This New Jersey Restaurant Serves Fried Clams That’ll Stay On Your Mind All Week

Boulevard Clams sits quietly on Long Beach Boulevard in Surf City, New Jersey, but locals know this unassuming seafood market and restaurant is one of the shore’s best-kept secrets.

Fresh catches arrive daily, and the small dining area tucked inside feels like stepping into a cozy coastal hideaway.

People travel from all over New Jersey just to taste their legendary fried clams, which are crispy, golden, and bursting with ocean flavor.

The menu is simple, the vibe is laid-back, and the seafood is as fresh as it gets.

Once you take that first bite of their whole belly fried clams, you’ll understand why visitors keep coming back year after year.

The batter is light, the clams are plump and tender, and every plate comes out hot and perfectly seasoned.

Boulevard Clams doesn’t rely on fancy decor or over-the-top presentations because the food does all the talking.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through on vacation, this spot delivers an unforgettable seafood experience that sticks with you long after you leave.

Your taste buds are about to get seriously spoiled. Trust us, these aren’t your average fried clams.

Tucked Inside a Working Seafood Market

Boulevard Clams operates as both a full-service seafood market and a casual dining spot, which means you’re literally eating surrounded by the day’s freshest catches. Glass cases display gleaming fillets, plump scallops, and live lobsters while diners enjoy their meals at cozy tables in the back.

This dual setup gives the place an authentic, no-frills charm that’s hard to find at typical shore restaurants. You can browse the market, pick up ingredients for a home-cooked feast, or simply settle in for a meal that showcases the same quality seafood sold up front.

The atmosphere feels refreshingly unpretentious, with simple decor and a focus on what really matters: exceptional food. Reggae music often plays softly in the background, adding to the relaxed, beachy vibe that makes diners feel instantly at ease.

Staff members move seamlessly between helping market customers and serving restaurant guests, creating a warm, community-oriented environment.

Many first-time visitors admit they almost drove past because the exterior doesn’t scream “restaurant,” but stepping inside reveals a delightful surprise. The smell of fresh seafood mingles with the aroma of frying clams and buttery lobster rolls, instantly whetting your appetite.

Tables fill up quickly during peak summer hours, but the turnover is efficient thanks to the attentive staff.

Eating at Boulevard Clams feels like being let in on a local secret, where the focus stays squarely on quality over flashy presentation. The market setting reinforces the restaurant’s commitment to freshness since you can see exactly where your dinner is coming from.

This unique combination of market and eatery creates an experience that feels genuine, welcoming, and deliciously different from typical boardwalk dining spots along the New Jersey coast.

Whole Belly Fried Clams That Set the Standard

When people rave about Boulevard Clams, they’re usually talking about one dish above all others: the whole belly fried clams. These aren’t your standard clam strips found at boardwalk stands.

Instead, you get plump, juicy whole clams with their bellies intact, delivering a rich, briny sweetness that clam strip lovers never experience. Each clam gets coated in a perfectly seasoned, light batter that fries up golden and crispy without overwhelming the delicate seafood inside.

The bellies add a creamy texture and concentrated ocean flavor that makes every bite memorable. Regulars insist these are some of the best fried clams on the entire East Coast, and even visitors from Massachusetts (where fried clams originated) give Boulevard Clams high marks.

The kitchen clearly understands proper frying technique because the clams arrive at your table hot, crispy on the outside, and tender within, never greasy or overdone.

One Texas couple visiting for a birthday specifically sought out Boulevard Clams for their whole belly clams and left completely satisfied. Another reviewer who grew up eating Ipswich clams in Massachusetts admitted that Boulevard Clams lived up to those legendary standards.

The portion sizes are generous, though the market price can climb higher than expected during peak season.

Pair your fried clams with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, or sweet Jersey corn for a complete shore meal. The restaurant serves them with tartar sauce and lemon wedges, letting you customize each bite to your preference.

Whether you’re a fried clam connoisseur or trying them for the first time, this signature dish represents everything Boulevard Clams does best: simple preparation, premium ingredients, and flavors that linger in your memory long after your vacation ends.

Buttery Lobster Rolls Stuffed to Perfection

Lobster rolls at Boulevard Clams have achieved near-legendary status among shore visitors and locals alike. Reviews consistently mention how these rolls are “stuffed” with fresh lobster meat, primarily sweet claw and tail pieces rather than cheaper knuckle meat or filler.

