New York City, a culinary melting pot, boasts an impressive array of seafood options. Among these treasures, clams shine brightly, prepared in countless delicious ways. Whether you crave the classic clam chowder, the briny taste of steamed clams, or the elegant presentation of littleneck clams on the half shell, NYC has a spot for you. This guide explores 18 of the best places to indulge in the delectable world of clams within the five boroughs. We'll cover everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, ensuring you find the perfect clam experience to suit your taste and budget.
Manhattan Clam Havens: From Casual Bites to Fine Dining
Manhattan, the heart of NYC, offers a diverse range of clam experiences. Here are some top picks:
Upscale Elegance:
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The Lobster Club: This sophisticated spot serves impeccably fresh seafood, including perfectly prepared clam dishes. Expect a refined atmosphere and top-notch service. Their Manhattan Clam Chowder is a classic, rich and creamy. (Price Range: $$)
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Gaonnuri: Known for its upscale Korean cuisine, Gaonnuri surprisingly offers some amazing clam dishes, highlighting the versatility of this shellfish in diverse culinary traditions. Try their Seafood Paella – a showstopper featuring succulent clams. (Price Range: $$)
Mid-Range Marvels:
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Grand Central Oyster Bar: A classic New York institution, this grand hall offers a wide selection of oysters, clams, and other seafood. Their steamed clams are a must-try, capturing the pure essence of the ocean. (Price Range: $$)
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Esca: This acclaimed Italian restaurant prides itself on its commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their Spaghetti alle Vongole is a testament to their culinary expertise, a delicate balance of flavors. (Price Range: $$)
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Lilia: This beloved Brooklyn restaurant (technically just across the bridge!) has earned a reputation for its exceptional pasta. Their clam dishes showcase the simplicity and quality of their ingredients. Consider their Clams with Calabrian Chili. (Price Range: $$)
Casual Clam Cravings:
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John's of Bleecker Street: A New York institution serving classic Italian-American fare. Their clam dishes are generous and satisfying. They make a mean Clam Pizza! (Price Range: $)
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The Clam: This Greenwich Village gem, as the name suggests, specializes in clams. They offer a variety of preparations, from steamed clams to clam rolls. (Price Range: $)
Brooklyn's Best Clam Bars and Beyond
Brooklyn's vibrant culinary scene features a fantastic selection of restaurants offering delightful clam dishes:
Elevated Clam Experiences:
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Cecconi's Dumbo: With its stunning waterfront views, Cecconi's offers a sophisticated dining experience, including some elegant clam preparations. (Price Range: $$)
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Prime Meats: This popular steakhouse surprisingly also serves delicious clams. The pairing of steak and clams is a unique culinary adventure! (Price Range: $$)
Casual and Cool:
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Juliana's Pizza: A Brooklyn pizza institution known for its classic New York-style pies. While not strictly a clam restaurant, their clam pizza is highly rated. (Price Range: $)
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Grimaldi's Pizzeria: Another iconic Brooklyn pizzeria, Grimaldi’s also offers a fantastic clam pizza, perfect for a casual clam craving. (Price Range: $)
Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island: Hidden Clam Gems
While Manhattan and Brooklyn often steal the spotlight, the other boroughs offer hidden gems for clam lovers:
Queens:
- Taverna Kyclades: This Astoria staple offers a fantastic selection of Greek seafood, including exceptional clam dishes. (Price Range: $)
Bronx:
- City Island: This charming waterfront area is home to several seafood restaurants boasting fresh clams. It's worth exploring the various options to find your personal favorite. (Price Range: Varies)
Staten Island:
- Finding great clam spots on Staten Island requires a bit more searching, but local seafood restaurants often feature fresh catches of the day, including clams. Check local reviews and guides. (Price Range: Varies)
Tips for Finding the Perfect Clam Dish in NYC
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Seasonality: Clams are best during their peak season (typically spring and summer). Look for restaurants that source their seafood locally and seasonally.
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Freshness: Always inquire about the source of the clams. Fresh clams should have a sweet, briny smell, and their shells should be tightly closed.
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Preparation: Clams can be prepared in countless ways – from steamed clams with garlic and white wine to clam chowder to fried clams. Choose a preparation that suits your preference.
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Reviews: Before you go, check online reviews to see what other diners have to say about the restaurant's clam dishes.
This guide highlights just a fraction of the fantastic clam options available in NYC. With a little exploration, you're sure to discover your own personal favorite clam haven in the city that never sleeps. Happy clam hunting!
