When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Wentworth Seafood House
Why Wentworth Seafood House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wentworth Seafood House, located in the heart of Chicago's Chinatown, is an exceptional destination for friends and families to gather over traditional Cantonese cuisine and fresh seafood. Known for its vibrant ambiance and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant offers a diverse menu that features live seafood sourced from in-house tanks, ensuring the freshest lobsters, crabs, prawns, and fish that are cooked to order and served steaming hot. Apart from live seafood, Wentworth Seafood House also presents authentic Cantonese dishes such as Mongolian beef, sizzling beef short ribs, sweet and sour chicken, and salt and pepper pork chops, catering to a wide range of tastes. Dim sum lovers can enjoy a solid selection available from morning until mid-afternoon, including favorites like siu mai, har gow, and crispy chive dumplings, as well as XL dim sum combos designed for sharing. The restaurant’s comfortable seating arrangements accommodate large groups, making it an ideal spot for meet-ups, celebrations, or casual dining with friends. With its blend of quality ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and a menu that spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Wentworth Seafood House offers a complete dining experience for those seeking authentic Asian flavors in a lively, central location in Chicago.
Here's what people think of Wentworth Seafood House
As of recent, Wentworth Seafood House holds a 4.6-star rating based on 575 reviews.
User reviews consistently rate Wentworth Seafood House highly, averaging a strong 4.6 out of 5 from over 570 reviews, underscoring its reputation as a favored dining spot in Chinatown. Positive feedback frequently highlights the freshness of the seafood due to live tanks on site, and the authenticity and variety of Cantonese dishes provided. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly service and the welcoming environment, which is often described as ideal for family gatherings and social meals. The dim sum selection also receives praise for quality and taste, including larger portion options catering to groups. However, some negative critiques point to the restaurant’s smaller dining space, which can sometimes feel cramped, and occasional waits during peak times despite reservations being accepted. A few patrons have mentioned that the price point, while generally reasonable, can be slightly higher for certain dishes compared to other local options. Overall, reviews conclude that Wentworth Seafood House is a reliable, satisfying choice for authentic Chinese seafood and Cantonese cuisine in Chicago's Chinatown, appreciated for its fresh ingredients, classic flavors, and hospitable setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Samantha Oulavong
We brought a friend here for her first dim sum experience, and it didn’t disappoint. The dim sum was fantastic—flavorful and perfectly prepared. We also explored other dishes, including the clam and egg custard. While the custard’s silky, smooth texture was excellent, it could have benefited from a bit more seasoning. Another highlight was the steamed sea bass, which was simply exquisite. The delicate flavor of the fish was elevated by a subtle sweetness from the dates, complemented beautifully by the slivered ginger, green onions, and cilantro. The combination of flavors and aromas made this dish truly memorable. Overall, a wonderful dining experience!
Alice yeung
Fast, efficient service, I really enjoyed the tender steamed fish (came with soup made from the fish). The magicarp roasted milk tea is really delicious and creamy, not too sweet.
Cassie Tran
Fast service and great food. My partner and I ordered an entree and a smaller dish and was never pressured to order more. We got (one) lobster soft noodles stir fry and salt and pepper egg tofu. The lobster was moist, juicy and sweet from freshness. The egg tofu was crispy outside and steaming hot and soft inside. Complimentary hot tea with the meal. Total for our meal came out to be around $60. Would come back to try other dishes. Very popular spot for Asian family style dining!
Kelvin Cee
Wentworth Seafood House offers an authentic Chinese dining experience with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The decor features traditional touches and a comfortable dining space, perfect for both family gatherings and casual meals. The service is attentive, and you can sense the pride the restaurant takes in creating a welcoming environment. Food Highlights: 1. Beef Chow Fun - The beef chow fun was flavorful with a great balance of tender beef, fresh bean sprouts, and well-seasoned noodles. The wok hei (smoky flavor) was present, making this a delicious, classic dish. 2. Clay Pot Tofu and Seafood - This dish came bubbling hot and was packed with generous portions of seafood and tofu. The sauce was savory with a hint of sweetness, enhancing the dish’s rich flavors. Each bite was hearty and satisfying. 3. Fried Bean Curd Rolls - Served in a traditional bamboo steamer, the fried bean curd rolls were crispy on the outside and filled with a savory blend that paired well with tea. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy dim sum staples. 4. Steamed Custard Buns - These delightful buns are a must-try! The steamed exterior is soft and fluffy, giving way to a warm, sweet custard filling. Each bite is a comforting mix of creamy and mildly sweet flavors, making it the perfect dessert or treat alongside tea. They’re satisfying without being overly rich, a wonderful finish to the meal. Wentworth Seafood House embodies the essence of Chinatown dining. With its flavorful dishes, friendly staff, and comforting ambiance, it’s a spot worth visiting whether you’re in the mood for dim sum, seafood, or classic Cantonese dishes. Be prepared for a relaxed dining pace, which lets you enjoy each dish to its fullest. Would definitely return to explore more from their extensive menu!
