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JT Farnham's
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Dive-y, Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
88 reviews for JT Farnham's
Review Highlights
"The Fried Clams were soooo good."
(in 33 reviews)
"The site is beautiful as well, on a salt marsh."
(in 13 reviews)
"And the lobster roll was delicious - lots of meat, very..."
(in 24 reviews)
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88 reviews in English
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Review from debora l.
10/18/2011
A little off the beaten path during our Boston city travels, but we were more than happy to make the trek and take a break from the transportation nightmare downtown. The fiance, ever the Food Network fan, found this small roadside "diner" in his quest for New England seafood. I understand that New England all have their own personal favorites, so we were down to try out this contender,
We got the small fried oysters, lobster roll with cole slaw, and clam chowder.
The fried oysters were done well, lightly breaded with the body intact, and like fried calamari in appearance. Since the medium plate is double the amount of the small, we stuck with the small. Best fried oysters so far, and decently fresh.
Lobster roll was served on buttered thick white sandwich bread, not quite Texas toast in thickness but almost. The lobster was the second best we had on our trip (the first was in Cambridge) but this was also the most affordable. As with the cole slaw, the amount of mayo is made to order so you can go as light or heavy as you want. Also comes with a pickle!
Our least favorite was the clam chowder, which I would recommend passing on unless you like a layer of melted.butter on top.
Actually also had a veggie.burger on the menu for the vegetarian dining companions... Fyi.
Service was neighborhoody and pleasant. Seat yourself and bus your own tables. Cash only of course. I wouldn't go again, but it was definitely worth visiting once! -
Review from Alex B.
"Lobstah Lobstah Lobstah" was all I could think about when I was up in Ipswich and had learned this place was right nearby through my handy dandy yelp app.
We walked up to the counter to order and definitely hesitated in our ordering. It was a tad brisk and was in between a warm chowder and normal food mood. I was pleasantly surprised when we were given samples of their chowders (haddock and clam chowder). They were both okay to me, but I was impressed more than anything by their invention of the clish chowder. Clish = clam + fish. Get it?
But even after all of that I was in the mood for a lobster roll. Which was up there in terms of the best I have had. It was low on the mayo which is a good thing in my eyes. It was a nice buttered and crunchy on the outside, but soft on the inside roll. I think there was a little too much lettuce packed on here though.
We also got fried clams. I lost my fried clam virginity here. There were so damn many in the order. They were a little chewy, not sure if that is how they should be. The self serve tartar sauce bar allows you to load up as much or little of the stuff as you want.
A few things made me set this place back a few stars. The employees could have been a little more friendly. It might have been a little bit of a "I was featured on the foodnetwork" attitude they had going but I cannot tell for certain.
Also the onion rings and fries that came with the lobster roll were cold and dry. I can honestly say these were some of the worst fries I have ever had in my life. I am almost regretting not going up to the counter and saying something at this very moments that is just how crappy they were.
I guess this is just the type of place you have to come to when you know what to get. -
Review from John Paul G.
Miami Beach, FL
5 stars for location. Grabbing a table outside, overlooking the gorgeous marsh, particularly on a sunny NE day cannot be beat.
5 stars for the service. Friendly, courteous and attentive.
5 stars for the food. Best lobster roll I had while in MA, made to order, with none of the nausea-inducing mayo that plagues so many lobster rolls. Also, the clams are about as fresh as you can get 'em. The clam chowder is divine.
5 stars for the price. Very, very reasonable.
5 stars for the crowd. Mostly locals. Kind of off the beaten-path anyway, which is what I crave.
If you are in this area, you should be, at a minimum, fined for not stopping by Farnham's. -
Review from Roscoe R.
Cambridge, MA
1/14/2012
I was disappointed by Farnham's -- was hoping it'd be on par with Essex Seafood or Woodman's. Clams were okay, but tartar sauce was the dealbreaker. Farnham's serves the most revolting tartar sauce I've ever had. It tasted like the very cheapest sweet relish from the supermarket mixed with the very worst mayonnaise. Really nasty. And, what's worse, they're cash only but no less money than any other clam place around there. It's too bad -- I really wanted this place to be better!
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Review from Damien S.
For the locals, by the locals, so says the locals.
A shack without Woodman's grandeur or the Clam Box shape, Farnham's falls in between visually, on par with the prep, and just below with the flavor. Go ahead; cast your stones.
