10 Best Fried Clams in New England
Seafood expert Mike Urban has sampled fried clams at more New England shacks than he can count. Here are his picks for the best fried clams in New England.
By Mike Urban|Aug 01 2022|
The “small” order of fried clams at Jim's Clam Shack in Falmouth, MA.
Photo Credit: Mike UrbanNew England fried clams were likely invented about one hundred years ago in Essex, Massachusetts, by Lawrence “Chubby” Woodman. Ever since then, thousands of New England eateries (especially the best clam shacks) have played with recipes and cooking methods in an attempt to come up with the best. Yankee contributor Mike Urban, author of Clam Shacks (Cider Mill Press, 2011), has sampled these tasty fried morsels at dozens of New England establishments. Here are his top ten places to get the best fried clams in New England!
10 Best Fried Clams in New England
Bagaduce Lunch | Brookville, ME
This understated food stand on Maine’s Blue Hill peninsula has been frying up seafood since the 1940s, and it shows in its perfectly cooked, locally sourced, fried whole-belly clams. The key to its success seems to lie in the simplicity and honesty of the cooking, with recipes dating back several decades. Seven years ago, the shack earned a James Beard Foundation America’s Classics award, a testament to the sincerity of its offerings — especially its fried clams.
The Clam Box | Ipswich, MA
This place still holds the crown for best fried clams in New England. Each hand-picked batch of clams initially goes through an evaporated-milk wash, followed by a coating of corn flour and white pastry flour, then is fried briefly once, then again until crisp and crunchy outside, firm and chewy inside. Add to this the twice-daily changing of the cooking oil, and you have a seemingly unbeatable formula for fried clams cooked up the way they should be.
J.T. Farnham’s Seafood and Grill | Essex, MA
The secret to Farnham’s enduring popularity among fried clam aficionados is its careful selection of fresh whole-belly clams and its combination of vegetable oil and animal fat in its deep fryers. The finished product comes out tender and flaky, chewy and crunchy all at the same time. Local sourcing from nearby fertile clam beds also helps.
Woodman’s of Essex | Essex, MA
The Woodman family claims that the fried clam was invented here nearly a century ago, and the Woodmans are still cooking them up to this day. Woodman’s success and longevity in the deep-fried clam world is largely due to the lard they use in their deep fryers. The clams are sweet, tender, and crunchy, and they come from local clam beds in Essex and Ipswich, considered by many to be the best in the world.
SEE MORE: Fried Clam Trivia
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
The Sandpiper | East Haven, CT
Across the street from East Haven’s scenic public beach and next to a wonderful public playscape for kids, this clean, modest restaurant is a diamond in the rough when it comes to fried clams. Lightly breaded and cooked in oil that’s frequently changed, the Sandpiper’s clams stand out for their sweetness, crunchiness, and overall full-clam flavor. Check this place out the next time you’re cruising the Connecticut shoreline for quality clams and other seafood.
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
Sea Basket | Wiscasset, ME
This clean, well-lit seafood shack serves up some excellent fried clams that are perfectly breaded and lightly fried for a satisfying crunchy texture with each bite. Using what they call a “convection” style of deep-frying, the outer portions of the clams are quickly seared at a high temperature, preventing them from absorbing the cooking oil. The end result is crispy, puffy fried clam perfection.
The Clam Shack | Kennebunk, ME
Though it is best known for having one of the best lobster rolls in Maine, the namesake fried clams here are also excellent. The clams are from nearby waters, very lightly breaded, and cooked in super-clean, frequently changed cooking oil for a sweet, crunchy taste and texture. Kennebunkport resident and former First Lady Barbara Bush declares these to be the best fried clams in the world. Who can argue with that?
SEE MORE: The Clam Shack | Kennebunk, Maine
Blount Clam Shack | Warren, RI
Housed in a couple of snappy, dark-blue trailers by the tidal Warren River in eastern Rhode Island, Blount is known as an outstanding purveyor of clam chowder, both through its shacks and its institutional-size gourmet food operation nearby. But the fried clams at the shack are not to be missed. They’re chewy, they’re sweet, and they’re hand-selected from the voluminous amount of clams that Blount Fine Foods receives on a daily basis. Be sure to also order some award-winning chowder while you’re there.
SEE MORE: Brown’s Lobster Pound | The Best Lobster Roll in NH?
Lenny and Joe’s Fish Tale | Madison, CT
The fried clams at Lenny and Joe’s are crispy, sweet, and perfectly fried every time — something that similarly large, longstanding seafood shacks have a more difficult time doing. Each order of fried clams is quickly immersed in a succession of two fryers for quick, clean cooking that keeps the clams crunchy and free of lingering cooking oil. These remain the fried clams of choice on the Connecticut shoreline.
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
Jim’s Clam Shack | Falmouth, MA
This tiny, weathered wood shack shares dock space with small ferryboats and schooners shuttling folks to and from nearby Martha’s Vineyard. The fried clams here are the best on Cape Cod, due to the freshness of the clams and the love and care owner Jim Murray puts into their preparation and cooking. Be sure to grab a picnic table out back to enjoy the comings and goings of the boats in the small harbor.
What tops your list for where to find the best fried clams in New England? (Or maybe steamed clams are more your style?)
This post was first published in 2015 and has been updated.
SEE MORE:
The 10 Best Lobster Rolls in New England
The 10 Best Fried Clams in Maine
Fried Clams | Bellies Vs. Strips
10 Best Clam Shacks in New England
You’ve done it again, Mike! What a great list! Can’t wait to try the places I haven’t been yet…
Thanks, Aimee! I’m looking forward to seeing how the Yankee audience responds to these picks!
I am partial to Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery Maine
Disclosure I do not like fried clams but my hubsband loves them. We have been to many of these establishments as well as many others. His very favorite is Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery Maine.
I really don’t understand the attraction of The Clam Box, my husband and I went there after seeing the lines and rave reviews. It was decidedly disappointing – the seafood was bland and the oil tasted old and very heavy.
The Beach Plum should have made this list too – it’s been the best we’ve experienced in our three-ish years of living here.
I guess who ever put this list together has never been to Kelly’s. They are number one on my list and don’t forget to try their roast beef, the best !!!!
If you’ve never been to the Red Barn in Augusta Maine then you haven’t had good seafood. They have the best seafood all around.
Red Barn in Augusta , fried clams are a weekly drive worth taking from Mt.Vernon, also very partial to the “Sea Basket” and Ken’s
i ate at the clambox in ipswich once and the clams were ho-hum….best is ken’s seafood, scarborough, maine…batter or crumbs…fresh and sweet and delish…
Have you ever heard of teds fried clams in Emory mills/shapleigh, ME? It is incredible.
Yup, ate clams at Ted’s just a couple of weeks ago. They were GOOD!
Try Lena’s in Salisbury MA. I fly in from Louisville every year just for their fried clams. Absolutely the best I’ve ever ate from Maine to Florida.
You missed one… The Village, in Essex. In my book, best fried clams, best steamed clams, best authentic clam chowder and best Sicilian fish chowder.
WHERE??????????????
You’ve gotta add Tozier’s Restaurant in Bethel, VT! I grew up in coastal Maine (Lamoine), and never have I had such incredible whole-belly clams so far inland! Gotta check them out for next time!
We used to frequent Clam Box but now go to Ipswich Clambake just down the road. Hands down better than the clam box. So when all the people are standing in long lines at the Clambox, we drive by thinking how foolish are they standing in that long line. Ipswich Clambake is a hidden jewel.
