Streeterville, Chicago's vibrant neighborhood, offers a delightful culinary scene, and clam chowder takes center stage for many seafood lovers. This guide explores 14 of the best spots to savor this creamy, comforting classic, helping you navigate the diverse options and find your perfect bowl. We'll delve into what makes each location unique, considering factors like clam quality, broth style (creamy vs. Manhattan), and overall dining experience.
Creamy Delights: The Top 5 Creamy Clam Chowders in Streeterville
Creamy clam chowder reigns supreme for many, offering a rich and satisfying experience. Here are five Streeterville establishments known for their exceptional creamy versions:
1. RPM Italian: Elevated Elegance
RPM Italian provides a sophisticated ambiance alongside its expertly crafted clam chowder. They use fresh, high-quality clams, resulting in a rich, velvety texture. The broth is subtly seasoned, allowing the natural clam flavor to shine. Their service is impeccable, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Key Features: Upscale atmosphere, premium ingredients, impeccable service.
2. The Purple Pig: Mediterranean Twist
The Purple Pig offers a unique twist on clam chowder, incorporating Mediterranean influences into their recipe. This results in a creamy chowder with subtle herbaceous notes and a bright acidity that cuts through the richness. It's a perfect example of how a classic can be innovatively reimagined.
Key Features: Mediterranean fusion, unique flavor profile, vibrant atmosphere.
3. Shaw's Crab House: Classic Coastal Charm
Shaw's Crab House, a Chicago institution, delivers a classic, comforting creamy clam chowder. Their recipe is straightforward, focusing on the quality of the clams and the creaminess of the broth. It's a reliable choice for those seeking a traditional, satisfying bowl.
Key Features: Traditional recipe, high-quality ingredients, reliable consistency.
4. Siena Tavern: Modern Italian Flair
Siena Tavern adds a modern Italian twist to its clam chowder. The creaminess is balanced by hints of garlic and herbs, creating a sophisticated and flavorful bowl. The portion size is generous, making it a worthwhile indulgence.
Key Features: Modern Italian twist, generous portions, flavorful broth.
5. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf: French-Inspired Indulgence
Bavette's Bar & Boeuf, known for its steakhouse ambiance, unexpectedly serves an outstanding creamy clam chowder. The French-inspired preparation results in a delicate, creamy soup with nuanced flavors. It's an unexpected delight in a sophisticated setting.
Key Features: Unexpected delight, French-inspired preparation, sophisticated atmosphere.
Manhattan Style: Exploring the City's Bold Clam Chowder
Manhattan-style clam chowder, with its tomato-based broth, offers a bolder, more assertive flavor profile. These Streeterville spots excel in this style:
6. The Capital Grille: A Refined Experience
The Capital Grille offers a refined take on Manhattan-style clam chowder. Their version features a rich, flavorful tomato broth, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the clams. The overall experience is upscale and sophisticated.
Key Features: Refined presentation, balanced flavors, sophisticated atmosphere.
7. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: Chicago Classic
Gibsons, a Chicago landmark, delivers a robust Manhattan-style clam chowder that embodies the city's culinary spirit. The tomato broth is deeply flavored, showcasing the boldness of this style. The generous portion is a testament to Chicago's generous spirit.
Key Features: Bold flavors, generous portions, Chicago culinary institution.
8. Harry Caray's Tavern: A Baseball-Themed Treat
Harry Caray's Tavern, while known for its baseball atmosphere, offers a surprisingly delicious Manhattan-style clam chowder. Its tomato-based broth is well-seasoned and flavorful. The casual setting adds to its charm.
Key Features: Casual atmosphere, flavorful broth, baseball-themed ambiance.
Beyond Creamy and Manhattan: Unique Clam Chowder Experiences
Streeterville's diverse culinary scene extends beyond the traditional creamy and Manhattan styles. These unique options add to the area’s culinary appeal:
9. North Pond: Seasonal Sophistication
North Pond frequently features unique seasonal clam chowder variations. Their creative approach incorporates fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in surprising and delightful combinations. Check their menu for the current offering!
Key Features: Seasonal variations, creative ingredients, upscale ambiance.
10. The Berghoff: Historic German Influence
The Berghoff, a Chicago institution, offers a unique take on clam chowder, reflecting its German heritage. This results in a hearty and flavorful soup, possibly with subtle Germanic influences.
Key Features: Historic setting, unique culinary heritage, hearty preparation.
11. Andros Taverna: A Mediterranean Delight
Andros Taverna offers a Mediterranean-inspired clam chowder that incorporates fresh herbs and spices, creating a unique and refreshing flavor profile. It’s a lighter, brighter take on the classic.
Key Features: Mediterranean flair, light and refreshing, unique flavor profile.
Finding Your Perfect Bowl: Factors to Consider
Choosing the perfect clam chowder depends on individual preferences. Consider these factors:
- Broth Style: Do you prefer the richness of creamy or the boldness of Manhattan?
- Clam Quality: Look for restaurants known for using fresh, high-quality clams.
- Atmosphere: What kind of dining experience are you seeking – upscale, casual, or somewhere in between?
- Seasonality: Seasonal clam chowders often highlight fresh, local ingredients.
Conclusion: Your Streeterville Clam Chowder Adventure Awaits
Streeterville's diverse culinary landscape offers a treasure trove of clam chowder options. Whether you crave a classic creamy bowl, a bold Manhattan-style, or a unique seasonal creation, this guide provides a starting point for your culinary adventure. Explore, savor, and discover your perfect bowl of clam chowder in this vibrant Chicago neighborhood!
