Seafood restaurants

Essex Seafood House (two)

4.6 1,590 reviews 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM 1360 West, 1360 FL-40, Pierson, FL 32180, United States

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Essex Seafood House (two) stands out as a hidden gem in Pierson, Florida, particularly for seafood lovers. Nestled along Route 40, this charming eatery has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its fresh and delicious offerings. Customers rave about the remarkable fried clam bellies, heralded as the best in the area, made with fresh Ipswich clams flown in multiple times a week. The quick service and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere that complements the hearty, generous portions. Notable dishes include the grilled grouper, which has surprised many first-time visitors with its exceptional quality, and the seafood staples that make for an incredible dining experience. Guests appreciate the affordable prices, with meals ranging from $10 to $20, making it a budget-friendly choice. However, patrons should be mindful that Essex Seafood House operates on a cash-only basis. The unique setting—with views of pastures outside the windows—adds to its charm, making it a delightful stop for a scenic ride. Passionate reviews tout the restaurant as the go-to for Florida seafood, where flavors shine and freshness is paramount. For an authentic seafood adventure infused with local hospitality, Essex Seafood House (two) is certainly worth a visit.

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Amenities & More

Service options

Outdoor seating
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights

Fast service
Great coffee
Serves local specialty

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy
Quiet

Crowd

Groups
Tourists

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Essex Seafood House (two) before visiting.

Reviews for Essex Seafood House (two)

4.6

1,590 reviews

100%

17%

Review highlights

Based on 1,590 reviews

Essex Seafood House (two) is widely appreciated for its exceptionally fresh seafood, particularly its clam dishes, which many customers regard as some of the best they have encountered. The restaurant's appeal is enhanced by generous portions and affordable pricing, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike. Service is frequently described as friendly and efficient, despite the eatery’s small, busy setting. Guests also value the casual, down-to-earth atmosphere, including its unique inland location with scenic surroundings. While primarily praised for items like fried clam bellies and grouper, the overall quality and consistency of the seafood selection contribute to its strong reputation among seafood enthusiasts in the region.

Mike Czosnek

Apr 29, 2025

I’m from the coast of Maine, Essex Seafood House was a great find. Fish is very fresh! I had the clams, wonderful! Nice folks for service too. Prices were about half as much for the Clams that I would have in Maine! You won’t be disappointed.

Andy Bodnar

Apr 08, 2025

The best fresh fried clam bellies! A little dive seafood place off route 40 that gets fresh Ipswich clams flown in 3 times a week! The bellies are shucked fresh, deep fried, and served immediately nice and hot! The cole slaw and fries are really good too, but the star of the show is the fresh fried clam bellies. Very friendly service too!

Dennis Ochs

Mar 14, 2025

They always have great food and as always more than what you can eat services usually really quick. It's a small place so they get very busy. I had grouper the other day. Didn't even know you could get it around here and it was fantastic going back again. Been there a few times but it is a cash only restaurant. So make sure you have cash. Meals run between 10 and 20. I think mine was 12 and that included grouper in onion rings

Rod Ellison

Feb 14, 2025

It's odd to look out the windows of a seafood restaurant and see cows but to be honest it's part of the charm. The food though.. really incredible with large portions at a great price. Really some of the best we've had in Florida! And as a biker it's a really nice short scenic ride to this inland destination. Well worth a visit for some great seafood. Try the fried haddock chunks or shrimp and onion rings and cole slaw. All Fantastic!

Bill Williams

Jan 26, 2025

Truly amazing clams. The best we’ve ever had, and we have tried them alot of places.

Aesher Audette

Jan 23, 2025

This may be the best, or one of the bedr seafood spots in mid florida. Im pleasantly suprised by the prices, and quality of food. This small, family style restaurant doesnt seat many, but when you're here, you're home.

Katie Kegg

Jan 19, 2025

I’ve been looking for real steamer clams for so long and these were phenomenal

Martin Heenan Jr

Jan 19, 2025

Easily one of the best meals I've had in a very long time! The clam strips were lightly breaded and fried perfectly with a little salt and pepper in the batter. And you have to have a slice of their homemade Boston cream pie! BRING CASH!!