Why This Chicago Tavern’s Fish And Chips Are Some Of The Most Famous In Illinois
I’ll never forget the first time I bit into that perfectly golden fish fillet at Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern, a Chicago institution that’s been around since 1932.
The crunch echoed through the cozy dining room, and I instantly understood why locals and tourists alike have been making pilgrimages here for nearly a century.
This isn’t just fish and chips—it’s a taste of Illinois history, served with warmth, pride, and a side of nostalgia.
A Chicago Tavern With A Storied Past
Walking through the doors of Twin Anchors feels like stepping into a time capsule filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and stories from generations past. The building once survived Prohibition, becoming one of the city’s first legal taverns when the ban was lifted in 1933.
Over the decades, this Old Town favorite has seen everyone from local factory workers celebrating payday to Hollywood legends stopping in for a meal. Even Frank Sinatra was a known fan, famously calling Twin Anchors’ ribs some of the best he’d ever had.
The wooden bar, creaky floors, and black-and-white photos along the walls all whisper the same story: this place has history—and it’s never lost its heart.
Where Old-School Charm Meets Classic Comfort Food
Twin Anchors has no need for modern gimmicks or flashy trends. The red-checkered tablecloths, old jukebox, and handwritten specials board say it all.
Here, food is made the way your grandparents would remember it—simple, hearty, and meant to make you feel good.
Servers greet regulars by name, and newcomers are treated like old friends. There’s no pretension, no iPad ordering system, and certainly no “deconstructed” plates—just honest food, cold drink, and a warm seat waiting for you.
The Secret Behind Those Golden, Crispy Fish Fillets
The fish and chips at Twin Anchors are the definition of consistency done right. The fillets arrive perfectly golden—crisp on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. Rumor has it that the batter recipe includes a splash of drink, but the exact formula is a closely guarded secret.
Each piece is fried to order, ensuring that unmistakable crunch that echoes through the dining room. It’s the kind of meal that makes conversation pause for a moment because everyone’s too busy enjoying it.
Fresh fish, balanced seasoning, and skill passed down through generations—it’s a simple recipe for perfection that’s somehow impossible to replicate elsewhere..
Hand-Cut Fries That Steal The Show
While the fish gets the spotlight, the fries deserve their own applause. Each potato is hand-cut into thick, irregular wedges, fried until the edges turn crisp and golden, and sprinkled with just the right amount of salt.
They arrive piping hot, their soft interiors steaming as you break them apart. Add a drizzle of malt vinegar for that authentic British pub feel—or ketchup if you insist. Either way, it’s comfort on a plate.
It’s hard to tell whether you’ll finish the fish or the fries first, but one thing’s certain—you’ll leave the plate spotless.
A Neighborhood Staple Since 1932
Staying open for nearly a century in the restaurant business is no small feat, but Twin Anchors makes it look effortless. Since opening during the Great Depression, the tavern has survived wars, recessions, and waves of culinary trends without ever losing its core identity.
Generations of Chicagoans have passed through these doors—grandparents who once scraped together coins for a meal now bring their grandchildren to continue the tradition. That’s not just loyalty; it’s legacy.
Each new owner has honored the same mission: keep the recipes, the warmth, and the laughter alive. That’s why the place still feels like home, even if it’s your first visit.
More Than Just Fish: Ribs, Burgers, And Tavern Favorites
Sure, the fish and chips might bring you in, but the rest of the menu will make you stay. Twin Anchors is world-famous for its barbecue ribs—tender, smoky, and slathered in a signature “Zesty” or “Prohibition” sauce that keeps fans coming back for decades.
The burgers are thick and juicy, grilled just right, and the buns hold up beautifully to all the flavorful toppings. Even the onion rings and coleslaw are made from scratch, with the kind of attention to detail that chain restaurants can only dream of.
It’s comfort food at its purest form—unpretentious, satisfying, and steeped in history.
Why Locals And Tourists Keep Coming Back
Chicagoans are notoriously loyal when it comes to food, and Twin Anchors is a prime example of why. Locals know exactly what to expect here: friendly service, hearty portions, and recipes that taste the same today as they did 50 years ago.
Prices remain refreshingly reasonable considering the quality and heritage, making it a place for everyone—from college students to retired regulars who’ve been coming since the 1960s.
It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience. There’s an unmistakable warmth in the air, a sense of belonging that can’t be faked or bought. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Chicago’s food scene is among the best in the country.
Plan Your Visit: Hours, Atmosphere, And What To Order First
You’ll find Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern at 1655 N. Sedgwick Street in Chicago’s Old Town, just a few blocks from the Lincoln Park Zoo.
The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and always buzzing with laughter. Weekends can get busy, so consider arriving early or grabbing a seat at the bar for the full experience.
Start with the legendary fish and chips, then treat yourself to a half rack of ribs and a cold local drink. Bring cash if you like, though they accept cards, and don’t forget to tip generously—the staff here are as much a part of the history as the recipes themselves.