Machipongo Clam Shack is a beloved seafood destination located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and casual coastal atmosphere, the Clam Shack offers a diverse menu that showcases the best of the Atlantic’s bounty.
Whether you’re a fan of fried clams, succulent oysters, or hearty seafood platters, the menu is crafted to delight every seafood lover.
The menu is designed to highlight simplicity and freshness, with an emphasis on traditional Chesapeake Bay flavors. Each dish pairs well with the relaxed, friendly vibe of the shack, making it a perfect spot for family dinners, casual outings, or a taste of authentic Eastern Shore cuisine.
Starters and Appetizers
To begin your meal, the Machipongo Clam Shack offers a variety of appetizers to whet your appetite. These dishes are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light snack before diving into the main courses.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Clams | Hand-breaded whole belly clams, golden fried to perfection, served with tartar sauce. | $14.95 |
| Steamed Oysters | Freshly shucked oysters steamed with herbs and lemon, served hot. | $12.95 |
| Crab Dip | Creamy blend of Chesapeake crab meat, cheese, and spices, served with toasted baguette slices. | $11.50 |
| Seafood Chowder | Rich and hearty chowder featuring clams, fish, potatoes, and fresh vegetables. | $7.95 |
| Calamari Rings | Crispy fried calamari accompanied by a zesty marinara dipping sauce. | $10.95 |
“The fried clams are an absolute must-try! Fresh, crispy, and perfectly seasoned.” – Local Food Reviewer
Main Courses
The main courses at Machipongo Clam Shack focus on fresh seafood prepared with care and traditional recipes. Each entrée offers a hearty portion and is often served with side dishes that complement the flavors of the sea.
Signature Dishes
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Clam Shack Platter | A generous assortment featuring fried clams, fried shrimp, hush puppies, and coleslaw. | $24.95 |
| Crab Cake Sandwich | Handcrafted crab cake served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and Old Bay mayo. | $15.95 |
| Steamed Blue Crabs | Locally sourced blue crabs steamed with Old Bay seasoning, served with drawn butter. | Market Price |
| Grilled Mahi-Mahi | Fresh mahi-mahi fillet grilled and topped with a tangy mango salsa, served with rice and vegetables. | $19.95 |
| Fish and Chips | Beer-battered cod fried until crispy, served with fries and tartar sauce. | $16.50 |
Classic Sandwiches & Burgers
For those craving handheld delights, the Clam Shack offers sandwiches and burgers that combine fresh seafood with classic flavors. Each sandwich comes with a side of your choice.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Oyster Po’ Boy | Crispy fried oysters dressed with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce on a soft hoagie roll. | $14.95 |
| Shrimp Po’ Boy | Golden fried shrimp served with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo on a hoagie roll. | $14.50 |
| Clam Shack Burger | Juicy beef patty topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and house sauce. | $13.95 |
| Veggie Burger | House-made black bean patty with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and chipotle mayo. | $12.50 |
Fresh Oysters and Raw Bar
Machipongo Clam Shack takes pride in its raw bar, offering an array of oysters freshly shucked daily. These oysters highlight the abundance of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Raw Oysters (Half Dozen) | Freshly shucked oysters served on ice with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce. | $16.95 |
| Raw Oysters (Dozen) | Fresh oysters served with traditional accompaniments for a full dozen. | $31.95 |
| Oyster Shooter | Single raw oyster served in a shot glass with cocktail sauce and a splash of vodka. | $4.50 |
“The raw oysters at Machipongo are incredibly fresh — you can taste the ocean in every bite.” – Oyster Enthusiast Magazine
Soups and Salads
The menu also features a selection of soups and salads for those seeking lighter fare or a refreshing accompaniment to their meal. Each is prepared with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Clam Chowder | Creamy New England-style chowder loaded with clams, potatoes, and herbs. | $7.95 |
| Seafood Gumbo | Spicy, hearty gumbo with shrimp, crab, and smoked sausage. | $8.50 |
| Garden Salad | Mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, and your choice of dressing. | $6.95 |
| Caesar Salad | Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing with parmesan and croutons. | $7.50 |