I liked Farnham's just fine, finding the batter cripsy and light and the assorted seafood spewed forth from the Fisherman's Platter ($25) perfectly adequate. Everything needed a little kick in the pants, from both the salt shaker and the proper tartar sauce. Big ups to the shrimp and scallops, while the thin sole filet fried up a little tough and the bellies, well, they came up short. Fries and rings were fries and rings - neither standing out.
Could have been end of season or just an off-batch, but there was no burst or brine in the bite. The service is stellar, and to survey the stretch of salt marsh over lunch is a welcome escape from whatever ails you (save being stranded in a salt marsh, in which case, stay away). Platters, boxes and boats are priced on par with the big three, but I'd opt elsewhere for clams. They've got Moxie in a can if that's your thing! -
Review from Sarah J.
9/1/2011
In Essex, you fall into one of two categories: The Farnham's lover or the Woodman's lover. As someone who has frequented both over an almost 30 year span, I fall into the Farnham's lover category, hands down. If you like fried clams, Farnham's is your place (I won't trash Woodman's here, but rubbery and tourist trap are a few words that come to mind...). Get a box of clams, serve yourself some tartar sauce from the counter and you are good to go. This is a legit New England clam shack experience, people. If you are a tourist, you will likely be the only one there, but don't worry, people will respect you because you have made the right choice!
Some of my other favorite dishes include the lobster roll (which has the perfect amount of mayo, but I always wish for citrus and end up squeezing some lemon on it), fried scallops (big and juicy and delicious), and the chowder (real chowder that is soupy-none of that stick-to-your spoon crap). Don't bother with fries unless you really have a hankering.
Additional Farnham's perks include an amazing marsh view from inside and out, quick service and short waits (I have never had to wait in line long at Farnham's...maybe I'm just lucky). Yes, parking can be tricky at times and sometimes you have to wait for a table or go eat out on your car hood. So what? It is all part of the experience. I would wait an hour for a table if I had to because it's that good. Haters be gone.Listed in: Yummies with My Honey, Cheap Cheap, Hidden Gems, Meals I Dream About, Pahk the Cah
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Review from Adam C.
8/2/2011 1 photo
I'm certainly no expert on New England seafood shacks, nor am I qualified to weigh in on the ongoing Woodman's/Farnham's debate, but I will say that Farnham's is worth the trip. The picnic tables out by the salt marsh warrant mention in any "most scenic dining spots in N.E." list.
Despite my admitted lack of expertise here I found the fried clams very tasty, offering a perfect level of fried crunch without overkilling it on the grease. The lobster roll also pleased with it's simplicity and obvious freshness. I also applaud serving local microbrews (though you can't take them outside).
Special mention for the staff and the Essex Police Department. During our visit many customers parked illegally on the state bridge, and the police called ahead to warn that they were coming(!!!) so that people had a chance to relocate and avoid getting slapped with tickets. Can you imagine this happening in downtown Boston? I forgot what it felt like not to get shaken down for every last cent. -
Review from John D.
Cambridge, MA
5/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was disappointed. Woodman's crushes this place. This place I thought was pricy and the portions smaller than Woodmans. That did not bother me. My wife and I split the Fisherman's Platter and a side of friend oysters. The batter was FLAVORLESS. When my wife adds salt to something I automatically knew it was going to be a problem. Most of the fish on the platter was fresh but the piece of fish was a bit off texture. The filet was mealy and mushy! I can think of numerous other places on the North Shore other than to return back to J.T. Farnums. I would have given it 1 1/2 stars if I could.
I do not know how they would ever beat Woodmans or the Clam Box in Ipswich in a face off.
Cash only is a bummer as well. -
Review from Anthony L.
Readville, MA
7/6/2011
I drove 50 miles to try what is supposed to be the best fried seafood in New England. I left wishing I hadnt.
- minimum of one hour wait. For us it was 30 minutes to order and another 45 before the food arrived.
- We ordered a medium clam and the fishermans platter. When the food came they brought us a small box mixed with clams and shrimp along with the fishermans. When this was brought to their attention the waitress basically shrugged her shoulders and moved on. Never got the correct order, no compensation, no nothing.
- the tartar sauce is literally a cup of yellow mayo and wasnt refrigerated on a hot day. Ive had better tartar in a caffeteria. It was so bad that I stopped using it.
