When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Chicago Oyster House
Why Chicago Oyster House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chicago Oyster House, located in Chicago's historic Prairie District within the vibrant South Loop neighborhood, offers an exceptional dining experience specializing in fresh oysters, premium seafood, sushi, and steaks. Established in 2013 and situated just one block away from the McCormick Place Convention Center, it has become a favored destination for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant features two raw bars — one dedicated to a vast selection of East and West Coast oysters served chilled on ice, and another focused on artfully prepared sushi and sashimi made from the day’s freshest catch. In addition to expertly prepared seafood, the kitchen offers prime steaks including a 30-day dry aged NY Strip, alongside specialties like grilled oysters, steamed king crab legs, and delicately fried soft-shell crab. The sophisticated yet intimate atmosphere, complete with a bar and large TV in the front area, provides a perfect setting for casual dinners, date nights, or social gatherings. Capacity options and private dining spaces make it an excellent venue for special occasions and business events. Daily fresh deliveries ensure exceptional quality, making Chicago Oyster House a great spot to meet up with friends for both classic seafood plates and inventive sushi rolls in an upscale, welcoming environment.
Here's what people think of Chicago Oyster House
As of recent, Chicago Oyster House holds a 4.3-star rating based on 699 reviews.
Reviewers commonly praise Chicago Oyster House for its fresh and high-quality seafood, notably the extensive selection of oysters and the flavorful grilled options. Many reviewers highlight the intimate and stylish ambiance paired with attentive service, making it a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. Positive mentions often focus on the fresh oysters platter, fried oyster appetizers, clam chowder, and standout dishes such as the grilled Scottish salmon and the prime filet mignon with complementary sides. Visitors also appreciate the sushi offerings and the variety of wine selections for those looking to complement their meal. Additionally, the restaurant’s convenient proximity to McCormick Place attracts both business visitors and locals, making it a lively yet sophisticated venue. On the downside, some reviewers suggest skipping the sushi in favor of seafood and steaks, indicating that the sushi didn't quite meet expectations. A few mention that the venue's small size can feel cramped during busy times, and price points lean toward the higher end, reflecting the quality but possibly limiting for budget-conscious diners. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus regards Chicago Oyster House as a reliable destination for fresh seafood and prime steaks with a welcoming atmosphere, excellent service, and consistent quality. Its blend of raw bar, sushi, and grilled specialties, along with flexible dining spaces, keeps diners returning and earns the restaurant a solid 4.3-star rating from nearly 700 reviews.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Steven Novak
Great service and friendly hostess! I sat at the bar and had the blue oysters, filet, asparagus and an old fashioned. The oysters were some of the best I have had! The filet was also excellent and cooked perfect. The asparagus and old fashioned were mediocre.
Rudi DiPrima
I give this restaurant 5 stars because of the friendly, attentive service and the delicious fresh seafood. We came here for dinner on the last evening of a 3 day stay in Chicago. We ordered and assortment of fresh and bbq oysters and several entrees. I had the snow crab, which was great. The rest of us had pasta, green salad, clam chowder, lobster roll. Everyone enjoyed their food. The server was friendly and patient, willing to answer all our questions and give us time to decide. I'd recommend this place.
B Hudson
Me and my daughter was here last night. I honestly believe the oysters are imitation. I compared them with “Half Shell Restaurant” you can tell the difference. I also ordered a French 75 and I had to send it back because it was not a French 75. Overall I will not be back it was my first time.
Scott Nnamah
Very intimate and romantic atmosphere. My wife and I had reservations in Valentine’s Day and it was a perfect way to start our evening. They offer a coat check service for $3 and a parking pass for zone #1677 for $5 which helps you contest tickets from the Chicago parking authority. We started off with martinis and the SOUTHERN FRIED OYSTERS and the NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER. The fried oysters were light and flavorful and they pair it with a sauce that reminds me of a spicy ketchup. The clam chowder was standard and it prepared our palates for the entrees. We also tried the Chicago sushi roll which consisted of Bigeye tuna, salmon, yellowtail, cucumber, avocado, topped with spicy mayo.DELICIOUS! Next we ordered the GRILLED COMBO which allowed us to try 2 of each style from the grilled oysters menu. My favorite was the FIRECRACKER and I would also recommend the COH. After that we ordered from the raw bar. We tried APHRODITE and then CUPID’s ARROW. Phenomenal. To end the night, we ordered another round of martinis. 🥂Cheers to the Chicago oyster house for great customer service and delicious oysters!
