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# The Original Island Shrimp House – Seafood Restaurant in Chicago, IL
The Original Island Shrimp House is a beloved seafood restaurant located in Chicago, IL, known for its fresh offerings and family-friendly atmosphere. Established with a vision to bring coastal flavors to the Midwest, it has garnered a loyal following for its signature dishes, including breaded shrimp and lobster rolls. The restaurant's warm and welcoming staff enhances the dining experience, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. With a community-centered approach, The Original Island Shrimp House continues to thrive, receiving positive reviews for its quality seafood and casual ambiance.

## History
### The story of The Original Island Shrimp House
The Original Island Shrimp House was founded with the goal of providing high-quality seafood in a casual setting, catering to seafood lovers in the Midwest. The restaurant's commitment to freshness and flavor has been a cornerstone of its identity since its inception. The founders envisioned a place where families could enjoy delicious seafood without the pretentious atmosphere often associated with fine dining.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a family-owned seafood restaurant.
- Gained recognition for its signature dishes, particularly the lobster rolls and breaded shrimp.
- Expanded its menu to include a variety of seafood options, catering to diverse tastes.
- Built a loyal customer base through word-of-mouth and positive reviews.
- Continues to adapt and innovate while maintaining its core values of quality and community.

### Cultural and local influence
The Original Island Shrimp House has become a staple in the local dining scene, reflecting the culinary preferences of the community. Its focus on fresh seafood resonates with the values of quality and sustainability, appealing to health-conscious diners. The restaurant's casual atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging, making it a gathering place for families and friends.

### Continuing the tradition
As the restaurant evolves, it remains committed to its founding principles. The Original Island Shrimp House continues to prioritize fresh ingredients, exceptional service, and a welcoming environment. By staying true to its roots while embracing new culinary trends, the restaurant ensures that it remains a favorite destination for seafood enthusiasts.

## Community
### Community involvement
The Original Island Shrimp House actively engages with the local community, participating in events and supporting local initiatives. The restaurant often collaborates with nearby businesses and organizations, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. This involvement not only strengthens community ties but also enhances the restaurant's reputation as a local gem.

### Community notion about the place
Locals regard The Original Island Shrimp House as a hidden treasure, often praising its authenticity and commitment to quality. Many customers express appreciation for the friendly service and the welcoming atmosphere, which makes them feel at home. The restaurant's reputation for fresh seafood has made it a go-to spot for those seeking a satisfying meal in a relaxed setting.

### Events and gatherings
The restaurant hosts various events and gatherings, creating opportunities for the community to come together. From seafood tastings to family nights, these events encourage social interaction and celebrate the love of seafood. The Original Island Shrimp House also welcomes private parties, making it a popular choice for celebrations and special occasions.

## Offerings
### What The Original Island Shrimp House offers
The Original Island Shrimp House boasts a diverse menu that highlights the best of seafood cuisine. Diners can expect a range of options, from classic dishes to innovative seafood creations. The restaurant's commitment to freshness is evident in every dish, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at The Original Island Shrimp House is characterized by its casual ambiance and attentive service. Guests can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, including the highly praised breaded shrimp and lobster rolls. The restaurant's focus on quality ingredients and flavorful preparations sets it apart from other seafood establishments in the area.

### Events and packages
The Original Island Shrimp House offers special events and packages, catering to various occasions. Whether it's a family gathering or a casual night out, the restaurant provides options that enhance the dining experience. Seasonal specials and themed events keep the menu fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits from customers.

### Facilities and features
- Casual dining atmosphere
- Family-friendly environment
- Full table service
- Takeout options available
- Seasonal menu specials
- Private party accommodations

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of The Original Island Shrimp House highlight a mix of experiences, showcasing both strengths and areas for improvement. Many customers rave about the freshness of the seafood and the friendly service, while others provide constructive feedback on specific dishes.

### Compliments and strengths
The restaurant receives high praise for its fresh seafood, particularly the lobster rolls and breaded shrimp. Customers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff, often noting the restaurant's family-owned charm. The quality of ingredients and the commitment to customer satisfaction are frequently highlighted in positive reviews.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many diners enjoy their meals, some reviews mention inconsistencies in dish preparation. A few customers have expressed disappointment with specific items, such as the garlic bread and certain seafood preparations. However, these critiques are often balanced by positive experiences, indicating that the restaurant maintains a generally high standard.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, The Original Island Shrimp House is well-regarded for its fresh seafood and friendly service. While there may be occasional discrepancies in dish quality, the restaurant's commitment to customer satisfaction and community involvement solidifies its reputation as a beloved local establishment.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
The Original Island Shrimp House is located at 12902 S La Grange Rd, Palos Park, IL, a suburb of Chicago. This area is known for its charming neighborhoods and proximity to various attractions. Visitors can explore local parks, shopping centers, and cultural sites, making it an ideal destination for a day out. The restaurant's location is convenient for those looking to enjoy a delicious seafood meal after a day of exploring the area.