- the fried shellfish (clams, shrimp, scallops) was good enough considering that I had to eat it with no sauce. But definitely not the best ive had. The fried haddock was mostly breading only very thin flakes of fish, no substance.
I recently have been hearing similar horror stories about this place from regulars. I can only assume that the fame of being on food network has gone to their head. I probably wont be back. -
Review from Catherine G.
Salem, MA
11/25/2011
JT Farnham's is one of my favorite spots for lobstah, rings and steamahs. They also have great fried oystahs and scallops, as well as haddock. Beer and wine are available, so you can get a "cold one" to go with your meal, and they also have different kinds of tonics and soft drinks, including Moxie! How cool is that? Does anyone under 50 even know what Moxie is?
Farnham's also has tasty Angus burgers, and as the cheapest item on the menu, their burger is a great value. Even though the fried seafood dishes are pricey, the servings are bountiful and if you came to Essex to fulfill your seafood Jones, you will not be disappointed. Look at the high cost of fresh, local seafood as an investment in your gustatorial wellbeing.
The view of the great marsh of Essex and Ipswich is hauntingly beautiful, and makes me think of the paintings done in the 19th-century Hudson River School tradition. You can enjoy the scenery from a table by the window indoors, or outside at one of the picnic tables (when greenheads and skeeters aren't too nasty).
The only reason why I don't give Farnham's five stars is that they're closed in the winter, which is a downer when I crave their onion rings and steamers in January.
A few years ago, a house across the street was bought by someone who is not Farnham's-friendly and made a big stink about people parking on the street in front of his house. Now police will ticket you if you park on the street. Technically, the guy has a point since Rt. 133 is a state highway and you're not supposed to be able to park on a state highway unless a sign says it's okay to do so. But I suspect that the jerk in the house just wants to keep the area in front of his house clear so he doesn't have to see any strangers' cars.
Make sure you park in Farnham's lot. Another bummer, since it fills up fast on a summer day, especially weekends.
Still, Farnham's is high on my list of summer pleasures. -
Review from Kelly A.
7/14/2011
This place is seriously my favorite North Shore clam shack stop. Yes, Woodman's is the more "popular" place, but working with a lot of staunch North Shore natives my impression that Woodman's was always more for the tourists where as Farnham's is the true local joint. Both dispute who has the legacy to fried clams.
What I love about this place is that it is solid, well prepared clam shack food at a fare price. If you're looking for a classic lobster roll or fried clams this is it. No it's decidedly not gourmet, but it's the best representation of what it really is.
I truly miss their lobster rolls. The buns were always perfectly toasted and practically bursting with minimally dressed lobster meat. If you're trying a go a "little" healthier the lobster salad is also a great route. You get a very generous portion of lobster over greens and quite honestly, I didn't miss the carbs.
The clams are also great. They are perfectly fried and the right ratio of meat to breading.
As far as the wait goes, I've never experienced anything as lengthy as what some of the reviewers have mentioned, despite having been on many summer weekends as well as lunchtime during the week. I can imagine food and ambiance could suffer as a result, but never have experienced anything less than great.
In short, this place is truly fantastic. I live in Chicago now but next time I'm back in Boston it's on my 'must stop' list. -
Review from Lorrie C.
Marlborough, MA
7/30/2011
I am reviewing JT Farnham's based on a busy, summer Saturday night visit and am reviewing the whole experience. Previously, I have gone to Woodman's when in the Essex area and decided to try JT Farnham's based on the recent buzz from the Food Network. It seems that JT Farnham's is a mom-and-pop type clam shack that is not prepared to deal with large crowds.
Parking - There isn't much. There are signs all along the highway indicating no parking but when you get up to the restaurant there are signs there that indicate you can park where the highway signs say "no parking". It's just very confusing.
The Line - The line was long and was not moving. At one point the line shifted inside and then one server tried to get everyone to shift back outside. She didn't have a loud voice or authoritative presence, so it was kind of chaotic for a few minutes. I was crushed between the person in front of me and the line behind me until I turned around and loudly asked the back of the line to move back, which wasn't really my job.
The ordering process - When I got to the front of the line I understood why the line wasn't moving. The cashier was taking about 5 minutes per party to take the order, ring up the bill, and make change. I realize I was not going for a fast food experience and while I appreciate the friendliness, there was a long line, I was hungry, and it was irritating to realize the cashier was the reason for the wait. She was chatting with the customer 2 parties in front of us about onion rings at various places, and she helped the person in front of us clean out all the $10 bills from her wallet, so it's not like the conversation was only about the menu or ordering process.
