Haire’s Gulf Shrimp is a Black-owned, women-led seafood restaurant in Chicago specializing in Louisiana-style fried shrimp, traditional South Side flavors, and family recipes passed down through generations. With locations in Greater Grand Crossing and the South Loop, the restaurant continues a culinary legacy that began in the early 1980s.

Founded by Finnie Haire, the business started in a train caboose before becoming a neighborhood staple. Its signature fried shrimp recipe originated with Haire’s mother, affectionately known as Big Mama, whose approach to preparing shrimp became the foundation of the restaurant’s menu.

Fried shrimp is the centerpiece of Haire’s Gulf Shrimp. Customers can order the restaurant’s signature Shrimp Bomb Bags, featuring freshly fried shrimp in individual portions or larger quantities for sharing. Shrimp dinners are also available, served with coleslaw and a choice of fries or spaghetti.

The menu emphasizes a straightforward approach to seafood, allowing the restaurant’s signature seasoning and preparation to take center stage. Customers can pair their shrimp with cocktail sauce or hot sauce, along with traditional sides such as spaghetti, fries, and coleslaw.

The South Loop location also offers a shrimp po’ boy sandwich, providing another way to enjoy the restaurant’s signature seafood.

Beyond everyday takeout, Haire’s Gulf Shrimp provides catering for corporate gatherings, celebrations, and community events. Larger shrimp pans are available for group orders, and the business operates a food truck that brings its Louisiana-style seafood to events throughout Chicago.

With decades of family history and strong South Side roots, Haire’s Gulf Shrimp offers Chicago residents and visitors a taste of traditional fried shrimp, local food culture, and a longstanding neighborhood culinary tradition.