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Sam's Chowder House Reviews List

Sam's Chowder House

Enjoy amazing sunsets by the cozy fire, a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, and fresh, award-winning New England style seafood in a casual, coastside setting. Watch the crashing surf, dine outside under a cozy heat lamp, or settle into an Adirondack chair near a toasty fire pit on Sam's dog-friendly patio, complete with wind protection and heat lamps. Featured on NBC’s The Today Show, and “Best of the Bay TV”, and named “Best Outdoor Dining in the Bay Area” by San Francisco Magazine, and “Best Seafood Restaurant in San Mateo County” by San Jose Magazine readers.
See more Sam's Chowder House details
333 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
(333 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 333 reviews
5 stars
(123)
4 stars
(144)
3 stars
(52)
2 stars
(10)
1 star
(4)
Food 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • scenic view(232)
  • great for outdoor dining(229)
  • great for lunch(157)
  • good for groups(109)
  • kid-friendly(103)
  • fit for foodies(95)
Sam's Chowder House Reviews List
Review 1 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First Time - Not the Last Time

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I liked that this place had an amazing view. I appreciated the fact that if my friend and I had not made a reservation, the wait did not seem very long. If you don't have a reservation - the wait time is approximately 40 minute but you can cut that in half with a visit to the bar and a walk down to the beach."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: scenic view, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 2 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

great restaurant, rushed service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Love the view, and the food is great too
Service is very rushed, mains appear less than a minute after appetizers cleared. Slow food anyone?"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 3 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Try it ,you'll like it.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 8/14/2012
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The restaurant has a casual feel. Some menu items were inventive. Watermelon salon w/ jalapenos. Bountiful Crab Louis. Large selection of raw items. Something for everyone even those who do not want fish.
Servers accomodating.
"
Dined on 8/14/2012
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 4 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lobster Rolls and ice cream

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 7/14/2012
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Sam's 2 signature dishes - lobster rolls and soft-serve ice with sea-salt and olive oil - are to die for. I always tell myself I'll order something else when I go, and I always regret it when I do. It's worth going just for these 2 dishes. And the rest of the seafood menu is great, too. You can't beat the view of the ocean, even though it's usually too cold & windy to walk on the beach. Make reservations way ahead of time - it's impossible to get a table as a walk-in."
Dined on 7/14/2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, kid-friendly
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Review 5 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Awesome Waterfront Fish House

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/06/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a full dinner from appetizers to dessert, and all of it was outstanding. Most of the portions were generous, and the seafood all tasted like it was caught the same day. For those who like ceviche, their lobster ceviche is a must! It is medium priced, with appetizers in the $6-15 range, and entrees running from $16-30. Waitstaff is attentive without hovering, and it offers spectacular views of Half Moon Bay. All-in-all a great value for the price, and we will definitely be back."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 6 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Outstanding service!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/06/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"From our initial greeting, all the way through dinner, and presenting the final bill . . . friendly and attentive."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, scenic view, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 7 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

great food in the best spot

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"If you love seafood, you want to go to Sam's Chowder House. You sit by the window and look out at Half Moon Bay. The restarant is roomy, and has outdoor seating. First you go for a walk along the beach, then you have your clam chowder and lobster roll, and key lime pie, then you go for another stroll along the beach. You're happy."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 8 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love It

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/27/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This restaurant never disappoints. Even in a hectic fast paced environment, the staff gives excellent service all the time. If you go to Half Moon Bay and don't eat at Sams you're out of your mind. :-) Get there."
Dined on 4/27/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, scenic view, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 9 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 9/08/2012
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very Nice place for dinner nothing fancy but very good food"
Dined on 9/08/2012
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Review 10 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Slipping a Little

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/22/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We've enjoyed eating at Sam's for years but recent visit was dissappointing.
Bloody Mary and Calamari Friti were good as ever. Service was really lacking. Sam's may be a victim of it's own success and is full of tourists who don't generate return visits - so who cares.
The Clam Chowder was good - the Lobster Roll (for which they are known) was overcooked, lacked flavor and didn't seem fresh....in fact was the worst Lobster Roll I've ever had and I eat them often at other restaurants. The cole slaw had no flavor either.
My Seared Scallops with Spring Peas was very good, but I had to ask for a fork after it was served and waited while scallops got cold.
Their staff needs some seroius training and food is inconsistent."
Dined on 4/22/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 11 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I have been to Sam's many

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I have been to Sam's many times and on this occasion I brought 4 friends. We were out for the day to Pescadero and Half Moon Bay. We all enjoyed it and thanked me for getting reservations and thinking of it. They and I will be back!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 12 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A must experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"An all time favorite for seafood. Great ocean views and comfortable dining ambiance. Highly recommend."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2008
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 13 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

iconic restaurant became worse.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"iconic restaurant became worse. Grilled lobster was over-cooked, Asparagus had black burned areas. never again. Never."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2009
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Review 14 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The lobster rolls were Great,

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The lobster rolls were Great, but the Paella, which was highly recommended by the server was not good at all, and it should NOT have been called Paella. I have had Paella and this was completely different...and not as good. Otherwise it was lovely."
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2004
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 15 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Skip the lobster roll and french fr

