The 16 Best Clam Chowder in Chicago

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

For seafood lovers in Chicago on the hunt for the perfect bowl of clam chowder, look no further. This iconic creamy dish has gained popularity in the Windy City, with many restaurants offering their own unique take on it. Whether you prefer a classic New England-style chowder or a more innovative twist, there is no shortage of options to choose from.

Before deciding where to satisfy your chowder cravings, take a look at the list below highlighting the 16 Best Clam Chowder in Chicago. Compare the services, flavors, and locations to find the perfect spot to indulge in this comforting and delicious seafood soup.

  • Location
  • Price
  • Reviews
  • Ingredients
  • Additional seafood options
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

+1 312-379-5637

  • Monday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Thursday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM

1. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

4.7/5 (More than 4160 reviews)
60 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab is a top-notch seafood restaurant in Chicago that offers a wide range of services and features for its customers. From Kerbside pickup to Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options, this restaurant caters to various dining preferences.

Known for its Great cocktails, Great coffee, and Great dessert selections, Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab creates a memorable dining experience that has been well received by its patrons.

Recent customer reviews highlight the exceptional service and quality of the food. Some key points from the reviews include:

  • Stunning Chicago hospitality with flawless steak and fantastic seafood options.
  • Cozy dining atmosphere with impeccable service and worth-every-penny fine dining experience.
  • Amazing food cooked to perfection with engaging wait staff and incredible desserts.

With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 and over 4000 reviews, Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a premium dining experience in the heart of Chicago.

Shaw's Crab House

+1 312-527-2722

  • Monday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 11:30 AM–9 PM

2. Shaw's Crab House

4.6/5 (More than 4792 reviews)
21 E Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Crab house

Information and Reviews

Shaw's Crab House is a renowned Crab house in Chicago, offering a variety of services and features to ensure a delightful dining experience. Customers can enjoy No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert, Shaw's Crab House is a popular choice for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.

  • Great staff, amazing food, and stunning ambiance make it perfect for any special occasion.
  • Consistent excellence in food quality, preparation, and service keeps customers coming back.
  • Classic Chicago joint with a fun atmosphere, ideal for enjoying oysters and fresh seafood.
Goose Island Shrimp House

+1 312-642-3640

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–8 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–8 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–8 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–8 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

3. Goose Island Shrimp House

4.6/5 (More than 2112 reviews)
1011 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60642, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Goose Island Shrimp House is a renowned seafood restaurant in Chicago that offers a range of service options including takeaway. Known for its fast service, this cozy spot is popular for lunch and dinner. Customers rave about the quality shrimp and the special goose island sauce.

  • Customers praise the fresh and delicious shrimp served at Goose Island Shrimp House.
  • The fast service and cozy atmosphere make it a favorite spot for many.
  • Patrons appreciate the reasonable prices and the quality of the food.
Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House

+1 312-640-0999

  • Monday: 3 PM–12 AM
  • Tuesday: 3 PM–12 AM
  • Wednesday: 3 PM–12 AM
  • Thursday: 3 PM–12 AM
  • Friday: 3 PM–12 AM
  • Saturday: 3 PM–12 AM
  • Sunday: 3–11 PM

4. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House

4.6/5 (More than 1787 reviews)
1024 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House is a renowned seafood restaurant located in Chicago offering a wide range of services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The establishment is known for its great coffee and desserts, making it a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Additionally, it provides accessibility features like wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and a toilet.

With a 4.6-star rating based on 1787 customer reviews, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House has received high praise from its patrons. Some key points from the reviews include:

  • Unique and interesting fish presentation
  • Delicious and fresh seafood options
  • Excellent service with knowledgeable staff
  • Great selection of cocktails and desserts

If you are looking for a memorable dining experience in Chicago, Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House is a top choice that promises exceptional food, service, and ambiance.

Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp

+1 312-225-2113

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp

4.3/5 (More than 6037 reviews)
2120 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60616, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp is a well-established seafood restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, and takeaway. Customers can enjoy fast service and popular dishes for lunch or dinner. The restaurant is known for its casual, historic, and trendy atmosphere, making it a popular spot among different crowds, including groups, tourists, and university students.

Customer reviews:

  • A customer describes the food as hearty and delicious, highlighting the timely service and well-prepared dishes.
  • Another customer praises the meal as excellent and affordable, recommending the fried catfish and shrimp while enjoying the outdoor seating area.
  • One patron shares their experience of always having a great meal at Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp, emphasizing the friendly staff and made-to-order food.
  • Lastly, a customer mentions the restaurant as a legendary spot with mediocre shrimp but exceptional corn hush puppies and a welcoming environment.
Catch 35

+1 312-346-3500

  • Monday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Thursday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM–9:30 PM
  • Saturday: 4–9:30 PM
  • Sunday: 4–9 PM

6. Catch 35

4.5/5 (More than 1667 reviews)
35 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Catch 35 is a renowned seafood restaurant located in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. From outdoor seating to delivery, they cater to all preferences. Their highlights include fast service and great coffee, creating a memorable dining experience for every visitor. Catch 35 is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it an ideal spot for any time of day.

