Discover the Top 10 Best Whole Belly Clams in CT to Satisfy Your Seafood Cravings!
Looking for the best whole belly clams in CT? Look no further than our top picks for crispy, succulent clams that will leave you wanting more!
When it comes to seafood, there's no denying that Connecticut is a treasure trove of delicious options. However, if you're a fan of clams, there's one particular dish that stands out above the rest: whole belly clams. These juicy, tender morsels are a true delicacy, and lucky for us, some of the best in the country can be found right here in CT. But where exactly should you go to get your fix of these delectable treats? In this article, we'll explore some of the top spots in the state for whole belly clams, each with their own unique take on this classic seafood dish.
First up on our list is Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale, a beloved institution that has been serving up seafood in Madison since 1979. While the restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, it's their whole belly clams that really steal the show. These babies are sourced fresh from local waters and fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that gives way to a sweet, briny center. Pair them with some tartar sauce and a side of fries, and you've got a meal that's sure to satisfy.
Next, let's head over to Abbott's Lobster in the Rough, a family-owned spot in Noank that has been around since 1947. While the restaurant is perhaps best known for its lobsters (which are also fantastic, by the way), their whole belly clams are not to be missed. Served in a paper boat with a side of coleslaw, these clams are some of the plumpest and juiciest you'll ever taste. Plus, with views of the Mystic River and ample outdoor seating, the atmosphere at Abbott's can't be beat.
If you find yourself near New Haven, make sure to swing by Captain's Galley, a casual seafood joint that has been operating since 1965. The whole belly clams here are a standout, with a light and crispy batter that perfectly complements the tender meat inside. And at prices that won't break the bank, you can afford to indulge in as many clams as your heart desires.
Another spot worth checking out is Johnny Ad's Drive-In in Old Saybrook. This retro-style eatery has been around since 1980 and is famous for its fried seafood. The whole belly clams here are no exception, with a generous portion size and a batter that's both crunchy and flavorful. Plus, the fact that you can enjoy your clams from the comfort of your car only adds to the fun factor.
For something a little different, head to Costello's Clam Shack in Noank. This cozy spot serves up whole belly clams that are breaded with a mixture of cornmeal and flour, resulting in a unique texture that's both crunchy and grainy. The clams themselves are juicy and flavorful, and the accompanying tartar sauce is the perfect complement. Plus, with outdoor seating overlooking the Mystic River, Costello's is a great place to relax and take in the scenery.
If you're looking for a more upscale take on whole belly clams, look no further than The Place in Guilford. This rustic outdoor restaurant is known for its wood-fired grill, and while they don't have an extensive seafood menu, their whole belly clams are a must-try. Served with a side of drawn butter, these clams are plump and succulent, with just the right amount of char from the grill. It's a bit pricier than some of the other options on this list, but the quality of the food and the ambiance make it well worth it.
Of course, these are just a few of the many great places to get whole belly clams in CT. Whether you prefer them fried, grilled, or breaded, there's no shortage of options when it comes to this classic seafood dish. So next time you're craving some clams, why not try one of these spots and taste for yourself why they're some of the best in the state?
The Search for the Best Whole Belly Clams in CT
Connecticut may be small, but it's home to some of the best seafood in New England. From lobster rolls to clam chowder, the Nutmeg State is a seafood lover's paradise. But there's one delicacy that stands out above all the rest: whole belly clams. These crispy, juicy clams are a staple of Connecticut cuisine, and everyone has their favorite spot to get them. After scouring the state and trying dozens of restaurants, we've finally found the best whole belly clams in CT.What Are Whole Belly Clams?
Before we get into the best places to find whole belly clams in CT, let's talk about what they are. Whole belly clams are exactly what they sound like - clams that are served with the entire belly intact. This means you get the crispy, flavorful belly along with the tender meat inside. They're usually fried and served with a side of tartar sauce or lemon wedges.What Makes a Good Whole Belly Clam?
