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Tourism PEI

Best place for deep fried fresh clams?

Answer by:

Hi Calvin,

You happen to hit one of my all-time favourite meals on PEI and have literally spent my life obsessed with these little ocean treats! I’ve been digging clams my whole life from when I was a kid with my parents and now with my own kids! A great Island tradition! You will find fried clams in a lot of restaurants you go to on PEI!

As far as the best places to go for fried clams, there are a couple of things you need to know:
-You will find two different fried clams
-know the difference before ordering 

“Fried Clams Strips” - will more than likely be breaded and fried bar clam pieces. 

“Whole Fried Clams” will be whole soft shell clams, ideally shucked raw and breaded.
(Some places do steam the clams til it opens and cool and bread)

Some of my favourite spots where you will find some great “whole fried clams” 

Clamdiggers in Cardigan, 
Frosty Treat Dairy Bar in Kensington 
Capt Scott Fish and Chips in Cavendish
Claddagh Oyster House in Charlottetown 
Water Prince Corner Shop in Charlottetown 
Row House in Charlottetown 

As you know clams are a lot like calamari or mussels, they are easily overcooked and chewy as a result - cooking clams takes a light touch and perfect timing in the fryer!

You have your hands full (or bellies will be) to find your favourite! Bring a shovel and a bucket you can dig your own to work it off!

Enjoy our Island!

Chef Jeff McCourt
 

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