It’s been years since I’ve had Ben there Weathervain Resreraunt Kittery Maine had the best seafood anywhere in Coastal Maine NH or Mass
Tony’s Clam Shop on Wollaston Beach has awesome clams too!
The locals do not eat at woodmans or the clambox. If ipswich is your destination I would recommend the choate bridge pub, but in essex the Blue Marlin gets my best of the best.
Check out Arthur and Pat ‘s in Marshfield. Excellent sea food and some of the best fried clams you’ll ever eat. It’s Steven Tyler’s favorite
You haven’t had melt in your mouth fried clam , until you go to Bayview Takeout on Beals Island Maine.. What they call Downeast Maine.. The town it a lobster fishing village.. Take Route 1.. turn on 187 head to Jonesport / Beals and cross the bridge.. It’s well worth the trip if your ever going that way.. Not only the clams, but all the seafood is great.. The portions are so large you have plenty left to take with you..
Hi Mike, My mother and father Harold and Lorraine Griffith used to own a clam shack in Scarborough, Maine on the Pine Point Road called Inabets back in the 1950’s. I was born there in 1952. It was on a corner and there was a huge pine grove in back of it with picnic tables so people could eat there. My dad used to hand cut the french fries and par cook them in the mornings so they would fry quicker to order. He also used corn flour and pastry flower for the dredge after dipping in whole milk. I have very fond memories of this place which is still in business today as Baileys. Great job!
You are bringing back my childhood. I used to go to a summer camp on Pine Point Road run by Volunteers of America. On weekends my parents would come and take me, my sister, and brother to the Saco Drive-In before they moved it and put in the K-mart. On Pine Point Road we would stop at either Ken’s Place or your place. Now it’s Bailey’s but there is also The Clambake I believe it is called down at the rotary leading to Old Orchard Beach. ALl three places have outstanding seafood.
Cabby Shack in Plymouth, MA. Best fried clams I’ve ever had, every time!
The list makes me want to cry ~ it highlights the fact that we have no really good clam places here in NYC! Fried clams in New England are THE best!
The only one I’ve been to is Cindy’s in Freeport, awesome! One down and nine to go!!!
I live in Stamford, Connecticut & at least twice each season, I make a day trip to Ipswich just to enjoy their fried clams. That’s a three & a half hour drive for me … each way. I realize this is all a matter of personal preference, but with the exception of a couple of spots over the years, no place comes remotely close to the Clam Box for me. There are times when I want whole-bellies but cannot make the trip, so I’ll settle for something a little closer knowing that it will not measure up.
I Havn”t been to New England in awhile but there is nothing better than clams in batter!
There’s a place outside of Uncasville Ct. Belly class are out of this world.
I’ve been to a the majority of these places and you are on point with your reviews…but gotta consider Ceals in Seabrook….in my humble opinion the best I’ve ever had…but it’s as primitive as at gets.
I ONLY COUNTED 6. WHAT ARE THE OTHER 4 ???? YOU ONLY MENTIONED 1 ON THE CAPE AND I KNOW OF A REALLY GOOD ONE IN DENNIS.
I don’t eat clams but my friends all day Bobs Clam Hut in Kittery Maine is best
No way! Bobs is overpriced and the servings are small. Good for tourists.
Mike, you must not have visited the Red Wing Diner, in Foxboro, MA – All my Fried Clam loving family & friends rave about the fried clams and the generous portions. It’s a “must visit” when in the area. –
Actually the Red Wing Diner is in Walpole, not Foxboro. Prices have gone up and portions down.
Clam Shack in Falmouth is my first stop when I come home! The Limberakis family are GREAT!
I used to be one of their first customers each opening season, Now I am in Seattle and it is top of my list of what I miss the most on the Cape…doesn’t hurt that the Schooner Liberte is at the corner!
I am so longing to have some New England fried clams and a very big lobster roll. I love living here in Florida but when it comes to food, especially seafood, they just don’t know good seafood nor how to prepare it.
I miss Maine!!! wha wha………
You are preaching to the choir! I love living in Florida also, but the seafood is nothing to write home about. I miss NE and the fresh fish,especially fried clams. We did find one place in Venice that has Ipswich clams and they are really good. Lefty’s West Coast Seafood on 41. We go at least once a month or so. Can’t beat NE for seafood.
If you are in the Venice, try the Twin Lobster on Placida Rd, near Lemon Bay Golf Club. Mainers who have their own operation in Portland and fly and truck down lobsters, clams, oysters and great fish daily. Closed in September but reopen in Oct.
I guess you haven’t tried fried whole belly clams at Schmengees pool hall and lounge Lincoln Street, Lewiston, Maine. The best I’ve tasted.
Hi Doris,
The other four are on the second page. You can navigate to that page by clicking on “next page” at the bottom of the article.
I agree with the list of the ones I’ve tried. I’d also add Essex Seafood and Kream N’ Kone in West Dennis!
Hi Brian-
Thanks for your response. I know the place you’re talking about. It’s just up the road from Ken’s Place. Sounds heavenly! It must have been lots of fun growing up in that environment. Thanks for sharing the memories. The next time I’m at Bailey’s, I’ll remember your note.
-Mike
Hi, Mike. My name, too. Anyhow, you comment about Bailey’s is right on. Ken’s Place has real good clams. It’s the second top clam place for me after Bob’s in Kittery. Just down the road from Bailey’s at the rotary is another seafood restaurant I believe is called The Clambake. It’s on the left just before you enter the rotary to go to Old Orchard Beach. It has good seafood also. I live in Florida now but every time I visit my sister in Eliot one of my first and last meals there has to be fried clams. Here in Florida most places have these things called clam strips. Talk about nothing food. Someone in this article mentioned a restaurant in Orlando. I guess I’ll have to try to find it so I can start enjoying fried clams here. I sure do miss my Maine fried clams.
Anyone try Evelyn’s in RI or the star drive in , east Taunton ma. Both excellent
Not only does the Beach Plum have delicious fried clams, they have the BEST Lobster Roll I’ve ever had in my entire life!!!
How about Cooke’s on Cape Cod? They always win the Cape Cod first place award. The batter is light and not greasy. There are three of them on Cape Cod – Hyannis, Mashpee and Orleans.
You are so very right! After living 15 years in Florida, I’m convinced no one would recognize fresh shellfish if it bit them on their nose.
Boy, do I miss the Cape! Fried clams and lobster everywhere. (Just a little homesick…….ya think?)
I grew up in Lawrence, MA and Salem, NH. After retiring from the
Air Force (31 years rank: Colonel) I settled in Montgomery, AL. I MISS fried clams more and more each day &
the clam strips in frozen foods just don’t cut it for a bonefide New Englander. Can you tell me where or how I
can purchase whole clams for frying? I know it would never be the same as New England but cooking is my
hobby and I can try to satisfy myself.
Bob Zannini
You can’t talk about fried clams without mentioning the Kreme N Kone in West Dennis MA. An institution since the 1950’s. And if you can’t make it to the Cape go to Ronnies in Auburn, MA. You won’t. Be disappointed.
Yes! Kreme N Kone in both Dennis and Chatham. Everything is so good I can’t pick clams over scallops over shrimp over fish over onion rings/fries!!!!!!
Obviously no one has been to the park lunch in Newburyport Massachusetts I’ve eaten clams everywhere Bob’s Lena’s the clam box Woodmans go to the park lunch you won’t be disappointed.
