Discover the salty allure of Shaw’s Crab House, a River North gem that has hooked locals since 1984 with coast-to-coast seafood flown in fresh daily.
Simple, perfectly executed preparations let the quality shine:
after 40 years, Shaw’s remains a Chicago institution, offering two distinct experiences under one roof.
A lively Oyster Bar and an elegant Main Dining Room styled after the 1940s.
How Shaw’s Crab House won locals’ hearts
From the moment it opened in 1984, Shaw’s drew Chicagoans with a clear promise: uncompromising seafood quality sourced directly from fishermen and farmers across the country.
Over four decades, the restaurant has shucked more than 10 million oysters and welcomed 8 million guests, earning loyalty through sustainable sourcing, strong purveyor relationships, and strict attention to seasonality.
There are no passing trends here—just resilient, authentic flavors that mirror Chicago’s gritty spirit, as owner Bill Nevruz proudly notes.
The Oyster Bar’s nautical charm—boats, vintage photos, and coastal details—keeps diners returning for comforting classics like king crab legs that never disappoint.
Word spread quickly among locals seeking reliable splurges for date nights, family celebrations, or group dinners, cementing Shaw’s reputation as one of the country’s premier seafood destinations.
After 40 years, the formula remains unchanged: pristine ingredients, flawless execution, and consistent praise for everything from raw oysters to blue crab–stuffed shrimp.
This isn’t hype—it’s a love letter from locals who trust Shaw’s to deliver every time.
Few dishes capture that trust better than the sweet Alaska king crab legs, served simply with warm olive oil and nothing else to distract from perfection.
Food Highlights
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Raw Oysters: A must-order at every table, ultra-fresh and served with Shaw’s signature champagne mignonette that diners rave is unbeatable.
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Alaska King Crab Legs: Sweet, steamed perfection brushed with olive oil, no condiments needed this is the signature splurge.
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King Crab (Whole or Split): Luxurious and shareable, ideal for celebratory nights in the Main Dining Room.
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Chargrilled Oysters: Smoky, bold, and TikTok-famous for their eye-catching sear and flavor punch.
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Blue Crab–Stuffed Shrimp: A nostalgic favorite from the original menu, packed with rich, hearty flavor.
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Shrimp Fettuccine: Creamy and satisfying, especially when paired with fresh-shucked oysters.
Atmosphere
Shaw’s offers two moods under one roof:
A casual, energetic Oyster Bar buzzing with conversation
A refined, white-tablecloth Main Dining Room with classic charm
Nautical décor, vintage photos, and 1940s flair set the tone, creating a polished yet comfortable space.
It’s photogenic, welcoming, and refreshingly free of long waits just great lighting and good energy.
Perfect for families, friends, or special occasions.
Bottom Line
Come to Shaw’s Crab House for flown-in-daily seafood, a 40-year legacy, lively Oyster Bar energy, unforgettable king crab, and authenticity locals continue to swear by—all in the heart of River North.
Address: 21 E Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60611
📞 (312) 527-2722
🕔 Mon-Thu 11:30am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-10pm, Sun 11:30am-9pm