Chicago's Best Mexican Seafood Restaurants Spots [2025 Guide]

Having sampled dishes from twelve outstanding establishments across the city, I've compiled a list that highlights the most delectable seafood offerings infused with vibrant Mexican flavors.

From classic ceviches to innovative tacos, each restaurant boasts its unique twist on traditional recipes.

Whether you're craving a casual dining experience or a more upscale night out, there’s something here for every seafood lover.

Join me on this culinary journey as we explore the hidden gems and beloved favorites that make Chicago a haven for those who appreciate the rich and diverse world of Mexican seafood.

Mariscos La Palma

Highlights
Delicious seafood
Friendly and helpful staff
Great customer service
Relaxed dining atmosphere
Highly recommended

Mariscos La Palma quickly swam to the top of my list during my culinary voyage through Chicago's vibrant seafood scene. Upon entering, I was greeted by an atmosphere that felt both inviting and relaxed, making it the perfect sanctuary for enjoying fresh ocean delights. The staff was not just friendly; they were genuinely passionate about the menu, guiding me through the tantalizing options.

I dove straight into their signature dishes, and let me tell you, the seafood was nothing short of delicious! Each bite burst with flavor, serving as a testament to their commitment to quality and freshness. It was evident from the first taste that the ingredients were top-notch, elevating familiar flavors into something extraordinary.

What truly set Mariscos La Palma apart was the impeccable customer service—the staff's attentiveness and willingness to chat about the different dishes created a memorable dining experience. I left feeling not only satisfied but eager to return and explore more of their incredible seafood offerings. With a highly recommended title in my personal notes, I can confidently say that Mariscos La Palma is a must-visit for seafood lovers in Chicago!

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El Tecolote Restaurant

Highlights
Best mariscos in La Villita
Generous portion sizes
Fresh seafood every time
Delicious micheladas
Highly recommended dishes

El Tecolote Restaurant is a hidden gem in La Villita that presents a colorful tapestry of flavors, especially for seafood lovers like myself. As soon as I stepped in, the inviting atmosphere whispered promises of an aquatic feast. The moment I dove into their mariscos, I knew I was in for a delightful ride.

The generous portion sizes truly caught my attention; I felt like a kid in a candy store as plates piled high with shrimp, fish, and clams graced my table. With such fresh seafood arriving each time, it’s no wonder this place is a local favorite. Each bite was a celebration of flavors, leaving me craving more.

I couldn't resist pairing my meal with one of their delicious micheladas, which added the perfect zest to the experience. While there are many dishes to choose from, I highly recommend trying their ceviche; it’s a dance of freshness and vibrant ingredients that speaks volumes about traditional coastal cuisine.

If you're in the area and looking for a taste of authentic coastal flavors, El Tecolote is your ticket to a seafood paradise. Make sure to bring your appetite and your sense of adventure!

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Mariscos La Playa

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Cozy atmosphere
Great service
Consistently great flavor
Family-friendly vibes

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and cozy atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. The decor gave off a beachy vibe which was fitting for a seafood restaurant. As I sat down, I couldn't help but notice how friendly and accommodating the staff were. They made sure to check in on me frequently and were always ready to answer any questions or offer recommendations.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the food! As an expert in seafood, I can confidently say that Mariscos La Playa did not disappoint. Each dish was bursting with fresh flavors and perfectly cooked seafood. Whether it was the ceviche or the shrimp cocktail, every dish had its own unique twist that made it stand out from other mexican seafood restaurants.

One thing I appreciate about Mariscos La Playa is their consistency in delivering great flavor. This place never fails to impress me with their dishes. It's no wonder why this spot is so popular with families - there's something for everyone on the menu.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a mexican seafood restaurant that offers fresh seafood, great service, and family-friendly vibes then look no further than Mariscos La Playa. Trust me when I say this - you won't be disappointed!

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Las Islitas Seafood & Mexican Restaurant

Highlights
Oysters on half shell
Fried red snapper
Great drink selection
Attentive staff

Firstly, let me start by saying that the oysters on half shell were out of this world! They were incredibly fresh and had a delightful briny flavor. I could have eaten a dozen more but I had to save room for the main course.

