Old-school seafood shack serving the local catch in a homey setting with views of the Essex River. Based on 924 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.4 stars. Price $$
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Takeout ✔️ No delivery
Address:
88 Eastern Ave, Essex, MA 01929
Phone: (978) 768-6643
Social Profile: 
Hours
| Saturday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Monday
(Labor Day)
|
11 AM–8 PM
Hours might differ
|
| Tuesday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM–8 PM |
Menu
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Menu Photos
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Reviews
Janeen Poon Kwong-Glenn
In a quaint location with picnic tables next to peaceful marshlands, so it’s a great little stop for anyone seeking some tranquility, good food and easy access (it’s right next to the roadside). Had the famous fried clams, and while the batter was a little less seasoned than I had hoped, the shellfish were fresh and paired well with the tartar sauce and sides. Would love if they could get credit card facilities for international customers though. Prices are a tad bit higher than other seafood places I’ve visited around the area, but you pay for the reputation, freshness, service and location, and as a sustainable and local business, we’d definitely recommend.
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Darrell Stam
Really fresh seafood! The shrimp, haddock, and clam strips were so good and perfectly fried. The lobster rolls were succulent and the seafood chowder had huge pieces of shrimp, scallops, and lobster. Yum! There is always a line so be prepared to wait. They only accept cash so leave your credit cards at home.
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Mark Greenwood
This is where the locals go. Not the McDonald’s of seafood like “Hoodman’s of Wessex” everything is made fresh. So much better food than “Hoodmans” You may need to wait a little longer for your “Steamed lobster” but it’s not pre-cooked, iced and reheated. That way is gross and makes it rubbery. Trust the locals!! Joy is the sweetest woman in the seafood business. Took care of me and my son! Couldn’t be happier.
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RoadTrip NewEngland
There’s a big 3 for fried clams on the North Shore and Farnham’s is one of our favorites. A small box of clams is just about enough to split, especially if you get fries and coleslaw on the side. Good size portions. Try the lemonade, and the seafood chowder is really amazing. There’s a small but usually full lot next to the restaurant that overlooks the marsh- and tables if you want to eat outside. Big thumbs up.
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Sara Sadri
Great place to stop and grab some quick seafood eats! I had the fish chowder and fish and shrimp tacos in pictures. Their lemonade is so fresh and not overly sweet!
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Jeff Phillips
While the servings are very generous and we all cleaned our plates, but other than the Cole slaw, the food was no better than we’ve had at other clam and fish restaurants. The place is clean, but the booths are rather cramped, and I’m a skinny fellow, so if you are rotund, you’ll want to sit at one of the tables.
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Russell Sternlicht
I got the fries haddock and fish chowder. I didn’t care for the chowder but it was worth it just for the fish. Cool atmosphere next to the marsh, very fresh products, and overall good tasting food
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Mark Aengenheyster
Best seafood on Cape Ann. Haddock boat was overflowing with moist, piping hot fish. For only $15. Scallop chowder had lots of big not-dried-out scallops. Everything we’ve ever had here was great. Nice view from the outdoor seating which is rustic picnic tables. You can’t bring alcohol outside though.
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Roy Gardner
Great location for eating outside. Prompt and friendly service. Clams, rings, and fries were expertly fried. Tasty hot dog as well. Clam chowder was on the thin side, but flavor was satisfying.
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Tim
Fried oysters are the bomb. And I love clam bellies. Super light fried…not greasy at all. Very tender and perfect every time. Indoor and outdoor seating. Outdoor picnic benches on the river. No liquor license tho. Pro tip: bring a Yeti with your favorite mix…
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