Frye House — Restaurant in Farmingdale

We spent a beautiful day at Pemaquid Beach and decided we wanted fried clams on the way home. We stopped at a place in Wiscassett on route one that looked decent —only to find that The jumbo clam platter had 8 ounces of clams advertised as market price for $57 (the basket was $37). Needless to say, we left without ordering. We’re happy to pay for a good meal, but not get ripped off. $57 for 8 ounces of clams is not market price in any market (July 30th, 2025). This was a carryout location with picnic table seating, and self serve booths.

We decided to search places that offered fried clams within striking distance on our way home. The Frye House in Farmingdale popped up in the top three so we gave it a chance. We landed there 30 minutes before they closed on a Wednesday evening and ordered two clam platters, a pint of clams and a BLT. The total was $83. Which sounds like a lot but when you consider the order, it was very reasonable.

They were kind and welcoming when we walked in the door, and the platters were overflowing with the biggest whole belly clams we’d EVER had. Maybe they’re just fried clams, but our experience was great and the food was delicious! We will definitely seek them out again!

We popped up the road and sat by the river in Hollowell to enjoy our meal...

Frye House

GOOD: Milk Shake, fry quality BAD: flavor - I didn't want to keep eating

I really wanted to love Frye House with its big local appeal. Unfortunately, it fell flat on the biggest part, flavor.

The peanut butter milkshake was very good. The price and thickness was great. I'd give the place another try just for the milkshakes.

I ordered a clam roll with onion rings. The fry batter looked good and was crispy, but it was tasteless. There didn't seem to be any salt or spice in the batter. I nailed it with salt and pepper, it really didn't help. The batter was also grainy at times reminding me of sand.

I would try again, but likely do a burger or fried chicken. The only part of dinner that popped was the tartar sauce. Do try...

The Frye House is fantastic! Hands down, they have the best haddock chowdah since I was a kid! It reminded me of my grandfather's recipe.

The fried whole belly clam dinner with onion rings was also on point! The clams were tender with creamy centers and tasted like the sea. Nothing was overcooked or greasy. The batter was amazing on the clams and rings -- golden and flaky.

One surprising meal was the fried veggies. A loaded basket of perfectly cooked mushrooms, broccoli, onion rings, and, to my surprise, bell pepper rings! How innovative and delicious!

If you are looking for a place with delectable food, let it be grilled or fried, this is the place. The shakes look amazing, as well. I wish I had enough room to...