The vibe: One of our go-to spots for seafood downtown, Shaw's Crab House has been a Chicago classic since opening in 1984. Choose from two seating experiences: the traditional white-tablecloth–equipped dining room or the lively oyster bar
The food: You'll want to order a few things here—suck down bivalves, crack open crab claws and dunk lobster tails in butter for the full experience. The menu also includes a terrific lobster roll, bound up with the barest hint of mayo, and sushi and sashimi.
The drinks: Pair your seafood feast with a local beer or a classic martini, which goes perfectly with oysters.
Time Out tip: For a more casual experience, reserve a spot in the old-school oyster bar, where you'll find coworkers mingling over after-work drinks, visiting professionals grabbing oysters at the bar and small groups catching up at a high-top over a shrimp cocktail.