Best Fried Clams at Chain Restaurants: Ranked 2024 | Eat This Not That
For many along the East Coast, fried clams are a quintessential summer indulgence, a taste of the seaside even when miles inland. While a trip to a dedicated clam shack is ideal, sometimes a craving strikes when you’re already on the road or simply looking for a familiar, reliably tasty meal. Fortunately, several chain restaurants offer surprisingly excellent fried clam strips, served alongside the classic accompaniments of french fries, coleslaw, and, of course, tartar sauce. Here’s a look at seven spots where you can satisfy that craving.
Mac’s Seafood: A Novel England Tradition
Based in Massachusetts, Mac’s Seafood has built a reputation for its excellent fried clams. Diners consistently praise their Fried Whole Belly Clams, noting the tender texture and satisfying crunch. One Yelp reviewer raved about the “awesome fried clams with bellies,” adding that the fries were similarly “delicious.” Mac’s offers a variety of options, including clam strips and a full fisherman’s platter, all served with fries, coleslaw, and a slice of lemon. The quality stems from a commitment to fresh ingredients and careful preparation – a welcome change from frozen options found elsewhere.
Flo’s Clam Shack: Rhode Island’s Beloved Spot
If you find yourself in Rhode Island, Flo’s Clam Shack is a must-visit. Known for its “World Famous Fried Clams” and Tendersweet Clam Strips, Flo’s offers a classic New England seafood experience. Beyond the clams themselves, the restaurant’s Fisherman’s Platter – a generous combination of fried clams, clam strips, calamari, shrimp, scallops, and fish – is a popular choice. Customers also recommend pairing their meal with a clamcake and homemade coleslaw.
Captain D’s: A Familiar Favorite
Captain D’s provides a convenient and affordable option for fried clam lovers. Their Clam Strips, served with D’s Dippin Sauce, are a staple on the menu. While the sauce is a popular choice, tartar sauce is readily available for those who prefer a more traditional pairing. One diner shared on Facebook their enjoyment of Captain D’s, specifically praising the clam strips and the accompanying sauce. The chain’s widespread presence makes it an accessible option for a quick seafood fix.
D.J.’s Clam Shack: Guy Fieri Approved
Recognized by Guy Fieri on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” D.J.’s Clam Shack has gained a loyal following along the East Coast. While the fried clams weren’t the featured dish during Fieri’s visit, customers consistently recommend them. D.J.’s offers both whole belly clams and clam strips, served with fries and coleslaw. One diner highlighted the quality of both the clams and the fries, describing them as “crispy and delicious.” With locations spanning from New York to Florida, and even a spot in Minnesota, D.J.’s offers a wider geographic reach than many other regional clam shacks.
Legal Sea Foods: New England Style
Legal Sea Foods, a New England institution, offers Crispy Fried Whole Belly Clams sourced directly from the region. Prepared in the traditional New England style, or with a Cajun twist, these clams are served with french fries and coleslaw. A Yelp reviewer described them as “the BEST fried clams” they’d ever tasted, emphasizing the clams’ tenderness and the overall quality of the dish.
Friendly’s: A Classic Diner Option
For a more casual experience, Friendly’s offers a Clam Strips Platter that consistently receives positive reviews. Served with tartar sauce, fries, lemon, and coleslaw, it’s a satisfying meal for those craving a taste of the sea. One diner on Yelp praised both the clam chowder and the clam strips, making it a solid choice for a complete seafood meal.
Long John Silver’s: A Budget-Friendly Choice
Long John Silver’s provides a budget-friendly option for those seeking fried clam strips. Their breaded clam strips are a popular menu item, and the restaurant’s signature tartar sauce is the perfect accompaniment. While not a dedicated seafood restaurant, Long John Silver’s offers a convenient and affordable way to satisfy a craving for fried clams.
the “best” fried clam strips are a matter of personal preference. Although, these seven chain restaurants offer consistently good options that are worth considering the next time a craving strikes.