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Clam chowder in New Jersey

A bowl of clam chowder that is thick with actual ingredients, not just a bowl of cream and filler.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
The Anchor Fish & Chips image 1
The Anchor Fish & Chips image 2
The Anchor Fish & Chips image 3
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Fish & chips restaurant

Small, family-owned spot serves fabulous New England clam chowder and excellent Manhattan clam chowder in a cozy, clean setting. Friendly vibe draws those who want large portions and a mix of fried and non-fried seafood at fair prices.

Both New England clam chowder and Manhattan clam chowder are available, with the Manhattan version noted as excellent. The New England clam chowder is described as fabulous.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"I thought the lobster roll was so good."

"I thought the clam chowder was fabulous."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers size options for fish and chips, such as 1 for $10 and 2 for $16.

2

Their Tuesday special is 3 tacos for $10.

3

Parking can be a bit of a hassle.

02
Zeng Sushi and Hibachi image 1

Small restaurant shines with bright fluorescent lighting and a lively vibe. Both New England clam chowder and Manhattan clam chowder offer rich, flavorful options. Bring your own drink and enjoy a seafood-focused menu in an enthusiastic setting.

New England clam chowder stands out with lots of clams and potatoes and a rich, creamy texture. Manhattan clam chowder offers a delicious tomato-based alternative, both versions deliver solid flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the lobster rolls; they had a generous amount of lobster."

"The clam chowder here is delicious and next level."

"The lobster bisque was so flavorful with chunks of fresh lobster."

Good to know

1

They have a BYOB policy, so bring your own drinks.

2

Expect long wait times during busy hours; many customers were turned away.

3

The restaurant was out of many items on the menu during my visit.

03
Fish & Fancy Seafood Take Out image 1

Small seafood spot shines with fresh herbs in clam chowder and a laid-back vibe outdoors. Affordable prices draw crowds for high-quality seafood. Focus on take-out keeps atmosphere old-school and casual.

New England clam chowder comes loaded with clams and fresh herbs. The Manhattan clam chowder offers a flavorful twist, though the chowder can have a bit of extra black pepper.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fantastic and tastes incredibly fresh."

"I thought the food here was amazing and prepared perfectly."

"This clam chowder is loaded with clams and herbs."

Good to know

1

This is a take out restaurant, not an eat-in place.

2

The fried, broiled, and appetizer specials vary weekly.

3

There is always a long wait on weekends.

04
Jacks Surf & Turf- Seafood & Steak image 1

Bright, casual space with nautical decor and two floors offers a chill vibe with live music and oldies. Clam chowder is creamy and rich, packed with potatoes and clams for a hearty taste. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Creamy and rich with a New England style, the clam chowder features a thick texture loaded mostly with potatoes and a few chopped clams. It has a tasty, hearty flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"The lobster rolls are warm, buttery, and loaded with fresh lobster."

"The calamari here is seasoned perfectly and has a great crunch."

"The clam chowder here is creamy, rich, and loaded with clams."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the lot at the back and on the street.

3

Expect high prices, with some dishes costing over $20.

05
The Gateway Bar, Restaurant and Liquor Store image 1

Large bar and grill buzzes with live music and multiple TVs for sports fans. Award-winning New England clam chowder served in a bread bowl offers rich, creamy flavor. Quiet private dining space provides a calm spot away from the lively main area.

New England clam chowder stands out for its rich flavor and creamy texture. Serving it in a bread bowl adds a unique touch that enhances the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the food was absolutely the best."

"I thought their clam chowder was the best I had anywhere."

"You can watch live sports on tons of TVs all around."

Good to know

1

Food is served late, making it a good option for late-night dining.

2

Prices are reasonable compared to other places on the island.

3

The establishment is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

06
Keyport Fishery image 1
Seafood market

Seafood market buzzes with fresh fish and old school setup. Clam chowder shines with rich flavor and generous portions. Outdoor benches offer peaceful bay views for enjoying simple, fried fish meals.

New England clam chowder stands out for its rich and delicious flavor. It comes in generous portions, often available for takeout in quarts, making it a frequent choice for clam chowder lovers.

People are saying

"I found the fish here to be the best and freshest I've ever had."

"It's a great spot for fresh takeout seafood to cook at home."

