Have a craving for some tasty seafood? Looking for an amazing clam shack to get your fix of delicious fried morsels? Look no further. We've assembled a list of some of the best seafood dives and clam joints across the state, so you can plan your next clam-based road trip. We can't be the only ones who do those...right?
Quick note: these spots are not listed in order of awesomeness. They're all great, so save room in your stomach for a tour of each!
1. The Clam Shack of Falmouth, Falmouth
You can't beat the killer view at this clam shack. Overlooking Falmouth Harbor and serving up crispy and light fried clam strips to die for, you'll want to pull up seat at one of their picnic tables again and again.
2. Baxter's Boathouse Restaurant, Hyannis
If you're so inclined, you can sail your boat right up to this clam shack. Baxter's has been in business since 1957. It features both a traditional, family-friendly fish n' chips joint, as well as a Boathouse Club (21+). Enjoy a delicious basket of clams while watching ships sail in and out of Hyannis Harbor.
3. The Clam Box, Ipswich
This place has quite the well-deserved reputation for serving delicious heaps of clams. Their simple window-order style and sunny picnic area make them a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
4. J. T. Farnham’s Seafood and Grill, Essex
This spot is located on Route 133, which locals call the "Clam Highway." The secret to J. T. Farnham’s amazing clams? They use a mixture of vegetable oil and animal fat in their frying process. Pair your clams with their yummy seafood chowder for a flavorful feast.
5. Arnold's Lobster and Clam Bar, Eastham
This spot is definitely no stranger to long lines, but their fare is totally worth it and the wait usually isn't long. Along with delicious whole-belly clams, they sell over 2,000 pounds of their amazing onion rings per week.
6. The Bite, Martha's Vineyard
If you find yourself out on the smaller of the Cape Islands, definitely make time for a stop at The Bite. Besides the fantastic location right on the water, this tiny shack sources their seafood right from the local (and excellent) Menemsha Fish Market.
7. Cobie's, Brewster
This place is just what a clam shack should be: fast counter service, plenty of outdoor seating, and tasty grub. Cobie's is right on the bike trail in Brewster, so you can ride in and maybe feel a little less guilty about all that delicious fried seafood you're about to consume.
8. Kream N' Kone, West Dennis
Kream N' Kone is a Cape Cod landmark, and has been proudly serving what they call "the finest fried seafood anywhere) since the '50s. After the original building burned down in 2003, two new establishments were opened: one by the original owners in West Chatham, and one by another party in West Dennis. Though the original location was in West Dennis, the West Chatham location retains the charm and tradition of the first Kream N' Kone. Stop by for a huge platter of fried fish and whole-belly clams.
9. Woodman's of Essex, Essex
This five-generation family business is a Massachusetts seafood landmark. Woodman's claims to have invented the fried clam on July 3rd, 1916. They've been serving top-notch clams ever since. Try one of their signature clam buckets for a nostalgic meal that's full of fresh flavor.
10. Mac's Shack, Wellfleet
This place is all about the goodness of fresh, local food and friendly faces. Mac works the kitchen and crafts many of his family’s old recipes, as well as some new favorites like halibut in saffron lobster broth. If you’re not looking to get fancy, though, don’t fret – there are plenty of old-fashioned clams to go around.
11. Roy Moore Lobster Co., Rockport
Sure, it has "lobster" in the name, but this place can bust out some killer clams. One of the North Shore's best seafood joints, Roy Moore continues to impress with its great value and seaside locale.
12. Bob Lobster, Newbury
Another awesome North Shore shack with spectacular views and crave-worthy seafood. If you feel like taking a break from clams, the coconut shrimp here is divine.
13. Snug Harbor Fish Company, Duxbury
This South Shore spot serves "good food, not fast food," and for that we are grateful. More than just fried fare, they offer fresh vegetables and herbs at their location. Try the deep-fried soft shell crabs for a truly decadent snack.
14. The Hingham Lobster Pound, Hingham
Quaint counter-service, lots of options and within driving distance to the waterfront. The Hingham Lobster Pound serves one mean triple-decker lobster sandwich, along with the requisite delicious clam fare.
Give us your suggestions for other amazing clam shacks in Massachusetts! Also, seafood lovers shouldn't forget to check out our top choices for the best beachfront restaurants in Massachusetts.
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