The preparation style leans Connecticut-style, meaning the lobster gets tossed in warm, melted butter rather than cold mayonnaise, allowing the natural sweetness of the shellfish to shine through.

Each roll arrives on a perfectly toasted, buttery bun that’s grilled just enough to provide a slight crunch without overpowering the star ingredient. The generous portions surprise first-timers who expect typical shore restaurant skimpiness.

One couple visiting from out of state declared it among the top five lobster rolls of their lives, praising the succulent, perfectly cooked lobster and reasonable pricing.

The simplicity of the preparation proves that Boulevard Clams sources exceptional quality lobster and trusts the ingredient to speak for itself. No unnecessary additions clutter the experience—just fresh lobster, good butter, and a quality roll.

Several reviewers mentioned returning multiple nights in a row specifically to order another lobster roll after trying other menu items.

During peak summer season, lobster rolls remain available but can sell out on busy weekends when demand outpaces supply. The restaurant maintains strict quality standards, refusing to compromise on freshness even when crowds are pressing.

One group of friends shared a lobster roll as an appetizer and immediately regretted not ordering one per person.

Whether you prefer your lobster roll warm and buttery or cold with mayo (though Boulevard Clams specializes in the former), this version represents coastal New Jersey dining at its finest. The combination of premium ingredients, expert preparation, and generous portions makes this lobster roll worth every penny and every calorie.

Premium Crab Cakes with Almost No Filler

Crab cakes can be hit-or-miss at many seafood restaurants, often padded with breadcrumbs and fillers that mask mediocre crab meat. Boulevard Clams takes a completely different approach with their family recipe crab cakes that customers describe as “all meat with almost absolutely no filler.” These aren’t your typical hockey puck-shaped cakes—they’re carefully crafted patties that showcase jumbo lump crab meat held together with just enough binding to maintain their shape.

The family recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but whatever combination of seasonings and technique they use results in crab cakes that let the sweet, delicate crab flavor dominate every bite. Reviewers who consider themselves crab cake connoisseurs admit they’ve never seen anything quite like Boulevard Clams’ version.

The exterior develops a light, golden crust while the interior stays moist and packed with visible chunks of crab.

Each order comes as a generous portion that works perfectly as an entree or shared appetizer. The kitchen broils rather than fries their crab cakes, which allows the natural flavors to shine without adding unnecessary grease.

Accompaniments typically include lemon wedges and a light sauce that complements rather than overwhelms the crab.

Families particularly appreciate how even picky eaters enjoy these crab cakes since the clean, simple preparation appeals to refined palates without any fishy aftertaste. The premium quality means prices run higher than bargain seafood joints, but the difference in taste and texture justifies the investment.

Fresh crab meat costs significantly more than filler ingredients, and Boulevard Clams refuses to cut corners.

Whether you order them as your main course or add them to a seafood platter, these crab cakes represent the restaurant’s commitment to quality over quantity. They prove that when you start with exceptional ingredients and respect traditional recipes, simple preparations often yield the most memorable results in coastal New Jersey dining.

Chunky Clam Chowder That Warms the Soul

Boulevard Clams serves both New England and Manhattan style clam chowder, giving customers the choice between creamy white or tomato-based versions. Reviewers consistently praise the “very chunky” texture, noting that both styles come loaded with tender clam pieces and hearty potato chunks rather than being mostly broth.

The New England version features a rich, creamy base that coats your spoon without feeling heavy or overly thick.

Manhattan clam chowder fans appreciate the restaurant’s tomato-based version, which balances acidity with sweetness and includes plenty of vegetables alongside generous clam portions. Either style makes an excellent starter before your main course or works as a satisfying light meal on its own.

The chowder arrives steaming hot, perfect for cooler spring or fall evenings when the shore breeze picks up.

Many customers order a cup of chowder while browsing the seafood market, enjoying it at the counter before deciding on their main meal. The homemade quality shines through in every spoonful, with none of the gluey texture or artificial flavoring found in mass-produced versions.

Fresh clams from the market case go directly into the chowder pot, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.

Portion sizes lean generous, with even the small size providing a substantial serving. The chowder pairs beautifully with the restaurant’s other offerings, and many diners start with a cup before moving on to fried clams or lobster rolls.

One traveling couple specifically mentioned the chowder as a highlight of their birthday dinner, noting how the chunky texture and fresh clam flavor exceeded their expectations.

During busy summer service, the kitchen maintains consistent quality even when orders pile up, proving their recipes and techniques hold up under pressure. Whether you’re a chowder purist or willing to try both styles, Boulevard Clams delivers soul-warming bowls that taste like they came straight from a shore grandmother’s kitchen in the best possible way.