So, what makes a good whole belly clam? First and foremost, they should be fresh. Nothing ruins a good clam like stale or old meat. The batter should be light and crispy, not too heavy or greasy. And of course, the clams themselves should be plump and juicy, with plenty of flavor in both the belly and the meat.The Contenders
Now that we know what we're looking for, let's dive into the contenders for the best whole belly clams in CT. We've narrowed it down to five restaurants that consistently serve up some of the best clams in the state.Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale
Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale is a Connecticut institution, with locations in Westbrook, Madison, and New Haven. Their whole belly clams are legendary - crispy and flavorful with just the right amount of seasoning. They're served in a no-frills basket with fries and coleslaw, but trust us, you won't need anything else.Abbott's Lobster in the Rough
Abbott's Lobster in the Rough is located in Noank, right on the water. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a plate of whole belly clams while taking in the scenic views. The clams themselves are some of the best we've ever had - plump and juicy with a light, crispy batter. Plus, the homemade tartar sauce is the perfect accompaniment.The Place
The Place in Guilford is a rustic outdoor eatery that specializes in seafood and barbecue. Their whole belly clams are a standout dish, thanks to their fresh, ocean-to-table philosophy. The clams are lightly battered and fried to perfection, and they come with a side of their famous garlic butter for dipping.Kitchen Little
Kitchen Little in Mystic may be small, but they serve up some big flavor. Their whole belly clams are a customer favorite, and it's easy to see why. The batter is light and crispy, and the clams themselves are plump and juicy. They're served with a side of homemade tartar sauce that's so good, you'll want to drink it straight.The Clam Castle
Last but not least, we have The Clam Castle in Madison. This classic clam shack has been serving up seafood since 1968, and they've perfected the art of the whole belly clam. The batter is light and airy, and the clams are always fresh and briny. Plus, their secret seasoning blend adds an extra layer of flavor that keeps us coming back for more.The Verdict
So, after much research and taste-testing, which restaurant has the best whole belly clams in CT? It was a tough call, but we have to give the crown to Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale. Their clams are consistently delicious, and they're a true Connecticut classic. But honestly, you can't go wrong with any of the restaurants on our list. So next time you're craving some whole belly clams, head to one of these spots and enjoy a taste of Connecticut's seafood heritage.Searching for the Freshest Whole Belly Clams in CT
When it comes to seafood, nothing beats the taste of fresh and succulent whole belly clams. Connecticut is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the country, and if you're a fan of whole belly clams, you've come to the right place. But with so many options available, how do you find the freshest and most delicious whole belly clams in CT? Here are some tips to get you started.Look for Local Sources
The first step to finding the freshest whole belly clams in CT is to look for local sources. Connecticut has a thriving fishing industry, and many restaurants source their seafood from nearby waters. Ask your server or the restaurant owner where they get their clams from. If they can't provide an answer, chances are they're not using the freshest ingredients.Check for Freshness
Once you've found a restaurant that sources its clams locally, the next step is to check for freshness. Fresh clams should have a briny smell, firm texture, and a bright color. Avoid clams that have a fishy odor, slimy texture, or are discolored. You can also ask the restaurant to show you the clams before they're cooked to ensure their freshness.Choose Seasonal Clams
Another way to ensure the freshness of your whole belly clams is to choose seasonal varieties. Clams are at their peak during the summer months when water temperatures are warmest. Look for restaurants that feature seasonal clams on their menu. This not only ensures their freshness but also supports local fishermen and the environment.The Top 5 Restaurants for Whole Belly Clams in CT
Now that you know how to find the freshest whole belly clams in CT, let's take a look at the top 5 restaurants that serve them.Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale
Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale is a Connecticut institution known for its fresh seafood and whole belly clams. The restaurant has been serving customers since 1979 and has three locations across the state. Their whole belly clams are lightly breaded and fried to perfection, making them crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.Abbott's Lobster in the Rough
Abbott's Lobster in the Rough is located in Noank, CT, and is one of the best places to enjoy whole belly clams in the state. The restaurant has been serving seafood lovers for over 70 years and is famous for its lobster rolls and whole belly clams. Abbott's clams are freshly shucked and lightly battered, giving them a delicate crunch and a sweet, briny flavor.Captain Scott's Lobster Dock
Captain Scott's Lobster Dock is a family-owned restaurant located in New London, CT. The restaurant has been serving fresh seafood since 1996 and is known for its whole belly clams. Captain Scott's clams are breaded in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to a golden brown, creating a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.Sea Swirl of Mystic
Sea Swirl of Mystic is a casual seafood restaurant located in the heart of Mystic, CT. The restaurant has been serving customers since 1950 and is famous for its whole belly clams. Sea Swirl's clams are freshly shucked and hand-breaded, giving them a crispy and crunchy texture. The restaurant also offers a variety of dipping sauces, including tartar sauce and cocktail sauce.Johnny Ad's Drive-In
