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Local picks

Oyster spots in River North

Oysters served with the expertise they deserve, not just as an afterthought on a crowded menu.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Charlie Martin's image 1
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Cozy space with Hollywood regency decor and mood lighting creates a speakeasy vibe. Bartenders craft exceptional cocktails, including standout Old Fashioneds and martinis. Atmosphere suits jazzy date nights and sophisticated dining with white tablecloths.

A petit shellfish tower offers tender shrimp, lobster, and fresh oysters. Manila clams come with crusty bread perfect for soaking up broth, while mussels are plump and linguine with clams features al dente pasta in a cheesy sauce.

Super fresh oysters come in a petit shellfish tower and a larger seafood tower with sauces. Appetizers include excellent oysters alongside crab cake.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the oysters, was super fresh and amazing."

"The French food here is phenomenal, with bold, refined flavors."

"The oysters and crab cake appetizers were excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekend nights.

2

The restaurant closes early at 11 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They often run out of popular menu items by 8 pm on weekends.

02
The Franklin Room image 1
New American restaurant

Underground space with rich fabrics, leathers, and carved woodwork creates a high-end speakeasy atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and intimate, with music at a level that allows easy conversation. A specialty whiskey selection and unique cocktails attract those seeking a refined drinking experience.

Incredibly fresh fish stands out with every order. The Chilean Seabass melts in your mouth and shines among the seafood options.

Oysters come with a yuzu mignonette that adds a bright, tangy flavor. They serve them on the half shell with a secret sauce that stands out. A Sancerre Blanc by the glass pairs well with the oysters.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing cocktails and flavorful dishes."

"The oysters and spicy bourbon mussels were absolute highlights."

"You have to try the oysters; they're a major highlight."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The bread basket costs $15 and is not listed on the menu.

03
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1

Upscale steakhouse offers intimate indoor seating and a welcoming outdoor patio with plants and shade. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with stylish decor including Deco lamps and a flowered canopy. Cocktails and wine pairings complement perfectly cooked steaks in a comfortable setting.

Oysters Rockefeller offers a modernized take on a classic dish with balanced flavors. Shrimp and hamachi crudo provide flavorful textures and variety for seafood lovers.

Oysters Rockefeller features briny oysters, creamy spinach, and a breadcrumb topping. The dish balances richness and butteriness without feeling heavy.

People are saying

"The steak here is melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The seafood here is melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The Oysters Rockefeller were perfectly balanced and rich."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, including weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

3

Half off bottles of wine are available on Monday nights.

04
Nic + Junior's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, stylish space offers front-row kitchen views and classy indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed up front to more refined in the back dining room, creating a welcoming vibe for drinks or meals. Cocktails stand out with creative, well-crafted options like Negroni and martinis.

Oysters come fresh and pair well with house-made focaccia. Dishes like shrimp pasta and Branzino highlight the seafood options clearly.

Oysters appear frequently as appetizers alongside house-made focaccia and other starters like arancini and Pรฃo de Queijo. They pair well with a variety of dishes, including pasta and grilled meats.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tuna crudo."

"The seafood, like oysters and branzino, was incredible and flavorful."

"You have to try the oysters with the focaccia."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant features a unique fusion of Brazilian and Italian cuisines.

05
Lure Fishbar - Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with quiet, elegant atmosphere and beautiful interior design featuring boat decor and funky wall art. Seating is comfortable and the space offers a small patio alongside plenty of indoor tables. The vibe suits a fancy dining experience rather than a casual, lively spot.

Oysters stand out as unbelievably fresh and cold, with options like blue point oysters available and often reordered. The menu offers a diverse seafood selection including crab cake, shrimp tempura, sushi, and salmon, all prepared with high quality.

Oysters come cold and fresh with a perfect balance of freshness and saltiness. Happy hour offers a great deal on these superb oysters that often lead to a second round.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, high quality, and delicious."

"The Seafood here is fantastic and the service is great."

"I found the oysters to be so delicious, I ordered a second round."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM, including weekends.

2

Enjoy half-off wine bottles during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

06
Pops for Champagne image 1

Sleek and modern wine bar offers a wide selection of champagnes and unique bottle service. Atmosphere feels sophisticated and upscale but somewhat sterile rather than cozy. Comfortable seating with ice buckets at window tables encourages conversation and people watching.

Oysters stand out with their freshness and great quality. They consistently taste perfect and fabulous.

Oysters come fresh and of great quality here. They taste perfect and fabulous every time.

People are saying

"I loved the great champagne selection and variety here."

"The oysters here are always fresh and perfect."

"The oysters here were always fresh and of great quality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with various food and drink options.

2

Reservations are recommended for window seats, especially during busy hours.

3

The bar offers a unique selection of grower champagne not found elsewhere.

07
The Wellsley image 1
Event venue

Art deco design and intimate lighting create a breathtaking space with two beautiful dining rooms and an upstairs lounge featuring red velvet curtains and sofas. The atmosphere combines a high-end polished vibe with loud, nightclub-style music that can make conversation challenging. Weekend DJs add a cinematic energy reminiscent of a Scorsese film.

Freshness stands out with the seafood platter and oysters served as appetizers. The menu includes fish dip and seafood ravioli, both noted for their quality.

Oysters stand out as phenomenal and highly recommended. They appear as a key appetizer alongside dishes like steak tartare and shrimp cocktail.

People are saying

"The bar staff are so engaging and friendly, even when busy."

