The Best Spots for Clam Chowder in Boston

Chowder at Legal Sea Foods - Harborside
TripAdvisor / Legal Sea Foods

Boston is renowned for its rich history, charming neighborhoods, and, of course, its delicious seafood. One dish that truly encapsulates the city’s maritime heritage is clam chowder. Whether you prefer the creamy, milky New England style or the heartier Manhattan-style, Boston offers a plethora of establishments serving up this iconic soup. Join us as we explore the best spots to savor the flavors of Boston clam chowder.

The Pearl: South Bay Staple

The Pearl
Google Maps / Mark Richter

The Pearl is a charming seafood restaurant located in Boston’s South Bay neighborhood. Known for its upscale ambiance and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, The Pearl offers a sophisticated take on classic New England cuisine. Their clam chowder is a standout dish, but don’t forget to try other items on the menu like their shrimp scampi and chargrilled oysters!

B&G Oysters: Gourmet Details

B&G Oysters
Yelp

B&G Oysters is a beloved seafood institution in Boston’s South End neighborhood. While primarily known for their fresh oysters, their clam chowder is equally impressive. The B&G clam chowder is a classic New England-style, featuring a creamy broth packed with tender clams and potatoes. The addition of chopped scallions adds a bright, herbaceous note to the dish and their house-made crackers are a fan favorite. 

Eventide Fenway: Elevated Classics

Eventide Fenway
Instagram / eventidefenway

Eventide Fenway is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Boston’s Fenway neighborhood. Known for their innovative approach to seafood, Eventide Fenway offers a truly memorable New England style clam chowder that is visually stunning and has an elevated taste and. Their signature Brown Butter Lobster Roll is also a must-try. Located just steps away from Fenway Park, Eventide Fenway is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal before or after a baseball game.

Yankee Lobster: Classic Clam Chowder

Yankee Lobster
TripAdvisor / Reign68

Yankee Lobster, a classic New England seafood restaurant located in Boston’s North End, offers a traditional and satisfying dining experience. Their clam chowder, a staple of their menu, is a rich and creamy delight, made with the finest local ingredients. The combination of tender clams, hearty potatoes, and flavorful broth creates a comforting and delicious dish that perfectly captures the essence of New England cuisine. Yankee Lobster’s warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Boston clam chowder experience.

Legal Sea Foods
TripAdvisor

Legal Harborside, a classic seafood restaurant located on Boston’s Inner Harbor, offers a stunning waterfront setting and a menu filled with fresh, locally sourced seafood. Their clam chowder is a standout dish, featuring a rich and creamy broth that is packed with tender clams and potatoes. The restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and innovative cooking techniques ensures that each bowl of chowder is a truly exceptional experience. Legal Harborside’s sleek interior and panoramic views of Boston Harbor make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable culinary adventure.

The Banks Fish House: Inner Harbor Chowder

The Banks Fish House
Yelp / The Banks Seafood and Steak

The warm and elegant atmosphere at The Banks Fish House isn’t the only thing drawing tourists to the seafood restaurant. Besides their clam chowder, which is topped with savory bacon, chives, oyster crackers and a buttery roll, they also serve a Chowder flatbread that comes topped with clams, bacon and crème fraîche. Other favorite dishes on their menu include fish tacos, fried artichokes and a lobster bake that is sure to impress any seafood lover.

Row 34: Seafood Market and Restaurant

Row 34
Yelp / Connie L.

Row 34, a popular seafood market and restaurant located in Boston’s Seaport District, offers a fresh and vibrant dining experience. Their clam chowder is a standout dish, featuring a rich and creamy broth that is packed with tender clams and potatoes. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients ensures that each bowl of chowder is a truly satisfying experience. Row 34’s casual atmosphere and stunning waterfront views make it a perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal, including their iconic clam chowder, lobster bisque, or lobster rolls.

Saltie Girl: A Modern Seafood Haven

Saltie Girl
Yelp / Grace L.

Saltie Girl, a trendy seafood restaurant located in Boston’s Back Bay, offers a modern twist on classic New England cuisine. Their clam chowder is a standout dish, featuring a rich and creamy broth that is packed with tender clams and potatoes. The restaurant’s stylish interior and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Saltie Girl’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that each bowl of chowder is a truly satisfying experience.

Hook + Line: Contemporary Clam Chowder

Hook + Line
Instagram / hook_line_bos

Hook + Line, a modern seafood restaurant located in Boston’s Seaport District, offers a contemporary take on classic New England cuisine. Their clam chowder is a standout dish, featuring a rich and creamy broth that is packed with tender clams and potatoes. The restaurant’s sleek interior and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, providing a stylish setting to enjoy a delicious bowl of clam chowder, among their many other seafood dishes.

The Barking Crab: A Casual Waterfront Gem

The Barking Crab
Yelp / Miss E.

The Barking Crab, a popular waterfront restaurant in Boston’s North End, offers a casual and laid-back atmosphere. Their clam chowder, a classic New England style, is a standout dish. The rich, creamy broth is packed with tender clams and potatoes, creating a satisfying and flavorful soup. The restaurant’s outdoor seating provides stunning views of Boston Harbor, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a delicious bowl of chowder on a sunny day.

James Hook & Co.: Waterfront Chowder Experience

James Hook & Co.
Yelp / Cindy Y.

James Hook & Co., located on Boston’s Inner Harbor, offers a great waterfront dining experience. This seafood market and restaurant is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, including the clams in their delicious clam chowder. Their New England-style chowder is a creamy, hearty delight, made with the finest ingredients. Enjoy your bowl of chowder while taking in the stunning views of Boston Harbor, making it a memorable culinary experience.

Ned Devine’s: A Modern Take on a Classic

Ned Devine's chowder
Yelp / Sherry L.

Ned Devine’s, a modern Irish pub located in the South End, offers a fresh take on traditional Boston cuisine. Their clam chowder, while adhering to the classic New England style, incorporates contemporary twists. The creamy broth is infused with subtle flavors, elevating the dish without compromising its authenticity. Ned Devine’s offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that caters to both locals and tourists, making it a great spot to enjoy a delicious bowl of clam chowder.

Union Oyster House: A Boston Chowder Institution

Union Oyster House
Yelp / Ann S.

Union Oyster House, established in 1826, is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States. As a Boston institution, it is synonymous with seafood excellence. Their clam chowder, a classic New England style, is a must-try. The rich, creamy broth is packed with tender clams and potatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful experience. Union Oyster House’s historic atmosphere and commitment to traditional recipes make it a timeless choice for those seeking authentic Boston clam chowder.

Neptune Oyster: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise

Neptune Oyster
Yelp / David G.

Neptune Oyster, a popular seafood destination in Boston’s North End, is renowned for its fresh, high-quality seafood. Their clam chowder is no exception. The restaurant’s New England-style chowder is a creamy, hearty delight, bursting with flavor. The combination of tender clams, rich cream, and subtle spices makes it a standout among Boston’s clam chowder offerings. Neptune Oyster’s commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients ensures that each bowl of chowder is a truly satisfying experience.

The Warren Tavern: A Historic Clam Chowder Haven

The Warren Tavern
Yelp / Dani C.

The Warren Tavern, a historic landmark dating back to 1766, is not only a piece of Boston’s history but also a culinary gem. This tavern, frequented by American revolutionaries like Paul Revere, offers a classic New England clam chowder experience. Their rich, creamy chowder, packed with tender clams and potatoes, is a testament to traditional recipes. The tavern’s warm atmosphere and historical ambiance make it a must-visit for those seeking a truly authentic Boston clam chowder experience.

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