Billy’s Chowder House in Wells, Maine, is a beloved seafood restaurant known for its authentic Maine coastal flavors and fresh ingredients. The menu reflects the rich culinary heritage of New England, featuring classic dishes such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, fried seafood platters, and more.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring Billy’s menu offers a delicious journey through the best of Maine’s seafood offerings. an in-depth look at the menu, detailing appetizers, soups, entrées, desserts, and beverages, along with some signature items you cannot miss.
Appetizers
Starting your meal at Billy’s Chowder House with a flavorful appetizer is a great way to prepare for the main course. Their appetizers are crafted to highlight fresh seafood and local ingredients.
| Appetizer | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Clams | Whole belly clams, lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection. Served with tartar sauce and lemon wedges. | $13.95 |
| Crab Cakes | Two pan-seared crab cakes made with fresh Maine crabmeat, served with a spicy remoulade. | $14.95 |
| Calamari | Crispy fried calamari rings served with marinara sauce and a hint of lemon. | $12.95 |
| Stuffed Mushrooms | Fresh mushrooms stuffed with lobster and cheese, baked until golden. | $15.50 |
Note: Appetizers are perfect for sharing and are often recommended to pair with a cold local beer or a crisp white wine.
Soups & Chowders
Billy’s Chowder House is renowned for its soups, especially the clam chowder. Made fresh daily with locally sourced clams, potatoes, and cream, it exemplifies the classic New England style.
| Soup/Chowder | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| New England Clam Chowder | Creamy chowder with clams, potatoes, onions, and herbs. Served with oyster crackers. | Cup $5.50 / Bowl $7.95 |
| Manhattan Clam Chowder | A tomato-based chowder with clams, vegetables, and spices. | Cup $5.50 / Bowl $7.95 |
| Lobster Bisque | Rich and creamy lobster soup, made with fresh lobster meat and a touch of sherry. | Cup $7.50 / Bowl $10.95 |
| Seafood Chowder | A hearty blend of clams, fish, shrimp, and potatoes in a creamy base. | Bowl $11.95 |
“The clam chowder here is hands down the best I’ve tasted in Maine. The creamy texture and fresh clams make every spoonful memorable.” — Local Food Critic
Salads & Sandwiches
For guests looking for lighter fare or a quick bite, Billy’s offers a variety of salads and sandwiches. These dishes incorporate fresh greens, crisp vegetables, and generous portions of seafood.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Lobster Roll | Classic Maine lobster meat lightly dressed in mayo on a buttered, toasted bun. Served with fries. | $22.95 |
| Fish Sandwich | Fresh fried haddock served on a roll with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. Served with fries. | $14.95 |
| Seafood Salad | A mix of shrimp, scallops, and lobster on a bed of fresh greens with a light vinaigrette. | $18.95 |
| Caesar Salad | Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese. Add grilled shrimp for $5. | $9.95 |
Tip: The lobster roll is a signature dish and a must-try for any visitor. It showcases the freshness and quality of Maine lobster in a simple yet delicious way.
Entrées
The entrée options at Billy’s Chowder House are designed to satisfy seafood lovers and those craving hearty, flavorful meals. From fried platters to grilled specialties, the menu covers a wide range of tastes.