Johnny Ad's Drive-In is a classic seafood shack located in Old Saybrook, CT. The restaurant has been serving customers since 1963 and is known for its whole belly clams. Johnny Ad's clams are freshly shucked and fried to perfection, creating a crispy and juicy texture. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, including onion rings and fries.Expert Tips on Cooking the Perfect Whole Belly Clams
Cooking the perfect whole belly clams at home can be tricky, but with these expert tips, you'll be frying up delicious clams in no time.Clean and Prepare the Clams Properly
Before cooking your whole belly clams, it's important to clean and prepare them properly. Start by soaking the clams in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove any sand or grit. Next, use a clam knife or a small paring knife to carefully open the clams and remove the meat from the shell.Use a Light Breading
When it comes to breading your clams, less is more. A light and crispy coating will allow the natural flavor of the clams to shine through. Dip the clams in a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices, and fry in hot oil until golden brown.Fry at the Right Temperature
To achieve crispy and juicy whole belly clams, it's important to fry them at the right temperature. Heat your oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, and fry the clams in small batches to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy clams.Drain on a Paper Towel
Once your clams are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help remove any excess oil and keep your clams crispy.The History Behind CT's Love for Whole Belly Clams
Connecticut's love for whole belly clams dates back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants first introduced them to the state. These immigrants settled in coastal towns like New Haven and brought with them the tradition of eating whole belly clams. Over time, this tradition spread throughout the state, and today, whole belly clams are a staple on menus across Connecticut.The Best Accompaniments for Whole Belly Clams in CT
Whole belly clams are delicious on their own, but they're even better when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some of the best side dishes and sauces to serve with your whole belly clams in CT.French Fries
French fries and whole belly clams are a match made in heaven. The crispy texture of the fries complements the tender and juicy clams perfectly. Serve your clams and fries with a side of tartar sauce for dipping.Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that pairs well with whole belly clams. The acidity of the slaw helps cut through the richness of the clams, creating a well-balanced meal. Try serving your clams and coleslaw with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.Cocktail Sauce
Cocktail sauce is a classic condiment that's perfect for dipping your whole belly clams. The tangy and spicy flavor of the sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the clams, creating a delicious combination.The Secret to Achieving Crispy and Juicy Whole Belly Clams
The secret to achieving crispy and juicy whole belly clams is to use fresh and high-quality clams, fry them at the right temperature, and avoid overcrowding the pan. By following these tips, you'll be able to create a crispy and juicy texture that's sure to impress.Where to Find the Best Deals on Whole Belly Clams in CT
If you're looking for the best deals on whole belly clams in CT, check out your local seafood markets or grocery stores. Many of these places offer fresh clams at a lower price than restaurants. You can also look for specials and promotions at your favorite seafood restaurants.The Health Benefits of Consuming Whole Belly Clams
Whole belly clams are not only delicious but also nutritious. They're an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy heart, brain, and immune system. Whole belly clams are also low in calories and fat, making them a great option for those watching their weight.How to Recreate the Taste of CT's Best Whole Belly Clams at Home
If you want to recreate the taste of CT's best whole belly clams at home, start by sourcing fresh and high-quality clams. Soak them in cold water to remove any sand or grit, and then dip them in a light breading mixture. Fry them in hot oil until golden brown, and serve with your favorite sides and sauces.In conclusion, whole belly clams are a beloved seafood dish in CT, and with these tips, you'll be able to find the freshest and most delicious clams in the state. Whether you're dining at a restaurant or cooking at home, remember to use fresh ingredients, fry at the right temperature, and pair your clams with the perfect accompaniments.Best Whole Belly Clams in CT: A Personal Point of View
Introduction
Being a seafood lover, I have tried various dishes across Connecticut. However, my all-time favorite has to be the whole belly clams. The state has some of the best places to savor this delicacy. In this article, I will share my point of view about the best whole belly clams in CT and the pros and cons associated with them.The Best Whole Belly Clams in CT
After trying various places, I have narrowed down my top three picks for the best whole belly clams in CT:1. Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale
Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale is located in Westbrook and Madison. The restaurant has been serving seafood for over 40 years. Their whole belly clams are crispy and tender, served with tartar sauce and fries. The portion size is generous, and the prices are reasonable.2. Abbott's Lobster in the Rough
Abbott's Lobster in the Rough is located in Noank and has been around since 1947. They serve fresh seafood, including their signature whole belly clams. The clams are crispy, juicy, and come in a generous portion size. However, it can get crowded, and the wait time can be long.3. Captain Scott's Lobster Dock