Red Wing Diner in Walpole, MA has the best fried clams in NE hands down!
http://redwingdiner.com/Menu.html
I was very happy to seat Brown’s in Seabrook made the list. I have been going there since I moved to dracut that was 40 years ago..there Awersome
I been going to browns the past fifteen years the food and service is great its a three hour trip for me
Hi Colonel, SFC Retired here. If you still have contacts in N.E. a lot of fish markets will ship using dry ice,alittle costly but worth it once in awhile. I did it for my Aunt in PA. Good luck hope this works for you.
Flo’s Clam shack Middletown RI. The clams are succulent!!!
Kelly’s on the beach, maybe, but definitely not the other locations.
I’ve been to several on the list, all terrific – but Sir Cricket’s in Orleans, MA is my favorite.
theres also Kellys in several north shore locations, and the old Bobs in Danvers, the strip are better than the “gut” ones
Preferring STRIPS is like preferring lobster LEGS.. not claws, LEGS
most of the seafood shops sell the clams, ya just have to batter them yourself, some even sell the batter mix too. legal seafoods, ohara’s connelleys around the glouster/beverly/salem area Iam sure theres lots of places to buy raw clams
Did you ever try Quito s In Bristol,R.I.???? If not ,you best come back to little Rhody. I’m not kidding,fried clamsw/bellies or without,clam cakes,light airy roll of clams and such great pasta seafood.
I wholeheartedly agree with Clare. Cooke’s fried clams are to die for. They definitely deserve inclusion in this list.
I agree about Ceal’s! Also recommend Bubbling Brook in Westwood Mass.
You missed a strong contender in an unlikely location: Captain Jack’s Roadside Shack in Easthampton Massachusetts. I’ve been to many shacks on the shore and none can beat the Captain’s whole belly clams. Plus he makes onion rings the right way-super thin. It’s a small consolation prize for living so far from the shore but we’ll take what we can get.
Another to add to list is JP’S Restaurant & Pub in Westborough. Awesome fried clams and lobster roll!
What restaurant or seafood shack do you consider to have the best fried clams in all of New England?
The BEST place for fried whole belly clams is Sea Swirl in Mystic, Ct. I grew up in Mystic and no where else compares. I live in RI and always stop by Sea Swirl at least once every summer. This summer so far I have been about 5 times already and the summer isn’t over yet! Love love love the whole belly clams there! Never overlooked and huge bellys!
Hello George…….Are you from South Hadley, Mass. My friend from College? I am looking to reconnect….Chris
My husband has tried many places for fried clams and his favorite is the Park Lunch in Newburyport, Ma
ditto
As a child in the 50’s I spent summers on the Maine coast, and on every trip we’d stop at El’s roadside shack in York. It was a tiny building with one pull-out in front and all they served were french fries and the best clams I’ve ever had in nearly 70 years. Now I’m in western Mass and make occasional trips to the Clam Box, 5 hours RT. I do love their special big belly clams, but the rest of the food is sub-par, so next time I’ll try Woodman’s or one of the others mentioned in the area. I occasionally go to Kimball’s in Jaffrey NH; the clams are good and their homemade ice cream is delicious. I thank the person who recommended Captain Jack’s in Easthampton, I will definitely try it!
El’s Fried Clams – definitely the best clams ever . . .YUM! Also, the haddock strips were delicious, too. Now, it’s the Clam Shack in Kennebunk Lower Village; Madeleine, my granddaughter, and I each get a lobster roll and share an order of clams. Have to have both!
The spot in Menemsha Marthas Vineyard makes my mouth water just thinking about it
The Bite in Menemsha, I go every time I’m on the vineyard.
Ditto John. I’ll be there next week. Great spot too! Giordano’s in Oak Bluffs is equally good. They were rated #2 and less oily.
Love Flos in Newport and Portsmouth RI
I agree! My first experience with fried whole belly clams was Flo’s in Newport, RI. After trying many other places, I still favor Flo’s. Perfect batter and fry. Sweet, juicy and tasty clams!
Hubby loves whole clams and best, most inexpensive place we have found is Larrys Clam Bar in Kingston, NH. Of course we fell in love with them at Woods on the pier in Plymouth way back when it was just a fish shack!
Jordan’s, Ellsworth, Maine
Bradford Junction, Bradford NH. Best fried full belly clams and their coleslaw is excellent. Good portions. Best part is Clams, Fries, Coleslaw, and homemade rolls made fresh daily only $7.95. Only downfall is they are only open till 2pm. They only take cash. So put a twenty in your pocket, eat there then take an order home for supper.
I’m originally from Castine, Maine, and a quick trip over to Bagaduce Lunch for Fried Clams was well worth the drive! Fabulous! Beautiful scenery and a nice place to eat outside! (Spelled Brooksville, by the way) Living in Punta Gorda, Florida, now, , where we have the Village Fish Market at Fishermen’s Village, they do a really good job with Fried Oysters and Clams among lots of other great seafood, always good and reliable. Nothing like fresh-dug clams in Maine, tho!
I find myself partial to Wood’s Seafood in Plymouth…Live in CO, but it’s always a stop (at least once) when I find myself in Massachusetts.
I have been throughout New Egland and have found that a place in Camp Ellis Maine, “Huot’s ” has the BEST fried clams! It is a little place that is hidden away and has been cooking since I was a little child. Great food, Great people. You won’t be disappointed.
Huots is the best, although I’m also partial to any of the fried clams near the Pier in Old Orchard Beach!
Wow, super surprised that Lena’s Seafood in Salisbury MA did not make the list – did you even visit them? And Brown’s??? super wrong – no local in a 15 mile radius eats fried clams at Brown’s???
Gave up on the ClamBox in Ipswich , been going to the Village Restaurant in Essex , clams are great! And if you seafood that is not all fried theirs is the best
You missed 2 excellent places for fried clams in Rhode Island….. Matunuck Oyster Bar in East Matunuck and Aunt Carries in Narragansett….
You need to find out where the clams come from. The Clam Box, Woodman’s Farnham’s all use clams from wherever they can get them, (maryland, maine etc. )only the Choate Bridge Pub serves Ipswich Clams. If they cannot get Ipswich Clams they won’t serve clams. Also best lobster roll no lines. Try it
My go to place when I’m home is Dubes, in Salem, MA. All the seafood is great here, but my favs are the whole belly clams……
missed one: Red Barn in Augusta, Maine.
When I lived on the North Shore just south of Salem Dube’s was my goto for fried seafood, especially the clams. It ranks up there with any Essex place.
I’ve had clams at 4 of the 10. All good but I’ll go with Dube’s in Salem. I live in Austin but Dube’s is always my first stop when visiting.
In the Salem area, Maddy’s in Marblehead used to be the best around, but it’s not what it used to be (if it’s even still there), and Dube’s is still very good. Head to Gloucester and try Causeway Seafood! (If you can get in) They stay open year-round.
I urge everyone to go to Woodman’s and the Clam Box, though, so my seasonal favorite (which I won’t divulge) won’t be crowded.
Inland?? Try capt. Jacks on rt 10 in Easthampton ma . All his seafood is fantastic.
The Village in Essex, MA, undoubtedly and indisputably , serves the best fried clams (and fried scallops) on the planet.
I agree, The Village in Essex has the best fried clams around. Plus you don’t have to wait in line like at Woodman’s, Farnhams, or the Clam Box. Consistently excellent for over 50 years.
