The Absolute Best Clam Chowder in NYC [Updated 2024]

In this article, I will share with you my top picks for the most delicious and authentic clam chowder in the Big Apple. Having tried and reviewed twelve different establishments, I have narrowed down the list to only the absolute best.

From classic New England-style chowder to unique and innovative variations, there is something for every clam chowder lover in this vibrant city. So whether you're a native New Yorker or just visiting, get ready to indulge in a steaming bowl of creamy, flavorful goodness.

Let's dive in and discover the true gems of clam chowder in NYC!

The Clam

Highlights
Amazing rolls
Best burger
Fresh oysters
Gracious staff
Excellent cuisine

Let me start by saying that The Clam is definitely more than just its name implies. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a gracious staff that made me feel welcome and excited to try their offerings.

While my main mission was to find the best clam chowder, I simply couldn't resist trying some of The Clam's other dishes. Their amazing rolls were buttery and fresh, a perfect accompaniment to any seafood dish. And speaking of seafood, their selection of fresh oysters did not disappoint. Each briny bite was a delightful taste of the sea.

Now, onto the main event: the clam chowder. The Clam did not disappoint in this category either. Their clam chowder was creamy, flavorful, and packed with chunks of tender clams. The balance of flavors was phenomenal, with a hint of smokiness that elevated the dish to a new level. It was evident that they paid great attention to the quality of their ingredients, as every spoonful was a delight.

One thing I must mention is The Clam's best burger. While it's not directly related to clam chowder, I felt compelled to try it, and boy, am I glad I did. The burger was juicy, cooked to perfection, and bursting with flavor. It was definitely the cherry on top of an already incredible meal.

In conclusion, The Clam is a hidden gem in NYC, offering not only an exceptional clam chowder but also a diverse menu filled with excellent cuisine. The combination of attentive staff, fresh ingredients, and a playful yet professional atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers and those in search of the best clam chowder in the city.

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Red Hook Lobster Pound

Highlights
Fresh lobsters
Tasty seafood
Good service
Delicious rolls
Nice drink list

As soon as I stepped into Red Hook Lobster Pound, I was hit with the mesmerizing aroma of the ocean. The restaurant boasted a playful and inviting atmosphere, the perfect setting for indulging in some hearty seafood goodness.

Now, let's get to the star of the show: the clam chowder. One spoonful of their chowder instantly transported me to the seaside with its rich, velvety texture and robust flavor. The clams were tender, plump, and truly the heroes of the dish. It was apparent that Red Hook Lobster Pound prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients – and it showed!

Aside from the clam chowder, Red Hook Lobster Pound also excelled in other areas. Their fresh lobsters were cooked to perfection, while their seafood offerings were both tasty and diverse. The service was attentive and friendly, ensuring that each customer felt like a cherished guest.

To accompany the delightful seafood fare, Red Hook Lobster Pound boasts a nice drink list. In particular, their house-made lemonade added a refreshing touch to the meal.

One can't talk about Red Hook Lobster Pound without mentioning their delicious rolls. These savory treats were buttery, toasted to perfection, and filled to the brim with succulent lobster. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors.

In conclusion, Red Hook Lobster Pound is a not-to-be-missed experience for any clam chowder enthusiast. Their dedication to using fresh ingredients, alongside their tasty seafood options and good service, make it a standout destination in the quest for the best clam chowder in NYC.

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Luke's Lobster Upper West Side

Highlights
White truffle chowder
Spicy honey
Plenty of clams
Fresh lobster
Great recommendation

Upon entering Luke's Lobster Upper West Side, I immediately knew I was in for a treat. The menu boasted a variety of seafood delights, but my focus was solely on their clam chowder. With anticipation, I ordered their famous White Truffle Chowder and eagerly awaited its arrival.

As I took my first spoonful, the flavors danced on my palate like a well-choreographed ballet. The creamy broth was infused with the delicate essence of white truffle, elevating it to a whole new level of sophistication. The slight tanginess from the clams perfectly balanced the richness, leaving me craving each subsequent bite.

To my surprise, Luke's Lobster had a unique twist on the classic chowder. They offered a drizzle of spicy honey, which added a touch of sweet heat that complemented the briny flavors remarkably well. It was an unexpected burst of excitement in every spoonful.

What truly set this clam chowder apart was the abundance of clams. Each mouthful revealed tender, plump pieces of clam that had been expertly cooked. This attention to detail highlighted the freshness and quality of their ingredients.

To my delight, Luke's Lobster even incorporated fresh pieces of lobster into their chowder. These succulent morsels added an indulgent touch to an already delightful dish. It was the perfect marriage of seafood flavors, leaving me thoroughly impressed.

I must give a special mention to the staff at Luke's Lobster Upper West Side. Their warm welcome and knowledgeable recommendations made my dining experience even more pleasurable. Their suggestion to try the White Truffle Chowder was a stroke of brilliance.

