Shaw's Crab House is a Chicago staple. Its been in this city for a long time having been established in the 1980s. Now, I might be biased because I've frequented this restaurant since I was a child, but I think it's a great spot in the heart of the city. The moment you walk through the doors you are transported to another age, a bygone era that feels truly simple. You should know that while I've been to this restaurant a multitude of times, my husband's first experience was this evening. Walking up to the hostess podium we were greeted with a warm smile and a friendly welcome. Our reservation was promptly found and we were escorted to our table.The tables are covered with a white cloth and a red runner with the iconic crab logo adorning it. Given the age of this restaurant, things can feel a tad bit cramped, however, that vanishes once the menu arrives.
The menu is vast and while they do various meats, seafood is where this place shines. I, frankly, question why they bother doing anything else here!
Our first appetizer was oysters on the half-shell. If you haven't had this or are scared to try it, rest assured that this restaurant has amazing oysters that you won't regret trying. It was served on a lovely ice bed with a cocktail and horseradish mixture in the middle along with a squeeze of lemon.
Along side that we had the crab cake appetizer. The fluffy cake matched the freshness of the crab. It is a beautiful dish that deserves high praise. I think the only thing that could be made better in this restaurant is the service which tends to be slower and less attentive.
This restaurant also boasts a unique feature wherein they have very large tanks with all their glorious lobsters divided by weight. You can literally see your lobster and choose the one you want to eat. My husband, not being as deeply in love with lobster as me, ordered the King Crab legs whereas I...I ordered the 1.5lbs lobster.
One fun thing that is done, they always tie the bib around you so that all that melted butter doesn't get on your lovely clothes. It's a fun tradition and one worthwhile in order to prevent the evening from turning sour when you look upon your butter covered garment and slowly realize that you must throw your clothes out as a result.
The lobster here is absolutely stunning. Cooked to perfection with a side of lemon and a small dish of melted butter. You are given the tools you need to truly embark upon an amazing seafood experience. The lobster melts in your mouth, and the butter only enhances the sweetness of the meat. The only thing that could make this meal even grander? Dessert, and boy this restaurant doesn't disappoint in that area either!
We ordered a slice of the chocolate cake that was dense, rich and full of that chocolate goodness that people crave on a cold winter's day.
The ganache gives it a smooth texture matched only by the moistness of this cake. It truly was a memorable meal and one we will hopefully enjoy again in the near future!