The 18 Best Places for Clams in New York City
In the vibrant food scene of NYC, clams hold a special place. From classic clam chowder in Manhattan to fried clams in Brooklyn, these bivalves create a delectable dining experience. Clams in NYC are a must-try for seafood lovers, offering a taste of the ocean in every bite. Whether you prefer them raw, steamed, or in a sandwich, clams in NYC never disappoint.
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- 1. Lobster Place
- 2. Randazzo's Clam Bar
- 3. Claw Daddy's
- 4. Flex Mussels
- 5. Fish Market
- 6. Mermaid Oyster Bar
- 7. Mary's Fish Camp
- 8. Manero's of Mulberry
- 9. Lee's Tavern
- 10. Mel's
- 11. Gene's
- 12. Bamonte's
- 13. Umbertos Clam House
- 14. Luke's Lobster Midtown East
- 15. Grand Central Oyster Bar
- 16. Nick's Lobster House
- 17. Peter's Clam Bar
- 18. Paul's Daughter
1. Lobster Place
One of the few places in NYC to find a wide variety of live lobsters
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The first passage describes a meal enjoyed by two individuals, consisting of a lobster roll and New England clam chowder. The food was evidently satisfying, as the speakers did not leave any leftovers. However, the second sentence suggests that there may have been some room for improvement when it comes to the clam chowder.
The second passage offers more specific feedback about the clam chowder, noting that it had a creamy consistency and included potatoes. However, despite these positive qualities, the chowder was found wanting in one key respect: it lacked clams. This suggests that, while the dish may have been tasty, it did not fully live up to its intended purpose as a clam chowder.
The first passage describes a meal enjoyed by two individuals, consisting of a lobster roll and New England clam chowder. The food was evidently satisfying, as the speakers did not leave any leftovers. However, the second sentence suggests that there may have been some room for improvement when it comes to the clam chowder.
The second passage offers more specific feedback about the clam chowder, noting that it had a creamy consistency and included potatoes. However, despite these positive qualities, the chowder was found wanting in one key respect: it lacked clams. This suggests that, while the dish may have been tasty, it did not fully live up to its intended purpose as a clam chowder.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
2. Randazzo's Clam Bar
Claims to have the best clams in the city since 1916
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The seafood dishes I ordered were both delicious and fresh. My first selection, the steamed clams, had an excellent taste and were cooked to perfection. The clams were clearly fresh, which enhanced their natural flavor and made for a delightful dining experience.
The baked clams were equally impressive. They were prepared to perfection, with a perfect level of doneness that was neither overcooked nor underdone. The seasoning on the baked clams was also impeccable, adding a burst of flavor that perfectly complemented the clams' natural taste. Both dishes were undoubtedly a hit, demonstrating the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness.
The seafood dishes I ordered were both delicious and fresh. My first selection, the steamed clams, had an excellent taste and were cooked to perfection. The clams were clearly fresh, which enhanced their natural flavor and made for a delightful dining experience.
The baked clams were equally impressive. They were prepared to perfection, with a perfect level of doneness that was neither overcooked nor underdone. The seasoning on the baked clams was also impeccable, adding a burst of flavor that perfectly complemented the clams' natural taste. Both dishes were undoubtedly a hit, demonstrating the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
3. Claw Daddy's
Interactive dining experience where you can crack open crabs and enjoy with friends
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The garlic butter grilled clams were a tasty seafood dish that had been prepared with care. One serving featured clams that were cooked just right, with a perfect balance of garlic and butter that enhanced their natural flavor. The dish was a delight to savor.
In another instance, the grilled clams were slightly overcooked, resulting in a tougher texture. However, despite this, the flavor of the clams still stood out, as the garlic butter seasoning had been applied well. Overall, the dish was still enjoyable, showcasing the versatility of clams and their ability to shine even when slightly overcooked.
The garlic butter grilled clams were a tasty seafood dish that had been prepared with care. One serving featured clams that were cooked just right, with a perfect balance of garlic and butter that enhanced their natural flavor. The dish was a delight to savor.
