If you’ve got a craving for crispy, golden seafood, the Friendly’s Crispy Fried Clam Basket is a coastal classic that delivers BIG on crunch, flavor, and nostalgia. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of New England-style fried clams or just in the mood for something deliciously different, this basket is sure to hit the spot.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from price and nutrition to allergens, ingredients, and even competitor comparisons. You’ll also find an extensive FAQ with answers to all the common questions people ask before ordering this deep-fried delight.
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of this seafood favorite and find out if it’s the next must-try on your Friendly’s menu checklist.
What Is Friendly’s Crispy Fried Clam Basket?
The Friendly’s Crispy Fried Clam Basket is a nostalgic nod to classic New England seafood shacks. It features a generous portion of lightly breaded, deep-fried clam strips, served with crispy golden fries and a side of coleslaw. It’s finished with a side of tartar sauce to complete the seaside experience.
Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, this dish brings the boardwalk to your table with every bite.
Price of Friendly’s Fried Clam Basket
Here’s how much you’ll pay for this crispy seafood indulgence:
Item
Price
Calories
Friendly’s Crispy Fried Clam Basket
$16.19
1330 Cal
At $16.19, this is one of Friendly’s higher-priced items, but it comes with a hearty portion of seafood and sides—perfect for a full meal.
Friendly’s Fried Clam Basket Nutrition Facts
Wondering what’s inside this basket beyond the crunch? Here’s a full nutritional breakdown:
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
1330 Cal
Total Fat
76g
Saturated Fat
11g
Trans Fat
0g
Cholesterol
85mg
Sodium
1940mg
Total Carbs
122g
Dietary Fiber
7g
Sugars
6g
Protein
28g
Calcium
6% DV
Iron
20% DV
Key Takeaways:
High Calorie Alert: At 1330 calories, it’s a full, filling meal.
Rich in Carbs & Fat: Be prepared—this is an indulgent comfort food.
Great Iron Source: Thanks to the clams, you get a solid 20% DV of iron.
Ingredients in Friendly’s Clam Basket
The exact recipe is proprietary, but these are common ingredients typically found in a dish like Friendly’s Fried Clam Basket:
Clam strips
All-purpose flour
Cornmeal
Breadcrumbs
Egg wash
Buttermilk
Seasoned salt
Garlic powder
Black pepper
Tartar sauce
Coleslaw mix
Mayonnaise (in slaw)
Fried potato fries
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Allergen Information
If you have food sensitivities, here’s what you need to watch out for:
Allergen
Present
Shellfish
Yes
Eggs
Yes
Wheat
Yes
Gluten
Yes
Dairy
Yes
Soy
Yes
Peanuts
No
Tree Nuts
No
This dish contains multiple common allergens, especially shellfish, dairy, wheat, and soy. Always confirm with the restaurant if you have severe allergies.
Comparison With Other Restaurant Seafood Baskets
How does Friendly’s version stack up to competitors?
Restaurant
Calories
Price
Main Protein
Key Sides
Friendly’s
1330 Cal
$16.19
Fried clam strips
Fries & coleslaw
Red Lobster
1250 Cal
$18.99
Fried shrimp
Fries & slaw
Captain D’s
1130 Cal
$12.49
Fried fish
Hushpuppies & fries
Long John Silver’s
1180 Cal
$11.99
Mixed seafood
Fries & hushpuppies
Applebee’s
1300 Cal
$16.99
Shrimp
Fries
Verdict:
Best for Clam Lovers: Friendly’s is one of the few casual dining chains offering a full clam strip basket.
Biggest Portion: Great if you’re hungry or want to share.
Competitive Pricing: Right in the mid-range compared to others.
Top 5 Recommended Friendly’s Menu Items
If you love the Clam Basket, here are five more Friendly’s items worth checking out:
Friendly’s Ultimate Cheeseburger – A juicy, beefy fan favorite.
Friendly’s Happy Ending Sundae – Their classic mini sundae for dessert lovers.
Friendly’s Mac & Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and totally comforting.
Friendly’s Onion Rings – Golden, crispy rings with a hint of sweetness.
Friendly’s Fried Pickle Chips – Zesty and crunchy, a must-have appetizer.
FAQs: Friendly’s Fried Clam Basket
1. How many calories are in Friendly’s Fried Clam Basket?
1330 calories per basket, including fries and coleslaw.
2. What is the price of the Clam Basket?
It costs $16.19.
3. Does it contain real clams?
Yes, fried clam strips are the main feature.
4. Is it spicy?
No, the flavor is savory and mild.
5. What sauce is served with it?
Tartar sauce is typically served on the side.
6. Are the clams breaded or battered?
They are lightly breaded for a crispy texture.
7. Can I get it without fries or coleslaw?
Ask your server—some locations may allow substitutions.
8. Is it available all year round?
Yes, it’s a permanent menu item in most locations.
9. Can it be ordered for delivery?
Absolutely! Order via Grubhub, DoorDash, or Uber Eats.
10. Is this meal gluten-free?
No, it contains wheat and gluten.
11. Does it include shellfish allergens?
Yes, contains shellfish (clams).
12. What are the portion sizes like?
Very generous—can easily be shared.
13. Is it suitable for kids?
Not ideal for small kids due to the shellfish and calories.
14. Does Friendly’s use fresh or frozen clams?
Typically, pre-breaded frozen clam strips are used for consistency.
15. What drink pairs well with it?
Try a Friendly’s Mango Passion Lemonade for a sweet contrast.
Conclusion
If you’re in the mood for classic fried seafood, Friendly’s Crispy Fried Clam Basket is one of the best fast-casual options out there. With a flavorful coating, generous sides, and the perfect seaside-inspired dipping sauce, it’s more than just a meal—it’s a moment.
At $16.19, it’s worth every bite for seafood lovers or anyone craving fried comfort food with a twist. Don’t forget to finish off your meal with a Happy Ending Sundae!
