Rich, hearty, and packed with fresh seafood flavor, clam chowder is a staple for any seafood lover. Whether you prefer the creamy New England style or the tomato-based Manhattan variety, the best clam chowder is made with tender clams, perfectly seasoned broth, and just the right blend of ingredients. Long Island’s coastal waters provide some of the freshest seafood around, making it the perfect place to enjoy this comforting classic. If you’re craving a warm, delicious bowl, see which spot our readers have voted as the Best Clam Chowder on Long Island.
2025: Long Islanders Voted Chowder Bar Best Clam Chowder!
Chowder Bar
123 Maple Ave, Bay Shore
(631) 665-9859 – thechowderbar.com
The Chowder Bar, situated just a stone’s throw from the Great South Bay, has been a cherished seafood destination since 1946. In 1988, owners Lynda Nenninger and Patricia Robinson decided to keep the restaurant open all year except February, to provide continual fresh food, renowned soups and friendly service to the residents of Bay Shore and its surrounding communities. Their motto is “Once you’ve nibbled, we’ll have you hooked,” and judging by the loyal clientele, the motto has proven to be true! The Chowder Bar is conveniently situated near the Fire Island Ferry, and parking is free in the rear of the restaurant, making it a popular stop for both locals and visitors.
2024: Long Island Voted Chowder Bar Best Clam Chowder!
Chowder Bar
123 Maple Ave, Bay Shore
(631) 665-9859 – thechowderbar.com
At Chowder Bar, the clam chowder is a beloved classic that captures the essence of New England’s coastal cuisine. This creamy and comforting dish is made with the freshest ingredients, including tender clams, potatoes, onions, and savory broth, simmered to perfection. Each spoonful of Chowder Bar’s clam chowder is bursting with flavor, delighting diners with its rich and hearty taste. Served piping hot and garnished with crispy bacon or oyster crackers, this iconic dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its dedication to quality and authenticity, Chowder Bar ensures that every bowl of clam chowder is a satisfying and memorable culinary experience, transporting diners to the seaside with each spoonful.
2023: Long Islanders Voted Chowder Bar Best Clam Chowder!
Chowder Bar
123 Maple Ave, Bay Shore
(631) 665-9859
Overlooking the Great South Bay is a gold mine of fresh seafood and rich history. Chowder Bar, a stone’s throw away from the Fire Island Ferries, has been happily serving customers since 1975, when George Olsen turned the old clam and fish shop into a dining room. Current owners Lynda Nenniger and Patricia Robinson bought the spot in 1988 and have been making a name for themselves ever since. Twenty-five years later, they still take the cake for their clam chowder served in variations of Manhattan, Long Island, and New England styles; you can even mix ‘em up! Described as fresh, rich, and “unforgettable, their motto “Once you’ve nibbled, we’ll have you hooked!” stands true.
2022: Long Islanders Voted Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams Best Clam Chowder!
Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams
79 N Long Beach Rd, Rockville Centre
(516) 678-3878 – bigelows-rvc.com
Whether you prefer the red, tomato-based Manhattan clam chowder or New England’s signature creamier alternative, chowder lovers often flock to Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams to have the best of both worlds. Located in Rockville Centre, Bigelow’s has been a staple of Long Island’s dining scene since 1939. What makes their chowder stand out? Patrons point to the freshness of the seafood ingredients, the texture of the soup, and how filling it is. In addition to their chowders, Bigelow’s is also famous for its Ipswich Clams and hand-cut fries. The restaurant is often bustling with seafood connoisseurs year-round and in the summer. Diners take advantage of the heated patio, which allows for a prime outdoor eating experience while chowing down on their chowder.
2021: Long Islanders Voted Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams Best Clam Chowder!
Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams
79 N Long Beach Rd, Rockville Centre
(516) 678-3878 – bigelows-rvc.com
It’s a food battle that dates back to about 1939: Manhattan clam chowder vs. New England clam chowder. Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams has been around since the start of that food war between the red, tomato-based Manhattan variety and the white, cream-based New England type. Not much has changed at the restaurant since it opened its doors. Luckily, that means customers who prefer one chowder variety over the other can merely opt for whichever one suits their fancy because Bigelow’s carries both kinds – and both of them are delicious. The only decision you have to make aside from Manhattan or New England is whether you want it in a cup, a bowl or a quart!
