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Brown Bag Seafood Co.
Master Critic Review
Brown Bag Seafood Co.
7.9
Brown Bag Seafood Co. is a counter-service spot where grilled, blackened, or crispy fish get dropped into boxes, salads, and sandwiches at lunch-friendly prices. Office workers and nearby residents use it as a reliable way to eat seafood on a weeknight without committing to a sit-down, white-tablecloth experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled salmon powerbox, Crispy fish tacos, Hot lobster roll
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Fast-casual seafood bowls and boxes where you pick your fish, style, and base.
Who should go: Weekday diners wanting lighter seafood without fuss.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner to dodge peak counter lines.
What to order: Grilled salmon box, crispy fish tacos, hot lobster roll.
Insider tip: Go off-peak, grab a box to-go, and eat along the river a few blocks away when weather cooperates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in River North is limited; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option during peak office and dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — office attire, athleisure, and jeans are all common and appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate — counter-service bustle at peak lunch, but generally easy to hold a conversation once seated.
Weekend wait: Typically little to no wait, though mobile pickup and delivery orders can create short delays during the early evening rush.
Weekday lunch: Expect a brief line during peak office lunch (5–10 minutes), with faster turnover outside the noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few salads, sides, and build-your-own combinations can be made meat-free.
Vegan options: Very limited — possible to customize bowls or salads, but most core items are seafood-centric.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be served over greens or grains instead of bread; request guidance at the counter as prep is shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for something casual and low-key — it’s counter-service and more functional than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, counter-service only. At busy lunch periods, expect to wait briefly for an open table or opt for takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — casual seating, simple grilled and crispy fish options, and quick service work well for families, especially earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Quick, lighter seafood at approachable prices — customizable bowls, boxes, and salads that work well for weekday meals and takeout.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service seafood dinner, raw bar experience, or a more celebratory setting with wider entree variety.