You’re walking down Wacker Drive, the wind is whipping off the river—as it always does—and you need a place that doesn't feel like another sterile corporate cafeteria. That’s usually when people find themselves at Catch 35 in Chicago. It’s been sitting on the ground floor of the Leo Burnett Building since 1990. Think about that. In a city where restaurants open and vanish in the blink of an eye, this place has survived three decades of food trends. It saw the rise of molecular gastronomy, the kale craze, and the obsession with small plates. It just kept serving Chilean Sea Bass.
People kind of sleep on it because it isn’t the "trendy" spot of the week on TikTok. But honestly? That’s why it works. It’s consistent. It’s the kind of place where you know the sourdough bread is going to be warm and the jazz is going to be live.
The Reality of Catch 35 in Chicago Right Now
There was a lot of noise recently about the restaurant closing. If you’ve heard those rumors, you’re not totally wrong. The owners did announce a closure for the Chicago location in late 2024, citing the struggle of post-pandemic foot traffic in the Loop. But here's the thing: it’s still a massive part of the city's culinary history. While the Naperville sister location is thriving, the Chicago spot at 35 W. Wacker Dr. has spent years as the unofficial headquarters for the "Mad Men" types of the advertising world.
The vibe is very much "upscale clubhouse."
You've got these tiered levels that go up into the mezzanine, making the room feel huge but also weirdly private. It’s got that dark wood, white tablecloth energy that makes you feel like you should be closing a deal or celebrating an anniversary. Or maybe just hiding from the rain with a glass of Napa Chardonnay.
What to Actually Eat (And What to Skip)
Let’s talk about the food. You aren't coming here for "fusion" nonsense. You’re here for the Szechuan Scallops. They’ve been on the menu forever. They’re basically famous at this point. They’ve got this kick that isn't overwhelming but stays with you.
- The Chilean Sea Bass: This is their "hero" dish. It comes with a Hawaiian ginger scallion sauce. It’s buttery. It’s flaky. It’s exactly what people want when they say they "want seafood."
- The Crab Cakes: These are mostly meat, very little filler. None of that bready, spongy stuff you get at cheaper joints.
- The Bread: Don't skip the sourdough. It’s reminiscent of the stuff you get in San Francisco.
- The "Yellow Fin Tuna": It’s seared perfectly, usually served with a bit of a crust.
Is it the cheapest meal in the Loop? Definitely not. But the $25 Lunch Trio is one of the better deals in the area. You get a starter, a main, and a dessert. It’s fast enough for a business lunch but feels way more civilized than a salad bowl from a chain.
The Jazz and the Theater Crowd
One of the coolest things about Catch 35 in Chicago is the Eric Hochberg Trio. They play live jazz in the bar area most nights. It changes the whole mood of the place. Instead of just a dining room, it feels like a lounge from a different era. You can sit at a high-top, grab a cocktail, and just listen.
It’s also the go-to for the theater crowd. If you’re seeing a show at the Cadillac Palace or the Goodman, this is where you go. They’re used to the "we have a curtain at 7:30" rush. They’ll get you in and out without making you feel like they’re shoveled you through a factory line.
Why the Location is Weirdly Perfect
It’s right across from the Riverwalk. In the summer, they opened a patio that gave you views of the "corn cob" buildings (Marina City). It’s a great spot for people-watching. You see the tourists, the lawyers, the creative directors from Leo Burnett, and the theater-goers all mixing in one spot.
Practical Insights for Your Visit
If you’re planning to go, keep a few things in mind. Parking in the Loop is a nightmare, but they have a deal with the garage at 181 N. Dearborn St. If you get your ticket validated at the restaurant, the price drops significantly—usually to around $12. That’s a steal for downtown Chicago.
Also, check the menu daily. They print it every morning based on what fresh fish was delivered. If the Halibut looks good that day, get the Halibut. They also do a solid "Surf & Turf" with Georges Bank Scallops if you aren't feeling 100% committed to the fish route.
Actionable Steps for Dining at Catch 35
- Check the Jazz Schedule: If you want the live music vibe, aim for a Tuesday through Saturday evening after 6:00 PM.
- Validate Your Parking: Don't forget to bring your ticket from the 181 N. Dearborn garage to the host stand.
- Ask About the Daily Catch: Since the menu is printed daily, the server usually knows exactly which fish arrived that morning and which is the standout.
- Join the Rewards Program: If you’re a local or work in the Loop, their "Great Rewards" program actually pays off if you eat there semi-regularly.
Whether you're there for the nostalgia of the old-school Loop or just want a piece of fish that hasn't been over-complicated, this place holds its own. It represents a specific era of Chicago dining—one that values service and consistency over being the loudest voice on social media.