How should I defrost frozen seafood?

If it’s vacuum-packed, remove it from the packaging and thaw in the fridge for 12–24 hours. Use within five days. In a pinch, remove from packaging, seal in a bag, and submerge in very cold water until thawed. Always pat seafood dry after defrosting.

Should I brine my fish before cooking?

Brining can improve flavor and texture. Quick 6% brine: dissolve 5 Tbsp kosher/coarse salt in 2 quarts cold water; soak up to 12 minutes, then pat dry. Slow 4.7% brine: 2 Tbsp salt + 3 Tbsp white sugar in 1 quart cold water; soak 5–12 hours, rinse, and dry. Dry brine (cure): rub 1 Tbsp salt + 1/2 tsp sugar on the fillet; rest 10 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.

We might be! Every team member earns a living wage, receives a health care subsidy, and has access to a 401(k) with a 4% employer match. View open roles on Culinary Agents, or send your resume and a short note about why you want to join the crew.

Coming soon—we’re cooking, testing, and tweaking to make sure every recipe is worth your fish.

Should I be suspicious of farm-raised fish?

Not at all—quality depends on how seafood is raised or harvested. We partner with state-of-the-art mariculture operations that prioritize clean, responsible practices, monitor water quality and feed, and minimize environmental impact. Farm-raised fish can be fresher, consistent, parasite-free, and as flavorful as wild. We work with open-water pen systems and advanced closed/recirculating aquaculture systems, which reduce pressure on wild populations and support decarbonization. We offer both wild and farmed options and are always transparent about sourcing.

What does "ikejime" mean?

Ikejime is a traditional Japanese method that quickly and humanely ends brain and spinal activity, minimizing stress and lactic acid. The result is cleaner flavor, better texture, and longer-lasting freshness. The Fish Guy is proud to carry one of Chicagoland’s widest selections of ikejime-prepared fish.

Lunch to-go

Sandwiches Made-to-Order

served with house-Made slaw and your choice of Great Lakes Potato Chips

Available Tuesday-Saturday from 11AM-3PM.
In-store orders take ~15 minutes to prepare; please call ahead to avoid a wait.

A hand holding a lobster roll sandwich with lobster salad in a toasted bun

Lobster SALAD Roll — 17 each / 2 for 30

See what The Infatuation, The Party Cut, and other luminaries of Chicago food media rave about for the best price in town.

Salmon Burger — 14

Made in-house with our finest salmon, seared to order, finished with dill pickle slices and Green Goddess dressing, served on a brioche bun.

Crab Cake Sandwich — 14

Loaded with blue crab, pan-crisped to perfection, served with dill pickle slices, and finished with Green Goddess dressing.

Fresh Tuna Salad Roll — 14

Yellowfin from tuna butchered in-house, seasoned and chilled, served on a toasted roll.

Order Ahead - Call 773-283-7400