Perfectly Prepared Scallops That Melt in Your Mouth

Fresh scallops feature prominently on Boulevard Clams’ menu, prepared several ways to suit different preferences. Whether you order them fried, broiled, or as part of the shrimp and scallop scampi, these mollusks showcase the same commitment to quality that defines everything else on the menu.

The scallops arrive plump and sweet, clearly sourced fresh rather than from frozen packages that plague lesser establishments.

Fried scallops get the same careful treatment as the famous fried clams, with a light, crispy coating that doesn’t mask the delicate seafood flavor inside. Each scallop cooks just until opaque in the center, maintaining that tender, almost buttery texture that disappears when overcooked.

Customers frequently mention how the scallops taste ocean-fresh, with none of the chemical or “off” flavors that indicate poor handling or age.

The scampi preparation bathes scallops and shrimp in garlic butter with white grape juice (since the restaurant doesn’t serve dishes with traditional cooking liquids containing certain ingredients), creating a fragrant, flavorful sauce perfect for soaking up with bread. This dish appeals to diners seeking something lighter than fried options while still enjoying the restaurant’s signature freshness.

Broiled scallops come simply prepared with butter and seasonings, letting the natural sweetness shine.

Portion sizes provide good value, with most entrees including at least six to eight large scallops depending on preparation style. The kitchen clearly understands that scallops require precise timing—too little and they’re rubbery, too much and they turn tough.

Boulevard Clams consistently nails this balance, delivering scallops that practically melt on your tongue.

Pairing scallops with other seafood items creates excellent combination platters for groups wanting to sample multiple menu offerings. The freshness and careful preparation make these scallops memorable enough that customers specifically mention them in reviews, which speaks volumes given how spectacular the fried clams and lobster rolls are at this Surf City gem.

Seasonal Operation That Keeps Quality High

Boulevard Clams operates as a seasonal restaurant, typically opening in spring and closing after summer ends, though exact dates vary by year. This seasonal schedule allows the owners and staff to focus intensely on quality during peak shore season when the freshest local catches are most abundant.

Rather than struggling through slow winter months with limited fresh supply, the restaurant shuts down and returns refreshed each spring.

The seasonal nature also means Boulevard Clams can source locally whenever possible, taking advantage of New Jersey’s excellent fishing industry during prime months. Local flounder, clams, and other catches make regular appearances on the menu when available.

This commitment to seasonal operation and local sourcing contributes significantly to the restaurant’s reputation for exceptional freshness.

Summer hours extend to accommodate vacationers, with the restaurant typically serving until 8:00 PM, though they’ve been known to seat guests arriving shortly after closing time when possible. The relaxed, accommodating attitude reflects the overall vibe—these folks genuinely care about providing great experiences rather than rushing customers out the door.

One couple arrived at 7:40 PM worried they’d missed dinner service, but staff happily seated them and other guests until 8:30 PM.

Off-season, the building sits quiet while owners plan menu updates, source new suppliers, and prepare for the next busy season. This downtime prevents staff burnout and ensures everyone returns energized and ready to deliver top-notch service.

Regular customers mark their calendars for Boulevard Clams’ opening day each spring, eager to get their first taste of the season.

The seasonal model works beautifully for a shore town like Surf City, where summer population swells dramatically before quieting down in fall. Boulevard Clams maximizes quality during peak demand rather than compromising standards to stay open year-round.

This approach keeps both the food and the experience consistently excellent, making each visit feel special rather than routine.

Friendly Service That Treats Everyone Like Family

Customer reviews consistently highlight the warm, welcoming service at Boulevard Clams, with staff treating diners like old friends even on their first visit. Servers like Brittany and Kate earn specific mentions for their friendly demeanor, helpful menu suggestions, and attentive table service.

The small size of the dining area allows staff to provide personalized attention that’s impossible at larger, busier restaurants.

Owners frequently work the floor alongside staff, greeting customers, checking on tables, and responding personally to both compliments and concerns. This hands-on approach creates accountability and ensures quality standards remain high throughout service.

One Texas couple specifically mentioned how gracious the owner/manager was during their birthday dinner, making them feel genuinely welcome despite being out-of-state visitors.

The casual, no-pressure atmosphere encourages conversation between staff and diners, with servers happy to explain menu items, suggest pairings, or share preparation details. New employees receive thorough training, as evidenced by one reviewer praising Liam’s excellent service on his very first day.

