Shark’s Fish & Chicken is a renowned Chicago-based eatery specializing in authentic Chicago-style seafood and fried chicken. The brand has built a loyal following by combining bold flavors with generous portions and a community-driven atmosphere.
From crispy fried fish to perfectly seasoned chicken and a variety of classic sides, Shark’s offers a menu designed to satisfy cravings and celebrate Midwestern culinary traditions. The Chicago style is evident not just in their cooking but also in the hearty, no-nonsense approach to comfort food.
Menu Overview
The menu at Shark’s Fish & Chicken is crafted to provide a wide array of options, balancing seafood lovers’ desires with those who prefer well-seasoned fried chicken. Whether dining in, ordering takeout, or grabbing a quick bite, customers will find selections that cater to all tastes and appetites.
Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and signature seasonings that reflect the bold flavors Chicagoans appreciate. The menu is divided into key categories including Fish, Chicken, Combos, Sides, and Beverages.
Fish Selections
Fish is the cornerstone of Shark’s menu. The signature Chicago-style preparation means crispy, golden breading with a flavorful seasoning blend that complements the natural taste of the fish.
Shark’s offers multiple fish options, each cooked to perfection.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago-Style Fried Cod | Fresh Atlantic cod, hand-breaded with Shark’s secret seasoning, fried to a crispy golden brown. | $10.99 |
| Catfish Fillet | Delicate catfish fillet, seasoned and fried crispy, served with tartar sauce. | $11.49 |
| Fish Sandwich | Crispy fried fish filet on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. | $8.99 |
| Fish Platter | Two pieces of fried fish served with fries, coleslaw, and hush puppies. | $15.99 |
| Grilled Salmon (Limited) | Fresh salmon grilled with herbs and spices, topped with lemon butter sauce. | $14.99 |
“The cod at Shark’s is unlike any other – crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside, and seasoned just right. It’s a Chicago staple done right.” – Local Food Blogger
Chicken Offerings
Shark’s is equally famous for its fried chicken, which is seasoned with a Chicago-style blend of spices and cooked to juicy perfection. Customers can choose from wings, tenders, or classic chicken pieces, each with the option of mild, hot, or extra spicy.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Original Fried Chicken (2 pieces) | Two pieces of crispy fried chicken with Shark’s signature seasoning. | $7.99 |
| Chicken Wings (6 pcs) | Wings tossed in choice of mild, hot, or extra spicy sauce. | $9.49 |
| Chicken Tenders (3 pcs) | Hand-breaded tenders served with your choice of dipping sauce. | $8.99 |
| Family Chicken Pack (12 pcs) | A dozen pieces of mixed fried chicken, perfect for sharing. | $24.99 |
| Spicy Chicken Sandwich | Crispy chicken breast with spicy mayo, lettuce, and pickles on a toasted bun. | $9.49 |
“The wings are perfectly sauced and never greasy. Shark’s chicken is a must-try for anyone craving authentic Chicago fried chicken.” – Customer Review
Combo Meals
For those who want a little bit of everything, Shark’s offers combo meals that combine fish and chicken with classic sides. These options are designed to provide a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
| Combo | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fish & Wings Combo | One piece fried fish, 4 wings, fries, and coleslaw. | $14.99 |
| Chicken & Fish Platter | Two pieces fried chicken, one piece fried fish, fries, hush puppies, and coleslaw. | $18.99 |
| Tenders & Fries Combo | Three chicken tenders, fries, and a soft drink. | $11.49 |
| Family Feast Combo | Six pieces fried chicken, two pieces fried fish, large fries, coleslaw, 6 hush puppies. | $39.99 |
Sides & Extras
No Chicago-style meal is complete without classic sides. Shark’s offers a variety of traditional accompaniments that complement their main dishes perfectly.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| French Fries | Golden, crispy fries seasoned with salt. | $3.49 |
| Coleslaw | Classic creamy coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots. | $2.99 |
| Hush Puppies (6 pcs) | Deep-fried cornmeal balls, crispy outside and soft inside. | $4.49 |
| Mac & Cheese | Creamy baked macaroni with cheddar cheese sauce. | $4.99 |
| Onion Rings | Thick-cut onions battered and fried until golden. | $4.99 |
| Side Salad | Fresh greens with tomato, cucumber, and choice of dressing. | $3.99 |
“The hush puppies are the perfect balance of sweet and savory and pair beautifully with the fried fish.” – Food Enthusiast
Beverages
To accompany your meal, Shark’s Fish & Chicken offers a variety of beverages including soft drinks, iced tea, and bottled water. These beverages are perfect for refreshing the palate after a hearty meal.