Now you’ve really made me homesick! Summered in Gloucester every year; my favorite place! Introduced to Woodman’s when I was in diapers. SO hungry for clams!! There was a Clam Shack down near Cressy’s Beach, a little ice cream stand, that had the best Clam Rolls! They were there 10 years ago and still should be there.
You are thinking of the Cupboard. It is still. there and still good.
I grew up in New Bedford Mass, and Gene’s Seafood on RT 6 has the best belly clams in the area, by far. They have been there since RT 6 was the only road that led to the Cape, and still attract legions of fans that come off the hightway just to taste their great clams and fish and chips.
Cooke’s in Orleans are very definitely worth the trip from anywhere. Their fried clams, oysters, and scallops are all the best I have ever had.
You must try Crysanthi’s in Brookline, NH when in the area.
Sweet, tender, perfectly cooked full belly clams. Order with their delicious, crunchy onion rings also. Yum!!
While Lenny’s and Joe’s can be hit-or-miss, Westbrook Lobster Restaurant (down the road) has never failed.
Harry’s in Westborough, MA get’s my vote. I make it a point to go there every time I go to visit family.
My vote has to be Harry’s in Westborough, MA. Been around since 1946 and serves the best clams I have had anywhere. Make a point to go there every time I visit relatives, and never disappointed. I don’t know if I am thinking more about seeing relatives or eating clams during my drive up. And they are damn good relatives.
I know everyone has their favorites but I challenge anyone to sample the fried clams from Tony’s Clam Shop on Wollaston Beach in Quincy and then tell me they’ve had a better clam elsewhere!
We have been going to the Clam Box for many years, it is always excellent, cooked to perfection, can’t wait to go again. Other places are pretty good, but not consistent. Clam Box is unmistakably the best, and we are so lucky to have it year after year.
Sea Swirl in Mystic, Ct. has awesome whole belly fried clams
Yes! Sea Swirl is great! I’ve been going there since I was little and my great uncle had a boat at the marina down the street. I don’t live there now, but I try to get back to CT now and then and Sea Swirl is on the “must stop” list. I just get the clams – to add the fries and coleslaw is just way too much food.
The central house Westboro Ma the best????
Has anyone been to Bayley’s Seafood in Scarborough, ME or Billy’s Seafood & Roast Beef in Wakefield, MA? Both have great clam strips.
Clam strips don’t qualify
Clam strips should be banned
Clam strips are the Fredo Corleones of fried seafood.
Clam strips are to the clam, as Lobster swimmeretes are to the lobster.
We too love Ipswich Clambake! Great fresh clams and seafood. Be sure to try some of their grilled veggies alongside your clams – delicious! Another good spot for crunchy, light fried clams is Warrens in Kittery, ME. By the way Yvonne, we live in Kingston, NH and I’m sorry to say that Larry’s has closed after many years. It will be missed by many.
Try the Park Lunch in Newburyport. Give the fried scallops a try as well. Both are tremendous!
When traveling more in land – stop at Ronnie’s Seafood in Charlton, MA
BEST fried clams & scallops !!!
I live in Central MA and have frequented Ronnies for many years. They are not what they used to be. The freshness and service is not there and the “kids” overcook the clams.
Grew up near Red Wing- go to Clam Box in Ipswich and love them- Farnams is good also. Have to try the others!
I guess you haven’t tried The Clams at The Park Lunch In Newburyport?? I have tried most of the one’s you have posted, ?????? Go to the Park lunch, and try
Used to drive there from Maine about 6 times a year, always the same order. Not only are their clams great but I never got anything but the best shrimp, scallops and haddock. Alas, it’s now about 6 hours round trip, but I still go now and again.
Having been a fried clams connoisseur most of my 70 years and I have had them at most of the ones listed. There is one place I consider the best that most fried clam lovers don’t even know about. It’s known as The Sea Swirl in Mystic Connecticut. The best fried clams in New England in my opinion!
Yes! Sea Swirl rocks! My uncle had a boat that was kept just around the corner from here so I’ve been eating here since I was knee high to a grasshopper. Every time I go home to visit I make sure I stop by to get my fix. Virginia just doesn’t get it fried clam-wise.
Hi Mike Just happened to see review for fried clams, boy you are so right,,they are great there, only problem long lines. Definitely excellent spot. Would love some right now, how about it?
Everybody knows you gotta go to FLO’S!
Tha absolute BEST fried clams are at Top Dog in Rockport. The service is always great, everyone always friendly and cheerful. They also now have poutin, not exactly seafood, but Canada’s national dish and absolutely fantastic! The only problem is it is tiny; you often have to wait in line to get in and in bad weather you may not get a seat. Their food (including dozens of hot dog choices) is absolutely worth it!
Mike’s Clam Shack in Wells hands down the best around.
Moby Dick’s in Wellfleet , MA has the best fried clams-bellies, of course. It’s a fun place with semi-outdoor seating and inside seating. The owners are very hands-on and wiched friendly. Another plus is that it is a BYOB place-saves alot of $$. Highly recommended.
You forgot the” Clam Castle” in Madison Ct. Better than the driven in across the street by far
Love all these places. Live in GA now and let me tell you nobody knows fried seafood like New England. If anyone knows where I can order the clams and breading for the DIY’er please let me know as I don’t get back home as often as needed for my fried clam fix.
While Lenny and Joe’s are right up there…..just a good a whole belly clam can be had at Stowe’s in West Haven, CT. Not fancy, not big. Just big on good!!♥
I strongly agree$6 for a whole belly clam roll
Believe it or not—–you’ll find GREAT bellie clams in Orlando, Fl. At Boston’s Fish House, corner of Aloma and Forsith. As good as any I’ve had in N.E.
Bob’s Kittery ME been to many of the others but Bob’s is by far the best great clams , scallops even better I got there at least twice a month
Jordans Snack Bar in Ellsworth, Maine. The most perfectly fried clam I have found. Bagaduce has gone down hill and doesn’t deserve a spot on this list. Bob’s in Kittery is another that beats Bagaduce.
Bob’s Clam Hut…..Kittery, Maine……..There is NONE finer…..exactly the same for the 50 years I have been going. I order boxes…strip clams…butterfly shrimp…onion rings…….simply the best….never greasy.
Have to agree with you, Mickey. Bob’s in Kittery is the best, from another Bob in CT
Have been all over. Harry’s is good but bellies.too big. Browns good for steamers. Kream’n Kone in Dennis #2. # 1 is Weather Deck in w. Harwich. Hands down.
I’m surprised Donahue’s Clam Castle in Madison Ct didn’t make this list, Best whole bellies on the shoreline, sweet, perfect batter and never greasy
And their fried oysters and scallops are very good, too.
The Clam Box in Ipswich is the best and always will be !!!!!!!
Been to the Clam Box, Farnham’s Woodman’s, The Clam Shack, etc. and without a doubt, Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery is by far the best…Small portions? Never happened to me. Home made tartar and cocktail sauce…and always consistent in quality…
Living in CT within driving distance of all 3 Lenny & Joes is a lucky thing for this whole belly clam lover, but I want to give a shout out to another great place for great whole bellies, and this one in land locked Woodstock, VT, of all places. Nice to know that when I’m having a fried clam craving while hiking or biking or camping along the Ottauquechee River, I can find what I crave at the White Cottage, at the edge of Woodstock…theirs rival anything along the Coast…who knew?
Red Wing Diner in Walpole, MA Best fried clams and seafood anywhere hands down! My husband has been going there for over 50 years and I’ve been going there since we met in 2002. I have been to Clam Box and it was very good too. Guess we are gonna have to try the rest for comparison!
Pop’s Clam Shell in Alton Bay, NH. Best fried clams ever.
You may want to try Livingstones Deli and Seafood Restaurant in Billerica, MA. Great seafood. Fred has been doing seafood for years. Huge portions of fresh fish and shellfish. You won’t be dissapointed.
I grew up in MA and we always went to the Clam Box in Ipswich when we wanted good fried clams. Haven’t lived in New England in over 30 years, but when I want good (whole) fried clams I definitely go back to New England as some places think fried clams consist of just the neck!
Sadly, we had the worst clam experience of our lives last summer at the Clam Box. We’ve been eating clams there every summer for our whole lives (we’re not young!) and always enjoyed them, although we’ve always preferred JT Farnhams’s in Essex and Markey’s in Seabrook, NH is much tastier than Brown’s. The clams we got at the Clam Box in 2016 were extremely greasy and tough. Very disappointing, especially considering their lines get longer and prices seem to go up every summer. From now on we’ll stick to Farnham’s and Markey’s. Ceal’s in Seabrook is also quite good.
Does anyone remember Busy Bee’s in Danvers or Boxford MA I think , had the biggest seafood platter I’ve ever seen fed our whole family with fried lobster tail on top ????
Ceals in Seabrook NH has the best seafood in the area !!! It’s the place to go if you want great fried clams !!!
How about Essex Seafood…..it’s FRESH!!! And the way they fry their seafood keeps it light and extremely low on the grease. There is always plenty to eat!!!
CLAM CASTLE Madison Ct across the street from one of the top ten.Not only are the clams the best but the fun that comes with the folks behind the counter add to the experience
We like the Clam Castle and go there several times in the summer. Plenty of shade to eat outside, too.
What about the Clam Box on Wollaston Beach Quincy,Ma?The best taste AND best price around!
One of the best oceanfront seafood restaurants is on Ocean Boulevard in Rye, New Hampshire. This is Ray’s Seafood, just around the bend from Rye Harbor. Ray’s has been serving up first class New England seafood to multiple generations of local folks and summer visitors. The fried clams in particular are superb and the locally sourced seafood in general is exactly the first rate quality you would expect from restaurant owned and operated by several generations of lobstering folks !
Grew up in Mass. Had relatives in all NE states. Lived in Brunswick, for a yr. Moved to upstate N,Y. in 1959, Calif, in 1962 Haven’t had great fried clams except for occasional trips back. Last time was 2010. Reading the article My mouth was watering. My other love is clam cakes. Never had any since I left. People out of N.E. just don’t know how to make them. If I get to come back in the fall, my favorite time of year, of 2018 I plan on eating fried clams, clam cakes and lobster rolls as much as possible. We do have a new restruant in Encinitas, Ca. called Lobster West They make real N.E. Lobster rolls right down to the top split rolls and melted butter
Good to know, I live in SoCal now too
I have been eating fried whole belly clams all over New England for most of my 70 years, but I have never had any as good as I had last summer at the Liberal Cup, a delightful brewpub in Hallowell, ME. They had them as a special, and they were the lightest, sweetest, plumpest fried clams I have ever eaten. I got a second order because I knew I’d never see anything like them again. No tartar sauce, please, just a squeeze of lemon. Pure bliss.
Whatever happened to Bessie’s in Wareham? Grew up in Randolph, went to the Cape and always stopped for Clams and Fries. Here in NJ, I so miss real fried clams.
Bessies was the best around. We rented the cottage behind it each year and ate clams every night. I drove an hour afterwards and went there all year round. The old man Bessie was the one working kitchen with son, grand sons. After he died; son ran it awhile and then closed the Clam store and the Bessies marina tackle shop across the street. Bessies was in fact the best clams, scallops in Mass.
Any older folks here who remember Jerry’s Seafood in Yarmouth, Massachusetts back in the 1980s and earlier. Jerry’s was considered one of the best on the lower cape for fried clams.
Jerry’s is still there in West Yarmouth, MA on the Cape!! Yummy. My brother has a fish Market right down the street from Jerry’s. We would open fresh clams and take them to Jerry’s for him to fry them for us!! Doesn’t get any better than that!!
Old Saybrook Pizza Palace on Rt. 1 in Old Saybrook, CT. should be on the Top 10 list. Been going there for 30 yrs. , Great Fried Whole Bellies, Reasonable Priced, Huge sized order. Much better than Lenny & Joes ( Lenny & Joes does have Superb Cole Slaw Though, Best ever anywhere) and the Pizza Palace is also better than Johnny Ads for whole bellies. P.S. _ excellent Greek Style Pizza as well. As i now live in Fl. for past 8 yrs., always go the Pizza Palace at least 2 -3 times for clams every 2 yrs. when going back to CT. to visit. Chowder Pot in Hartford and Branford is also quite good for whole bellies. In Fl., 2 good spots for whole bellies, Essex House Two in Astor, FL. (outside of Ocala) _ there other restaurant is in Essex , MA. and Boston’s Fish House in Orlando. Boston’s Fish House in New Smyrna Beach was Excellent , but sold to new owners in 2014, and prices went way up, size of portions way down , quality still good but not worth the high price. Try old saybrook Pizza Palace in Ct., you will not be disapointed!!!!!
Yes Pizza Palace is very good! Lenny and Joes and Sandpiper in East Haven.
In Punta Gorda Florida it is The Fish House they serve whole bellies.
Also, LIAM’s on the Cape. expensive, but HUGE Belly Clams, may use Quohogs, but not chewy like Quohogs, but as tender and sweet as soft shell types.
I live in Vermont. We would rather make a 2 hour drive to Bob’s in Kittery, than a 15 minute drive to the White House in Woodstock. We have made the trip 2-3 times each summer for years. Super fried clams, scallops, lobster rolls ,onion rings. Long lines , but not long waits.
Agawam Dinner in Rowley (next door to Ipswich) is consistently amazing. Plus a zillion times more comfortable than the Clam Box.
I totally agree! The Agawam dinner is the best! I have had all the others listed in Massachusetts, but no place beats these! The best ever!
Love whole-belly clams, bring back memories in Old Orchard Beach ME (traveling with the family each year) , getting clams and fries in a box, setting on the rocks on the Atlantic and eating. Seems Clams were the best then, in the 50’s. Been to Woodsman’s, the inventor. Basic dining (paper plates & plastic) but nice. They cook clams / fries in Lard, makes a big diff. There in the 70’s a plate was $25, wonder what now? Whole belly is the only choice, those juices squirt in the mouth, so tasty, never forgotten. You can taste the salt air in them and the salt air and ocean crashing on shore adds to the taste, a very beautiful experience.
OK born in BOSATON, UH MANY years ago bot not as long as they have been fryinh whole belly clams and scallops at the RED WING DINER. Some 85 years plus now. It IS in Walpole, MA, just north of Gillette Stadium on RTE 1! (HMMM who plays there ?) 85 YRS>, MUST be dooin something right. Now live in FL (Orlando area) and there are now THREE veru good seafood restaurants within 35 MIN.
I live in Orlando also. Which three seafood places are you speaking of. Boston’s?Dixie Crossroads? Third one? I don’t want to miss anything.
Where is Bob’s of Kittery in this list? Their full belly clams are delish!
