10 Best Clam Shacks in New England
Summer in New England isn’t complete without enjoying some deep-fried seafood. Seafood expert Mike Urban picks the 10 best clam shacks in New England.
By Mike Urban|Jul 28 2022|
Coffee By Design | Portland, Maine
Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanSummer in New England isn’t complete without enjoying some deep-fried seafood at a dine-in-the-rough clam shack. Food and travel writer Mike Urban, author of Clam Shacks: The Ultimate Guide to New England’s Most Fantastic Seafood Eateries (Cider Mill Press, 2011) has been noshing at and writing about these iconic eateries for years. Here are his picks for the 10 best clam shacks in New England.
10 Best Clam Shacks in New England
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
The Clam Box | Ipswich, MA
This shack, located in a shingled building in Ipswich, Massachusetts, that resembles an open-topped clam box, is hands-down the best place for fried clams anywhere. Selected fresh from suppliers’ trucks each morning, the chosen clams are “washed” in evaporated milk, coated with cornflour and white pastry flour, then twice-fried for perfect taste and texture. The Box changes its cooking oil twice daily, ensuring an amazing deep-fried treat that never disappoints.
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
J. T. Farnham’s Seafood and Grill | Essex, MA
This modest roadhouse on Route 133 (also known as the “Clam Highway”) cooks its clams and other deep-fried seafood in a mixture of vegetable oil and animal fat, providing a major flavor boost to everything that comes out of the deep fryers. Also, be sure to try their “Best Seafood Chowder,” with its creamy, tomato-streaked broth that’s loaded with fresh clams, haddock, shrimp, sea scallops, and lobster.
Markey’s Lobster Pool | Seabrook, NH
One of two large seafood emporiums located at the gateway to Seabrook’s public beaches (the other is Brown’s, across the street), Markey’s is a rollicking, fun place with a large covered deck out back that hangs over the tidal Blackwater River. Owner Tom Markey presides over the deep fryers, and he cooks up some excellent clams, scallops, haddock, shrimp, and fried lobster. There’s also a monstrous fried seafood platter topped with two fried lobster tails.
Photo Credit : Brenda Darroch
The Clam Shack | Kennebunk, ME
Perhaps best known for owner Steve Kingston’s award-winning lobster roll, this diminutive shack, teetering on the edge of the Kennebunk River, also serves up amazing fried clams. Other taste treats at The Clam Shack include flavorful clam chowder and a light, crispy fried haddock sandwich.
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale | Madison, CT
This Connecticut shoreline institution, just up the road from Hammonasset Beach State Park, is a year-round seafood palace, serving up deep-fried platters of clams, scallops, shrimp, and wonderfully tasty scrod. Lighter fare in the form of grilled and broiled seafood and fresh, steamed lobster round out the menu. Their hot, buttered lobster roll is a Connecticut shoreline classic.
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
Bob’s Clam Hut | Kittery, ME
For years, Bob’s has been a must-stop on car trips to Maine, and with good reason. This year-round clam shack in Kittery (a second Portland location opened in 2018) offers up all the right stuff—fried clams, clam strips, scallops, shrimp, fish, and more, along with killer clam and fish chowders. This is also a great spot to have your first lobster roll upon arrival in the Pine Tree State. Among the numerous baskets, dinners, and plates, try the Clam 2 Ways combo—fried whole bellies done using Bob’s original recipe, and longtime cashier Lillian’s recipe, which calls for an egg wash before breading and frying.
More from Yankee: Bob’s Clam Hut | Local Flavor
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
Evelyn’s Drive In | Tiverton, RI
Serenity reigns at this clam shack nestled on the shores of Nanaquaket Pond in eastern Rhode Island. There’s a sign by the kitchen that reads: If You’re in a Hurry, You’re in the Wrong Place. Owners Jane and Domenic Bitto delight their customers with deep-fried seafood, excellent clear-broth clam chowder, light, fluffy clam cakes, and exotic lobster chow mein. Be sure to catch a sunset from the back patio while sipping a Newport Storm beer, glass of wine, or cocktail.
Photo Credit : Mike Urban
Woodman’s of Essex | Essex, MA
This is the place where, they say, the fried clam was invented nearly a hundred years ago. To many, Woodman’s is the gold standard for fried clams. The key to Woodman’s success and longevity in the deep-fried clam world is the lard they use in their deep fryers. Founder Lawrence “Chubby” Woodman used it back in 1916, and lard is still used today. 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. Don’t miss the batter-fried onion rings or the deep-fried lobster tail.
Five Islands Lobster Company | Georgetown, ME
This famous lobster place doubles as a clam shack, with its succulent fried clams and other deep-fried seafood. Try the locally sourced sea scallops and fried haddock sandwich. Also popular are the “Somewhat Famous” crab-cake sandwich and the grilled burger. Five Islands Lobster is situated on a large, wooden town dock overlooking lovely Sheepscot Bay and is serviced by numerous local fishing boats, so the seafood here is as fresh as can be.
Photo Credit : Aimee Tucker
Cobie’s Clam Shack | Brewster, MA
In the tony Cape Cod town of Brewster, there are several fine clam shacks, and Cobie’s is at the top of that list. Housed in a tastefully whitewashed shack at a bend in Route 6A, this place has heavenly fried clams, juicy burgers, thick milkshakes, and a great cold lobster roll made with knuckle meat only. The ice cream stand, with more than 30 flavors of hard and soft ice cream, makes for a great dessert or mid-afternoon snack spot.