And oh my, the fried red snapper was amazing. The fish was cooked to perfection; crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It was served with a side of rice and beans which added a nice touch to the dish.

The drink selection at Las Islitas Seafood & Mexican Restaurant is also noteworthy. They have an impressive array of tequila-based cocktails that are sure to please any palate. I particularly enjoyed their margaritas which were perfectly balanced with just enough sweetness and tanginess.

Lastly, I must mention how attentive and friendly the staff at Las Islitas Seafood & Mexican Restaurant are. From the moment I walked in, they made me feel welcome and ensured that my dining experience was top-notch.

Overall, if you're looking for great mexican seafood in Chicago, look no further than Las Islitas Seafood & Mexican Restaurant. The oysters alone are worth the visit!

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La Palapa

Highlights
Best crab legs
Mexican twist
Free appetizers
Beachy decor

First, let's talk about the highlights of this restaurant. La Palapa has some of the best crab legs I've ever tasted. The meat was so juicy and tender, it practically melted in my mouth. And what sets this restaurant apart from others is their unique Mexican twist on seafood dishes. It was refreshing to see traditional Mexican flavors infused into seafood dishes like ceviche and shrimp tacos.

And let's not forget about the free appetizers. Who doesn't love free food? La Palapa offers complimentary chips and salsa as well as a tasty ceviche to start off your meal.

The decor at La Palapa is also worth mentioning. With its beachy vibes and colorful walls, you'll feel like you're dining in a tropical paradise instead of Chicago.

Overall, I had a fantastic experience at La Palapa. The food was delicious, the service was great, and the atmosphere was fun and lively. If you're looking for a unique twist on classic seafood dishes with a Mexican flair, then be sure to check out La Palapa!

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Alegrias Seafood Chicago

Highlights
Shareable seafood dinner
Unique seafood dishes
Great service
Reasonable pricing

First off, I was impressed with their shareable seafood dinner options. It's perfect for a group of friends or family who want to enjoy different dishes together. The menu had some unique seafood dishes that I’ve never seen before, such as their ceviche sampler which was simply divine.

The restaurant had a great vibe and the service was top-notch. Our waiter was knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations. We were even given complimentary chips and salsa which were delicious and addicting.

In terms of pricing, Alegrias Seafood Chicago is definitely reasonable for its quality of food and service provided. You won't break the bank here.

Overall, Alegrias Seafood Chicago is worth a visit if you’re looking for a great mexican seafood experience in Chicago. Don't forget to bring your appetite because there are many options to choose from!

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Baha Restaurant

Highlights
Live DJ and music
Phenomenal food
Strong drinks
Great for celebrations
Family-friendly atmosphere

First of all, the atmosphere was incredible! I loved the live DJ and music they had playing, it really added to the overall experience. The service was fantastic, with friendly staff who were more than willing to help us choose from their extensive menu.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh my goodness, it was phenomenal! We started with some shrimp ceviche and it did not disappoint. For our main course, we went with their famous seafood platter which included everything from lobster to crab to octopus. Each dish was cooked perfectly and seasoned just right. And don't even get me started on their sauces... they were a game changer!

To wash down all that deliciousness, we ordered some strong drinks which definitely hit the spot.

The best part? Baha Restaurant is great for celebrations as well as family-friendly outings so everyone can enjoy the fun atmosphere and amazing food.

Overall, I highly recommend Baha Restaurant for anyone looking for a memorable mexican seafood experience in Chicago.

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La Costa West Town

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Friendly staff
Delicious drinks
Authentic vibe

The moment I walked in, the authentic vibe of the restaurant hit me. The decor was tasteful and inviting, with colorful murals on the walls that transported me to Mexico. The staff greeted me with a warm smile and made me feel right at home.

