Enjoy The Freshest Fried Fish At This One-Of-A-Kind Seafood Restaurant In Illinois

A perfectly cooked, flavorful piece of fish is a dish beloved by Americans from coast to coast. While the Midwest may not share a shore with an ocean, we do have the Great Lakes, tons of local fishing, and access to fresh seafood that rivals the coastal cities. For those who like to have the option of taking fresh fish home to prepare or getting it fresh-fried as you wait to pay, this old-school seafood market is the go-to place for the best fried fish in Chicago, Illinois.

The Fish Keg, located at 2233 W. Howard St., has been a seafood staple at the border of Chicago and Evanston since 1950.

Part fish market, part takeout spot, the family-owned establishment says it's now in its third generation of family ownership, and has an extended family with many longtime employees. Customers simply choose what they want from the counter and can either cook it at home, have it freshly fried, or enjoy it as a takeout meal.

Fresh perch, whitefish, catfish, walleye, and salmon are all regular offerings, plus King crab legs and lobster tails. The market also leans on time-tested family recipes for its homemade cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, and side salads.

And when we say the fish is fresh, it's like REALLY fresh. New items are flown in daily, and specialties like live clams and mussels can also be special ordered.

Its most popular dish is its incredible shrimp, which can be raw for cooking or cooked for cocktail dipping.

When fried, it's still hand-breaded with The Fish Keg's famous breading.

It comes out perfectly golden and bursting with flavor. Add a little squeeze of fresh lemon, get your fries, and add your dipping sauces to have the lunch of your life. Pro tip: Add some house-made coleslaw to get the real lakeside experience.

Fried clams, anyone?

Between its creamy sides, homemade sauces, fresh and fried fish, and amazing homemade seasonings, The Fish Keg has also become a favorite spot for dinner hosts to stock up on everything they need for a great meal.

Of course, these expert breaders also fry up an incredible chicken.

Do you think The Fish Keg has the best fried fish in Chicago, Illinois? What's your favorite thing to order there? Tell us in the comments! Plan your visit by checking out The Fish Keg website and The Fish Keg Facebook page. While you're in the area, you may want to check out some of the local scenery at this breathtaking local park, or schedule a tour of this historic landmark, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright!