Clam Box - Ipswich, MA

Posted By Michael Stern on June 1, 2006 8:24 PM

The Clam Box is shaped like a clam box, the trapezoidal container in which fried-clams-to-go are customarily served. It is a genuine roadside attraction that dates back some sixty years and would be of interest for its looks alone. Under the stewardship of Marina “Chickie” Aggelakelis, the restaurant has thrived. In addition to maintaining and enhancing its unique looks, Chickie has made the Clam Box a standard for fried-clam excellence. In our opinion, this is the place to eat the best fried clams on the North Shore; and since the North Shore is home of the best fried clams anywhere, these are the best fried clams in the universe.

The best way to have them is as a platter: a plate piled high with modest-size whole-bellied clams, French fries, and onion rings. You’ll get a little tartar sauce for dipping and some wonderful sweet cole slaw which is a necessary part of the clam-eating experience, for it helps cut the grease of so much fried food. But the truly wonderful thing about Clam Box fried clams is how greaseless they seem. They are luscious and crunchy, no doubt about that; but you’ll have no oily fingers after plowing through a plate.

There is indoor seating, and across the parking lot from the building there are picnic tables for al fresco dining. Throughout most of the summer, expect a wait in line at mealtimes. The Clam Box is famous, deservedly so.

Overall Rating

fried clam platter

Chowder

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Posted By Marshall on August 15, 2011 8:33 PM

On a recent trip to Massachusetts we went to several clam shacks in the Gloucester area. We absolutely loved the fried clams at Clam Box! Not only were they crunchy but they had a buttery flavor that couldn't be matched.

We did not find our wait to be too terribly long, either. If you go to one place for fried clams in that area, we would recommend Clam Box.

Overall Rating

Fried Clams Mini-Meal

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Posted By Patti Menow on June 26, 2011 8:29 PM

Nice place, very small and difficult to get a seat. We visited in October and most places were closed for the season. The Clam Box was very busy, good food!

Overall Rating

Fried Clams Mini-Meal

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