Catanese Classic Seafood
Why we love it: The Catanese brothers know just how much Clevelanders love clambakes, so they’re doing their part to ensure the tradition continues. Customers can custom order clambakes with wild North Atlantic clams or sustainable farm-raised clams from coastal Virginia’s Cherrystone Aqua-Farms. “We want our grandkids, and everyone’s grandkids, to enjoy clambakes forever,” says president Jim Catanese. 1600 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, 216-696-0080, classicseafood.com
Euclid Fish Co.
Why we love it: When Euclid Fish Co. started in 1944, customers got a dozen clams, chicken and a couple sides with their clambake. Four generations later, the Chef Comella Original ($18.95) is still a best-seller, but now there’s more on the menu, including steaks and lobster. “We’re constantly reinventing ourselves,” says John C. Young, Comella’s grandson and current president. 7839 Enterprise Drive, Mentor, 440-951-6448, euclidfish.com
Lobster Bros. Seafood
Why we love it: This West Side spot caters to those whose favorite part of a clambake is eating, rather than cooking. The Cambro Complete ($23.99 per person) comes with fully prepared and cooked food: a half seasoned chicken, a dozen middle neck clams, sweet corn and sweet potatoes. “Some people like it simplified,” says owner Joe Feran. “All you have to do is take a Cambro and put it on the table.” 26055 Detroit Road, Westlake, 440-835-0013, lobsterbrothers.com
Seven Seas Seafoods
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a no-frills clambake, head to this West Park spot where the traditional flavor comes from butter and celery. “Even though some fancier places have popped up, we’ve kept it the same,” says vice president Andy Dudik. Each bake ($19 per person) comes with a dozen top neck clams, half of a 3-pound chicken, an ear of corn, a sweet potato and a dinner roll. 15725 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-941-1359, facebook.com/7seasseafood
A Taste of Excellence Catering
Why we love it: It’s time to step up your clambake game. This local catering company not only provides linens and utensils, but a top-notch clambake ($23.50 per person). Dive into a dozen steamed middle neck clams, New England clam chowder, a half herb-marinated or barbecued chicken, corn on the cob, sweet potatoes or candied yams. “If you’re in the catering business, you have to know how to do a clambake,” says owner Bill Rini. 16888 Pearl Road, Strongsville, 440-845-0800, taste-food.com
