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Guide to Joliet

American food and seafood

American-style seafood that focuses on the quality of the catch rather than drowning it in butter.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
JD's BBQ image 1
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Barbecue restaurant

Simple, spacious barbecue restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like family. Lounge and event space offer room for gatherings with TVs and a bar area. Friendly energy and good music create a relaxed vibe.

Brisket stands out with its soft texture and passes the finger test. Chicken wings and catfish come fried to perfection, fresh and crispy. Mac and cheese tastes like heaven and coleslaw is on point.

Fish dishes arrive fresh and hot with a crispy, well-seasoned coating. The fish pairs well with chicken wings and ribs, all offering a tender, flavorful experience.

People are saying

"These ribs just fall right off the bone."

"I found JD's BBQ to be some of the best barbecue I've ever had."

"The fried seafood here is crispy and tender, just like mom's."

Good to know

1

The takeout service has little to no wait, making it convenient.

2

Order in advance to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

3

JD's BBQ is open late night on Friday and Saturday for late diners.

02
All That And A Touch of Soul image 1

Small dining room with only five tables creates a cozy, down-home vibe that feels like a family gathering. Music and board games add to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The place stands out for its authentic soul food and friendly, intimate setting.

Fried chicken wings come out crispy and tender without any greasiness. Blackened catfish with grits and lemon pepper catfish pair well with classic sides like sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, greens, and cornbread.

Fish comes out fried perfectly and seasoned well, standing out as the meal's highlight. The Seafood Lasagna impresses with rich layers, and the seafood gumbo offers a flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the oxtails and jerk chicken."

"The dinner spots here serve truly satisfying, home-cooked tasting food."

"You'll love the American Food, especially the creamy mac and cheese."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the meat is freshly made and takes time.

2

The restaurant closes at 7pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect larger portions than average, often enough for two meals.

03
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern, clean space with a spacious layout and intimate lighting creates a laid-back atmosphere. Latin music and live baseball games add to the upbeat vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican tacos and excellent margaritas in a warm, inviting setting.

Chicken wings stand out as a highlight here. The hot dog is good, while the hamburger is just okay.

Shrimp and steak tacos stand out with just the right heat and well-complemented salsas. Other seafood options like the shrimp burrito and potato taquitos also deliver solid flavors.

People are saying

"The steak and shrimp tacos were amazing and flavorful."

"The steak and shrimp tacos here are amazing."

"The mole tacos were delicious and sweet."

Good to know

1

Half-price margaritas are available on Thursdays.

2

The restaurant is cash only, so bring cash or use the ATM.

3

They charge a 4% fee for credit card payments.

04
Metro Grill & Bar image 1

Open kitchen layout reveals chefs at work, creating an interactive dining experience. Atmosphere shifts from cozy and elegant to a loud sports bar vibe with karaoke and buckets of beer. Features include slot machines, video games, and an outdoor patio with comfortable furniture and landscaping.

Cheeseburgers come fresh, tasty, and cooked perfectly. Brisket Mac and cheese stands out, and the homemade meatloaf tastes delicious. Brisket tacos also impress with their flavor.

Fish dishes feature a crisp, crunchy coating with tender, flaky fish inside. Fish and chips stand out for their mild fish taste and well-made batter, while fish tacos offer a great flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the wedge salad with creamy garlic dressing."

"The brisket mac and cheese here is outstanding."

"The fish and chips here is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Half-price appetizers are available on Mondays.

2

Singo Night occurs every Sunday with live performances.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

05
Richardson's Downtown Sports Bar and Grill image 1

Sports bar and grill with cozy, feel-good atmosphere and a family-like vibe. Offers outdoor seating and a full bar with cold beer and unique shots. Interior shows some unfinished details but maintains a warm, inviting energy.

Brisket stands out with fall-off-the-bone tenderness and features in nachos, sandwiches, and even salads. Pulled pork pairs well with it, and the coleslaw complements ribs with balanced flavors. Gumbo also appears as a solid option.

Fish fry happens on Fridays and weekends with a live DJ. Ocean perch and cod are fresh and well seasoned.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket sandwich; it's fall-off-the-bone tender."

"The food at this bar is excellent and full of flavor."

