Brothers-in-law Sid Kotlick and Len Toll purchased the Calumet Fisheries in 1948 and created a restaurant that soon became famous for its oak-smoked seafood (including salmon steaks, trout, chubs, and shrimp) which is cured in a tiny smokehouse out back.  There's no seating, no bathroom, and no parking, and credit cards are not accepted.  It's strictly a carry-out operation, with the smoked shrimp and the smoked salmon being by far the biggest sellers.  In 2010, Calumet Fisheries (which is still owned by the Kotlick and Toll families) was one of five restaurants honored by the James Beard Foundation as an American classic.  To earn the award, the south side eatery demonstrated a timeless appeal and quality food reflecting the character of its community.

Incidentally, fans of the Blues Brothers may know that Jake and Elwood Blues, driving their second-hand police cruiser, pass directly in front of Calumet Fisheries as they accelerate and then hurdle the drawbridge over the Calumet River while "She Caught The Katy" blares in the background.  Photographs of the movie sequence are on display inside the red-roofed shack, along with other memorabilia.