"I thought the New England Clam Chowder was the best I had."

Good to know

1

Keyport Fishery only accepts cash payments; an ATM is available inside.

2

Keyport Fishery does not offer dine-in options; takeout is available.

3

Expect limited parking and long lines during peak hours.

07
Park Seafood Clam Bar image 1
Seafood restaurant

Outdoor dining with ocean views creates a lively setting. Fresh, affordable seafood shines, especially New England clam chowder with its creamy texture. Crab cakes and steamed clams add to the exceptional taste experience.

New England clam chowder stands out with a rich, creamy texture and fresh clams. The chowder pairs well with other seafood like stuffed and steamed clams, offering a consistently exceptional taste.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, I could eat it all day."

"I've never had better crab cakes; they're the best I've had."

"I found the clam chowder to be exceptional."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers outdoor dining only.

2

Expect competitive prices for clams compared to other boardwalk spots.

3

The menu features a good variety of seafood despite its small size.

08
South 9 Bar and Grille image 1

Large space with vintage decor and a cozy fireplace sets a warm mood. Clam chowder shines with a creamy texture and hearty clam chunks. Live music adds to the relaxed vibe, making it a great spot for comfort and flavor.

Creamier texture and more clam chunks stand out in the clam chowder. It offers a rich, hearty flavor that pairs well with other dishes like Buffalo cauliflower bites.

People are saying

"The Moscow mule at this bar was very good."

"The chicken salad sandwich is a must-try lunch spot."

"I thought the clam chowder here was great."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and available for guests.

2

Reservations are recommended for events to ensure space.

3

Wing Night occurs on Thursdays; plan to arrive early.

09
Rick's Seafood House image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood takeout shines with rich clam and crab chowder blending New England flavors. Outdoor picnic tables offer a relaxed beach town vibe by the water. Expect a busy atmosphere and long waits during peak hours.

Clam chowder here stands out for its rich blend combining clam and crab chowders equally. It pairs well with seafood dishes and offers a tasty New England style that many find satisfying.

People are saying

"The seafood here is really fresh and flavorful."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and high quality."

"I enjoyed the best clam chowder here."

Good to know

1

Expect a two and a half hour wait for takeout during peak times.

2

Call ahead on weekends and holidays to avoid long wait times.

3

Order crabs at least 2-3 days in advance for pickup.

10
Angelo Seafood Market image 1
Seafood market

Bright, clean space offers a casual vibe with a fresh seafood aroma. Clam chowder stands out with prosciutto bits and yellowfin tuna, paired perfectly with raw oysters from the cool raw bar. Upstairs market sells high-quality fresh fish for seafood lovers.

Clam chowder comes with prosciutto bits, scallops, and yellowfin tuna. It pairs well with other seafood like raw oysters and shrimp cocktails.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood selection at this grocery store is really impressive."

"I got generous portions of fresh, affordable salmon."

Good to know

1

The market offers a great selection of fresh seafood with daily deliveries.

2

Prices are reasonable compared to other seafood markets in the area.

3

The raw bar is BYOB, allowing customers to bring their own alcohol.

11
Kubel's image 1
Bar & grill

Spacious heated outdoor seating offers bay views and a lighthouse backdrop. Enjoy hearty New England clam chowder with fresh clams alongside garlic clams and fried strips. The vibe mixes old saloon charm with a lively yet relaxed maritime feel.

Hearty New England clam chowder features fresh, tasty clams. It pairs well with garlic clams and fried clam strips for a solid seafood start.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating area is spacious with a beautiful view."

"I loved the goulash with egg noodles and beef in a mild cream sauce."

"I thought the New England clam chowder was good."

Good to know

1

Kubel's accepts credit cards, which is uncommon in the area.

2

Kubel's does not take reservations; you must be present to join the waitlist.

3

Expect long wait times during peak season; arrive early for a table.

12
Spike's Fish Market & Restaurant image 1

Small seafood market with a cozy, retro vibe offers fresh catch from a refrigerated case. Manhattan clam chowder shines with its rich, creamy broth packed with clams. The place feels friendly and family-like, perfect for a laidback shore meal.

Manhattan clam chowder stands out with its rich, creamy broth and is packed with clams. Both red and white versions offer a smooth, flavorful experience that many find worth bringing home.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and so fresh."

