxious to taste the items available at this seafood restaurant because it has received countless favorable online recommendations.

Most guests raved over their scalloped potatoes, Cod Dejonghe, and delectable handmade pies.

The service and staff go above and beyond what one would expect from a high-end restaurant.

While in the area, visit Chesapeake Seafood House so you can become one of those who crave their food from now and then.

Address: 3045 E Clear Lake Ave, Springfield, IL 62702

3. Red Lobster (Sustainable Sourcing Practices)

Red Lobster is the name of an ultimate seafood restaurant widely recognized in the United States and other areas of the world.

It is a top seafood restaurant because they treat guests with love and pride.

When you dine at Red Lobster, you are certain to be delivered the freshest seafood on your table since they “seafood” differently.

For those who are concerned about consuming marine animals due to overharvesting in the sea, there is no need to stress because Red Lobster is one of the major purchasers of seafood in the country; it is right to guarantee that the company preserves and cares for the ocean and marine life as well.

All seafood, notably the daily crabs, is obtained in the wild.

The shrimp supplied are farm-raised and verified by Global Seafood Assurances, which helps to secure ethical sourcing and a plentiful supply for future generations.

Red Lobster’s most popular items are lobster, crabs, shrimp, rainbow trout, and salmon.

Address: 2696 S. Dirksen Pwky Springfield, IL 62703

4. Anchors Away (Iconic Fried Oysters)

Whether going to the First Presbyterian Church or just passing by, be sure to stop by Anchor’s Away, a popular seafood restaurant.

Anchor’s Away is famous among residents and visitors because of its Cajun and Creole cuisine.

You will undoubtedly change your food choices when you try the finest meals offered here, such as crab legs, gumbo, and their iconic fried oysters.

Grits are something that few people love eating, but that changes when you try them at this seafood restaurant.

Another good choice at Anchor’s Away is a fancy yet inexpensive top-quality burger hand-patted in-house and the size of a beast.

Guests have frequently praised Anchor’s Away’s service, which is polite and accommodating.

When you try Anchor’s Away, you will uncover a genuine jewel in the city.

Address: 518 E Capitol Ave, Springfield, IL 62701-1814

5. Carter’s Fish Market (Long Queues for Fried Fish)

Carter’s Fish Market has served the neighborhood and the public with high-quality food for 37 years.

This seafood restaurant is popular because, as the name implies, it also has a fish market.

Fresh and frozen fish, shrimp, and other seafood are available here.

Carter’s Fish Market is a preferred place to buy fish in Springfield.

Several returning customers claim there is little to see or anticipate in this restaurant, but it offers the finest seafood.

It is also one of the reasons it has the longest daily queues.

Carter’s Fish Market is prominent for its fried fish, which includes Catfish strips, scored Buffalo, Shrimp and Copi, and Pollock.

Each fish dish is hand-breaded and seasoned to perfection.

When you leave Carter’s Fish Market, you will certainly be left wanting more.

Address: 1900 S Grand Ave E, Springfield, IL 62703-2735

6. VELE (Famous Sunday Brunch)

VELE is famous for being clean, simple, fresh, one-of-a-kind, and extremely flavorful.

Be clear because, while you want to enjoy the finest dishes offered in this seafood restaurant, you also want to convey how much you appreciate the people who work here.

That is through understanding how to say their name, “Vay-Lay.”

The Chef at VELE is recognized for creating dishes from a blank canvas of possibilities inspired by his Italian upbringing and traditional French training.

VELE specializes in Coastal Italian, pasta, steaks, and seafood.

The restaurant’s owners want their visitors to fully enjoy the experience and flavors of all their dishes, which is why mini samplers are available on the menu.

Every dish on the menu is promised to be clean, fresh, and perfectly prepared.

A fantastic wine list complements their fresh seafood dishes well.

Several occasions and events are frequently hosted at VELE, including their famous Sunday brunch.

Address: 3241 West Iles Avenue Springfield IL 62704

Also see our article on Chinese Restaurants in Illinois.

Seafood Restaurants in Rockford, Illinois

1. Thunder Bay Grille (Relaxing Atmosphere)

Thunder Bay Grille has long been a favorite of many customers due to the restaurant’s simplicity while serving the highest quality food.

This seafood restaurant is excellent for gatherings, unwinding, socializing, or enjoying the best casual dining.

Thunder Bay Grille is a perfect example of a seafood restaurant serving meat dishes while bringing out the best in both cuisines.

When you visit this restaurant, you will be exposed to top-notch steaks, Cajun specialties, and the freshest seafood in town.

Fall in love with Thunder Bay Grille’s atmosphere, which has rustic décor, calm and relaxing music, and a pleasant and lovely fireplace.

