If you were born and raised in the PNW, you probably consider yourself a clam chowder connoisseur (if you’re a fan of seafood, that is). After all, between Pike Place Chowder, Ivar’s, and Ray’s Boathouse and Cafe, we’ve got a lot of famous chowder spots. Here’s one that has the best clam chowder in Washington state.

But believe it or not, there’s a little seafood shack on the coast that just might top them all. The food at Bennett’s Fish Shack is all delicious, but the clam chowder is in a league of its own.

There are two Bennett's Fish Shack locations, one in Westport (pictured here) and one in Ocean Shores.
Jo Owens Murray / Google
The Westport location features a great selection of local beer and wine, while the Ocean Shores location has a full bar.
There are two things both locations have: a charming atmosphere and the freshest seafood possible.
RovingFox / Google
This no-frills, laid-back spot is completely family-friendly.
Bennett's Fish Shack is the winner of a whopping 18 Twin Harbor Awards.
Bennett's Fish Shack / Facebook
It's also been up for awards for Best Fish & Chips and Best Seafood Restaurant, among others.

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The clam chowder here is definitely award-winning, and for good reason.
Bennett's Fish Shack / Facebook
This place serves a lot of crowd-pleasers, but there's just something about a piping hot cup of freshly made clam chowder by the beach.
Order your chowder in Small, Large, or a Sourdough Bread Bowl.
Bennett's Fish Shack / Facebook
The sourdough enhances the flavor of the chowder, and it's definitely the most decadent option. However, if you choose it, prepare to be full for the rest of the day.
This hole-in-the-wall restaurant has been known to convert people who didn't care for seafood.
Bennett's Fish Shack / Facebook
From fresh oysters to fish tacos, they offer a little bit of everything.
Both Bennett's Fish Shack locations are open daily from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. (9 p.m. on weekends).
Daryll P / Google
Even if you're not a clam chowder fan, they'll have something for any craving — including a list of tasty burgers and sandwiches.

See how Bennett’s makes its delicious seafood:

Have you ever eaten at Bennett’s Fish Shack, the home of the best clam chowder in Washington state? Where is your favorite place in Washington to feast on clam chowder? Let us know in the comments. If you’re looking for more like this, check out the 13 best seafood restaurants in Washington.

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The Culinary Diversity of Washington

William Suphan | February 15, 2023

What are the most iconic foods in Washington?

The most iconic foods in Washington include:

  • Rainier Cherries. These cherries are not only held in high regard all over the state but the whole country for their tart sweetness.
  • Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon. In Washington, salmon is placed on a cedar plank and grilled with a honey-balsamic glaze.
  • Walla Walla Sweet Onions. Locals love to put these on hamburgers and other sandwiches and even make potato chips flavored with them.
  • Duck’s Deluxe Burgers. These old-fashioned burgers are a Washington staple that goes wonderfully with the shoestring fries.

Learn more about the most iconic foods in Washington. 

What are the best bucket list dishes in Washington?

The best bucket list dishes in Washington include:

  • The Wenatchee Pizza at Saddle Rock Pub & Brewery. This is a pizza topped with fresh local apples and bacon.
  • Green Eggs & Ham at Hi-Lo’s 15th Street Cafe. This is a dish made of eggs with pesto and ham with a side of toast.
  • The Paruana Sandwich at Cafe Rumba. This Peruvian sandwich is made with avocado, roasted tomato, yams, huacatay, aji amarillo, and spinach.
  • Freshly Baked Apple pancakes at Maple Counter Cafe. These are gigantic, delicious, sweet pancakes that cover the entire plate.

Find out more about the best bucket list dishes in Washington. 

What are some hidden restaurants in Washington?

Hidden restaurants in Washington include:

  • Berry Fields in Centralia. This little place makes sandwiches with fresh, homemade bread and offers scrumptious pies.
  • Secret Cove in Anacortes. This seaside restaurant makes amazing fish tacos, fish and chips, burgers, steaks, and much more.
  • El Fat Cat Grill in Kennwick. The Mexican food here is top-notch and includes a torta made with adobada, bacon, ham, onions, mozzarella, and other toppings.
  • Royal Grinders in Fremont. This is the place to go for delicious oven-roasted subs and a multitude of yummy gelato flavors.

Discover more about these and other hidden restaurants in Washington. 

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Featured Addresses
Bennett's Fish Shack, 105 W Chance a La Mer NW, Ocean Shores, WA 98569, USA
Bennett's Fish Shack, 2581 Westhaven Dr, Westport, WA 98595, USA