0 Followers
Shark's Fish & Chicken
Master Critic Review
Shark's Fish & Chicken
7.8
On State Street, this Shark's outpost leans into Chicago-style late-night seafood and wings, with baskets of fried chicken, catfish, and jumbo wings behind the counter. It’s a go-to for inexpensive, sauce-drenched wings and fried dinners grabbed after work or on the way home.
Must-Try Dishes:
10-Piece Wings with Mild Sauce and Fries, Catfish Nuggets Dinner, 6-Piece Wings and Shrimp Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A South Loop counter spot where fried wings, fish, and combo boxes run late at budget-friendly prices.
Who should go: Night-owl locals wanting saucy wings and fried seafood on a budget.
When to visit: Late evening and post-game windows when nearby options thin out.
What to order: 10-piece wings with mild sauce, catfish nuggets dinner, wings-and-shrimp combo.
Insider tip: Ask for sauce on the side if you prefer your wings to stay extra crispy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on State Street and nearby side streets; availability varies and can be tight late at night. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Very casual — hoodies, jerseys, and workwear are normal; come as you are.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during late-night rushes; conversational but not quiet-dining level.
Weekend wait: Usually no formal wait, but expect short pickup lines and slower ticket times during late nights.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait — orders are taken and prepared to-go.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — a few sides (fries, coleslaw, hush puppies) but menu is primarily fried chicken and seafood.
Vegan options: Minimal — only select sides may qualify; cross-contact with fry oil is likely.
Gluten-free options: No — most items are breaded and fried in shared oil with no gluten-free prep separation.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date — it’s a counter-service, takeout-focused spot best suited for quick, casual meals rather than lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are typically a few counter or small table seats, but most guests order takeout; seating is limited and first-come-first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids and teens who like wings and fried seafood; no kids’ menu or amenities, and late-night crowds can feel rowdy.
Best For
Better for: Late-night value meals, saucy jumbo wings, and fried combo boxes at budget pricing when nearby kitchens are closed.
Skip if: You want dine-in comfort, healthier preparations, or strict dietary accommodations — a sit-down chicken or seafood restaurant may be a better fit.