JT Farnham’s
About
Seafood, Sandwiches
Price Range : $11-30 ($$)
Location
Adress: 88 Eastern Ave, Essex, MA 01929
Phone: (978) 768-6643
Work Hours
Business info
- list_altTakes ReservationsNo
- directions_carDeliveryNo
- move_to_inboxTake-outYes
- credit_cardAccepts Credit CardsNo
- thumb_upGood ForLunch, Dinner
- local_parkingParkingStreet, Private Lot
- directions_bikeBike ParkingYes
- accessibilityGood for KidsYes
- groupGood for GroupsYes
- insert_emoticonAmbienceCasual
- volume_upNoise LevelAverage
- local_barAlcoholBeer & Wine Only
- transit_enterexitOutdoor SeatingYes
- wifiWi-FiNo
- tvHas TVYes
- fastfoodCatersNo
- turned_in_notGender Neutral RestroomsYes
Reviews
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Kenneth L.
Great place we chanced upon while we were driving through the area. We ordered the lobster roll and the fish and chips.
The lobster roll was great. Chunky, fresh, filling. Loved the bread, and really liked that they didn't drown the lobster in mayo. The fish and chips was pretty average. I liked the batter, it wasn't too heavy.
What I really enjoyed about the place was the view. It's not a fancy place, but the riverside view made up for it -
Cathy Z.
If you're looking for fish & chips, lobster rolls, and/or clam chowder on the North Shore, JT Farnham's is one of the places that will pop up. I don't even eat seafood, but I was happy to tag along for the classic New England summer vibes. This is clearly a family-owned spot.
The prices are pretty reasonable for seafood. $20 for a lobster roll (including fries) seems to be about the going rate these days. The fish and chips was $18 for a HUGE portion of fish right out of the fryer. This establishment is CASH ONLY; there's an ATM on the premises.
A lot of people mentioned that their food was lacking flavor, and I certainly had to put several shakes of salt on my french fries. You can also ask for lemon wedges and tartar sauce to dress up the fish. The clam chowder looked pretty thin, but maybe that was a stylistic choice. My veggie burger ($9) was tasty!
They serve beer and wine, but it's a tough choice: you can't bring the alcohol out of the patio, so you have to eat inside if you choose to imbibe.
The small parking lot gets packed in the summertime! You can try parking on the freeway outside but technically you could get ticketed.
I would probably try some other places in the area before coming back here, but JT Farnham's is a solid option for freshly fried seafood in a traditional setting. -
John T.
I love clam, I think Farnhams consistently has the biggest ones.$32 for a medium ouch
But it's a summer treat! -
Tiffany R.
Had a nice lunch. Lobster roll was wonderful and roll was super fresh. Had clam chowder with good flavor. Service was friendly too. Cash only place! Had an ATM but a hassles to have to get cash.
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Josep B.
The locals always told me that even if there are more "touristic places" that are considered better, Farnham's is the spot to go if you really want to enjoy good fried clams. So we decided to try it today.
The first thing I noticed is that they don't accept credit cards... I know this may be only me but... I don't understand why nowadays people don't take credit cards... They have an ATM (which I guess will charge you an unfair fee) but... still... After this, I have to say that the customer experience improved. They were super nice and the place was extremely clean. Ambiance was nice and authentic.
We didn't have to wait that long until we got our order. I have to say that the clams were excellent. Much better than any other place I tried in the area. The next thing that surprised me was... the onion rings... I know, you may be thinking that I am exaggerating... how can an onion ring surprise you? well... go there and try them... The scallops were also fresh and well cooked. The fish, shrimps and fries were average.