J.T. Farnham's

So glad we drove 64 r/t miles in mid-December to try J. T. Farnhams (now known as ‘Farnhams’) located in charming Essex, MA. We entered into a warm, homey and casual atmosphere with wooden settle bench seatings and tables with chairs. After you place your order and pay at the register, grab some napkins and plastic cutlery and have a seat. Your order will be promptly delivered to your table. The ‘Fishermen’s Combo’ had a generous fried haddock filet over a bed of clams, shrimp, scallops, onion rings and optional Cole slaw. The piping hot haddock was tender, the clams, small bellies were so sweet, the scallops, slightly overcooked but tender inside and juicy. The Cole slaw was finely grated and refreshing, my companion thought more dressing was needed. Ketchup and a wonderful home-made tart

Over the years I've been back here more often than Woodmans and for good reason. The price brings a quality and a freshness you are looking for with fried seafood and a really authentic environment, look no further. It's worth the wait.

The absolute best fried clams I’ve ever had. Why? First of all, they use just the lightest coating possible so that you add flavor and texture without drowning out the taste of the clams. Secondly, they use a healthy, easy to digest canola oil and they don’t overuse the oil. For $30 you get a big pile of these delicious clams and a side. I get the coleslaw which is excellent, but of course you can get fries or other things.

If you’re looking for fried clams then this is the place. There is another place for fried clams Woodmans but selected this one because of its location on salty marshes with beautiful views. Seating is available on the side of the marshes and inside the restaurant. It’s a cash only and self service eatery, a casual place to eat. It has more seafood options to choose from but in Essex fried clams are iconic food. Highly recommended.

I went with my cousin the other day. We had a great meal. (They are cash only just so you know) I got the half-and-half plate of fried clams and scallops. They were tasty. The clams were on the smaller side, but that’s OK. They were still delectable and the scallops were done perfect. Parking is a little crazy over since there are only seven or eight spots out front so you have to park on the street across the way. But overall well with the trip.