"I found the seafood here to be the best I've ever had."

"The clam chowder here is packed with clams."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure seating, especially during busy times.

2

The restaurant is a bring-your-own-bottle establishment; no alcohol is served.

3

Expect the place to be packed at times, especially during peak hours.

13
Saltwater Bar and Kitchen by Big Mike image 1

Multi-level dining offers an elegant, coastal cozy atmosphere with soft lighting. Clam chowder is rich and creamy with bacon and potato, showing a New England style with a spicy hint. Bar seating is comfortable, perfect for enjoying strong cocktails and flavorful food.

Rich and creamy with chunks of bacon and potato, the clam chowder has a hearty texture and a small hint of spice. It follows a New England style but has fewer clams than usual.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, especially the thin-crust pizza."

"The seafood here is fresh and cooked to perfection."

"The clam chowder is rich, spicy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy summer months.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer great deals on food and drinks.

3

Happy hour features discounted full-size dishes.

14
Shore Fresh Seafood Market & Restaurant image 1

Seafood market and restaurant offers fresh seafood in a casual, family-friendly setting. Clam chowder shines with creamy New England and tangy Manhattan styles, both affordable and available for takeout. Atmosphere stays down to earth, focusing on simple, tasty dishes.

New England clam chowder comes with a creamy texture and is reasonably priced. Manhattan clam chowder offers a tomato-based flavor and both are available for takeout.

People are saying

"I found the fresh seafood here to be super fresh."

"The market staff were the nicest people I encountered."

"I thought the clam chowder was delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during summer weekends; reservations are not required.

2

Credit card payments incur a 3% processing fee; cash is preferred.

3

Parking is ample and free, making access easy for visitors.

15
Gregory's image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small dining space with 1950s vintage decor offers a quiet, resort-like atmosphere. Fresh seafood shines in the seafood boil and Manhattan clam chowder with rich tomato base. Comfortable seating invites guests to savor classic flavors.

Manhattan clam chowder stands out with its rich tomato base and fresh clams. Both clam chowders offer solid flavors, with the lobster bisque nearby showing a noticeable sherry flavor.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be super fresh."

"The lobster bisque was creamy, full of chunks, and had a noticeable sherry flavor."

"I had the best Manhattan clam chowder in years."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right in front or on the side of the restaurant.

2

Reservations are not required; you can seat yourself upon arrival.

3

They offer a seafood boil at a reasonable price.

16
La La Lobster Cape May image 1
Seafood restaurant

Walk-up spot offers beach casual vibe with sunlit tables and a cool breeze. Clam chowder features chunks of clam but can be mild in flavor. Soft 80s rock music adds a fun, relaxed energy to the outdoor seating.

Chunks of clam fill the tasty, chunky chowder. It pairs well with lobster dishes but sometimes lacks a strong flavor punch. Saltine crackers are not served alongside.

People are saying

"I had the best lobster roll I ever had."

"You can enjoy a lobster roll sitting outside along the shore."

"I enjoyed their delicious clam chowder and lobster roll."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a walk-up spot with minimal outdoor seating.

2

Lobster rolls cost $22, including chips and a pickle.

3

An extra 2 ounces of lobster meat can be added for $7.

17
Country Kettle Chowda image 1

Small shack serves rich clam chowder in fresh sourdough bread bowls. Atmosphere is cozy and authentic, loved by locals and beachgoers. Focus stays on simple, consistent flavors without fancy twists.

Clam chowder comes rich and creamy, packed with flavor and clams. It arrives in freshly baked sourdough bread bowls, adding to the savory experience.

People are saying

"The soups and chili here are delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the best clam chowder on the island here."

"I had the best lobster bisque here."

Good to know

1

Country Kettle Chowda is a take-out only restaurant with a small menu.

2

The restaurant specializes in traditional seafood chowder, particularly clam chowder.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the location and quality of ingredients.

18
Dougherty's Steakhouse & Raw Bar image 1

Steakhouse blends classy atmosphere with a bright atrium bar and indoor patio for people watching. New England Clam Chowder offers rich flavor and generous clams despite sometimes arriving lukewarm. Calm, relaxing mood balances elegance and comfort perfectly.

New England Clam Chowder stands out with its rich flavor and generous clam pieces. It sometimes arrives lukewarm after a wait but remains delicious.

