Oysters are the unabashed kings of the bivalves, at least in New York, and have ruled seafood bars and fancy happy hours for as long as we can remember. One restaurant is looking to change that by finally putting into the spotlight the humble clam and showing the world just how versatile and tasty they can be.
Opened earlier this year, The Clam has firmly established itself in the upscale seafood niche of the West Village, bringing a nice change of menu in the area with its clam-focused offerings. You can get the shellfish any way you’d like: raw, whipped into an addictive dip, topping a pizza, fried and stuffed into a sandwich, swimming in a chowder, etc.
The way I prefer it though is in their signature dish of Spaghetti & Clams, one of the finest seafood pasta I’ve ever had and reason alone to visit the restaurant. The thick, spicy gravy has a subtle smokiness which paired with the homemade pasta, generous amount of clams and arugula salad sitting on top makes for one pretty outstanding dish. Everything else I ate was great and expertly prepared, the service was excellent, and the space delightfully sunny and inviting. Word is already out on The Clam’s awesomeness so hurry up. One thing’s for sure the oysters should check their back as their less glamorous cousins are getting ready to take over their dues…
Oysters Rockefeller: Green onion, Absinthe soaked cracker crumbs
Fried belly clams and lobster sandwich: Griddled bun, Old Bay fries
Spaghetti & Clams: Spicy gravy, salad on top
The Clam
420 Hudson St.
New York, NY 10014
Tel: (212) 242-7420
Map
