The Bancroft is a great restaurant but the chowder disappoints with lack of clams and potatoes, and overpowering onion/celery flavor. Despite good consistency and delicious oyster crackers, it isn't a chowder we would go back for. Stick with the burger or shrimp cocktail.
The top three dishes of January 3. Toasted Ravioli 2. Chicken Enchiladas 1. Cambodian Prohok Read on for the all the rest.
Bob's Clam Hut in Kittery has been attracting a crowd with its famous fried clams since 1956. Their clam chowder is exceptionally fresh with a good amount of clams. Only the thin texture of the chowder and the high quality of the rest of the menu keep this chowder from being a star.
The clam chowder at Gilbert's Chowder House in Portland falls short. It lacks the sweet clam flavor, has a grainy consistency, and too much bacon. However, the location is great, and other menu items like lobster grilled cheese and fish sandwich make it worth a visit.
Row 34's chowder has been featured on several best of Boston lists. While the creamy consistency and potatoes are impeccable, the chowder lacks sufficient clams and clam flavor. The garnish of house-made saltine is special, but the overpowering bacon detracts from the clam essence.
Concord Culinary Lyceum 