Shrimp Island at 5358 W Grand Ave is a casual Chicago seafood favorite built around hand-breaded, golden-fried classics. The focused menu ranges from regular and jumbo shrimp to catfish, fish chips, scallops, smelt, clam strips, and frog legs, rounded out by sides such as fries, mozzarella sticks, fried mushrooms, okra, corn fritters, potato salad, and macaroni salad, plus beverages. The restaurant says its seafood is prepared with quality ingredients and time-tested recipes, with an emphasis on fresh, crispy results. Current online menus place many half-pound seafood portions around $6-$12, while larger one-pound orders generally run about $15-$27, offering flexible portions for individual meals or sharing. Fried Regular Shrimp and Jumbo Shrimp are standout bestsellers, while catfish, fish chips, and scallops add plenty of variety. The cooking style favors crisp breading against tender, juicy seafood, especially when paired with the house sauce. Vegetarian diners can turn to meat-free sides, but dedicated gluten-free or health-focused entrées are not clearly advertised. The approachable portions and familiar sides can work well for children. With service beginning around 11 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday, Shrimp Island is geared toward lunch, dinner, quick takeout, and casual group meals rather than breakfast.
Menu Highlights
Fried Regular Shrimp - A signature favorite featuring tender shrimp beneath a crisp, golden coating. Available in several portion sizes, it is one of the restaurant’s most frequently ordered choices.
Fried Jumbo Shrimp - Plump jumbo shrimp are hand-breaded and fried for a crunchy exterior and juicy center. Their generous size and classic preparation make them one of Shrimp Island’s defining specialties.
Fried Catfish - Flaky catfish receives a light batter before being fried until golden and crisp. Its mild seafood flavor and satisfying texture make it an appealing alternative to shrimp.
Fried Fish Chips - A straightforward comfort-food favorite with crisp battered fish and a tender interior. It is among the menu’s popular seafood staples and works especially well as a quick lunch or dinner.
Fried Scallops - Naturally sweet, succulent scallops contrast beautifully with their crisp fried shell. This richer seafood option stands out for its delicate center and satisfying crunch.
Fried Frog Legs - A more adventurous house specialty, fried until crisp while retaining a tender interior. It offers something distinctive for diners ready to explore beyond traditional shrimp and fish.
Mozzarella Sticks - Crisp outside and warm, cheesy inside, these familiar favorites provide a crowd-friendly break from seafood. They are particularly suited to sharing or adding to a family-style order.
