If you are from outside of New England, you may not be familiar with one of Rhode Island’s most iconic dishes: the stuffed quahog. Known locally as a stuffie, this delectable mixture of clams, breadcrumbs, onion, celery, cherry peppers, butter, and spices is baked in a clam shell, topped with lemon juice and/or tabasco, and consumed as an appetizer or anytime treat. They are such a Rhode Island treasure that there are multiple festivals across the state celebrating this very dish. Here’s your guide to find the very best stuffies in Rhode Island.
1. Anthony's Seafood
Located in Middletown, just a quick jaunt from Newport’s beautiful beaches, Anthony’s seafood is a fish market serving up some serious stuffies. The atmosphere might not be anything to write home about, but these lightly-breaded delights are loaded with clams, veggies, and chourico, a mildly spicy Portuguese sausage. Grab a few and head to the beach! 963 Aquidneck Ave., Middletown, RI 02840
2. The Commons Lunch
This quaint eatery located in Little Compton is a bit out of the way, but well worth the drive. Their stuffies are packed with all the usual fixings, plus two different types of sausage to satisfy those meat lovers. Start with a stuffie, finish with the fish and chips shown above! 48 Commons, Little Compton, RI 02837
3. Amaral's Fish and Chips
The town of Warren holds a large Quahog festival each year, so it’s safe to say that residents there are pretty picky about their stuffies. Amaral’s Fish and Chips has been a favorite with locals for years. In addition to their oven-crisped stuffies, this restaurant offers traditional clam shack-style fare and homemade Portuguese sweet bread. Their clam cakes and chowder (shown above) is the perfect companion for a stuffie! 4 Redmond St., Warren, RI 02885
4. Aunt Carrie's
Any restaurant that is still going strong after 97 years must be doing something right! Aunt Carrie’s has been a local favorite since its opening in 1920, serving up a variety of options to be eaten there or taken away for a beachside picnic. Their stuffies are perfectly spiced with paprika (and maybe a hint of cayenne pepper?) and will not disappoint. 1240 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, RI 02882
5. Iggy's Doughboys and Chowder House
If you’re looking for a little ambience in addition to some great eats, you can’t go wrong with Iggy’s, a Rhode Island favorite. With two waterfront locations in Warwick and Narragansett (the photo shows the view from the Warwick location), you can enjoy your stuffie with a view. 889 Oakland Beach Ave., Warwick, RI 02889 and 1151 Point Judith Rd., Narragansett, RI 02882
6. The Red Bridge Tavern
Located in East Providence, The Red Bridge Tavern’s stuffie is a delightfully daring mix of the usual ingredients, plus shrimp, crab, sausage, and fresh herbs. Get an order of steamed littlenecks (see above) to go with your stuffie! 22 Waterman Ave., East Providence, RI 02914
7. Champlin's Seafood
The folks at Champlin’s Seafood in Narragansett know one of life’s most important lessons: bacon makes everything better. Their Casino Stuffie takes it to the next level with crispy bacon and green bell peppers. While you're there, try the lobster...it's fresh off the boat! 256 Great Island Rd., Narragansett, RI 02882
8. Crossroads Pub
Another Warren favorite, Crossroads Pub offers oversized stuffies that will quench your desire for clams, tangy peppers, and buttery breadcrumb perfection. Enjoy one with a cold beer and a bowl of their clam chowder for a truly satisfying meal. If you are around for St. Patrick's Day, you need to try the corned beef and cabbage dinner shown above! 133 Market St., Warren, RI 02885
9. Quito's
Overlooking the beautiful Bristol waterfront, Quito’s is a casual seafood restaurant serving up local, seasonal dishes. While their stuffies are not always available year round, they are loaded with clams, flavor, and baked to a perfect golden brown. 411 Thames St., Bristol, RI 02809
10. The Lobster Bar
You can’t beat the sunset and Newport Harbor views from the porch at The Lobster Bar. They offer a wide array of seafood options, including a classic Rhode Island stuffie filled with clams and spicy chourico. 31 Bowens Wharf, Newport, RI 02840
These are some of our favorite places to enjoy one of Rhode Island’s most iconic treats. Where have you eaten the best stuffie of your life? Let us know!
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