Chicken restaurants

JJ Fish & Chicken

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

5612 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60644, United States $10–20
3.8
760 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

Located on the bustling West Madison Street in Chicago, JJ Fish & Chicken serves as a beloved destination for those craving authentic Southern-style fried chicken and fresh seafood. This spot masterfully blends the best of a fast food restaurant and seafood market, promising a vibrant experience for lovers of crispy, flavorful comfort food.

The menu at JJ Fish & Chicken stands out with its generous portions and notable variety, making it easy to satisfy any appetite. For seafood enthusiasts, options such as the Large Catfish All Steak (five pieces of catfish served with fries and bread, $23.99) and the Large Jack Salmon (five pieces, $19.99) deliver tender, flaky fish with a perfectly seasoned crust. The range of catfish fillet pans—available in heat levels from extra mild to extra hot—is perfect for both spice lovers and those who enjoy a gentler touch.

The chicken offerings also shine with the same commitment to fresh, cooked-to-order quality that customers rave about. Crispy fried wings, juicy and tender, are a particular favorite, paired beautifully with crispy fries. Sauces add another layer of excitement—choose from housemade hot sauce infused with garlic and jalapenos or a mellow mild sauce with hints of barbecue and ketchup for dipping.

Dining at JJ Fish & Chicken reflects a casual, no-fuss environment where the focus remains on the food and friendly service. Customers often comment on the restaurant's cleanliness and the genuine warmth from the staff, making every visit feel welcoming and smooth.

Reviews highlight the impeccable service, with one customer praising the team for having their large chicken order ready exactly at the promised time, a rarity that speaks volumes about their efficiency and respect for customers. Another delighted guest noted the soft, delicious texture of their fish combo, ideal for family members of all ages.

Imagine biting into a golden crisp catfish fillet, its exterior perfectly crunchy giving way to tender, moist fish inside. Each piece is seasoned just right, whether dipped in mild or zesty hot sauce. The fries provide a satisfying crunch that pairs flawlessly, creating a comfort meal that both satisfies hunger and satiates the soul.

For anyone in Chicago’s West Side looking for a true taste of Southern fried fish and chicken, JJ Fish & Chicken is more than just a fast food stop—it’s a flavorful spot that honors tradition, serves with care, and leaves you craving your next visit.

Location: 5612 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60644
Phone: +1 773-261-3474

03 Notes from regulars

760 notes — the real pulse of the room.

3.8
Based on 760 verified notes
5 335
4 170
3 135
2 44
1 87
All Catfish Chicken Wings Busy Atmosphere Catfish Fillets Gyro Italian Beef Mild Sauce Fries Lemon Pepper Pizza Puffs
Newbreedc 313.
2 month ago
1st time at this location as I'm from out of town. The counter guy took my order all went smoothly. The food was very good. Fried wings and fries and 1 catfish filet.
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Tiberius Mays.
3 month ago
I purchased a fish combo of three catfish fillets and perch with fries, mild sauce, hot sauce and tater sauce. The fish was cooked soft for my mom. I really enjoyed the taste of the fish and fries. I left my phone there and was able to retrieve it after ten minutes had passed
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Taj B.
3 month ago
Called at 10am for a same day large order of chicken to be picked up at 12:30pm. Walked in at 12:25pm and my order was waiting. From the young lady who took the call to the gentleman who took the money, nothing but great, friendly service!!! Great customer service is hard to find these days. I would definitely spend my money here again!!!
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M Machelle Whiting.
4 month ago
The place is super clean and they cook your food to order. Enough said...oh, and it is good.
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Michael Jordan.
4 month ago
Everything on the menu is enjoyable. Service is outstanding. Italian Beefs make you wanna slap your momma
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Kathy Fair.
4 month ago
Went to this JJ for the first time. I usually go to a different. The customer service was great. The food was great. Inside was nice and clean. I am very happy I decided to come here. They have more varieties than the ones I use to go to. Hubby loved the double gyro cheeseburger..Found my new favorite JJ. Thank you!
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chad svastisalee.
5 month ago
Stopped in JJ Fish & Chicken for a few combos. Chicken wings and Catfish, Chicken wings and Tenders, combos come with two slices of white bread, fries and dipping sauces. The breading on catfish was crispy and tasty. The chicken comes dusted with lemon pepper and sides of BBQ and hot sauce. Recommend to ask for coleslaw or a tartar sauce for the fish as there was nothing to dip into The lobby is non descript and the bullet proof plexi is a bit daunting when stopping in. Luckily there is plenty of pull up parking, be sure to shut off vehicle and lock your doors even for a quick pickup.
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Sandra Gonzalez.
5 month ago
Amazing food early in the morning! As someone who works night shift and needs dinner food early in the morning this is definitely one of the best places to go. Great food and good prices
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Tuesday 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Wednesday 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Thursday (today) 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Friday 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Saturday 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Sunday 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Finding the door

5612 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60644, United States

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

Service options
  • No-contact delivery
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
Popular for
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • No Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
  • Comfort food
  • Late-night food
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
Dining options
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Counter service
  • Dessert
  • No Table service
Amenities
  • No Restroom
Atmosphere
  • Casual
  • Trendy
Crowd
  • Family-friendly
Planning
  • Usually a wait
  • No Accepts reservations
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
Children
  • Good for kids
  • Kids' menu
Parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
  • Parking
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