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Old-school seafood shack serving the local catch in a homey setting with views of the Essex River.
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J.T. Farnhams | Essex MA – Facebook
J.T. Farnhams, Essex. 6028 likes · 16 talking about this · 10713 were here. SEASONAL Mom&Pop clam shack open March through Christmas is located on Eben…
J.T. Farnhams: The Ultimate Seafood Experience on the North Shore
JT Farnham’s, located in Essex, MA, has been a cherished seafood destination since 1941, serving up the best fried clams and classic New England dishes.
J.T. Farnham’s [Essex, MA] – Boston, New England – Hungry Onion
We stopped in at JT Farnham’s for some seafood chowder ($14 for 12 oz.) and a couple other items – fried clam roll ($29) for me and the crab cake special ($19) …
Reviews
Stephen Snow
So glad we drove 64 r/t miles in mid-December to try J. T. Farnhams (now known as ‘Farnhams’) located in charming Essex, MA. We entered into a warm, homey and casual atmosphere with wooden settle bench seatings and tables with chairs. After you place your order and pay at the register, grab some napkins and plastic cutlery and have a seat. Your order will be promptly delivered to your table. The ‘Fishermen’s Combo’ had a generous fried haddock filet over a bed of clams, shrimp, scallops, onion rings and optional Cole slaw. The piping hot haddock was tender, the clams, small bellies were so sweet, the scallops, slightly overcooked but tender inside and juicy. The Cole slaw was finely grated and refreshing, my companion thought more dressing was needed. Ketchup and a wonderful home-made tartar sauce completed our shared meal and it was plenty for two with some taken home. The staff were so very nice and pleasant. On display is a trophy, awarded to Farnhams by the Food Network for the best fried clams. The loser, Woodmen’s. In warmer weather, there are outside benches to use and to enjoy the view of the marsh and meandering waterways. Clean unisex bathroom. We will return again.
… morePeter Smithy
Over the years I’ve been back here more often than Woodmans and for good reason. The price brings a quality and a freshness you are looking for with fried seafood and a really authentic environment, look no further. It’s worth the wait.
… moreOwen
The absolute best fried clams I’ve ever had. Why? First of all, they use just the lightest coating possible so that you add flavor and texture without drowning out the taste of the clams. Secondly, they use a healthy, easy to digest canola oil and they don’t overuse the oil. For $30 you get a big pile of these delicious clams and a side. I get the coleslaw which is excellent, but of course you can get fries or other things.
… moreKhalid Anwar
If you’re looking for fried clams then this is the place. There is another place for fried clams Woodmans but selected this one because of its location on salty marshes with beautiful views. Seating is available on the side of the marshes and inside the restaurant. It’s a cash only and self service eatery, a casual place to eat.
It has more seafood options to choose from but in Essex fried clams are iconic food.
Highly recommended.
… moreIt has more seafood options to choose from but in Essex fried clams are iconic food.
Highly recommended.
Michael Mararian
I went with my cousin the other day. We had a great meal. (They are cash only just so you know) I got the half-and-half plate of fried clams and scallops. They were tasty. The clams were on the smaller side, but that’s OK. They were still delectable and the scallops were done perfect. Parking is a little crazy over since there are only seven or eight spots out front so you have to park on the street across the way. But overall well with the trip.
… moreRoman Jurkovic
Been here couple of times already. There is a small parking lot so it can be tricky to park during season. Check opening hours as they do not match. I rather called if they are open during weekends now in December. Lobster roll is very tasty. We love buttered version. It was around $30 with fries – normal price. I was disappointed by the chowder. It was a watery soup and not a creamy chowder (see photo). You can pay CASH ONLY so be prepared as sea food is pricey. Nice place to take your out of city/state/country family after/during a day trip on Cape Ann.
… moreB H
I’m gf. Love Farnam’s gf choices. Never had an issue. Though I am not celiac. Fresh fish! Love the scallops and haddock. Great tartar sauce. Nice staff!
Love Farnam’s! Worth the 40 minute trip!
… moreLove Farnam’s! Worth the 40 minute trip!
Richard Crotts (Dick)
A great place for fried seafood, especially the fried clams. It is a cash only restaurant. The seafood is delicious, with light batter not at all greasy – very light.
… moreJay Curley
My first time here June 19,24.
Excellent service, excellent food. My only complaint was the rude parents of two toddlers who allowed their children to bang on the walls and run around like screaming banshees!
What is wrong with people? If you have kids and take them to a restaurant you are responsible for teaching the children proper restaurant manners!
You should not make all the other patrons have to listen and watch your children act like animals.
Back to the food, undoubtedly the best fried clams and onion rings I have had and I plan to return.
Hopefully without having to listen to out of control children!
… moreExcellent service, excellent food. My only complaint was the rude parents of two toddlers who allowed their children to bang on the walls and run around like screaming banshees!
What is wrong with people? If you have kids and take them to a restaurant you are responsible for teaching the children proper restaurant manners!
You should not make all the other patrons have to listen and watch your children act like animals.
Back to the food, undoubtedly the best fried clams and onion rings I have had and I plan to return.
Hopefully without having to listen to out of control children!
M Fuller
Took a 10yo advice and ordered fries. She was right. BEST EVER. Don’t have to get standard fried seafood! Blackened haddock tacos so good I couldn’t finish. Buffalo bites good too! The Atmosphere inside & out- Drive your boat on up! Beautiful scenery to view, old timers stories to hear. You want the NE experience this is it. No alcohol outside.
… more