Do you agree with Mike’s picks for best clam shacks in New England? Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
This post was first published in 2016 and has been updated.
SEE MORE:
Yankee‘s Great Lobster Roll Adventure
Fried Clams | Bellies vs. Strips
The Best Cape Cod Lobster Rolls
You forgot one of the Best if New England, Bob’s Clam Hut, Rt 1, Kittery Maine.
Too bad Flo’s in Middletown, RI didn’t make the list. 🙁 🙁
Can’t believe you missed the best one of all the legendary Dube’s on Jefferson Ave Salem, puts the others to shame….light and no grease
Can’t believe you missed the best one of all Dube’s on Jefferson Ave Salem
What do u consider the best fried clams! Some have lots of batter! Some are cooked to long! Some have tinny bellies! All on the list except one ! Cape Neddicks lobster Pound in the 70s large bellies the way I like them! Is there such a place anymore? I’ve been to almost all on the list! I’ll have to try Cobies in Brewster!
I agree, Les…Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery is definitely one of the best of New England!!!
ewwww. They are ALL disgusting.
Kreme and Kone……best on Cape Cod …..West Dennis
Blounts clam shack two locations in Rhode Island, Riverside at a historic carousel with a park and beach across the street the best white chowder and a full range of seafood including a fish ruben, and Warren on the water with the same great food great and a wonderful New England location on the working water front of a small town.
You only forgot one of the best, Essex Seafood!!!!!! Just as good as Woodman’s, if not better!!!!
How about Ubertis on Ferry Blvd. Stratford,Ct. ? Every thing so good, and, a fresh seafood store right in
the same place !
To take your order, & sit down at Bonds’ Dock is heaven.
I agree with Robbin, Essex Seafood! We were there again on Saturday, huge pile of light and crispy clams. BYOB too….shhhhhh! When in ME, Gurnet Trading Co. in Brunswick, you wont find fresher clams…typically dug that morning!
I would add an old favorite, Aunt Carrie’s in Narragansett, RI.
Yes! How could one skip Essex Seafood? Farnhams used to be great but heaven knows what the new recipe is for batter and deep at. Ick. LOVE Essex Seafood!
The ORIGINAL Flo’s in Portsmouth, RI is better still. Though I’m kinda disappointed they replaced their trademark painted rocks with glow-and-vibrate lobster. Way too Applebee’s for me.
My favorite has always been Champlin’s in Narrangansett, RI.
Disagree. Where’s Becky’s Dinah in Portland?! What about clam chowder?
The best clams in all of New England are the ones at Bob’s Clam Hut… Route 1 Kittery, Maine… It has been opened since 1956…
I am like Brown’s better than Markeys, they are better in my opinon
Ronnies in Auburn in Mass and Creme & Kone on rt 6 in Dennisport are de best!
I am sorry to say but I disagree with Evelyns I thought the fried clams were just awful I do not know how they made the list even the clam chowder and clamcakes were terrible…
Best is Silver Ranch, Jaffrey NH
These are our favorites:
Two Little Fish on Atlantic Ave in Westerly, RI
Pete’s Seafood in Greenfield, MA
Ocean Harvest, Keene, NH
I don’t agree with Woodman’s or Markey’s they used to be so good but the last summer I ate at Woodman’s twice and both times I got sick(Fried Clams the first time and Lobster the second time) Same as Markey’s I ate there 3 times last year and I got sick, went back again this year only a few weeks ago and got very sick!!! I ate at the Clam box several times and nothing as well as Bell Isle nothing happened! Dube’s in Salem is great as well as I thinks it’s Bob’s in Kittery!! Bon Appetite!!!
yup Essex Seafood the best.
Jake’s Seafood
Wells, ME
You certainly forgot one of the best, Reds Eats on Main Street, just before the bridge in Wiscasset, Maine. When you talk about Fried Clams always think Maine, all others are 2nd best.
A good list for people “from away.” But filled with the usual suspects, many well-deserved. Add to this list Mike’s Stand/Geary Bros in Putnam,CT. Not an obvious choice or a tourist trap, but those who know about it enjoy excellent fried seafood, simply and freshly prepared.
You missed The Red Barn, Augusta, ME.
Liam’s at Nauset Beach in Orleans!!! GREAT clams and you can eat them right on the beach. Does not get better than that!
yum! Reds eats! THats like the best in Maine!
Also Teds Fried Clams in Acton Maine!
Absolutely! Essex Seafood is excellent!
My all time favorite not listed on Thames river Fred shanntys,,,awesome!
Yes, indeed! Bob’s is the best, although they recently lost the best reason of all for going there and enjoying a half and half plate… she will be missed by all who knew her, and going there will never seem the same without her smile to greet you.
Agree, the fish and chips I’ve had there were overcooked, tried many times, always too well done.
You have to try Barlow’s Clam Shack in Bourne, MA. Right across from the Cape Cod Canal. THE BEST Fried Clams, Lobster Rolls and Onion Rings !!!!!
I agree Bob’s in Kittery is a great clam shack!
The Red Wing Diner on Rte. 1, Walpole, Ma., excellent also.
Sounds like you have a stomach issue. Woodmans is more atmosphere but still great food.
