I've been wanting to go here since they opened but I haven't for a couple of reasons. Driving by in the summer it is ALWAYS packed. As a local I trend to avoid those crowds. The second is because it looks so darn confusing. Finally yesterday I stopped in. The bartender was AMAZING, so sweet. The atmosphere is so fun, and comfortable. The clam dip was beyond AMAZING! The only downfall is the brand of ketchup they use. All sugar and the sweetness really took away from the hotdog and fries I had. Steamers were great and I will be back but probably with my own ketchup! Seriously, that stuff was foul! read more

We visited this little gem 2 1/2 years ago. We thought it was good, but never went back. My wife and I were in the area yesterday and saw it was open for the season. We had the most incredible lunch! This little gem has so much to offer. Great seafood, wonderful staff and very interesting places on site to enjoy your meal. Alyissa behind the counter is your first contact at the restaurant, she has so much personality, helpful and not hard on the eyes. I would encourage YELP ELITES to have an event there, it's perfect. Please check it out. read more

My friend and I met up in Portland for the day. I enjoy trying lobster rolls and she likes to try clam chowder. This is a cute spot on the outskirts of the Old Port - with planes flying closely overhead. The people were friendly. The fries and lobster roll were good. The lobster had a little bit of creme sauce. I didn't mind it - but it isn't a traditional Maine lobster roll. The clam chowder was not a New England clam chowder. There weren't many clams, and it had a clear broth - fennel, bacon, and herbs. Perfect for the lactose-intolerant - just not traditional. I would visit again - for a drink and social time, despite the aircraft. read more

Clam Bar - CLAM CHOWDER LOBSTER ROLL - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

On a Sunday afternoon, the wife and I decided we were going to swing by this little roadside stand and eating area. The experience was surprisingly great and the food was pretty outstanding. I had the clam chowder which was a much different chowder than I've ever had before, as it wasn't cream based, nor was it red sauce, but was delicious riddled with bacon, bits, and many herbs and spices. The clam roll that I had was Hardy and delicious as you could probably see by the photo. My wife had the fried fish sandwich and fries and thought it was great. The staff was wonderful, they were super friendly and they had pretty great looking merchandise that you could buy for the clam roll especially my favorite was a Wu-Tang reference shirt that I wanted to pick up. The ambience is great, although a little noisy right next to many cars going to South Portland and downtown along with the planes flying above every few minutes, but the lights hanging from the sky and the picnic tables and everything is a nice touch for a summertime treat. I definitely recommend this place if you want some fresh seafood at reasonable prices. read more

See all

We traveled to Maine for 4 hrs in driving rain only to find it was going to snow where our restaurant for Thanksgiving dinner was located. We checked into our hotel, that served dinner but by reservation on Thanksgiving and we didn't make a reservation, didn't expect we'd need one. Next best thing was to order fried clams and a lobster roll from the Portland clam bar! The fried clams were delicious and crispy along with the fries that had a nice crunch on the outside and were soft and warm on the inside. Cole slaw was tangy, dressing a bit on the vinegary side. The lobster roll was huge, with a perfectly toasted and buttery hot dog bun, loaded with sweet lobster meat. Not a traditional Thanksgiving for sure, but it will do read more

Clam Bar - Whole belly FRIED CLAM BASKET - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

See all

Super cute place right off the highway. There are picnic tables with umbrellas, a open air tent area that can have roll down windows for inclement weather, and a little beer garden to the side. Service was friendly. Bathrooms are decent. We ordered a clam roll and the fish and chips. The french fries were so good! The clam roll was ok, I just personally prefer straight up breaded, fried clams, where this roll had seasoning which I didnt love. But I'm sure the average person would love it. The fish that came with fish & chips was stunningly beautiful. The batter gave a wonderful crust and the fish was a nice cut and was perfectly cooked. I would definitely go back and try a few other things off their menu. read more

Clam Bar - FISH & CHIP - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

See all

Was excited to try the steamers. Kind of rubbery and sandy. I liked the easy outdoor low vibe of the shack but the food just wasn't good enough. Pass read more

