When one thinks of New York, images of skyscrapers, traffic, and bustling crowds often come to mind. Yet beneath this metropolitan façade lies a hidden world of culinary treasures. Among them, clam strips prevail as a quintessential gastronomic delight, hailing from coastal kitchens and making their way to the heart of the city. Here, we delve into ten remarkable establishments scattered across various neighborhoods in New York, each offering a distinct take on this beloved dish.
1. The Lobster Place
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 255-5672
Website: www.thelobsterplace.com
Located in the vibrant Chelsea Market, The Lobster Place serves up clam strips with an air of refined casualness. Picture the camaraderie of chefs and patrons, all drawn together by the aromatic allure of fresh seafood. Here, clam strips are lightly battered and fried to perfection, evoking the salty embrace of ocean waves.
2. Johnny’s Reef Restaurant
Address: 2 City Island Ave, Bronx, NY 10464
Contact: (718) 885-1880
Website: www.johnnysreef.com
Seemingly adrift on City Island’s shimmering waters, Johnny’s Reef embodies nautical nostalgia. Their clam strips are generously portioned and celebrated for a crispy texture that recalls the crunch of driftwood underfoot. The waterfront spectacle enhances the dining experience, marrying nature’s bounty with heartfelt hospitality.
3. City Island Clam Bar
Address: 250 City Island Ave, Bronx, NY 10464
Contact: (718) 885-0900
Website: www.cityislandclambar.com
At City Island Clam Bar, the clam strips are similar to ocean treasures waiting to be discovered. This cozy eatery radiates charm, and the clam strips are peppered with Old Bay seasoning, giving them a delightful kick that awakens the palate. The atmosphere is jubilant yet relaxed—a testament to the simple pleasures found in life.
4. The Clam
Address: 420 West 14th St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 989-9222
Website: www.theclamnyc.com
Perched in the Meatpacking District, The Clam offers a unique blend of sophistication and ease. Their clam strips bear the hallmark of artisanal quality, expertly fried and presented with a tantalizing tartar sauce. Dining here is akin to attending a seasoned gallery opening where seafood is the artwork on display.
5. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
Address: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 956-5151
Website: www.ellensstardustdiner.com
In the heart of the Theater District, Ellen’s Stardust Diner not only serves clam strips but provides an unforgettable spectacle. The servers double as aspiring Broadway stars, blending culinary craft with theatrical flair. Clam strips here are not merely a dish; they are a sensory performance that captivates both the appetite and the spirit.
6. Luke’s Lobster
Address: 426 East 9th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (646) 494-1994
Website: www.lukeslobster.com
Luke’s Lobster is a sanctuary for seafood aficionados, where clam strips are served with an unmatched dedication to sustainability. Imagine your taste buds transported to the coast, with every bite an echo of saltwater and sunshine. The commitment to freshness here ensures an indulgent yet responsible dining experience.
7. Grand Central Oyster Bar
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 490-6650
Website: www.oysterbarny.com
Nestled within the iconic Grand Central Terminal, the Oyster Bar is an institution, much like the station itself. The clam strips possess a traditional twist, paired with house-made sauces that awaken the senses. Dining here is akin to savouring a piece of New York’s soul, complete with the buzz of bustling travelers.
8. Westside Restaurant & Bar
Address: 360 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 228-2590
Website: www.westsidebar.com
Westside Restaurant & Bar offers a tranquil reprieve from the frenetic city, serving clam strips that are crisp, delicate, and whimsical in their presentation. The relaxed ambiance is punctuated by gourmet touches, transforming a seemingly simple dish into a culinary conversation starter.
9. The Boil
Address: 2150 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10029
Contact: (212) 876-1111
Website: www.theboilny.com
The Boil takes diners on a culinary voyage through New Orleans-inspired seafood. The clam strips are seasoned and fried, then ensconced in a buttery sauce that speaks to the indulgent spirit of Southern cooking. Each bite offers a fusion of flavors that harmonizes the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
10. Pearl Oyster Bar
Address: 18 Cornelia St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 691-8211
Website: www.pearloysterbar.com
Pearl Oyster Bar is celebrated for its coastal charm, and their clam strips embody the essence of seaside dining. The dish is elegant, yet unwaveringly familiar, like a beloved childhood memory. Enjoying clam strips here fosters a nostalgic revelry, where every bite whispers of sun-drenched summers by the beach.
As we traverse through these neighborhoods, it becomes evident that clam strips in New York are not merely food items; they are experiences carved from the fabric of each locality. Whether indulging in the casual charm of City Island or the theatrical allure of Ellen’s Stardust Diner, each restaurant provides a unique perspective on a beloved seafood staple. New York’s clam strips resonate with the city’s spirit, uniting gastronomes in the pursuit of flavor and camaraderie.
