Foodie Site Names Illinois’ & Wisconsin’s Best Seafood Restaurant

I've got an friend who was born and raised out east along the Atlantic Ocean. He's mentioned several times over the years that he would never even consider ordering seafood from a restaurant in the Midwest because, in his words, "You people don't know anything about seafood, and your seafood is terrible!"

Did I mention that he's a bit of a snob when it comes to these things? I guess I don't have to because that quote says it all. And, he's wrong.

Great Midwestern seafood restaurants prove that seafood doesn’t have to be a coastal luxury. For many Americans, seafood is a beloved staple, with studies showing that nearly 73% enjoy it no matter where in the country they live, and over a third describe themselves as “seafood lovers.” Not everyone is a fan, though.  Around 37% of us actively dislike seafood, often citing texture or smell.

This piece is for those who fall into the "seafood lover" camp, and want to know where to go to get the good stuff.

An Outstanding All-Things-Food Website Just Took A Look At, And Made Some Judgements About, The Top Seafood Joints In Every State

That website is Mashed.com, and they know a thing or two about great places to eat and drink, no matter what your preferences might be.

Not having the time, space, or inclination to run down all 50 choices, let's take a look at the seafood spots in Illinois and Wisconsin that they've ranked as the best in either state.

Not surprisingly, Illinois' best seafood joint according to Mashed.com is in Chicago:

Mashed names Shaw’s Crab House in Chicago as Illinois’ seafood crown jewel. They call it a tried-and-true classic, with an oyster bar, crab dishes, lobster roll, fish & chips, and even sushi. There’s something for every seafood fan (or hesitant newcomer) in that menu.

In Wisconsin, Mashed puts the crown on Madison's Tempest Oyster Bar. They give them high marks for fresh oysters, seafood towers, and shrimp cocktail, especially during happy hour. Mashed says that it’s the kind of place that feels special, but doesn’t demand a coastal zip code.

While We're At It, Here Are Their Picks For Top Seafood Joints In Our Other Neighboring States

If you're heading to Iowa (which is even farther from an ocean than Illinois), Mashed says that you shouldn't miss a visit to Django in Des Moines. This upscale spot offers bouillabaisse, lobster spaghetti, and baked oysters. They recommend it as Iowa’s standout seafood destination.

In Indiana, you'll need to head to Indianapolis for Rick’s Café Boatyard, where they bring a waterfront feel (even without an ocean). Their Louisiana-style crab and shrimp dip, seared scallops, and wood-grilled mahi mahi have outstanding reviews.

And in Kentucky, Brendon’s Catch 23 in Louisville rounds out the list. Famous for their cioppino, surf-and-turf, seafood towers, and cornbread-crusted salmon. As an added bonus, their bar pours local bourbon, giving the meal a uniquely Kentuckian twist.