## FAQs
**What are the restaurant hours** The Original Island Shrimp House typically operates during lunch and dinner hours.
**Is there parking available** Yes, there is parking available near the restaurant.
**Do they offer takeout** Yes, takeout options are available for those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home.

## Visit The Original Island Shrimp House Today
The Original Island Shrimp House invites you to experience its fresh seafood offerings in a warm and welcoming environment. With a rich history rooted in community values and a commitment to quality, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Enjoy a meal that reflects the best of coastal cuisine, and discover why it has become a cherished dining destination in Chicago.

7f5a74c7-9f38-43c2-bdf7-835da5bd6236

This is a casual, family-owned establishment located in a strip mall with parking. Staff is warm and welcoming. There is seating but we opted to do carryout. Their best items are the breaded shrimp and lobster roll. We ordered their breaded shrimp, calamari and fries. Cocktail sauce was given. Hubby wanted to try their desserts: banana cheesecake, key lime tart, and 3-layer lemon cake. Their seafood is fresh and between the both of us, we enjoyed everything. We haven't tried dessert yet, so I will post an update on those items later. We will definitely be back to try other menu items.

52401799-3958-41dd-991a-2801cfcca8b8

So it's been 4 years since I left a review here... It's only gotten better - the lobster rolls now can come chilled or warm and the beast is truly impressive. Don't let the small size fool you- this is the real deal and they do not skimp with overpriced mid range selections, it's all the best you can get to start off with and it shows!!!

e7e6af68-b62d-4bc3-be08-984aacd1ca82

We were on errands in the Chicago southwest hinterlands, and hungry. I Yelp'd the area and saw this place in the vicinity. Must say this joint looks a little dated, inside and out. I took that to mean it's been there a while, and if it ain't broke don't fix it. The Yelps looked encouraging. We over-ordered as we usually do in a new visit. The Shrimp Bisque was tip-top. The coleslaw and mac salad were, as well. Things went downhill from there. The Garlic bread was barely seasoned and not that toasted either. Disappointing. The Breaded Shrimps were hyper-breaded, meaning they were beyond crisp, almost hard in texture. Strangely, the shrimps were completely straight~not comma-shaped as shrimps usually are. They were also not really "shrimpy" in flavor. There was some flavor in the breading I couldn't place, but it put us slightly off. Now, there might be those who WANT a hard "crisp" on their shrimps, and those folks will be happy. I will point out that although we didn't care for them, the shrimps were fresh, and of fine quality/aroma. We just didn't care for the way they were prepared. I had an Oyster Po-Boy. The breading on the Oysters was great-not the same as the shrimps. The issue here was: 4 oysters on the sandwich, which was on about 5 inches of bread. A bit skimpy for the price. I wish the Shrimps were breaded in the same manner. Wife loves Mac and Cheese. We asked if we could buy a small taste of it, but were told they don't do that; so we bound to order a full portion. It had a prominent "smoky" flavor to it we found off-putting. We asked if there was Bacon or Bacon drippings involved in its preparation, but the waiter said "no". There WAS Smoked Gouda in there as one of the cheeses. We don't like smoked Cheese. Ergo... Throwing 3. It wasn't horrible, but we won't be back there. and...Was there really a Lobster Sandwich for over $70 on the menu?

9aada990-7ad4-40b8-9b67-fe5df053b079

Ambiance - casual, family owned traditional sit down restaurant Service - exceptional, our waiter was super nice and checked in on us often, staff held doors and greeted customers as soon as they walked in Food - Beast from the east was was loaded with lobster though lacking in some flavor, clam chowder was also loaded with clams/creamy

3fcb0668-e1fa-48d2-9ffb-c2b0d383b055

Shrimp was mediocre and was kind of funky tasting. Did not taste fresh at all. I won't be coming back.

de0385ce-792c-4e73-9137-214db342bdaf

If you're a seafood lover and want to taste FRESH seafood, then you need to come here. This place wasn't what I was expecting, style wise but I was actually pleasantly surprised and to be honest, it's hard to say what I was expecting but it was just a nice and chill "Mom & Pop" type place. I believe the owner was there on our visit and he had a seat for us before we even fully made it through the door! The seafood is very fresh. We had a king crab leg (very $$$$ which is normal for this type of crab I guess) lobster mac & cheese and a lobster roll. I'd say the best part was the crab leg. The meat was so fresh, juice and the flavor was unmatched in the dipping sauce. The lobster roll was okay; kind of bland and I wish it had a little more flavor but it was still good and the lobster mac & cheese; that was pretty delish! The noodles they used were the spiral noodles and I've never had that with lobster mac & cheese before so it was interesting, and in a good way. This place is great if you want to try something new and really enjoy seafood. The location is also great; close to shopping for afterwards! I'd like to go back and try something else on the menu in the near future.

