Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best Seafood in Goose Island & River West

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Diego 7.7
West Town
A cocktail-led Mexican spot where the seafood shines most in ceviches, tostadas, and fish-and-shrimp tacos that pair naturally with the bar program. Best results come from ordering one chilled seafood plate plus one taco set, then stopping before the table turns into a pile-up of sauces and fried bites.
Must-Try Dishes: Ceviche, Tuna tostada, Gobernador taco (shrimp)
Scores:
Value: 7.2 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 7.7 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 8.4 Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Seafood-leaning Mexican plates built to match a serious cocktail program.
Who should go: Cocktail people who want ceviche and tacos.
When to visit: Early evening before the late-night crowd peaks.
What to order: Ceviche; tuna tostada; gobernador shrimp taco.
Insider tip: Pair one chilled dish with tacos—don’t over-order heavy fried items.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking (metered) with tight availability in the West Loop—easiest move is rideshare or park a few blocks out and walk. Garage options nearby, but expect a short walk during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual and photo-friendly—jeans are fine, but lean a little dressy for date night or girls’ night.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively—easy to talk early, gets louder as the bar fills later.
Weekend wait: 30–60 min without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait; service is fastest right at opening or before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—apps and sides can make a meal (think guac/salsas, street-style starters, and vegetable-forward plates), but it’s not the main focus.
Vegan options: Limited—doable with a careful order (salsas/veg sides), but most of the menu leans seafood and dairy-based sauces.
Gluten-free options: Some good options if you focus on ceviches/tostada-style seafood plates and corn-based items—confirm tortilla and fryer cross-contact if you’re sensitive.
Best For
Better for: Cocktail-driven Mexican seafood—ceviches, tostadas, and fish/shrimp tacos that feel designed for margaritas and mezcal drinks, plus a trendy “night-out” atmosphere.
Consider Alternatives If: You want traditional Mexican comfort classics, a quiet dinner, or a deep seafood menu beyond small plates—choose a more family-friendly Mexican spot or a dedicated seafood restaurant instead.