Food - We ordered the fried clam strip dinner and a half pint of fried oysters. I cannot fault the food we ordered; the clams were meaty, sweet, and not greasy. We had planned to order the clam chowder but decided against it when the person ahead of us said it was watery and when we saw it being reheated in the microwave.
Seating - The dining room is very small and on this night, very hot. We planned to sit outside when we got our food. We sat down at the picnic tables and were immediately bitten by hundreds of little tiny bugs. Our food did come out pretty quickly, and rather than wait for a table while our food got cold, we ended up eating in our car. We saw other people also eating in their cars.
So, overall I give JT Farnham's a 4 out of 5 for the food and a 2 out of 5 for service/ overall experience, which I averaged to a 3 out of 5 overall. I would like to see Farnham's streamline their ordering process and expand the seating area. It would also be nice if they could accept credit cards and add a raw bar. In the future, my husband and I will stick with Woodman's on busy nights. -
Review from Jarrod C.
Reading, MA
6/20/2011
I love JT Farnham's. I don't care who has better clams - Farnham's or Woodmans. I'm not a fired clam enthusiast and don't claim to be. I do know that Farnham's has more of a selection for other options, including GREAT grilled chicken sandwiches, burgers, and onion rings. If you're looking for food that hasn't been bathed in oil, the chicken sandwich with Cajun seasoning is fantastic!
Tip: sit outside and get a view of the marsh. It's way better than being inside, as it tends to get noisy around lunch time. Service is no frills but reliable, and there's jugs of free water. Farnham's is definitely a wonderful place to grab lunch! -
Review from B L.
Waltham, MA
8/15/2011
Overrated!
My great-uncle swears by Farnhams and turned my folks onto it as well. I'm told that its better than Woodmans and cheaper. Since I haven't been to Woodmans in years I don't think I could accurately make a comparison but here's a bit about my experience at Farnham's this past weekend.
First of all parking can be an issue. People do to and from frequently but if you park on the street and not in their small lot be aware of signs. Cops ride up and down and ticket about ever 30 min.
We walked in and got in line to order. I went for a lobster roll and small fried clams. My wife who is vegetarian ordered a veggie burger and coleslaw.
We waited for our food FOREVER! It wasn't even busy and we waited like 30 minutes for food. Come on. Then my wife comes to the table with the food and she's pissed. Her veg burger did not come with fries as advertised. Since they don't give receipts (CASH ONLY BTW) she couldn't check to see how the cashier wrote it up when the 14 year old girl working the pickup window defended the frie-less plate by saying she wrote it up with a coleslaw substitute. Seems like a really worthwhile argument to have with a customer over a lousy hand full of fries.
Once she sits down to eat she bites into the veggie burger and its MEXICAN flavored. Seriously? OK I know to have the lowest expectations possible when bringing a vegetarian anywhere enjoyable but they could AT LEAST properly advertise what they are selling. She brought it back and they relented- made her a grilled cheese with french fries and did not charge her again.
Hardly worth the aggravation and by the way- the friend clams were overcooked and dry. Lobster roll was fine but nothing to go out of your way for. If I had to go back I think I'd stick to the $22.00 lobster dinner. Just make sure they don't fuck up your check. -
Review from Casey B.
South Hamilton, MA
5/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
My family and I have been coming to this restaurant since I was little.... I love that it has amazing seafood and always has a line out the door! And it has beer/wine too. Definitely a plus :)
P.S. You should definitely add Mimosas and Bloody M's for a Sunday Brunch! -
Review from Brady F.
Newton, MA
7/17/2011
I shared a lobster roll and fried haddock sandwich. The food is fine.
The service is exceptionally bad. I don't expect much from the wait staff when I'm eating off a paper plate, but two employees were downright rude to me. That's unacceptable.
- A teenaged waitress/bus girl shouted at me because I broke the rules by drinking a beer at an outdoor picnic table. She reprimanded me so loudly that people at the surrounding tables stopped speaking. I also witnessed this girl shout at an old man because she was confused about his order. Completely disrespectful.
- The woman at the pick-up window gave me attitude when I arrived prematurely to retrieve my food. She should be aware that it's impossible to understand the numbers she calls out through an old speaker.
