The Clam Shack is a long-time favorite stop in Kennebunk, Maine. We first went there as part of a quest for lobster rolls. It’s famous for those as well as people watching and fried seafood. But with a name like The Clam Shack they have to have great chowder, right?
One size – $9.95
Clams
There are plenty of fresh clams in the The Clams Shack’s chowder, but maybe not enough clam juice in the broth.
Cream and Consistency
Maximum cream! In fact maybe too much cream flavor and not enough clam. The thickness is perfect though.
Potatoes
Potatoes were a little off, some bites they seemed over-cooked and other bites they seemed under-cooked.
Garnish
Nothing exciting here, just the basic Westminster Oyster Crackers.
Everything Else
Simplicity here, just clams, potatoes, cream, black pepper.
Not Chowder
The Clam Shack has the best lobster roll period. It is served on a bun and available with mayo, butter, or, and this is the correct answer, both!
The Verdict
After my first bite of chowder at The Clam Shack, I thought this was going to be my first four star chowder, and it is very good. Then I had a couple of bites of below average potato, and as I considered it more it was actually too creamy and not clammy enough. All in all, it’s a great chowder, but can’t compete with their lobster roll.
The Clam Shack
2 Western Avenue
Kennebunk, ME
Concord Culinary Lyceum 
Ah, the quest for a perfect clam chowder is often elusive!