Best Of 20 Tuna Restaurants In Chicago

3 min read 22-12-2024

Best Of 20 Tuna Restaurants In Chicago

Finding the perfect tuna dish in Chicago can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not, fellow seafood lovers! This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best tuna restaurants in the Windy City, offering a curated selection of 20 exceptional establishments. We’ve considered everything from the quality of the tuna itself to the creativity of the preparation and the overall dining experience. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the versatility and deliciousness of this prized fish.

Sashimi-Grade Standards: The Tuna Quality Matters

Before we dive into specific restaurants, let's talk about the importance of tuna quality. A truly great tuna dish starts with exceptional ingredients. Look for restaurants that source their tuna sustainably and responsibly. Sashimi-grade tuna is crucial – it means the fish has been meticulously handled, frozen properly (if applicable), and is free from parasites and harmful bacteria. Don’t hesitate to ask your server about the source of their tuna; a reputable restaurant will be happy to share this information.

Top 20 Tuna Restaurants in Chicago: A Diverse Culinary Landscape

This list represents a variety of styles and price points, ensuring there's a perfect tuna experience for everyone. We've organized it for easy navigation, highlighting standout features of each restaurant.

High-End Experiences:

  1. Sushi Wabi: Known for its impeccable omakase experience, Sushi Wabi often features exquisite tuna preparations, showcasing the chef's artistry and the fish's natural flavors. Expect to pay a premium, but the quality is unmatched.

  2. Oriole: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined tasting menu that frequently incorporates beautifully prepared tuna dishes, often highlighting seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques.

  3. SumiRobata: This upscale Japanese restaurant offers a stunning selection of meticulously prepared tuna dishes, from classic sushi and sashimi to creative robata grill preparations.

Mid-Range Delights:

  1. Momoya Sushi: A popular spot offering a diverse range of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes, Momoya consistently delivers high-quality tuna at a more accessible price point.

  2. Kuma's Corner: This isn't your typical sushi spot, but Kuma's creative takes on tuna burgers and sandwiches deserve a mention. Think gourmet tuna melts with unexpected flavor combinations.

  3. RPM Italian: This stylish Italian restaurant occasionally features tuna on its menu, often prepared with Mediterranean flair. Check their menu for seasonal offerings.

  4. Andros Taverna: While not solely focused on tuna, Andros Taverna's Mediterranean dishes often showcase fresh, high-quality tuna, prepared in traditional Greek style.

Casual & Fun:

  1. Catch 35: This lively seafood spot offers various tuna preparations, from simple but delicious tuna steaks to more elaborate dishes.

  2. Rosebud on Rush: Rosebud's extensive menu includes a variety of seafood options, and their tuna dishes are consistently praised for their freshness and flavorful preparation.

  3. Shaw's Crab House: A classic Chicago seafood institution, Shaw's offers a reliable selection of tuna dishes, often prepared simply to let the quality of the fish shine through.

Beyond the Expected:

  1. Monteverde: While known for its pasta, Monteverde sometimes features creative tuna dishes with unexpected flavor pairings.

  2. Girl & the Goat: This celebrated Stephanie Izard restaurant is known for its adventurous and globally inspired cuisine. Keep an eye out for their innovative tuna creations.

Hidden Gems:

  1. Sushi House West Loop: A local favorite, Sushi House West Loop offers excellent sushi at reasonable prices, including carefully sourced tuna.

  2. Doki Doki: This smaller spot might be tucked away, but it offers high-quality sushi and sashimi at a more intimate setting.

International Flavors:

  1. Lao Sze Chuan: This restaurant may not be known for its seafood, but they often feature imaginative Sichuan-inspired tuna dishes.

  2. Arami: Arama's pan-Asian menu sometimes incorporates tuna in unexpected and delicious ways.

Tuna Beyond Sushi:

  1. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: This steakhouse might surprise you with their high-quality tuna preparations, often offering unique and flavorful options beyond the typical sushi fare.

  2. RPM Steak: Similar to Bavette's, RPM Steak features well-prepared tuna, often as a luxurious addition to their steak-centric menu.

Budget-Friendly Options:

  1. Pequod's Pizza: Okay, it's not strictly a "tuna restaurant," but Pequod's occasionally offers creative tuna-topped pizzas that are surprisingly delicious and affordable.

  2. Local Fish Market: Buying fresh tuna from a reputable fish market and preparing it at home is another great option, allowing you to control the quality and preparation.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Tuna Spot

  • Price Range: Establishments range from high-end to budget-friendly.
  • Ambiance: From casual to upscale, choose the atmosphere that suits your preferences.
  • Cuisine Style: Explore options from classic sushi to innovative fusion.
  • Sustainability: Inquire about the sourcing of their tuna.

This list is a starting point for your Chicago tuna adventure. Be sure to check menus, make reservations (especially for popular spots), and enjoy the delicious variety of tuna experiences this city has to offer. Happy dining!

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