Illinois may be landlocked, but that has never stopped its residents from obsessing over seriously fresh, seriously delicious seafood. Across Illinois, small seafood counters and roadside fish stands keep traditions alive with recipes that rarely change and portions that never feel stingy.
I have gone out of my way more than once for a paper sack of hot fried fish that perfumed the entire car ride home. These places run on routine and reputation, built slowly through regular customers and word of mouth rather than advertising.
You will not find white tablecloths or elaborate menus here, just confident cooking and the kind of flavor that can reshape a weekend plan without much warning. Anyone who appreciates crisp batter, smoky fillets, and honest portions will understand exactly why these stops matter.
1. Calumet Fisheries – Chicago
Since 1928, Calumet Fisheries has been doing one thing better than almost anyone else in the country: smoking fish…