| Grilled Shrimp Salad | Fresh greens topped with grilled shrimp, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette. | $14.95 |
Kids Menu
The Clam Shack offers a special menu designed with younger guests in mind. These dishes are smaller in portion, simple, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tenders | Crispy fried chicken strips served with fries and ketchup. | $7.50 |
| Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Classic grilled cheddar sandwich with a side of fries. | $6.95 |
| Fried Shrimp | Three pieces of golden fried shrimp served with fries. | $8.50 |
| Macaroni & Cheese | Creamy macaroni baked with melted cheddar cheese. | $6.95 |
Sides and Extras
Complement your meal with a variety of sides crafted to enhance your dining experience. From crispy fries to fresh vegetables, these sides round out the perfect seafood feast.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| French Fries | Golden, crispy fries seasoned lightly with salt. | $3.50 |
| Hush Puppies | Sweet cornmeal fritters fried until golden brown. | $4.00 |
| Coleslaw | Fresh shredded cabbage and carrots in a tangy dressing. | $3.25 |
| Steamed Vegetables | A medley of seasonal vegetables lightly steamed. | $4.50 |
| Rice Pilaf | Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and seasonings. | $3.75 |
Beverages
Machipongo Clam Shack offers a range of beverages to complement your meal. Whether you prefer a cold soda or a local craft beer, there’s something to refresh every palate.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Soda (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite) | Classic carbonated soft drinks served chilled. | $2.50 |
| Lemonade | Freshly squeezed, sweet and tart lemonade. | $2.75 |
| Iced Tea | Brewed black tea served over ice, sweetened or unsweetened. | $2.50 |
| Local Craft Beer | A selection of Virginia’s finest craft beers on tap or bottled. | $5.50 – $7.00 |
| House White Wine | Light and crisp white wine, perfect with seafood. | $6.00 (glass) |
| House Red Wine | Medium-bodied red wine with balanced tannins. | $6.00 (glass) |
Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note with Machipongo Clam Shack’s dessert offerings. Each is homemade and crafted to provide a delightful finish to your seafood feast.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Key Lime Pie | Tangy and creamy pie with a graham cracker crust and whipped cream topping. | $6.50 |
| Chocolate Brownie | Rich chocolate brownie served warm with vanilla ice cream. | $6.95 |
| Apple Crisp | Baked apples topped with a crunchy oat and cinnamon topping. | $6.75 |
About Machipongo Clam Shack
Located in the heart of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Machipongo Clam Shack is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of local seafood culture. The Clam Shack sources many of its ingredients from nearby waters and farms, ensuring freshness and sustainability.
The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with a rustic décor that transports guests to a traditional coastal clam shack. Whether dining inside or enjoying a sunny day on the outdoor deck, customers experience genuine hospitality and the tastes of the shore.
“Machipongo Clam Shack perfectly captures the essence of Eastern Shore dining — fresh, flavorful, and welcoming.” – Virginia Travel Guide
Tips for Ordering
Plan ahead: The Shack can get busy, especially during peak season. Arrive early or call ahead for takeout orders.
Try the specials: Seasonal specials often feature unique seafood dishes made from the freshest catch of the day.
Pair wisely: The local craft beers and wines are carefully selected to complement the seafood menu. Staff are happy to provide pairing recommendations.
Share plates: Many of the platters and appetizers are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors.
Conclusion
Machipongo Clam Shack’s menu is a testament to the rich seafood heritage of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. From fried clams to raw oysters, and from hearty platters to refreshing salads, the menu offers something for every palate.
The focus on fresh, local ingredients and simple, traditional preparations ensures a memorable meal every visit.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, dining at Machipongo Clam Shack is an experience that combines great food with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Next time you’re craving authentic coastal cuisine, this menu will guide you to some of the best dishes the region has to offer.