  • The menu choices were good, and the food was high quality and tasteful, although the initial greeting was unwelcoming.
  • Great space, wonderful service, and a downtown location create a perfect atmosphere.
  • Celebratory events thrive in the classy ambiance, but portions were small according to some diners.

Customer reviews showcase a mix of positive and constructive feedback, with patrons appreciating the ambiance and a variety of dishes available. Some diners noted small portion sizes and room for improvement in certain areas. Despite the mixed reviews, Catch 35 continues to be a popular choice for seafood enthusiasts in Chicago.

Half Shell

+1 773-549-1773

  • Monday: 4–10 PM
  • Tuesday: 4–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 4–10 PM
  • Thursday: 4–10 PM
  • Friday: 4–10:30 PM
  • Saturday: 12–10:30 PM
  • Sunday: 12–10 PM

7. Half Shell

4.6/5 (More than 949 reviews)
676 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Half Shell is a beloved seafood restaurant located in Chicago. This cozy spot offers a range of services, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the flavorful oysters, delicious crabs, and fried shrimp. The fireplace adds a special touch to the atmosphere, making it a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

  • Absolutely loved the Half Shell! Fresh oysters, flavorful crabs, and great service. The independent, family-owned charm adds to the experience.
  • Provided a satisfying dining experience. Efficient service, enjoyable drinks, and swift food delivery at reasonable prices.
  • The rich and fresh seafood dishes were mouth-watering. The fried shrimp and garlic butter crab legs were highlights of the meal.
  • Best neighborhood seafood joint with a casual and comfortable atmosphere. The seafood selection, including crabs, clam chowder, and tuna, left a lasting impression.
RPM Seafood

+1 312-900-9035

  • Monday: 4–9:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 4–9:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 4–9:30 PM
  • Thursday: 12–9:30 PM
  • Friday: 12–10 PM
  • Saturday: 12–10 PM
  • Sunday: 12–9:30 PM

8. RPM Seafood

4.5/5 (More than 1330 reviews)
317 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

RPM Seafood offers a unique dining experience in Chicago with its focus on fresh and delicious seafood. Customers can enjoy a variety of options, including Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The restaurant is popular for its Lunch and Dinner options, making it a great spot for Solo dining as well. With a Great dessert selection, patrons can end their meals on a sweet note. The atmosphere is described as Romantic, Trendy, and Upmarket, perfect for all occasions.

  • Great service and delicious food with generous portions.
  • Beautiful ambiance with scenic views of the river.
  • Excellent seafood tower and halibut entree.
  • Highly recommended for a special dining experience.
Luke's Lobster City Hall

+1 312-982-2977

  • Monday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–7 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–8 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–7 PM

9. Luke's Lobster City Hall

4.5/5 (More than 987 reviews)
134 N La Salle St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Luke's Lobster City Hall is a popular seafood restaurant located in Chicago, offering a wide range of service options such as outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service and is a favorite spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Customers can enjoy a variety of offerings including alcohol, beer, comfort food, organic dishes, quick bites, vegetarian options, and wine. The atmosphere at Luke's Lobster City Hall is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, making it a welcoming space for everyone.

Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

  • Perfect service and amazing food, highly recommend the clam chowder and samplers.
  • Best seafood ever tried, great vibe, smell, and customer service.
  • Delicious and perfect seafood that is worth the price, a craved treat.
  • Super friendly staff and delicious lobster rolls that make customers come back.
Brown Bag Seafood Co.

+1 312-496-3999

  • Monday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–8:30 PM

10. Brown Bag Seafood Co.

4.4/5 (More than 780 reviews)
340 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Brown Bag Seafood Co. is a popular seafood restaurant located in Chicago. Known for its fast service and healthy options, this spot is a go-to for many looking for a quick and delicious meal. With offerings like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and shrimp and grits, customers have raved about the quality of the food and the friendly atmosphere.

Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:

  • Happy hour specials are a hit - perfect for trying out a variety of dishes
  • Fun decor and simplified purchasing process add to the overall experience
  • Great, quick, and easy food with engaging and helpful staff
  • Good portion sizes, fresh seafood, and a nice casual vibe make it an excellent hangout spot
McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks

+1 312-923-7226

  • Monday: 3:30–9 PM
  • Tuesday: 3:30–9 PM
  • Wednesday: 3:30–9 PM
  • Thursday: 3:30–9 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 11:30 AM–9 PM

11. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks

4.2/5 (More than 1656 reviews)
1 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Mccormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. The establishment offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. It is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a versatile choice for any time of day.

The restaurant stands out for its great coffee and great dessert options, providing a delightful dining experience. Customers have praised the outstanding food and service offered at McCormick & Schmick's, with many highlighting the delicious seafood dishes as a standout feature.