Mona
Wentworth Seafood House, located squarely on Old Chinatown’s main street, serves delicious, well-priced Chinese seafood and traditional dishes. As with most Chinese restaurants, it’s best and most affordable to come with a larger group and order multiple dishes family-style. It was crowded on a Friday night, but my group of 7 were able to get a table without much of a wait. It’s fairly spacious inside with a lot of seating, but can get a bit cramped when full. We ordered the following dishes (**= especially recommend): - Pan-fried beef with rice noodle: always a classic and go-to in any traditional Chinese restaurant; this one was cooked and flavored perfectly. - Eggplant Casserole**: super good! the eggplant was really delicious, creamy, and intensely flavorful. - Salt & Pepper Egg Tofu**: I’m always a huge fan of egg tofu, and this one was cooked very well, retaining lots of flavor with a crispy exterior and soft silky interior. - Walnut Shrimp: always delicious and a classic. - Salt & Pepper Soft Shell Crab**: really delicious! This dish was flavorful, crispy, and well-fried. - Sweet and Sour Fish Filet: this one was not a highlight; I wasn’t a huge fan of the sweet and sour sauce and felt the flavors were too simplistic overall. - Szechuan Style Mixed Seafood with Vegetable: this dish was just okay; the seafood was a little overcooked and tough in texture. Though you really can’t go wrong with most of the restaurants in Chicago Chinatown, Wentworth ranks highly for me with its flavorful, diverse, and traditional dishes; lively vibes/energy; and affordable prices. Our total was ~$19 per person. I did find the food to be a little too salty though; I was chugging water by the end.
How to reach Wentworth Seafood House
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Why Wentworth Seafood House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Wentworth Seafood House with your friends?
Wentworth Seafood House in Chicago’s Chinatown is an exceptional venue to gather with friends, offering an authentic Cantonese dining experience combined with a lively, welcoming atmosphere that fosters great socializing. Its strong rating of 4.6 from 575 reviews is a testament to the consistent quality and appeal of the establishment. When you come here with friends, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re partaking in a culinary journey highlighted by fresh live seafood selections, such as lobsters, crabs, and prawns, all sourced directly from their in-house tanks. This unique experience where seafood is plucked fresh and swiftly cooked appeals to food lovers who appreciate authenticity and quality.
The spacious table arrangements can comfortably accommodate groups, allowing everyone to share dishes in a convivial, family-style manner that enhances interaction. The restaurant’s location in the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown adds cultural immersion to the experience, making it perfect for both locals and visitors eager to explore Cantonese cuisine. Whether you’re kicking off a weekend brunch or enjoying a social dinner, Wentworth Seafood House offers a dynamic, vibrant space where friends can relax, connect, and enjoy fantastic food together, making it an ideal rally point for group meetups.
What activities are available at Wentworth Seafood House for a group meetup?
Wentworth Seafood House caters admirably to groups with a variety of activities and options designed to keep everyone engaged and satisfied. Firstly, the restaurant features an extensive and flexible dining menu that is perfect for sharing. Guests can dive into classic Cantonese specialties such as dim sum selections including siu mai, har gow, and crispy chive dumplings available from morning through late afternoon. Their dim sum offerings include larger family-style portions like spare ribs and chicken feet combo, which is both delicious and economical for groups. The shared nature of these dishes promotes interaction and discussion, encouraging group bonding over an array of flavors.
Beyond dim sum, the live seafood tanks are a highlight, providing a sort of interactive dining where guests can select their preferred fresh seafood to be cooked to perfection, making for a customized experience. This is great for groups who enjoy engaging with their food choices and trying something different together. The menu also includes familiar Cantonese staples like Mongolian beef, sweet & sour chicken, and sizzling beef short ribs, providing something for every palate, whether adventurous or more traditional. The restaurant’s bubble tea offerings add a fun twist to the meal, pleasing those who want a refreshing, sweet companion to the savory feast. This variety of culinary experiences makes Wentworth Seafood House a vibrant spot for group food discoveries and celebrations.