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We went to Sam's on a beautiful spring evening. The view over the bay was spectacular. Restaurant was crowded, with long waiting list. Outdoor cocktail bar had limited heaters and seating available.
Signature lobster roll disappointing. Lobster refrozen and lacked the expected sweet taste. Beer battered prawns were a hit. Skip the skinny french fries.
"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2007
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 16 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

It was so good that I am bringing

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"It was so good that I am bringing my guest from VT there for lunch today. It takes me almost an hour to get there but it will be worth it, I'm sure. I'm going to order my lobster roll again without the roll, but everything else. I'm not eating bread lately and I've lost some weight. I had leftovers and I had lobster at home for supper. What a day it was on the 24th!"
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2011
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Review 17 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

A Good "Great View" Restaurant

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
"Like many "great view" restaurants, the food is OK but not the main focus. Like many great view restaurants, it tends to be awfully busy, with slower (though cheerful and doable) service, and it can be very loud. Like many great view restaurants, the prices for the so-so food and so-so service is on the high side, as you are paying more for the view than the food.
Overall it was a nice experience. Ask for a window seat when making a reservation or come in early and wait for a non-reservable patio seat. If it is busy, think and ask ahead for your food and drink orders to navigate otherwise uncomfortable waits between orders.
"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2007
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 18 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Advised us immediately that

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Advised us immediately that they did not have one of the fresh oyster selections or the cod. Fine. Ordered beet salad to split, petrale sole and flank steak. A few minutes, waitress came back with menus - out of petrale sole and out of flank steak. OK. Ordered linguine with clams and baby back ribs. Salad came - it was delicious, tho' skimpy on goat cheese. Waitress returns- one order of petrale sole left. Said I'll take it. Returns again - nope, they're out of petrale. Back to clams/linguine. We eat the salad. Waitress returns - no more clams! Odd, multiple menu items containing clams.Order crab cakes which turn out to have "off" taste and I cannot eat. Husband loved the ribs. Drinks are good. Won't go back."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, scenic view
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Review 19 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We always get reservations

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We always get reservations before going to Sam's. There was almost a 2 hour wait when we arrived BUT we were taken right to our table thanks to Open Table and our reservations! Thanks!!! We even got a window seat and enjoyed the ocean views"
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2008
Special Features: special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 20 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

First Timer + 2

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"1st timers, party of 3 with Opentable.com reservations arrived early 30 minutes, checked in, waited full 30 minutes until reservation time then were seated into a slow mostly empty restaurant after what appeared to be many walk in seated immediately, lot's of employees goofing around check in desk. So wasn't off to a good start. Service and food were better than expected, Crab Louie very small compared to competition, but very well done fresh & cold. Clam Chowder good, but to thin to be called Great, all the flavors hit just right though more brothy than thick explained on menu. All in all a good first time experience, One really tacky thing, when asking for more bread our bus boy took our bread board and just dumped last piece on table"
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2004
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, scenic view
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Review 21 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Food has deteriorated; not

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Food has deteriorated; not nearly as good as it was"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2002
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Review 22 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

As always a wonderful dining

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"As always a wonderful dining experience. How the Sam's Lobster Roll isnt the #1 Sandwich in America is beyond me."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 23 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Good chowder, to go

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Decent New England clam chowder but so so on lobster roll or ciopinno. Definitely had better. And value for your money... Meh. You are paying for the beach front view. Fine.
What was really a huge let down - poor service! Our drinks were empty more than half the time and serving staff passed by more than 5 times ignoring the empty glasses. ONLY when I called on something for refill, did one come by and poured. Same went for bread. Overall attitude of "not my table or job"."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2008
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view
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Review 24 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great place to take visitors

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great place to take visitors to the coast."
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, scenic view
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Review 25 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Sam's Rocks!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We always have a fantastic time at Sam's! The food is incredible, their staff is friendly and the views are beautiful. I wish it were a little closer to home for us - we'd go all the time!"
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 26 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Sam's is a great destination

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Sam's is a great destination restaurant and has it all. The food is good, service friendly, and the coastal location is fantastic. I go there often and enjoy it every time."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 1999
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 27 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Bad Food .... good dessert

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were greeted by a less than hospitable young woman who told us our table was not ready and handed us one of those vibrators. That's when I knew we were in a low scale restaurant. Could not understand our server who spoke so fast we had to ask multiple times to repeat. The table next to us was doing the same thing. The server just laughed and said "everyone says that". Not the brightest.
Four of us were eating and one liked her food (risotto). My swordfish was the thinnest I have ever seen. I actually believe they cut it on half! Have you ever seen 1/4 inch swordfish? Sole was so salty my friend 'washed' it with lemon juice. And the 'famous' sandwich is mostly bun....lots of bun.
Desserts were really good! So, go fodess"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly
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Review 28 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We enjoyed the delicious sea

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We enjoyed the delicious sea food, especially the clam chowder and the lobster roll. It's worth the drive up from San Francisco."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 29 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Sushi appetizer was excellent...as