I agree. My sister lives just outside Kittery in Eliot. Every time I visit her one of the first places we eat at is Bob’s. The Weathervane almost across the street from it isn’t too bad either.
S.S. Lobster in Fitchburg is wonderful and now that I live in Florida we go to Lena’s Rt 40, near Ocala they have a New England connection or Essex House in Astor Fl. also connected to N.E. and both delicious
Clam box in Ipswich ma is a tourist trap, weighted for an hour in the hot sun! Clams had no flavor whatsoever. Fool me once, shame on you fool me twice, ain’t gone a happen
Agree! I’d put Essex Seafood as #1.
Agree!
Ipewich clams are suppossed to be the best, but as said previously, the Clam Box isn’t the best place to get them. The Clambake down the street is excellent, as is the Choate Bridge Pub. Tne Agawam diner in Rowley does them justice as well.
I love, love the Beach Plum but recently revisited the Lobster Boat Restaurant in Exeter, NH. One member of our party had the Fisherman’s Platter and shared some with us. Their onion rings are by far the best you will find anywhere! Hands Down! Also, all of their fried seafood is THE best!!. You’ll find their prices are a bit lower too.
Years ago, fried clams were plumper & tastier. Places now put too much crusty batter on them. I’ve given up on fried clams & have switched to scallops.
I often order fried oysters, which are more tender than fried clams and just as tasty.
I have sampled a lot of fried calms in New England and the best without a doubt is Bob’s in Kittery Maine. Here’s why. The clams are always, consistently the right size. They are small and delicious, There is nothing worse than an huge fried clam. I am surprised Bob’s is not on this list!
Brown’s has been my favorite to date. I have never had Bob’s Clam Hut or Lena’s Seafood of Salisbury, MA, which are both supposed to be outstanding. I am looking forward to trying them both. Lena’s has batter fried onion rings that are supposed to be outstanding, they are closed for the winter, and batter fried clams, which I have adored my entire life. Bob’s also makes lobster stew, which I also adore.
Arnold’s in Orleans, MA! Fantastic clams, scallops. They constantly recycle their oil so fried foods are always light. Drawback? Long lines and a little pricey, but worth every penny. Wish they were open year round
Agreed! Also Cooke’s in Hyannis and Orleans has fried clams with a delightfully crisp and light coating.
The best fried clams are generally the ones you”re eating at the time, with the bellys. The bellys have that unique taste that is absent from those surgically sterile strips. If you are too refined or cultured to experience the real deal, life must really be a struggle! The article should be retitled “The Best Fried Clams In Each New England State”. There are at least ten locations in my area alone that have superior fried clams and the only difference that makes one better than the other is portions to price!
Alas, Y’all who have access to Fried Clams should say a prayer every night! Out here in the middle of the desert* we’ve had some but much akin to Fake News. I don’t understand how Red Lobster can pride itself on those globs of batter they serve. As a young Lowellian way back when, there was nothing like strolling Hampton with a “box” until I finally made it to Woodman’s just a few years ago wherein I wet my pants with the all time mother of Strips! Alas, with all due respect to you as Human Beings…those of you into FC with bellies are sickos…Oooeee! *Alas, I’ve made my bed and must sleep in it: I’ve made a trade: the lack of FCs for non-muggy summers (ya, it’s a dry heat); able to sit evenings on the patio sans mosquitoes while enjoying 180 degree vistas of spectacular sunsets; no shoveling snow; fair taxes; not having to listen to rants of unwise politics in terms of what the State has become since way back when. Oh come on! Just Yankeeing your chains!
At risk of a fusillade of disparagement from whole belly aficionados, allow this preference for clam strips, popularized by Howard Johnson restaurants where a vanilla milkshake with side of HoJo’s sweet Ipswich clam strips was my standing snack order. (Hey, different strokes for different folks, right?) After weathering numerous rebuffs by huffy wait-staffs at restaurants where “WE ONLY SERVE WHOLE BELLY CLAMS!”… this business tip: By sticking to your whole-belly-or-nothing mantra you are missing out on business from clam strip lovers like me. And, given all the “best” fried clam ratings, let’s face it. Even the “best” of the “best” have their good and bad days.
Wife ONLY liked clam strips . . . while I LOVE the bellies!
I turned 1/2 my order into what she LOVED. GRHS!
Sullies @ Castle Island South Boston is the
place to go and come back to over and over again!
If you live near Plymouth, MA, The Lobster Hut and Woods Seafood next door are both places where you can get an excellent clam plate. On a par with many of the aforementioned shacks and restaurants.
have a place on saquish, Plymouth and visit the lobster hut and woods many times in the summer, both are great, looking forward to it very soon!!!
I have eaten fried clam strips all over Cape Cod and RI, but the best I
have eaten are at Captain’s Catch, Milford, CT, these use only fresh
oil so never oily taste or feel. They are delicious and we eat there often.
First off, most of you are dead wrong because anything but Atlantic whole belly clams from more southern New England is a waste of your time and eating pleasure. Maine clams are not good fried clams. Any roadside shack in Mass or even CT and RI puts all other fried clams to instant shame. No offense cause the opposite is just as true for Maine lobster — over all others. You cannot imitate greatness with a nice lite batter.
Quality and taste wise , Maine has the best clams.
The water off our coast is clean and cold , producing the best seafood in New England. With all due respect sir , your negative statement is bull —- .
I’m surprised there is only one “shout out” for Ted’s in Acton, ME. AWESOME fried clams!! Guess it’s a bit off the beaten path to be on anyone’s clam radar.
Dube’s in Salem MA has everyone beat for fried clams.
Dube’s is THE best ever. Family owned, reasonable prices, and always fried in clean, fresh oil, so their fried seafood is all light colored. Seafood platter is enormous!
Mac’s Seafood on Minot Avenue, Auburn, Maine has very good tasty fried clams
How can Farnum’s and Woodman’s be listed, but not the Blue Marlin (also in Essex)? It is FAR SUPERIOR to either one. Great bar, huge portions and a giant variety of entrees (besides awesome fried clams). The other two have none of this attributes. An outrage!
Glenwood Drive-In located on Whitney Avenue in Hamden, Ct. has the best fried whole belly clams I have ever tasted. Their lobster rolls are also a favorite, lobster on a grilled bun with melted butter. Absolutely awesome!
originally form mass and now live in Indiana I CRAVE seafood from back home and go every summer to Browns for lobster and steam clams, pizza at Trippolis in Salisbury beach, Seafood etc. for clam plates with scallops!! Foots use to be our place for big fat greasy heart attack batter covered deep fried onion rings!!!!!!! but they]re never open!! can’t find any like that now. their either the frozen kind like you get at burger king or they are the skinny strips (which we get because they are better then the burger king kind!!!)
You are killing me! New Englanders are never successfully transplanted. Living in New Mexico and no longer able to travel, I would accept anyone of those clam emporiums. I may never taste a whole body fried clam again. Still love HEARING about your favorites. On my way to Plymouth I used to stop at a clam shack on the road to Mystic. You could eat at a picnic table but I’d drive toward Mystic and have lunch with my three legged Beagle, Bedelu in a beautiful cemetery overlooking the water.
What a beautiful picture. We have several of friends who have three legged dogs and they are amazing
And they love fried clams?
I know exactly where you are referring to. I can’t think of the name right now! But it’s just a little hole-in-the-wall on the side of the road. I’ve been there a number of times. Right up the road from Olde Mistick Village and near the Seaport.