  • Food and service was outstanding, with the seafood being a highlight of the night.
  • Happy hour food offers great value with generous portion sizes.
  • Staff were extremely pleasant, providing attentive service throughout the meal.
  • The ambiance is comfortable and classic, setting the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.
Chicago Oyster House

+1 312-225-8833

  • Monday: 5–9 PM
  • Tuesday: 5–9 PM
  • Wednesday: 5–9 PM
  • Thursday: 5–9 PM
  • Friday: 5–10 PM
  • Saturday: 5–10 PM
  • Sunday: 5–9 PM

12. Chicago Oyster House

4.3/5 (More than 648 reviews)
1933 S Indiana Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Chicago Oyster House is a renowned seafood restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of services like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service, fireplace, and great dessert. It is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, welcoming a diverse crowd.

  • Grilled oysters and truffle fries are delicious
  • Wonderful service with a lovely atmosphere
  • Exemplary food and service unmatched
  • Oysters are on point with delicious spring rolls and sea bass

With a rating of 4.3 stars, customers rave about the fantastic oysters, grilled and fresh, along with the impeccable service and exquisite food. The martini selection is also highlighted as fun and tasty, making every visit memorable. It's a must-visit spot in the South Loop for a delightful dining experience.

3rd Coast Fish Bar (a DMK restaurant)

+1 773-687-8026

  • Monday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
  • Sunday: 11:30 AM–9 PM

13. 3rd Coast Fish Bar (a DMK restaurant)

4.2/5 (More than 509 reviews)
2956 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

3rd Coast Fish Bar (a DMK restaurant) is a popular seafood restaurant in Chicago that offers a range of services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service and is a favorite spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

  • A culinary adventure guided by friendly and knowledgeable staff
  • Delicious seafood options like white fish burger, tater tots, and fried shrimp
  • Impeccably fresh ingredients and perfectly cooked dishes
  • Passionate and helpful servers
Brown Bag Seafood Co.

+1 312-846-6774

  • Monday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Thursday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Friday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Saturday: 11 AM–8:30 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–8:30 PM

14. Brown Bag Seafood Co.

4.3/5 (More than 290 reviews)
414 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Brown Bag Seafood Co. is a popular seafood restaurant located in Chicago. The restaurant offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers appreciate the fast service and find it great for both lunch and dinner options. The atmosphere is described as casual and trendy, making it suitable for families, tourists, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

  • Reasonably priced and pleasant dining experience
  • Delicious seafood dishes with flavorful sauces
  • Well-prepared food with generous portions
  • Great customer service and clean environment
King Crab House Chicago

+1 312-280-8990

  • Monday: 3–10:45 PM
  • Tuesday: 3–10:45 PM
  • Wednesday: 3–10:45 PM
  • Thursday: 3–10:45 PM
  • Friday: 3–10:45 PM
  • Saturday: 12–10:45 PM
  • Sunday: 12–9:45 PM

15. King Crab House Chicago

4.1/5 (More than 845 reviews)
1816 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

King Crab House Chicago is a renowned seafood restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With options like Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, this restaurant caters to various dining preferences. Customers have praised the fast service and the great dessert options offered here.

  • Customers appreciate the reasonable prices and fresh, delicious food.
  • The atmosphere is described as laid back and enjoyable.
  • Some noted the need for improvement in the level of service provided.

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a flavorful seafood meal, King Crab House Chicago is a fantastic choice in the Chicago area.

Madison Crab House

+1 312-600-9996

  • Monday: 12:30–9 PM
  • Tuesday: 12:30–9 PM
  • Wednesday: 12:30–9 PM
  • Thursday: 12:30–9 PM
  • Friday: 12:30–10 PM
  • Saturday: 12:30–10 PM
  • Sunday: 1–8 PM

16. Madison Crab House

4.2/5 (More than 465 reviews)
1045 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
Seafood restaurant

Information and Reviews

Madison Crab House is a beloved seafood restaurant located in Chicago. Offering a range of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, this restaurant is a go-to spot for those craving fresh seafood. Known for its fast service, Madison Crab House is popular for both lunch and dinner. Customers appreciate the casual and cosy atmosphere, making it a great place for groups and tourists alike.

With a rating of 4.2 stars, Madison Crab House has received glowing reviews from its patrons. Here are some key points from customer feedback:

  • We ordered snow crab combos and a side of shrimp. The flavor is definitely there and the crab was sweet and extremely juicy. The wait staff was attentive and the atmosphere was comfortable.
  • The white fish poboy, fries, and coleslaw were stellar and tasty. A great value for the quality of food.
  • Quick pit stop for Mad Fries. Crispy, well-seasoned, and tasty with great service.
  • Consistently great food and flavors, with the Mad sauce being a standout. Bathrooms could use improvement but worth getting food to go.

Indulge in delectable seafood dishes at Madison Crab House for a memorable dining experience in Chicago!

Map of Clam Chowder in Chicago

For all the chowder lovers in Chicago, look no further than this comprehensive map showcasing all the best spots in the city to indulge in a warm bowl of delicious clam chowder. From seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, this map will guide you to your next favorite chowder destination in the Windy City.

Related Services

Go up