Went here last night for the first time after eating to try it out for so long so we were excited to finally get here. They have such a cool little spot next to the shipyard with so many seating options outside! Service was super friendly and quick. They have such a great spot here and it's perfect for a nice day. We got two beers out of their great summer selection and we enjoyed them a lot. For food we got the smash burger. It was a very good burger and these are the way smash burgers should be. I was surprised with how good it was. The party had crispy edges and was super flavorful and the bun was soft and buttery. With it we had fried with a side of their Mac sauce. The fried are basic but if you get the Mac sauce to dip them in you'll be happy you did! We also got the Jalisco steamers. Streamers in a beef broth with brisket and peppers. It was insanely good! The clams soaked up some of that flavor and tasted so good and you have to dip the bread in as well. We have never had steamers like this and we're not disappointed. Definitely come here in the summer while you can. You will love it. And the prices of the clams here are better than most places as well for how many you get. Would highly recommend this place and we will be back to try some of their other menu items soon! read more

See all

What a great atmosphere!! Nice outdoor covered seating looking over the bay. Food was amazing!! And Alyssa was Fantastic. So friendly and helpful. We had the sampler roll platter and a cup of the clam chowder soup. Best I've ever had. read more

Clam Bar - Lobster clam and crab roll sampler Lobster, clam and crab sampler platter - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

Had the clam roll clams were cooked to death. Not a good experience. Try somewhere else.

What a cool spot! The vibe is amazingly good. This place is clean as a whistle and really nicely done for an outdoor eating establishment. The girl at the counter greeted us with a smile and info about the specials. Food came out timely and was very good. My husband had the fish and chips and I had the fried clams. My husband said that there was a nice spice added to the breading for his fish. There is a delectable spice added to the Cole slaw too. I am in love with the Cole slaw. Nice crisp cabbage and carrots with just the right amount of sauce on it. Not sure what the added spice is but man it sets their coleslaw apparent from the crowd for sure. We parked on the street in front of the restaurant, but if we visit again we will park in their parking lot that is just beyond the restaurant as it can be a little tricky getting out into traffic from the parallel parking spots in front. We will stop in again if we are in Portland. read more

Massachusetts transplant to Arizona came to Maine on a mission to find a great clam roll. Sweet jeezus! Whole-belly clams on a perfect buttered and fried roll, homemade chips, and super yummy coleslaw with a bit of a kick! The patio and picnic tables are quintessential New England clam shack. This place is awesome! read more

See all

Friendly service with smiles. Great location, I remember the old hot dog stand that used to be there from long ago. We loved the smoked Salmon on the arugula salad, and the fish sandwiches where plentiful and delicious, we had to have them with cole slaw and fries. Duh. Beautiful spot that all are sure to enjoy just outside of the hustle of the Old Port with plenty of FREE parking. read more

I was really looking forward to eating here. The ambience is great, directly under the flight path for planes landing in Portland. I figured with a name like Clam Bar the fried clams would be awesome. Oh how wrong I was. Absolutely the worst fried clams I've had in my life. The steamers weren't much better. The clam juice that was served to rinse before eating tasted old. Won't be going back. read more

Chowder was not creamy but it was still very good! And good seasoning on the fries. Outdoor seating was very nice read more

Clam Bar - CLAM CHOWDER - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

Easy to park on street, greeted by a very friendly and attentive young lady -- Food was DELICIOUS!!! We had the fish sandwich, lobster roll, and clams in a pot of wine sauce. The best food we've had on this vacation to Maine. Also, loved the Bob Marley music playing in the courtyard. Excellent vibe. read more

Clam Bar - Fried fish sandwich, warm lobster roll, and pot of clams in delicious wine sauce. - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

Delicious!!!!!. Adorably set up with picnic tables and lights. Chicken sandwich was incredible, homemade chips are a must. Lobster roll and tuna tostadas were also loved. read more