| Beverage | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Soda (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite) | Choice of classic soft drinks, fountain style. | $1.99 (small) / $2.49 (large) |
| Iced Tea (Sweet or Unsweet) | Freshly brewed iced tea, served chilled. | $2.49 |
| Bottled Water | Pure spring water bottled for convenience. | $1.49 |
| Lemonade | Freshly squeezed lemonade, sweet and tangy. | $2.99 |
Specialty Sauces & Dips
Shark’s provides a variety of house-made sauces and dips that elevate the flavor profile of their dishes. These sauces are perfect for wings, tenders, and even their fish selections.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Buffalo | Classic hot wing sauce with a buttery finish. | $0.75 |
| Garlic Parmesan | Creamy sauce with roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese. | $0.75 |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy mustard-based dip. | $0.75 |
| BBQ Sauce | Smoky and sweet barbecue sauce. | $0.75 |
| Tartar Sauce | Classic creamy sauce with pickles and herbs. | $0.75 |
About Chicago Style at Shark’s
Chicago style cooking has a rich heritage rooted in bold, comforting, and straightforward food. Shark’s Fish & Chicken embraces this tradition by using tried-and-true cooking methods combined with signature seasoning blends.
The hallmark of Chicago style fish is a flaky white fish, often cod or catfish, coated in a crunchy breading seasoned with a balance of herbs, spices, and a hint of heat. Similarly, the chicken is marinated and fried to be juicy on the inside with a crispy exterior.
“Chicago style means big portions, bold flavors, and food that fills your soul as much as your stomach. Shark’s nails this perfectly.” – Culinary Historian
In addition to the food, Shark’s atmosphere carries the spirit of Chicago—warm, welcoming, and unpretentious. The menu reflects the city’s diverse palate while honoring its deep culinary roots.
Ordering & Availability
Shark’s Fish & Chicken offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options to accommodate busy lifestyles. Their menu items are consistently fresh and prepared to order, ensuring every meal meets quality expectations.
Specialty items, such as the grilled salmon, are available in limited quantities and may not be offered every day. Customers are encouraged to check with their local Shark’s location for daily availability and any seasonal specials.
Family packs and large combos are perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply a hearty meal at home. Many customers appreciate the option to customize spice levels and sauces when placing their order.
Customer Favorites
Some dishes consistently stand out as fan favorites, earning rave reviews and repeat orders. The following items are among the most popular at Shark’s Fish & Chicken:
- Chicago-Style Fried Cod: The signature dish loved for its crispy coating and tender fish.
- Chicken Wings: Sauced to perfection with options to suit every spice tolerance.
- Fish & Wings Combo: The best of both worlds, perfect for those who can’t decide.
- Hush Puppies: A classic Southern side with a Chicago twist, praised for their perfect texture.
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich: A handheld favorite with a bold kick.
“I come here every week just for the wings and hush puppies – it’s my Chicago comfort food fix!” – Regular Patron
Final Thoughts on Shark’s Fish & Chicken Chicago Style Menu
Shark’s Fish & Chicken offers a menu that is a tribute to Chicago’s love for hearty, flavorful food. Each item is thoughtfully prepared to balance tradition with quality, offering an authentic taste experience.
Whether one is craving perfectly fried fish, spicy chicken, or classic sides, Shark’s menu has something to satisfy every palate. Their dedication to Chicago style cooking makes every meal memorable and satisfying.
Experience the bold flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and generous portions that have made Shark’s Fish & Chicken a Chicago favorite.