When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
King Crab House Chicago
Why King Crab House Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
King Crab House Chicago, located at 1816 N Halsted St in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, is a beloved seafood destination known as Chicago's oldest crab house, serving the city for more than 40 years. This restaurant offers a warm, quaint, and intimate setting great for various social occasions such as quiet date nights, family dinners, business meetings, or casual get-togethers with friends. The ambiance is welcoming and lively, featuring a full-service bar and high-definition TVs for enjoying local sports games, making it an engaging place to relax and socialize. While seafood, especially crab, is their specialty, they also cater to diverse tastes with a selection of steaks, pastas, and options for non-seafood lovers. Specials like All You Can Eat Snow Crab enhance the experience, attracting both seafood aficionados and casual diners. The restaurant's commitment to quality service, led by seafood chef legend Cy Sadaka, ensures top-notch hospitality. Additionally, King Crab House offers private dining for events such as birthdays and family gatherings with discounts for larger parties. The location's accessibility, combined with its diverse menu and friendly atmosphere, makes it an appealing spot for friends to connect over good food and drinks.
Here's what people think of King Crab House Chicago
As of recent, King Crab House Chicago holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1109 reviews.
Reviews of King Crab House Chicago reveal a generally positive patron experience with a rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on over 1,100 reviews. Guests praise the restaurant for its friendly and professional staff, excellent service, and delicious seafood offerings. Many reviewers specifically highlight the quality of the king crab legs, fresh oysters from the oyster bar, and flavorful dishes like prawn linguine. The three-course specials and all-you-can-eat crab deals are noted as great value and satisfying portions. Patrons also appreciate the versatility of the menu, which includes non-seafood options, accommodating diverse preferences, and the welcoming ambiance suitable for families and groups. On the other hand, some critiques mention that the quantity of seafood in certain dishes could be more generous and that the overall food may sometimes be mediocre according to a few reviewers. Additionally, the restaurant currently lacks wheelchair accessibility, which may affect some visitors. Despite these downsides, the overall consensus is that King Crab House Chicago is a reputable and enjoyable seafood restaurant with standout service and a fun atmosphere, making it a recommended destination for seafood lovers and groups looking for a casual yet quality dining experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sarah Mahler
We drove down from the northern suburbs for a birthday linner (early dinner). We were there for about 2 hours total, which is important to know for your paid street parking. We were seated by the open door near the street. It wasn’t loud, and we enjoyed people watching. The all you can eat crab legs were very meaty and they brought 4 clusters on the first go round (4 total claws) and then sets of two clusters on each ‘fill up’. I had the three course dinner with the salmon and clam chowder. The chowder was good, I would have loved to see it be a little thicker but overall it wasn’t bad. The salmon was good. Nothing overly special, the Cajun Potatoes were too spicy for me. The flavor was like if i had gotten them right out of a crawfish boil. Not my favorite. My mom got the sea bass and it was smaller than she thought but still flavorful. I would have like an alternative side option like rice, broccoli or potato is really all they have and I usually like some kind of rice with my fish (personal preference). Overall, great for a once in awhile but not worth the frequent drive from northern Illinois (1.5 hours on way).
Lisa Grigsby
Thank you for allowing me to have such a big party!! The food was delicious everything I ordered was good I have nothing bad to say about the food. One of the waitresses was a little agitated It looked like she wasn't used to a party of 15 or more. One of the workers told us that we were able to go outside and smoke and where we could actually go. And once we started going out there they blocked it off. I was not happy with that at all. The pita bread chips and the cheesecake is to die for. Make sure you get that. Again the food was delicious!!!!! Looking forward to coming back.
Anica F
Very quaint place. My friend and I sat at the bar. Kejtlin was our server and she was super nice and able to make recommendations. It seemed as if everyone assisted each other with their tables with no questions asked. They have so many specials and shareable plates. You can't go wrong with eating here. My friend and I both got specials that can be shared. The combos come with an appetizer and glass of wine of your choice. So you really get your monies worth. I really enjoyed the seafood especially with the hot chili dipping sauce. I had my steak cooked med well. It was tender but there was no flavor. It just tasted like the grill to me. So next time I may just get all seafood or ask them to make sure to place salt.on my steak prior to cooking it. I usually don't require steak sauce for a well cooked steak and I needed it.
zach munder
I've come to this restaurant several times now. A few times for dinner and twice now just for a quick oyster bar special with some drinks. Each time has been an exceptional experience. The food is always fresh and delicious with generous portions. The staff have always been attentive and have made some great recommendations. I would recommend this place to anyone trying to impress a date or just enjoy an evening out with friends.
CosmoMariaW
The oysters are 85 cents but you must purchase 2 cocktails to get the deal. It was amazing, I was suppose to make a tik tok but i want to gate keep this place 😭 i definitely will be back!!!
How to reach King Crab House Chicago
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Why King Crab House Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at King Crab House Chicago with your friends?