Clam Bar - LOBSTER ROLL - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

Upscale seafood shack, 10/10 sunset vibes. Cocktails and food on point. Lobster roll on the menu is hot with butter but they didn't scoff at preparing it cold w/mayo to my liking. Fire pits out back, the terraced decks are cool and parking is easy. The staff was hard-working and eager to please. I look forward to coming back with friends. read more

Clam Bar - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

Have been wanting to try this place since they opened this summer and finally made it a couple days ago. They don't technically have inside seating yet but it seems like they are working on that. They did have a little trailer with space heaters and it was warm. They have lots of picnic tables and cute areas for the summer. This winter it also looked like they were selling trees. The service was great and everyone was super nice. Now for the food it was okay but not the best. I got the fried clams and for being a clam bar I thought they would be better. They had a good flavor. They also had a very small menu. I am excited to see what they do with this place and to come back in the summer! read more

See all

This was a surprisingly great place. Resident of Portland for years and seen this location have had several failed business so I never (re)considered going there. Had relatives in town so we figured what the hell, why not. Food was really good and the staff was super pleasant. The name is true to form = good seafood. Weather wasn't quite warm enough for us to take advantage of the funky layout of multiple structures and stuff, but it was definitely interesting. Will go again for sure. read more

Wow, along the side of the road, picnic tables with umbrellas. Standup bars too. What an amazing place. The owners there to explain the steam clams and brisket. Cold beers and other drinks to satisfy everyone who wants to have a drink with their order of excellent food. I drank the broth of clams and brisket, was oh so good. The setting along the road looking at the was good read more

Clam Bar - The steamed clams and brisket. It had jalapeños in it wow.cold beer on the side - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

We were in the area and decided to stop by even though it was raining - thankfully they let us sit inside a little shack to stay dry while we enjoyed our food. Clam basket was eh but the crap queso was SO good - would highly recommend. Pretty location overlooking the water and the guys working were very kind and had great recommendations! read more

Clam Bar - fried clams - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

See all

This wasn't on my radar coming into Portland, but we drove by as we killed time between airport pickups. It was decided we'd have lunch there. My group tried everything from the Jalisco steamers, the fish n chips, the lobster roll and the crab tacos. All were pretty solid. The steamers were a big hit. That broth is good enough to drink. Definitely sop it up with the remaining bread. The crab tacos were good but a little on the small side. We also got the hot buttered rum and bourbon apple cider. Yum. Top it off with some oysters on the half shell. There was a good crowd there for late lunch Thursday afternoon but no wait to get service or find a nice table. They have some "indoor" seating options if it gets too weathery. read more

Clam Bar - Jalisco steamers with salad - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

Very disappointed greasy taste as if they used old grease. Not a 4 star place. Not crispy to greasy sorry just not good.

Fantastic fish and chips (my new favorite in town): you'd better come hungry, because they serve up a *huge* portion at the Clam Bar. And the fries and slaw aren't run-of-the-mill: they're nice, crispy thinner-cut fries tossed with salt and a little parsley, and the slaw has a bit of zip to it (maybe Tabasco or something?). So good! And even if you're right on Commercial Street with cars whizzing by, they've managed to create a cheerful, laid-back little roadside oasis. Grab a table outside or in one of the covered deck areas, or a stool at the outside bar like I did, and munch away while enjoying the view and the breeze. When I arrived a little after 3pm it was already happy hour (they have daily drink and app specials), so I got a good deal on a Portland Pale Ale to help wash it all down. Practicalities: there are a few parking spots right at the curb, and a bigger lot next door too. I'm sure this place is absolutely packed on weekends and other peak times (I got lucky with a lull and had the place practically to myself), but I think locals and visitors already know that the Clam Bar is a must-do. Check it out! read more

See all

4.2 seems pretty good for this place. Its a little on the pricy side for what you get, but it was good. I got the clam basket, They were fine but I would probably get something else next time. My Husband got the fish and chips and really liked them. The service was excellent and everybody was friendly and helpful. A nice outdoor patio that overlooks the bay, although next to commercial so a little busy and loud. Overall nice if you need a bite in Portland but dont want to deal with old port. read more

