Welcome to another deep dive into the vibrant culinary and lifestyle scene of Vero Beach and the magnificent Treasure Coast! For local residents and visitors alike, the coastal lifestyle is heavily defined by the fresh, flavorful seafood sourced right from our surrounding waters. Whether you prefer them served on the half shell, baked, steamed in butter, or fried, versatile bivalves are a staple of our regional dining experience.
Historically, the Indian River Lagoon provided the largest share of Florida’s clam harvest, with the local town of Sebastian playing a pivotal role in clam harvesting and farming. Today, that rich legacy continues to influence menus across the region.
If you are exploring the Treasure Coast real estate market or just looking for your next unforgettable weekend meal, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the top restaurants offering the best clams in town, spanning from our own Indian River County down to Martin County.
Local Favorites in Indian River County
For those living in or visiting Vero Beach and Sebastian, you do not have to travel far to find incredibly fresh clam dishes paired with stunning waterfront atmospheres.
- Green Marlin Restaurant & Raw Bar (Vero Beach): Opened in 2017 by local restaurateur Lou Kolbauer, who also owns Chive Restaurant, this Vero Beach staple provides a relaxed, nautical-themed atmosphere. Diners can enjoy indoor seating or relax outdoors at the tiki hut while savoring dishes like sautéed clams in lemon, butter, and garlic, or linguini tossed in a house-made clam sauce.
- Blackfins Riverfront Grill at Capt Hirams Resort (Sebastian): Steeped in local history, this resort complex was purchased by Tom Collins in 1986 and named after his great-uncle, a World War II soldier who fell at Normandy Beach. Still owned by the Collins family, this Bahamian-style open-air restaurant offers immaculate waterfront views. Their menu shines with steamed Sebastian middleneck clams and perfectly baked clams casino.
Standout Eateries in St. Lucie County
Just a short drive south, St. Lucie County offers a mix of historic waterfront spots, iconic dives, and elegant dining experiences.
- Chucks Seafood Restaurant (Fort Pierce): Sitting right on the Fort Pierce Inlet, this casual eatery has been a local fixture since Chuck and Elodie Tabor opened it in 1961. Purchased by Peter Angelos in 1984, the restaurant is famous for its Rock n’ Roll Room adorned with music memorabilia. Enjoy panoramic views while indulging in steamed clams or classic fried clam strips.
- Pineapple Joe’s Grill & Raw Bar (Lakewood Park): A charming, rustic dive originally opened by the late Joe Bob Clemenzi and his wife Mabel. Known for its pecky cypress wood-paneled walls and live entertainment, this beloved spot serves up hearty fried clam strips and linguini with clam sauce.
- Meating Street Steak & Seafood (Port St. Lucie): For a more elevated, polished modern atmosphere, brothers Pasquale and Carmine Lamarra offer USDA Prime cuts and modernized shareable dishes on Lake Tradition. Highlights include their clams casino flatbread and a stunning bouillabaisse featuring fresh catch, Maine lobster, and clams.
Must-Visit Spots in Martin County
Continuing the journey south, Martin County showcases a diverse array of culinary talents, from classic New England fish markets to authentic Italian kitchens.
- New England Fish Market & Restaurant (Jensen Beach): Lovingly known as the “House that Fish Built,” John Mellaci opened his first market in 1981. Today, this relaxed, nautical-themed restaurant imports dry New Bedford sea scallops and Maine lobsters, alongside a massive menu featuring whole belly clams, jumbo stuffed clams casino, and a traditional New England clambake.
- Basin Seafood Market & Kitchen (Port Salerno): Operating since the 1980s near the Manatee Pocket, this authentic Old-Florida eatery is currently co-owned by Chris Oliveira. Sourcing fresh seafood directly from the Port Salerno fleet, they offer incredible steamed Cedar Key clams and stuffed quahogs.
- Riverwalk Cafe & Oyster Bar (Stuart): Nestled in historic downtown Stuart near the St. Lucie River, Chef-owner Steve Feder opened this cozy bistro in 2002. With exposed brick walls and Tiffany-style chandeliers, it is the perfect place to pair clams casino with a selection from their extensive 120-bottle wine list.
- Ristorante Claretta (Palm City): Opened in 1997 by Clara Russell and her children, this fine-dining establishment brings the authentic flavors of Italy’s Piedmont region to Florida. The family even closes the restaurant briefly each summer to return to Italy for culinary inspiration. Their seafood mastery shines in dishes like sauté di vongole with Manila clams and white wine.
- Amato’s Ristorante & Pizzeria (Hobe Sound): Relocated from Connecticut over 15 years ago, this family-operated gem brings New Haven-style pizza and time-honored Italian-American recipes to Hobe Sound. Do not miss their unique clams casino pizza or the Clams Calabrese sautéed with garlic, cannellini beans, and hot chili peppers.
Whether you are a long-time resident of Vero Beach or a prospective homebuyer exploring the vibrant lifestyle of the Treasure Coast, our local dining scene offers something truly special. Get out there and support these incredible local businesses, and experience the freshest seafood Florida has to offer!