Caprice King
This place has been pinned in my Want To Go for a few months and I took restaurant week as my opportunity. I got lychee martini/ Delaware oysters/ filet mignon with sautéed broccolini/ ny cheesecake from the restaurant week menu, totaling around $125 after tax/20% surcharge etc. Becky is SO well versed in the menu and was able to offer really valuable suggestions as I’m an oyster newbie. You can tell she cares about what she does. It felt very neighborly for someone to come in and literally greet her by name from the front door. The restaurant is beautiful, the food is phenomenal and the hospitality is incredible. The meal was great but tbh I think I’d come back just for Becky!
How to reach Chicago Oyster House
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Why Chicago Oyster House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chicago Oyster House with your friends?
Chicago Oyster House stands out as an exceptional venue for gathering with friends thanks to its unique blend of atmosphere, food quality, and service. Nestled in Chicago’s historic Prairie District, this charming and intimate seafood restaurant offers an inviting ambiance that fosters connection and celebration. Whether you want a relaxed evening or a special night out, the warm, elegant décor makes everyone feel comfortable and welcomed. In addition to its cozy setting, the restaurant boasts a well-curated menu featuring the freshest oysters, sushi, seafood, and prime steaks, making it a culinary delight for a diverse group of tastes.
The quality of the food here encourages sharing and exploration among friends, sparking lively conversations about favorite dishes and new flavors. Moreover, Chicago Oyster House’s location near the McCormick Place makes it extremely accessible for locals and visitors alike, which is perfect for meetups following events or simply as a convenient spot to catch up. The staff reputation for exceptional service ensures that your group will be well taken care of, allowing you to focus on enjoying each other’s company instead of logistics. Overall, this restaurant strikes a perfect balance between elegance and a no-pressure environment, making it an ideal place to rally your friends for an unforgettable meal and social experience.
What activities can you do at Chicago Oyster House?
At Chicago Oyster House, the primary activity revolves around enjoying top-tier dining centered on seafood and steak. You and your friends can savor a variety of fresh oysters, sushi rolls, and expertly prepared prime steaks, making the meal itself a highlight and a shared discovery. The menu’s range allows everyone in the group to find something appealing, whether they prefer raw seafood delicacies like ceviche or hearty, dry-aged bone-in steaks. This variety supports an engaging communal dining experience, perfect for those who like to order multiple dishes and share plates.
Aside from dining, the front area boasts a large TV and a bar, which creates additional opportunities for group interaction. Whether you want to watch a sporting event, enjoy a casual cocktail gathering, or just have a lively space to chat, the bar area fosters a relaxed social vibe. The intimate size of the venue means it’s easy to engage with everyone in your group without the chaos of larger, noisier places. For groups interested in hosting private occasions, Chicago Oyster House offers customizable event spaces suited for birthdays, anniversaries, or small corporate meetups, providing a more private and personalized setting for celebrations. There’s also the convenience of carryout and delivery for casual get-togethers, allowing more flexibility in how you experience their excellent cuisine with your friends.
Why is Chicago Oyster House perfect for group meetups?
Chicago Oyster House hits a sweet spot for group meetups because it combines fresh, quality cuisine with an environment that encourages social connection. Its menu is versatile enough to cater to many tastes—seafood lovers rejoice with fresh oysters and sushi, while meat enthusiasts can indulge in premium steaks. This ensures no one in the group feels limited, avoiding the common group-dining frustration of restricted options. The quality of food paired with attentive service amplifies the dining experience, making everyone feel valued and well cared for, which is crucial when hosting friends or family.
The venue’s intimate size offers a cozy atmosphere that allows for easy conversation and group bonding without the distractions or echoing noise found in larger restaurants. The presence of a bar and large screen TVs provides a casual entertainment option before or after the meal, turning a simple dinner into an event or celebration. The restaurant’s location near major Chicago landmarks and public transport links also enhances convenience for group gatherings, reducing logistical headaches. Furthermore, for those planning bigger occasions, the customizable event spaces cater to private celebrations, making Chicago Oyster House not only a restaurant but a flexible event partner. Combined, these factors create an excellent setting for socializing, eating well, and making memories with your circle.
How does the food & beverage at Chicago Oyster House enhance your group experience?
Chicago Oyster House elevates any group gathering through an impressive food and beverage selection that appeals to both adventurous and traditional palates. Their oysters are consistently fresh and come in various preparations that encourage sampling and sharing, perfect for groups who enjoy trying multiple small plates. Complementing the oysters are the sushi and sashimi dishes, which are made to order, adding an element of artistry and freshness to the meal. For groups craving something more substantial, the dry-aged, bone-in steaks provide a hearty centerpiece that satisfies steak lovers with rich flavor and excellent textures.