I second the vote for Two Little Fish in Westerly!
dube’s is good, but doesn’t hold a candle to clam box!!!
Woodman’s is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO overrated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Been there a handful of times to give it another chance…all set with that! Way too greasy, and just bland.
Clam box, hands down, absolute best!
Your all wrong . I make the best fried clam . Born and raised on the north shore . . Dig my own and cook my own … PRICELESS
Lena’s in Salisbury, MA is excellent. Batter fried, all nice and puffy. Check it out.
Great piece Yankee! Oxford Creamery, Mattapoisett, MA Kool Kone, Wareham, MA
You’re missing Kelly’s Roast Beef on Revere Beach, 5 miles from Logan Airport, ! BEST Fried Clams and Lobster Rolls in New England ! Roast Beef sandwiches make a great Surf & Turf Combo !!!
Jake’s without a doubt.
Al’s Seafood in North Hampton, NH Hands down better than anywhere in the northeast.
I went to the Red Wing a year ago specifically for the clams and was hugely disappointed. The place was cramped and noisy, and the clams were overcooked.
I agree. Browns is the best been going there once 1960
U forgot Cookes Seafood !!!!
Arnold’s in Eastham,Park Lunch in Amesbury
Definitely Dubes!!!!! They are the best!
The Causeway in Glouster
Yes sirree!
Great fried clams and great fish chowder
Hands down…#1 is the Clam Box in Ipswich..#2 Blue Marlin in Essex…and you can toss out Farnham’s altogether.
Has anyone been to Altonbay? Pop’s Clam Shell has been crankin’ out wicked pissa clams for almost like forever. A must stop every time I roll into the shire,lol. New Hampshire that is. As like most places it can be pricey, but the portions are most generous
Our first stop going into Maine from N Carolina ! Delicious ! Great service !
I totally agree with Kreme and Kone. The very best!
You have to include the Clam Box on Wollaston Beach in Quincy, MA…which is also the site of the original Howard Johnson’s stand.
I think they forgot about hanks dairy bar! Best seafood shack around !!! It’s in Plainfield ct
I gotta agree with Dube’s. Deep fried awesomeness and the nicest waitstaff I’ve ever encountered.
Fisherman’s Catch in Wells, Maine has clams and lobsta that are as good or better than anyone’s. Just sayin.
you can’t beat Woodmans Fried lobster..and clams, I have to disagree! Love Lenny and Joes too!
Been to Evelyn’s in RI and I didn’t think they were that great. I can’t believe that Horton’s in East Providence didn’t make this list, though. They have won the Providence Phoenix’s “Best of Rhode Island” many times over. My husband and I have been dining there almost weekly (Spring through Fall) for the past 15 or so years. No water view; in fact, not much of a view at all, but hands down one of the best places for fried clams I’ve ever been to. We used to travel to Plymouth to go to Sousa’s (now closed I think) until we found Horton’s.
I have to say he missed Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery, Maine! It’s wonderful and open year round. The staff/family is not only pleasant, professional but treat you like family when you’re there! They have amazing food, service and atmosphere! You need to add them to the list! It’s a crime not to have them on the list!
Seafood Haven in Westerly RI is my absolute favorite!
Bob’s is really good!
Brown’s is so much better! The only place for locals and visitors
Dad’s in Niantic CT use to be one of the best! It’s been a few years since I’ve been there and I know ownership has changed… but MAN – I still dream about those whole bellies and onion rings!
Essex Seafood, Clambox, Woodman’a (gluten-free) and Dube’s. If you’re out late at night, then Kelly’so on Revere Beach.
Woodman’s has definitely gone downhill over the past few years. Soggy clams more often than not. There was a group of about 6 of us, and afterwards every one of us was in agreement that Woodman’s just wasn’t that good anymore. Since then, we always go to JT Farnham’s now. JT Farnham’s has been perfect every time we go there! The clams are sweet and crisp, and the onion rings are great too.
Surprisingly inland, Captain Jack’s Shack in Easthampton, MA has fabulous fried clams, oysters and scallops. They really care about the quality of their food.
Love Jake’s. Good food, decent prices, and generous portions.
Another great place to eat in Wells.
Huot’s, Camp Ellis, Saco, Maine
Heck, they’re all good. Depends how many beers you’ve quaffed.
For sweet best clams you really need to make a visit to Larry’s Clam Bar in Plaistow NH. Family owned buisness been around for years and we have tried every single clam bar around even Bob’s Clam House and your number #1 pick of the Clam Box. Larry’s is totally the best. If you haven’t been I encourage you to go and order a side of clams.. Lots for your money..
Tried clams, clam cakes and chowder at Evelyn’s and none to the items lived up to the hype. Also disagree about Flo’s in Newport, not much better. Bob’s in Kittery was awesome. Ate at the Clam Box in Ipswich a few weeks ago and not as good as Bob’s. Our pick in RI is Champlin’s for fried clams.
Supreme seafood north Branford,ct — we driver over an hour just for their clam strip dinners. They’re not all breading not greasy
As a resident of Seabrook, NH, and always in the area, you made a big mistake in chosing Markies over Browns. No comparison. If it is booze you want with your meal, Browns is BYOB, and you can buy your setups. If you are from here, you wouldn’t think of going across the road to Markies.