Look, I know the restaurant is slammed -- I waited a while for my food, after all -- but that's no reason to treat your customers like dirt. -
Review from Alicia D.
Boston, MA
9/5/2011
I have been to both places. However, I do love the way Farnhams sits on the water. I didn't really like seeing the mouse run around outside but I guess it's just the location. However, the clams were awesome and it was very sweet batter. I didn't like that the lady only gave us one tartar and wouldn't give us anymore until I went in there and asked for more because we had so many clams. It was good though!
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Review from Andrew M.
Cambridge, MA
8/8/2011
Don't bother. The wait is forever - you're making seafood, not a 4 course dinner - and they foul up orders
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Review from David G.
Manchester, NH
8/11/2011
Stopped in for lunch to introduce some out of town guests to Ipswich clams. This was my first visit. It was a disappointment. The clam prices were high and the quality poor. The clams lacked flavor and were a bit over done. I have heard so many great reviews about this place, what a let down!
I also tried the red scallop chowder. This was particularly bad. No scallops, no scallop flavor, just over cooked potatoes with a stew like consistency.
My friend had the clam chowder, he was not impressed.
Like Woodman's, Farnums seems to be living off their reputation.
Cash only? When you charge that much for so little? -
Review from julia r.
Brooklyn, NY
Updated - 8/9/2011
i just got my summer fix from farnhams! it was as fabulous as ever. YUM!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/15/2009
5 stars for farnham's! my family has been coming here for years. we love to get grilled haddock… Read more »
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Review from Eunice B.
Austin, TX
8/30/2010
I'm not afraid of grease and fried food but this place is seriously overrated.
We tried our luck here as the queue at Woodman's was ridiculous and it was a hot afternoon. We should have waited or driven back to Boston.
At first, we were a little disappointed by the small size of the portions (OK - I have spent way too much time in Texas!). However, after trying the food we were grateful there was not much of it!
I ordered the chowder - it was seriously flavourless. The calamari and octopus were overcooked and the batter horrible. The haddock was also blah and even the chips were a fail for me.
Maybe the clams are the way to go but my guess is the business doesn't need to care about the food, as it receives a steady flow of customers who don't want to wait at Woodman's -
Review from Patricia W.
Portland, OR
9/19/2010 1 Check-in Here
5 years! 5 freakin' years I have waited to come back here for a Lobster roll. You never realize how much you miss this food until you've lived in Oregon for 20 years. Along with the roll I ordered the fried clams and onion rings (just call me a pig) although the clams were delicious I serioulsy should have just ordered a second lobster roll. There are several places around to get these but the minute you have a bite you know you are eating the best.
I cannot wait to go back. -
Review from M P.
Salem, MA
7/3/2011
Was disappointed, brought friends here who have never been actually they always go to Woodman's. I convinced them to try Farmham's. Sadly long line (25 min) do not accept credit cards only cash, ATM on premise for a $2.00 surcharge 19.95 for fried clam plate which had French Fries and Onion rings. Clam Boat (same amount of clams) 14.95 only thing missing Onion. Also ordered chowder which was watery and onion tasting not a fan... Also woman behind counter black hair and glasses was like a prison warden yelling at us line was too long move outside no please or thank you.... Overall experience was mediocre and will not run back or recommend
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Review from D M.
Framingham, MA
9/7/2010
I had wanted to go here for years and I'm so disappointed. First off, the place is way too small and the picnic tables are right next to the cars/road. The food was a huge disappointed to me. I have a "bowl" of clam chowder ($6) and my wife had a "bowl" of seafood chowder ($9) - they were both decent, but not worth the price. They're cups - not bowls.
My wife had the lobster roll which she really liked and I had a combo of clams and shrimp. This was the really disappointing part - the clams are average at best. I haven't been to a lot of clam spots on the north shore - but Woodman's are much better. The clams down the Cape are sooo much better than these. Next stop for Essex I'm trying the Clam Box - they have to be better than Farnham's. -
Review from curt w.
Somerville, MA
8/17/2010
UPDATE: We went during their last week....end of November 2011...and everything we ordered was spot-on. Highly recommended: Fried Clams, Fried Scallops, Onion Rings, Cole Slaw. They will be re-opening in March or April. Call to find out the exact dates. It's worth the trip for sure!!!
Yeah, this place rules.
Highly recommended: Scallops, Clams, Onion Rings. Its all fried, perfectly. Delicious cole slaw too, and nice friendly service.
