We haven’t had the best of luck with Maine chowder, but Billy’s Chowder House makes several “best of” lists. We took a ride up to Maine just to get away for the day and I thought since we were nearby we should give it a try. Can Billy’s redeem Maine’s reputation?
cup $8.99 bowl $11.99
Clams
This chowder has good clam flavor. That’s the best part about it, but the clams themselves have a strange look to them and a not quite right texture.
Cream and Consistency
This is a broth chowder, it needs something to thicken it up and no it isn’t particularly creamy either.
Potatoes
The potatoes are under-seasoned and undercooked.
Garnish
Never have I appreciated the Westminster Bakers Co. oyster crackers as much as I did with this chowder. Usually they are a throw away, but they did a lot to improve the enjoyment of this chowder.
Everything Else
Nothing else. There is absolutely nothing else in this chowder. Maybe not even salt and pepper.
Not Chowder
Billy’s might not be the place to get chowder, but their fish sandwich with fries is a winner and so is their rum punch available by the glass or by the bucket.
The Verdict
So far Maine just isn’t the place for chowder. Gilbert’s in Portland and now Billy’s in Wells are two of the worst we have had. Maybe the people in Maine just like their chowder different than we do, but it’s always very thin. That was ok at Bob’s and The Clam Shack, but here with bland potatoes, oddly textured clams, and butter or oil floating on top it doesn’t work. We will pass on this chowder, but we will be back to Billy’s.
Billy’s Chowder House
216 Mile Road
Wells, ME
Concord Culinary Lyceum 
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