In another instance, the grilled clams were slightly overcooked, resulting in a tougher texture. However, despite this, the flavor of the clams still stood out, as the garlic butter seasoning had been applied well. Overall, the dish was still enjoyable, showcasing the versatility of clams and their ability to shine even when slightly overcooked.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. Flex Mussels
Known for their unique and experimental seafood dishes
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The clam strips were a standout dish, boasting a crispy texture and well-seasoned flavor. They were skillfully prepared, resulting in a must-try delicacy that is sure to impress.
These clam strips featured a delightful crispy exterior, thanks to a cornmeal crust that added an extra layer of texture. The dish was further enhanced by a cilantro lime crema, which provided a tangy and flavorful complement to the strips.
The clam strips were a standout dish, boasting a crispy texture and well-seasoned flavor. They were skillfully prepared, resulting in a must-try delicacy that is sure to impress.
These clam strips featured a delightful crispy exterior, thanks to a cornmeal crust that added an extra layer of texture. The dish was further enhanced by a cilantro lime crema, which provided a tangy and flavorful complement to the strips.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
5. Fish Market
Operates as both a retail market and wholesale supplier
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The clams served were fresh and cooked to perfection. They were seasoned just right, making for a truly delicious meal. This dish is a must-try for anyone who appreciates great seafood.
I had the pleasure of enjoying the clams and they were truly exceptional. They ranked as one of the best clams I've had in a long time. The combination of freshness and expert cooking made for an unforgettable dining experience.
The clams served were fresh and cooked to perfection. They were seasoned just right, making for a truly delicious meal. This dish is a must-try for anyone who appreciates great seafood.
I had the pleasure of enjoying the clams and they were truly exceptional. They ranked as one of the best clams I've had in a long time. The combination of freshness and expert cooking made for an unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
6. Mermaid Oyster Bar
Features a mermaid theme with a floor-to-ceiling aquarium
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The grand platter we ordered for our meal featured a variety of delicious seafood, but the littleneck clams stood out as a particular highlight. These clams were extremely fresh and had an excellent flavor that made for a fantastic start to our dining experience.
The littleneck clams were carefully selected and prepared, resulting in a delicious and enjoyable taste that left us craving more. As one of the six items included in the grand platter, the clams proved to be a valuable addition and demonstrated the high quality of the meal as a whole.
The grand platter we ordered for our meal featured a variety of delicious seafood, but the littleneck clams stood out as a particular highlight. These clams were extremely fresh and had an excellent flavor that made for a fantastic start to our dining experience.
The littleneck clams were carefully selected and prepared, resulting in a delicious and enjoyable taste that left us craving more. As one of the six items included in the grand platter, the clams proved to be a valuable addition and demonstrated the high quality of the meal as a whole.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Mid-Range
7. Mary's Fish Camp
A classic New York seafood joint with a loyal following
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Fried oysters and clams were a standout feature of the meal, offering a delicious combination of textures. The fried clams, in particular, were a joy to eat – they had a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the clams themselves were tender and full of flavor. The accompanying Fish Camp Tartar Sauce was a perfect complement, adding a tangy and creamy element to each bite.
Overall, the fried seafood was expertly prepared, with a golden-brown batter that was crispy and never greasy. Whether you prefer oysters or clams, you’re sure to enjoy these fried delights. The tartar sauce, made in-house, was a nice touch and added a level of sophistication to the dish. If you’re a fan of seafood, this is a must-try appetizer that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
Fried oysters and clams were a standout feature of the meal, offering a delicious combination of textures. The fried clams, in particular, were a joy to eat – they had a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the clams themselves were tender and full of flavor. The accompanying Fish Camp Tartar Sauce was a perfect complement, adding a tangy and creamy element to each bite.
Overall, the fried seafood was expertly prepared, with a golden-brown batter that was crispy and never greasy. Whether you prefer oysters or clams, you’re sure to enjoy these fried delights. The tartar sauce, made in-house, was a nice touch and added a level of sophistication to the dish. If you’re a fan of seafood, this is a must-try appetizer that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
8. Manero's of Mulberry
Known for its high-end men's and women's fashion
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The clams served were fresh and delicious, boasting a tender and well-cooked texture. They were skillfully seasoned, enhancing their natural taste and creating a satisfying dining experience. The clam dish was a standout meal, bursting with flavor and demonstrating the chef's expertise. Each morsel was expertly prepared, ensuring a delightful and enjoyable meal.