King Crab House Chicago stands out as an exceptional venue to gather friends for a memorable meetup. This restaurant, known as Chicago’s oldest crab house with over three decades of tradition, offers an inviting atmosphere that balances casual comfort with lively energy. It is renowned for its delectable seafood, especially fresh king crab legs and other shellfish delicacies, which make for a shared dining experience that encourages communal enjoyment and conversation. The ambiance is warm and intimate but spacious enough to accommodate groups, creating a perfect backdrop for socializing without feeling crowded. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to catch up over outstanding seafood and drinks, this place delivers a unique blend of quality, comfort, and local authenticity. Its convenient Lincoln Park location, complemented by friendly service and a full bar with high-definition TVs showing local sports games, also ensures that every visit is entertaining and engaging. With something for every palate, including non-seafood options, King Crab House guarantees a diverse and satisfying experience for all your friends in one vibrant setting.
What makes King Crab House Chicago perfect for group meetups?
King Crab House Chicago offers numerous features that make it ideal for gathering with friends or family. First and foremost, its menu is a celebration of seafood excellence, known especially for its king crab and snow crab offerings prepared fresh daily. Sharing large platters of crab legs and other shellfish naturally fosters a communal atmosphere perfect for groups. Beyond seafood lovers, the menu also includes steaks and pastas, ensuring that everyone in your party finds something delicious to enjoy. The restaurant’s layout supports both small and medium-sized parties comfortably, with a maximum venue capacity of around 60, making it suitable for casual dinners or more festive occasions. The staff is recognized for being polite, professional, and attentive, which helps create a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience where your group can focus entirely on having fun. Additionally, there is a full bar with a variety of drinks to complement your meal, which is perfect for raising a toast with friends. The presence of high-definition TVs showing sports games also adds a dynamic entertainment layer for sports enthusiasts within your group. Overall, King Crab House is not just a meal destination but a vibrant social hub that enhances every group gathering.
What activities can groups enjoy at King Crab House Chicago?
King Crab House Chicago is not just about eating; it offers several activities that make group events more lively and enjoyable. One of the highlights is the communal style of seafood dining — cracking open crab legs together, sharing sauces, sides, and specialty dishes creates a fun, interactive meal experience. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere encourages conversation and bonding over shared plates. For sports fans, watching local and major sports events on large HD screens adds excitement and a collective cheering experience, making it an excellent spot to catch a game with friends. The full-service bar offers a broad selection of cocktails, beers, and wines, which means guests can mix and match drinks, try new flavors, and enjoy cocktail nights with friends. Special event nights and promotions, such as seafood specials or three-course meal deals, provide novelty and value that groups appreciate when planning nights out. If your meetup is during the weekend, the extended lunch and dinner hours give you flexibility on timing, thus fitting various schedules. The family-friendly environment also makes it a great place for multi-generational gatherings where kids and adults alike can enjoy freshly prepared dishes and quality time. These combined elements ensure King Crab House offers more than just dining — it’s a place to socialize, celebrate, and create lasting memories.
How does King Crab House Chicago cater to different tastes within a group?
Catering to diverse tastes is crucial for any group venue, and King Crab House Chicago accomplishes this with a thoughtfully varied menu. While seafood is its specialty, the restaurant does not exclude those who prefer other options. Alongside the signature king crab legs and fresh oysters, they offer steaks cooked to order and pasta dishes, including excellent prawn linguine praised for its flavor and quality. This variety allows groups with mixed preferences—seafood lovers and non-seafood diners—to find satisfying meals without compromise. Additionally, the menu includes appetizers and sides that complement the main dishes and can be shared family-style, strengthening the communal dining experience. The availability of specials, such as three-course meals or oyster bar deals, provides affordable options and opportunities to try different flavors at a good value. The welcoming service staff is also known to make recommendations tailored to personal tastes, which helps when groups have varied dietary needs or preferences. This culinary diversity combined with attentive service ensures that no one in your group leaves less than delighted, making gatherings at King Crab House truly inclusive.
Why is King Crab House Chicago considered a reliable choice for hosting group events?
Reliability in food quality, service, and atmosphere is what makes King Crab House Chicago a favored choice for group events. With a solid 4.2-star rating from over 1,100 reviews, guests consistently praise its friendly and professional staff, which is critical when managing the needs of larger parties. The restaurant’s long-standing history as Chicago’s oldest crab house speaks to its sustained commitment to quality and community trust. Customers often highlight the freshness of the seafood and the flavorful preparations, giving confidence that every meal will meet expectations. The venue also accepts reservations, an essential convenience for group planning, especially during weekends or special occasions. The Lincoln Park location is accessible and inside a vibrant neighborhood, allowing guests to combine dining with other leisure activities before or after their meal. Free Wi-Fi and a comfortable dining environment make King Crab House an accommodating spot for both celebratory and casual meetups. Overall, these factors solidify its reputation as a dependable destination for friends and family looking to enjoy excellent food and good company.
What additional amenities does King Crab House Chicago provide that enhance group experiences?
