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The baked clams with a glass of Blue Moon at the Clam Tavern in Clifton Heights, Pa., on Wednesday, Aug., 28, 2024. .
The baked clams with a glass of Blue Moon at the Clam Tavern in Clifton Heights, Pa., on Wednesday, Aug., 28, 2024. .Read moreTyger Williams / Staff Photographer
The 76 Badge

The Original Clam Tavern

Delaware CountySeafood, American$$

A candy-stripe lighthouse on the roof guides you to this modest Delco corner bar with a clapboard facade and porthole window in the front door. The 1960s kitsch — complete with an aquarium running the length of the dining room — is only the cover for Tony “the Clam” Blanche’s sterling suburban seafood destination, with food that's as lively as the salt-of-the-earth staff serving it. Chuckle at the 1962 menu with its $1.50 price tag for a basket of steamed clams and 40-cent clam chowder, then feel some relief that by 2024 standards, the prices remain reasonable. Whatever you order, you really can't go wrong here, be it fried or broiled. Just get the clams.

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The Inquirer aims to represent the geographic, cultural, and culinary diversity of the region in its coverage. Inquirer staffers and contributors do not accept free or comped meals — all meals are paid for by the Inquirer. All dining recommendations are made solely by the Inquirer editorial staffers and contributors based on their reporting and expertise, without input from advertisers or outside interests.