Juniper Spirits & Oysters
“He was a bold man that first ate an oyster.”—Jonathan Swift
Oysters are a decadent, but acquired taste—not for the diner faint of heart! However, for those looking for a culinary adventure, and some of the most simply delicious bites in Chicago, there is nothing better than an oyster. If you haven’t taken the plunge and given oysters a try before, we recommend giving them a go. You might just find your perfect meal starter or cocktail partner! For those who already love them, there are always new places and variations to enjoy.
Whether you’re an expert or a newbie, these are some of the city’s best spots to shoot back an oyster…
- Portsmith {660 North State Street, Chicago; 312.202.6050}: Portsmith focuses on seafood, from décor to their menu, and Happy Hour is no exception. Monday-Friday from 4-6pm, they have $1.50 oysters plus $5 wine and other deals! If you prefer your oysters cooked, their Fried Oysters (with Squid Ink Panko and Oyster Basil Aïoli) and Oysters Rockefeller (with Creamed Basil and Lemon Foie Gras) are both only $4 every night.
- BLVD {817 West Lake Street, Chicago; 312.526.3116}: Dollar oysters. Every Tuesday. What more can we say? The West Loop spot is perfect for date night or a girl’s happy hour, so get cozy at the bar or bask under the chandeliers and have a fun evening that won’t break the bank!
- Kamehachi {various locations}: You know that seafood from Chicago’s original sushi house is going to be the best of the best! You can get their seasonal oyster options, which change regularly, by the half dozen or dozen, so bring a group! Then complete your meal with one of their many unique sushi rolls.
- Tortoise Supper Club {350 North State Street, Chicago; 312.755.1700}: Though this supper club is known for steaks and heartier options, their oysters on the half shell are a great way to start the meal. You can also get Baked Oysters Rockefeller appetizer, which is a fun twist on the classic dish!
- Hubbard Inn {110 West Hubbard St, Chicago; 312.222.1331}: They mean business at Hubbard Inn when they say that Happy Hour includes a raw bar. From oysters to shrimp and beyond, there are tons of options starting at only $2 that all will pair perfectly with their $5 martinis and Manhattans.
- Juniper Spirits & Oysters {Claridge House Hotel, 1244 North Dearborn Parkway, Chicago; 312.416.5811}: Half Shell Happy Hour means half-priced oysters every Monday-Friday 4-7pm at the Claridge House Hotel bar and restaurant! Plus, if you live in the neighborhood, you can also join for Sunday Funday! Their Neighbor Night returns every Sunday for oysters and a glass of wine for only $12.
- Truluck’s {41 East Chestnut Street, Chicago; 312.982.0050}: Truluck’s locations across the country pride themselves on providing only the best in steak and seafood, and that includes their featured oysters on the half-shell, which come with “atomic horseradish” that will give each bite a truly unique taste. You can also get Oysters Rockefeller and Featured Oysters on their Social Hour menu for great deals!
Hampton Social
By Kaleigh Glaza | Online Editor
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