The Best Places to Enjoy Clam Chowder in Los Angeles, California

Clam chowder is a classic and comforting dish that can elevate your dining experience in Los Angeles. With a rich tradition of seafood restaurants and vibrant food scenes, LA offers some stellar options for enjoying this beloved soup. From famous establishments to lesser-known spots, here's a comprehensive guide to finding the best clam chowder in Los Angeles and California.

Top Picks in Los Angeles

According to local food enthusiasts and taste testers, the best clam chowder in Los Angeles is often found at Chowder Barge with 22nd St. Landing coming in close second. Chosen for its rich, creamy yet not overly thick consistency and the perfect blend of flavors, this chowder is a must-try for fans of traditional clam chowder.

Chowder Barge 22nd St. Landing

Location: Chowder Barge, 22nd St. Landing, Los Angeles Description: Known for serving authentic New England-style clam chowder with a comforting creaminess and a balanced flavor profile Signature: Served with a side of bread for dipping, offering a satisfying and hearty meal

Other Notable Restaurants in Los Angeles

While the chowder at Chowder Barge and 22nd St. Landing are highly acclaimed, there are other eateries in Los Angeles that are also worth mentioning for their outstanding clam chowder. Former locations, such as Souplantation, once offered a popular clam chowder that reflected its New England roots but with a modern twist. Although the local branch is no longer open, you can still search for other locations online and compare their offerings.

San Luis Obispo Region

Beyond Los Angeles, the San Luis Obispo (SLO) region in California offers other great options for clam chowder lovers. The Splash Cafe at Pismo Beach is highly recommended for its renowned sourdough bread bowl chowder that's even more exquisite when paired with shrimp. This favorite has garnered multiple votes from local diners for its exceptional texture and flavor.

Splash Cafe at Pismo Beach

Location: Pismo Beach, California Description: Offers a traditional New England-style clam chowder that's enhanced with a unique sourdough bread bowl and a touch of shrimp for added flavor Signature: A combination of creamy and tangy, with a focus on marrying the right balance of flavors and textures

Headers and Notes

Note: In addition to these top picks, the Hometown Buffet in Bakersfield, California, is also praised for its clam chowder served on Fridays. This buffet is known for its high-quality ingredients and balanced flavors, making it a popular choice among loyal customers.

Finding the Best Clam Chowder

To find the best clam chowder in Los Angeles and beyond, consider the following tips:

Exploring Cultural Centers: Visit areas with strong ties to Eastern or New England traditions, as they may feature authentic clam chowder. Reading Reviews: Check online reviews, local food blogs, and social media platforms to gather insights from other diners. Sampling Options: Try different restaurants and establishments to find your personal favorite. Each place might offer a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Conclusion

Los Angeles and the surrounding areas offer a rich tapestry of clam chowder options, each with its own unique twist. Whether you're a long-time fan of New England-style chowder or are just discovering the classic dish, there's no shortage of delicious choices to enjoy in the Los Angeles region. From traditional restaurants to unique twists, the quest for the best clam chowder is an adventure worth embarking upon.