The team clearly takes pride in their work and genuinely enjoys interacting with customers.

Even during peak summer rushes when tables turn quickly and the kitchen works at full capacity, service remains friendly and efficient. Water glasses stay filled, tables get cleared promptly, and orders arrive surprisingly fast considering everything is cooked to order.

The staff balances efficiency with warmth, never making diners feel rushed despite the crowds waiting for tables.

Occasional negative reviews mention service lapses, particularly regarding greeting procedures or end-of-shift cleanup happening while guests finish meals. However, these complaints represent rare exceptions rather than typical experiences.

The overwhelming majority of customers leave impressed by how genuinely kind and helpful everyone at Boulevard Clams treats them, which enhances the already excellent food into a truly memorable dining experience at this Long Beach Island treasure.

Fresh Homemade Lemonade Worth Every Sip

Among all the seafood excellence, Boulevard Clams’ homemade lemonade earns surprising praise from customers who appreciate the perfect beverage to accompany their meals. Several reviews specifically mention the lemonade, noting its fresh-squeezed quality and perfect balance of tart and sweet.

Unlike powdered mixes or overly sugary commercial versions, this lemonade tastes like someone actually squeezed real lemons moments before serving.

The large size comes with a half lemon floating in the glass, adding visual appeal and allowing customers to adjust the tartness to their preference. On hot summer days when Surf City temperatures climb and humidity settles in, a cold glass of this lemonade provides refreshing relief between bites of fried seafood.

The bright, citrusy flavor also cuts through the richness of buttery lobster rolls or creamy chowder beautifully.

Kids particularly love the lemonade, making it an excellent option for families wanting to avoid sodas or sweetened drinks. Parents appreciate having a genuinely fresh, homemade beverage choice that doesn’t come from a soda fountain or pre-made container.

The lemonade represents the same attention to quality and freshness that defines Boulevard Clams’ food offerings.

Pricing remains reasonable despite the homemade quality, with refills available for those who can’t get enough. The lemonade pairs especially well with fried items since the acidity helps cleanse your palate between bites.

Some customers even purchase bottles to take home, though availability varies depending on how busy the restaurant is.

Small touches like fresh-squeezed lemonade demonstrate how Boulevard Clams sweats the details across every aspect of the dining experience. They could easily serve fountain drinks or powdered lemonade and most customers wouldn’t complain, but instead they choose to make everything from scratch.

This commitment to quality extends from the starring seafood dishes all the way down to the beverages, creating a consistently excellent experience that keeps people coming back to this New Jersey shore gem.

Hidden Gem Location at 2006 Long Beach Boulevard

Boulevard Clams sits at 2006 Long Beach Boulevard, Surf City, NJ 08008, in a spot that many visitors drive past multiple times before realizing it’s actually a restaurant. The building’s exterior resembles a typical seafood market, which technically it is, so first-timers often express surprise upon discovering the dining area tucked inside.

This unassuming location contributes to the “hidden gem” reputation that locals cherish and visitors rave about after stumbling upon it.

Long Beach Boulevard runs the length of Long Beach Island, making Boulevard Clams easily accessible whether you’re staying in Surf City or visiting from neighboring shore towns. The restaurant maintains its own parking lot, which proves invaluable during peak summer season when street parking becomes scarce.

Having dedicated parking eliminates the stress of circling blocks looking for spots, letting you focus on the meal ahead.

Surf City itself occupies a prime mid-island location on Long Beach Island, offering quieter, more family-friendly vibes compared to the livelier scenes in towns like Beach Haven to the south. Boulevard Clams fits perfectly into this laid-back atmosphere, providing exceptional food without pretension or inflated prices.

The central location makes it convenient for anyone exploring the island’s beaches, shops, and attractions.

A few outdoor benches provide additional seating when weather permits, perfect for enjoying takeout orders or waiting for your table during busy dinner hours. The modest exterior means Boulevard Clams relies entirely on word-of-mouth and repeat customers rather than flashy signage or tourist marketing.

This approach creates an authentic local experience even for visitors.

Finding Boulevard Clams at 2006 Long Beach Boulevard feels like discovering a secret that locals have been keeping to themselves, though the packed parking lot during summer evenings suggests the secret is definitely out. The location perfectly captures the essence of Long Beach Island dining: casual, unpretentious, and focused entirely on delivering outstanding fresh seafood in a welcoming environment that keeps customers coming back year after year.