People are saying

"The happy hour oysters and coconut shrimp are delicious."

"The steak here is served with polished and attentive service."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best around."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm with popular food and drink specials.

2

Clams are priced at $1 each, oysters at $1.5 each during happy hour.

3

Sliders cost $8, calamari $9, and coconut shrimp $10 during happy hour.

19
Cap't Loui - Cajun Seafood Boil image 1

Nautical-themed decor sets a cozy vibe perfect for casual dining. Clam chowder is hot and creamy with plenty of clams, paired well with garlic bread. Friendly atmosphere stays fun without being loud, enhanced by an app for bottle delivery at the table.

Clam chowder comes hot and creamy with a full flavor and plenty of clams in every bite. It pairs well with garlic bread and Cajun fries.

People are saying

"I found the seafood boil to be delicious and fresh."

"You have to try the beignets for dessert; they're so good!"

"The clam chowder is so flavorful and creamy."

Good to know

1

$1 oyster special is available every Tuesday.

2

Lunch specials run from 11am to 3pm and are affordable.

3

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

20
Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls image 1

Seafood shines with fresh lobster rolls and a creamy clam chowder that some find slightly sour. Casual vibe with spacious outdoor seating offers a relaxed beach view near the village. Perfect for enjoying rich flavors in a comfortable setting.

Creamy texture and rich flavor define the clam chowder here. Some find it deliciously smooth, while others notice a slightly sour taste.

People are saying

"The lobster rolls are fresh, buttery, and packed with flavor."

"The food here is delicious and fresh, especially the lobster."

"The clam chowder here is creamy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Each lobster roll costs $23 before tax, and lemonades are $8 each.

2

The portions are generous for the price.

3

The restaurant offers great value for lobster rolls.

21
Ocean Fresh Seafood Market and Dining image 1

Seafood market with a bright atmosphere and sunset views over Seaside Bridge. Manhattan Clam Chowder features a rich broth that pairs well with your own drinks thanks to BYOB. Energy rises during busy times, creating a lively vibe.

Manhattan Clam Chowder stands out with a rich, flavorful broth. The restaurant's BYOB policy lets you pair it with your own drinks, adding to the experience.

People are saying

"I found the seafood to be fresh and the portions generous."

"The fish and chips here are perfectly cooked with a crispy batter."

"I found the clam chowder to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

2

A 3% credit card fee is added to the bill if you pay with a card.

3

Expect higher prices for seafood compared to local grocery stores.

22
Woolley's Fish Market and Seafood House image 1

Seafood market shines with fresh fish and large portions at fair prices. Clam chowder is New England style with good clam meat but can be watery. Casual vibe with music playing and a fishy smell inside.

Made in-house, the clam chowder features a decent amount of clam meat but can taste watery and plain at times. It sits alongside crab soups and offers a straightforward New England style.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be so fresh and high quality."

"I enjoyed the fish and crab cake sandwiches."

"The New England Clam Chowder had a decent amount of clam meat."

Good to know

1

Pride shows occur regularly at Woolley's Fish Market.

2

The seafood tower costs $7, offering a good value.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere, especially during holidays like Christmas Eve.

23
Shucker's Bar & Grille image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with fresh clams in a rich tomato base chowder. Outdoor deck offers a pet-friendly and relaxed vibe. Indoor space is loud and lively, perfect for a beach town feel.

Manhattan clam chowder stands out with its rich tomato base and fresh clams. The chowder tends to be on the watery side but still delivers solid flavor.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make great drinks."

"The outdoor seating is so pet-friendly, they even served our pup water."

"I found the clam chowder to be good."

Good to know

1

The outdoor seating is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for dog owners.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

3

Expect prices to be on the higher side, reflecting the quality of seafood.

24
Harpoon Willy's image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill offers waterfront views and a classic shore home feel with live music and cozy fireplaces. New England Clam Chowder is rich and creamy, perfect for casual dining. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed, lively atmosphere.

New England Clam Chowder stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. It consistently delivers a really good soup experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be excellent and outstanding."

"It's a nice view of the river and water."

"The New England Clam Chowder here is heavenly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

Expect a higher bill, around $30 per person for lunch and a drink.

3

Bar seating is first come, first served, with no reservation system.

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