The Clam Broth House in Union City

Talk about a real institution “The Clam Broth House” is just that. Opened in 1899 the century old restaurant in Hoboken, New Jersey has been in the same location for so many years locals use it as a landmark when giving directions. The original Clam Broth House was originally opened to cater to the longshoreman who worked on the docks of the Hudson River. The decor is very regal with a grand chandelier, old fashioned bar and floors of deep mahogany. The restaurant denied entry to women until the 1970’s. Of course from it’s name the restaurant is known for it’s simple yet delicious seafood menu.

In 2003 the restaurant closed and residents mourned the loss of what many saw as a landmark. Luckily for us in 2004 The Clam Broth House was purchased by a local and reopened in the same spot it has been in for many years. Executive Chef Gerardo Leal has taken over the helm of the kitchen with some old favorites and some new ones as well. Enjoy their exclusive Wine or Whiskey cellar along with the majestic bar on the main floor. Parking is available on 2nd Street between River and Hudson in Parking Lot B.

We went for lunch and were treated like gold. The wait staff was very attentive to our every need. We all opted for their great Prix Fixe Menu for $12.00. The Prix Fixe Lunch Menu comes with First Course and a Second Course. I had the Soup Du Jour – which was a very tasteful Split Pea along with the Cubano Sandwich – Pulled pork, sliced ham, swiss cheese, pickles, hand cut fries. One of my dinning partners started with the Ceasar Salad – Chopped organic romaine, anchovy, pecorino, croutons along with the Sliced Steak Sandwich – Grilled skirt steak, sautéed mushrooms, sautéed onion, mozzarella, hand cut fries. My third friend had the Baby Green Salad – Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, lemon vinaigrette along with the Seared Tuna Sandwich – Homemade tartar sauce, hand cut fries.

The Blue Point Oysters are to die for at $3.00 each and The Colossal Crabmeat Cocktail for $16.00 should not be missed. Someone at the table next to us ordered the Tempura Onion Rings for $6.50 and believe me that looked yummy! There is a sea and land menu at dinnertime that I’d like to go back and try. You can view their website at www.originalclambrothhouse.com. The Clam Broth House is Zagat Rated.