Spend a Moment at … Flo’s Clam Shack

Flo’s Clam Shack

4 Wave Avenue, Middletown, Rhode Island

In the Northeast, we’re pretty spoiled when it comes to clam shacks, but there is only one Flo’s. Featured on the Food Network and in The New York Times for its famously good beachside fare, Flo’s Clam Shack sure has a reputation to live up to – and it does.

After first opening in 1936, the Newport County staple has seen the likes of not one, not two, but five hurricanes roll through, all of which either severely damaged or razed its building completely; but that didn’t stop them. Flo’s has stood intact since 1991, but as a nod to its tumultuous past has an ironic sign posted next to their order window: “CLOSED HURRICANES.”

The blink-and-you-might-miss-it Middletown location is overflowing with both nautical decor and mouthwatering seafood options. Here you can order the gamut of New England favorites including their homemade “chowda” – choose from clear, creamy or red and top with oyster crackers, of course – along with clam cakes, clam strips, fried clams, calamari, quahogs, lobster rolls and more. Everything is cooked to order and always fresh, so you can be sure you’re eating the best. Head upstairs for their selective raw bar, or take a seat in one of four dining areas, each with their own themed decorations filling the ceiling and walls.

Flo’s also has a drive-in location in Portsmouth, open Friday through Sunday. Both locations are open seasonally, March through Columbus Day.

Our suggestion: Order the Fisherman’s Platter to get a taste of pretty much everything.

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What’s your favorite thing to order at a clam shack? Have you been to Flo’s? Let us know in the comments.