Photo via Tortoise Supper Club
It is almost officially summer in Chicago! We are so excited, but in the humid heat and sunshine, we are going to need some bright and refreshing bites. That’s where the treasures of the sea come in! Here are our favorite restaurants with nice, chilled seafood to keep you and your palate awake through the sunny season…
Tortoise Supper Club {5411, 350 North State Street, Chicago; 312.755.1700}
The concept behind this supper club is style, sophistication, and hospitality. Atmosphere-wise: white-tablecloths, red-painted walls, and red leather banquettes. Take a seat at the bar for happy hour weekdays 4 – 6 PM for $1 oysters and $1 cocktail shrimp, not to mention friendly and approachable service. If you can’t make it during the week, Tortoise also has live jazz Fridays and Saturdays.
Photo via Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Brown Bag Seafood Co. {Multiple locations}
Brown Bag Seafood Co. is quality seafood made casual, affordable, and even to-go, unlike any other place in Chicago. With four different locations in the city, this counter-style service is easy and approachable at their locations downtown and on the North side. Whether its shrimp, salmon, or a lobster roll, Brown Bag focuses on sustainable seafood. This is a place for indulgence no matter the occasion…even if is just having fresh fish in a beautiful city during summer.
Photo via Portsmith
Portsmith {660 North State Street, Chicago; 312.202.6050}
A New-Hampshire native, Chef Nate Henssler of Portsmith knows good seafood. As the restaurant of the dana Hotel & Spa, this is a bright bite of luxury and simplicity, letting the flavor of the fresh wild-caught fish do most of the talking. Try the raw Littleneck Clams with citrus mignonette or the Tuna Tartare with umami shrub as a mid-day cold appetizer to keep you going until the work day is done.
Sushi Dokku {823 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.455.8238}
Sushi is delicious all-year round, but the nigiri, sashimi, and saucy maki rolls of Sushi Dokku will satiate your hunger at a new level for the summertime. Plus, underneath Sushi Dokku is Booze Box, a cozy spot for Japanese small plates and cold draft sake.
Photo via Fish Bar
Fish Bar {2956 North Sheffield Avenue, Chicago; 773.687.8177}
Fish Bar is a special spot, with fishermen painted on the walls and canoes hanging upside down from the ceiling, letting guests feel like they are on a picnic bench near the shore. The place feels airy and open inside, with personable service and draft beer served in mason jars. Plus, its all about fish: fish sandwiches, fish tacos, fish soup, fish in any preparation. If you are in Lakeview, do not pass up Fish Bar, and if you’re not in the area, it is worth the journey…
Becky Wills | Contributor
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