When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp
Why Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp, established in 1950 and located on Chicago's scenic South Canal Street by the river, is a treasured destination for seafood lovers seeking a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere to meet with friends. The restaurant is renowned for its signature family recipes featuring fried shrimp, fish, and chicken, made with traditions that have delighted generations. Its charming outdoor patio and large private dock offer an inviting backdrop, perfect for gatherings any time of the year. Whether you want to enjoy lunch, dinner, or late-night bites, Lawrence's has flexible hours and offers takeout and delivery to accommodate busy social plans. The generosity of their portions and the variety of shrimp preparations—from lightly breaded to smoked—make it an excellent place to share a meal with friends who appreciate authentic, comforting seafood. Additionally, free off-street parking adds convenience to the experience. Guests often highlight the warm hospitality and consistent quality that keep customers returning, making Lawrence's more than just a restaurant but a community hub for good food and friendly meetups.
Here's what people think of Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp
As of recent, Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp holds a 4.3-star rating based on 6534 reviews.
Customer reviews for Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp reveal a strong overall appreciation, reflected in its solid 4.3-star rating based on over 6,500 reviews. Positive feedback frequently praises the restaurant's flavorful fried shrimp and fish, with many diners commending the portions and the mix of traditional recipes that feel authentic and satisfying. The outdoor patio and river views also receive consistent mention as highlight features enhancing the dining experience. Several reviewers appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and convenient hours, noting that the restaurant works well for casual meetups and gatherings. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional inconsistencies in service speed and food quality, which vary depending on the time and staff on duty. A few comments also mention limited menu variety beyond seafood and chicken. Despite these critiques, the majority conclude that Lawrence's remains a dependable choice for fried seafood enthusiasts. The volume of positive experiences outweighs the negatives, attesting to its enduring popularity as a go-to seafood spot in Chicago that balances tradition with a comfortable setting for friends to connect over great food.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
chad svastisalee
Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp, Open 24/7 serving up some of the best breaded fried foods in Chicago's near south side. The location has plenty of parking, handicapped access ramp and easy to order lines. The kitchen staff is quick and orders take about 7-10 minutes. Get here before 11 pm to enjoy a cold brew Heineken, Modelo or Corona as they can't serve late night. The chicken sandwich, built with of chicken tenders was delightfully flavored with the works. The hit was the Fried Calamari with the side of Thai sweet chili dipping sauce.
Theisha Frazier
Nostalgia hit me as soon as I walked in. This place was a staple for my mom when I was a kid. They've made some changes since I was last here years ago. But there's just enough to make me remember the old Lawrence's. I noticed they have outside seating now. The ladies at the register greeted me and were patient while I looked at the menu. The wait wasn't too bad. My food came out HOT! I only can attest to the fried clams. I didn't try the other food. The clams were great! The tartar sauce was really good, too. My mom said the fish and shrimp were excellent and she can't wait for me to go back for her. Still a solid spot 👌🏾
perry knight
Visited after baseball game. Parking lot available, accessible establishment. There is outdoor seating with sn overall laid back feel. There was a wait. Order the well seasoned dill pickles. Just the right amount of dill and complementary seasoning. Fried to perfection, had to place a 2nd order because I ate the 1st batch. Ate the fried catfish and fried oyster at home. Both were seasoned and cook well. I had cocktail sauce for the oysters and mild sauce for the catfish.
Saif
I was hoping for some more flavor or something maybe something slightly healthier. It's just heavily breaded shrimp with little flavor. The staff were friendly and the place was clean so please note this. I just wasn't a fan of the food.
Tjae
This Place Has Been Around Since I Was A Kid- Still Serving Good Food. Satisfying For A Late Night Bite, Any Night! {24 Hours}LOVEEE THEIR SHRIMP, OYSTERS & SEAFOOD SALAD.
How to reach Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp
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Why Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp with your friends? For anyone looking to gather with friends or family around hearty, satisfying seafood, Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp stands out as an excellent choice. This 60-year-old Chicago favorite is renowned for its large, expertly fried shrimp and variety of seafood offerings that appeal to all tastes, making it perfect for group dining. The welcoming, casual atmosphere invites camaraderie and relaxed interaction, which is exactly what you want when hosting a meetup. It’s not just about the food; it’s about sharing a moment over iconic dishes that have been cherished for decades. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, the buzz and authenticity of this place create a unique experience that adds to the joy of gathering. Their reputation for traditional fried seafood coupled with friendly, attentive service ensures everyone in your group leaves happy and satisfied. Plus, with a solid rating of 4.3 from over 6,500 reviews, it’s clear that many have made Lawrence’s their go-to spot for seafood and socializing.
What kinds of activities and group-friendly features does Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp offer? While primarily known as a classic seafood joint, Lawrence’s offers much more than just food; it’s a place where your group can engage in a fun, sensory experience centered around flavorful, crispy fried seafood and comfortable, communal dining. For groups, the menu encourages sharing: you can order their famous large shrimp, coconut shrimp, clam strips, and popcorn shrimp platters, perfect for passing around the table. Unlike many seafood spots, Lawrence's pairs meals with beloved Southern-style sides like hush puppies ("fritters") and mac salad rather than the usual coleslaw, offering a twist for those who want variety. The casual, counter-service style allows your friends to interact and explore different dishes together, fostering conversation and collective enjoyment. The old-school vibe and family-owned feel mean the service is often warm and personal, helping large parties feel right at home. Outside seating, available at some locations, extends the gathering space and makes it suited for socializing in pleasant weather. Whether it’s a quick bite or a more leisurely meal, Lawrence’s serves as a hub for food, friendship, and fun.