The drinks menu supports the dining options with a well-stocked bar offering cocktails, wines, and beers thoughtfully curated to pair with seafood and steaks. This diversity lets everyone find a drink that suits their taste, further enhancing the sociability of eating out. The restaurant’s commitment to freshness and quality means every bite and sip contributes to a more memorable group meal, reducing the risk of disappointment and making the outing something your friends will talk about afterward. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxed dinner or make it a festive occasion, Chicago Oyster House’s food and beverages provide a premium backdrop for connecting over great tastes.
What makes the service and ambiance at Chicago Oyster House ideal for social occasions?
Service at Chicago Oyster House is known for being exceptionally attentive and personable, which greatly enhances any social occasion. The staff is praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making sure that every guest, from individuals to larger groups, feels looked after without feeling rushed. This balance is crucial during group meetups where pacing the meal to accommodate conversation and multiple dishes can be a challenge. The waitstaff’s knowledge of the menu also helps guide groups through choices, improving the overall dining experience.
The ambiance lends itself beautifully to social gatherings; the restaurant’s elegant yet intimate interior creates a welcoming environment where guests can relax and enjoy each other’s company. The smaller venue size avoids overwhelming noise levels and offers a comfortable space that encourages connection. The presence of a large TV and bar area further adds to the atmosphere by providing entertainment and a casual spot for pre-dinner drinks or post-meal winding down. Every element, from lighting to layout, works together to create a setting that feels special yet unpretentious, ideal for those looking to celebrate, reconnect, or simply enjoy quality time with friends or family.
How accessible and convenient is Chicago Oyster House for a group meetup?
Chicago Oyster House is strategically located in the South Loop neighborhood near the McCormick Place convention center, making it highly accessible for both local Chicagoans and travelers. This location is advantageous for groups convening after conventions, events, or excursions, providing a nearby dining option that doesn’t require long travel or complicated directions. The neighborhood itself is easy to reach by public transportation and offers reasonable parking options, crucial factors when coordinating a group meetup.
The restaurant’s operational hours, with dinner service offered seven nights a week, provide flexibility in scheduling your gathering. Additionally, Chicago Oyster House supports carryout and delivery through its website, accommodating groups who might want to start the meal off-site or continue socializing elsewhere. For larger groups or special events, the restaurant offers customizable private spaces, meaning your meetup can be as intimate or as festive as you choose. All these factors combine for a seamless meetup experience, reducing common hurdles related to travel and timing when organizing a group dining occasion.
What kind of events and celebrations can Chicago Oyster House accommodate?
Chicago Oyster House is well-equipped to handle a variety of private events and celebrations for groups, making it an excellent choice beyond casual dining with friends. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, anniversary celebration, corporate event, or a milestone gathering, the restaurant offers customizable spaces tailored to your needs. The intimate atmosphere and elegant décor create a refined backdrop that elevates any occasion without feeling overly formal or intimidating.
The staff collaborates with guests to customize menus, drinks, and service styles to fit the nature of the event, ensuring a personalized experience. This flexibility is key to accommodating special dietary preferences and creating themed or upscale dining experiences. Guests can enjoy the full range of menu offerings including fresh oysters, sushi, and premium steaks, which adds a sense of indulgence and celebration. Overall, Chicago Oyster House’s ability to adapt to different group sizes and event types while maintaining high-quality food and service makes it a dependable and desirable venue for social events.
Why do visitors rate Chicago Oyster House highly for group dining?
Visitors consistently rate Chicago Oyster House highly, with an impressive 4.3-star rating from nearly 700 reviews, reflecting its strong reputation as a group dining destination. Reviewers often highlight the freshness of seafood and sushi, which is paramount when dining with friends who expect quality and variety. The praised service further elevates the experience, as courteous and knowledgeable staff help the group navigate the menu and ensure everyone’s needs are met. The restaurant’s intimate setting also receives frequent positive mention, as it allows for meaningful conversation and sharing without the distractions of a larger establishment.
Moreover, multiple reviewers mention that the venue’s location and ambiance make it perfect for both casual and special occasions, reinforcing why groups choose to meet here repeatedly. While some reviews note that prices can be on the higher side, many guests express that the quality and experience justify the expense, especially when gathered with friends. The ongoing patronage and recommendation from a broad clientele underscore Chicago Oyster House as a preferred spot to host memorable group meals in Chicago’s vibrant dining scene.