I ordered the seafood platter, which included shrimp, octopus, scallops, and fish - all of which were incredibly fresh! Each bite was like a burst of flavor in my mouth. And let's not forget about their delicious drinks - they had an impressive selection of margaritas and tequilas that paired perfectly with my meal.

The staff was attentive and helpful throughout my dining experience. They made sure everything was to my liking and even offered suggestions on what to order next time I visit.

Overall, La Costa West Town is definitely one of the best mexican seafood restaurants in Chicago. From the fresh seafood to the friendly staff and authentic atmosphere - it's a must-visit for anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience.

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El Barco Mariscos

Highlights
Authentic flavor
Exceptional service
Well-maintained restaurant
Delicious seafood dishes

First and foremost, the authentic flavor of their dishes transported me to a seaside village in Mexico. The freshness of their seafood ingredients was apparent in every bite. I recommend trying their ceviche or the shrimp tacos, both had a perfect balance of flavors and spices.

What really stood out to me was the exceptional service. The staff was welcoming and attentive throughout my entire meal. They were knowledgeable about the menu and even offered suggestions for drinks that paired well with my food.

The restaurant itself was also impressive, it was well-maintained and had a clean atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends, whether you're looking for an intimate dinner or a lively night out.

Overall, El Barco Mariscos is definitely one of the best mexican seafood restaurants in Chicago. If you're looking for delicious seafood dishes with authentic flavor and exceptional service, this is the place to go!

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Mariscos El Barbas

Highlights
Delicious seafood
Live music
Great service

First and foremost, let me say that the seafood here is absolutely delicious! From the perfectly cooked shrimp to the mouth-watering ceviche, every dish is a treat for your taste buds. I would highly recommend trying their signature dish, the Mariscada - a seafood stew that was packed with flavor and had me wanting more.

But it's not just about the food at Mariscos El Barbas. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with live music adding to the ambiance. It's a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family while also being entertained by some fantastic musicians.

And let's talk about the service - top notch! The staff were incredibly attentive and friendly, making sure we always had everything we needed. They even went above and beyond by giving us recommendations on what to try from the menu.

Overall, I had an amazing experience at Mariscos El Barbas. The combination of delicious seafood, live music, and great service made it one of my favorite mexican seafood restaurants in Chicago. If you're looking for a fun night out with some amazing food, this is definitely the place to go!

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La Antigua Sportbar and Grill

Highlights
Excellent food and service
Amazing Mexican seafood options
Reasonable prices and plentiful portions

First of all, I have to say that this place is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. The atmosphere is lively and fun with multiple TVs showing sports games. But what really stood out was the excellent food and service.

The highlight of the menu, of course, was their amazing Mexican seafood options. From ceviche to shrimp cocktails, they had it all. But what really blew me away was their grilled octopus dish. It was cooked to perfection and seasoned just right.

The prices were also reasonable for the portions served. I mean, who doesn't love a good deal when it comes to food? And at La Antigua Sportbar and Grill, you definitely get your money's worth.

Overall, I highly recommend this restaurant for anyone looking for a great Mexican seafood experience in Chicago. It's definitely among one of the best places I've visited while researching for my article on the best mexican seafood restaurants in Chicago. So if you're in the area, make sure to stop by and try it out!

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Mariscos El Abuelo y Yo

Highlights
Delicious food
Unique crab salad
Spicy caldo de camaron
Friendly service

First, let's talk about the food. The flavors were out of this world! I ordered the shrimp cocktail and it was unlike any other I've had before. The sauce had a perfect balance of tanginess and spiciness that made my taste buds sing! But the real star of the show was their unique crab salad. It was a mixture of fresh ingredients that blended together perfectly to create a symphony in my mouth.

I also tried their caldo de camaron, which was spicy enough to make me break out into a sweat, but in the best way possible. The broth was rich and flavorful, with generous portions of shrimp that were cooked just right.

The service at Mariscos El Abuelo y Yo was top-notch too. The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, making sure all my needs were met throughout my visit.

Overall, if you're looking for a delicious meal in a welcoming atmosphere, then you need to check out Mariscos El Abuelo y Yo. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

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