Sure there are other clam places around the area, no doubt they are good too, but we've never strayed from Farnham's- they've yet to give us reason to. -
Review from Ian W.
9/28/2007 3 photos
While taking a drive on the North Shore, I stumbled upon this roadside clam shack, which serves fried seafood, rolls, chowders, and boxes. It's an order at the counter place with table seating and bar seating inside. There's also a condiment station and a water jug with plastic cups in the dining area. There's plenty of picnic table seating outside in the gravel parking lot along the Essex Salt Marsh, a nice view. Pick up your food inside or at the outdoor pickup window (if eating outside).
I ordered Fried Clam Strips Basket with Fries and a bowl of New England Clam Chowder. The broth in the Chowder was not thick, but the broth was very tasty from lots of minced sweet clams, potatoes, cream, & seasoning. The Fried Clams and Fries were fried golden brown to perfection. The Fried Clams were soooo good!! sweet and crispy.
Nothing like enjoying my clams outside along the salt marsh on a sunny day!
NOTE: Please do not feed the gulls!! Limited parking on site and across the road along Route 133 eastbound. -
Review from Jeff G.
9/9/2008
I can never remember the name of this place until I get back here. In my mind I think of it as the cool little place, not the big monster tourist joint down the road. No question that this place can get busy and they do sell T Shirts, but it's not the tourist joint that Woodmans is(Woodmans has a gift shop for crying out loud). Heck, these guys don't even take plastic, just cash and checks.
The clams really are that good. For one thing, they get to start with the delicious Essex clams that are just so sweet. But the proof's in the frying and I've never had an overcooked clam, or scallop or oyster. I actually think they have the best fried Oysters I've ever had and I've been making a carefull study of this in my many years on this planet. I veered off my usual course and tried a lobster roll this time. It was okay, but I'll stick with the fried stuff in the future.
If I have one complaint it's that they have a signed full size poster of that dope from the Food Network who wears the two toned hair, the stupid shorts and has sunglass glued to his head. I guess they did a segment there. But I really don't want to look at that wingnut staring at me while I try to enjoy my fried goodness. -
Review from Sean E.
Cambridge, MA
8/29/2008
Indeed this is as good as it gets when talkin about fried clams. Also, the view of the Essex/Ipswich marsh is unbeatable. And they sell Moxie, for all you weirdos out there that can stomach that stuff.
But the clams... my god, JT Farnhams is where good clams go to die, and be fried in the most deliciously delicate batter. They're remarkable absent of the chewy rubbery ones you'll find at a lot of places. Big bellied heaven here. The taste of the sea melting in your mouth... I could eat these things all day, sitting at the picnic table, watching the tide roll away... Amazing.
Very friendly staff. You're not dealing with the high school kids that populate the staff of some other clam shacks. These are seasoned professionals here who know how to make you feel at home. This is the winner so far on the 2008 tour. -
Review from Yvonne W.
New York, NY
9/21/2009 4 photos
This place was mentioned in the 36-Hours in Cape Ann article in the Times, and since we had already been to the two other clam shacks that were mentioned, we knew we had to come here our second time around in the area.
The feel of JT Farnham's is a lot cozier and cuter than Woodman's, which definitely has a more commercial vibe to it. Farnham's is a lot smaller, and the service is pretty friendly and patient while you decide what you want to order. I like the decor of Farnham's with their little tables, and I especially like the outdoor seating area, which consists of a bunch of picnic tables overlooking a nice marsh.
For the clams -- they were really good, obviously fresh and fried to order, but I couldn't help but mention that they were not seasoned -- at all. There was pretty much no seasoning neither on the clams nor the onion rings/french fries that we had. Is this because we're supposed to dunk them into the tartar sauce (or for other people, ketchup)? It was kind of disappointing. The onion ring batter also seemed sort of plastic-like, which was a big turn-off for me.
A lot of people here have said that JT Farnham's has better prices than Woodman's, but if I read the menu correctly, the prices seem to be about the same.
I think that the Clam Box had better clams than Farnham's to be honest, because when I remember the Clam Box, I don't remember the clams being underseasoned. Seasoning is really important!! But they do get kudos for friendly service, cute dining area, and their outdoor seating area with the view of the marsh. -
Review from Rachel D.
