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Brown Bag Seafood Co.

150 N Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606
$
Seafood

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Master Critic Review

Brown Bag Seafood Co. 7.9
West Loop
Brown Bag Seafood Co. at 150 N Riverside is a fast-casual counter where sustainable fish turns into bowls, salads, tacos, and lobster rolls for office workers along the river. It’s a go-to for lighter, customizable seafood lunches that still feel substantial and reasonably priced.
Must-Try Dishes: Salmon Power Box, Clam Chowder, Cod Lettuce Tomato (CLT) Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.5 Service: 8.4 Consistency: 8 Food Quality: 8.2 Atmosphere: 6.3 Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Counter-service seafood built for fast, customizable, healthier lunches.
Who should go: Office workers craving quick, lighter seafood near the river.
When to visit: Before noon or after one to dodge peak lunch lines.
What to order: Salmon power box, clam chowder, CLT cod sandwich.
Insider tip: Order ahead online, then grab a seat facing the river.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly paid garage and nearby surface lots around the riverfront office complex; limited street parking and typically competitive during weekday business hours.
Dress code: Casual and office-casual β€” gym clothes and jeans are fine; many guests come from nearby offices.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch with counter-service bustle; generally quiet enough to hold a short conversation once seated.
Weekend wait: Not a dinner destination and hours may be limited; if open, waits are uncommon.
Weekday lunch: Peak 12:00–1:00 pm can see 10–20 minutes for ordering; minimal wait before noon or after 1:15 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some build-your-own salads and bowls can be made vegetarian; sides and chowder are seafood-centric overall.
Vegan options: Limited β€” a few bowls and salads can be customized vegan by removing sauces or proteins.
Gluten-free options: Many bowls and salads can be prepared gluten-friendly on request; cross-contact possible in a fast-casual kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meet-ups than a true first date β€” it’s counter-service and geared toward quick lunches rather than lingering meals.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes β€” it’s walk-in only. Order at the counter and grab an open seat; off-peak hours offer the best chance at river-view seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for simple, quick meals β€” no table service or kids menu, but customizable bowls and sandwiches work well for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Fast, lighter seafood lunches with customizable bowls and salads at reasonable prices near the riverfront office corridor.
Skip if: You want a full-service seafood dinner, raw bar, or upscale atmosphere β€” this location is designed for quick daytime dining.