The perfect accompaniment to the dishes served at Thunder Bay Grill is hand-crafted cocktails, local beers, and a wide selection of the best wines.

Address: 7652 Potawatomi Trail, Rockford, IL 61107

2. Storming Crab (Available for Parties)

Cajun food is popular because it is straightforward, has excellent flavors, comes in various styles, and is downright messy, but in a good way.

Getting sloppy when eating seafood is the epitome of the greatest food in town, and Storming Crab will provide your finest seafood orders in this manner.

When you dine at Storming Crab, you will be provided a bib and gloves since everything is expected to get messy.

Crab legs, potatoes, lobster claws, prawns, and oysters are just a few of the delicious seafood dishes you and your family will love.

Storming Crab offers a diverse menu, with top favorites including Fried Okra for an appetizer, Crab legs, and claws, and house Cajun with a mild spice.

Because of consistency and quality, service and food portions are among the most often appreciated in online reviews.

Storming Crab is also available for parties, celebrations, and large groups.

Address: 6779 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108

3. J&J Fish and Chicken (Affordable Comfort Food)

J&J Fish and Chicken has recently gained popularity due to its excellent cuisine, service, and reasonable prices.

Many people have suggested that new customers should sample their outstanding fish and chips.

The dish may be simple, but it packs a powerful punch; that’s how great it is.

Catfish is also a popular dish in this seafood restaurant; it’s uncommon to find catfish on the menu in other places, but it’s a favorite here.

J&J Fish and Chicken is regarded for simple and affordable comfort food, making it one of the top seafood restaurants not just in Rockford.

They are also prominent in the state, having already opened several branches.

The best appetizers are their great chicken wings and fried fish strips.

Both are available if you like sandwiches or burgers, such as their Philadelphia Cheesesteak.

Because J&J Fish and Chicken has expanded, they are also available to cater for your parties, so there is no need to stand in line and order a huge amount because they will accommodate your guests at your events.

Address: 217 7th St, Rockford, IL 61104

Also see our article on Bbqs in Illinois.

Seafood Restaurants in Peoria, Illinois

1. The Fish House (Frequently Packed)

The Fish House opened its doors in 1976 and has been recognized for its freshest fish dishes ever since.

For 45 years, the Fish House has concentrated on seafood dishes worldwide and an eclectic blend of chicken, pasta, and steak that caters to various palates.

It is a restaurant and a fish market where you can shop and get high-quality seafood since they offer the greatest seafood items.

Some of the most popular and requested dishes are Grouper, Sea Bass, Scallops, pastries, and even a selection of the greatest wines.

The Fish House is frequently packed; thus, making a reservation before visiting the restaurant is advisable.

Several returning customers have praised The Fish House’s excellent quality service, where the staff and servers are kind and knowledgeable about the menu.

Address: 4919 N University St, Peoria, IL 61614-4712

2. Jonah’s Seafood House (Menu Varies Twice Daily)

Jonah’s seafood restaurant has been famous for its constancy in meeting quality standards for many years.

Many point out that this seafood restaurant offers the freshest seafood, perfectly cooked dishes, and great service.

Jonah’s seafood house menu varies twice daily since the catch changes regularly, and the management wants to satisfy guests.

The menu features top steak, poultry, shrimp, and seafood cuts.

Toppings and sauces are unique to Jonah’s seafood house, giving them the character many customers want.

This seafood restaurant’s signature dishes include grouper, gumbo, fried oysters, craw legs and claws, lobster tail, and much more.

Make space for delicious desserts since baked cakes and pies are also available to enjoy, and every dessert is completely hand-made.

Address: 2601 N Main St, East Peoria, IL 61611-1747

3. Holy Crab (Instagram-Worthy Decor)

Get your tastebuds ready to experience the flavors of Lousianna in Peoria, Illinois.

The primary reason for it is Holy Crabs’ exquisite range of seafood dishes combined with the flavors of Louisiana.

Cajun Seafood Boil sampler is the most popular dish at Holy Crabs.

Don’t be deceived by the word ” sampler” because the portion of large crab legs, mussels, shrimp, lobster tail, and sausage will overwhelm you.

People consistently appreciate Holy Crab due to its simplicity yet excellent blending of Cajun spices.

You will also like the décor of this seafood restaurant since it’s Instagram-worthy.

The net, floaters, wooden cottages, seats, and plastic animal creatures give the impression that you live beneath the sea.

Holy Crabs has private areas and rooms available if you wish to dine here for meetings or an intimate gathering.

Because of their menu’s versatility and the restaurant’s appealing design, you may also organize small groups here.