I grew up in Mystic and know exactly where you’re talking about. It’s just down from the Mystic Seaport. I once was hit by a car that was turning in to the little seafood shack!
A few people mentioned Bob’s in Kittery. I have to agree with them if not the best, it surely deserves to be in the top 10!!
Bob’s in Kittery, ME are probably the best for anyone who lives in the area, or who is traveling up the east coast of New England to points North. I’m originally from Mass…born raised and educated thru high school. I made many visits over the years, and returned permanently to Hampton Beach for 11 years. So, I have eaten at many of the clam houses spoken of in the article. My favorites have dwindled over the years (83), because someone decides whole belly clams needed a thick coating of flour, egg, milk, corn meal or what have you. So much so, one can barely detect what’s inside all that batter. A good clam should have a light coating, and fried in fresh oil or lard. And eaten asap. Don’t add any salt until you’re just ready to take that first delicious bite. It doesn’t need anything else, unless you are a lover of ketchup or mayonnaise. If either of those condiments have been sitting on a table for awhile, I suggest you pass, and move on. A few French fries are allowed if you’re that hungry, but just gorging on some deciously prepared clams is all you need. There is a place in downtown Hampton that can make clams that are out of this world, but I’ll refrain from giving the name, as it is ” hit or miss ” depending who is cooking that day. Since I no longer live in New England, as of 2017, and i can no longer drive, I am forced to give up my favorite seafood. I am now too far from the wonderful waters that breed such delectable varieties of fish, I have surrendered myself to salmon, flounder, cod, scallops, and crabs of the area. All good…but NO lobster or clams fit for a die hard New Englander.
All great choices. But you should refer to her as the late First Lady Barbara Bush.
Bagaduce is really good but another GREAT option in the area is the Cockatoo Restaurant in Stonington, ME.. so good..so fresh..& so clean! ?
Obviously you didn’t stop a Just Barbs in maine when you went to bagaduce cause they are the best ive had with bagaduce being a close second
Hingham Lobster Pound… that “secret” batter recipe, handed down through generations of ownership.
Totally agree that Hingham lobster pound are the best……
I have eaten at several of the places listed in this article… and all were very good. , but I have to agree… No list of BEST FRIED CLAMS is complete without mentioning HINGHAM LOBSTER POUND!!! Their clams are to die for, as well as the scallops, and their banana fritters— oh,and the onion rings too! 😉
Ray’s Seafood in Rye, NH.
Best fried clams EVER!!!
A lot of great fried clam shacks and restaurants. The question that is always a hot topic in New England is battered vs breaded clams. The eternal clam afficianados debate. Which one do you prefer? Mine is breaded.
You obviously missed Huot’s Seafood Restaurant in Camp Ellis, Saco Maine! Their onion rings are incredible as well.
Best place for quality and quantity is a place you would never imagine but Choate Bridge Pub in Ipswich, Mass so so yummy
At Dairy Joy in Weston Mass., believe it or not, I have had considerably better than some of the winners listed, esp Essex and nearby.
I grew up eating and working at Dairy Joy, the owner’s commitment to quality was exceptional.
Sorry, but Dairy Joy is a place to be avoided for clams – and for soft ice cream Been going there for years and some things are nice – they do attempt some gastro-pub style stuff, but overall, fails by a lot. And if you want the real soft icecream, go to a DQ, any DQ. (ps: I am affiliated with none of the above, but my wife is a gormet softie and I am a fanatic fried clam guy. For either, this is not your go-to.
Used to be Millie Mitchell’s in Mendon, MA. Gone now.
Building is still there, Janet, but now it is Alicante, a mediterranean restaurant now.
Huot’s in Camp Ellis, Maine has the best fried clams ever, fantastic onion rings, wonderful clam cakes and Friday night salmon pie.
As someone else posted Millie Mitchells in Mendon Ma used to have delicious fried clams went there when we were kids with our parents. in Florida now very hard to find new England clams really miss those days
Don’t know where you are located in Florida, but if you are anywhere near Pierson try Essex Seafood Two. The owners come from Essex, Ma and have their seafood flown in. Same recipe as Essex Seafood and they have great “steamas”
Millie Mitchell’s was awesome even thought the clams,fries were good the best part was the cole slaw! Haven’t had such good cole slaw anywhere since they closed about 40 years ago now ! Anyone know the recipe ? I remember it had poppey seeds in it and was an oli based slaw no mayo.
The Lobster Roll food truck in Arundel ME, US Rte 1, has incredible fried clams! Crunchy, whole bellied goodness! Try the scallops as well!
Yes Yes and best lobster rolls
\
Best around is Anthony’s Seafood in Middletown near Newport RI.
At $30 for a large order of just clams, it ain’t cheap but neither is perfection.
The tenderest strip and true whole belly flavor, not heavily breaded.
Just perfect.
Debbie and I are big fans of the fried clams at Huot’s Seafood Restaurant in Camp Ellis, Saco, Maine. Big portions, Good prices, eaten inside or out Back on the patio in the shade. The way life should be!
Huots Camp Ellis Saco me. Wish I had a couple quarts right now. The BEST.
Peter’s Summertime Seafood, Rye NH. The best in the area.
Agree….Love Petey’s Summertime in Rye Beach. Always get the Seafood platter, but the clams are always eaten first.
Lenny and Joes is a tourist trap…… sorry
agree food is average at best
Yes, was not happy with the fried clams here.
Totally agree that Lenny and Joe’s is a tourist trap. However, we had wonderful fried clams at a wonderful clam shack across the street from them a number of years ago. Forgot the name but the last I knew it was still there.
You might be thinking of the Clam Castle. Good food and not nearly as hectic as Lenny & Joe’s on the week end.
Clam Castle is soooo much better than Lenny & Joe’s – has been for years. I grew up in Madison Ct.
Ken’s on Pine Point Road in Scarborough ME — great lobster platters, too.
Yuk!
Ken’s clams are great, you must try the home made ta’ ta’ sauce
Lived in MA my whole life and worked at Hampton Beach in ’57 -’59! My sister and I used to go to Sunday’s every night for fried clams and a coke!! It cost a while $.55!! As an adult I now love Petey’s in Rye, NH. Been going there for several years! Delish!! Also closer to Chelmsford is one of the Kimball’s and their seafood is AWESOME!! Their lobster rolls and clam rolls are really good. Word has it that get their seafood from Essex, MA daily! Highly recommend, delicious!! And their ice cream is not too shabby!!!! Sooo goood!!
I agree that Kimball’s ( Lancaster) has the BEST fried clams!
Agree that Petey’s in Rye has the best fried clams, seafood platter, clam chowder, fried haddock, etc. We drive up to NH from MA just to eat there.
Yeah peteys is great but Essex seafood in Essex is awesome too
Next time your researchers attempt this kind of list for New England, don’t be afraid to send them over the Sagamore Bridge. Can’t believe Cape Cod did not appear anywhere on the list.
I agree and I live in Ipswich a mile from the Clam Box. Plenty of good Cape options as well.
I grew up in Topsfield, MA and live NH. I am a clam snob because the clams near Essex and Ipswich are the best! All clam deliveries to NH come from Ipswich Shellfish. I prefer the Clam Box on Route 1!
Falmouth is on Cape Cod
Spanky’s Clam Shack Hyannis. Generous portions clam chowder. Our yearly go to place
You obviously haven’t been to The Lobster Claw on main st in North Reading. Hands down the best fried clams around!! Park Linch in Newburyport is a very close second.. then maybe Agawam Diner.