Eating the clams was a true pleasure, thanks to their freshness and delectable flavor. The seasoning complemented the clams perfectly, resulting in a harmonious and appetizing symphony of taste. Overall, the clam dish was a culinary triumph, showcasing the chef's mastery over the ingredients and elevating the meal to a new level of deliciousness.
The clams served were fresh and delicious, boasting a tender and well-cooked texture. They were skillfully seasoned, enhancing their natural taste and creating a satisfying dining experience. The clam dish was a standout meal, bursting with flavor and demonstrating the chef's expertise. Each morsel was expertly prepared, ensuring a delightful and enjoyable meal.
Eating the clams was a true pleasure, thanks to their freshness and delectable flavor. The seasoning complemented the clams perfectly, resulting in a harmonious and appetizing symphony of taste. Overall, the clam dish was a culinary triumph, showcasing the chef's mastery over the ingredients and elevating the meal to a new level of deliciousness.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
9. Lee's Tavern
Known for their famous Burger and Pizza
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The clam pie is a remarkable dish, widely regarded as one of the best pies available. It has a perfect crispy crust, and its light and airy interior makes it incredibly satisfying without being overly filling. The unique flavor and texture of the clam pie make it a standout choice for pizza lovers.
The clam pie is, without a doubt, the best pizza that I have ever had in my 60+ years of eating pizza. The combination of fresh clams, garlic, and cheese creates a delicious taste that is unmatched. In addition to the exceptional pizza, the beer on offer is also enjoyable, making it a well-rounded dining experience. I highly recommend trying this pizza for yourself.
The clam pie is a remarkable dish, widely regarded as one of the best pies available. It has a perfect crispy crust, and its light and airy interior makes it incredibly satisfying without being overly filling. The unique flavor and texture of the clam pie make it a standout choice for pizza lovers.
The clam pie is, without a doubt, the best pizza that I have ever had in my 60+ years of eating pizza. The combination of fresh clams, garlic, and cheese creates a delicious taste that is unmatched. In addition to the exceptional pizza, the beer on offer is also enjoyable, making it a well-rounded dining experience. I highly recommend trying this pizza for yourself.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
10. Mel's
Known for their extensive rotating tap list and knowledgeable bartenders
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A part of the renowned restaurant Del Posto has been transformed into a high-end pizzeria that has quickly become a crowd favorite. The pizzas served here are highly regarded, and I recommend trying some of their sauce sides as well. One standout dish is their clam appetizer, which I found to be quite impressive.
The new pizzeria preserves the upscale atmosphere of its predecessor, while offering a more approachable and casual dining experience. The menu features a variety of pizzas, including classic and innovative options, that are sure to satisfy any pizza lover. In addition to the pizzas, the restaurant offers a selection of appetizers and sides that showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, this pizzeria is definitely worth a visit.
A part of the renowned restaurant Del Posto has been transformed into a high-end pizzeria that has quickly become a crowd favorite. The pizzas served here are highly regarded, and I recommend trying some of their sauce sides as well. One standout dish is their clam appetizer, which I found to be quite impressive.
The new pizzeria preserves the upscale atmosphere of its predecessor, while offering a more approachable and casual dining experience. The menu features a variety of pizzas, including classic and innovative options, that are sure to satisfy any pizza lover. In addition to the pizzas, the restaurant offers a selection of appetizers and sides that showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, this pizzeria is definitely worth a visit.
11. Gene's
Features a large selection of vintage video games
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The Clams Casino at Gene's restaurant is a standout dish that should not be missed. The clams are cooked to perfection, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful experience with each bite. Another excellent seafood option is the Baked Clams Oreganata, which also delivers on taste and texture.
Gene's Clams Casino features high-quality clams filled with a savory blend of ingredients, including bacon, breadcrumbs, and herbs. The combination of flavors is expertly balanced, making for a delicious seafood experience. Similarly, the Baked Clams Oreganata are prepared with care, resulting in a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish. The oreganata topping adds a savory and aromatic element, making these clams a popular choice among diners. Overall, both dishes showcase Gene's commitment to providing high-quality and delicious seafood options.
The Clams Casino at Gene's restaurant is a standout dish that should not be missed. The clams are cooked to perfection, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful experience with each bite. Another excellent seafood option is the Baked Clams Oreganata, which also delivers on taste and texture.