The Clam Bar came across my Instagram feed, so of course, I had to pop by on a quick trip to Freeport! We ordered the clams, slaw & fries for $27, which I felt was a good deal & a perfect amount to split. We sat under the covered deck, due to the rain, & it was very comfortable! Even dog friendly. I do wish it wasn't raining, so I could give another star, but we didn't get the full experience of the beer garden area & other shipping container that sells food. There was a full gravel parking lot, a full bar in the Clam Bar & a cool location with planes taking off over head. I would suggest! read more

Honestly this place should have six stars. I will settle for five as I cannot rate any higher. A clam chowder that is a broth! It was the best clam chowder we ever had. Better than those places in a somewhat foodie town called Boston! This place is legit. Definitely put this on your list of destinations to eat. The steamer clams had birria in them. Just a great sensical twist on local traditional dishes. read more

See all

First time here. Very nice casual atmosphere. You order at the counter and pick up when your order is ready. I had the clam basket. The clams were too chewy for my taste. read more

Great little spot... staff was great... had some great tunes playing on the radio... I got the clams and a Maine Root ginger brew... and my wife got a chowder... super tasty full belly clams... nice spice, tasty fries and my wife enjoyed her chowder... 4.8 stars ... just wish there was a few more clams in the order... overall Great! read more

Clam Bar - Full belly clams and a chowder with a Maine Root ginger brew - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

Clam bar rocks, I had the fish and chips and it was crispy and delicious -- beer was appropriately priced and cold!

We stopped by knowing they got an award 2023. Parking lot is free so that was a good point but the location was too hot for lunch Service is mostly self service for carrying and cleaning. Stuff were great but most disappointing was the steamer. Every bites of it had sand in it and that was very uncomfortable to eat broth was great though! But I don't like to come back for the sandy steamer. It gave me trauma ‍ read more

Clam Bar - CLAM FRITTERS - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

See all

Go here, go here, go here!! Run, don't walk. The food is fantastic and the cocktails are great. The staff is all so friendly, and the place has a great ambiance. Something to note: they don't have high chairs. The tables are wooden picnic tables, so bring something for your little to sit in. read more

So freaking good. Happy to hear that they're braving the brutal Maine "spring" and are open for 2025 season. Going over for some fried clams now! read more

The best lobster roll I've had in Portland, Maine. The fried haddock fish sandwich was also delicious, as was the steamed clams which were in a wonderfully seasoned wine sauce. Totally flavorful, perfectly seasoned. Loved the Bob Marley music playing in the courtyard. read more

Clam Bar - Clams in wine sauce, fried haddock fish sandwich & lobster roll - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

The view by the water is beautiful and relaxing, but next to a busy street. The food is good. We are so excited to try this place and did not disappoint us. The lobster rolls and clams were so good but not hot. read more

See all

Just stopped for lunch and it was a pleasant surprise We had mussels and fries and a clam dish. Both were as good as we've had in any white tablecloth restaurant. Owners and help were very amiable and seemed genuinely concerned that we were enjoying ourselves. They have a great selection of food and a Bar. Nice set up with outdoor tables, shelter from the rain, a beer garden. There is also a food truck with coffee, breakfast, smoothies etc. but we didn't check it out that closely. Next time for sure. Will definitely be back to try some other offerings. read more

I live nearby. I'd write another bad review but they keep taking it down. My clams were so badly over fried that I couldn't eat them. Unfortunately I had left before trying them. read more

The tables and sitting area was nice and breezy, it on a busy street but it's not really noticeable. The service was a bit slow and when I got my food the fried Clam basket was Luke warm and so was the lobster roll. The oyster were on ice so they came out ok. While everting tasted good shortly after I was nauseous and vomited. This was all I ate that day. read more

Clam Bar - outdoor seating area with tables and umbrellas - Seafood Near Me - Portland, Maine

The food and service were amazing! We will definitely be back! The staff behind the bar was very entertaining.