"The seafood here is so fresh and seasoned well."

Good to know

1

Fish fry is available on weekends with a live DJ.

2

Bingo nights occur every Friday, providing a fun atmosphere.

3

Expect longer wait times during lunch rush hours.

06
The Irish Corner Cantina image 1

Restaurant blends Day of the Dead and Ireland themes with a family-friendly kid nook featuring games and books. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with a mix of arcade games, darts, and slot machines adding lively touches. Seating is eclectic, and multiple TV screens cater to sports fans.

Buffalo wings come with tasty fries and a mild kick. Onion rings and the Reuben sandwich stand out for flavor. Chicken tenders, grilled cheese, pulled pork, burgers, and brisket sandwiches offer solid American classics.

Buffalo shrimp stands out as a flavorful appetizer, offered both fried and grilled. Other seafood options include fish and chips, though reactions to it vary.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the buffalo shrimp."

"The American Food here is great, and the staff is super friendly."

"You have to try the buffalo shrimp; it's amazing seafood."

Good to know

1

The place is family-friendly and has a kids area for casual outings.

2

DIY craft nights and trivia events are hosted regularly.

3

Live music and karaoke nights are popular on weekends.

07
Fritz's Pour House Bar image 1

Small, packed space with a classic old pub and dive bar feel creates a relaxed, chill atmosphere. Music and games add to the friendly, comforting vibe. Known for great Bloody Marys and a nostalgic Chicago-style pub experience.

Large Buffalo wings come with fantastic sauce. The chicken pot pie stands out for its rich flavor. Cheese sticks, burgers, and fried chicken offer classic tastes. Funnel cake fries add a sweet twist.

Fresh oysters on the half shell and a shrimp po' boy stand out on the menu. Salmon and shrimp dishes come with solid flavors, alongside goat cheese appetizers and spinach artichoke dip.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the steak and shrimp, is excellent."

"The mozzarella sticks were huge and had a legendary cheese pull."

"The shrimp and steak here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Wine Wednesday offers special deals for ladies every week.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

The kitchen is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.

08
Jameson's Pub Joliet image 1

Sports bar with many TVs and a large outdoor patio creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Cozy patio seating and a dog-friendly space offer a relaxed vibe outside, while inside feels energetic and busy during games. Flat metal ceilings contribute to high noise levels, making conversation difficult when crowded.

Boneless chicken wings come in generous portions and have exceptional quality. The menu also features Jameson's Nachos, barbecue ribs, and a bacon cheeseburger that stands out.

Jumbo Shrimp dinner comes with Seasonal Veggies. Fish and chips stay crispy and come in generous portions. Buffalo shrimp pairs well with sweet potato fries.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"I loved their American food, especially the bacon cheeseburger."

"The seafood here is yummy with generous portions."

Good to know

1

Bingo night happens every Tuesday with drink specials.

2

Game day specials are available during major sports events.

3

A 3% surcharge applies to credit card payments.

09
CUT 158 Chophouse image 1

Upscale steakhouse with beautiful decor and spacious, modern architecture creates an elegant atmosphere. Live jazz and opera music add a classy vibe, though volume can challenge conversation. Well-crafted cocktails and unique meats complement the refined dining experience.

Crab cakes, shrimp, steak, and scallops stand out as excellent dishes. The surf and turf option combines these elements well, and the carrot cake offers a sweet finish.

Seafood dishes feature fall off the bone tender ribs, perfectly cooked lobster, and unmatched swordfish with Pico. Appetizers like garlic shrimp and crab cakes stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked to perfection."

"The seafood, especially the crab cakes and scallops, was cooked perfectly."

"The American Food here, especially the surf and turf, is incredible."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances occur every weekend, enhancing the dining experience.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant has an upscale dress code; business casual is preferred.

10
Red Crab - Juicy Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with a laid back sportsbar atmosphere and keg barstools creates a casual dining space. The vibe ranges from quiet and peaceful during weekdays to lively and fun on weekends. Fresh, flavorful seafood boils pair with a fantastic bar, making it a consistent spot for seafood lovers.

Cajun butter sauce flavors seafood boils with shrimp, clams, and andouille sausage. Crab cakes come out terrific, and chicken wings stay crispy with lemon pepper seasoning.