Why is Wentworth Seafood House perfect for group dining and meetups?
Wentworth Seafood House is particularly well-suited for group dining for several reasons tied to space, menu versatility, and overall atmosphere. The layout includes tables designed to accommodate up to ten people, which is ideal for large groups or families wanting to share dishes without feeling cramped. This ensures that gatherings can be comfortable and social without the inconvenience of splitting into multiple tables. Additionally, the restaurant’s efficient table service helps groups enjoy their meals in a timely and relaxed manner, avoiding the long waits commonly experienced at other popular Chinatown eateries.
The authenticity and variety of dishes ensure that all group members, regardless of dietary preferences or adventurousness with food, can find something they will enjoy. Those wanting to explore authentic Cantonese cuisine or sample fresh seafood will be satisfied while more familiar dishes are also available, appealing to picky eaters or children in the group. The welcoming, friendly service combined with the hustle and bustle of Chinatown imparts a joyful energy that enhances the social experience. With validated parking nearby, ease of access is another bonus, making meetups hassle-free from arrival to departure. This combination of ambiance, menu, and accommodation makes Wentworth Seafood House ideal for memorable group get-togethers.
What can you expect from the food and drink offerings at Wentworth Seafood House?
At Wentworth Seafood House, the culinary focus is on delivering authentic Cantonese flavors and the freshest seafood possible. The restaurant’s live seafood tanks serve as an interactive feature where diners can select their own lobster, crab, prawn, or fish, which will then be meticulously prepared in classic Cantonese style. This freshness translates into dishes that are bursting with flavor and texture, much appreciated by seafood lovers. In addition to live seafood, the menu is rich with traditional Cantonese favorites that emphasize quality ingredients and time-tested recipes, including Mongolian beef, sweet & sour chicken, and sizzling beef short ribs.
Dim sum is an important highlight, served daily from morning until mid-afternoon, featuring crowd-pleasers like shrimp dumplings (har gow), pork dumplings (siu mai), and crispy chive creations. Their larger dim sum portions allow groups to share and savor a variety of tastes without the long waits often associated with more crowded dim sum spots in Chinatown. Moreover, the restaurant offers a range of noodle soups, Chinese crepes, and herb-infused congee, ensuring a broad spectrum from light to hearty options. The bubble tea menu complements the food with refreshing beverages that add a modern Taiwanese twist, perfect for those wanting something sweet or cool to balance savory dishes. Expect a well-rounded meal where traditional meets fresh and flavorful.
How does Wentworth Seafood House complement a cultural and social experience?
Wentworth Seafood House is not just a restaurant; it’s a gateway to the rich cultural heritage found in Chicago’s Chinatown. Dining here immerses guests in an environment deeply connected to Cantonese culinary traditions and the vibrant local community. The restaurant’s location places it within walking distance of cultural landmarks such as the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum and the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago, making it a natural stop for groups exploring the cultural fabric of the neighborhood. This adds a meaningful dimension to meetups, as guests can pair a cultural outing with an authentic meal.
The ambiance inside is lively with the friendly, attentive service creating an inviting environment where everyone can feel welcome regardless of familiarity with Cantonese cuisine. The opportunity to try authentic dishes prepared with traditional techniques connects diners with a longstanding culinary heritage, making the meal more than just eating but an experience to be shared and remembered. Social dynamics are further enriched by the communal style of dining, where dishes are shared and conversations revolve around flavors, cooking styles, and cultural stories. This creates a warm, inclusive atmosphere ideal for family celebrations, friend reunions, or casual gatherings looking to combine good food with cultural engagement.
What practical amenities does Wentworth Seafood House provide for group visitors?
For groups planning a meetup, Wentworth Seafood House offers practical amenities that enhance convenience and comfort. One significant benefit is parking validation, which reduces the typical Chinatown parking fees to just $2 for three hours at nearby lots, alleviating the stress of finding affordable parking in a busy area. The restaurant’s hours from 9 am to 9 pm (closed Thursdays) provide flexible timing options for breakfast, lunch, dinners, or late afternoon meetups, accommodating different schedules within a group.
The staff is experienced in handling large parties, ensuring smooth coordination from seating to order taking and delivery, so groups can focus on enjoying their time together. The interior, while cozy, is designed to handle group sizes effectively without compromising service quality or comfort. Wentworth Seafood House’s commitment to quality and authenticity means guests can trust their experience will be consistent and satisfying every time. This combination of logistical ease, operational efficiency, and culinary excellence make it an intelligent choice for those wanting a seamless group dining experience in a culturally vibrant setting.