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Sushi appetizer was excellent...as was the NE clam chouder. Lobster roll was fabulous...so much lobster! Cod was good, but preparation did not have enough flavor."
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2010
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 30 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Both Lunch and Dinner always

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Both Lunch and Dinner always great.........great ocean view........great heated patio seating...........all a round 5 stars......worth the drive from the bayside........"
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 31 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Lobster roll and clam chowder

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Lobster roll and clam chowder by the ocean!"
Dined on 04/10/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 32 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great dining!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Super place with a great view of the Princeton Harbor. Great outdoor dining and most tables inside has super views."
Dined on 04/09/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 33 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our dinners were excellent!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our dinners were excellent! Clam chowder was great as was our varied entrees. However the dessert menu sounded so wonderful too so we decided to indulge but were very disappointed. Small portions that were not very tasty."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 34 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

we visit Sam's regularly, amazing

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"we visit Sam's regularly,
amazing views foggy or sunny. great with our 3 year old as loves to end of day on beach below. food is most always good, just ask to insure lobster rolls are moist!
fish sandwiches and clam chowders are always great as is the key lime pie!
try to call ahead as line could get long, but moves quickly!
great bar.
a special note....outside fire pits can also be used for Smore's!! buy kit in gift shop...share them with the little kids around (if OK with their parents) as this adds to the fun and makes instant friends...'play it forward'!!
"
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 35 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Had the lobster roll on high

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had the lobster roll on high recommendation. Thought it was OK but not great. Lobster was a bit tough and had a bit Iodine-y off taste. Cole slaw was good. In general thought prices were high for what you got."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2011
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Review 36 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Clam chowder was great, not

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Clam chowder was great, not too thick. The sample seafood plate was perfect and well presented. the sedge was good as was the bread pudding. Yum."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
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Review 37 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food and good scenery.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great food and good scenery. Patio was heated, so even though it was a little chilly, we were totally comfortable. Lobster roll was good, but I bet there are even better finds on the menu! Will definitely try something else next time."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 38 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very good experience. Chowder

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very good experience. Chowder (of course) was outstanding. Large portions. The bowl of chowder is 16 oz. Lobster roll was excellent as advertised. Great view."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2005
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining
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Review 39 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We have been to Sam's many

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We have been to Sam's many times. We love their clams, but they are always a little too salty. On a fine day, the views are wonderful."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2007
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, scenic view
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Review 40 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

As always, we enjoyed the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"As always, we enjoyed the meal very much. The lobster roll was terrific with lots of lobster. The clam chowder came in a bowl (we ordered a cup) so the portion was very large and very satisfying. Last yeaq the fresh crab was terrific and very tender and edible."
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 41 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Easter dinner with the whole family

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food is great. Easy place to bring families with all ages. Casual but nice. Perfect for
a Sunday drive from the bay area and stop off for lunch or dinner.
"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2011
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 42 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Poor Service, bad attitude

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Poor Service, bad attitude starting with the hostess, continuing with the servers.Won't ever go back. Been treated better at Dennys."
Dined on 04/01/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, scenic view
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Review 43 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The service was somewhat lacking.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The service was somewhat lacking. The lobster in the lobster roll was somewhat tough which was extremely disappointing as the lobster roll was what we'd heard so much about! But the view was great and the chowder was good. I'm willing to try again."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 44 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We Love Sam's Chowder house.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We Love Sam's Chowder house. Great views of the ocean and the food is always consistent. The service is always excellent."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 45 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service was fantastic. Food

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Service was fantastic. Food was delicious. Beautiful scene. We will definitely be back!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 46 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Had delicious late lunch &

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had delicious late lunch & had an incredible waiter - wish I'd gotten his name....kept pace with our meal -not rushing us. Asked for appetizer from dinner menu for the late lunch & waiter checked with kitchen and it was delicious. have been coming here since it was opened - always love it! Thanks again!"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 47 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I took my family and it was

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I took my family and it was our first time there. We started with fresh oysters, ahi poke, and manhattan clam chowder. All the starters were very good. The oysters were incredibly fresh and sweet. For entrees, we had the lobster roll, seafood paella, and my daughter had the kids fish and chips. The lobster roll was ok. The lobster meat was not as fresh and sweet as we had hoped. My daughter's fish and chips were ok also. The seafood paella was very good; seafood was fresh and the flavors were intense but balanced. For dessert, we had the mango upside down cake and soft serve with olive oil and sea salt. The cake was good but the soft serve was amazing! Even though we were not impressed by the lobster roll, we will be coming back."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 48 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I enjoyed lunch with my Mother

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I enjoyed lunch with my Mother and Daughter. Thank you for a great time."
Dined on 03/27/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for lunch
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Review 49 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Terry & Lu Eggleston

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Large restaurant, nice view. Excellent service; engaging staff. Menu selections were beautifully presented & fairly priced. Would definitely go back. Very nice birthday celebration for two. Liked the background music, too!"
Dined on 03/27/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for Sam's Chowder House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

If Bar were better, I would

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"If Bar were better, I would give it a much higher rating!"
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2008
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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