I would agree that they have the greatest seafood but I don’t know if it can be considered a “clam shack”
Dube’s is great but not sure it can be considered a “Clam Shack”
That was made on the wrong thread… SMH I must be getting old
Oxford Creamery really is above the rest….its better different ! We had a good plate on our way to Cape Cod
You forgot to mention Supreme Seafood on rte 80 North Branford, CT!
By the way it’s co-owned by my cousin Vinny, but I am not showing any partiality here by no means.
Here’s the problem with your list, guys: You never say when/whether you’re talking about clam strips or whole clams with bellies. Clam aficionados generally have a strong preference (for me, it’s the latter). To illustrate: Your pic of the Clam Shack in Falmouth, MA shows whole clams; the pic from the Clam Shack in Kennebunkport shows clam strips. The fact that the piece doesn’t even make mention of the difference indicates the writer doesn’t really know from fried clams!
Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery, Maine is, hands down, the best clam shack on the east coast. Nothing else is even close at any price.
Best lobster roll I’ve ever had (and I’ve eaten hundreds) is Eventide in Portland. Overpriced? perhaps. Small portion? Yup. Best lobster roll on a homemade steamed bun ever? Definitely. By a large margin. So bring $26 and eat two of them. Eventide half boils the lobsters then takes it out of the shell and sautes the meat in a brown butter/light lemon vinaigrette. Beyond epic. Actually ruined every lobster roll I’ve had since. Those smart foodie Eventide folks 🙂
DON’T FORGET KREME AND CONE IN DENNIS ON THE CAPE
Kreme N Kone in West Dennis is the best! For inland clams try Ronnies in Auburn. As good as mist places by the shore.
There is a spot in Mystic CT, on the main drag somewhere between I 95 and the seaport, or maybe passed the seaport and into downtown. (It’s been a while) but I think it’s called the SeaSwirl and I remember it being a little shack in a parking lot. Always stopped here for clam strip rolls for lunch when working in the area years ago.
You left out the Sea Swirl in Mystic, CT. Great clams; especially the whole bellies. The lobster rolls are also good too.
Stowes in West Haven CT!
Essex seafood the best!! Clam Box, Farnham’s and Woodman’s?? are tourist traps. Bob’s in Kittery is excellent also!
Mmmm love Jakes! And Mikes Clam Shack in Wells too!
Mike’s Clam Shack in Wells Maine is by far one of my favorite seafood places ever!!
Every time we visit New England, from Texas, our ‘MUST STOP’ is Mike’s Clam Shack in Wells, Maine.
Mike’s is way, way overrated. For a better experience go to Fisherman’s Catch in Wells. It’s on the road to Wells Harbor.
Amen!! How was Bob’s possibly overlooked??!
I agree woodmans does not even make the top 10
their fried clams are amazing! I had the belly clams! Goldenrods is in Manchester New Hampshire. Every time I go there everybody orders clams and it’s always busy in there. They give you a big portion. Definitely worth your money.
we have eaten all along the new England coast and woodmans does not rate in top 10 no way
Been going to Aunt Carries for 35 years. I hate to say it but its not the same anymore. Fried clams were nothing more than strips the last two times i had them. Done. Ill drive to Flo’s… not anywhere in the league of the Clam Shack or Clam Hut, but better than Aunt Carries. Such a shame. Was great years ago.
Couldn’t agree more. last time I tried Evelyn’s it was terrible. unfortunately, despite the fact that its called the ocean state, I can’t think of one clam Shack that I would highly recommend in RI. Flo’s is nothing to write home about, Evelyns is awful, Iggies is nothing more than clam strips with one or two small bellies and sadky, Aunt Carries has going downhill over the last three years is is nothing like it was once.
I was just thinking the same thing! I grew up in Fall River and everyone knows Flo’s is awesome!
Wow, while I wasn’t too surprised, the omission of Essex Seafood is a bummer. But, let the tourists go where they go, and I’ll be one step closer to them calling my number at the best place around. Essex Seafood!
Agreed about Essex Seafood. Fantastic clams–fantastic everything!
Richard’s Seafood Rest. Route 109 Wells Maine just over the line from North Berwick. Clams there are very good so is the lobster pie.
Clams, I lived in Ipswich for 35 years. Yes the Clam Box is good. Best clams are in Cornish Maine at a café. Beats all in New England. Cant remember its name. Worth the ride.
Another vote for Kreme and Kone! SO good!
Nobody does fried clams better than J.T. Farnham’s in Essex, MA.
Iggy’s is a great place too in RI!
I like The Bayside in Westport, Massacusetts for fried clams!
It’s Mike’s Stand/ Deary Bros in Putnam, Ct., and the fried clams are amazing. It’s definitely a hidden gem
Also in Essex is the Village restaurant. Awesome clams, way better than Woodmans.
You forgot probably the best place in Ipswich, MA for whole belly fried clams, and that is: Ipswich Clambake Co, 196 High Street. None of the other places mentioned can beat them!
I love Ipswich Clambake!
Love Flo’s!
Flos has gone down hill in the past couple of years. The quality of the clams is not as good as in the past. Tha french fries are also not as good as they use to be. My new place for GREAT FRIED CLAMS is Igies Doughboys either in Warwick or Narraganset R.I. They are the best.
Next time order the whole clam and not the clam strips.
Westbrook Lobster Restaurant (Westbrook, CT) is (much) better then Lenny and Joe’s (sorry guys). Their fried clams are consistently fresh, and should you opt for lobster…well, it’s equally delicious. Friendly atmosphere to boot!…wait a minute, why am I letting others in on my secret….darn!!
