Bob Chinn's Crab House

From Citysearch

The Disney World of seafood restaurants lies just 30 miles outside of Chicago.

The Scene
Fasten your seat belt for one of the most stimulating dining experiences in Chicago. No two nights are the same inside this 650-seat Wheeling establishment, which is consistently one of the highest-grossing restaurants in the country. Employing 350 people, from oyster shuckers to highly trained waitstaff, this is a well-oiled operation. The come-as-you-are clientele illustrates a comfortable, albeit hectic environment.

The Food
A mind-boggling daily menu of fresh flown-in seafood features rarities like flaky Hawaiian onaga and melt-in-your-mouth Florida stone crab claws, served on signature plastic plates with flatware from Target. Go easy on Chinn's delicious garlic rolls, which complement every meal. Recommended appetizer: Miniature garlic blue crab claws are a delicacy, as is the thick and creamy--perhaps Chicago's best--clam chowder. Must-have entrees include Hawaiian ahi tuna, served rare on a sizzling platter of sauteed onions, and sweet and tender"Red" King crab legs, Chinn's most popular item.

Insider Tips
Signature mai tais are popular and potent, and Chinn's serves 850 of them daily. And you can take the cup home.

Chinn's doesn't take reservations on Saturdays; call ahead to put your name on the "preferred seating" list, which will cut your wait in half.

Monday to Thursday, 3:30pm-6pm and 9pm-close, order a drink in the bar and grab a burger, wings, fish kebabs, a half-dozen oysters or clams, and more for just $1.95.