In the bustling metropolis of New York, where the streets teem with an eclectic mix of cultures and flavors, clam cakes emerge as a delightful culinary gem. These crispy, savory morsels, often brimming with ocean-fresh clams, offer not just sustenance but also an experience — a sensory voyage reminiscent of seaside escapades. Each neighborhood showcases its own unique take on this beloved dish. Below, we delve into ten establishments renowned for their delectable clam cakes, each with its own character and charm, making this culinary exploration as varied as the city itself.
1. Clam Bar
Address: 1408 W 1st St, Montauk, NY 11954
Contact: (631) 668-2540
Website: clambar.com
Nestled in Montauk, Clam Bar is a rustic haven that evokes images of sun-drenched shores and salt-kissed breezes. Here, clam cakes are crafted with a blend of fresh clams and a whisper of spice—a recipe passed down through generations. Each bite carries the essence of summer, where the rhythm of the ocean meets the crunch of perfection. The ambiance is laid-back, perfect for unwinding after a day on the beach.
2. The Lobster Place
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 255-5672
Website: lobsterplace.com
Located in the bustling Chelsea Market, The Lobster Place exudes a vibrant energy. Their clam cakes are golden-brown treasures, embodying the spirit of a New England clambake. The cakes are crispy on the outside and tender within, offering a delightful contrast in textures. Each order comes accompanied by zesty sauces that tantalize the palate, inviting diners to dip, savor, and delve into the marine flavors of this timeless dish.
3. The Sea Grill
Address: 19 W 49th St, New York, NY 10020
Contact: (212) 332-7610
Website: thomaskeller.com/sea-grill
The Sea Grill, perched in the Rockefeller Center, offers an upscale take on clam cakes, seamlessly fusing elegance with casual dining. Served with a refined aioli, their clam cakes delight in every nuanced flavor. The sophisticated setting paired with exceptional service makes for a dining experience that elevates these humble cakes into a gourmet revelation. The rhythmic clinking of cutlery against fine china enhances the ambiance of a chic coastal retreat.
4. Lobster Shack
Address: 426 E 8th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (646) 504-1766
Website: lobstershackny.com
In the heart of the East Village, Lobster Shack encapsulates the irrepressible spirit of a classic fish shanty. Their clam cakes are a soul-soothing indulgence, crafted with whole clams and herbs. The Shack’s rustic decor and vibrant atmosphere invite you to kick back, relax, and enjoy an authentic seaside meal, reminiscent of a spontaneous road trip along the Atlantic coastline.
5. Westside Market NYC
Address: 40 W 110th St, New York, NY 10026
Contact: (212) 531-9700
Website: westsidemarketnyc.com
Westside Market offers clam cakes that are a quintessential embodiment of comfort food. Perfectly fried and generously filled with sweet clam meat, they resonate with the warmth of home-cooked meals. This family-operated market resonates with the charm of bygone days, where each ingredient is thoughtfully sourced, ensuring that the clam cakes taste like something from Grandma’s kitchen, but with a contemporary twist.
6. The Clam
Address: 420 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 989-3276
Website: theclamnyc.com
As its name suggests, The Clam celebrates all things marine. Here, clam cakes are elevated to an art form, seasoned intricately and combined with fresh ingredients that sing of coastal vitality. The intimate setting invites patrons to relish not just the food, but the experience of camaraderie that good dining engenders. Each clam cake becomes a conversation starter, a bridge that connects diners through flavors and cherished memories.
7. Tuck Shop
Address: 153 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 691-9400
Website: tuckshopny.com
The Tuck Shop invites you into a whimsical world of flavor, where casual Australian fare meets New York City’s sophisticated palate. Their clam cakes are distinctly unique, served with a spicy aioli that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, echoing the essence of beach bonfires and savory laughter. The Tuck Shop encapsulates the infectious joy of discovery in every dish.
8. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Address: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 956-5151
Website: ellensstardustdiner.com
Step into the enchanting ambiance of Ellen’s Stardust Diner and be transported. Renowned for its singing servers, this establishment serves clam cakes that are every bit as unforgettable as its entertainment. The clam cakes here are infused with happiness, crispy and flavorful, embodying the joyful spirit of New York City nightlife. A single bite transports you on a nostalgic journey down memory lane, blending the notes of culinary delight with the rhythm of Broadway.
9. Luke’s Lobster
Address: 123 S End Ave, New York, NY 10280
Contact: (212) 823-2500
Website: lukeslobster.com
Luke’s Lobster brings the essence of Maine to Manhattan, crafting clam cakes that are as authentic as the Atlantic. Freshly made, these delicacies are hearty yet light, coupled with a side of summery coleslaw that pays homage to coastal traditions. The charming nautical theme and laid-back vibe make this an ideal spot for all seafood aficionados eager to indulge in classic clam cakes.
10. The Oyster Bar
Address: 86th St, New York, NY 10010
Contact: (212) 798-9595
Website: oysterbarny.com
Last but certainly not least, The Oyster Bar demystifies the world of seafood with its cherished clam cakes. A bastion of culinary expertise, this establishment offers clam cakes that are deceptively simple yet bursting with flavor. The charming decor pays homage to classic seafood bars, creating an inviting space where patrons can lose themselves in the ocean’s bounty while feasting on these wondrous cakes.
As we traverse through the neighborhoods of New York City, it becomes unmistakably clear that clam cakes are more than just food; they are a love letter to coastal life, capturing the essence of the sea in each heavenly bite. Each establishment has its own unique story, flavor profile, and atmosphere—inviting you to create your own culinary narrative. So, whether you’re a native New Yorker or a wandering traveler, it’s time to embark on a delightful taste expedition and uncover the magic hidden within these ten clam cakes. Gather your friends, your appetite, and dive into the quintessential seaside experience right in the heart of the city.