Gene's Clams Casino features high-quality clams filled with a savory blend of ingredients, including bacon, breadcrumbs, and herbs. The combination of flavors is expertly balanced, making for a delicious seafood experience. Similarly, the Baked Clams Oreganata are prepared with care, resulting in a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish. The oreganata topping adds a savory and aromatic element, making these clams a popular choice among diners. Overall, both dishes showcase Gene's commitment to providing high-quality and delicious seafood options.
12. Bamonte's
Family-owned since 1900, preserving traditional Italian recipes and techniques
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The first three favorite dishes were the eggplant rollatini, as well as the two varieties of baked clams. The baked clams with prosciutto were particularly delicious. Another excellent main course option is the baked Branzino.
As starters, the standout choices included the Clams Casino, Fried Zucchini, and Stuffed Mushrooms. These options were all exceptional in their own right.
The first three favorite dishes were the eggplant rollatini, as well as the two varieties of baked clams. The baked clams with prosciutto were particularly delicious. Another excellent main course option is the baked Branzino.
As starters, the standout choices included the Clams Casino, Fried Zucchini, and Stuffed Mushrooms. These options were all exceptional in their own right.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Cheap Eats
13. Umbertos Clam House
A long-standing New York City institution since 1972
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We dined at a restaurant and ordered several dishes, including mussels, chicken and veal parmigiana, and a seafood dish, with each item priced around $25. Among the dishes we ordered, the clams stood out as excellent, consistent with our past experiences. However, the service we received during our visit was less than satisfactory.
I decided to address this issue and spoke with the manager, who remained unidentified during our conversation. I shared my thoughts about the high-quality clams but also pointed out the subpar service we experienced. It was not the first-rate experience we had come to expect from the restaurant.
We dined at a restaurant and ordered several dishes, including mussels, chicken and veal parmigiana, and a seafood dish, with each item priced around $25. Among the dishes we ordered, the clams stood out as excellent, consistent with our past experiences. However, the service we received during our visit was less than satisfactory.
I decided to address this issue and spoke with the manager, who remained unidentified during our conversation. I shared my thoughts about the high-quality clams but also pointed out the subpar service we experienced. It was not the first-rate experience we had come to expect from the restaurant.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
14. Luke's Lobster Midtown East
Committed to seafood sustainability and transparency
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The seafood selection at the restaurant was exceptional, featuring crab, shrimp, and lobster. The standout dish was the lobster, which was so delicious that the dining party planned to return for more within the week. The clam chowder was another hit, praised for its rich and hearty flavor. Its warmth and comfort made it an ideal choice for a chilly day.
Visitors to the restaurant were impressed by the quality of the seafood, specifically highlighting the crab, shrimp, and lobster dishes. The clam chowder received particular acclaim for its delicious taste and hearty texture. Given the excellence of the lobster and clam chowder, the group decades to go back to the restaurant soon to enjoy another helping. The restaurant's offerings were perfect for warming up on a cold day, notably the flavorful clam chowder.
The seafood selection at the restaurant was exceptional, featuring crab, shrimp, and lobster. The standout dish was the lobster, which was so delicious that the dining party planned to return for more within the week. The clam chowder was another hit, praised for its rich and hearty flavor. Its warmth and comfort made it an ideal choice for a chilly day.
Visitors to the restaurant were impressed by the quality of the seafood, specifically highlighting the crab, shrimp, and lobster dishes. The clam chowder received particular acclaim for its delicious taste and hearty texture. Given the excellence of the lobster and clam chowder, the group decades to go back to the restaurant soon to enjoy another helping. The restaurant's offerings were perfect for warming up on a cold day, notably the flavorful clam chowder.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
15. Grand Central Oyster Bar
Famous for its architecture and ambiance, established in 1913
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When it comes to preparing clams, it's important to note that cooking them ahead of time and then reheating them is not recommended, as this can cause them to become rubbery. Meanwhile, oysters are a delicious seafood option - in this case, they were particularly enjoyable. The cherry stone clams were a highlight, offering a unique and satisfying flavor. Additionally, the New England clam chowder stood out as a top-notch dish, offering a hearty and comforting taste of the sea.
In summary, it's best to cook clams just before serving to ensure they're tender and not rubbery. And based on this experience, oysters and New England clam chowder are definite menu recommendations. The cherry stone clams were a memorable part of the meal, and the clam chowder provided a satisfying and delicious twist on a classic dish.