Address: 205 River Rd, East Peoria, IL 61611-2009

Also see our article on Desserts in Illinois.

Seafood Restaurants in Edwardsville, Illinois

1. Gulf Shores Restaurant and Grill (Comfort Food with Cajun Flair)

Gulf Shores is the place to be if you’re looking for a restaurant that serves comfort food, homecooked meals with passion and flavors, and has a Cajun flair.

Many returning customers have praised this seafood restaurant’s consistent flavors and cooking.

There are outstanding restaurants in several cities, but consistency is needed.

The baked grouper, dirty rice with okra, shrimp and crab cake combination, and fried catfish are some of the best and most highly recommended meals to try here.

Its service is homey since the restaurant is designed to make customers feel at ease while eating heartfelt home-cooked dishes.

Seafood is always fresh and perfectly cooked.

Meats such as steak, chicken, and pork are also available.

Gulf Shores Restaurant and Grill is the best option for experiencing New Orleans Cajun food in Edwardsville, Illinois.

Address: 215 Harvard Dr, Edwardsville, IL 62025

2. Mousalli’s Prime (Authentic Gourmet Home)

In Mousalli’s Prime, guests can enjoy authentic gourmet home-cooked dishes in a traditional and ordinary setting.

When dining here, you can expect to be offered high-quality food.

Some people believe this restaurant is pricey because of how fancy it seems; however, prices here are fair and reasonable due to the food quality and service.

Mousalli’s Prime began as a steakhouse, where guests were immediately drawn in by the high-quality tastes in their dishes, which were always perfectly prepared.

Even so, various seafood and oyster dishes were introduced to complement their steak menu.

Mousalli’s Prime is dedicated to offering only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, and this restaurant also buys local products to ensure sustainability.

This restaurant’s best dishes include NY prime steaks, lobster tail, and grilled salmon with black rice.

Address: 7415 Il 143, Edwardsville, IL 62025-4551

3. Captain D’s (Memorable Dining Experience)

Captain D’s goal is to make an average day feel extraordinary.

This restaurant has been in the business for 50 years and has established itself as one of the city’s most consistent seafood restaurants regarding food quality and service.

The main mission of Captain D’s is to make any meal memorable, and many returning customers have proven successful.

Every seafood dish is fresh and prepared to perfection with delicious flavors.

Over the 50 years of operation, around 500 restaurants have been established throughout the country, which is why many people have experienced what Captain D’s has to offer, which is the genuine flavor of a great moment.

Their finest dish is a standard fish and chips, which may sound simple but will allow you to uncover the full story of Captain D’s.

Address: 1960 Troy Rd, Edwardsville, IL 62025-2538

Also see our article on Cooking Classes in Illinois.

Seafood Restaurants in Rosemont, Illinois

1. Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest (Live Entertainment)

This stunning and real masterpiece seafood restaurant is in the new Pearl Entertainment District, west of I-294.

Truluck’s Ocean Finest is just a few blocks from O’Hare Airport and the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

This exquisite seafood restaurant becomes well for delivering only the freshest seafood, providing live entertainment, and making a lasting impression on every visitor that spends dinner with them.

Truluck’s Ocean Finest began operations in 1992, and since then, people have appreciated their commitment to offering only fresh ingredients, resulting in the finest dishes presented every night.

Oysters with parmesan yeast rolls, parmesan mashed potatoes, Hawaiian Ahi Tuna, and salmon with asparagus are among the best meals served here.

The restaurant’s interior design is exquisite, tranquil, and serene.

It is ideal for a date night, family dinner, or business gathering.

Address: 9860 Berwyn Ave. The Pearl District, Rosemont, IL 60018

2. McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood and Steak (Shellfish from Oceans)

If you are in the Rosemont area and suddenly crave the best seafood, consider visiting this paradise.

McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood and Steak is direct across the street from the Intercontinental Hotel and a short distance from the Rosemont Theater.

It will undoubtedly be a memorable dining experience where only the best and most fresh seafood will be served.

This seafood and steakhouse strive to exceed each guest’s expectations.

Everything will be above average, from their top seafood and shellfish to their aged steaks and garden salad.

Many of the seafood items they have come from the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Their team in Hawaii engages in seafood auctions, which indicates that their shellfish has not been frozen for a single day.

Pan-seared Lake Superior whitefish, lobster risotto, Maine Lobster Bisque, pan-seared Chilean Sea bass, and New England Clam Chowder are excellent dishes to sample at this restaurant.

Address: 5320 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018-5400

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Coffee Shops, Ice Cream Shops, and Happy Hours in Illinois.

Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on the Grandest Seafood Restaurants in California and Texas.