Seafood boils come with customizable spice levels and a choice of seafood options. Fresh crab and shrimp arrive perfectly seasoned with Cajun hot flavor, served with gloves and a bin for easy eating.

People are saying

"The seafood boil here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my daughter loved the Crab Boil Bag."

"I tried the clam chowder, and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are only accepted for groups of 5 or more people.

2

The restaurant automatically adds an 18% tip to the bill.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during busy holidays.

11
White Fence Farm image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers takeout only with huge portions and crispy fried chicken prepared through a special cooking process. Ambiance feels quaint and nostalgic, reminiscent of a grandmother's house. It stands out above fast food chains with a loyal following despite some changes in menu items.

Fried chicken stands out with its light and crunchy breading and stays tender and crispy. Sides like creamy coleslaw and kidney bean salad complement the meal well.

Fried fish stands out as delicious and outstanding here. The menu includes both shrimp and fish, with cod available to try next.

People are saying

"This American food's fried chicken is the best, juicy and tender."

"I thought the fried fish was outstanding."

"I thought the fish was outstanding."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers takeout only.

2

The typical chicken takes 13-15 minutes in the oil with the skin on.

3

The meal deal includes 1/2 a chicken with 2 sides and corn fritters.

12
Knights of Columbus 4400 image 1
Fraternal organization

Fraternal organization hall offers a working-class atmosphere with a staple cultural vibe of southwest Chicago. The space feels unpretentious and cozy, often crowded and a bit stuffy during busy times. It draws crowds for sports viewing of local teams, creating lively energy around game days.

Cod fish comes with a vinegar and oil-based coleslaw that stays true to its original recipe. Fried chicken also features on the menu, though the coleslaw can sometimes be over salted.

Cod fish stays consistent and flavorful after over three decades. Fish fry pairs well with a vinegar and oil-based coleslaw and offers a good, fresh taste without any off smells.

People are saying

"I've never had cod fish this delicious anywhere else."

"I always enjoyed their cod fish and coleslaw, a classic American Food."

"I've never had cod fish this delicious before."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times on Fish Fry Fridays due to high demand.

2

Prices have increased following recent remodeling.

3

The atmosphere can get stuffy during busy hours.

13
Al's Steak House Restaurant image 1

Old school steakhouse with curvy booths and classic mafia-style decor creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Lighting and tablecloth booths add to a legendary dining experience. The place attracts those seeking classic steakhouse vibes and family-friendly comfort.

Prime rib stands out for being perfectly cooked and the best cut available. The New York Strip and filet also come out cooked just right. The clam chowder ranks as exceptionally good.

Seafood shines with jumbo shrimp cooked perfectly in dishes like Shrimp Scampi and Shrimp Dejonge. Appetizers include impressive shrimp cocktail and stuffed mushrooms, all delivering excellent quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food was genuinely delicious and fresh."

"The American Food, especially the prime rib, was cooked perfectly."

"The seafood here is excellent and worth the price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like anniversaries and Christmas parties.

2

Menu options may be limited for those with gluten and dairy allergies.

3

The restaurant can accommodate large gatherings, including funeral lunches and birthday parties.

14
Jerk Flavors image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Jamaican restaurant offers carryout only service with comfortably plain atmosphere and amazing vibes. Food features phenomenal jerk chicken and tasty red beans and rice, with portions often enough for two. Spice levels can be strong, especially in rice and peas, which may not suit all tastes.

Mac and cheese and rice and beans serve as popular sides. Dishes include dark chicken, ribs, curry goat, and catfish, with sweet yams and plantains often accompanying meals.

Shrimp dishes stand out with shrimp tacos and jerk shrimp dinner offering bold flavors. Fish options include brown stew fish and a large, spicy jerk catfish taco.

People are saying

"The jerk chicken here is juicy and really flavorful."

"I love their American Food, especially the curry goat and mac and cheese."

"I loved the seafood tacos; they were so good I ate them all."

Good to know

1

Currently, Jerk Flavors is carryout only.

2

The wait time for food if I ordered at the counter was around 10 minutes.

3

The portions are enough for two people.

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Joliet, Illinois

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