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RPM Seafood
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
RPM Seafood
9.1
RPM Seafood is a riverfront showpiece from Lettuce Entertain You, built around seafood towers, charcoal-grilled whole fish, and polished service overlooking the Chicago River. It runs like a special-occasion machine, with a lively, dressed-up crowd, sharp wine program, and one of River North’s most dramatic patios.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grand Seafood Tower, Charcoal-grilled black bass, Wild Alaska halibut with brown butter
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Multi-level riverfront seafood house where towers, whole fish, and skyline views all land at once.
Who should go: Celebration diners wanting destination-level seafood and views.
When to visit: Golden hour or prime evenings for patio and buzz.
What to order: Grand Seafood Tower, charcoal-grilled black bass, wild halibut.
Insider tip: Ask for a riverfront table at sunset and build dinner around a tower and one shared grilled fish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service is typically available through the adjacent riverfront entrance and nearby garages; rates are premium and street parking is limited in River North, especially evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — jackets and dresses fit the room; elevated denim is acceptable but athleticwear will feel underdressed.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak evenings — conversation is possible at most tables, quieter on earlier seatings and patio corners.
Weekend wait: Plan well ahead — prime times book out; walk-ins may face 60–90 minutes or waitlist-only seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal wait with a reservation; walk-ins are often accommodated.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but present — a few salads, vegetable sides, and pasta-adjacent dishes; core menu is seafood-forward.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect to rely on customized vegetable sides; confirm with the server before ordering.
Gluten-free options: Good support — many grilled fish and raw bar items are naturally gluten-free, and the staff can guide modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the riverfront views, polished service, and special-occasion energy make it a strong choice for an impressive first date, especially at golden hour.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — the bar and limited patio/walk-in seating are occasionally available early or late, but prime hours usually require advance reservations.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids and special occasions; the room skews adult and celebratory, with few overt kid-specific menu items or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Seafood towers, whole-fish presentations, attentive service, and dramatic Chicago River views that elevate celebrations and date nights.
Skip if: You want a quiet, budget-friendly meal, highly casual seafood, or dislike lively dining rooms and premium pricing.
RPM Seafood
8.7
RPM Seafood is a multi-level, riverfront seafood house with expansive terraces overlooking the river and downtown skyline. Diners build upscale meals around seafood towers, crudo, and grilled fish in a polished setting that leans special-occasion more than casual.
Must-Try Dishes:
RPM Seafood Tower, Hamachi crudo, Grilled branzino
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Multi-level riverfront terraces pair polished seafood with prime skyline sightlines.
Who should go: Seafood-focused couples and groups planning upscale nights.
When to visit: Dusk into evening when the riverfront and city lights pop.
What to order: RPM Seafood Tower, hamachi crudo, grilled branzino.
Insider tip: Book a terrace-level table instead of rail seating if you want views plus easier group conversation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service is typically available through the adjoining riverfront complex; street parking is limited and nearby garages are the most reliable option, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy — polished attire fits the room; jeans are fine if styled up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is doable at most tables, but terrace and peak hours can run louder.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait or limited seating without a reservation, especially for terrace tables.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait with advance booking; walk-ins are more feasible indoors.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some vegetarian-friendly appetizers and sides; mains skew seafood-forward.
Vegan options: Limited — a few sides or salads may be adaptable with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Several seafood and grilled items are naturally gluten-leaning; note restrictions and the team can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the river views, polished service, and terrace seating make it feel memorable without being overly formal, especially at dusk.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — indoor seating is more attainable for walk-ins, but outdoor and riverfront tables are usually claimed by reservations; arrive early if you’re trying for the terrace.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more suited to adults and special-occasion meals; well-behaved older kids are fine, but there are few amenities geared toward young children.
Best For
Better for: Riverfront views, polished seafood towers, and special-occasion terrace dining where atmosphere matters as much as the food.
Skip if: You want casual pricing, ultra-quiet dining, or a menu with broad non-seafood and vegan coverage — a simpler neighborhood spot may suit better.