Captain Scott's Lobster Dock is located in New London and has been serving seafood since 1991. Their whole belly clams are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with fries and coleslaw. The prices are reasonable, but the seating can be limited.Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons associated with the best whole belly clams in CT:Pros
- The clams are fresh and crispy
- The portion sizes are generous
- The prices are reasonable
- The restaurants have a great ambiance
Cons
- Some restaurants can get crowded, leading to long wait times
- Seating can be limited, depending on the restaurant
- Some restaurants are only open during specific seasons
Table Comparison
| Restaurant | Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale | Westbrook and Madison | Reasonable prices, generous portion sizes | Can get crowded |
| Abbott's Lobster in the Rough | Noank | Fresh seafood, signature whole belly clams | Long wait times |
| Captain Scott's Lobster Dock | New London | Reasonable prices, crispy clams | Seating can be limited |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Connecticut has some of the best places to savor whole belly clams. Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale, Abbott's Lobster in the Rough, and Captain Scott's Lobster Dock are my top three picks for the best whole belly clams in CT. Each restaurant has its unique pros and cons, but they all serve fresh and delicious seafood that is worth trying.The Best Whole Belly Clams in CT
Thank you for taking the time to read this article about the best whole belly clams in CT. We hope that you found it informative and helpful in your search for the perfect seafood experience. As you may have gathered from this article, Connecticut is home to some of the best seafood in the United States, and we are proud to have shared our knowledge about one of our favorite dishes with you.
If you are a seafood lover, you know that there is nothing quite like the taste of fresh, perfectly cooked clams. Whether you prefer them fried, baked, or steamed, there is something about the flavor and texture of these delicious shellfish that keeps us coming back for more. In this article, we have explored some of the best places in CT to find whole belly clams that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
One of the standout establishments we highlighted in this article is Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale. This family-owned business has been serving up fresh seafood for over 40 years, and their whole belly clams are a must-try. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in every dish they serve, and we highly recommend a visit to one of their three locations if you are in the area.
Another top pick for whole belly clams in CT is Captain Scott's Lobster Dock. Located in New London, this waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the Thames River and some of the best seafood around. Their whole belly clams are always fresh and perfectly seasoned, and they are just one of many delicious menu items to choose from.
Of course, these are just two of the many great options for whole belly clams in CT. Whether you are in the mood for a casual beachside shack or an upscale seafood restaurant, there is something for everyone in this state. We encourage you to explore some of the other establishments we mentioned in this article, as well as some that we didn't have the chance to cover.
As you venture out on your quest for the perfect whole belly clams, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, always choose a restaurant that sources their seafood from reputable suppliers and uses sustainable practices. This ensures that you are getting the freshest, highest quality clams possible while also supporting responsible fishing practices.
Additionally, pay attention to the preparation method when ordering your clams. While fried clams are the most popular option, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this delicacy. Baked clams, for example, are a healthier alternative that still packs a flavorful punch. Steamed clams are another great option, especially if you are looking for a more traditional New England experience.
Finally, don't forget to pair your clams with a refreshing beverage. Whether you prefer a cold beer, a crisp white wine, or a classic lemonade, there is something about the combination of seafood and a cold drink that just feels right.
In conclusion, we hope that this article has given you some inspiration for your next seafood adventure. Whether you are a lifelong resident of CT or just passing through, there is no shortage of amazing places to find the best whole belly clams. So grab a bib, find a spot with a view, and dig in!
People Also Ask About Best Whole Belly Clams in CT
What are whole belly clams?
Whole belly clams are a type of clam that includes the entire animal inside the shell, including the soft and flavorful belly.
Where can I find the best whole belly clams in CT?
Connecticut is known for its delicious seafood, and there are many restaurants throughout the state that serve some of the best whole belly clams. Some popular places to try include:
- Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale
- The Place
- Abbott's Lobster in the Rough
- Johnny Ad's Drive-In
What makes a good whole belly clam?
A good whole belly clam should have a crispy outer coating that is not too greasy, while the inside should be tender and flavorful. The clams themselves should be fresh and plump.
How should I eat whole belly clams?
Whole belly clams are often served fried with a side of tartar sauce and lemon wedges. They can be eaten on their own or in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato. Some people also enjoy dipping them in cocktail sauce or hot sauce.
Are whole belly clams healthy?
While whole belly clams are delicious, they are not the healthiest food option due to their high fat and calorie content. However, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.