J.T. Farnham's Fried Clams and a Day at the Beach

Another year, another last-minute realization that the time when dogs are allowed at Crane Beach was coming to an end! Since we had such a great time the last two years, we schedule a trip and hoped that it wouldn't be TOO cold or windy. Somehow we lucked out with blue skies and temps in the 30's, which was practically a heat wave given the winter we've had!

Nick the dog whisperer

Arthur taking in the sites

This face cracks me up! This is the look of determination as Holly runs to the ball!  

Since we were already up north, we knew we had to get some fried clams. In the two years prior we went with the classic and ate at Woodman's, but this year we decided to switch things up and try a new spot. The weekend we went was also the start of J.T. Farnham's summer season. The debate among locals over who has the best fried clam - Woodman's or J.T. Farnhams - never ends. Having never been I could never weigh in properly, so obviously that needed to be fixed! J.T. Farnhams is just down the street (Route 133) from Woodman's and is situated right on the water. +1 for Farnham's for the better location.

Fried Clams

First off, one of our group has to eat a gluten free diet, and it turns out J.T. Farnham's can do most of their menu gluten free - separate breading, separate oil, the whole nine yards. For those who are gluten free, this is a great way to satisfy the fried food craving.

I really liked the flavor overall of our clams and thought their "boat" options were a great portion size. The breading wasn't too heavy, and I thought the onion rings on the side were flavorful.  However, I think when I make the comparisson I'm leaning towards Woodman's. It's hard to say with 100% certainty since I haven't had Woodman's clams in over a year. Luckily, we are heading to Essex next weekend and I can do a better comparison!