You missed Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock in New London, Connecticut. It’s tucked out of the way and has AMAZING food!!! When I’m back in my hometown(I live in Florida now), I make sure to stop by for clam fritters and Rhode Island(clear broth) clam chowder!!! Omg, yum!!!!
Flo’s in Middletown, Ri is The best. I have friends and family that come from as far as California for Flo’s Fried Clams.
Bob’s in Kittery is outstanding. Every year to Northern Maine,fishing,we have to stop at Bob’s in Kittery
THE worst fried clams ever. Tiny, dry, totally over priced. Perfect for Massachusetts tourists.
Unfortunately, Hortons has closed. 🙁
Browns in Hampton Beach NH, the best…. this place sells the real deal, not those tiny belly strips– so called clams. What happened to the big belly clams that we used to get? Browns has them.
Most people think all the best fried clams are in places by the ocean but The Red Barn in Augusta, ME has WONDERFUL fried, whole belly clams! I crave them all the time I’m in Florida and can’t wait to get some when I get home to Maine. The owners of the Red Barn are also the nicest people you could ever meet and are always available to help people in need by hosting events to raise needed funds. Sweet people, Sweet clams!
Agree ………. Barlow’s clams are the BEST. It is a typical Cape Cod “shack” with excellent food and wonderful people who work there. I never go to the Cape without making a stop for either the clams or lobster roll.
Blount in Bristol RI. right on the harbor is A HUGE favorite…only outdoor seating. The best I feel
Just try to get in there going north on route 1, there was a gap and I thought this guy was going to let me in and he tried to close the gap when I was trying to turn left gong in there.
Peteys, Rye Nh.
Consistently delicious
how About Lennies in Bradford neck
The Lost Gull Fish-N-Chips in Oxford, Maine.
Delicious clams and generous portions! Some of the best I’ve ever had!
clam box is too busy long long line not worth it in the end either I’ll take Woodmans over that
Cobies in Brewster is good, but the Friendly Fisherman in Eastham on Route 6 has better clams and a better lobster roll. And you have to love Mac’s on the Pier in Wellfleet–great fried seafood and you get to enjoy it on Mayo Beach.
And where is The Thirsty Whale of Bar Harbor on this list? They have the best fried clams on the East Coast, bar none!
Champlin’s is #1 in R.I. although your list is great there of course has to be overlooks. there are so many good ones, Flo’s in R.I is overrated for clams but everything else is damn good. Dube’s in Salem and the shack in Falmouth ( I go for the view) are nice.
Haven’t tried Lena’s in Salisbury. I don’t see many South Shore entries (ie Plymouth) but being from the North Shore had to pass-on my ratings 1-10 (still looking for that 10): 9-Burlington Escadrille Restaurant whole clams but inconsistent, 8- Essex Blue Marlin whole clams, 7-Ipswich Clam Box whole, 6-tied Essex Village & Skipper’s Galley Restaurants, 5-Plymouth East Bay Grille, 4-Plymouth Lobster Pot, 3-Plymouth Wood’s Restaurant, 2- Essex Farnham’s, 1-Essex Woodman’s, and the worst was Essex Seafood, There in 2010 we waited over an hour for our food watching sunset turn to nightfall and closing. Our fried dinners not properly or thoroughly cooked, we had to ask to cook more and eating less than half, ended up both getting very sick.
Have to Bless Lena’s . I haven’t tried them there , but they are open summer’s in Silver Springs , Florida , on 40 east of Ocala . For me is nearly 100 mile round trip but worth it twice a year , at the start and end of their season here.A TASTE OF HOME.
Larry’s in Plaistow NH is good too but inconsistent. Riley’s on Revere Beach is too salty and overcooked same for Saugus site.
You mean Kelly’s. Not the best but since it’s a 30 second walk from my brother’s apartment, I eat there a few times every summer when I visit hi. Their clams aren’t bad but I’ve had better in Rockport and Marshfield. Arthur and Pat’s had the best clams and clam chowder when they were around.
I have been to and eaten in every state in New England multiple times since childhood. The best is a matter of opinion. That being said some of the finest eating New England clam strips are at the Liberty Bell Roast Beef and Seafood in Melrose, MA. No kidding this place is great!!
Clam Strips, REALLY !
Hey, clam strips are still a clam! 😉
Red Wing in Walpole, MA is the best! http://redwingdiner.com/
yes , grew up on those
Whole Heartily agree. We always, did I say always, have dinner one night whenever we are up North.
You forgot Brown’s Lobster Pound . I’ve tried Brown’s Lobster Pound and Woodsman’s and my family preferred Brown’s.
Is Brown’s Lobster Pond related to Brown’ Pavilion (a place I used to visit long, long ago)?
Maybe you cant call it a clam shack but the Red Wing Diner in Walpole MA has the best whole belly clams I have ever had.
Still the Best around since I have been going there since 68!
Ate at the clam shack in Ipswich MA growing up 40 years ago on our way to and from our cottage on the cape. Always had the best whole belly clams and lobster rolls.
Arnolds was me favorite as a boy.
Yes, Captain Jack’s is GREAT! Better than ANY shack I’ve been to on the shore.
