Editors’ Choice
Seaport Grille, Gloucester
The portions are generous, the tartar sauce is made in-house, and pretty much every table has a front-row seat for watching the boats along the oldest working waterfront in America. Friendly service makes the experience even better when enjoying these delectably crisp bivalves. Of course, the deck is a delight in good weather, but we also enjoy sitting in the covered section on a rainy day and soaking up the moody seaport vibes. 6 Rowe Sq., Gloucester, 978-282-9799, seaportgrillegloucester.com
Readers’ Choice
Woodman’s of Essex, Essex
We’re not taking sides about who invented the fried clam—but we can say that Woodman’s has been doing it right for more than 100 years, always delicious, and always gluten-free. And for those not fortunate enough to be able to stop by in person, a fried clam kit lets you cook up your own bivalves at home. 119 Main St., Essex, 978-768-6057, woodmans.com