Why is Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp a perfect spot for group meetups and family gatherings? For starters, the hearty portions and the ability to customize meals with two sides per dinner mean your group can easily satisfy different appetites. The consistency of their fried fish, shrimp, and clam strips means you can trust everyone will be pleased, creating less hassle in ordering. The restaurant's historic reputation brings a sense of nostalgia, especially for locals, adding a sentimental value to any meetup. The informal, counter-style ordering lends itself well to groups who want to order at their own pace, grab food quickly, and settle in to enjoy the meal together rather than waiting for formal plated service. Friendliness and familiarity are hallmarks here; staff members are noted for their helpfulness, especially when guiding newcomers through the menu and accommodating large orders. The family tradition behind the restaurant also means that groups can appreciate the authenticity and care baked into every dish. All of these factors combine to make a meetup at Lawrence’s not only delicious but also comfortable, communal, and memorable.
What should groups expect from the menu at Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp? The menu is straightforward, focusing on the best of fried seafood. Signature items include the large shrimp—available lightly breaded, coconut style, or plain—as well as clam strips, whitefish, catfish, and popcorn shrimp. Sides include old favorites like hush puppies, fries, and mac salad, catering to different taste preferences and complementing the seafood perfectly. The hot sauce offered is traditional and adds a kick, though mild and shrimp sauces are also available for more delicate palates. Reviewers applaud the size of the shrimp and their crispness, a must-try for groups to share and enjoy. Sandwich options like the cod fish sandwich also provide a quick meal choice for some in the group, but large platters are recommended to ensure everyone can sample a variety. The inclusion of hearty sides and the option to mix and match allow for a versatile meal experience suited to casual group dining. Overall, expect generous portions that foster sharing and a comforting, familiar seafood flavor profile.
What makes the atmosphere and service at Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp ideal for socializing? The vibe is relaxed and approachable, perfect for groups wanting to enjoy good food without formalities or long waits. Many reviewers note the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, who are willing to guide guests through the menu and assist with orders for large groups. This customer care enhances the social experience by preventing confusion and encouraging a smooth ordering flow. The eatery’s cleanliness and mild bustling energy add to the charm — it’s not a quiet fine-dining place but a lively spot where people feel comfortable chatting and enjoying each other’s company. Seating arrangements accommodate groups well, and some locations even offer outdoor tables, which is a boon for pleasant weather meetups. This combination of warm service, casual ambiance, and convenient ordering makes it easy for everyone to relax, socialize, and focus on the shared dining experience.
How can Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp accommodate different group preferences? The menu variety, though focused on fried seafood, includes several options that can satisfy various tastes. Those who prefer milder flavors can enjoy the coconut shrimp or the mild hot sauce version, while spice lovers can opt for the traditional hot sauce. For non-seafood eaters, offerings such as hush puppies and fries provide alternative sides, and some menu versions include chicken, addressing those occasionally reluctant to try seafood. The ability to choose two sides per meal also means dietary preferences and dislikes can be navigated without fuss. With a steady stream of repeat customers, Lawrence’s has fine-tuned its menu to please a diverse clientele, making group dining smoother and more inclusive. This flexibility ensures your entire group stays happy, regardless of individual taste limitations or dietary needs.
Why is Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp a smart choice for hosting celebrations and casual get-togethers? Its long-standing reputation combined with consistent food quality builds the perfect foundation for memorable gatherings. The affordability of dishes allows larger groups to enjoy a feast without breaking the bank, which is a critical factor for many celebratory occasions. The informal setting encourages a relaxed, fun atmosphere, removing any pressure of formal dining etiquette so guests can focus on mingling and enjoying themselves. Whether celebrating a birthday, a win with friends, or just catching up with family, Lawrence’s offers the right blend of nostalgia, quality, and comfort. The variety in the menu ensures no one feels left out, while the welcoming staff supports a seamless group dining experience. This combination creates a dependable meetup venue where good food and good company come to the forefront.
How does the overall reputation of Lawrence’s Fish & Shrimp reflect on hosting group events? With a 4.3-star rating from over 6,500 reviews, Lawrence’s clearly commands respect and appreciation from a wide audience. This level of positive feedback signals reliability in food quality and customer service, both crucial for group dining where expectations can be higher. Longtime local favorites and newcomers alike celebrate the generous shrimp portions and delicious sides, reinforcing the restaurant's identity as a seafood cornerstone. Consistent favorable reviews about service and atmosphere illustrate an environment designed for satisfaction and social connection. Although not every review is perfect, the overwhelming volume of praise places Lawrence’s as a trusted and proven choice for groups looking to rally for tasty seafood and a convivial environment.
In summary, Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp offers not only fantastic seafood but a welcoming and flexible environment that is ideal for meetups with friends and family. The combination of generous portions, diverse menu options, casual but clean atmosphere, and attentive service creates a space where groups can relax, share food, and enjoy each other's company without complication. Whether your occasion is casual or celebratory, this longstanding Chicago institution provides a dependable, flavorful, and sociable experience that stands the test of time.