The Beach Plum in Portsmith New Hampshire
Yep – Sea Swirl has the best fried clams I’ve eaten. Of course, I’ve only tried Woodman’s from the list everyone else has posted. Maybe I need to do a clam trip next summer???
Skippers in Saco, ME. Serves delicious clams. Dry not greasy. Not that far from OOB and Ogunguit. Unbeatable salmon pie on Fridays.
Agreed, Kream ‘n Kone is the best fried seafood I’ve ever had, hands down
Kreme ‘n Kone is the bomb!!! Always has been, but only the one at intersection of 134 and rt28. Also the best onion rings ever….
Flo’s is the best,sure do miss it
I live in Virginia and can’t get any good seafood. Need to make a trip back to Portsmouth for some good seafood.
I went to Portsmouth High
Bayhaven in Cornish, Maine is by far the best seafood.
I am a New Englander and we cannot get whole belly clams here in PA! When I go to NH my friends take me to Bay Haven in Cornish Me. I love all the seafood there. I would kill for Fried Clams right now. LOL
My favorite is Captain Scotts Lobster Dock in New London, CT…hot lobster rolls and steamers are the best!!!
I agree Captain Scott’s has the greatest belly clams, scallops, and chowder.
There are certainly more than 10 great clam-shacks in New England – almost every coastal town has their “FAV” – In CT we have plenty of choices. I travel to ME every summer and whilst waiting in traffic in Wiscasset i oft get out of traffic abd head for “Red’s” – just before the bridge……known more for their signature lobster roll, however they do serve a decent fried bivalve…..
Ceas clamsrand in Seabrook is the best! Excellent clams and onion rings to die for.
Great choices. I have had the pleasure of eating at 6 of these shacks. But……I must say Woodman’s is terribly over rated
I agree, got them a while ago and were wicked greasy and huge.
I live in Ipswich. We go past the Clam Box and past Woodman’s to JT Farnhams in Essex. Essex Seafood has the best chowder around. The Causeway in Gloucester is great, too–and an exception value. Don’t overorder—the portions are huge!
Red’s in Wiscasset always has a waiting line of at least an hour! Another hot spot is Bob’s Clam Hut on rte. 1 in Kittery, Maine!
How could you miss Bob’s Clam Hut? It’s one of the best. Bob’s Clam Hut all the way!
Never dealt with the bellies vs strips debate. Eating clam strips is sort of like showering in a raincoat … what’s the point. Though I will readily admit that some of the huge whole belly clams out of Long Island Sound are pretty hard tho choke down. The smaller, tendersweet clams (from the Northshore of Mass., however, are exquisite! Lenny and Joe’s in CT gets my southern New England vote, though fresh clams, lightly battered and fried in fresh oil can be found in many places. Oh, and for what it’s worth, be sure to articulate when ordering … My young daughter for years labored under the misapprehension that I was ordering “hillbilly” clams (maybe they’re the ones cooked in sourmash!?!)
I’m fortunate to live within reach of all 3 Lenny & Joes which, I agree, make some of the best WHOLE BELLY clams out there…but there’s another place that makes outstanding fried WHOLE BELLY clams, and this one’s a surprise: the White Cottage, a summer hamburger stand on the Ottauquechee River at the edge of Woodstock, VT…who’d figure? But their clams are right up there with the best!
Cobie’s is pretty good, but Mac’s on the Pier in Wellfleet and The Friendly Fisherman in Eastham both have a superior fried clam, but the best, the best in all New England is The Thirsty Whale in Bar Harbor.
Thirsty Whale when in Maine! Yes!!!
I’ve eaten at every restaurant mentioned in Essex and we prefer Shea’s deck. In Kennebunkport it’s Allison’s, Gloucester it’s The Causeway and at home in Newburyport it’s The Park Lunch
Remove the clam shack in Falmouth and replace with Arnolds in Eastham!
Absolutely! Arnold’s is the best I have had! Glad you recommended it!
You missed another jewel. Macray’s Seafood II Stafford Rd. Tiverton, RI.
Brown’s Lobster Pound All The Way! The Best!!!
Browns over Markey’s every day of the week. Ceals may be better though.
NET RESULT, Vineyard Haven, MA
I second the Net Result, just had it, though not fried clams. Had the steamed lobster with mussels and steamers special and it was phenomenal, and well priced.
Lindsey’s Restaurant in Buzzards Bay!!!
…………….. Where are the clams?……All I see are tiny portions and hardly any clams.
You could do a whole other list of hidden gems or ‘off the beaten path’ shacks, like Denmo’s in Southbury, CT – fried whole clams, fried scallops, softshell crab… and good burgers. So how about another list, or a map of all these?
The best fried clams on the east coast is the Park Lunch, Merrimac St Newburyport, Ma
Park Lunch is great. Time for me to get home for some more good clams. Live 185 miles away and have been known to make a trip home just for lunch and return.
I absolutely adore fried clams. I would eat them every day if I could! and bellies are by far better than strips. I have eaten at many of the places recommended in this thread, and at places in Ct, RI, MA,NH, and ME. I am shocked to see that no one else has recommended the HINGHAM LOBSTER POUND, at Broad Cove,in HIngham ,Ma…. south of Boston. It is a take out only place, but …. absolutely the best I have EVER had. I DREAM of their clams….all other items are also sure to please, but the CLAMS!!!! oh my! Check it out if you are ever in the area!!!! …. I wish I could o there right now!