Los Angeles, CA
8/27/2008
Places like this make me goddamn proud to be a Masshole. Could you ask for something more than eating succulent fried clams on a picnic table looking at a beautiful salt marsh and enjoying your home state's total domination of professional sports? (See this is my review so I can pretend the superbowl ended differently.)
We asked whether we should get fried oysters or fried clams. "It's a no-brainah!" The clams are local, the oysters from Maryland.
The fried clams are neither greasy nor gritty, but tender and crunchy. The seafood chowder is really good - a cream base like clam chowder, but light and brothy, and swimming with lobster, fish, scallops and clams. YUM.Listed in: Masshole Forever
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Review from ladyjane s.
Cambridge, MA
8/2/2010
This place is easily 5 stars just for clams. They beat out all of my other fave clam spots for these specific reasons:
-sweet, tender, fresh clam meat
-simple, crunchy breading
-no grit factor
-no gross fried after-taste that some places leave you with (I'm lookin at you, Clam Box of Quincy)
That being said, has anyone actually ordered soup here? I was pretty horrified watching them take the containers out of the fridge and throw them in the microvave before giving them to customers. That ain't cool.
Also, the set-up here is disasterous. There is only one person behind the counter taking orders (and answering the phone, and prepping take-out, and microwaving soup...) and just getting through the line to order takes for-eh-VER.
Go on an off-hour. Order clams. Enjoy. -
Review from Ted L.
Austin, TX
8/13/2009 2 photos
5 stars is the only option here!! Whole belly clams... fried, crispy, salty, sweet... DECLICIOUS!!! This place is the REAL DEAL folks... You gotta go get some if you're close! The site is beautiful as well, on a salt marsh. I can't wait to go back!
Keep in mind, cash or check only, no credick :)Listed in: Triple D spots I've tried
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Review from MätthewMichæl S.
Pleasant Hill, CA
8/11/2010 2 photos
Hailing from Gloucester, MA, I think I know a thing or two about fried clams...Farnham's does too.
This is the best fried clam you will ever get. And yes even better than Woodman's. This place is an institution, being one of a few places claiming to "invent" the fried clam. But surprisingly, its the recent improvements that really make it shine.
Over the course of my life, I watched Farnham's really deteriorate, becoming the kind of place that only cleans it fryers once a season. But something happened over the last few years...perhaps new management? Whatever happened, it works.
The whole belly clams are the way to go, fresh as you can possibly find (it almost makes you wonder if they still get them from the marsh behind the place). They're lightly battered with a truly simple, but delicious and unique batter. Then combine that with some lemon, their great tartar sauce, and of course a Sam Adams Summer Ale.
This place delivers timeless classics, with perfect execution and a ton of local heart. When you factor in the beautiful marsh view, and old-timey feel of this place, you get a culinary experience that is truly emblematic of classic New England, and even more so the North Shore.
For those that think its pricey, just remember how hard fresh clams are to come by (They are really getting over harvested). Also note how you never get even a grain of sand in the clams at Farnham's (they take the time to clean them right). These things take great care accomplish, and I for one and willing to pay a bit more for it. -
Review from Dave M.
Cambridge, MA
10/8/2008
These are the best fried clams I've had in Mass. so far.
My first, and only complaint about this place is it's size versus their volume. There was basically nowhere to park (It was a saturday at 1pm though...), and the entire dining room was full. Which was fine, because only a wackadoo would prefer that to viewing their private salt marsh; which happens to be a beautiful sight.
We ordered the full belly clam plate, and the scallop plate. Before I get to the shellfish, let me say this, the fries were lackluster. However, the onion rings that came with the plate were amazingly well done, some of the best I've had in a long time.
The clams, the scallops... so well done. The clams had deep flavor, but none of the grit or grease that I've found from other mongers. These are some pretty big clams as well, a couple were "two-biters". The scallops were sweet, juicy, and perfectly done. This is high quality shellfish, handled masterfully.
Some notables, the haddock filets are huge, and look good. The crab cakes are crazy tasty, but a little "joan of arc", and Moxie isn't too bad... it's kinda like a soda that someone forgot to finish.
I'll be back next year, because they close at the end of October and stay closed until April. (Nice vacation, no?) IF you can, get up there, get some clams, and check out the marsh, you just can't beat that setting. -
Review from JW B.
Berkeley, CA
7/14/2010
This is a tough one for me -- I am generally a VERY healthy eater and rarely go for fried foods (except the occasional salt & pepper squid). But I had the opportunity today to try out the clams from this place, and to tell the truth, they weren't bad!