| Entrée | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Seafood Platter | A generous combination of fried clams, shrimp, scallops, and haddock. Served with coleslaw and fries. | $26.95 |
| Grilled Salmon | Fresh Atlantic salmon grilled to perfection, served with seasonal vegetables and rice pilaf. | $24.95 |
| Baked Stuffed Lobster | Whole lobster stuffed with a seafood stuffing, baked with butter and herbs. Served with mashed potatoes. | $34.95 |
| Pan Seared Scallops | Sea scallops seared and served over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach. | $28.95 |
| Clam Bake (Seasonal) | A traditional New England clam bake featuring clams, lobster, corn, potatoes, and sausage steamed in a pot. | $38.95 |
“The clam bake was an unforgettable experience — fresh, flavorful, and authentically Maine. Perfect for groups and celebrations.” — Frequent Customer
Kids Menu
Billy’s Chowder House also caters to younger guests with a thoughtfully prepared kids menu. The dishes are smaller portions with familiar flavors to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
| Kids Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fish & Chips | Lightly fried haddock pieces with fries and ketchup. | $8.95 |
| Chicken Tenders | Crispy chicken strips served with fries and honey mustard sauce. | $7.95 |
| Grilled Cheese | Classic grilled cheese sandwich with white bread and American cheese. Served with fries. | $6.95 |
| Mac & Cheese | Creamy macaroni and cheese made with cheddar. | $6.95 |
Desserts
Finish your meal with one of Billy’s delightful desserts. The restaurant offers classic choices that pair wonderfully with coffee or dessert cocktails.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Blueberry Pie | Traditional Maine blueberry pie made with wild blueberries and a flaky crust. Served warm with vanilla ice cream. | $6.95 |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Rich chocolate cake with a molten center. Served with whipped cream. | $7.50 |
| Key Lime Pie | Tangy and sweet key lime pie with a graham cracker crust. | $6.95 |
| Ice Cream Sundae | Vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate sauce, nuts, and a cherry. | $5.95 |
Beverages
Billy’s Chowder House offers a wide variety of beverages to complement any dish. From fresh brewed coffee and soft drinks to local beers and fine wines, there is something for every taste.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Local Craft Beer | Selection of Maine craft beers on tap and bottled. | $6.00 – $8.00 |
| House Wine | Red or white, served by the glass or bottle. | Glass $7.00 / Bottle $28.00 |
| Soft Drinks | Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Lemonade, Iced Tea. | $2.50 |
| Fresh Brewed Coffee | Regular or decaf, freshly brewed. | $2.95 |
| Specialty Cocktails | Seasonal cocktail specials featuring local spirits and fresh ingredients. | $9.00 – $12.00 |
Signature Dishes to Try
New England Clam Chowder: The star of the menu, this chowder is creamy, thick, and packed with clams and potatoes. It embodies the essence of Maine’s coastal cuisine.
Lobster Roll: Served on a buttered toasted bun, the lobster roll showcases fresh lobster meat dressed lightly with mayo and a hint of lemon. A true taste of Maine.
Fried Seafood Platter: For those who want to sample a variety of seafood, this platter combines fried clams, shrimp, scallops, and haddock, served with traditional sides.
Clam Bake: Available seasonally, the clam bake is a traditional New England feast that includes lobster, clams, corn, and potatoes steamed together. Perfect for sharing.
Chef’s Recommendation: “Try the Lobster Bisque paired with the Fried Clams to start your meal, followed by the Grilled Salmon entrée. It’s a perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors.”
About Billy’s Chowder House
Billy’s Chowder House is a family-owned restaurant located in Wells, Maine. It has earned a reputation for serving fresh, high-quality seafood in a welcoming and casual atmosphere.
The restaurant embraces Maine’s culinary traditions while offering a menu that caters to both tourists and locals.
The commitment to fresh ingredients, generous portions, and friendly service makes Billy’s a popular destination throughout the year. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or enjoying a leisurely dinner, the menu offers a variety of options that satisfy all cravings.
Menu Tips & Dining Experience
Reservations: Especially during the busy summer months, it is recommended to make reservations in advance to avoid long wait times.
Seasonality: Some items like the Clam Bake and certain fresh seafood selections are seasonal, so it’s good to check availability when planning your visit.
Portion Sizes: Portions at Billy’s are generous. Sharing appetizers or entrees is common, especially if you want to sample multiple dishes.
Local Flair: The restaurant often features local craft beers and wines from Maine vineyards, enhancing the authentic dining experience.
Conclusion
Billy’s Chowder House in Wells, Maine, offers a comprehensive menu that highlights the best of New England seafood. From soups and appetizers to hearty entrées and delightful desserts, the restaurant provides something for every palate.
The menu’s emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Maine dining experience. Whether indulging in the famous clam chowder or savoring a lobster roll, every bite at Billy’s reflects the rich coastal heritage that defines Maine.
Plan your visit, explore the menu, and enjoy a memorable meal at Billy’s Chowder House—where great seafood and warm hospitality come together.
