Pack your appetite and a bit of wanderlust because we’re setting off on a culinary road trip through the charming nooks of Rhode Island. This petite state may be small in size but it boasts a big reputation for its clam bars, each offering a unique taste of the Ocean State.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a new adventure, these ten spots will have you reimagining what it means to enjoy clams by the coast.
1. Flo’s Clam Shack
Flo’s Clam Shack, nestled in Middletown since 1936, is as iconic as they come. With its charming retro vibe, it’s the perfect place to feel the ocean breeze while munching on legendary clam strips. Flo’s isn’t just about food; it’s an experience, with views of Easton’s Beach complementing every bite.
You’ll find locals and tourists alike waxing poetic about their clam cakes and rich chowder, offering a savory escape from the ordinary. It’s a portal to simpler times, where flavors are authentic and the sea’s whispers provide the soundtrack.
As you savor your meal, imagine the generations who have sat here before, each creating their own memories by the sea. For a taste that’s steeped in history and flavor, Flo’s is a must-stop on your coastal journey.
2. Blount Clam Shack & Market
At Blount Clam Shack & Market in Warren, seafood dreams come true. Perched on the scenic waterfront, this spot is the epitome of laid-back charm. The star of the show is undoubtedly the giant lobster roll, packed with half a pound of luscious lobster meat.
The clam cakes and chowder are not to be missed, each bite a celebration of fresh, local ingredients. Blount combines the casual air of a seaside eatery with the quality of an upscale restaurant.
Wander the market to take home some of their delicacies, prolonging the enjoyment of your visit. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful journey along the water’s edge, where every dish tells a story of Rhode Island’s rich maritime heritage.
3. Aunt Carrie’s Restaurant, Ice Cream and Gift Shoppe
Since 1920, Aunt Carrie’s has been serving up nostalgia alongside its famous clam cakes. Located in Narragansett, this charming spot is a culinary institution, beloved by generations of families seeking tasty traditions.
Its unassuming exterior belies the treasures within. Each clam cake is a crispy delight, paired perfectly with their smooth, creamy chowder. Aunt Carrie’s offers more than just food; it’s a slice of Rhode Island history.
Don’t forget to grab a scoop of ice cream from the shoppe, a sweet ending to a delightful meal. With a setting that feels like stepping into a vintage postcard, Aunt Carrie’s is where past meets present in delicious harmony.
4. Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House
Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House in Warwick is a celebration of Rhode Island’s seafood traditions. Famous for its doughboys; delicious fried dough confections; this spot is a feast for the senses.
With more than 6000 rave reviews, Iggy’s is more than just a local favorite; it’s a culinary landmark. Their clam chowder is a creamy masterpiece, capturing the essence of the sea in each spoonful.
The lively atmosphere makes it a fun stop for families and friends alike. Pair your meal with the stunning bay views, and you’ll understand why Iggy’s has earned its legendary status. Here, every visit is a savory adventure.
5. Monahan’s Clam Shack by the Cove
Monahan’s Clam Shack by the Cove in Charlestown is where the magic of the sea meets the charm of a rustic shack. With picturesque harbor views, it’s an idyllic spot to devour fresh seafood delights.
The clam cakes and chowder are simply irresistible, each bite bursting with flavor and authenticity. Monahan’s is a seasonal gem, offering a taste of summer that lingers long after the meal is over.
Lobster rolls here are a must-try, each one a testament to the bounty of the sea. As you savor your meal, the gentle lapping of the waves sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
6. Champlin’s Seafood Deck
Champlin’s Seafood Deck in Narragansett offers more than just a meal; it offers a feast for the eyes and the palate. Perched above the marina, it provides sweeping views of the ocean that enhance every bite of their fresh seafood offerings.
The clam cakes and chowder are crowd favorites, but it’s the seafood platters that steal the show; each a cornucopia of oceanic delights. Champlin’s is where casual dining meets culinary excellence.
As the sun sets, the deck becomes a magical place, with the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. Champlin’s serves up not just great food but unforgettable moments by the sea.
7. George’s of Galilee
George’s of Galilee, with its unbeatable beachside location, is a beacon for seafood lovers. Located right on the sand, it combines breathtaking views with an expansive menu that celebrates the ocean’s bounty.
Their clam cakes and chowder are a must-try, offering a taste of Rhode Island’s culinary heritage. George’s also boasts a variety of seafood dishes, each as fresh as the salty breeze that accompanies your meal.
With live music on the weekends, it transforms into a lively spot where the atmosphere is as vibrant as the flavors. George’s is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience where the sea, sand, and sky come together.
8. Evelyn’s Drive-In
Evelyn’s Drive-In in Tiverton is a delightful throwback to simpler times. With its vintage vibe and mouthwatering clam cakes, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a classic coastal experience.
The waterfront setting adds to its charm, where every meal feels like a nostalgic journey. Evelyn’s offers more than just good food; it provides a slice of Americana, where the past feels ever-present.
The chowder here is a creamy dream, each spoonful a testament to Rhode Island’s seafood prowess. With its blend of old-fashioned charm and delicious dishes, Evelyn’s is a must-visit on any coastal drive.
9. The Matunuck Oyster Bar
The Matunuck Oyster Bar in South Kingstown is where elegance meets maritime heritage. Famous for its oysters, it’s also a haven for clam enthusiasts, offering dishes that showcase the ocean’s finest.
With its sleek waterfront setting, dining here feels like a special occasion. The clam cakes are a revelation, each one a savory masterpiece that pairs perfectly with their exquisite chowder.
The farm-to-table ethos permeates every dish, ensuring freshness and flavor with every bite. The Matunuck Oyster Bar isn’t just a meal; it’s a dining experience that captivates the senses and celebrates the sea.
10. Duffy’s Tavern
Duffy’s Tavern in North Kingstown is where comfort meets tradition. This cozy spot is a beloved local haunt, known for its warm atmosphere and top-notch clam dishes.
The clam cakes here are legendary, drawing seafood lovers from all around. Each bite is a warm embrace, offering a taste of home that lingers long after you leave.
The tavern’s rustic charm and friendly service make every visit feel like a family gathering. At Duffy’s, it’s not just about the food; it’s about the connections made over shared meals and laughter.
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