Perhaps the most Instagram famous chowder in Boston is the one from The Boston Sail Loft. It’s always pictured overflowing the mug and running down the side. People gush over this chowder so we had to try it. Could it be as good as the internet says it is?
cup $9.50 bowl $9.95
Clams
The clams were the best part of this chowder. They were tender and plentiful.
Cream and Consistency
The chowder is flour thickened. It is one of the thickest chowders we have tried.
Potatoes
Some of the potatoes were cooked well but others were overcooked.
Garnish
Westminster Bakers Co. oyster crackers, the go-to for New England Clam Chowder. The chowder really needed them.
Everything Else
There are a lot of ingredients in this chowder, but the most obvious is dill. It dominates both in appearance and in taste.
Not Chowder
Try the potato skins. They brag that they are the best in Boston and they might be. They are nicely cooked with plenty of cheese and bacon. They are worth going back for.
The Verdict
What the dill is this chowder? There is a stupid amount of dill and it overwhelms it. Sure it looks pretty and makes for a great photo, but it just doesn’t taste great. On top of that, it is too thick. I didn’t ever think I would say that but there is just too much flour in this one. Also, why is a cup 45¢ less than a bowl? Are they basically the same size? I’d stay away from this chowder and go for the potato skins instead.
The Boston Sail Loft
80 Atlantic Avenue
Boston, MA
Concord Culinary Lyceum 
Now that’s a mug of chowder!