"The seafood here is wonderful; I will definitely be back."

"The oysters here are phenomenal, the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

The restaurant is currently only hosting private events until the end of the year.

08
Yasemi, A Modern Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Spacious restaurant with modern, elegant decor and airy layout that avoids crowding. Atmosphere feels casual but chic, with loud music creating an energetic vibe. Tables require personal light to read menus due to dim lighting.

Oysters stand out with some of the best quality and a $2 happy hour special. The shrimp kebabs are consistently well made and delicious. Fish dishes come out crispy and very good.

$2 happy hour oysters offer great value and fresh taste. The oysters stand out as a super yummy highlight among other dishes.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh and delicious, especially the hummus."

"The seafood, especially the oysters and fish, was phenomenal and worth trying."

"I loved the happy hour oysters for just $2."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with unique cocktails at reasonable prices.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters during happy hour, a great deal for seafood lovers.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% surcharge to all bills, so plan accordingly.

09
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse offers a stylish and warm dining room with quiet sophistication and a relaxed but upmarket atmosphere. Cocktails are expertly crafted, complementing the coal-cooked steaks that define the menu. Private rooms and a dynamic space support both intimate and business gatherings.

Fresh oysters come with a ginger chili and fried onions topping. Vietnamese style oysters stand out as incredible. Scallops also feature on the seafood menu.

Fresh oysters come with a Vietnamese style topping of ginger chili and fried onions. The combination adds a perfect spicy crunch to the oysters.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The dinner service here is efficient and genuinely hilarious."

"I ate one of the best steaks I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm-6pm with great deals on steak, burgers, and oysters.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday roast, which is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options and is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

10
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

The Grand Seafood Tower offers a luxurious variety of fresh shellfish. Oysters Rockefeller stand out as incredible, alongside crab cake and calamari.

Oysters Rockefeller stand out with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. The baked version and crab cakes also offer bold, savory tastes that pair well with the lobster bisque.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"You have to try the oysters Rockefeller; they're incredible."

"You have to try the Rockefeller oysters; they were on point."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentineโ€™s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

11
Mastro's Steakhouse image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space features dim, cozy lighting and live music performances that create a romantic, upscale atmosphere. The lounge offers an upbeat vibe with talented singers and pianists providing background entertainment. Seating is close together, enhancing a lively, intimate feel.

Seafood tower offers a fresh, well-measured selection. Rockefeller oysters stand out, paired with tasty shrimp cocktail and crab cakes.

Rockefeller oysters stand out for their rich flavor and freshness. Large seafood towers feature raw oysters alongside shrimp, crab legs, and lobster.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and friendly staff."

"The steaks were tender and cooked to a perfect medium rare."

"I ordered two rounds of oysters because they were so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available and recommended for convenience.

12
Tortoise Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Elegant supper club blends live jazz music with a cozy, lively atmosphere featuring dark wood and colorful jazz-inspired wallpaper. Dining spaces include a private room with a bar, creating intimate vibes amid a bustling crowd. The setting combines elements of a jazz club and restaurant for a unique experience.

Oysters and shrimp cocktail stand out, especially during happy hour when they cost only $1. The sea bass also shines alongside dishes like bread with blue cheese butter spread and shrimp cocktail.

Happy hour features $1 big oysters and Maine oysters stand out for their quality. Oysters come with half off cocktails and wine, making them a solid choice alongside shrimp and drinks.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and delicious."

"The Maine oysters here are totally outstanding."

"The oysters during happy hour are a fantastic deal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events and should be made well in advance.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking costs $16 for three hours, making it convenient for guests.

13
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse blends trendy club vibe with live DJ sets and bold neon decor. Atmosphere feels lively and energetic, with music often loud enough to dominate conversations. Cocktails stand out as fresh and flavorful highlights amid the setting.

Oysters come fresh and perfectly prepared. The Shellfish Platter features flavorful oysters, shrimp, and crab. Shrimp stands out as very good.

Oysters come fresh and flavorful, often featured on a Shellfish Platter with shrimp and crab. Bartenders and servers provide detailed guidance on the oyster of the day and proper eating techniques.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The oysters here are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a one-hour wait for a table during peak dining hours.

3

Cocktails are priced at $9 during happy hour.

14
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy dรฉcor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Fried shrimp stands out with its crispy texture and rich flavor. Blackened shrimp and Fish & Grits also highlight the menu's focus on bold seafood flavors and comfort food twists.

Baked oysters stand out with their rich flavor and satisfying texture. The oyster dishes offer a memorable introduction to this seafood.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The seafood here is served with such amazing hospitality."

"The servers here are so energetic and friendly, they changed our mood."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

15
UMMO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a modern jazz inspired design with upstairs loft featuring live music and pool table. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and intimate dining to a lively late-night hangout with DJs and bands. Decor includes quirky records and stylish interiors creating a warm, upbeat vibe.

Freshness stands out with fire-roasted oysters and well-seasoned seafood snacks. Pasta alla chitarra pairs well with fish selections like branzino, offering a solid variety of seafood dishes.

Oysters come fresh and well seasoned, often served fire-roasted for a smoky flavor. They pair well with other dishes like mortadella gnoccho fritto and braised mixed barley salad.

People are saying

"You honestly canโ€™t go wrong with the outrageously good pasta here."

"The seafood chitarra was amazing, especially with fresh oysters."

"The oysters here were so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The loft space converts into a club after 10pm with a DJ and dancing.

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River North, Chicago

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