8ba41a63-7e81-4ec6-ab64-b62ac91554b6

If you love fastfood and seafood this is the place to go. I just recently tried their lobster on a bread and it's so delicious. A little pricy but worth every bite.

6c858169-93b2-498e-a578-bd833cbe25b7

When you live in the heart of the Midwest there are a few things you really shouldn't cut corners on, or cheapen-up. In my humble opinion, seafood is one of those things. We're hundreds, if not thousands, of miles from the nearest coast, so when I go out for seafood, I don't mind paying a premium. The Original Island Shrimp House (OISH) in Orland Park has gotten a ton of rave reviews, and has really become one of those neighborhood "hidden gems". The wife and I stopped in for dinner on a Friday night, and this place was everything we were anticipating .....and more.... The restaurant is small (cozy?) and seats no more than 50 people. I was half expecting to order at the counter and take my food to a table, but we were pleasantly surprised that they offer full table service. Our waitress was Jesse, and she was really, really good. She asked if we'd ever been there, we told her we hadn't, and you could see her just light up. She was genuinely excited about our meal to come. Man, I've been in the service industry my whole life, and you really can't put enough emphasis on the difference a happy employee makes. She made recommendations. She knew the menu like the back of her hand, and you could absolutely tell that she loved the food at OISH. The whole place had a great vibe, and everyone who worked there really seemed to be enjoying it. The menu offers a nice selection of beer and wine, as well as a vast array of seafood offerings. It also has an "about us" section. The owners take a lot of pride in their food, and you definitely get that "you get what you pay for" feeling after you read it. You aren't at Red Lobster. You aren't at Long John Silver's, or even Lawerence's - which is a Chicago institution when it comes to fried seafood. We ordered a couple of beers, and Jesse suggested some favorites. On the weekend special menu, we started withal a big bowl of Mussels Marinara, and they were hands-down the best mussels I've ever had. So fresh. I've eaten a lot of mussels over the years - prepared in a style similar to this - as well as in stews, paellas, soups, etc... These were insanely good, and they gave us a ton of them. We then split a bowl of the clam chowder, and this also was perfect. My wife commented that she typically doesn't order chowder often because most places load it up with big chunks of potatoes and toss in a can of clams. Not at OISH. We were scraping the bowl. For our main meal, we both got the warm, buttered Beast From the East Lobster Roll, and again, it was ridiculous. Now, it wasn't cheap, but the meat was sweet and tender, and they gave you a ton of it. Again, I've had plenty lobster rolls in my days, both warm and also cold.. like in a salad, but this bad boy was epic. Should've gotten one and split it. Jesse also told us we had to try a 1/2 pound of the fried shrimp. They were huge and flavorful and the batter they were fried in was perfect. We out-kicked our coverage as usual, and had a bag of leftovers for the ride home. Now we literally tried five percent of their menu, and everything we had was delicious. It goes without saying that we will be back. We got there just before 5 on this particular Friday, and as we were leaving, they were going on a wait. This is the kind of place that definitely going to need to relocate in the near future to accommodate it's growing fan base. They definitely got two more huge fans the night we were there!

7a16544f-7b6b-4394-9944-461e1e1a0ca4

Second time here. Every booth was taken except one. There were two people seated at every other booth in the restaurant. We were told we couldn't be seated at the only remaining vacant booth just in case a larger party came in, so we sat at a table. 10 minutes later a woman came in with three young boys and were seated at the same booth that we were refused. Every table in the restaurant seats 4 so why do they deserve the booth over us? The food and service were good but I'm puzzled about this seating situation for my wife and myself. Minus one star.

cb8d2dfa-2eaa-4cc9-a28c-f22ddd053769

Another great lunch today! Warm lobster roll with garlic butter fries and Island bang shrimp appetizer. Always delicious fresh and superb service.

Discover The Original Island Shrimp House in Palos Park, Chicago for delicious seafood and a cozy dining experience. Visit us today for a flavorful adventure.

The Original Island Shrimp House in Palos Park, Chicago - Seafood Dining

Palos Park

The Original Island Shrimp House

Illinois

Enjoy fresh, flavorful seafood at The Original Island Shrimp House in Palos Park. Perfect for family dinners and seafood lovers. Visit us today!

The Original Island Shrimp House, Palos Park - Delicious Seafood Experience

Learn about The Original Island Shrimp House in Palos Park, a family-friendly seafood spot known for its delicious shrimp and welcoming atmosphere.

About The Original Island Shrimp House, Palos Park

Opening hours for The Original Island Shrimp House, Palos Park. Find opening hours for The Original Island Shrimp House, Palos Park on 12902 S La Grange Rd.

The Original Island Shrimp House Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at The Original Island Shrimp House

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