J.T. Farnham’s

J.T. Farnham’s has been serving whole-belly fried clams on the Essex River since 1941, and the locals who’ve been coming back ever since will tell you it’s still the best in town. Soft-shell Ipswich clams, lightly battered and fried to order, are the main event, tender, fresh, and made with none of the shortcuts that have crept into lesser shacks.

The homemade chowders are equally serious, the blackened fish tacos have their own devoted following, and the specials board changes with the catch. Indoor dining looks out over the salt marsh; outdoor picnic tables sit alongside Eben Creek with views across the Essex River.