Ted's Fried Clams didn't live up to its local lore

The clams strips and scallop lacked flavor, The fries and cole slaw were fine. (Rochester Voice photo)

SHAPLEIGH, Maine - Living in the Greater Rochester since 1988, it's hard to believe we'd never made it over to Ted's Fried Clams in Shapleigh, but it's true.

That ended on Friday when we drove down Baker's Grant Road in Lebanon, which takes you all the way to Route 9 and a stone's throw from the highly regarded seafood restaurant.

Since there is no table service and you order from a large billboard that spans the length of the food-service area, we tried to look at the menu online first but found the link inoperative.

Keep in mind that when it gets busy you feel the need to order promptly as there will likely be a couple of parties behind you also wanting to order.

Being gluten intolerant and wanting to order expediently I splurged and settled on the grilled scallops that came with french fries and cole slaw for $24. Martha got the clam strip basket that also came with french fries and cole slaw for $12.

The wait wasn't long till they called our number and I retrieved our food in three takeout containers along with paper plates. Back at the table I immediately felt disappointed at the number of scallops for the price and underwhelmed by their taste upon sampling.

The clam strips had too much breading and, as with the scallops, very little flavor.

We'll likely try them again sometime next summer.

Food ★★★
Atmosphere ★★★