6 of the Best Fresh Seafood Markets in Chicago Alicia Likenon February 4, 2022 at 6:14 pm

From escargot and oysters to monkfish and mackerel. Some of the world’s best fresh seafood markets in Chicago are located right in your neighborhood! And many of them are family-owned, which means you’ll get amazing service and generational expertise. Take a peek at the top places to get the best seafood hookup in our favorite city. And while you’re at it, check out our Ultimate Sushi Guide if you’re not in the cooking mood!

131 N Clinton St, Chicago, IL 60661

We consider Chicago French Market the best fresh seafood market in Chicago for so many reasons! Nominated the best public market 2022, Chicago French Market continues to bring us top-quality seafood, poultry, and produces, alongside their brilliant selection of food vendors that never fail to impress! So, while you’re there picking through City Fresh Market’s selection, don’t forget that iconic lobster roll!

Image Credit: Yelp

4423 N Elston Ave. Chicago, IL 60630

If you’re looking for the crème de la crème of fish in Chicago, you must check out this location. Owner Bill Dugan serves up live lobsters from an on-premise saltwater tank, extra large wild patagonia red shrimp, fresh oysters, escargot and so much more. If you’re really into seafood, consider signing up for their Afishianado Club. For a $50 fee, you get 10% off all products for a whole year! 

2110 W Division St. Chicago, IL 60622

Wixter started as a neighborhood market dedicated to educating customers about the benefits of fully traceable and truly sustainable seafood. Their business has blossomed into the premier spot for the freshest eats in Chicago. From capture to consumption, every product is meticulously vetted by their experienced procurement team to meet strict requirements. Check out their selection of mahi-mahi, small squids in ink, cockle clams, and more. 

Image Credit: Dirk’s Fish

2070 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL 60614

Since opening their doors in 2003, Dirk and Terry Fucik have dished out fresh, sustainable fish to their neighbors. The Fucik’s guarantee every purchase which has resulted in many happy customers over the years. Fan favorites include red snapper, snow crab, and their shucked East Coast oysters. Many of the fish they carry are only available fresh in season so be sure to call ahead and see what’s in stock. 

2340 W Belmont Ave. Chicago, IL 60618

Combining elements of a speciality retailer and traditional grocery store, Wild Fork offers a different kind of shopping experience. They specialize in meat and poultry but you can also find rare and delicious items like escarot, skin-on swordfish steaks, and monkfish filets. Go shopping online or check out their West Loop and Roscoe Village locations. 

5635 W. Montrose Ave.

Chicago, IL  60634

Since 1946, this family business has been serving up award-winning fresh, smoked, and fried fish to the good folks of Chicago. Pro-tip: don’t sleep on their smoking service. For a whole fish at $1.95 per pound or fillets at $2.95 per pound, you can score perfectly smoked fish without the hassle of, you know, owning an expensive smoker. Take home catfish, salmon candy, and Austrailian lobter for the ultimate seafood feast!

Featured Image Credit: Dirk’s Fish

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