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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Des Plaines

Authentic seafood

Made for those who insist that their seafood be prepared with the same techniques used at the source.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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Updated April 2026
01
ARI Sushi Japanese Restaurant image 1
ARI Sushi Japanese Restaurant image 2
ARI Sushi Japanese Restaurant image 3
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Small Japanese restaurant offers cozy, welcoming atmosphere with bright lighting and walls covered in dish photos. Space feels tight and intimate, suited for solo diners or small groups. Sushi quality stands out as fresh and delicious, paired with a notable sake selection.

Service feels genuine and attentive. Sushi preparation shows traditional techniques and fresh ingredients.

Fish comes extremely fresh and tasty, with great quality in the sushi. Rolls like the Crunchy Melt with cheese and the Caterpillar topped with fish roe highlight the freshness and perfect preparation.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I've ever tasted."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"I considered this one of the best and most authentic sushi restaurants I had ever been to."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch specials that are very good.

2

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

3

Quality fish and consistent service are hallmarks of the restaurant.

02
La Marina Mariscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior features live mariachi music and a live DJ with music videos on large screens, creating a loud, energetic atmosphere especially during karaoke nights. Decor is colorful and inviting, with numerous TVs showing sports. The vibe blends festive Mexican elements with a lively social scene.

Authentic Mexican seafood dishes stand out with fresh flavors and diverse options. The menu focuses on traditional mariscos prepared with care.

Seafood here feels fresh and beachside with tender shrimp and creamy mixed seafood dishes. The langostinos, shrimp cocktails, and seafood soup stand out for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters and octopus, is amazing."

"The cocktails were refreshing, flavorful, and had the right amount of liquor."

"I was looking for authentic Mexican meals, and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, $5 margaritas are available all day with Hornitos tequila.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1.99 tacos, including shrimp.

3

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 5 to 7 pm Monday through Thursday.

03
CHICAGO RAMEN image 1
Ramen restaurant

Counter seating faces an open kitchen where chefs prepare ramen in an intricate, visible process. The cramped space offers a Japanese small shop feel with tight bar-style seating and authentic decor that creates a comforting atmosphere reminiscent of Tokyo.

Rich, velvety broths and perfectly springy noodles create an authentic Japanese ramen experience. The soup is firm and tastes very close to what you'd find in Japan.

Shrimp tempura stands out with its light, airy fried texture and a satisfying crunch, paired with an amazing sauce. Shrimp wonton ramen offers a flavorful broth enhanced by lime, making it a great choice alongside fresh shrimp dumplings.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich and delicious."

"The ramen broth here tastes so authentic and flavorful."

"You have to try the shrimp wonton ramen; it's the best seafood I've had."

Good to know

1

There are only two tables for four people, leading to limited seating.

2

Expect high prices for extra toppings, like $7 for corn and chives.

3

The portion size is generous, offering good value for the price.

04
Kalavara Grocery image 1
Indian grocery store

Indian grocery store with a South Indian focus offers wide variety of ready-made foods and fresh Kerala lunch on weekends. Busy atmosphere with authentic, homestyle dishes like Al Faham Chicken and Thalassery biryani. Also stocks cookware and household items, providing a one-stop shopping experience.

Dishes deliver authentic Kerala flavors that stand out in every bite. South Indian takeout here stays true to traditional recipes and tastes.

Freshly cooked dishes include Telicherry Biriyani, fish fry, and King Fish Curry. Non-veg items like avail and poriyal come out tasty and flavorful.

People are saying

"Their biryani is unbeatable in taste."

"This grocery store has delicious, fresh food that tastes like homemade."

"The fish dishes here are fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Kalavara Grocery offers a wide variety of packed South Indian food and groceries.

2

Fresh Kerala lunch is available on Sundays.

3

Al Faham Chicken and Thalassery biryani are available only on weekends.

05
Sofia's Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with colorful, authentic decor creates a cozy, comfortable atmosphere accompanied by music. The space feels casual chic and intimate, attracting those seeking real, flavorful tacos and traditional dishes.

Vibrant, cozy decor sets the scene for authentic Mexican flavors. Food delivers a super authentic taste with great service throughout.

Shrimp tacos feature a mayonnaise-heavy sauce but lack strong flavor. Overall, the seafood dishes show inconsistent quality and are only average.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is seriously delicious and a 10/10."

"The tacos here are so delicious and authentic."

"The seafood here is really good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday special is available every Tuesday.

2

Each taco costs $1.99, but some tacos are priced at $4 each.

3

The restaurant offers catering and takeout services.

06
La Autentica Doñita Oaxaqueña image 1

Mexican restaurant with pink walls and colorful decor creates a cozy, family-like atmosphere despite loud music and a busy vibe. The space feels welcoming and offers spots for photos. Authentic Oaxacan food and handmade tortillas stand out as key features.

Food features authentic Oaxaqueña flavors with a focus on traditional Mexican dishes. The menu offers delicious and genuine regional tastes that stand out in the area.

Shrimp fajitas and a seafood molcajete stand out on the menu. Fish soup and shrimp combos also offer solid seafood options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very authentic."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

"The shrimp dishes here are really tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect a 35% surcharge on your bill.

2

A transaction fee applies for credit card payments.

3

The restaurant charges an 18% service fee at checkout.

07
The Tiki Terrace image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Polynesian-themed restaurant with handmade Hawaiian decor creates an immersive island vibe. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features authentic dancing shows that engage audiences. Popular for luau dinners requiring reservations, it offers a playful and fun experience.

Music and dance performances deliver authentic Polynesian culture with clear explanations of their meaning and history. The atmosphere feels genuinely Hawaiian, and the music acts like a musical massage.

Coconut shrimp stands out with a strong coconut flavor, though the shrimp are quite small. Other notable dishes include galbi ribs and garlic shrimp, both served as tasty appetizers.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the furikake fries."

"The authentic Polynesian dance show was impressive and entertaining."

"The coconut shrimp here is delicious and very coconutty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for both dinner and the show.

2

The show starts at 8:30pm, with seating at 7:30pm.

3

Expect to pay around $150 per person for the experience.

08
CHICAGO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with cozy modern decor and bright Asian artwork creates a calm, quiet atmosphere with relaxing lofi and piano music. The space suits both casual nights and special occasions, offering a comfortable and nostalgic vibe.

Flavors stay authentic and fresh with sushi that appeals to lovers of genuine taste. The egg used is notably authentic, enhancing the overall experience.

Freshness stands out with high-quality fish that tastes clean and flavorful. Dishes like sushi, eel rice, and fried oysters showcase crispy shrimp and oysters alongside beautifully presented seafood.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, tasted so fresh."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is authentic and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a small parking lot, so arrive early.

3

Menu includes unique items like Japanese hot dogs and curry dishes.

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Des Plaines, Illinois

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