Additional amenities at King Crab House Chicago further elevate the group dining experience. The restaurant offers complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas, which is useful for groups wanting to share moments on social media or coordinate outings. The dining space is versatile enough to accommodate up to 60 guests, allowing for private parties or semi-private gatherings, which are ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual reunions. The presence of a full-service bar with a wide drinks menu means groups can enjoy everything from classic cocktails to local beers, enhancing any celebration or casual meetup atmosphere. TVs broadcasting live sports create a sports bar vibe that many groups appreciate, especially if your meetup coincides with a major game or event. Furthermore, the staff’s attentiveness means accommodating specific requests or dietary restrictions is often seamless. The restaurant also operates with convenient hours, including weekend lunches, giving groups flexible timing options. These amenities, combined with the excellent food and welcoming ambiance, make King Crab House Chicago a comprehensive destination for group fun and relaxation.
What makes King Crab House Chicago’s location advantageous for meetups?
King Crab House Chicago is situated in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, one of Chicago’s most vibrant and accessible areas, which adds to its appeal as a meetup spot. The location is just a few miles from downtown Chicago and major landmarks such as Navy Pier and McCormick Place, making it convenient for both locals and visitors to reach. Public transportation and parking options in Lincoln Park are relatively good, easing the logistics of group travel. The neighborhood itself is bustling with shops, bars, and other entertainment venues, so friends can easily extend their meetup beyond the restaurant for pre- or post-dinner activities. Dining in Lincoln Park also offers a charming atmosphere with tree-lined streets and a mix of casual and upscale businesses, lending an inviting urban vibe to your gathering. This centrality combined with an iconic seafood restaurant like King Crab House situates your meetup at a true Chicago staple, enriching the experience with local character and convenience.
Does King Crab House Chicago accommodate families and different age groups?
Yes, King Crab House Chicago is family-friendly and welcomes guests of all ages, making it an excellent choice for meetups that include both adults and children. The menu includes dishes that appeal to younger diners, and the casual, comfortable environment helps families relax and enjoy their meals together. Many reviews highlight the enjoyment families find here, with special seafood offerings and non-seafood alternatives satisfying a range of tastes. The restaurant’s layout provides enough space for groups to spread out without feeling cramped, which is important for gatherings with children. The attentive service staff tends to be accommodating to families, providing a pleasant and stress-free dining experience. This inclusivity means your group can span generations, creating an opportunity to bond over shared experiences in a welcoming setting designed for all.
How does the dining experience at King Crab House Chicago compare for weekday versus weekend meetups?
The dining experience at King Crab House Chicago adapts well to both weekday and weekend meetups, offering slightly different vibes that cater to various group preferences. On weekdays, the restaurant tends to be quieter and somewhat more intimate, ideal for groups seeking a relaxed dinner or a casual social gathering without the weekend crowd. The service is attentive, and the atmosphere is conducive to easy conversation. Weekends, on the other hand, bring a livelier energy with longer hours—opening at 11 AM on Saturdays and Sundays—as well as potentially larger groups and more vibrant bar activity. This creates a festive environment perfect for celebrations or spirited get-togethers, especially with the entertainment of live sports broadcasts. Both options provide excellent food and service, but your choice of day might depend on whether your group prefers a calm ambiance or a bustling, energetic scene. Either way, King Crab House Chicago is poised to offer a satisfying and memorable group dining experience on any day of the week.
What dining options and specials enhance value for groups at King Crab House Chicago?
King Crab House Chicago offers several dining options and specials that enhance the value and enjoyment for groups. One notable offering is the three-course special menu, which many guests find to be a great deal in terms of portion size, variety, and price, enabling groups to enjoy a structured, multi-course meal without concern for individual ordering disparities. Additionally, the oyster bar specials are popular for those who want to indulge in fresh oysters at a good price, a perfect appetizer or addition to a seafood feast shared among friends. The main menu’s combination of dishes—ranging from king crab to pasta and steak—allows groups to mix and match items based on preference and appetite while controlling costs effectively. The availability of special promotions during certain nights or holidays encourages groups to plan visits for maximum benefit, making it easier to enjoy excellent seafood without overspending. Furthermore, the restaurant accepts reservations, which helps groups secure their preferred time and dining arrangements, crucial for seamless planning and group coordination. Together, these options provide a compelling value proposition for anyone looking to host an enjoyable and affordable group meetup.
How does the service at King Crab House Chicago contribute to a positive group meetup?
Service quality is a critical factor in group dining experiences, and King Crab House Chicago consistently receives praise for its friendly, polished, and professional staff. The servers are noted for their attentiveness and willingness to accommodate specific group needs, whether that means managing multiple orders efficiently or providing recommendations tailored to diverse palates. Good service helps streamline the flow of a meal when many people are ordering different dishes, ensuring food arrives timely and accurately, which enhances the overall experience for groups. The staff’s welcoming attitude also helps set a positive, relaxed tone from the moment guests arrive, making groups feel valued and comfortable. Reviews often highlight the excellent service as much as the food quality, reflecting a well-trained team that understands how to handle the dynamics of group dining. This combination of professionalism and warmth turns outings at King Crab House into effortlessly enjoyable occasions, perfect for friend gatherings or family celebrations alike.