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IssuesMarch/April 2008FoodBest New England Food: Where to Go

16. Fried Clams

fried clams
Credit: Rayne Beaudoin

J.T. Farnham's
88 Eastern Ave. (Rte. 133)
Essex, MA
978-768-6643

The "clam highway" on Boston's North Shore and Cape Ann boasts at least five fabulous shacks, including Woodman's, said to be the inventor of fried clams. Our preference is Farnham's: light, not greasy, no rubbery clam strips, just sweet-and-tender bellies and necks.

Reader CommentsRSS

Comment from Thomas Elliott on March 3, 2008

As a New England expatriate, I long for "whole clams" which seem to be a rarity outside of New England, and particularly Essex. However, there is a beacon of hope out here on the West Coast in San Diego, CA, where you can get "real" clams and Maine Lobster. If you are ever out this way, stop by the Studio Diner (www.studiodiner.com), where they fly the little critters in twice a week. Reputedly over $1,000,000 a year. Just to satisfy the cravings of us misplaced souls. Plus, they are open 24/7.

Comment from R Butler on September 12, 2008

I may be taken to task but for real fried clam enthusiasts and not just wanna-bes or tourists, the two best places are: The Clam Box in Ipswich and The Causeway (the ultimate fried clam place) in Gloucester. Yes, Farnhams is good too, but these two are heads and shoulders above the rest. If you do visit the Cuaseway, bring an appetite. A regular plate of anything either takes one heck of an appetite to finish or is a meal for two for the normal appetite. But, trust me, it is well worth a visit.

Comment from Dave Traill on April 3, 2009

"Jimmies of Savin Rock" in West Haven, CT has great fried clams.

Comment from Suzanne Sandblom on April 3, 2009

Yes the Clambox is the best but then I haven't been to the Causeway in Gloucester---I also like Farnhams- Woodman's is too greasy!

Comment from Kevin Dugan on April 4, 2009

Flo's in Portsmouth, RI or Evelyn's in Tiverton, RI are the places I go when I get back to RI. Great clams!

Comment from Ann fisher on April 6, 2009

Ted's Fried Clams in Shapleigh, Maine has the crispiest batter and the most tender bellies.

Comment from timothy schell on March 3, 2010

Hi, Jimmies of Savin Rock in West Haven was good when I was younger. But in CT now I would have to say it's a toss up between Lenny's in Westbrook or U.S.S. Chowder Pot in Branford.

Comment from Kathy Drelicharz on March 3, 2010

Fried Clams and Seafood is the best at Jake's in Wells, ME

Comment from Jan Mahon on August 22, 2010

Gene\'s Clam Shop in Fairhaven, Ma. is very good too, also there clam cakes.

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