When it comes to preparing clams, it's important to note that cooking them ahead of time and then reheating them is not recommended, as this can cause them to become rubbery. Meanwhile, oysters are a delicious seafood option - in this case, they were particularly enjoyable. The cherry stone clams were a highlight, offering a unique and satisfying flavor. Additionally, the New England clam chowder stood out as a top-notch dish, offering a hearty and comforting taste of the sea.
In summary, it's best to cook clams just before serving to ensure they're tender and not rubbery. And based on this experience, oysters and New England clam chowder are definite menu recommendations. The cherry stone clams were a memorable part of the meal, and the clam chowder provided a satisfying and delicious twist on a classic dish.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
16. Nick's Lobster House
Features a raw bar and a variety of lobster dishes
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Our favorite dish of the day was the baked clams, which were prepared to perfection. They were incredibly juicy and chock-full of flavor, making for a delightful start to our meal.
For our main course, we enjoyed two mouth-watering entrees. The grill salmon was served with seasoned rice and a medley of sautéed vegetables. The fish was cooked just right, and the accompanying side dishes provided a nice balance of flavors. We also indulged in a plate of angel hair pasta with white clam sauce, which was equally satisfying. The pasta was cooked al dente, and the clam sauce had a delicious and savory taste that left us craving for more.
Our favorite dish of the day was the baked clams, which were prepared to perfection. They were incredibly juicy and chock-full of flavor, making for a delightful start to our meal.
For our main course, we enjoyed two mouth-watering entrees. The grill salmon was served with seasoned rice and a medley of sautéed vegetables. The fish was cooked just right, and the accompanying side dishes provided a nice balance of flavors. We also indulged in a plate of angel hair pasta with white clam sauce, which was equally satisfying. The pasta was cooked al dente, and the clam sauce had a delicious and savory taste that left us craving for more.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Waterfront
17. Peter's Clam Bar
A well-known and established seafood restaurant with a loyal following
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Clams are a favorite food of mine, and Pete's Clam Bar is my go-to place to enjoy them. On my latest visit, I ordered 6 raw cherry stone clams and 6 raw little neck clams, followed by a helping of their highly acclaimed fried clams. The raw clams were fresh and delicious, but the fried clams were the real star of the show. I was impressed by the huge portion size, and ended up taking some home to enjoy later.
Pete's Clam Bar is well-known for its high-quality seafood, and customers consistently praise the fried seafood offerings as some of the best they have ever had. The fried clams are a must-try, with their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. The raw clams are also a great choice, providing a fresh and briny taste that is sure to satisfy any seafood lover. Whether you prefer your clams fried or raw, Pete's Clam Bar is the perfect place to indulge in your love of seafood.
Clams are a favorite food of mine, and Pete's Clam Bar is my go-to place to enjoy them. On my latest visit, I ordered 6 raw cherry stone clams and 6 raw little neck clams, followed by a helping of their highly acclaimed fried clams. The raw clams were fresh and delicious, but the fried clams were the real star of the show. I was impressed by the huge portion size, and ended up taking some home to enjoy later.
Pete's Clam Bar is well-known for its high-quality seafood, and customers consistently praise the fried seafood offerings as some of the best they have ever had. The fried clams are a must-try, with their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. The raw clams are also a great choice, providing a fresh and briny taste that is sure to satisfy any seafood lover. Whether you prefer your clams fried or raw, Pete's Clam Bar is the perfect place to indulge in your love of seafood.
18. Paul's Daughter
Iconic Coney Island destination since 1962
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Clam strips and fries are a popular choice for a casual, delicious meal. They're perfect for a quick bite, especially by the beach. The crispy exterior and tender clam meat of the clam strips make for a delightful combination.
If you're looking for a must-try dish, the fried clams are an excellent choice. With just the right amount of crispiness, they're sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, the fried clams are not to be missed.
Clam strips and fries are a popular choice for a casual, delicious meal. They're perfect for a quick bite, especially by the beach. The crispy exterior and tender clam meat of the clam strips make for a delightful combination.
If you're looking for a must-try dish, the fried clams are an excellent choice. With just the right amount of crispiness, they're sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, the fried clams are not to be missed.