Agree that it receive little praise – maybe because it’s near a busy curve just before the harbor that people pass it. Worth the stop, for sure. Apparently, there are zero clams (soft-shells) any farther south than an undesignated spot in CT….can’t find clams anywhere near Philadelphia and don’t get me started on that horrid red “clam” soup! I’ve had clams, steamed and fried all over NE, in restaurants, shacks, taverns, etc. and as long as they had bellies, they were edible (and good). Clam strips might as well be fried rubber bands. Speaking of rubber bands, who steams lobsters with the rubber bands on them? It makes the lobsters taste like rubber. Sheesh!
Hands down Sir Cricket on Rt 28 in Orleans Ma. This is a hole in the wall in a tiny strip mall w/ their fish market on the left. The best fried clams, scallops and fried cod anyway. No skimping on portions and good prices. I will go out of my way to go here. Just about 6 tables and a couple outside,
Maybe half of my choice is the location, but I love the clams at the restaurant next to Nubble Light House, ME
Clam Shack in Ipswich is highly overrated and expensive (increases every year). If you don’t want to wait in line either (extremely long) then travel by it, about 1/2 mike and try The Clam Bake. Definitely
If you don’t want to wait in the long lines for the Clam Box in Ipswich, MA, travel past it for approximately 1/2 mile on the right is an excellent little place called The Clam Bake. Excellent seafood. Fresh, not greasy, clams not sandy, reasonably priced, friendly staff…don’t need to say much more!
Maybe overlooked because it’s not in a Coastal town, but Ronnie’ s Seafood in Charlton, MA is a gem!
totally agree – always get clam roll-cheaper-but plenty of clams.
I always read these articles about best clams, or seafood in New England and am always amazed that you don’t include Ronnie’s of Mass. There are 2 locations, run by 2 brothers. One in Auburn, the other in Charlton. But they have the best seafood. My favorite is in Charlton and their fried scallops. But all is delicious.
You should do an article about getting fried clams in Worcester County without crossing the bridge. Oh and go try Ronnie’s, they close in the fall.
Flo’s clamshack in Island Park (Portsmouth, RI)
The best fried seafood
Still and always will be #1 is Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery. Tried the Clam Box, Woodman’s and Farnums and none of those come close…None..Especially when prepped “Bob’s Way’…The scallops and haddock are superb also…
I agree! Though there are some very good places here in Rhode Island, Bob’s is the best.
Bob’s is a tourist trap.
Not so, expensive but with generous proportions, Taste great.
I love LENA”S Seafood best of all number one in Silver Spring RT 40 near Ocola Forest Flordia very good reasonable low prices we go there 3 or 4 times per months. Fl.
You seriously overlooked The Red Barn in Augusta, Maine. Best full belly fried clams anywhere! And fried anything! Plus Laura Benedict, the owner, does limitless fundraising for people in the community. Please check it out!
Unfortunately their fried clams are not on the menu this year. Been there 3 times this summer, hoping, but no luck. Love all their other dishes though
Ceal’s in Seabrook, NH is by far the best fried clam shack there is.
Clams are fresh, lightly battered and delicious! If you want the best fried clams ever, you need to try this clam shack, it’s so “New England”. More well known
places such as Browns or Woodmans can’t compare.
Totally agree with Bob on this one. I’m 71 and I’ve been going there since I was a kid. Great place! Great people! Great clams!
We love the clam haven in derry new hampshire
How about Cooke’s on Cape Cod? They use a light batter which seems greaseless. There are Cooke’s in Orleans, Hyannis and Mashpee. When my brother from Florida visits, that’s where I take him.
I would definitely agree that Flo’s Clam Shack (Middletown RI) & Flo’s Drive In (Portsmouth RI) have incredible assortment of seafood. Then there is the Lobster Pot in Wareham MA that has an incredible selection of scrumptuous seafood. All are fairly reasonably priced.
Agreed Flo’s is awesome!
Stowes in West Haven, CT has great fried clams. Besides New Haven apizza and family, Stowes is one of the only things I miss about living in CT.
Clam Castle on rte 1 Madison Clinton town line. WOW. Lennys across street is frozen clams according to cashier. Went to Clam Castle and saw them fresh make them. WOW !
Heard Clam Castle was awesome
They are the best and huge portions
You have to try Marshfield’s Green Harbor Lobster Pound. Giant lobster rolls and delicious fried clams. Not all the best places are north of Boston!
Tony’s Clams Wollaston Beach
I agree!
I agree Tony’s is really great!
Mike’s Clam Shack in Wells, Me is just a tourist trap. Jakes changed hands, not as good as they once were.Fisherman’s Catch in Wells, the best!
Seafood has always been expensive we know. I live a stone throw from Fisherman’s Catch and every year BANG! they go up why? Lobsters are so low in price right now. I like this place too and live 1.5 mi from it but recently looked online for ordering and I got the Fisherman’s Feast and very disappointed.They had gone up $10 and never changed online menu. Don’t care for these places just out to rip off tourists!
My husband and I just went to Maine. We really enjoyed the fresh calamari, scallops and smelts. They offer a Combo plate with a generous portion. We brought friends from NYC and they loved it also. We tried the clam chowder and the haddock sandwich also very delicious at the Fisherman’s Clam Shack. Four thumbs up!! Affordable in comparison to other places in Ogunquit and Wells, Maine!
