1. Legal Sea Foods
Known for its classic New England seafood, Legal Sea Foods serves up a creamy clam chowder that's always packed with clams. It's been a staple at presidential inaugurations since 1981, representing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
2. Matunuck Oyster Bar
Located in Rhode Island, Matunuck Oyster Bar is renowned for its fresh shellfish, harvested on-site. Their classic chowder is thick with cream and studded with potatoes, providing a sweetly savory taste.
3. Oyster Club
Helmed by James Beard Foundation nominee Renee Toupounce, Oyster Club in Mystic, Connecticut, offers classic and Rhode Island-style chowders made with locally sourced ingredients, including quahog clams, salt pork, and potatoes.
4. Row 34
With locations in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, Row 34 is known for its extensive beer list and raw bar. Their creamy clam chowder is packed with clams and bacon, served with house-made "saltines."
5. Eventide
This small operation in Boston and Portland, Maine, has earned multiple awards for its pristine oysters, lobster rolls, and creamy clam chowder, which is studded with salt pork and potatoes and served with saltines.
6. Kelly's Roast Beef
A casual New England favorite with locations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Florida, Kelly's Roast Beef specializes in hearty roast beef sandwiches and clam chowder made fresh daily with chopped sea clams, white potatoes, onions, butter, and light cream.
6. Kelly's Roast Beef
A casual New England favorite with locations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Florida, Kelly's Roast Beef specializes in hearty roast beef sandwiches and clam chowder made fresh daily with chopped sea clams, white potatoes, onions, butter, and light cream.
7. The Banks Fish House
One of the best new seafood restaurants in Boston, The Banks Fish House serves a classic New England clam chowder seasoned with Berkshire pork belly and chive oil, offering an indulgent dining experience.