The breading tasted more cornmeal-ish than floury, and there was really no grease visible on the clams, or on my fingers after handling them. So given that they're fried, I say 'kudos'.
The onion rings were also pretty good -- there was a real crunch to the onions inside the breading. Made you feel as if you were actually getting a vegetable! -
Review from Winston H.
Boxford, MA
8/2/2009
As of Aug 1, 2009 the clam & scallop plate is $23.00
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However, no cole slaw included...BUT all the tartar sauce you can eat!
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AND free water on the counter...
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We'll be back! -
Review from Rose F.
Beverly, MA
8/4/2010
Its the big debate - Farnham's or Woodman's - well today about 10 of us visited Farnhams for a weekday lunch.
The parking is VERY limited. We all had to do circles several times to find a place alongside the street. Once there we got a couple of the picnic tables on the side that overlook the marsh.
Food was o.k. Several of us got the lobster roll ($15) which was excellent. It came with fries or onion rings (ok, Woodman's has way better). The lobster was very light on the mayo and a nice buttered roll. The crab salad was delicious, again light on the mayo this garden salad had a generous portion of crabmeat.
The service isn't anything to write home about. When they called the order they only had about half of it ready to go. They aren't accommodating about giving you trays. The door jams up and its impossible to move around inside. They do not take credit cards.
It was ok. If you can find a place to park, don't want to wait in the Woodman's line, and want a good lobster roll this is a good place. -
Review from Ting S.
6/11/2009
It's been 5 years since I've lived in Boston, and I still think of the clams at this shack on a regular basis - there's just no comparison! I used to make the drive here from Brighton just for the clams, and now living 5 hours away, I'd still make that same trip without a second thought.
The clams are consistently large, fresh and juicy, and fried in the lightest, freshest oil. After taking some relatives here once, I had to come back and get a large order to take on the plane with me to bring them a second tasting. The service here is so good, the people even underfried the clams for me, so that when they were re-heated on the other coast, the clams would be perfectly done.
I've tootled around all the other clam shacks in this area, and this is my favorite.Listed in: Sometimes retail therapy…, Craveables
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Review from Jason C.
Boston, MA
8/23/2009
As summer winds down, I find myself reflecting on some of the better days of the past few months. One lazy Saturday stands out, and JT Farnham's played a big role in that.
After a few hours of laying on the beach, we decided to head over to Essex for seafood. Neither Mercedes nor I had ever been to Woodman's or JT Farnham's, but we'd heard enough to know that either one would be great. We ended up choosing Farnham's based on the assumption that it wouldn't be as crowded.
Clams were a no-brainer for me. We ended up getting a clam and scallop combo plate, and a shrimp boat. Fortunately it wasn't to crowded, so were able to get a picnic table by the salt marsh and 15 minutes later our food was ready.
The clams were amazing. Lightly-battered, whole belly clams done just right. Without a doubt, the best I've ever tasted. Delicious as they were, I had obviously come in with expectations, and though they didn't disappoint at all, I was basically getting what I expected. The scallops, on the other hand, were a pleasant surprise. Big, juicy portions full of flavor. The batter didn't stay on too well, but to me that just shows that they weren't overcooked. The shrimp were fine, but ultimately nothing special. We combined our fries into one big pile and soaked them in malt vinegar. A delightfully unhealthy feast on a gorgeous, sunny day.
Sitting by the salt marsh certainly adds to the experience. We watched the ducks swim back and forth, took pictures of seagulls perched on a nearby cottage and watched a few locals come in by boat.
I may have to go to Woodman's next time I'm in Essex, and throw in my two cents on this debate over seafood superiority, but it will be tough to turn down the sure thing and enjoy another afternoon at JT Farnham's. -
Review from Holly S.
Waltham, MA
8/24/2008
I used to think Woodman's was the end-all, be-all for fried clams on the North Shore. And then I came to JT Farnham's on my way home from Crane's Beach--and can't say enough good things about the crispy sweet goodness going on here.
The perfect balance between batter and clam. The clams themself were light and sweet--and not gritty. And, surprisingly enough, they weren't particularly greasy.
I'm sure this place gets pretty busy on weekends--and the seating is not as plentiful as Woodman's. Service is a weebit surly and colorful. Nevertheless, the fried clams here are definitely worth the wait . . .
