The 16 Best Clam Chowder in Chicago

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
- 1. Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
- 2. Shaw's Crab House
- 3. Goose Island Shrimp House
- 4. Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House
- 5. Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp
- 6. Catch 35
- 7. Half Shell
- 8. RPM Seafood
- 9. Luke's Lobster City Hall
- 10. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 11. McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks
- 12. Chicago Oyster House
- 13. 3rd Coast Fish Bar (a DMK restaurant)
- 14. Brown Bag Seafood Co.
- 15. King Crab House Chicago
- 16. Madison Crab House

- 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
Information and Reviews
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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
- 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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
- 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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
- 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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
- 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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
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.

- 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.
Information and Reviews
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

- 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
Information and Reviews
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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
- 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.

- 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)
Information and Reviews
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

- 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.
Information and Reviews
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

- 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
Information and Reviews
- 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.

- 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
Information and Reviews
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