Evelyns drive in Rhode Island ! Plus they have the best clear broth clam chowder which for us lactose intolerant people is so important They have outdoor seating too! I have taken the incredibly long drive from south shore Massachusetts and was not impressed with Woodmans.
The cupboard of Gloucester. Hands down. Always fried up perfectly the Hudson has been frying clams every day, every summer, for years. He has it down to a science. Will not disappoint
Jimmies in West Haven, CT. Have been going there many years. Best whole belly clams, and awesome tartar sauce.
Old77 years young born and raised in New Haven ct. will one of these amazing clam shacks overnight a lot of fried belly clams to me? I will pre pay. All they have in Arizona are clam strips! Not the proper flavor or texture. Please reply and tell me one of my bucket items can be fulfilled. Thank you in advance.
You’re best off contacting the sellers directly. You can look up the names online & go from there. Most little clam shacks won’t have that capacity, of course, & waiting for them to be delivered would not give you the freshly fried, crunch you’d want, & shipping charges could be quite costly. You’d need to get them delivered right away too. Don’t you have any seafood shops, or grocery stores with seafood departments near you? It’s best when you can see the size of the shucked clams, & ask to smell them. Ask them to either lightly steam them & toss with real butter – no fake hydrogenated corn oil heart attack goop they call Margarine, with some fresh lemon wedges, or ask them to fry them for you. I live in MA & Legal Seafood is a big, good quality company which will ship lobsters, chowder, etc, but it’s a big expense. We have thousands of seafood shops in New England, & all the grocery stores here sell raw & cooked seafoods. Many make chowders, or buy some good brands of clam or fish chowder online. I like to make my own. Hope you can find a way to get to Ipswich, MA to get your fill, one day.
I love Jimmy’s Went there when they were just a shack.
i hate to give up my secret, Erich’s clam shack, Marshfield Ma
Great list! I was Googling these restaurants to see the reviews and the list is good! When it comes to fried clams it’s about taste and texture. I happen to favor fried clams that nearly melt in your mouth. Flo’s Clam Shack across from Easton Beach in Middltown, RI has fried clams that nearly melt in your mouth! Google Flo’s Clam Shack, see the great photos, the menu and prices. The prices are high, but the location can’t be beat!
If your visiting Newport, RI for the day or weekend stop-by Flo’s across diagonally from Easton Beach!
Need to try the Red Wing Diner on Rt 1 in Walpole. Best fried seafood anywhere!
Without a shadow of a doubt! Had them there in the 1970’s and ’80’s. Have always wondered if they were still serving them.
Wrong
As I posted years ago, Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery still serves the best fried clams in New England. Their scallops, Maine shrimp, oysters, and haddock also excellent…
Surprisingly wasn’t on this list ! Since I was a kid we went to Rockland Maine and our first stop was Bobs !!!!!!
I totally agree!
Lee Circle Grocery On Wheels, in Lee NH, best fried clams on the planet!!!
I came from Acushnet Ma-does anyone remember a clam shack called Wimpy’s? This would be in the 50’s. It’s all in the clams & it’s gotta be ipswich clams. Small, tender, sweet & earthy. I’m in Clearwater Fl now & a new restaurant was advertising whole belly clams. Got them and they were using quahog clams which are so thick-we just used quahogs in soups or for baked clams. Awful. What I’d give for a great clam shack on Clearwater Beach. Perfect place.
Liz, I feel your pain! After living for 22 yrs in FL, we returned to RI. Yesterday, went to Evelyn’s in Tiverton, RI and had delicious fried clams! Sadly Evelyn’s not even mentioned in this piece. The only place we ever found any semblance of real fried clams was in Naples a few years ago. I think the transport costs would make it prohibitive for having a real clam shack in FL. Good excuse to make that trip north!!!
Liz, Try the Boston Fish House in New Smyrna Beach, FL. You won’t be disappointed, they fly them in every day from New England. Their whole belly fried clams are fantastic! Just like being in Maine or Ipswich.
Great food but pricy and crowded
That sounds disgusting using quahogs for fried clams big difference , There was a restaurant Foxboro Mass. that did that to me one they were like rubber bands
I live in Texas but learned to love fried clams as a student at UNH. When we go for our annual autumn visit, our first stop is always for fried clams (and chowder) at the Union Oyster House. Call it a tourist ripoff if you must but the food is good and it’s a welcoming start to a four-day seafood orgy. By the time we leave, you’re lucky if there’s a lobster left in New England. Thanks, Yanks!
Please use this full one. The earlier comment was sent too soon.
Would the people who recommended the Lobster Claw and Red Wing please mention the last time they were there?
Where is Erica’s in Harpswell. Maine. Family run business. On full ocean and the clams and lobster rolls are reasonable and very incredibly good.
Bethel, in land-locked Vermont, is the home of Tozier’s Restuarant! I have lived in the area for 50+ years and the clams consistently have been and are more than delicious! I don’t know who they buy them from, where they come from, but I do know they really know how to fry them! Find them on Route 107 in the center of Vermont, you won’t be disappointed.
Yes! They were always great.
Ditto
From all the comments it’s obvious that there are at least a hundred places in New England where you can get good fried clams. Enjoy!
I have a cookbook from 1904 that has a recipe for fried clams. Sorry Woodmans.
#1: Bob’s Clam Hut. #2 Everyone else…
Bobs…definately!,,,,
People from NH and Maine know that Bob’s is nothing but a tourist trap. You can travel a little up the road and get better quality food and pay a lot less. Any local know that the Kittery area is a tourist attraction.
What restaurant ships fried clams and lobster to California?
The Clam Shack, Kennebunk, Maine.
George’s Restaurant or Champlin’s Seafood. Galilee/Pt. Judith R.I.
Sandpiper Restaurant***** Five stars for the Best by Far, light golden clam strips. Equally as good are the French fries. Worth the 39+ mile trip.
Right across the street from the water in East Haven, CT. Great job guys. Thank you for a supburb lunch.
Kindly keep the Bagaduce Lunch as a local secret…please ?
For a “need to know”, never arrive at 5. It is the local time to dine with lines at the window.
Though we live only 10 minutes from the Bagaduce, it is the go to place for real fried clams , never “strips”( not to mention onion rings and crab rolls ). Even world class musicians from NY City, love the oversized fried haddock sandwich.
Don’t tell.
bob’s clam shack, kittery!
75 years with NO advertising Ceal’s Clam Stand
Seabrook Beach NH. Fresh seafood daily, homemade tarter sauce. 4 generations of women owned and operated business!
Ozzie’s Steak & Eggs, Hinsdale, MA.
oolala
I have never been to any of these restaurants, but you need to come Downeast to Perry, Maine to the New Friendly Restaurant. Robert Patterson cooks the best fried clams in either crumbs or batter and they are perfect! You can always get the combo platter with Haddock and scallops,too. It’s generous enough for two people! Absolutely delicious!
Red Hill Dari in Moultonborough, New Hampshire has great fried clams. Lightly breaded and crispy whole belly clams.
Sadly, The Clambox no longer belongs on this list. Farnhams is the runaway winner on the Northshore!
Left Coast seafood in Venice, Fla. closed for good after hurricane Ian, Kellys roast beef is opening 6 franchises in the Sarasota area soon….
Captain Frosty’s, Main Street (Rt 6A), Dennis MA