The Cape comes to Chicago

Fishbar

2956 N. Sheffield ave {Sheffield + Wellington}
(773) 687-8177

Fishbar met and surpassed every expectation we had. If you love good seafood, go. If you haven't made it to Cape Cod or Key West for an authentic right-off-the-wharf dining experience, go. If you're hungry, go. There's really no reason to not give Fishbar a try. While the hype and lines have certainly died down, the sustainability and success of Fishbar is likely to last for one key reason. No other neighborhood joint departs so far from the traditional mom and pop sandwich joint with such triumph and memorability; the seafood is so scrumptious we can guarantee you'll be looking forward to your next visit.

The prices were beyond reasonable for the top-notch quality seafood you're getting. Carpaccio, ceviche, tartares and fried delights were all under $10, no breaking the bank here. Undoubtedly would be a great place for an adventurous yet affordable date.

Right in line with the menu's prices was the decor of Fishbar, uniquely rustic it oozes East coast charm without a kitschy feel. A huge hanging canoe, oversized Marlin, and weathered ship wood line the walls while a blend of contemporary, Chicago jazz, and cajun music blast on the loud speakers. At the bar are smaller authentic touches: mason jars with silverware, Louisiana hot sauces and a variety of no-frill crackers for soup. Casual and relaxed, but cooler than the other side of the pillow, Fishbar actually elevates seafood by removing all that's pretentious about raw oysters or clams and making it approachable.

Be aware: they have rules. Parties of 6 or more must go next door to DMK for burgers and all seating is at the bar on rusty stools. If you have a larger party (under 6) go for the corner end of the counter or nab one of the 4 booths. The service was on-point, timely, considerate, and light-hearted; matching the feeling of the joint.

The outside

Inside the fish haven

More of the counter and chalkboard featuring daily specials

The menu

Oyster shooters. Horseradish is pungent masking the vodka and slippery oyster inside. Not recommended for the faint diner.

The lobster bisque done with a Fishbar twist. Not a cream-based soup this was became more delicious the more you ate it. Honestly I thought the soup was too peppery and could taste the fishstock, quite a turn-off for a first bite. When I revisited it the more I appreciated the complexity, depth, and tang of flavors. Not to mention the lobster chunks at the bottom.

Drooling. Luscious lobster gold. A generous lobster piece in the not-so-classic bisque.

Salmon Tartare special of the day. Again this was quite peppery but appropriately complimented the freshness of the salmon.

The wahoo ceviche special of the day. The fish must be caught, prepped, and canned with fresh pineapple, avocado, and red onion overnight; the clean, bright flavors sung a tropical melody. Vacations to Florida and the Caribbean can be postponed.

Federal Hill style calamari. The peppers stand in for red sauce. Perfectly sweet and hot take a fork-full of calamari ring and pepper for an unforgettable combination.

Who to bring:

• Smaller groups or a date
• A seafood-fearing friend

What to try (and skip)

• Skip the over-publicized lobster roll, teeny tiny for its price, a whopping market price of $18 for a less than 6 inch long sandwich is absurd.
• Crabby patty sandwich
• A La plancha octopus
• Gumbo soup
• Get creative, specials of the day are sure to feature what's in season and the most fresh

Take note

• The servers are behind the bar like actual bartenders. No agonizing bumping or turning around to flag them down; they'll never be behind you