Let’s face it. Clams are a way of life in New England. But I bet I would love every one of the Clam and Seaford places mentioned in every State. Even Frozen!
LOBSTER STOP Restaurant at fore river bridge is excellent too!!!!
Must go to Seafood Shanty, across from Cape Cod Canal, Rte. 6, Bournedale, MA. The ABSOLUTE BEST! ❤️
They must have drastically brought up their game. People did not have good reports last year and the year before! I’ll try to check them out, as I live not far across Canal.
Seafood Shanty was not even close to the best from 2015-2019. Have not been back since so maybe they have changed things up. Arnold’s in Eastham is certainly a great place, but the best is not really in the cards for them anymore. Cobie’s is great and certainly a legendary establishment on lower Cape and is probably the best on lower Cape for clams.
And their family at the original diner in Salisbury Mass too!!! Best calamari!!!
Ken’s Place in Scarborough,ME is hard to beat. Food is outstanding every time and the people are the BEST!
I totally agree with JodyG’s recommendation about Ken’s Place in Scarborough, Maine. It’s the best in the greater Portland area.
Thats Ceal’s in Seabrook and I agree has the best rings and clams we pass Markeys for them. they have been i
there foe 72 years
I think Brown’s is superior.
We found Ceal’s this summer because of this “Blog.” It is hands down the best fried clams. Even my husband, who doesn’t care for them, thought these were excellent. They were the sweetest clams I have ever tasted!
Yes in Seabrook Ceals is the best clams, oh and onions to die for clams are so clean and sweet they give you a lot I get a small
What, no Arnold’s??? Best fried seafood on the planet, hands down. Right on Route 6 in Eastham, MA.
Agreed, Arnold’s are the best!!!
While these all look delicious, I am surprised that Pop’s Clam Shell in Alton Bay NH was not the list. Maybe you didn’t know about it, haven’t been there, or some other reason. At any rate, you MUST try Pop’s! The very best succulent whole clams, superb lobster rolls, and amazing onion rings. You won’t be disappointed.
Cobies in Brewster on the Cape has the best fried clams and we have had clams all over New England. We discovered it 2 years ago from a friend and now when we go north we make it a point to enjoy the large whole belly beauties. Arnolds is still very good and the Red Wing in Walpole was always a favorite when we were in the area.So many great clam shacks so it is impossible to rate one as the best!!! Vic and Pam, Venice Fla.
Far from the coast but not far from the best Ronnie’s shack on the side rte 20 Auburn MA born and raised there eat many since the early 60’s platters of fish and chips lobster rolls and what ever else yummmmmmmmmmm!
I’ve tried a few of these places on here but I’m surprised nobody said Tides in Nahant Ma.
In the old days (and yes, I’m old enough to remember a quart of fried clams for $1.95), lard was used to fry clams. Woodman’s still uses lard which I’m sure produces a superior tasting clam. The oil fried clams that I’ve had over the years simply don’t compare to what was available everywhere years ago.
I also remember the clams at $1.95 a quart. When they went up to $2.05, I thought that was highway robbery! I remember going to Salisbury Beach and thinking 50 cents for a half pint of fried clams was a total ripoff!
You should include Cooke’s Seafood in Orleans, MA. I’ve tried clams all over the east coast my whole life and theirs are by far the best. I travel 2 extra hours on my New England trip every summer just to eat there.
I’m visiting MA, Vt and NH 9/10 – 9/19. Will any fried clam places be available? Lobster?
Causeway Restaurant Gloucester look them up.
Lee Circle Grocery On Wheels – a food truck that doesn’t go anywhere on Rt. 125 in Lee NH. Doesn’t look like much but take a look at the reviews on that place. A quart of clams is $34. A pint is $19. Same price 2020 and 2021. And they are very good as is all the other food they serve. Clams are far better than several of the places mentioned in this article.
Not a bad list and I have frequented a few of these places that are mentioned. One of the best places to get fried clams in all of New England, though, is the Bagaduce Lunch in Penobscot, Maine Aside from the fact they have been at it since 1946, they are also a James Beard Award winning restaurant.
agree, Bagaduce is the best one of all.
I met my wife at Bob’s back in ’77. We both ate the same clam. We’ve been eating clams ever since.
“Brown’s” fried clams in Seabrook please!
Anyone remember Hugo’s clams and fish and chips? They used to be on Badger’s Island, between downtown Portsmouth NH and Kittery ME. In addition to their delicious food, as a young child I enjoyed the yellow mechanical bull ride they had instead of the standard horse ride. ???? Not sure what years Hugo’s was in business, but I’m guessing late 1950s and early 1960s.
I’m sorry to say this Cobies in Brewster is not the best clam shack on Cape Cod. Kate’s in Brester Cape Cod Massachusetts is the best !!! It’s on the west side of Brewster before the Natural History Museum. He clam fitters are unbelievably good. Her crab roll is fantastic and so is her lobster ???? rolls, they have good burgers too and their fries are really good. I highly recommend Kate’s in Brewster Cape Cod. Tell her Gary sent you !!!!
Love reading all these ideas but if you haven’t been to the Lobster Hut in Plymouth MA you are missing out. Has been there for 65++ years = always consistent – never greasy. Enjoy any of their fried foods – I never miss an opportunity to eat there when I visit MA.
Love fried clams. Virtually unknown outside of the East Coast and NE. Pretty pricey in the NE also.