In conclusion, Luke's Lobster Upper West Side has undoubtedly earned its spot among the contenders for the title of best clam chowder in NYC. Its white truffle-infused soup, spicy honey twist, generous serving of clams, and addition of fresh lobster combine to create an unforgettable culinary masterpiece. If you find yourself in the city and are in desperate need of a clam chowder fix, don't hesitate to make your way to Luke's Lobster Upper West Side. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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Luke's Lobster Midtown East

Luke's Lobster Midtown East in NYC is a clam chowder heaven. The creamy and rich broth is bursting with tender clams and perfectly cooked potatoes. The soup is seasoned to perfection, making each spoonful a delightful explosion of flavors. Don't walk, run to Luke's for the best clam chowder in NYC.

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Ed's Lobster Bar

Ed's Lobster Bar in NYC is a clam chowder lover's dream come true. Their velvety chowder boasts plump clams and a creamy broth that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Served in a warm bread bowl, it's a decadent treat that will leave you craving more. Don't miss out on this clam chowder sensation at Ed's Lobster Bar in NYC.

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Luke's Lobster Upper East Side

I fancied myself quite the connoisseur of clam chowder, so off I went on my quest to find the crème de la clam in the Big Apple. My latest stop was at Luke's Lobster in the Upper East Side. Let me regale you with the delightful tale of my visit.

As I stepped into the charming seafood shack, the enticing aroma of simmering chowders enveloped me. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff instantly put me at ease, ready to embark on my clammy adventure.

With high expectations and an even higher appetite, I ordered their acclaimed clam chowder. And oh, what a sight it was! The creamy, ivory-colored broth adorned with tender clams, potatoes, and aromatic herbs beckoned me with its seductive allure.

My first spoonful transported me to the shores of New England. The chowder's velvety texture caressed my palate while bursts of briny goodness teased my taste buds. The clams were supreme, plump with an oceanic essence that would make Poseidon himself jealous.

Luke's Lobster's dedication to quality shone through in each spoonful. Every ingredient was thoughtfully chosen and expertly cooked. The balance of flavors was pure symphony: the mild sweetness of the clams danced harmoniously with the earthiness of the potatoes, creating a crescendo of taste.

As I reveled in this clammy delight, I couldn't help but admire Luke's commitment to sustainability. They source their seafood responsibly, ensuring a guilt-free indulgence for seafood lovers like me.

My journey in search of the best clam chowder in NYC brought me to Luke's Lobster, and I can confidently say that they've earned a spot on my list of favorites. If you find yourself clamoring for a bowl of liquid perfection, absolutely make your way to Luke's Lobster Upper East Side. Trust me, they know how to whip up a chowder that will make your taste buds shimmy with joy.

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Cull & Pistol

So, I went on a little journey to find the best clam chowder in NYC, and one stop on my adventure was Cull & Pistol. Let me tell you, this place knows how to make a chowder that will have you shouting "oh, baby!" The clams were so fresh, you'd think they were just plucked from the ocean. And the broth? Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. This chowder is the real deal, folks. It's like a warm blanket on a cold winter's day, comforting and satisfying. So if you're looking for a bowl of clam chowder that will knock your socks off, head on over to Cull & Pistol. You won't be disappointed. Trust me, I'm a clam chowder aficionado.

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Luke's Lobster FiDi

I must say, wow. Luke's Lobster FiDi truly knows how to create a bowl of clam chowder magic. The velvety base is rich and flavorful, with every spoonful transporting me to the seaside. The generous portion of tender clams adds a delightful brininess, while the seasoning and herbs are perfectly balanced. The chowder is served piping hot, which makes it even more satisfying on chilly NYC days. Trust me, this spot is a seafood lover's dream come true.

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Lobster Place

In my quest to find the best clam chowder in NYC, I made a delightful discovery at Lobster Place. This seafood mecca served up a steaming bowl of creamy goodness that had me swooning. The clams were succulent, the broth was robust, and the flavors were perfectly balanced. It was a clam-tastic experience that left me craving more.

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Mary's Fish Camp

I was instantly hooked on the creamy goodness of Mary's clam chowder. The generous chunks of tender clams were swimming in a velvety broth that had just the right amount of richness. This bowl of oceany delight left me wanting more. Mary's reel-y nailed it!

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Luke's Lobster Union Square

Luke's Lobster Union Square quickly won my heart with their incredible clam chowder. Bursting with fresh clams and succulent potatoes, every spoonful was a delight. The creamy broth was rich and flavorful, leaving me wanting more. It's no wonder why they're a top contender for the best clam chowder in NYC!

Docks Oyster Bar NYC

I visited Docks Oyster Bar NYC in NYC in search of the best clam chowder for my article. And let me tell you, this seafood haven did not disappoint! Their clam chowder was bursting with flavor and filled with tender clams. Each spoonful transported me to the ocean waves. This bowl of goodness is definitely worth a visit!