Clam chowder is a staple on the menus of restaurants all over Boston, Massachusetts, but not all chowders are made equal. Here are four of the best places to sample this tasty New England dish.
Neptune Oyster
Neptune Oyster on Salem Street is a cozy place with marble-topped tables and gleaming subway-style tiles that give it a retro charm. Given its small dining room and popularity, you may have to wait for a table or a seat at the bar. While you’re waiting, you can salivate over the awesome variety of fresh oysters on ice in the window display.
The clam chowder is made fresh to order with Wellfleet cherrystone clams. Although it’s thinner than others, it’s beautifully flavored with clam stock, salt pork, and bechamel. For your entree, you could have North End Cioppino, whole Rockport mackerel, Nantucket swordfish, or the clambake.
The Warren Tavern
Hailed as the oldest tavern in Massachusetts, The Warren Tavern on Pleasant Street in Charlestown was built in 1780 and has catered for historic figures such as George Washington, Paul Revere, and Benjamin Franklin. Walking into the tavern is like stepping back in time with its low ceilings, oak beams, and wood and tile floors
Among the appetizers is the New England clam chowder, which is spiced up with black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco. You’ll also find Parmesan truffle fries, Fenway egg rolls, and steamed mussels. Main dishes include short rib shepherd’s pie, Seafood Fra Diavolo, and Tavern Steak Fries. Alternatively, chose from the range of burgers and sandwiches.
Atlantic Fish Company
Located on Boyiston Street, the Atlantic Fish Company has been serving the freshest seafood for more than 40 years. The dining room has an upscale feel with wood paneling and crisp white table linen, or weather permitting, you can eat on the outdoor patio. All of the seafood is locally sourced and won’t have been out of the water for more than two days.
The recipe for their creamy clam chowder is as old as the business and, while it’s traditionally served in a cup, you can have an extra treat by having it in a bread bowl. The menu is changed daily to suit the fish catch, but the lobster bisque, lobster ravioli, and Lobster Fra Diavolo are highly recommended if available.
Boston Chowda Company
The family-owned and operated Boston Chowder Company is situated in Faneuil Hall of the historic and bustling Quincy Market building. Being in a touristic area, it’s usually busy, but the friendly and efficient servers work hard to keep the line to a minimum. Once you have your food, the hall has standing tables and a seating area under the famous gilded dome.
You can get the award-winning clam chowder in every size from an eight-ounce cup to a gallon to take home, or you can opt for the delicious bread bowl. A variety of soups, chowders, pot pies, and sandwiches are available daily. Don’t miss the lobster roll.
These are just a few of the best seafood spots in Boston that serve clam chowder. Explore the city and you might find your own favorite place.
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